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://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-announces-2026-congressional-app-challenge,Mrvan Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan announced the details of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for middle and high school students in Indiana’s First Congressional District.

Each year, the Internet Education Foundation and Members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor the Congressional App Challenge to foster an appreciation for computer science and STEM education. The Congressional App Challenge is an annual nationwide academic competition for middle school (6th – 8th grades) and high school (9th – 12th grades) students to create and exhibit their software application, or ""app,"" for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice.

Students in Indiana’s First Congressional District are invited to compete against their peers in a challenge to create the best software application to represent our region at the House of Code reception in Washington, D.C. in the Spring of 2026. This competition is designed to promote innovation and engagement in STEM fields.

Congressman Mrvan stated, “I am thrilled to announce the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open to middle and high school students who are passionate about computer science and technology. This annual competition is a fantastic hands-on opportunity for students to code their own app and learn more about the STEM field. I look forward to seeing many innovative submissions from students throughout our region.”

All students must register for the competition and submit their work through the Congressional App Challenge website by 12:00 p.m. ET on Monday, October 26, 2026.

For additional information, please visit the official Congressional App Challenge website at https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/ or email StudentSupport@CongressionalAppChallenge.us.

For additional questions, please contact Drew Ficociello in the Merrillville District Office at 219-795-1844 or Drew.Ficociello@mail.house.gov.

###",1,2026-09-27T10:23:37Z,2026-09-27T10:25:08Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-houchin-bills-combat-scams-expand-broadband-advance-house-floor,"ICYMI: Rep Houchin Bills to Combat Scams, Expand Broadband Advance to House Floor",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Last week, two bills by Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) advanced out of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and were reported to the full House of Representatives.

H.R. 5967, the Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act, was reported to the full House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 36 yeas to 0 nays.

This bipartisan legislation introduced alongside Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08) targets fraud, an issue costing Americans about $15.9 billion last year. By placing responsibility of preventing scams with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DoJ), the Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act proactively targets criminals engaging in fraud.

“Fraud is a massive and growing threat that costs Americans billions of dollars every year,” said Rep. Houchin. “The federal government has agencies working on different pieces of this problem, but criminals do not operate in silos. We need the federal government to share information, coordinate its efforts, and work directly with the companies on the front lines of identifying scams. The Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act gives this effort an owner and creates a coordinated strategy to better protect Americans.”

H.R. 4950, the Data BRIDGE Act, was reported to the full House by a roll call vote of 35 yeas to 0 nays.

The Data BRIDE Act, a bipartisan bill introduced alongside Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) ensures that broadband funding decisions are made with cropland location information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Currently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) National Broadband Map focuses on serviceable locations like homes and businesses, but often misses the acreage surrounding where modern farming takes place.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=327,Messmer Introduces Bill to Advance Ready Reserve Force Modernization,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today introduced the Ready Reserve Force Modernization Accountability Act. The bill directs the Navy and Maritime Administration to prioritize finalizing design requirements for new sealift vessels and brief Congress on plans to build and fund them.

The Ready Reserve Force (RRF) is a fleet of approximately around 50 vessels that can carry troops, equipment, fuel, and supplies across oceans during a crisis. It provides nearly half of the federal government’s surge sealift capacity. Its ships are more than 45 years old on average.

“Our adversaries should think twice before challenging the United States because they know we can bring a logistical force to a fight that is unmatched anywhere in the world,” said Rep. Mark Messmer. “The Ready Reserve Force is a major part of that advantage. We need to replace its aging ships so our military can continue to move troops, equipment, and supplies wherever they are needed. This bill is a step toward maintaining that edge.”

“The Ready Reserve Force (RRF) is only as ready as its ships, and too many of them were built decades ago,” said Senator Dave McCormick. “We need to treat this moment with the urgency it deserves by finalizing the design for new RRF vessels and laying out how they will be built and paid for. Shipyards can't hire, train, and invest based on intentions alone. I applaud Representatives Messmer and Courtney for recognizing the stakes and introducing this bipartisan companion to S. 4630.”

“There’s no question that maintaining our nation’s Ready Reserve Force is national security priority, and the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee remains committed to enabling the Navy, TRANSCOM, and MARAD to recapitalize the fleet. That’s why, in the FY23 NDAA, we mandated the use of the successful vessel construction manager model for this program. I look forward to the continued work between Congress and the Navy to ensure successful deliveries of new RFF vessels,” said Rep. Joe Courtney.

BACKGROUND:

The Ready Reserve Force Modernization Accountability Act directs the Secretary of the Navy and the Maritime Administrator to prioritize finalizing design requirements for new RRF vessels.

The bill also requires the Navy, in coordination with the Maritime Administration, to brief Congress within 180 days. The briefing must cover the status of the new vessel design, plans for a vessel construction manager program, funding for the authorized 10-ship construction program, and how purchases of new and used vessels will work together during the transition.

The legislation aims to support military readiness and give domestic shipbuilders greater clarity about the path to replacing the fleet.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting America’s warfighters and strengthening our national security, click here.

###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-questions-witnesses-ai-safeguards-military-and-intelligence-systems,Carson Questions Witnesses on AI Safeguards in Military and Intelligence Systems,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,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) questioned witnesses at a first-of-its-kind hearing calling for a U.S.-China agreement to responsibly pace the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This hearing was held by Democrats on the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party.

The hearing occurred after Speaker Mike Johnson canceled the previously scheduled legislative session, including votes and committee hearings, without taking action on AI. Congressman Carson previously joined 106 Democrats in calling on the speaker to hold a vote to address AI cybersecurity, surveillance, and rogue AI agent concerns.

“This administration is moving quickly to put advanced AI into our military and intelligence systems,” said Congressman Carson in today’s hearing. “Some decisions are simply too important to hand over to a machine…As AI moves deeper into our national security systems, where should we draw a hard line and say a human has to make the decision?”

Congressman Carson also raised the alarm on the potential need for new regulatory frameworks for AI in cyberattacks and biological weapons. “We already have laws and international agreements dealing with cyberattacks and biological weapons,” Congressman Carson said. “But we know that AI can make those threats easier to carry out and potentially much more dangerous.”

Witnesses included:

· Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto and Nobel Laureate

· Lt. Gen. John (Jack) N.T. Shanahan (USAF, Ret.), Adjunct Senior Fellow, Center for a New American Security

· Matt Sheehan, Senior Fellow, Asia Program and Co-Director, China AI Initiative, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

· Miriam Vogel, President and CEO, EqualAI

· Seán Ó hÉigeartaigh, Professor and Director of the AI: Futures and Responsibilities Programme, University of Cambridge

The full hearing can be found here.

###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-introduces-bill-rename-muncie-post-office-honor-corporal-blake-reynolds,Spartz Introduces Bill to Rename Muncie Post Office in Honor of Corporal Blake Reynolds,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) introduced legislation to rename a United States Post Office in Muncie, Indiana, in honor of fallen Delaware County Sheriff’s Corporal Blake Reynolds. The legislation is cosponsored by the entire Indiana House delegation.

“Blake lived as a hero through selfless service, offering his life day by day to the people he was called to protect,” said Rep. Spartz. “His faith, compassion, and commitment to serving others left a lasting impact on our community. I am grateful to my Indiana colleagues for joining me in honoring his life and ensuring his legacy of service will not be forgotten.”

Corporal Blake Reynolds was a lifelong Hoosier whose life was rooted in faith, family, and service. A 2013 graduate of Delta High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Ball State University and served with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office for three years, most recently as a corporal.

Blake was known by those closest to him for his strong faith, joyful spirit, sense of humor, and deep love for his family, including his wife, Allison, his parents, Bruce and Melissa, and his brother, Dustin. Those qualities shaped the way he served his community—with compassion, courage, and a genuine heart for people.

On November 12, 2025, Corporal Reynolds was killed in the line of duty while serving the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/enes-kanter-freedom-nancy-hogshead-applaud-rep-stutzmans-letter-demanding,"ENES KANTER FREEDOM, NANCY HOGSHEAD APPLAUD REP. STUTZMAN’S LETTER DEMANDING ANSWERS FROM THE WNBA",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) sent a letter to Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) commissioner Cathy Engelbert asking her to address the league’s failure to define what a “woman” is according to its collective bargaining agreement, the lack of a uniform policy for addressing players and coaches who instigate verbal confrontations with fans, and the WNBA’s repeated lack of consequences for intentional, dangerous physical contact on the court.

Former National Basketball Association player and WNBA prospect Enes Kanter Freedom said of the letter, “It’s time for the WNBA to explain themselves, and it’s time for the WNBA to ensure safety and fairness for all players and fans.” Three-time Olympic champion Nancy Hogshead, J.D., OLY said, “It’s time for the WNBA to protect what generations of women fought to build: the female category.”

Fox News OutKick first covered the letter in an exclusive article by Amber Harding.

Image

Congressman Stutzman is joined by Congresswoman Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09), Congressman John W. Rose (TN-06), and Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03) on the letter.

""The WNBA needs to stop denying common sense and admit that biological males have no place in their league,” said Rep. Stutzman. “Their delay in addressing this crucial matter has already caused disruptions to games and created a mockery of the organization whose eligibility standards should be defined by looking no further than the league name. Secondly, the WNBA must answer for its failure to administer just consequences for players' continued intentional, dangerous physical contact on the court.”

“Ever since I declared for the WNBA draft, the league has been completely silent and unable to explain their own rules,"" said Enes Kanter Freedom. ""The reason why the league has been silent is simple: the WNBA cannot define a woman and their current rules do not prevent me from playing in the league. It’s time for the WNBA to explain themselves, and it’s time for the WNBA to ensure safety and fairness for all players and fans. Thank you Congressman Stutzman and your colleagues for demanding answers to these critical questions.”

“I’ve spent decades fighting for safe and equal opportunities for women in sports, both as an athlete and as a civil rights attorney,"" said Nancy Hogshead, J.D., OLY. ""As a three-time Olympic gold medalist, I underwent sex verification myself—it was a simple cheek swab—and I know firsthand why clear eligibility standards matter. I only wish we’d had similarly effective safeguards to catch the systematic doping of East German women swimmers in my era. That’s why I support Rep. Stutzman’s letter and launched my Change.org petition calling on the WNBA to define “woman” as female. Without clear standards, male intrusion is inevitable—males have competed in every level of female sport, from elite international competitions, to schools, professional leagues, and masters leagues. It’s time for the WNBA to protect what generations of women fought to build: the female category.”

“The WNBA must answer for its failure to keep players safe,” said Rep. Houchin (IN-09). “Professional sports organizations have a responsibility to provide athletes with a safe and professional environment where they can perform at the highest level.”",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-demands-congress-stay-session-confront-ai-crisis,Carson Demands Congress Stay in Session to Confront AI Crisis,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – 107 House Democrats are demanding that Congress stay in session and vote on legislation creating AI safeguards.

“Republican leadership canceled votes Thursday instead of taking action on AI,” said Congressman André Carson (IN-07). “There is ample evidence of cybersecurity concerns, surveillance, and the risk of rogue AI agents. Instead of addressing these concerns, Speaker Johnson is giving a free pass to tech companies. The pace of AI development means these are urgent concerns. AI needs to be regulated – and we need to act now.”

Download the letter to Speaker Mike Johnson here. The full text of the letter can be found below.

Dear Speaker Johnson:

We write to urge you to keep the House of Representatives in session to enable Congress to take urgent action to address the catastrophic risks posed by advanced artificial intelligence. Those risks take any of several forms, separately and in combination—of agentic misalignment, mass cybersecurity breaches, and development of biological or chemical weapons.

Reasonable minds may disagree about precisely how Congress should regulate this rapidly evolving technology.

We cannot disagree about the imperative for Congress to act.

Instead of action, you have announced vacation. After a month-long August recess, the House leadership changed the schedule to announce two more weeks of vacation–immediately prior to yet another month of recess in October.

Ample evidence—in the form of a series of public disclosures from the companies and researchers developing the world's most capable AI systems—underscores the urgency of the moment:

In July, OpenAI models undergoing cybersecurity evaluations bred swarms of agents that circumvented controls designed to isolate them from the internet, conspired to exploit vulnerabilities, hacked third-party systems, and altered evidence of their activity, an incident that OpenAI has called a ""warning shot,"" about the risks of highly capable rogue AI agents.

Days later, more than 1,300 top employees of frontier AI companies called on the U.S. government to support an international effort to develop tools that can “deliberately pace the frontier of automated AI development.”

More recently, Anthropic disrupted cases in which researchers used Claude for biological research that could have aided the development of biological weapons, and called biological misuse “one of the most serious risks of frontier AI models.”

Anthropic also documented China-linked actors using Claude for surveillance and transnational repression, and Iran-linked actors using it for propaganda, mass surveillance, and targeting recommendations against U.S. naval forces.

Meanwhile, CISA reported Chinese open-weight models accelerating their capabilities through “industrial-scale” distillation of American models—giving rise to AI agents nearly as powerful as the top U.S. frontier models, yet wholly unconstrained by American authorities or by U.S. safeguards.

These disclosures must not constitute yet another in a long series of “warning shots,” but rather, a starting gun.

Congress must act.

A series of proposals have emerged from our colleagues that deserve consideration, public debate, thoughtful amendment, and action. They include bills mandating transparency and evaluation of frontier models, “kill switch” requirements, and a waiver of antitrust laws to enable critical industry-wide collaboration on safety and security. Whether with these proposals or any other variants, AI experts and leading companies agree that the United States can lead the world in artificial intelligence while establishing reasonable safeguards that protect Americans and our national security. We can—and must—do both.

While AI safety experts and Americans increasingly urge action to confront this conflagration of risk, Congress fiddles. When we did return to work after the August recess, we consumed floor time with debates and votes on performative resolutions opposing socialism. After next week, the House resumes its vacation—for another six weeks.

You can forgive every American who believes that Congress remains unserious about confronting our nation’s most pressing challenges.

The House should remain in session until Congress advances meaningful, bipartisan AI safeguards. To our children who will have read a post-apocalyptic history, “Why Congress Slept” —likely written by agentic AI—our inaction will be inexplicable and unforgivable.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-convenes-second-agriculture-advisory-council-meeting,Mrvan Convenes Second Agriculture Advisory Council Meeting,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Valparaiso, IN – Last week, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan convened the second meeting of his Agriculture Advisory Council for Indiana’s First Congressional District.

The Agriculture Advisory Council convenes local leaders to discuss the challenges facing farmers’ operations, businesses, and livelihoods in Northwest Indiana. The goal of the advisory council is to meet twice a year to discuss current issues, help guide the Congressman’s legislative priorities, and ensure the voices of Indiana farmers are heard in Washington.

Congressman Mrvan spoke on the House floor yesterday to share what he heard. He stated that “our farmers are getting crushed,” that “they need tariff relief, lower fuel costs, expanded markets, and action from Congress,” and that “we must give our farmers the stability they need to keep feeding America.”

Congressman Mrvan’s full remarks on the House floor are available here, and the proceedings from the Agriculture Advisory Council meeting can be viewed here.

The Agriculture Advisory Council is composed of agricultural stakeholders from across Indiana’s First Congressional District – including local farmers and leaders from the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, Indiana Corn Growers Association, Indiana Farm Bureau, Indiana Pork, Indiana Soybean Alliance, Lake County Farm Bureau, Lake County Purdue Extension, the Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District, LaPorte County Farm Bureau, LaPorte County Purdue Extension, the LaPorte County Soil and Water Conservation District, Porter County Farm Bureau, Porter County Purdue Extension, and the Porter County Soil and Water Conservation District.

###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-bill-name-american-mastodon-and-t-rex-national-symbols-passes-house,Houchin Bill to Name American Mastodon and T. Rex National Symbols Passes House,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 16, 2026

WASHINGTON—Today, H.R. 9191, the National Fossil Act, led by Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) passed the House of Representatives. The bill designates the American mastodon (Mammut americanum) as the national fossil mammal and the Tyrannosaurus rex as the national fossil dinosaur of the United States.

If enacted, the American mastodon and Tyrannosaurus rex would join the bald eagle, bison, rose, and oak tree as official national symbols of the United States.

“The mastodon has been Indiana's state fossil since 2022, and today the House voted to give it a place among our national symbols,"" said Rep. Houchin. ""As our country marks its 250th year, this is a fitting way to honor a piece of America's story and to get the next generation curious about science, geology, and paleontology. I'm grateful to Rep. Dingell for her partnership and to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for sending this bill forward.""

“America’s story didn’t begin in 1776. It began thousands and even millions of years earlier, with creatures like the mastodon and T. rex roaming the land we now call home,” said Rep. Dingell. “The mastodon is the state fossil of Michigan, and recognizing them as a national symbol alongside the T. rex is a reminder that discovery is part of who we are as a country. From backyard discoveries to museum exhibits that have inspired generations of kids, this bipartisan effort is a way to celebrate America’s prehistoric past and spark curiosity about science and exploration. I am proud to work with Congresswoman Houchin to advance this legislation, and we will keep working together until it is law.”

The American mastodon is the official state fossil of both Indiana and Michigan and has been discovered at sites throughout both states. The Tyrannosaurus rex remains one of the most recognizable dinosaurs in the world and an enduring symbol of American paleontological discovery.

The legislation is supported by Dr. Stanley Totten, curator of the Hanover College Museum of Natural History and professor emeritus of geology at Hanover College, where he taught for 40 years.

""Recognizing these two amazing animals as representative of America’s historic past would be the perfect present for a Nation celebrating its 250th birthday,” said Dr. Totten.

Click HERE for bill text.

Click HERE to view Congresswoman Houchin’s remarks.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-houchin-bill-improve-literacy-education-practices-passes-house,Rep. Houchin Bill to Improve Literacy Education Practices Passes House,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 16, 2026

WASHINGTON—Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7890, the Science of Reading Act of 2026. This bill would prioritize the Science of Reading in the deployment of federal literacy funds. This brings federal policy into alignment with advancements in scientific understanding of how children learn to read, and reserves grant funding to the most impactful and effective methods of instruction.

American schoolchildren at all levels have faced declining literacy skills for nearly a decade. This is a quiet crisis that has significant economic, social, and behavioral impacts for the rest of each student’s life, and for the communities that they live in.

Fortunately, we have a clear path forward. The Science of Reading is a body of research that emphasizes phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension as pillars of instructional principles. Implementation of Science of Reading in states across the country has yielded significant improvements in reading acquisition on all levels, including in Indiana.

“Reading is the foundation of learning, and we cannot accept declining literacy rates as the status quo. The Science of Reading Act will equip classrooms with proven methods to ensure every student can read. Indiana has shown that the Science of Reading works, and I’m proud to see this important legislation pass the House.”

– Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09)

""It’s time to move away from failed theories and restore evidence-based reading instruction that actually works. Our children deserve an education grounded in what the evidence tells us, not the latest educational fad. I applaud Rep. Houchin for her leadership to improve our nation’s child literacy rates.”

- ‎House Education & Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (MI-05)

“As a former teacher and Chair of the K-12 Education Subcommittee, I am grateful the House has come together in a bipartisan way to promote literacy. Perhaps nothing is more vital to a child's academic success than receiving proper literacy instruction from an early age. This legislation will promote best practices, rooted in the science of reading, and help more students develop the reading skills needed to reach their full potential.”

– Rep. Kevin Kiley (CA-03)

""As a teacher for nearly three decades - and the husband of a literacy expert - I know that strong reading skills are the foundation for success in the classroom, in the workplace, and throughout life. The Science of Reading Act gives teachers and students access to proven, evidence-based approaches that help kids become stronger readers. I’m proud that Republicans and Democrats came together to pass this legislation and move us one step closer to improving reading outcomes for students in NY-22 and across the country. Strong schools and strong readers are essential to America’s ability to compete and win globally.”

- ‎Rep. John Mannion (NY-22)

“Indiana continues to invest historic resources to ensure the science of reading is used in every Hoosier classroom. Through this intentional focus, we’ve seen two consecutive years of historic literacy gains, with nearly 90 percent of third graders now reading proficiently. This legislation reinforces our work in Indiana, ensures taxpayer dollars are only used on what we know works, and will help more students across the country to become strong readers.”

– Indiana Governor Mike Braun

“Literacy is the key to unlocking future success for our students, which is why it is absolutely essential that we use instructional strategies proven to help children learn to read. Through Indiana’s focus on the science of reading, we have more Hoosier third graders reading today than even before the pandemic. By doubling down on these evidence-based strategies, we can ensure students across Indiana and the nation have the best possible chance for literacy success, and thus lifelong opportunities.”

– Indiana Secretary of Education Dr. Katie Jenner

""We are already seeing the impact of the Science of Reading research in Indiana, with literacy rates among Hoosier children showing significant improvement since 2022. As one of Indiana’s largest producers of teachers, IU acted swiftly to align our programs with science of reading practices, ensuring our graduates enter classrooms prepared to meet the needs of every student. The Science of Reading Act will further support this work and inspire a new generation of confident readers.”

– Leah Michele Nellis, Assistant Vice President for School Partnerships, Indiana University

“We appreciate Representatives Houchin, Mannion, and Kiley for their leadership on the Science of Reading Act of 2026 and for engaging Save the Children on this important effort. Every child deserves the opportunity to become a confident reader. This legislation is an important step toward closing literacy gaps by promoting evidence-based instruction grounded in decades of research. We welcome this investment in early literacy and support continued efforts to ensure children in rural and underserved communities have access to high-quality reading instruction. By equipping educators with proven tools and training, we can help more children develop the foundational skills they need to thrive.”

- ‎Allison Dembeck, Head of Policy, Save the Children

Click HERE to view bill text.

Click HERE to view Congresswoman Houchin’s remarks.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-state-audit-committee-meeting-spartz-seeks-accountability-iedc-and-leap,"AHEAD OF STATE AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETING, SPARTZ SEEKS ACCOUNTABILITY FOR IEDC AND LEAP",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — In light of the upcoming September 29 meeting of the Indiana Legislative Council Audit and Financial Reporting Subcommittee, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) sent a letter to the Subcommittee raising serious concerns about the adequacy of state audit and legislative oversight of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and the rapidly expanding LEAP Research and Innovation District. Under Indiana law, the Subcommittee has statutory responsibility for independent review and oversight of the State Board of Accounts (SBOA) and the state examination process, including reviewing examination reports, internal accounting controls, and corrective actions.

“Indiana taxpayers deserve to know what happened, why our existing audit and oversight mechanisms failed to identify these serious problems, whether any wrongdoing occurred, and whether anyone should be held accountable,” said Rep. Spartz. “With significant state and federal resources involved, we need proper independent oversight—not just changes in policies going forward.”

State Audit and Legislative Oversight

Rep. Spartz’s letter raises questions about oversight of IEDC and LEAP as IEDC’s funding, authority, land holdings, contractual commitments, and development activities expanded significantly beginning in 2022.

The letter asks how IEDC’s changing risk profile was evaluated under the State’s risk-based examination process; what oversight the Subcommittee conducted of IEDC, IEDF, and LEAP; what actions were taken following prior audit findings; and why significant governance, contracting, conflict, internal-control, and compliance concerns subsequently identified by FTI Consulting were not identified through the existing examination and oversight process.

The October 2, 2025 FTI forensic review identified 45 findings and observations involving governance, internal controls, contracting, conflicts, compliance, and financial oversight. FTI also expressly stated that its work was not an audit or comprehensive investigation and was not designed to identify all errors, irregularities, or potential fraud.

Rep. Spartz is asking the Subcommittee to address these matters at its upcoming meeting and has offered to participate in the discussion.

See letter to the Indiana Legislative Council Audit and Financial Reporting Subcommittee HERE.

Additional GAO Inquiry

Rep. Spartz also sent an additional inquiry to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting a federal review of IEDC and LEAP, including federal funding, financial controls, compliance, and federal agency oversight.

This GAO inquiry is separate from Rep. Spartz’s earlier request concerning the Citizens–Lebanon water project and its use of federally capitalized Drinking Water State Revolving Fund financing.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-introduces-combat-veterans-retirement-restoration-act,Spartz Introduces Combat Veterans Retirement Restoration Act,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) introduced the Combat Veterans Retirement Restoration Act, narrowly targeted legislation to ensure combat-disabled veterans who were forced to medically retire before completing 20 years of military service can receive both their earned military retired pay and VA disability compensation.

“Combat veterans forced to medically retire because of their injuries should not lose retirement benefits simply because they could not reach 20 years of service,” said Rep. Spartz. “This targeted fix honors our commitment to those who sacrificed in defense of our nation.”",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-sends-letter-usps-proposed-permanent-closure-wheeler-post-office,Mrvan Sends Letter to USPS on Proposed Permanent Closure of Wheeler Post Office,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan released a letter he sent to the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding the proposed permanent closure of the Wheeler Post Office.

As USPS conducts a discontinuance feasibility study on the permanent closure of the Wheeler Post Office, the letter urges USPS to find an alternative solution that restores essential mail services for Wheeler residents and requests that USPS schedule another community meeting to give constituents a real opportunity to express their concerns. Previously, on March 26, 2026, the Congressman sent an initial letter on this matter to the USPS.

The text of the letter is below and a pdf is available here.

“I write to submit input for the discontinuance feasibility study on the proposed permanent closure of the Wheeler Post Office. I am deeply concerned that the permanent closure of the Wheeler Post Office would continue to make it exceedingly difficult for my constituents to access convenient and reliable postal services. As a final determination on this is made, I urge USPS to find an alternative solution that restores dependable postal services for Wheeler residents.

“Since the suspension of the Wheeler Post Office in July 2023 due to health and safety concerns at the facility, Wheeler residents have had to travel to the Hobart Post Office to collect their mail. This creates significant barriers for Wheeler residents, who do not receive door-to-door mail delivery service. As a result, instead of having 24-hour access to their Post Office (PO) boxes, residents must find time during business hours to go to Hobart to collect critical mail – including prescription medicine, veterans’ benefits information, and Social Security checks.

“After nearly two years without designated PO boxes, Wheeler residents were given keys to PO boxes at the Hobart Post Office. However, this has not solved postal reliability issues for my constituents, who still only have access to these PO boxes during retail hours. Permanently maintaining PO boxes at the Hobart Main Office would exacerbate these challenges and have an outsized impact on seniors, residents without reliable transportation, and residents without flexible work hours. These concerns were reiterated at the USPS virtual community meeting for the discontinuance feasibility study on August 25, 2026, and should be seriously considered as USPS assesses next steps.

“Moreover, I am deeply disappointed that USPS announced the proposed closure and public input process during ongoing disaster response and recovery efforts in the region. Following severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes that began on August 11, 2026, residents throughout Northwest Indiana – including Porter County – sustained severe home damages and experienced widespread, prolonged power outages. As a result, President Trump approved both an Emergency Declaration and Major Disaster Declaration for Indiana.

“Despite this active crisis, USPS sent letters on August 17 informing Wheeler residents of the proposed post office closure and the August 25 virtual community meeting. During this period, many residents were still without power and internet access, and mail services were disrupted by the severe weather. Scheduling the only community meeting during this disaster, when many constituents were likely unable to receive the information or attend, was extremely insensitive and directly hinders a fair and comprehensive public input process. This is only one example of the Postal Service’s repeated failure to adequately communicate timely and transparent information regarding the status of the Wheeler Post Office to my office, local elected officials, and residents.

“Over the past three years, I have heard from constituents and local elected officials about the disruptive impact of the prolonged Wheeler Post Office suspension. The USPS universal service obligation dictates that all Americans receive reliable, affordable, and consistent mail service regardless of location. To uphold this standard, I urge USPS to find an alternative solution that restores essential mail services for Wheeler residents, and request that USPS schedule another community meeting to give constituents a real opportunity to express their concerns.

“I appreciate your attention to this matter, and I stand ready to work together to ensure Indiana’s First Congressional District receives reliable, efficient, and consistent access to postal services.”

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stutzmans-ai-regulating-futures-act-passes-house-representatives,REP. STUTZMAN’S AI REGULATING FUTURES ACT PASSES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) released the following statement after his Fostering the Use of Technology to Uphold Regulatory Effectiveness in Supervision (FUTURES) Act passed the House of Representatives under suspension. The FUTURES Act will enhance regulatory agencies' ability to conduct thorough supervision and ensure the safety and soundness of the financial system.

""In the age of AI, it is imperative that regulatory technology keep up with monetary technological development,” said Rep. Stutzman. “In the financial sector, this is especially important as Americans’ assets, savings, and investments hang in the balance. I am proud that the House advanced this common-sense legislation that can respond to potential threats as quickly as they arise.”",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-requests-federal-review-leap-water-project-financing-and-environmental,Spartz Requests Federal Review of LEAP Water Project Financing and Environmental Oversight,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) requested that the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General (EPA OIG) conduct an independent review of federal oversight and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) financing for the Citizens–Lebanon Water Supply Program associated with Indiana’s LEAP Research and Innovation District.

The Indiana Finance Authority has approved financing through Indiana’s federally capitalized DWSRF for a major regional water infrastructure program designed to provide up to 25 million gallons of water per day to Lebanon from the White River watershed. Citizens Energy Group sought approximately $560 million in DWSRF financing for the program, with approximately $104.8 million in initial financing closed in December 2024.

“Economic development is important, but it must be done responsibly and transparently,” Rep. Spartz said. “When hundreds of millions of dollars in federally capitalized financing and critical water resources are involved, taxpayers and communities deserve accountability. We need an independent review to make sure federal requirements were properly followed and the long-term impacts on existing communities, agriculture, future economic development, and our water resources were adequately evaluated.”

Federal DWSRF regulations restrict funding for projects needed primarily to serve future population growth and establish environmental-review requirements for projects receiving assistance.

Rep. Spartz is asking GAO and EPA OIG to review whether the Citizens–Lebanon projects meet federal DWSRF eligibility requirements; whether appropriate environmental reviews were conducted; whether the entire 25-MGD program and its combined water-resource impacts were adequately evaluated; and whether EPA Region 5 provided appropriate federal oversight.

“Federal drinking-water programs should protect existing communities and public health—not become a backdoor subsidy for large economic development projects,” Rep. Spartz said. “GAO and EPA OIG should independently review the facts and determine whether federal law and proper processes were followed.”",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-houchin-auchincloss-introduce-bipartisan-16-social-media-act-keep-kids,"Reps. Houchin, Auchincloss Introduce Bipartisan 16 & Up Social Media Act to Keep Kids Under 16 Off Addictive Platforms",2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 11, 2026

WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) and Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04) today introduced the 16 & Up Social Media Act, bipartisan legislation that establishes a national age standard of 16 for social media platforms.

The bill responds to a simple reality: platforms built on infinite scroll, autoplay, push alerts, and personalized feeds are designed to keep users hooked, and children are the least equipped to resist them. The 16 & Up Social Media Act sets a bright-line rule that platforms can follow and parents can count on.

""Every parent knows the feeling of watching a child disappear into a screen,"" said Rep. Houchin. ""These platforms were engineered by the smartest people in the world to hold attention, and they are winning that fight against our kids. Studies show that sixteen is the right line. This bill draws it clearly, applies it to every platform that uses these addictive features, and puts real enforcement behind it. Kids get their childhood back, and parents get a bright line they can rely on.""

""Social media corporations addict children for profit. The exploitation must stop. Our kids deserve their childhoods back."" said Rep. Auchincloss.

""Children's wellbeing is shaped by technologies that were designed for addiction yet face almost no oversight. This is not a parenting problem. It is a structural problem, and it demands a structural response. The goal is to stop addictive design entirely. Until then, gaining access to platforms with manipulative, unsafe design needs age minimums. The 16 & Up Social Media Act delivers exactly that."" said Jonathan Haidt, Social Psychologist, NYU Stern School of Business, and author of The Anxious Generation

The 16 & Up Act:

Sets a national age standard of 16: Prohibits covered social media platforms from allowing users under 16 to create or maintain accounts.

Focuses on design features: Applies strictly to platforms that use engagement-driven design features (like infinite scroll and personalized feeds) to target users, rather than regulating content.

Ensures privacy and accountability: Mandates the deletion of children's data upon account termination and requires platforms to implement a clear, five-day appeals process for any account closures.

Background:

Congresswoman Houchin serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, where she has led the House's work on children's online safety. She authored the SAFE Bots Act, the first bill to protect kids from AI chatbots, co-leads the Kids Online Safety Caucus with Congressman Auchincloss, and strongly supported the KIDS Act package (H.R. 7757), which passed the House with bipartisan support.

Bill text can be found HERE.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-requests-federal-investigation-nwi-power-outages,Mrvan Requests Federal Investigation into NWI Power Outages,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan sent a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) requesting an investigation into the power outages following the derecho that struck Northwest Indiana on August 11, 2026.

The text of the letter is below and a pdf is available here.

“I write to request that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), in coordination with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), conduct a comprehensive federal review of the widespread and prolonged power outages that followed the severe weather event, a derecho, that struck Northwest Indiana on August 11, 2026.

“The derecho brought extraordinary straight-line winds across Northern Indiana, with peak wind gusts reaching approximately 100 to 110 miles per hour across portions of Lake and Porter Counties. The storm caused unprecedented damage and resulted in nearly 375,000 customer outages within Northern Indiana Public Service Company’s (NIPSCO) service territory. Tens of thousands of Northwest Indiana residents remained without electricity for nearly two weeks. This was the largest outage event in NIPSCO’s history and far exceeded the average duration of electricity interruptions associated with major events. The Cities of Gary, Lake Station, and Portage, as well as the Town of Munster, were among the hardest hit communities and the last areas to receive full restoration.

“The consequences of these prolonged outages were significant. Families lost food, homes experienced flooding and subsequent mold growth, businesses lost inventory and revenue, and residents lost access to essential medical equipment and prescription medications. For many constituents, the lack of electricity also meant the loss of reliable access to phones, computers, internet service, and other means of communicating with family members, reporting outages, and applying for emergency assistance.

“Most concerning, vulnerable residents were left without reliable access to medical care and other essential services. For nearly two weeks, too many Northwest Indiana families were literally left in the dark.

“On August 25, 2026, a federal Major Disaster Declaration was approved for Indiana, providing critical assistance as communities begin the long process of recovery. However, federal assistance must address not only the damage caused by this storm, but also what can be learned from the unprecedented duration of the resulting power outages.

“The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor has petitioned the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to investigate NIPSCO’s storm restoration practices, and I strongly support that state-level investigation. At the same time, given the scale of this event, I believe a federal review is warranted.

“I respectfully request a joint FERC-NERC investigation to assess what contributed to the prolonged outages and determine whether NIPSCO’s preparation, system performance, and restoration efforts were consistent with applicable reliability requirements and best practices. I also request that the findings include recommendations to improve electric-grid reliability and storm resilience.

“Specifically, I ask that the investigation examine whether NIPSCO and its parent company, NiSource, complied with FERC-approved federal reliability standards and whether any deficiencies in reliability planning, system resilience, or emergency response warrant additional federal action. The review should evaluate the following factors:

Storm preparedness: The short- and long-term preparations NIPSCO undertook before the August 11 derecho, including emergency response planning, staffing, equipment, mutual-aid arrangements, and pre-positioning of resources.

Grid resilience and system design: The performance and resilience of NIPSCO’s distribution and transmission infrastructure in the face of extreme straight-line winds and increasingly severe weather events.

Vegetation management and maintenance: The adequacy and effectiveness of routine maintenance and vegetation-management practices, particularly considering the significant investments NIPSCO has reported making in these areas.

Restoration performance: The causes of the prolonged restoration timeline, including why certain communities remained without power substantially longer than others and whether restoration priorities, resource allocation, communications, and repair practices were appropriate.

Regional comparison: NIPSCO’s restoration performance compared with other electric utilities in Indiana and the surrounding region that experienced outages from the same weather event.

Infrastructure investments: Whether the substantial investments NIPSCO has made in recent years toward infrastructure replacement, grid modernization, reliability, and vegetation management have produced the adequate levels of resilience.

“This last point deserves particular scrutiny. NIPSCO has emphasized that recent rate increases are necessary to support infrastructure upgrades and improve grid reliability. Since 2016, customers have contributed approximately $2.3 billion toward infrastructure replacement, and $81 million towards vegetation management between 2023 and 2025. Given the magnitude of these investments, Northwest Indiana residents deserve to know why they experienced outages of this magnitude and duration, and whether additional investments, preparation, maintenance, or changes in reliability standards could have reduced the impact on families and businesses.

“I appreciate your consideration of this request and your commitment to ensuring the reliability and resilience of our nation’s electric grid. I also request that FERC coordinate, as appropriate, with the IURC, NIPSCO, state emergency-management officials, and other relevant stakeholders to implement the lessons learned from this event. I stand ready to work together to advance transparency and accountability, strengthen our electric infrastructure, and ensure that Northwest Indiana families and businesses can depend on safe, reliable, and affordable power.”

###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-houchin-applauds-announcement-nuclear-microreactor-nws-crane-develop,Rep. Houchin Applauds Announcement of Nuclear Microreactor at NWS Crane to Develop Energy Resilience,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 9, 2026

Today, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) celebrated the Department of War’s announcement that Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Crane will host Indiana's first advanced nuclear Micro Modular Reactor (MMR), with installation planned no later than September 2028.

The project, executed jointly by the Army's Janus Program, the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations and Environment, the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, and the State of Indiana, will deliver reliable, around-the-clock power to one of the nation's premier warfighting innovation hubs.

""Crane is a unique and valuable asset to our National Defense Portfolio and this investment demonstrates that Indiana is at the forefront of unleashing American energy.” said Rep. Houchin. ""With proven success in powering submarines, microreactors at our military installations is a natural next step in U.S. energy deployment and rebuilding our nuclear supply chain. The project will also have a positive impact at West Gate due to increased power supply to the base. Thank you to the Department of War, the Navy, our state and federal partners and to everyone whose efforts made this day possible. I am proud to have been part of a chorus of voices advocating for this project and I am proud to be among NWS Crane’s advocates in Washington.”

As the first power-producing nuclear reactor sited in Indiana, the Crane MMR will expand the state's power generation capacity and support the region's long-standing role as a hub for national defense research and manufacturing. The project implements President Trump's Executive Orders on deploying advanced nuclear reactor technologies for national security and reinvigorating the nuclear industrial base.

###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-seeks-independent-federal-review-indiana-data-centers-and-leap,Spartz Seeks Independent Federal Review of Indiana Data Centers and LEAP,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NOBLESVILLE, IN — Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright and U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum requesting an independent federal review of the rapidly expanding LEAP Research and Innovation District and other major data-center projects across Indiana, raising concerns about energy generation, grid reliability, transmission costs, water resources, and who ultimately pays.

“For two years, I have been raising concerns about the massive energy and infrastructure demands of data centers, as well as the significant water demands of the LEAP district,” said Rep. Spartz. “Based on my numerous recent town halls, Hoosiers are increasingly concerned and deserve clear answers about who is paying for what. I support bringing advanced manufacturing and strategic industries to Indiana, but Hoosier families, farmers, small businesses, and existing industries should not be forced to subsidize extraordinary private projects.”

In February, Meta announced a more than $10 billion LEAP campus with 10 planned data centers and approximately 1 GW of capacity. MISO planning documents estimate total LEAP demand at approximately 1,200 MW, with hundreds of millions of dollars in transmission infrastructure already identified.

At the same time, federal reliability warnings are escalating. The U.S. Department of Energy reported that MISO was reclassified from “elevated risk” to “high risk” for 2028–2031 and is now using emergency authority to preserve existing generation. MISO has also identified new transmission violations and worsened reliability issues resulting from additional LEAP load, requiring major corrective projects across multiple Indiana utility systems and raising concerns about the risk of blackouts as electricity demand continues to grow.

In June, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) preliminarily found that MISO lacks adequate protections against shifting large-load transmission costs to other customers, potentially resulting in “unjust and unreasonable rates.” FERC also raised concerns about inadequate transparency surrounding required transmission upgrades, their costs, and cost allocation.

Spartz’s letter further raises concerns about significant loopholes in transparency and oversight created by Indiana laws during LEAP’s development, as well as plans to supply up to 25 million gallons of water per day to Lebanon and LEAP from the White River watershed.

Spartz is requesting a full accounting of how much energy and water these projects will require, what new generation and infrastructure must be built, how much it will cost, who is responsible for those costs, and what enforceable protections exist to prevent Hoosier consumers and taxpayers from being left with the bill.

“We cannot retire firm generation, add massive new loads, spend hundreds of millions on infrastructure, and then leave Hoosiers guessing who will pay for it,” Spartz said. “We must ensure Hoosiers are not left paying higher utility bills while facing increased risks of blackouts. Hoosiers deserve substantiated answers before these commitments are made.”

The requested review would extend beyond LEAP to examine the cumulative effects of major data-center projects involving Google, Amazon, Meta, and other developers across Indiana.",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-asks-va-transparency-2-billion-investment-indiana,Spartz Asks VA for Transparency on $2 Billion Investment in Indiana,2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NOBLESVILLE, IN — Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins and Veteran Health Indiana Director Mike Hershman seeking greater transparency on roughly $2 billion in funding advanced by the U.S. House of Representatives for the replacement and modernization of the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis and a new VA clinic.

“After meeting with veterans across my district, it is clear that we still have significant work to do to improve access and quality of care, particularly in mental health,” said Rep. Spartz. “With roughly $2 billion of taxpayer money at stake, we need transparency, real competition, and accountability to make sure these investments actually deliver better care for Hoosier veterans.”

Rep. Spartz is asking the VA to provide information on how the funds will be spent, the competitive bidding and procurement processes for the projects, and the criteria used to select IU Health for the planned Fishers clinic. She also requested summaries of bids and proposals received, including bid amounts and alternatives considered.

The letter also raises concerns about increasing health care market concentration and asks what safeguards will be in place to prevent providers from shifting additional overhead, facility, or other costs to the VA and taxpayers.

“More spending does not automatically mean better care,” Rep. Spartz said. “Congress has an obligation to make sure these dollars are spent efficiently and transparently for the benefit of our veterans - not special interests.”

Rep. Spartz requested a response from the VA by October 8, 2026.",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-launches-official-congressional-inquiry-increased-ice,Congressman Carson Launches Official Congressional Inquiry into Increased ICE Indianapolis Activity,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS—Today, amid reports of a surge in ICE arrests across Indianapolis, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) submitted an official Congressional inquiry to the Department of Homeland Security.

Congressman Carson’s inquiry demands answers on the scope and probable cause for ICE’s apparent increased enforcement, including the number of people detained, apprehended, or arrested in Indianapolis this year, and other relevant details to ICE’s activity in Marion County.

In his letter to DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, Congressman Carson cites “reports of unnecessary force that put my constituents at risk…The immigrant population does not pose an active threat to the health and safety of our community – but ICE’s reported reckless actions in my district do.” He also writes that more than 96% of individuals ICE arrested in July did not have prior criminal convictions.

Since the Trump administration directed ICE to ramp up enforcement efforts at the start of his second term, Congressman Carson has repeatedly voted against ICE funding and called for the elimination of ICE as the agency continues to arrest indiscriminately, harm civilians and bystanders, and violate the right to due process.

In addition, Congressman Carson has called for an end to ICE detention at the Miami Correctional Facility in Bunker Hill, IN, which has denied medication and legal resources, and where two detainees died earlier this year.

The full text of Congressman Carson’s inquiry can be found below and attached:

Dear Secretary Mullin and Acting Director Venturella:

I write to demand information on reports of a surge in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests across Indianapolis, including operations involving masked agents, unmarked vehicles, and a dangerous foot pursuit across multiple lanes of traffic.

As representative for Indiana’s Seventh Congressional District, I am requesting information on any increase in enforcement operations in my district, the authority under which these operations are being conducted, and what safeguards are in place to protect my constituents’ constitutional rights and physical safety.

Indianapolis residents and media report a surge of ICE arrests across my district, including reports of unnecessary force that put my constituents at risk. For example, video footage shows ICE agents chasing a man across several lanes of traffic near Post Road and Interstate 70 on September 1, 2026, threatening the safety of drivers and other motorists. Witnesses also report unmarked vehicles and masked agents.

When pressed for answers, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) failed to provide an exact number of people detained, their location, and the outcome of their detention.

As a former law enforcement officer, I understand the importance of officers being able to perform their duties safely. Federal immigration enforcement does not excuse unsafe conduct, racial profiling, or violations of due process. I also understand that effective law enforcement depends on accountability, transparency, clear identification, safe operational planning, and public trust. Masked agents conducting arrests from unmarked vehicles, without appropriate public information about their identity, authority, or mission, creates fear and confusion. It makes it more difficult for residents to distinguish legitimate officers from those impersonating law enforcement. It erodes public trust in law enforcement – which is essential for local authorities to question witnesses and make arrests in cases that actually pose a danger to the general public.

In July, reports show that more than 96% of individuals arrested by ICE nationwide did not have prior criminal convictions. The immigrant population does not pose an active threat to the health and safety of our community – but ICE’s reported reckless actions in my district do.

Accordingly, please provide the following information and documents:",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-bill-strengthen-american-mineral-supply-chains-passes-house,Shreve Bill to Strengthen American Mineral Supply Chains Passes House,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced that the House passed his Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 (H.R. 1501), legislation to strengthen American mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on China.

Cars, appliances, cell phones, medical equipment, defense systems and the power grid all depend on minerals such as copper, lithium and rare earth elements. America has these resources, but years of government delay leave manufacturers dependent on foreign suppliers.

“America has the resources. We have the workers. What we don’t need is years of government delay and uncertainty,” said Rep. Shreve. “My bill gives qualified mining projects a clear and accountable permitting process. That will strengthen American manufacturing, support American jobs and reduce our dependence on China.”

H.R. 1501 establishes mining and mineral processing as sectors eligible for FAST-41. The program coordinates federal reviews, establishes public timelines and increases accountability without changing environmental standards. The bill also blocks a proposed Biden administration rule that would have restricted which mining projects qualify.

“I’m thrilled to see the Protecting Domestic Mining Act, which I introduced with Rep. Shreve, pass the House today. Mining plays a critical role in our national security, and this bill is an important step towards a more streamlined and coordinated approval process for new mines,"" said Rep. Blake Moore (UT-01). ""In Utah alone, mining contributes over $5 billion to our state GDP annually. As demand for hardrock minerals continues to grow, we should be producing more resources here, with American workers, rather than relying on foreign adversaries. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill so that we can increase domestic mineral production and make government work better for our miners.”

“It’s critical for the United States to achieve mineral dominance and end our reliance on foreign adversaries for critical natural resources,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (AK-04). “The Protecting Domestic Mining Act will speed up permitting for mining and processing, allowing America to unleash its domestic mineral abundance, support good-paying jobs and decrease reliance on foreign sources. I thank Representative Shreve for his work on advancing policies to secure America’s mineral supply chains.”

“By codifying into law what has already been a great success for American jobs, national security and supply chain independence, the Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 (H.R. 1501) will bring increased transparency, accountability and predictability in the permitting review process, reaffirming mining as a covered project under the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council’s (FPISC) permitting dashboard,” said Rich Nolan, President and CEO of the National Mining Association. “By streamlining the permitting process and establishing greater coordination and cooperation between regulatory agencies, we can bring domestic mining operations online more efficiently and help America unlock its true potential. We congratulate Representatives Shreve and Moore on passage of H.R. 1501 and encourage the Senate to quickly take up and pass this important legislation. The bill will help to ensure that made in America truly means mined in America.”

“Strengthening America’s mineral supply chains is critical to our national and energy security, and will require both greater domestic production and a permitting process that can move projects forward efficiently,” said James Dozier, President and CEO of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. “The Protecting Domestic Mining Act would help achieve both by expanding access to the FAST-41 program and giving critical mineral projects a clearer path toward expedited review. CRES is proud to support this important legislation and efforts to strengthen access to critical minerals vital for advanced, domestic, and cleaner energy production.”

The Protecting Domestic Mining Act now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-bill-strengthen-american-mineral-supply-chains-passes-house-1,Shreve Bill to Strengthen American Mineral Supply Chains Passes House,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced that the House passed his Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 (H.R. 1501), legislation to strengthen American mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on China.

Cars, appliances, cell phones, medical equipment, defense systems and the power grid all depend on minerals such as copper, lithium and rare earth elements. America has these resources, but years of government delay leave manufacturers dependent on foreign suppliers.

“America has the resources. We have the workers. What we don’t need is years of government delay and uncertainty,” said Rep. Shreve. “My bill gives qualified mining projects a clear and accountable permitting process. That will strengthen American manufacturing, support American jobs and reduce our dependence on China.”

H.R. 1501 establishes mining and mineral processing as sectors eligible for FAST-41. The program coordinates federal reviews, establishes public timelines and increases accountability without changing environmental standards. The bill also blocks a proposed Biden administration rule that would have restricted which mining projects qualify.

“I’m thrilled to see the Protecting Domestic Mining Act, which I introduced with Rep. Shreve, pass the House today. Mining plays a critical role in our national security, and this bill is an important step towards a more streamlined and coordinated approval process for new mines,"" said Rep. Blake Moore (UT-01). ""In Utah alone, mining contributes over $5 billion to our state GDP annually. As demand for hardrock minerals continues to grow, we should be producing more resources here, with American workers, rather than relying on foreign adversaries. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill so that we can increase domestic mineral production and make government work better for our miners.”

“It’s critical for the United States to achieve mineral dominance and end our reliance on foreign adversaries for critical natural resources,” said House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (AK-04). “The Protecting Domestic Mining Act will speed up permitting for mining and processing, allowing America to unleash its domestic mineral abundance, support good-paying jobs and decrease reliance on foreign sources. I thank Representative Shreve for his work on advancing policies to secure America’s mineral supply chains.”

“By codifying into law what has already been a great success for American jobs, national security and supply chain independence, the Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 (H.R. 1501) will bring increased transparency, accountability and predictability in the permitting review process, reaffirming mining as a covered project under the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council’s (FPISC) permitting dashboard,” said Rich Nolan, President and CEO of the National Mining Association. “By streamlining the permitting process and establishing greater coordination and cooperation between regulatory agencies, we can bring domestic mining operations online more efficiently and help America unlock its true potential. We congratulate Representatives Shreve and Moore on passage of H.R. 1501 and encourage the Senate to quickly take up and pass this important legislation. The bill will help to ensure that made in America truly means mined in America.”

“Strengthening America’s mineral supply chains is critical to our national and energy security, and will require both greater domestic production and a permitting process that can move projects forward efficiently,” said James Dozier, President and CEO of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. “The Protecting Domestic Mining Act would help achieve both by expanding access to the FAST-41 program and giving critical mineral projects a clearer path toward expedited review. CRES is proud to support this important legislation and efforts to strengthen access to critical minerals vital for advanced, domestic, and cleaner energy production.”

The Protecting Domestic Mining Act now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2614,"Congressman Baird Votes to Pay Federal Employees, Avoid Harmful Government Shutdown",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement on voting for H.R. 6500 a continuing resolution (CR), to fund the federal government, continue paying federal employees, and avoid a harmful government shutdown.

“The American people deserve a government that functions without interruption,” said Rep. Baird. “Congress must responsibly address spending while keeping the government open, allowing essential federal personnel to keep working. This continuing resolution gives Americans stability and certainty through our election cycle, while allowing Congress to continue toward responsible, long-term funding.”

Congressman Baird also commented on Section 2019 of the CR which extends the current federal definition of hemp until December 11, 2026.

“I am proud to also see a priority of mine included in this CR,” continued Rep. Baird. “This short extension of the current hemp definition will provide Congress and farmers the time needed to develop a long-term solution. Producers deserve as much certainty as possible in deciding what to plant. Farmers should have the freedom to plant the crops that best serve their operations and profits.”",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-votes-to-condemn-rise-of-socialism-in-america,Yakym Votes to Condemn Rise of Socialism in America,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) voted to condemn and denounce socialism in all its forms, including the recent rise of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).

“I never thought I’d see the day when the majority of Democrats would say out loud that they embrace socialism. But here we are,” Rep. Yakym said. “History has shown that socialism undermines the American Dream and fails again and again. I’m proud that House Republicans rejected it today and stood firm on the values that made America the greatest nation on earth.”

The DSA’s platform includes abolishing the nation’s borders, abolishing prisons, defunding the police, abolishing the U.S. Senate, and removing the president.

The resolution:

Condemns and denounces socialism in all its forms, including the DSA

Reaffirms support for free, fair, and secure elections

Reiterates that American elections are for American citizens only

Recommits the House to upholding the Constitution

Calls for enactment of the SAVE America Act

Read the full resolution HERE.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-houchin-bills-protect-children-online-combat-scams-advance-subcommittee,"Rep. Houchin Bills to Protect Children Online, Combat Scams Advance Subcommittee Markup",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 1, 2026

WASHINGTON—Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) today announced that two of her bills reported favorably out of the House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade. The bills are as follows:

H.R. 6488, Reducing Exploitative Social Media Exposure for Teens (RESET) Act, now known as Governing Underage Access and Requiring Data Consent in All Networks (GUARDIAN) Act

The GUARDIAN Act establishes a verifiable and revocable parental consent framework for social media platforms. Under the legislation, platforms would be prohibited from processing a child’s personal data without parental consent. Parents would also be able to revoke that consent at any time, with the child’s account closed and personal data deleted.

“Parents—not social media companies—should be in the driver’s seat when it comes to their children’s online lives,” saidRep Houchin. “The GUARDIAN Act, formerly the RESET Act, requires platforms to get verifiable consent from a parent before processing a child's personal data—and lets the parent withdraw that consent at any time. We have an opportunity to build on the bipartisan consensus this Committee and the House have already established, and I am proud to continue working with my colleagues to make the internet safer for our children.”

Click HERE to view Rep. Houchin’s remarks.

H.R. 5967, Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act

This bipartisan legislation introduced alongside Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-08) targets fraud, an issue costing Americans about $15.9 billion last year. By placing responsibility of preventing scams with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DoJ), the Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act proactively targets criminals engaging in fraud.

“Fraud is a massive and growing threat that costs Americans billions of dollars every year,” said Rep. Houchin. “The federal government has agencies working on different pieces of this problem, but criminals do not operate in silos. We need the federal government to share information, coordinate its efforts, and work directly with the companies on the front lines of identifying scams. The Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act gives this effort an owner and creates a coordinated strategy to better protect Americans.”

Click HERE to view Rep. Houchin’s remarks.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-houchin-and-kelly-bill-close-rural-broadband-gaps-clears-subcommittee,Reps. Houchin and Kelly Bill to Close Rural Broadband Gaps Clears Subcommittee Markup,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 1, 2026

WASHINGTON— Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) and Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02)’s bipartisan bill, the Data Broadband Reporting and Integration Deployment in Geographically Essential Areas (Data BRIDGE) Act, was reported today favorably out of the House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Communications & Technology.

Currently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s National Broadband Map focuses on serviceable locations like homes and businesses but often misses the acreage surrounding where farming takes place. This dramatically skews funding decisions and limits the ability to deploy broadband needed for modern farming technologies like guidance systems, soil sensors, yield monitors, and irrigation controls. The Data BRIDGE Act addresses this oversight by ensuring that information collected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) about the location of cropland is included in the National Broadband Map.

“Our farmers depend on access to reliable broadband to stay competitive in a modern economy,” said Rep. Houchin. “The Data BRIDGE Act is a low-cost, commonsense solution, using data the government already has to ensure every broadband dollar lands closer to where the work gets done, I have led the fight to expand broadband access to rural communities in Indiana for years and am proud of this important step toward closing the connectivity gap for our farm families and rural communities. Thank you to Chairman Hudson and Chairman Guthrie for supporting of this practical legislation.”

""As a proud co-lead of the Data BRIDGE Act, I know firsthand how critical accurate broadband data is for our farmers,"" said Rep. Kelly. ""My district stretches from the South Side of Chicago to over 4,500 farms in rural Illinois, and too many of my farmers still lack the connectivity they need for modern tools like soil sensors, guidance systems, and irrigation controls. This bill will use the data we already have to close the gap. I'll keep fighting to make sure no community in my district, urban, suburban, or rural, gets left behind in the digital age.”",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-introduces-pro-work-act-prevent-companies-lock-out-workers-receiving,Mrvan Introduces the PRO-WORK Act to Prevent Companies that Lock Out Workers from Receiving Federal Funds,2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan introduced the PRO-WORK (Preventing Revenue Opportunities for Workplace Lockouts and Retaliation) Act, which would prohibit corporations that lock out their workers from doing business with the federal government.

The PRO-WORK Act would prohibit an employer from receiving federal funds or tax credits because of a lockout. Specifically, federal funds would be withheld for a period equal to the duration of the lockout, and an employer would be ineligible to receive tax credits for the corresponding taxable year. If an employer engages in a subsequent lockout, the company would be ineligible for federal funds for one year and would be prohibited from receiving a tax credit during the following year.

Congressman Mrvan stated, “Members of organized labor built our region and are the backbone of our economy. International, off-shore companies cannot continue to disrespect American workers while benefitting from federal funding and tax credits. I am taking this action to prevent any company that locks out American workers from receiving our tax dollars.”

Roxanne Brown, International President of the United Steelworkers stated, ""When an employer locks out workers, refusing to let them on the job and depriving them of their paychecks and health insurance benefits in an attempt to extract concessions, it’s not just the workers and their families who suffer – it’s whole communities. Rep. Mrvan’s much needed legislation would help balance the scales, prohibiting corporations that take these drastic and punitive measures from receiving federal money and benefiting off the backs of taxpayers they are actively hurting. Our union thanks Rep. Mrvan for continuing to stand behind working families and encourages congressional colleagues to do the same by supporting this bill.”

Eric Schultz, President of USW Local 7-1 stated, “Our members know firsthand that a lockout doesn’t stop at the workplace gate. It impacts workers, their families, local businesses, and entire communities. Corporations should not be able to inflict that kind of economic harm and then expect the same taxpayers they are hurting to help fund their bottom line. I want to thank Congressman Mrvan for standing with working families and for putting real consequences against companies that deprive working families of their income and livelihoods.”

The full bill text of the PRO-WORK Act is available here.

###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-kids-online-safety-caucus-co-chairs-statement-historic-17-billion-meta,House Kids Online Safety Caucus Co-chairs Statement on Historic $17 Billion Meta Settlement,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"August 28, 2026

WASHINGTON—Co-chairs of the Kids Online Safety Caucus Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) and Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04) released the following statement on the Meta settlement.

“These basic actions to improve features on Meta’s platforms are long overdue, and this settlement meaningfully holds Meta accountable for its exploitation of millions of children across the country.

One company and one settlement is not enough. This settlement is not a substitute for bold and sweeping congressional action. What has been a race to the bottom, in terms of attention-fracking our youth, must become a race to the top, in terms of safety for young users. We are more committed than ever to passing legislation that ensures that adults, not algorithms, raise our children.""

—Rep. Houchin and Rep. Auchincloss",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2613,Congressman Baird Announces Opening of 2026 U.S. Military Academy Nomination Process,2026-08-28,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced the application process for nominations to U.S. service academies has opened for the 2026-27 school year.

Exceptional student leaders and scholar-athletes in Indiana's Fourth Congressional District may be nominated by Congressman Baird to one of four U.S. Service Academies – U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy (West Point) and the U.S. Naval Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination at this time.

“Attending a service academy is an honor steeped in history and a privilege,” said Congressman Baird. “Students have the opportunity to pursue a top tier education while serving their country. The academies are competitive and rigorous schools, but they are well worth the determination. It is my privilege to assist and nominate Indiana’s best and brightest on their paths to becoming the next generation of America’s leaders.”

The service academies offer a fully funded four-year education, including tuition, books, and board. Upon completion, graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as officers in their respective branches of service. The privilege of attending a service academy requires a five-year commitment to military service upon graduation.

Candidates must be U.S. citizens and, on July 1 of the year of entry, be at least 17 years old but not yet 23 years old to enter any of the academies, except the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, which has a maximum age of 25.

While a nomination is required to gain admission to a service academy, it does not guarantee admission. The admissions process is extremely competitive; therefore, interested students should prepare all application materials well in advance.

The admissions criteria includes: strong academic performance and standardized test scores, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Candidates must have a demonstrated history of strong leadership, community involvement, and receive an official Congressional nomination (except for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, which does not require a nomination).

Up to 10 individuals may be nominated for each vacant academy slot allotted to our district.

The deadline to submit an application for an academy nomination is Friday, November 6, 2026.

The application can be found here.

For questions, please contact the office of Congressman Baird at 202-225-5037.",1,2026-08-29T11:31:28Z,2026-08-29T11:32:37Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-statement-fema-approval-major-disaster-declaration,Mrvan Statement on FEMA Approval of Major Disaster Declaration,2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Rep. Frank J. Mrvan released the statement below following the approval from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of the State of Indiana’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the storms of August 11, 2026.

“FEMA has announced that the Major Disaster Declaration requested by Governor Braun for the State of Indiana has been approved.

“This declaration is an important step forward for Northwest Indiana. Our families, businesses, municipalities, first responders, and community organizations have endured tremendous hardship, and they need every available resource to recover and rebuild.

“I thank Governor Braun, our local officials, emergency management personnel, first responders, utility crews, volunteers, and everyone who has worked tirelessly throughout this crisis. I also appreciate the Administration’s approval of this request and the continued efforts of FEMA and our federal, state, and local partners.

“I have been proud to work alongside the Indiana Congressional Delegation to advocate for this assistance because we knew the scale of this disaster exceeded what many individuals and communities could handle on their own.

“Now, we turn our full attention to recovery.

“Federal assistance can provide critical support to eligible individuals, families, businesses, and local governments as they repair homes and infrastructure, address damage, and begin rebuilding. My office will continue working directly with FEMA, state and local officials, and our communities to ensure residents understand what assistance is available and can access the resources for which they qualify.

“To everyone who has been affected, please know that you are not alone. Northwest Indiana has shown extraordinary strength, compassion, and resilience throughout this disaster. We will continue standing together, helping our neighbors, and doing everything possible to ensure our communities come back stronger.

“Additional information about the federal assistance programs is anticipated in the coming days. In the meantime, individuals in Lake, LaPorte, and Porter Counties who are eligible for Individual Assistance can begin the application process through FEMA:

Apply online: www.DisasterAssistance.gov

Call FEMA: 1-800-621-3362

“The response brought us through the immediate crisis. Now, the work of recovery and rebuilding begins. I will remain focused on making sure Northwest Indiana receives every resource and every bit of support it needs until the job is done.

“My office will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available and will remain engaged with FEMA, state and local officials, and our communities throughout the recovery process.”

###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2612,Congressman Baird Announces Launch of 2026 Congressional App Challenge,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced that the 2026 Congressional App Challenge has officially launched.

The Congressional App Challenge engages student creativity and encourages participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education fields. This nationwide event allows high school and middle school students from across the country to compete against their peers by creating and exhibiting their software application, or ""app,"" for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice.

“I’m proud to announce that the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open,” said Rep. Baird. “As a Ph.D. scientist and a member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, I deeply value educating Hoosier students in STEM and computer sciences. Every eligible student in our district is encouraged to participate. I hope this challenge ignites a spark in students and encourages them to delve deeper into STEM fields. To all the students participating, best of luck! I look forward to seeing the outstanding apps our students create this year!”

The deadline for students to register for the Congressional App Challenge and submit their app online is 12:00 PM ET on October 26, 2026.

Students may use any programming language (C, C++, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, “block code,” etc.) and create an app for any platform (PC, web, tablet, robot, mobile, etc.). The winning apps are eligible to be featured in the Capitol Building and be put on House.gov. Students who create winning apps will also be invited to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception in Washington, D.C., where winners from across the nation will showcase their projects.

Eligibility:

To be eligible to participate in the Congressional App Challenge, you must be a middle or high school student at the time of app submission.

Students may register as individuals or as teams of up to four. No more than four students are allowed to form a team.

Students may compete in the district they reside in or the district they attend school in.

If competing as a team, at least half of the teammates must be eligible to compete in the district in which they are participating.

All competing students must be U.S. residents at the time of submission. There is no citizenship requirement for students.

If competing as a team, all members must submit their information on the registration form to participate.

Students may submit apps they created prior to the challenge, as long as their apps meet the standards of eligibility and were created after October 30, 2025.

Please click here for the 2026 rules and guidelines for students.

Please click here for the 2026 resources for teachers.

To register and for more information, please visit congressionalappchallenge.us.

For questions, please contact StudentSupport@CongressionalAppChallenge.us.",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-houchin-returns-over-10-million-constituents-through-casework,Rep. Houchin Returns Over $10 Million to Constituents Through Casework,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"August 25, 2026

SALEM, Ind.— Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced that her office has returned more than $10 million to constituents across Indiana’s Ninth District since taking office in 2023.

“Since taking office, it has been my priority to put service first and deliver tangible results for Hoosiers.” said Rep. Houchin. “Our dedicated constituent services team works every day to help people navigate the federal government. This milestone of $10 million returned is a testament to our team’s responsiveness, professionalism, and commitment to service. If you need assistance with a federal agency, please reach out to my office. We are here to help.”

Congresswoman Houchin’s office regularly assists constituents with issues involving federal agencies, including the Social Security Administration (SSA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and more. Through the constituent services program, the office helps people navigate and resolve issues ranging from slow response times and delayed tax refunds to Social Security benefits and complicated Department of State problems.

“For several years, we struggled with the IRS because Debra’s Social Security number had been incorrectly marked as deceased, causing our tax refunds to be held. With help from Congresswoman Houchin’s office, we were able to receive our refund for not just this year, but for each year it was held. Congresswoman Houchin’s team displayed professionalism and excellence through the entire process.” - Debra and David of North Vernon

“After my tax refund was delayed, Congresswoman Erin Houchin’s office contacted the IRS to find a solution. Thanks to their help, my case was resolved and I received my refund.” - Veronica of North Vernon

“When part of my disability check was transferred to Medicare without my consent, I found myself facing financial hardship. I turned to Congresswoman Houchin’s office, who worked with the Social Security Administration to resolve the problem. I am grateful for their responsiveness and support.” - Roy of Scottsburg

Constituents in Indiana’s Ninth District who need assistance with a federal agency are encouraged to contact Congresswoman Houchin’s office at Houchin.house.gov or by calling (812) 288-3999.",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/indiana-delegation-sends-letter-president-trump-supporting-major-disaster,Indiana Delegation Sends Letter to President Trump Supporting Major Disaster Declaration to Address August Storms,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"INDIANAPOLIS – Today, the Indiana congressional delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump in support of Governor Mike Braun’s August 20, 2026, request for a major disaster declaration following severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that began on August 11.

The delegation thanked President Trump for his swift approval of federal emergency assistance following the August storms and urged him to approve Governor Braun’s August 20 major disaster declaration request, while reiterating the delegation’s support for the governor’s pending request for the June storms.

The text of the letter is below:

Dear President Trump,

We thank you for your continued support following the severe weather that has impacted our state this summer, including your swift approval of Governor Mike Braun’s Emergency Declaration request following the storms, tornadoes, and flooding that began on August 11. That assistance has provided important federal resources as state and local officials continue responding to widespread damage.

As those efforts continue, we write in strong support of Governor Braun’s August 20 request for a Major Disaster Declaration. The damage from these storms has been widespread and, in some places, historic. At least eight Hoosiers have died, more than 1,000 families have been displaced, and power outages peaked at more than 360,000 customers, with Northwest Indiana among the hardest hit and tens of thousands still without power. More than 1,700 structures have been destroyed, damaged, or otherwise affected. Flooding forced hundreds of evacuations and water rescues, while roads and bridges were damaged or washed out. In Anderson and Noblesville, the White River exceeded flood records set in 1913, and hundreds of homes along the river in Indianapolis were evacuated.

In the days since the storms, Hoosiers have stepped up to help their neighbors with donations, supplies, and other support. State agencies, local officials, first responders, and volunteers have been working around the clock as well, but the damage has created needs on a scale that communities cannot reasonably meet on their own. Our offices are also hearing from people who are still trying to understand what assistance is available and when it may come. A Major Disaster Declaration would provide the additional federal resources needed to support that work and help families and communities through the weeks and months ahead.

We also continue to support Governor Braun’s August 6 request for a Major Disaster Declaration for the separate storms that struck from June 6–26. Many communities, particularly in Northwest Indiana, were still dealing with damage from those storms when the August disaster hit, leaving local governments to respond to another round of serious damage just weeks later.

We appreciate the assistance your administration and FEMA have provided thus far, as well as your continued consideration of the June request. The emergency assistance already approved has been important to the immediate response, and we respectfully urge swift approval of the Governor’s August 20 request to provide the additional support needed for recovery. We stand ready to work with your administration and FEMA to support affected Hoosiers and communities.

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Todd Young (IN)

U.S. Senator Jim Banks (IN)

Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01)

Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02)

Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03)

Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04)

Congressman Victoria Spartz (IN-05)

Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06)

Congressman André Carson (IN-07)

Congressman Mark Messmer (IN-08)

Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09)",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/indiana-delegation-sends-letter-president-trump-supporting-major-disaster,Indiana Delegation Sends Letter to President Trump Supporting Major Disaster Declaration to Address August Storms,2026-08-21,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, the Indiana congressional delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump in support of Governor Mike Braun’s August 20, 2026, request for a major disaster declaration following severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that began on August 11.

The delegation thanked President Trump for his swift approval of federal emergency assistance following the August storms and urged him to approve Governor Braun’s August 20 major disaster declaration request, while reiterating the delegation’s support for the governor’s pending request for the June storms.

The text of the letter is below and a pdf is available here.

“Dear President Trump,

“We thank you for your continued support following the severe weather that has impacted our state this summer, including your swift approval of Governor Mike Braun’s Emergency Declaration request following the storms, tornadoes, and flooding that began on August 11. That assistance has provided important federal resources as state and local officials continue responding to widespread damage.

“As those efforts continue, we write in strong support of Governor Braun’s August 20 request for a Major Disaster Declaration. The damage from these storms has been widespread and, in some places, historic. At least eight Hoosiers have died, more than 1,000 families have been displaced, and power outages peaked at more than 360,000 customers, with Northwest Indiana among the hardest hit and tens of thousands still without power. More than 1,700 structures have been destroyed, damaged, or otherwise affected. Flooding forced hundreds of evacuations and water rescues, while roads and bridges were damaged or washed out. In Anderson and Noblesville, the White River exceeded flood records set in 1913, and hundreds of homes along the river in Indianapolis were evacuated.

“In the days since the storms, Hoosiers have stepped up to help their neighbors with donations, supplies, and other support. State agencies, local officials, first responders, and volunteers have been working around the clock as well, but the damage has created needs on a scale that communities cannot reasonably meet on their own. Our offices are also hearing from people who are still trying to understand what assistance is available and when it may come. A Major Disaster Declaration would provide the additional federal resources needed to support that work and help families and communities through the weeks and months ahead.

“We also continue to support Governor Braun’s August 6 request for a Major Disaster Declaration for the separate storms that struck from June 6–26. Many communities, particularly in Northwest Indiana, were still dealing with damage from those storms when the August disaster hit, leaving local governments to respond to another round of serious damage just weeks later.

“We appreciate the assistance your administration and FEMA have provided thus far, as well as your continued consideration of the June request. The emergency assistance already approved has been important to the immediate response, and we respectfully urge swift approval of the Governor’s August 20 request to provide the additional support needed for recovery. We stand ready to work with your administration and FEMA to support affected Hoosiers and communities.”

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Todd Young (IN)

U.S. Senator Jim Banks (IN)

Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01)

Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02)

Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03)

Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04)

Congressman Victoria Spartz (IN-05)

Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06)

Congressman André Carson (IN-07)

Congressman Mark Messmer (IN-08)

Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09)

###",1,2026-08-22T05:24:59Z,2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-celebrates-historic-freedom-250-grand-prix,Shreve Celebrates Historic Freedom 250 Grand Prix,2026-08-21,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) released the following statement ahead of the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C.:

""This weekend, INDYCAR will make history on the streets of our nation’s capital. Drivers will race past monuments that tell America’s story — and the country will see what Hoosiers have known for generations: There’s nothing quite like INDYCAR racing!

""Race day is unlike anything else: the smell of fuel and hot asphalt. The roar down the straightaway — and a crowd holding its breath. It is engineering, innovation and competition on full display.

""Auto racing is woven into Indiana’s identity. Bringing our proud tradition to Washington is a fitting way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Mary and I wish every driver a safe, fast race. And as we say in Indy: Drivers, start your engines!”",1,2026-08-22T05:24:59Z,2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=325,Messmer Hosts Tax Event Highlighting the Benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill,2026-08-21,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"TERRE HAUTE, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) hosted a Tax Event alongside Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN) to discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) is delivering lasting tax relief for Hoosier families, workers, seniors, and small businesses. The event brought together local financial professionals, CPAs, bankers, and business leaders to examine the law's impact on Indiana's economy.

“The One Big Beautiful Bill prevented the largest tax increase in history from crushing hard-working Americans, while making many pro-growth tax policies permanent for all families and businesses,” said Rep. Messmer. “Today’s discussion provided an opportunity to speak directly with Hoosiers in our community and discuss new ways we can deliver relief with future tax cuts and job creating policies.”

During the forum, participants highlighted the positive impacts of the law’s permanent extension of provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and celebrated the bevy of expanded deductions which are creating new financial opportunities for American families and small businesses. Stakeholders also discussed the benefits of new deductions for overtime pay, and enhanced deductions for many senior citizens, which effectively eliminate federal taxes on Social Security checks, ensuring Hoosiers, many on a fixed income, keep more of their money. Altogether, the impact of the OBBB is promoting economic stability and growth across Indiana.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is helping lower taxes for Hoosier families and businesses, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/indiana-delegation-sends-letter-president-trump-supporting-disaster,Indiana Delegation Sends Letter to President Trump Supporting Disaster Declaration to Address June Storms,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan joined the Indiana delegation in Congress in sending a letter to President Trump in support of Governor Braun's request for a major disaster declaration following severe storms that impacted Indiana during the period of June 6-26, 2026.

The text of the letter is below and a pdf is available here.

“Dear President Trump,

“Firstly, we thank you for your swift approval of an emergency declaration for Indiana following severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding beginning on August 11, 2026. This will provide critical federal assistance to Hoosiers as the state responds to the devastating emergency, which has resulted in deaths and injuries, displaced families, mass power outages, and serious damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

“Additionally, we write in strong support of Governor Mike Braun’s previous request for a major disaster declaration following severe storms that impacted Indiana during the period of June 6 26, 2026. The intensity of weather events in that span caused significant devastation across the state, and the August storms have only exacerbated the impact on communities and local governments. We respectfully urge you to immediately grant this declaration and make federal assistance available to support Indiana’s recovery.

“During the period of June 6-26, several rounds of dangerous storms passed through Indiana, including at least 58 tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, a derecho, and flash flooding. This disaster ranks as the single largest one-month tornadic outbreak in Indiana’s weather history. As a result, 32 counties issued local disaster emergency declarations, and communities have been devastated, while residents lost their homes, schools and businesses were forced to close, and local governments were strained beyond their capacity.

“Specifically, two individuals died, a dozen individuals suffered documented injuries, power outages left 185,525 residents without power, and utility poles, roads, bridges, and trees were damaged. In addition, at least 210 individuals were displaced from their homes, and 1,213 residential structures were destroyed, damaged, or adversely affected. Having experienced some of the most severe weather, Lake County is acutely impacted and estimates infrastructure repairs exceeding $33.9 million.

“In response to the June disaster, the State of Indiana has worked closely with local governments and volunteer organizations to deploy critical emergency response resources and enable first responders and emergency management personnel to conduct damage assessments. The State has mobilized available resources, including shelters, search-and-rescue operations, debris removal teams, emergency communications, and evacuation assistance. However, given the magnitude of the devastation, it is clear that the damage is beyond the capacity of state and local resources to manage.

“These challenges have only intensified, compounded by ongoing storms in the region. On August 11 and 12, Indiana was again struck by widespread flooding, severe weather, and tornadic activity, creating even further destruction and overwhelming state and local resources. While the August 15 emergency declaration will mobilize key disaster relief efforts in the state, Hoosiers are in dire need of further federal resources to support recovery.

“To effectively respond to these needs, we urge you to swiftly approve the Governor’s August 6th request for Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and statewide Unified Hazard Mitigation Assistance to address the damage caused by the June disaster and ensure Hoosiers have the resources necessary to respond and recover. We also urge your approval of any future major disaster declaration requests submitted in response to the ongoing August storms. We appreciate your consideration and stand ready to work with your administration, FEMA, and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to support Indiana’s recovery.”

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Todd Young (IN)

U.S. Senator Jim Banks (IN)

Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01)

Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02)

Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03)

Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04)

Congressman Victoria Spartz (IN-05)

Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06)

Congressman André Carson (IN-07)

Congressman Mark Messmer (IN-08)

Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09)

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-statement-fema-emergency-declaration-approval,Mrvan Statement on FEMA Emergency Declaration Approval,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan released the statement below following the approval by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of Indiana’s emergency declaration request.

“On behalf of the residents of Indiana’s First Congressional District, I thank the Administration for its prompt approval of Indiana’s request for a federal emergency declaration. This assistance will provide critical resources to communities across Northwest Indiana as they recover from the devastating impact of severe weather, flooding, and tornadoes.

“My office will continue working with federal, state, and local officials to secure every available resource to support residents, families, and communities affected by these storms.

“Residents who have suffered damage are encouraged to report it through Indiana 211 at 866-211-9966. My office will continue to provide updates as additional federal assistance becomes available.”

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-urges-president-trump-approve-major-disaster-declaration-indiana,Spartz Urges President Trump to Approve Major Disaster Declaration for Indiana,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Muncie, IN – Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting a Major Disaster Declaration for Indiana following devastating flooding across her district.

“I am grateful to President Trump for acting quickly on Indiana’s emergency declaration after we spoke last week. After seeing the damage firsthand, it is clear that additional federal assistance will be needed. Some of the hardest-hit areas are among the poorest communities in our state, and many families simply do not have the resources to recover on their own,"" said Rep. Spartz.

Rep. Spartz continues working with state and local officials to support affected Hoosiers and expedite recovery efforts.",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-announces-service-academy-night-on-september-9,Yakym Announces Service Academy Night on September 9,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"MISHAWAKA, IN – Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) announced that he will host a Service Academy Night on September 9, 2026 for perspective Service Academy nominees. Service Academy Night will take place on September 9, 2026, beginning at 5:30pm EST at Penn High School, located at 56100 Bittersweet Road in Mishawaka.

At Service Academy Night, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the U.S. Service Academies, discuss the application process, and meet representatives from each Academy. To RSVP for Service Academy Night, please contact Griffin Nate at griffin.nate@mail.house.gov.

What: Rep. Yakym’s Service Academy Night

When: September 9, 2026 | 5:30pm EST",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/indiana-delegation-sends-letter-president-trump-supporting-disaster,Indiana Delegation Sends Letter to President Trump Supporting Disaster Declaration to Address June Storms,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. André Carson joined the Indiana delegation in Congress in sending a letter to President Trump in support of Governor Braun's request for a major disaster declaration following severe storms that impacted Indiana during the period of June 6-26, 2026.

The text of the letter is below and a pdf is available here.

“Dear President Trump,

“Firstly, we thank you for your swift approval of an emergency declaration for Indiana following severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding beginning on August 11, 2026. This will provide critical federal assistance to Hoosiers as the state responds to the devastating emergency, which has resulted in deaths and injuries, displaced families, mass power outages, and serious damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

“Additionally, we write in strong support of Governor Mike Braun’s previous request for a major disaster declaration following severe storms that impacted Indiana during the period of June 6 26, 2026. The intensity of weather events in that span caused significant devastation across the state, and the August storms have only exacerbated the impact on communities and local governments. We respectfully urge you to immediately grant this declaration and make federal assistance available to support Indiana’s recovery.

“During the period of June 6-26, several rounds of dangerous storms passed through Indiana, including at least 58 tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, a derecho, and flash flooding. This disaster ranks as the single largest one-month tornadic outbreak in Indiana’s weather history. As a result, 32 counties issued local disaster emergency declarations, and communities have been devastated, while residents lost their homes, schools and businesses were forced to close, and local governments were strained beyond their capacity.

“Specifically, two individuals died, a dozen individuals suffered documented injuries, power outages left 185,525 residents without power, and utility poles, roads, bridges, and trees were damaged. In addition, at least 210 individuals were displaced from their homes, and 1,213 residential structures were destroyed, damaged, or adversely affected. Having experienced some of the most severe weather, Lake County is acutely impacted and estimates infrastructure repairs exceeding $33.9 million.

“In response to the June disaster, the State of Indiana has worked closely with local governments and volunteer organizations to deploy critical emergency response resources and enable first responders and emergency management personnel to conduct damage assessments. The State has mobilized available resources, including shelters, search-and-rescue operations, debris removal teams, emergency communications, and evacuation assistance. However, given the magnitude of the devastation, it is clear that the damage is beyond the capacity of state and local resources to manage.

“These challenges have only intensified, compounded by ongoing storms in the region. On August 11 and 12, Indiana was again struck by widespread flooding, severe weather, and tornadic activity, creating even further destruction and overwhelming state and local resources. While the August 15 emergency declaration will mobilize key disaster relief efforts in the state, Hoosiers are in dire need of further federal resources to support recovery.

“To effectively respond to these needs, we urge you to swiftly approve the Governor’s August 6th request for Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and statewide Unified Hazard Mitigation Assistance to address the damage caused by the June disaster and ensure Hoosiers have the resources necessary to respond and recover. We also urge your approval of any future major disaster declaration requests submitted in response to the ongoing August storms. We appreciate your consideration and stand ready to work with your administration, FEMA, and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to support Indiana’s recovery.”

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Todd Young (IN)

U.S. Senator Jim Banks (IN)

Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01)

Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02)

Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03)

Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04)

Congressman Victoria Spartz (IN-05)

Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06)

Congressman André Carson (IN-07)

Congressman Mark Messmer (IN-08)

Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09)

###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-federal-emergency-assistance-approved-indiana-president-trump,Spartz: Federal Emergency Assistance Approved for Indiana by President Trump,2026-08-15,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Noblesville, IN – Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) announced that President Donald Trump has approved a federal emergency declaration for Indiana following historic flooding and severe weather affecting communities across the state.

The Presidential Emergency Declaration makes federal resources available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to supplement state and local response efforts, including lifesaving and emergency protective measures to address immediate threats to lives, public health and safety, and property.

As damage assessments continue, Indiana is expected to apply for a Major Disaster Declaration in the next few days to seek additional federal recovery assistance for affected communities and individuals. Rep. Spartz will continue working with the Governor, the Administration, FEMA, and local officials to support that request and ensure affected Hoosiers receive the assistance they need.

Rep. Spartz has been and will continue to be in direct communication with federal, state, and local officials to help coordinate the response.

“I am very grateful to President Trump for acting quickly to support Hoosiers affected by this devastating flooding. I spoke directly with the President today about the situation on the ground, and I appreciate his swift response,” said Rep. Spartz. “I also want to thank Secretary Markwayne Mullin and Governor Mike Braun for their leadership and coordination throughout this emergency, as well as our local emergency officials and first responders working around the clock. We will continue working together at all levels of government to make sure assistance gets to the communities that need it.”

Hoosiers affected by the flooding who need immediate assistance should call 211 for available state and local resources. Residents of Indiana’s 5th Congressional District may also contact Rep. Spartz’s office for assistance with federal agencies and resources:

Noblesville Office: (317) 848-0201

Muncie Office: (765) 639-0671",1,2026-08-16T05:26:31Z,2026-08-16T05:27:49Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2611,Congressman Baird Applauds Institute of Museum and Library Services Funding for Purdue University,2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement on the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) awarding Purdue University three grants totaling more than $818,000.

“Purdue University is a premier research and educational institution,” said Congressman Baird. “The grants from IMLS help develop library and archival programs across our country. The Purdue library system has proven itself well-equipped to put these resources to good use, expanding research capabilities and strengthening the services available to its students, faculty, and university community. As a Boilermaker myself, I am proud to see Purdue receive this funding to boost its important work.”

IMLS awarded Purdue three grants, one through its National Leadership Grants for Librariesprogram and two through its Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian program.

For more information about the Institute of Museum and Library Services, click here.",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-shreve-statement-recent-flooding-across-indiana,Rep. Shreve Statement on Recent Flooding Across Indiana,2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GREENWOOD, IN – Today, Congressman Jefferson Shreve released the following statement on the severe flooding affecting communities across Indiana:

“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the severe storms and flooding across Indiana. Over the past three days, communities across our state — including several in the 6th District — have been hit hard.

I’m grateful to the first responders, emergency crews, and local and state officials working around the clock to keep people safe and begin assessing the damage.

My office is closely coordinating with Governor Braun and state and local officials. We stand ready to help however we can. And at the federal level, I’ll work to make sure our communities have the support they need to recover and rebuild.

Indiana communities look out for one another. We’ve seen that again over the past 72 hours, and we’ll see it in the days ahead.”",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=326,Messmer Highlights Indiana’s Workforce Development Leadership at Apprenticeship Roundtable,2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"EVANSVILLE, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) hosted an Apprenticeship Roundtable at Ivy Tech Community College in Evansville to discuss how Indiana’s nationally recognized apprenticeship model can help strengthen workforce development nationwide. The event convened federal, state, education, and industry leaders to examine policies that expand career pathways and address America's workforce needs.

“Indiana has demonstrated that strong partnerships between employers, educators, and government can prepare workers for rewarding careers while meeting the needs of our economy,” said Rep. Messmer. “As Congress explores ways to strengthen workforce development, our state provides a proven model for expanding apprenticeships, closing the skills gap, and creating opportunities for hardworking Hoosiers.”

Participants discussed Indiana’s leadership in registered apprenticeships, the role of community colleges in preparing the next generation of skilled workers, and opportunities to build on successful state programs through federal workforce policy. The conversation also highlighted the importance of collaboration between employers, educators, and government to meet growing workforce demands in key industries.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is helping strengthen Indiana’s workforce to meet the challenges of the 21st century, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

###",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-announces-long-overdue-presidential-unit-citation-indiana-rangers,SPARTZ ANNOUNCES LONG-OVERDUE PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION FOR INDIANA RANGERS,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Noblesville, IN – U.S. Representative Victoria Spartz (IN-05) announced that Company D (Ranger), 151st Infantry Regiment of the Indiana Army National Guard - the legendary “Indiana Rangers”- will receive the Presidential Unit Citation for their extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War.

The recognition comes more than 50 years after the Indiana Rangers returned home from Vietnam in 1969. The unit was the only Army National Guard ground maneuver unit to serve in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and became one of the most decorated units of the war, earning hundreds of individual awards for valor and service.

“It has been a tremendous honor to help recognize these incredible Hoosier heroes,” said Rep. Spartz. “The Indiana Rangers demonstrated extraordinary courage under some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable. While their individual heroism was recognized many times over, recognition of the unit as a whole has been overdue since the Nixon era. More than half a century later, our nation is finally honoring what these brave men accomplished together.”

“The Indiana Rangers of the 151st Infantry Regiment set a standard of excellence that continues to inspire our force today,” said Maj. Gen. Larry Muennich, Adjutant General of the Indiana National Guard. “They lived the Warrior Ethos in the most unforgiving conditions, demonstrating a fierce loyalty to their brothers in arms and an unwavering commitment to the mission. We could not be prouder of this historic heroism. The Presidential Unit Citation is a testament to their grit, their sacrifice, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.”

The Presidential Unit Citation is the highest military decoration awarded to a unit for extraordinary heroism in combat. For the Indiana Rangers, the award recognizes not only individual acts of valor, but the extraordinary courage, teamwork, and sacrifice of the entire company.

Company D deployed to Vietnam in December 1968 and conducted hundreds of dangerous long-range reconnaissance missions, often operating deep in enemy-controlled territory. The Rangers returned to Indiana in November 1969, but for decades surviving members continued their efforts to secure appropriate recognition for the unit as a whole.

“Many of these heroes waited more than five decades for this day, and sadly, some did not live long enough to see it,” Spartz continued. “I am grateful to President Trump, Secretary Hegseth, Maj. Gen. Muennich, and everyone at the Indiana National Guard and Department of War who worked with us to finally make this long-overdue recognition a reality. Our nation must never forget the courage and sacrifice of these Hoosier heroes.”

The award will be given to the Indiana Rangers at the National Guard Association of the United States Conference & Exhibition in Indianapolis during the opening ceremony on August 29, 2026. Media must RSVP to Lauren Houck at lauren.a.houck.nfg@army.mil in order to receive media credentials.",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-fortville,Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Fortville,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours to assist Hoosiers on Wednesday, August 12th in Fortville.

During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Congressman Shreve’s staff to help resolve issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA).

""Our mobile office hours bring constituent services directly to communities across the Sixth District,” said Congressman Shreve. “If you’re having trouble with a federal agency, my team stands ready to help.”

If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333.

Mobile Office Hours Details:

Fortville, Indiana

Date: Wednesday, August 12

Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Location: Fortville Town Hall

714 E. Broadway, Fortville, IN 46040",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=324,Messmer Convenes Roundtable to Discuss Services for America’s Veterans,2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"VINCENNES, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) convened a Hoosier Veterans Roundtable at Vincennes University, bringing together local, state, and federal veterans organizations to discuss services and care for Hoosier veterans. The discussion focused upon benefit expansion, strengthening coordination among organizations, and identifying legislative priorities to best serve those who make our nation so proud.

“Our veterans fulfilled their commitment to America, and we will always fulfill ours to them,” said Rep. Messmer. “I appreciate everyone who joined today’s discussion, and I will continue working to strengthen the VA, improve access to care, and fight for the veterans of Indiana's Eighth District.”

Representatives from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, and local Veteran Service Organizations shared updates on ongoing initiatives and discussed the needs of veterans across Southern Indiana, including access to care in rural communities.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is supporting America's veterans in the House of Representatives, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-calls-real-price-transparency-not-another-washington-messaging-exercise,"Spartz Calls for Real Price Transparency, Not Another Washington Messaging Exercise",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Victoria Spartz (IN-05) called on House leadership to strengthen pending health care price transparency legislation before it reaches the House floor, urging Congress to deliver reforms that empower patients instead of protecting entrenched health care interests.

In a letter to House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, Spartz urged lawmakers to reconsider legislative text that relies on negotiated rates, complex reporting requirements, and cost estimates rather than providing patients with clear, upfront prices before they receive care.

“Americans deserve real price transparency - not another Washington messaging exercise,” said Rep. Spartz. “Patients should know the actual price of care before receiving treatment so they can compare options, shop for value, and benefit from true market competition.”

Spartz warned that the current proposals risk preserving the opaque pricing system that benefits large hospital systems and insurance companies while failing to deliver meaningful savings for American families. She also pointed to years of litigation, administrative burdens, and implementation challenges following the No Surprises Act as a reminder that Congress should avoid poorly drafted and difficult-to-enforce legislation.

Instead, Spartz urged House leadership to advance reforms that deliver meaningful transparency by requiring broader disclosure of negotiated prices and expanding access to health plan claims data to help identify overbilling and other practices that drive up costs.

“The goal should be simple: deliver actual prices, real competition, and lower costs for American families,” Spartz said. “Congress has an opportunity to put patients first by passing meaningful transparency reforms instead of protecting the status quo.”

Rep. Spartz copied House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise on the letter urging House leadership to strengthen the legislation before floor consideration.",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-leads-majority-of-house-republicans-in-push-to-strengthen-usmca,Yakym Leads Majority of House Republicans in Push to Strengthen USMCA,2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) led a letter signed by 168 House Republicans to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer that backs the Trump Administration’s approach to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Joint Review, pushing for improvements before agreeing to an extension.

“President Trump is a master negotiator, and the USMCA has delivered meaningful benefits to Hoosier manufacturers, farmers, and small businesses,” Rep. Yakym said. “This review process represents an important opportunity to strengthen the agreement, and I support the President’s focus on securing improvements before agreeing to an extension. Addressing shortcomings and confronting emerging challenges will set our economy up for even more success in the years to come. I hope Mexico and Canada bring their best offers to the table so that an extension can become reality.”

The letter notes the positive benefits of the USMCA and voices overall support for an extension. It backs the Trump Administration’s approach to the Joint Review process, which prioritizes outcomes over a set deadline for securing an extension.

Those outcomes include:

Securing market access that was promised six years ago but not meaningfully delivered;

Addressing new actions taken by Mexico and Canada that harm American manufacturers, agriculture, services providers, and workers;

Confronting unfair trade and investment practices from third countries that seek to undermine the North American economy and threaten American jobs; and

Rationalizing tariff structures to strengthen regional competitiveness in the global marketplace.

Background:

Support for the letter spans the conference. Nearly 90% of the Ways and Means, Agriculture, and Energy and Commerce Committees signed on, along with 80% of Appropriators and 85% of committee chairs.

July 1 marked the first USMCA Joint Review, in which the U.S., Mexico, and Canada met to decide whether to extend the agreement for 16 more years. Mexico and Canada agreed to an extension, while the U.S. did not.

The USMCA remains in force until 2036 as the three sides continue to discuss improvements to the agreement.

USTR Jamieson Greer has said that the U.S. wants to secure commitments from Mexico and Canada that improve market access for American producers and make other changes before agreeing to a renewal.

Yakym sits on the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over U.S. trade policy, and has closely tracked the USMCA Joint Review.",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-mcbath-introduce-bipartisan-read-act-strengthen-literacy-education,"Houchin, McBath Introduce Bipartisan READ Act to Strengthen Literacy Education Nationwide",2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"August 4, 2026

Washington, D.C. —Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN) joined Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA) to introduce the bipartisan, bicameral READ Act, legislation to address America’s literacy crisis using evidence-based reading instruction known as the Science of Reading.

Houchin introduced the legislation alongside Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Rep. Kevin Kiley (I-CA), Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA), and Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT). A companion bill in the Senate is being led by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jim Banks (R-IN), and Tim Scott (R-SC). Introduction of this legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives follows passage of the READ Act in the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions in an overwhelming vote of 20-2 last week.

According to the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress, 12th-grade reading scores dropped to the lowest average since the assessment was first completed in 1992. Millions of young people in America are leaving school without the ability to read proficiently, significantly impacting their readiness for college, a career, and civic life. It is estimated that low literacy rates in America cost taxpayers an estimated $224 billion annually and nearly $40 billion in lost productivity.

“Reading is the foundation of every child’s education, yet too many students are graduating without the basic literacy skills they need to succeed,” said Rep. Houchin. “We cannot accept a system that allows students to move from grade to grade without mastering the fundamentals of reading. The bipartisan READ Act gives educators the tools and training to implement the science of reading, helping ensure every student has the strong literacy foundation needed to thrive in school, the workforce, and throughout life.”

“One of my most treasured memories as a mother was instilling a love of reading in my son Jordan,” Rep McBath said. “Tragically, far too many young people in America are graduating high school without basic literacy skills. The READ Act will affirm our country’s commitment to ensuring that all students can develop the skills needed for success beyond high school. I thank my colleagues for their collaboration on this essential bipartisan legislation.”

“Reading is foundational to learning, and strong literacy skills set the stage for lifelong success,” said Rep. Bonamici. “Students thrive with evidence-based instruction that helps them develop these core skills. This bipartisan bill will provide critical federal resources for educational practices aligned with the science of reading so students in our highest-need schools and districts have the support they need to succeed.”

""In California and all across the country, millions of students are falling behind when it comes to their ability to read proficiently,” said Rep. Kiley. “Our bipartisan legislation will help reverse this troubling trend through reforms including improved teacher training and early literacy tests that will assure more students gain the proficiency they need for success in school and life.""

“Washington used to believe that improving school was both important and possible, but after years of paralysis, our kids have been paying the price in lower reading scores and worse education outcomes,” said Rep. Harder. “The good news is that states have already proven that evidence-based reforms can reverse years of learning losses. The READ Act is a critical step towards reinvigorating federal leadership in education and accelerating solutions to our nationwide literacy crisis - we can’t let any more time go to waste.”

“When we teach our children to read, we give them the tools to think critically, and a child who can think critically can achieve whatever they set their mind to,” said Rep. Owens. “That's why it's so troubling to see literacy rates falling across our country. I'm proud to co-lead the READ Act, which invests in evidence-based literacy instruction and holds states accountable for results, while keeping decisions with parents and local schools where they belong.”

The READ Act will:

Support state implementation of evidence-based reading practices grounded in the science of reading

Prioritize funding to the lowest-performing states

Improve teacher preparation and professional development

Expand early screening, intervention, and parental notification for students at risk of reading difficulties

Strengthen literacy research

The legislation is supported by the National Parents Union, the American Federation of Teachers, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, the National Association of School Psychologists, the Council of Administrators of Special Education, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, The Arc, Families in Schools, and Educators for Excellence.

Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

Issues:Education",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-kicks-off-hoosier-heartland-district-tour-to-highlight-working-families-tax-cuts,Yakym Kicks Off “Hoosier Heartland” District Tour to Highlight Working Families Tax Cuts,2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"GRANGER, Ind. — Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) kicked off his “Hoosier Heartland Tour,” his annual August District Tour, traveling to all 11 counties of the Second District to visit manufacturers, farms, and local organizations and hear directly from constituents, including how the Working Families Tax Cuts are impacting Hoosier paychecks and businesses.

“This is easily the best part of my job, getting to spend August traveling to all 11 counties in Indiana’s Second District,” Rep. Yakym said. “I spend a lot of time traveling back and forth between Granger and Washington during session, and this work period every summer is carved out for exactly this reason — to make sure I can hear directly from Hoosiers and figure out what I can do for them.”

Stops include manufacturing floors at Plymouth Foundry, Morrison Products, Forest River, and Tire Rack; ag country visits with the Indiana Farm Bureau, Indiana Corn and Soy, Grass Creek Cattle Co., Parkman Farms, York Farms, and Hannah’s Country Road Greenhouse.

And stops at Miller Poultry Hatchery, Caterpillar Child Care, Standard Industrial, Winchester, and Larson Danielson Construction. Yakym will also visit community organizations including the Milford Food Bank and Friends of Medaryville Gym, plus a medal presentation honoring a constituent in Rochester.

Background:

Yakym, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, holds the Hoosier Heartland Tour every August work period.

This year’s tour also marks the one-year anniversary of the Working Families Tax Cuts, along with other legislative wins including the Farm, Food, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, and the SAVE America Act.",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-calls-senate-lower-costs-farmers-and-consumers-not-protect-big-ag,Spartz Calls on Senate to Lower Costs for Farmers and Consumers - Not Protect Big Ag,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Victoria Spartz (IN-05) sent a letter to the Senate Agriculture Committee urging senators to include her bipartisan Farm Bill affordability amendment in the final legislation.

Rep. Spartz’s amendment would exempt large farm tractors, combines, and sprayers from burdensome EPA emissions regulations that have increased equipment costs, caused costly repair delays, created fire hazards, and driven up grocery prices. The amendment would make farm machinery more affordable, help protect small family farms from bankruptcy and consolidation, and lower costs for American consumers.

“American farmers are being crushed by rising input costs while families continue to pay more at the grocery store,” Rep. Spartz said. “Congress should be removing unnecessary burdens — not adding them. The Senate now has a choice: stand with American farmers and consumers by lowering costs, or stand with Big Ag and the special interests that benefit from regulations driving consolidation and higher costs.”

Rep. Spartz’s amendment passed the House on a bipartisan basis and is the only Farm Bill provision specifically aimed at reducing farmers’ input costs. It has also been endorsed by the Indiana Farm Bureau and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-introduces-988-lifeline-location-improvement-act,Houchin Introduces 988 Lifeline Location Improvement Act,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 31, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) recently introduced the bipartisan 988 Lifeline Location Improvement Act alongside Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Congressman Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ-07), and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08). The legislation would improve geolocation capabilities and increase the effectiveness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM).

The legislation directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to initiate a notice of inquiry on the challenges of transmitting geolocation information with 988 calls and instructs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study the policy, legal, technical, and financial considerations associated with improving geolocation capabilities. The findings will help inform future legislative and administrative action to better connect individuals in crisis with local emergency services.

""The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has been a vital resource for those facing mental health crises, saving lives across the country,"" said Rep. Houchin. ""This bipartisan bill will fine tune location information for 988 calls, ensuring people are connected with local emergency services as quickly as possible when they need them most.""

""When someone reaches out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline during a mental health crisis, every second matters,” said Rep. Krishnamoorthi. “We should be doing everything we can to connect people with the help they need as quickly as possible. This bipartisan legislation brings together mental health, public safety, and telecommunications experts to identify practical solutions that strengthen the 988 Lifeline and help ensure it works better for the people counting on it.""

“It is critical that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline connects Americans with the help that they need, where they need it,” said Rep. Kean. “This legislation is an important step toward ensuring that people can connect with local resources as efficiently as possible.”

The 988 Lifeline Location Improvement Act would:

Direct the FCC to examine the legal, privacy, technical, and financial challenges of transmitting geolocation information with 988 calls.

Require the GAO to study opportunities and challenges related to implementing geolocation capabilities for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and provide recommendations to Congress.

Evaluate geolocation challenges affecting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and access the 988 American Sign Language (ASL) line through Direct Video Calling (DVC) and Video Relay Services (VRS).

The legislation is endorsed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and APCO International.

The Senate companion legislation passed the Senate by unanimous consent in May 2026.

Read the bill text here.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-releases-ice-response-conditions-miami-correctional,Congressman Carson Releases ICE Response on Conditions at Miami Correctional,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) released a response from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following his inquiry into the conditions at the Miami Correctional Facility in Bunker Hill, Indiana. Congressman Carson’s inquiry and ICE’s response can be found below:

Letter to Secretary Markwayne Mullin

Letter from the Department of Homeland Security

Congressman Carson made the following statement:

“I am deeply concerned by officials’ continued failure to provide timely medical care and prescribed medications to people in ICE custody at Miami Correctional Facility. The government has a clear legal duty to protect the health and safety of every person in its custody. When that duty is ignored, the consequences are life threatening, and in some cases, deadly. Although ICE’s response indicates that some issues raised in my initial inquiry have been addressed -- including upgrades to the commissary system and updates to the law library content to include a congressional privacy release form -- the agency’s answers raise even more serious questions about medical care, medication access, and legal access.

“I initially raised concerns that detainees were not receiving proper medical care and prescription medications after two ICE detainee deaths at Miami Correctional, particularly given reports of delayed and inadequate medical care at the facility. ICE’s response to my letter only deepens those concerns. ICE now acknowledges that detainees at Miami Correctional missed a staggering 799 doses of medication. This is gravely concerning, and these figures demand immediate scrutiny.

“Just this week, the ACLU of Indiana filed a lawsuit on behalf of Andranik Grigoryan, a former ICE detainee who suffered a severe seizure after he was denied prescribed medication. These allegations are consistent with what detainees at Miami Correctional told me during my oversight visit in April, including one man who could not even access Tylenol in a timely manner. Extensive reporting also demonstrates poor staffing and a dangerous medical care backlog at Miami Correctional. There is more than enough evidence: Miami Correctional is failing to uphold basic standards of care for its detainees. This is not an isolated incident -- this is a deadly pattern of neglect.

“Today, I am calling for immediate intervention and a thorough, transparent investigation into injuries and deaths at Miami Correctional. I am also calling for accountability of any officials whose actions or failure to act contributed to these deaths and injuries. ICE must make the findings of that investigation public and provide a full accounting of the medical care and medication access provided at Miami Correctional.

“I renew my call to end ICE detention at Miami Correctional and urge swift action before another person is seriously harmed, injured, or killed by ICE. Transparency is the first step towards accountability, which is why I am making ICE’s full response public.

“Since this administration’s brutal escalation of ICE detainment, I have not and will not vote to give ICE a penny more of your taxpayer dollars without meaningful accountability and fundamental reforms. ICE is terrorizing families, undermining due process, and violating basic human rights.”

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-franklin-and-knightstown,Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Franklin and Knightstown,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours to assist Hoosiers on Tuesday, August 4th in Franklin and Thursday, August 6th in Knightstown.

During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Congressman Shreve’s staff to help resolve issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA).

""Our mobile office hours bring constituent services directly to communities across the Sixth District,” said Congressman Shreve. “If you’re having trouble with a federal agency, my team stands ready to help.”

If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333.

Mobile Office Hours Details:

Franklin, Indiana

Date: Tuesday, August 4th

Time: 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM

Location: Franklin City Hall

70 E Monroe Street, Franklin, IN 46131

Knightstown, Indiana

Date: Thursday, August 6th

Time: 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Location: Knightstown Town Hall

120 E Main Street, Knightstown, IN 46148",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/american-flood-coalition-recognizes-representative-erin-houchin-federal,American Flood Coalition Recognizes Representative Erin Houchin as a Federal Champion,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 29, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC — The American Flood Coalition (AFC) recognized Representative Erin Houchin (IN) as a Federal Champion for her leadership, public service, and commitment to finding solutions to challenges posed by flooding.

“Flooding is a serious challenge for many communities across Indiana's Ninth District, especially those along the Ohio River,” said Rep. Houchin. “I've worked closely with local leaders to improve infrastructure and flood mitigation efforts, and have secured federal funding for stormwater projects in communities like Madison, Austin, and Clarksville. I'm proud to partner with the American Flood Coalition to help protect lives and reduce the impact of future flooding.”

Representative Houchin joins over fifty bipartisan AFC Federal Champions, those Members of Congress are dedicated to combatting the effects of stronger storms and more frequent flooding. As the first AFC Federal Champion from Indiana, Rep. Houchin brings her record of investing in flood resilience along the Ohio River and improving disaster recovery for southern Indiana communities to this work.

""Having served southern Indiana communities throughout her career, Rep. Houchin brings a common-sense perspective to building safer, more resilient cities and towns along the Ohio River,” said Melissa Roberts, AFC Founder and Executive Director. ""Her leadership to secure resources for flood-ready infrastructure projects, invest in natural infrastructure that bolsters flood resilience, and reform federal programs so communities can rebuild stronger will inform her continued work as a Federal Champion.""

In her capacity as Co-Chair of the bipartisan Ohio River Caucus, Rep. Houchin has supported Ohio River basin restoration efforts to reduce flood risk, support farmers, fuel local economies, and enhance local watersheds. Among other federal investments, Rep. Houchin has spearheaded projects to reduce flooding and improve water quality in Madison, Indiana.",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-introduces-legislation-expand-higher-education-access-homeless-and,Houchin Introduces Legislation to Expand Higher Education Access for Homeless and Foster Youth,2026-07-28,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 28, 2026

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN), Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) reintroduced the Higher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth Act to remove barriers to higher education for homeless and foster youth and help ensure they can pursue a higher education and get the support they need to thrive.

“Higher education should be an opportunity to every child in America, including students who have faced unimaginable circumstances like homelessness or aging out of foster care,” said Rep. Houchin. “As a former child services worker, I am proud to cosponsor the bipartisan Higher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth Act to ensure students facing these challenges have greater access to resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed.”

“Everyone deserves a fair shot at pursuing higher education. But too often, foster youth and youth experiencing homelessness are priced out of pursuing their dreams or fall through the cracks once enrolled,"" said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “I’m proud to reintroduce this bill alongside Rep. Houchin and Sen. Murray to help even the playing field and ensure that these youth are supported throughout their education journeys. As a Representative of Los Angeles County—home to over 30,000 foster youth—I will continue to champion our most vulnerable young people.”

“Homeless and foster youth face barriers most students never have to think about, from proving their independence for financial aid to having nowhere to go over winter break—our country should have their back to make sure they have the same opportunities as any other students. These young people have already shown more grit than most of us will ever need. The least we can do is stop making access to higher education harder,” said Senator Murray. “Our bill can make sure that higher education is more affordable and accessible for homeless and foster youth—in-state tuition for kids without a stable address, prioritization for work-study programs, a real person at every institution to help these young people get the support they need, and more. We know that education can be the great equalizer and help these kids find financial security and stability—so let’s pass this bipartisan bill and make it happen.”

In 2025, 745,652 people experienced homelessness on a single night in the United States. More than 1.5 million children and youth in public schools across the country experienced homelessness during the 2023–24 school year.

The Higher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth Act of 2026 requires colleges and universities to take steps to improve outreach to and support for homeless and foster youth, prioritizes homeless and foster youth for Federal Work Study opportunities, provides in-state tuition rates for students who haven’t had stable residency, and improves data collection and reporting to better reach and serve homeless and foster youth—among other steps. Prior versions of the legislation proposed a number of critical improvements to the financial aid process for homeless and foster youth, which were subsequently enacted into law as part of the FAFSA Simplification Act.

The legislation is endorsed by SchoolHouse Connection, Foster Success, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, ACTION Ohio (Alumni of Care Together Improving Outcomes Now), iFoster, Child Welfare League of America, Swipe Out Hunger, Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children, All4Ed, EDGE Partners, The Hope Center for Student Basic Needs, Fostering Academic Achievement Nationwide (FAAN), Foster Greatness, National Center for Housing & Child Welfare, National Network for Youth, John Burton Advocates for Youth, National Association of Counsel for Children, Overcoming Hurdles in Ohio Youth Advisory Board (OHIO YAB), Hildreth Institute, Youth Law Center, Association of Children's Residential & Community Services (ACRC), Center for Higher Education Policy and Practice at SNHU, Children's Advocacy Institute, County Welfare Directors Association of California, Covenant House International, Education Law Center, Foster Care Alumni of America, Institute for Educational Leadership, Juvenile Law Center, Lutheran Services in America, National Association of County Human Services Administrators, National Education Association, Sayra and Neil Meyerhoff Center for Families, Children and the Courts, VOICES for Alabama's Children, Washington State Post Secondary Basic Needs Coalition, and Youth Villages.

Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

Issues:Education",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-introduces-bipartisan-rural-hospital-cybersecurity-enhancement-act,Houchin Introduces Bipartisan Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act,2026-07-27,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 27, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA-08) recently introduced the bipartisan Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, alongside cosponsors Representatives Jefferson Shreve (R-IN), Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Josh Hawley (R-MO), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ). The legislation strengthens cybersecurity at rural hospitals by directing the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop a comprehensive rural hospital cybersecurity workforce strategy, expand cybersecurity training resources, and improve preparedness against growing cyber threats.

""Rural hospitals are often operating with limited staff and resources, yet they're expected to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks,"" said Rep. Houchin. ""When a rural hospital is forced offline, patient care is put at risk. This bipartisan bill is a practical step toward giving rural providers the workforce, training, and tools they need to strengthen their cybersecurity and continue serving their communities.""

“As a doctor and a patient, I know we must protect hospitals from cyberattacks,"" said Rep. Schrier, M.D. “Rural hospitals in particular often lack the funding and workforce necessary to prevent cyberattacks and some in Washington have already been impacted. This bill will give rural hospitals the tools they need to keep patients safe, protect personal data, and secure medical systems.""

""Rural hospitals in Indiana's Sixth District are often the only option for Hoosier families who need care close to home,” said Rep. Shreve. “These hospitals don’t have the resources to hire a cybersecurity team, but they still need to keep their patients’ private information secure. This bill gives them the training and tools they need to do that. I'm glad to join Rep. Houchin on this important legislation.""

""In our complex world, it is imperative that we safeguard sensitive personal information and medical records from cybercriminals,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""The Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act aims to protect patient information by helping develop, promote, and expand the rural hospital cybersecurity workforce, particularly through education and training programs tailored to the needs of rural hospitals, such as those in Pennsylvania.""

""For rural hospitals, a cyberattack isn't just a disruption to technology, it can become a disruption to care,” said Rep. Tokuda. “This legislation helps ensure rural providers can continue delivering lifesaving care by having the resources, training, and workforce support they need to protect patient data, respond to threats, and continue serving their communities.""

“In our rapidly changing digital age, cybersecurity threats continue to grow. Rural hospitals and health clinics often lack the resources and personnel to defend against these threats,” said Rep. McClellan. “The Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act develops a comprehensive workforce training program to protect our rural communities from attacks that could exploit vulnerabilities in our health care system and undermine access to care. I am pleased to work on a bipartisan basis with Congresswoman Houchin to bolster our security measures to help maintain a strong care network.”

“For many years, TRIMEDX has worked with, and provided medical device service for, small town and rural hospitals throughout the country. Already challenged by increasing cost pressures, we have seen first- hand how vulnerable rural hospitals are to cybersecurity attacks and we support any efforts for the development of strategies to address cyber challenges,” said Kristi McDermott, TRIMEDX Chief Operating Officer. “Accordingly, TRIMEDX applauds Rep. Houchin and Rep. Schrier for introducing this strong bipartisan bill which seeks to address growing cybersecurity challenges, to include workforce development strategies, in rural hospitals throughout the country.”

The Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act requires HHS to:

Develop a comprehensive rural hospital cybersecurity workforce development strategy that considers public-private partnerships, cybersecurity curricula, workforce training, and policy recommendations.

Make instructional materials available to help rural hospitals train staff on fundamental cybersecurity practices.

Provide annual updates to Congress on the implementation of the strategy and any related workforce development initiatives.

Cyberattacks against hospitals have become more frequent and more sophisticated, placing patient care, medical records, and critical healthcare infrastructure at risk. Rural hospitals are particularly vulnerable because they often lack the resources to recruit and retain dedicated cybersecurity professionals.

The legislation is endorsed by the American Hospital Association, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, National Rural Health Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, TRIMEDX, and the Alliance for Quality Medical Device Servicing.

The Senate companion legislation has twice advanced out of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

Read the full bill text here.

Issues:Health",1,2026-07-28T07:37:32Z,2026-07-28T07:38:50Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2583,Congressman Baird Applauds Passage of Four Priority Bills in House Foreign Affairs Committee,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after four of his bills, the No Official Palestine Entry (NOPE) Act, Passports for Purple Hearts and Medals of Honor Act, Tech Diplomacy Training Act, and FORGE Act, passed out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee yesterday, as part of a comprehensive package to modernize U.S. State Department policies.

“I am proud to see my legislation pass out of the full House Foreign Affairs Committee,” said Congressman Baird. “These bills will ensure Americans’ tax dollars are not funneled to entities like the Palestine Liberation Organization as it continues to commit human rights violations and incite acts of terrorism; train our nation’s top diplomats in emerging technologies; secure America’s global leadership in nuclear technology; and eliminate financial burdens for decorated veterans who apply for a passport. This legislation is critical to strengthening our national security and America’s standing on the global stage. I thank Chairman Mast for his continued leadership and commitment to putting American interests first in our foreign policy, and I hope this legislation passes the full U.S. House soon.”

Background:

H.R.3208 — No Official Palestine Entry (NOPE) Act of 2025: Expands existing funding prohibitions to include organizations in the United Nations (UN) that afford status, rights, or privileges to the Palestinian Authority (PA) or Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) beyond observer status.

H.R.7398 — Passports for Purple Hearts and Medals of Honor Act: Eliminates passport book fees for Purple Heart and Medal of Honor recipients.

H.R.8212 — Tech Diplomacy Training Act: Ensures all Foreign Service officers receive training on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) concepts prior to being stationed abroad, and makes the same training available and encouraged for all other U.S. State Department employees.

H.R. 8648 — FORGE Act: Secures the United States’ global leadership in Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology and implements American safety, security, and nonproliferation standards. The FORGE Act also codifies a U.S. State Department program, the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) program, designed to deepen strategic ties with partner nations on secure and safe nuclear energy infrastructure.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-edinburgh,Congressman Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Edinburgh,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours to assist Hoosiers on Monday, July 27th in Edinburgh.

During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Congressman Shreve’s staff to help resolve issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA).

""Our mobile office hours bring constituent services directly to communities across the Sixth District,” said Congressman Shreve. “If you’re having trouble with a federal agency, my team stands ready to help.”

If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333.

Mobile Office Hours Details:

Edinburgh, Indiana

Date: Monday, July 27th

Time: 2:00PM to 4:00PM

Location: Edinburgh Town Hall

107 S. Holland Street, Edinburgh, IN 46124",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-leads-indiana-delegation-resolution-supporting-freedom-250-grand-prix,Shreve Leads Indiana Delegation Resolution Supporting Freedom 250 Grand Prix,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) today introduced a resolution expressing support for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, the first INDYCAR race ever held in the nation’s capital. Scheduled for Aug. 21-23, 2026, the event will bring one of Indiana’s signature traditions to Washington as part of America's 250th anniversary.

Each Memorial Day weekend, hundreds of thousands of fans from around the world attend the Indianapolis 500, the world’s largest single-day sporting event. This August, that Hoosier tradition comes to Washington, where INDYCAR drivers will race past some of the nation’s most recognizable landmarks on a street course surrounding the National Mall.

The resolution is cosponsored by every Indiana Republican in the U.S. House of Representatives, underscoring the delegation’s unified support for showcasing Indiana’s motorsports heritage during America’s 250th anniversary. Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), chairman of the Congressional Motorsports Caucus and the National Republican Congressional Committee, also joined as a cosponsor.

“Racing is Indiana’s gift to American sport,” said Rep. Jefferson Shreve (IN-06). “For the first time, INDYCAR will race through the streets of our nation’s capital during America’s 250th anniversary. Few sports better showcase American innovation, precision and determination. It’s fitting that an Indiana tradition will help celebrate this milestone in our nation’s history.”

“Motorsports represent the best of American grit, innovation, and our people’s competitive spirit. The industry also drives about $69.2 billion in economic impact, supports more than 318,000 jobs, and generates roughly $8.2 billion in tax revenue each year.” said Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09). “As a lifelong racing fan, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than bringing racing to our nation’s capital for the first time.”

“There's no better way to celebrate America's 250th birthday than with the roar of INDYCAR engines racing past our most iconic monuments. I'm excited for the nation to see the same passion for racing that has defined Indiana for generations on full display in Washington,” said Rep. Rudy Yakym (IN-02).

“Having the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C. to celebrate our country’s history is a true showing of a uniquely Hoosier tradition on the national stage,” said Rep. Marlin Stutzman (IN-03). “The nation will watch in awe as these incredible machines weave their way between the monuments and museums that highlight American historical triumphs. Thanks to President Trump for making this amazing spectacle possible.”

""The Indianapolis 500 is a staple of American culture and history. Every year, the best racers in the world circle the Brickyard at breathtaking speeds. Now, the Hoosier State will bring this iconic event to our nation’s capital with the Freedom 250 Grand Prix,” said Rep. Jim Baird (IN-04). “This momentous event is about becoming better, faster, and more resilient, much like our great nation. I’m ready to celebrate America's 250th at the racetrack in Washington and look forward to great chapters still to come.""

“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we are proud to showcase Indiana’s racing heritage - a testament to the innovation and spirit of freedom that define our Republic,” said Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05).

“Washington, D.C. and its visitors will finally get a first-hand experience of what Hoosiers have been celebrating for over 100 years, an INDYCAR racing extravaganza!”said Rep. Mark Messmer (IN-08). “I applaud President Trump and the America250 organizers for bringing the Freedom 250 Grand Prix to the local streets of our nation’s capital! Indiana is proud to share this beloved pastime with all Americans!”

""The Freedom 250 Grand Prix is a fitting tribute to Indiana’s proud legacy as the home of American motorsports. For generations, INDYCAR racing has showcased the innovation, grit, determination, and excellence that define our state and our nation,” said Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09). “As we commemorate America’s 250th birthday, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix honors that legacy while celebrating an exciting racing tradition that continues to inspire Americans and the world today.""",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stutzman-introduces-no-leniency-fentanyl-dealers-act,REP. STUTZMAN INTRODUCES NO LENIENCY FOR FENTANYL DEALERS ACT,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) introduced the No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act, the House companion to Senator John Kennedy’s (R-LA) Fairness in Fentanyl Sentencing Act. The legislation significantly lowers the quantity thresholds of fentanyl and fentanyl analogues required to trigger federal mandatory minimum prison sentences and strengthens enforcement tools to combat trafficking. It also updates sentencing guidelines and enhances drug interdiction efforts, particularly through the mail system.

Breitbart first covered this legislation in an exclusive article by Jasmyn Jordan.

Image

Along with being co-led by Senator Kennedy in the Senate, this legislation is also cosponsored by Fentanyl Prevention Caucus Co-Chairman Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41), Congressman Clay Fuller (GA-14), Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), Congressman Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02).

The members said the following:

“Hundreds of thousands of Americans die every year from fentanyl poisoning. I am proud to take up the No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act with Senator Kennedy so those peddling this lethal substance are punished with sentences commensurate with their actions,” said Rep. Stutzman. “The additional training and strengthened enforcement tools included in this bill will assist law enforcement and postal workers to identify fentanyl faster and keep Americans safer.”

“Fentanyl dealers are selling poison that is killing tens of thousands of Americans every year, and Washington’s sentencing laws still treat them with kid gloves. I’m proud to work with Congressman Stutzman to ensure these ghouls get the punishment they deserve,” Sen. Kennedy said.

“Fentanyl is the number one killer of Americans ages 18 to 45. That’s why I am proud to co-sponsor the No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act. For too long, the criminals who profit from poisoning our communities have escaped the full consequences of their actions. That must end,” Rep. Fuller said. “I find no greater joy than putting a fentanyl dealer behind bars. I have seen firsthand the devastation this poison has inflicted on my community in Northwest Georgia, and I will continue to fight here in Washington each and every day to ensure the people responsible are held accountable. If you choose to traffic fentanyl, know this: we will continue to pursue stronger laws, tougher penalties, and every available tool to stop you from destroying more American lives.”

“Fentanyl dealers are poisoning our communities, and I know families who have lost loved ones to fentanyl,” Rep. Bacon said. “Federal law must reflect the deadly reality of this crisis. The No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act strengthens penalties for those trafficking lethal amounts of fentanyl, updates sentencing thresholds and gives the Postal Service more tools to detect and interdict these drugs before they reach our streets. I’m grateful to work with Rep. Stutzman on this effort to hold traffickers accountable and protect American families.”

“It only takes two milligrams of fentanyl to kill a person. That’s just about three grains of table salt,” Rep. Bresnahan said. “Despite this, it takes 40 grams of fentanyl, or roughly three tablespoons of butter, to trigger the federal five-year mandatory minimum sentence for trafficking. That threshold simply does not reflect the deadly reality of this drug. The No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act closes the gap by lowering the amount of fentanyl needed to trigger tougher penalties, helping keep this deadly drug off our streets and out of our communities.”

The legislation has also received support from the National Sheriffs’ Association, the National District Attorneys Association, the Indiana Drug Enforcement Association, the National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies, the Indiana United Postmasters and Managers of America, the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, and the United Postmasters and Managers of America. They said the following:

“The lethality of fentanyl demands consequences that match the crime. This legislation closes a dangerous gap in federal law, strengthens enforcement, and helps ensure traffickers are held accountable before more lives are lost. Thank you, Congressman Stutzman, for introducing this much needed legislation,” said Sheriff Mike Chapman of Loudon County, Virginia, chairman of the NSA Government Affairs Committee.

“The No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act takes a critical step toward aligning federal law with the extreme danger fentanyl poses in our communities. Fentanyl is a top public safety concern across the country, and prosecutors need laws that reflect that reality. This bill targets the worst offenders and gives prosecutors the tools they need to disrupt trafficking networks and save lives,” said Nelson Bunn, executive director of the National District Attorneys Association.

“Fentanyl continues to devastate communities across Indiana and the United States, claiming lives at an alarming rate. Individuals take advantage of fentanyl’s low cost to produce as well as its high profit margin. They do so with little to no regard for the people it hurts the most. Those who traffic this deadly substance must be held fully accountable. The Indiana Drug Enforcement Association supports legislative efforts that ensure meaningful consequences for fentanyl dealers and strengthen the ability of law enforcement to protect the public,” said Chris Goergen, president of the Indiana Drug Enforcement Association.

“The National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies (NASDEA) fully supports the No Leniency for Fentanyl Dealers Act. Given fentanyl’s deadly impact on communities across the country, there must be a zero-tolerance approach toward those who manufacture or distribute this dangerous drug,” said Carlon Stapleton, the organization’s executive director.

“The United Postmasters and Managers of America recognizes the serious threat fentanyl poses to communities nationwide and supports legislation that gives the Postal Service the resources needed to help address that threat,” said Tony Leonardi, national president of United Postmasters and Managers of America.

Key Changes to Sentencing Thresholds & Screening Measures:",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=322,"Messmer Honors Evansville Veteran Ken Eppler, Displays Patriotic Artwork at U.S. Capitol",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) welcomed Evansville Army veteran and artist Ken Eppler and his family to the U.S. Capitol, where Eppler presented his painting, The Enduring Spirit, for display in the Congressman’s office in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary.

“Indiana’s 8th District is proud to call Ken Eppler one of our own, and I am honored to display his beautiful art piece – which I think reflects the very best of Hoosier and American patriotism,” said Rep. Mark Messmer.

Eppler served with distinction in the United States Army, earning both Airborne and Air Assault qualifications before serving with the 101st Airborne Division during the Gulf War. He later continued his service in the Indiana National Guard before pursuing a passion for patriotic artwork.

The Enduring Spirit depicts three colonial children standing beneath an America 250 flag while proudly displaying an original American flag, symbolizing the passing of America's founding ideals from one generation to the next. Eppler hopes his artwork inspires young Americans to appreciate the nation's history and develop a deeper love for their country.

To view Rep. Messmer’s floor speech in honor of Ken Eppler and The Enduring Spirit, click here.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=323,Messmer Celebrates Passage of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act in the House of Representatives,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Congressional Hypersonics Caucus, applauded passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the House of Representatives.

“My Republican colleagues and I are proud of our collaboration with President Trump to advance a national defense agenda that puts America first, and I am pleased the House has passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act,” said Rep. Messmer. “The passage of this historic investment in our nation’s warfighters strengthens our military, bolsters our national security, and helps ensure the United States maintains the strongest, most capable, and most lethal fighting force in the world. I urge our colleagues in the U.S. Senate to act swiftly and send this legislation to the President’s desk.”

BACKGROUND:

The FY27 National Defense Authorization Act includes provisions to revitalize the defense industrial base, restore critical weapons stockpiles, raise servicemember pay, strengthen missile and nuclear deterrence, accelerate the deployment of emerging technologies like hypersonics and autonomous systems, and improve accountability within the Department of War.

The legislation also expands domestic manufacturing capacity, strengthens supply chain security, supports workforce development initiatives, and reduces barriers for small businesses and innovative defense contractors.

The NDAA also contains several wins for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, including:

Critical funding for defense programs that will be researched, tested, and developed at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, such as $175 million for the Nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile;

Supports increased funding up to $1 billion for the MACH-TB program at Crane;

Advanced funding for Low-Cost Hypersonic Weapons;

A dedicated fund for the Golden Dome for America program, which will provide a foundation for a layered missile defense system; and

Accelerated production for more munitions and solid rocket motors.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting America’s warfighters in the House of Representatives, click here.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-condemns-rash-of-violence-against-nw-indiana-officers-shot-in-the-line-of-duty,Yakym Condemns Rash of Violence Against NW Indiana Officers Shot in the Line of Duty,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"“If You Target Our Officers, You Will Face Justice”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) took to the House floor to address a rash of violence against law enforcement in Northwest Indiana, where three officers have been shot in the line of duty in the past two months.

“If you target our officers, you will face justice,” said Rep. Yakym. “For too long, we have seen the officers who protect us demonized while excuses are made for the career criminals who terrorize our communities. It’s dangerous, and as we’ve seen recently, it has tragic consequences.”

“I am grateful these three survived,” Rep. Yakym continued. “But survival is not safety, and three shootings in two months cannot be ignored or normalized. It must be a wake-up call. Law and order does not sustain itself — it is upheld by the men and women who put on a badge and are willing to risk everything for strangers. That is what separates a functioning society from a lawless one, and it is why I, and the thousands of Hoosiers I represent, back the blue, and always will.”

Background

LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jon Samuelson was shot three times while helping a stranded driver on May 22, Indiana State Police Trooper Benjamin Beers was shot during a traffic stop on May 26, and Sergeant Justin Heflin was shot during a pursuit on July 10.

Watch full floor speech HERE.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-votes-to-ban-congressional-stock-trading,Yakym Votes to Ban Congressional Stock Trading,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) voted to ban congressional stock trading with passage of the Stop Insider Trading Act.

This legislation prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing publicly traded stocks. The Stop Insider Trading Act also requires public notice seven days before a lawmaker, spouse, or dependent child may sell a stock.

“When Hoosiers sent me to Congress, I promised I’d never use this seat to line my own pockets, and I’ve kept that promise every day since. Today’s vote is proof of that,” said Congressman Yakym. “This bill is common sense: it restores trust in Congress and makes clear no lawmaker should ever profit from information they get on the job.”

The Stop Insider Trading Act will:

Ban Members, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing a security issued by a publicly traded company.

Require Members of Congress to file a public notice at least seven days, but no more than 14 days, in advance of each intended sale with the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

Require the House Ethics Committee to issue a fee equal to $2,000 or 10% of the value of the covered investment – whichever is greater – plus the net gain realized from the sale, for violations of the law.

Read the full bill here.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=321,House Education and Workforce Committee Passes Messmer Deregulation Legislation,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Education and Workforce Committee advanced Rep. Mark Messmer's (R-IN) Heat Workforce Standards Act of 2025 (H.R. 6213) during a committee markup. The legislation repeals the Biden-Harris Administration's proposed federal heat standards, which impose burdensome, one-size-fits-all mandates, and unneeded and excessive penalties on American businesses and institutions.

“As a small business owner, I know firsthand that ineffectual government regulation makes it harder for employers to grow their business, create job opportunities, and invest in their workforce,”said Rep. Messmer. “The House Education and Workforce Committee's approval of my Heat Workforce Standards Act is an important step toward rolling back more of the unnecessary Biden-era regulations that hamper America’s development and expansion. I look forward to advancing this bill through the full House to continue reducing trivial red tape which is depressing the success of our great nation.”

BACKGROUND:

The Biden Administration’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) attempted at the last minute to fast-track a policy known as “The Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings.” In practice, the rule would have forced nearly every American business and institution to follow rigid, one-size-fits-all, federal workplace standards based on predetermined temperature thresholds, regardless of industry, climate, or existing safety protocols.

This terrible rule would create a one-size fits all regulatory approach for most of the American workforce that experience exposure to temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 15 minutes in any given hour. State governments already have the authority to establish occupational safety and health standards and are required to have their plans be “at least as effective” as Federal OSHA standards.

If it had been implemented, the Biden’s Heat Rule would:

Place redundant and egregious regulation requirements with little variance considered for industry-specific outdoor and indoor heat variables and differences in outdoor climates between all 50 states

Fail to recognize employers who already have heat injury prevention measures in place

Mandate federal intervention and costly fines if small businesses don’t match the federal criteria

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is working for small businesses in Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-applauds-house-passage-sunshine-protection-act,Houchin Applauds House Passage of Sunshine Protection Act,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 20, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09), a cosponsor of the Sunshine Protection Act, released the following statement after the House passed the legislation to make Daylight Saving Time permanent.

""Twice a year, families have to adjust their schedules, parents lose an hour of sleep, and businesses and schools deal with unnecessary disruption,” said Rep. Houchin. “For our farmers, an extra hour of evening daylight can also mean more time to work the fields. Making Daylight Saving Time permanent is a commonsense change that gives Americans more daylight in the evenings to spend time with family, enjoy the outdoors, support local businesses, and participate in youth sports and community activities. I'm proud to support this bipartisan effort to end the twice-yearly clock changes once and for all.""

The Sunshine Protection Act permanently establishes Daylight Saving Time nationwide by eliminating the twice-yearly time changes that have been required under current federal law. States that have previously exempted themselves from observing Daylight Saving Time would retain flexibility under the legislation.

The Sunshine Protection Act now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2581,"Congressman Baird Introduces Bill to Give States, Territories, and Tribes a Stronger Voice at EPA",2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) introduced H.R. 9663 the State Standing Committee Act. This bill establishes a State Standing Committee to advise the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The committee would give on-the-ground experience from each state and region counseling EPA decisions.

""The federal government always does better when local input is paramount in its decision making,"" said Congressman Baird. ""The EPA is no different, and this State Standing Committee can provide the key information, context, and expertise that only come from the states, territories, and tribes where much of the EPA’s work originates. I strongly urge my fellow committee members to pass the State Science Committee Act. Local experts should have input in the decisions directly affecting their own communities.""

The State Standing Committee (SSC) would serve as a complementary body to the Science Advisory Board (SAB), which is tasked with providing the EPA Administrator national-level scientific counsel. However, unlike SAB members, who are appointed based on a broad range of backgrounds and qualifications, SSC members would be employees of state, territorial, or tribal agencies. By creating a formal mechanism for submitting region-specific scientific and technical advice, the SSC would help ensure that local expertise is represented and more effectively integrates local perspectives into federal policymaking and regulatory actions. When appropriate, SSC members could convene working groups to address regional or multi-jurisdictional issues.

Additional Background:

The State Standing Committee would include one member from each state, federal district, federal territory, and federally recognized tribe to advise the EPA on agency decisions.

The bill also expands the Science Advisory Board's authority to receive matters not only from the EPA Administrator but also appropriate congressional committees.

Member Qualifications:

Reside within their respective state, federal district, federal territory, or federally recognized tribe.

Be employed by a government agency within their respective jurisdiction responsible for environmental protection, natural resources, agriculture, or regulatory compliance with environmental standards.

Possess relevant education, training, or professional experience to evaluate scientific or technical information.

To avoid conflicts of interest, State Standing Committee members may not simultaneously serve on or be employed by the EPA’s Science Advisory Board.",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-fallon-introduce-bill-to-end-federal-ban-on-firearms-in-federal-park-buildings,"Yakym, Fallon Introduce Bill to End Federal Ban on Firearms in Federal Park Buildings",2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) and Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04) introduced the Federal Lands Lawful Carry Act (H.R. 9719), legislation to end the blanket ban on carrying firearms inside buildings on federal lands.

Under current policy, law-abiding visitors must disarm before entering facilities such as visitor centers, ranger stations, and restrooms, even if they are allowed to carry in all other parts of the park.

“Hoosiers who can lawfully carry shouldn’t lose that right when they step into a federal park building,” said Rep. Yakym. “This legislation closes a loophole that turns responsible gun owners into accidental criminals and lets park rangers focus on managing our public lands instead of enforcing unnecessary restrictions.”

“Americans’ Second Amendment rights are under assault, and we in Congress must do all we can to ensure that they retain their God given right to bear arms,” said Rep. Fallon. “That includes the right to bear arms on Federal lands, including forests, National Parks, and lands held by the USACE. I have written Army Secretary Driscoll in the past requesting that he address this issue, and I am proud to join my colleague, Rep. Yakym on his bill that would codify Americans’ rights to carry on such lands.”

The bill is supported by Gun Owners of America (GOA), the National Rifle Association (NRA), and the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF).

“When law-abiding Americans are enjoying the natural beauty of our country, they shouldn’t have to worry about crossing arbitrary boundaries and losing their God-given right to protect themselves and their families,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of NRA-ILA. “This legislation would greatly reduce the confusion surrounding the patchwork of where Americans can exercise their Right to Keep and Bear Arms on federally managed land. On behalf of our millions of members and gun owners nationwide, we would like to thank Representatives Yakym and Fallon for their leadership on this important issue.”

“GOA worked with Congress to restore the right to carry firearms in national parks in 2009. However, using the restroom or entering an information center to ask a question remains an unconstitutional ‘crime’ — entering a federal building with a firearm. Outdoorsmen and other public land users cannot be denied the free exercise of their Second Amendment rights on public land,” said Aidan Johnston, Director of Federal Affairs at GOA. “Gun Owners of America is proud to endorse Representatives Rudy Yakym’s and Pat Fallon’s Federal Lands Lawful Carry Act, which would restore the right to bear arms on our public lands and buildings run by the Department of the Interior, Department of War, and Department of Agriculture.”

Background:

Visitors to most federal lands may currently carry firearms in accordance with the laws of the state where the land is located. However, a blanket federal restriction prohibits carrying firearms inside buildings on that same land, including visitor centers, ranger stations, and restrooms. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) land goes further, banning firearms both on the land itself and within its buildings.

The policy is currently being challenged in federal court. Last month, the Second Amendment Foundation and Firearms Policy Coalition, joined by a Texas gun owner, filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, contesting the ban on carrying firearms inside National Park Service buildings such as gift shops, bathrooms, and museums.

What the Federal Lands Lawful Carry Act Does:

Expands Second Amendment Rights

Extends constitutional carry to federal park buildings and USACE land in the 29 states that recognize it, including Indiana.

Lifts the blanket firearm ban on federal park buildings and USACE land in all other states.

Harmonizes firearm regulations between federal park buildings and surrounding federal land. View the full list of agencies HERE.

Prevents Incidental Violations

Eliminates the need for visitors to navigate conflicting firearm rules within the same area.

Allows park rangers to focus on park management rather than enforcing firearm restrictions.

Respects States’ Rights

Preserves state law authority, including in more restrictive states.

Establishes a framework for future alignment as state laws evolve.

Read the full bill HERE.",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=317,Messmer Applauds Passage of the Sunshine Protection Act in the House of Representatives,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) voted in support of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, in the House of Representatives, to make Daylight Saving Time permanent and end the twice-yearly practice Americans endure of changing the clocks backwards and forwards.

“Hoosiers are tired of this needless activity,” said Rep. Messmer. “Making Daylight Saving Time permanent is long overdue and a needed relief from an outdated practice that no longer serves the needs of our modern economy. I have heard from the citizens of Indiana’s 8th District, and I am proud to support the Sunshine Protection Act.”

The Sunshine Protection Act would establish permanent Daylight Saving Time nationwide, eliminating the need to “spring forward” and “fall back” each year. By ending the biannual time change, the legislation aims to provide greater consistency for families, businesses, schools, and commuters while reducing the disruptions associated with changing the clocks. This bill has the support of the American Farm Bureau.

To learn more about Rep. Messmer's work in Congress, click here.

###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-applauds-historic-25-million-build-grant-ports-indiana-jeffersonville,Houchin Applauds Historic $25 Million BUILD Grant for Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville,2026-07-14,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) applauds the announcement of the $25 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded to Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville.

This grant is the largest federal grant in Ports of Indiana’s 65-year history and will support a $32 million expansion project that will enhance the port’s capabilities, strengthen Indiana’s supply chain infrastructure, and improve freight movement across the Midwest.

“Strong infrastructure is essential to a strong economy, and this BUILD grant is an important investment in Indiana’s future,” said Rep. Houchin. “The improvements at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville will increase efficiency, strengthen supply chains, and enhance the port’s ability to serve businesses throughout our state and the Midwest. I was proud to advocate for this project and congratulate everyone whose hard work made this achievement possible.”

The expansion will include a new 300-ton crane system, a 6,500-square-foot barge dock, and a 22,000- square-foot warehouse, more than doubling the Indiana-Jeffersonville port’s general cargo capacity.

Once complete, the project will expand the port’s multimodal freight capabilities, strengthen supply chains, improve efficiency, and support Indiana’s manufacturing economy.",1,2026-07-15T07:12:08Z,2026-07-15T07:13:45Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-introduces-legislation-streamline-advanced-nuclear-energy,Spartz Introduces Legislation to Streamline Advanced Nuclear Energy,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) introduced the Nuclear Regulatory Modernization Act of 2026, legislation to accelerate the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) and strengthen America’s energy security.

The bill would streamline the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s licensing process by eliminating obsolete mandatory hearings. It would also speed the domestic deployment of uranium enrichment facilities to reduce America’s reliance on imports from countries such as Russia.

“Energy security is national security - and international security. Advanced nuclear reactors can lower energy costs, strengthen the stability of the grid, and provide the reliable, clean electricity needed to power the future of innovation and economic growth. America must be the leader in nuclear innovation,” Spartz said.",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-announces-5-million-infrastructure-grant-whiting,Mrvan Announces $5 Million Infrastructure Grant for Whiting,2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan announced a federal grant award for the City of Whiting under the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant program.

The at-grade railroad crossings have long created a serious barrier between the City of Whiting and its Lake Michigan shoreline, impacting emergency response times and limiting connectivity between the community’s downtown and waterfront assets. The City of Whiting will receive $5,163,200 to advance the Rail Corridor Overpass Project that aims to improve public safety by supporting more reliable emergency access, enhancing mobility for residents and visitors, and strengthening the connection between Whiting’s neighborhoods, downtown, and lakefront.

Congressman Mrvan stated, “This funding will address a critical public safety need that has existed in the City of Whiting for far too long. I congratulate Mayor Spebar, the Common Council, and all of the local leaders whose persistence and advocacy helped secure this significant federal investment. I am proud to support this investment, which will not only improve the quality of life and public safety for residents, but also help unlock new opportunities for economic development and tourism.”

City of Whiting Mayor Steve Spebar stated, “The awarding to the City of Whiting of DOT’s Build Grant will allow us to complete engineering work on our overpass project. The completion time for engineering work is projected at approximately the end of next year. This award is a significant step in making an overpass a reality in the City of Whiting. I want to thank Congressman Mrvan for his support in securing this grant.""

For additional information on the Department of Transportation’s BUILD Grant program, click here.

###",1,2026-07-10T08:20:04Z,2026-07-10T08:21:18Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-sponsors-bipartisan-bill-honor-thomas-paine,Spartz Sponsors Bipartisan Bill to Honor Thomas Paine,2026-07-08,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05), with Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), introduced bipartisan legislation to direct the U.S. Department of the Interior to place the Thomas Paine Memorial in “Area 1” of the National Mall, as recommended by the National Capital Memorial Advisory Commission (NCMAC).

“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we remember Thomas Paine’s timeless words: ‘These are the times that try men’s souls,’ which helped rally General Washington’s army before the crossing of the Delaware - a pivotal moment that changed the course of the Revolution,” Spartz said. “Their sacrifices should remind us of the price so many Americans paid to secure our freedom - a precious gift we have a solemn duty to preserve for future generations.”

“Tom Paine, the extraordinary and indispensable patriot of the American Revolution and spellbinding exponent of democratic freedom, catalyzed our emerging nation to rise up against tyranny, monarchy and taxation without representation to conceive of a new nation based on religious liberty, freedom of thought, and democratic self-governance in service of the common good,” said Rep. Raskin. “On the 250th anniversary of the publication of Common Sense, our legislation finally brings the great Tom Paine from the attics and libraries of history to a place of shining prominence on our National Mall, establishing the dazzling national memorial he deserves.”

“Thomas Paine gave this country its argument for independence and then took up a musket in the Continental Army to help win it,” said Margaret Downey, President, Thomas Paine Memorial Association. “He sold half a million copies of 'Common Sense' when the nation was still an idea, and George Washington had 'The American Crisis' read aloud to the troops before they crossed the Delaware. Paine opposed slavery, called for the education of every child, and imagined a brotherhood of free nations long before the world was ready for it. Paine was a hero to Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. For 250 years the capital he helped bring into being has had no memorial to him. We intend to correct that, and Area 1 is exactly where he belongs.”

Rep. Spartz also sponsored the 2023 law that authorized the Thomas Paine Memorial Association to establish a memorial in Washington D.C.. The Paine memorial is fully funded with private contributions from admirers of Paine and his work. Paine is best known for writing the pamphlet Common Sense in 1776 which galvanized support for the American revolution.",1,2026-07-09T08:24:13Z,2026-07-09T08:26:05Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-marks-one-year-anniversary-of-working-families-tax-cuts-largest-tax-cut-in-american-history,"Yakym Marks One-Year Anniversary of Working Families Tax Cuts, Largest Tax Cut in American History",2026-07-04,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) recognized one year since the Working Families Tax Cuts became law, the largest tax cut in American history for hardworking families.

“As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I had a front-row seat to building this bill. My job, every step of the way, was making sure Hoosiers weren’t an afterthought,” Rep. Yakym said. “When I’m out at the grocery store, walking a factory floor in Nappanee, or shaking hands after church, people stop me and tell me their refund was bigger this year, that they caught up on a bill, that they finally had a little left over. These aren’t data points. These are Hoosiers doing everything they can to provide for their families, and they deserve to feel the relief.”

The Working Families Tax Cuts Act put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Hoosiers by including:

• Prevented the largest tax hike in American history: By making the 2017 tax cuts permanent and locking in the doubled standard deduction, a family of four now pays zero federal income tax on their first $35,900 of earnings.

• No tax on tips: Providing relief for service workers who depend on gratuity. No tax on overtime: More than 25 million workers nationwide have claimed the provision, giving factory workers, linemen, police officers, nurses, and more a new break on their hard-earned extra hours.

• A $2,220 Child Tax Credit: More than 34 million families have claimed the provision.

• A bigger refund: The average tax refund is up 11% this year. 97% of filers got a tax cut, and 96% of those filers earn under $200,000.

This law also gave Indiana manufacturers the certainty they needed to invest, expand, and hire by:

• Allowing immediate expensing for research and development.

• Allowing full expensing for new capital investments.

• Allowing full expensing for the construction of new factories.

• Delivering more tax relief to the manufacturing industry than any other sector, according to the Tax Foundation.",1,2026-07-05T07:55:27Z,2026-07-05T07:56:42Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-honors-2026-nominees-accepted-us-military-service-academies,Mrvan Honors 2026 Nominees Accepted into the U.S. Military Service Academies,2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Rep. Frank J. Mrvan is pleased to announce the nominees who have accepted their appointments to the U.S. Military Service Academies from Indiana’s First Congressional District.

Military Service Academy Nominations are recommended to Congressman Mrvan by his Military Service Academy Board, which includes veterans, community leaders, and active duty and retired servicemembers from across Indiana’s First Congressional District.

Members of Congress may nominate candidates for appointment to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy (USMA), West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA), Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), Kings Point, NY. The fifth service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, CT, does not require a congressional nomination for appointment.

Congressman Mrvan stated, “I am honored to nominate these brave and selfless individuals from Indiana’s First Congressional District to join the United States Military Service Academies. Thank you to all the members of the Military Service Academy Board for their participation in this process, and I encourage all students who are interested in applying in the future to contact my office for additional information.”

The following students received a nomination from Congressman Mrvan and have accepted their appointment:

Cameron Reddick, Lake Central High School - U.S. Air Force Academy

Ena Gilliana, Valparaiso High School - U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Grant Best, U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School - U.S. Air Force Academy

Hayden Mancilla, Hobart High School - U.S. Naval Academy

Jack O'Shea, Marian Catholic High School - U.S. Naval Academy

Reagan Jackson, Culver Academy - U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School

Talina Cisnero, U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School - U.S. Naval Academy

Students in Indiana’s First Congressional District who are interested in seeking a nomination to the U.S. Military Service Academies can find more information on Congressman Mrvan’s website at https://mrvan.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations or by calling (219) 795-1844.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-carson-submits-federal-inquiry-aesblackrock-acquisition,Congressman Carson Submits Federal Inquiry on AES/BlackRock Acquisition,2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,IN,André Carson,C001072,carson.house.gov,carson,https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"July 1, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) submitted a formal inquiry to the Federal Regulatory Commission on BlackRock’s proposed acquisition of AES Corporation.

In the letter, Congressman Carson expressed concern that this transaction will raise customer rates, despite claims to the contrary. Congressman Carson cited an example in Michigan, where customers saw four successive rate increases following a private acquisition in 2014. A Minnesota judge later cited this deal to reject a proposal by the same BlackRock affiliate seeking to acquire AES Indiana.

Congressman Carson’s letter also expressed the risk of AI data centers passing on costs to customers. Congressman Carson recently introduced the AI Data Center Moratorium Act to enact a common-sense pause on data centers until safeguards can be put in place for customers, as well as a bill requiring additional transparency with data center developments. Congressman Carson has also spoken out against AES Indiana’s recently approved rate hike, which is set to take effect next year.

The full text of the letter can be found below and attached:

Dear Secretary Reese:

I am writing to formally express my deep concerns regarding the proposed acquisition of The AES Corporation by a consortium led by BlackRock through its affiliate, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and EQT Infrastructure. As the Representative for Indiana’s 7th Congressional District, I write with serious concern about the implications this transaction may have for the families, working people, and ratepayers I represent.

While the applicants claim this transaction will not impact customer rates, I remain unconvinced. Essential utility services, such as those provided by AES Indiana, are the lifeblood of our local economy and the foundation of household stability for my constituents. The transfer of such critical public infrastructure to private equity control warrants the Commission’s most searching scrutiny.

My primary concern is that the profit-maximizing mandates inherent to private equity and largescale investment firms will inevitably prioritize shareholder returns over the affordability, reliability, and environmental well-being of our communities. We have seen time and again that when essential services are treated as investment assets, the incentive structure shifts toward aggressive cost-cutting and rate increases that place a disproportionate burden on working families. BlackRock and EQT Infrastructure operate on investment timelines that are fundamentally misaligned with the decades-long capital stewardship that electric utility infrastructure demands. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Power Company saw four successive rate increases following its acquisition by private equity in 2014, illustrating precisely this dynamic. A Minnesota administrative law judge cited this deal as grounds to reject a nearly identical proposal by Global Infrastructure Partners, the same BlackRock affiliate seeking to acquire AES Indiana.

Furthermore, I am deeply alarmed by the potential for this acquisition to be driven by the surging demand for energy to power artificial intelligence and data centers. There is a profound risk that the massive costs associated with grid upgrades to support these facilities will be passed on to residential ratepayers, rather than the corporations driving the demand.

Additionally, I am concerned that the pressure to meet the rapidly growing energy requirements of these data centers will lead to an over-reliance on older, dirtier power generation, exacerbating air pollution and degrading the quality of life for communities already burdened by industrial emissions. This is not a hypothetical concern: Indiana already relies heavily on fossil fuel generation, and the communities in my district have long lived with the health consequences of that reality.

I urge the Commission to conduct the most rigorous and transparent review possible of this acquisition. Specifically, I request that the Commission:

Scrutinize the impact on long-term rate affordability: Ensure that the “public interest” standard under the Federal Power Act is rigorously applied to protect consumers from potential future rate hikes, and that residential ratepayers are not forced to subsidize the infrastructure demands of massive data center developments.

Evaluate the negative impacts of private ownership on residents: Examine whether the long-term capital requirements of essential utility infrastructure and the imperative to transition toward cleaner energy can be reliably met by firms with investment cycles shorter than the operational life of these assets.

Assess environmental and community health impacts: Thoroughly investigate how this change in ownership might alter generation priorities, specifically ensuring that the drive for rapid power expansion does not lead to increased air pollution and negative health outcomes for residents.

Prioritize public transparency: Maintain an open and accessible record for public comment, ensuring that the voices of the ratepayers who are most affected by this transaction are fully considered before any regulatory approval is granted.

My constituents rely on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to protect their interests and serve as a check against corporate, for-profit interests that would sacrifice their economic security and environmental well-being. I ask that you hold this transaction to the highest standard of accountability and condition or deny approval if the record fails to demonstrate that this transaction affirmatively serves the public interest—not merely avoids obvious harm to it.

Thank you for your time and your attention to this critical matter.

Sincerely,

Congressman André Carson

###

Issues:EnergyEconomy",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-davis-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-eliminate-taxes-on-boat-loans,"Yakym, Davis Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Eliminate Taxes on Boat Loans",2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) and Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) introduced the Boat Loan Interest Deduction Act of 2026 (H.R. 9532), bipartisan legislation that would extend the Working Families Tax Cut’s No Tax on Auto Loans provision to boats.

“There’s nothing more American than loading up the family and heading out on the lake for a summer afternoon. It’s an important investment, and it should be treated like one,” Rep. Yakym said. “As the congressman representing a district that builds some of the finest boats in the country, I hear from manufacturers and families alike about what this relief would mean. This bill is simple: if you’re paying interest on a boat loan, you should be able to deduct it.”

“As co-chair of the Congressional Boating Caucus, I am proud to stand with the communities, workers, and businesses that power America’s boating industry. From the Outer Banks to the Albemarle Sound and along the rivers and coastal waterways of eastern North Carolina, boating is a way of life that fuels our economy, supports marinas, boat dealers, marine manufacturers, and charter businesses, and creates opportunities for thousands of hardworking North Carolinians whose livelihoods depend on the water,“ Rep. Davis said. “As our nation celebrates 250 years of freedom and opportunity, we have a responsibility to stand behind American craftsmanship and the skilled workers who build the boats that carry our traditions forward. I am proud to support legislation that keeps America’s boatbuilding industry competitive, strengthens American manufacturing, protects good-paying jobs, and preserves the coastal way of life that defines eastern North Carolina.”

This legislation has gained the support of several members of the boating and manufacturing industries:

“Eliminating taxes on boats is a win for American families, jobs, and manufacturing,” said Smoker Craft, Inc. “As one of the oldest family-owned and operated boat manufacturers in the country, Smoker Craft, Inc. has always focused on value and accessibility. Lowering the cost of ownership puts more people on the water, strengthens our industry, and supports the communities that depend on it. We’re grateful to Representative Rudy Yakym for his leadership in advancing this important effort.”

“On behalf of Brunswick Corporation, America’s Marine Company and the world’s largest manufacturer of recreational marine products, we applaud Congressman Rudy Yakym and Congressman Don Davis’ bipartisan bill on behalf of American consumers,” said Ryan Gwillim, Chief Financial Officer of Brunswick Corporation. “Brunswick has worked closely with Congressman Yakym and Congressman Davis to advance policies that support access to recreation and strengthen U.S. manufacturing. Boating is an important part of how many middle-class families connect with the outdoors, and America’s waterways are one of our nation’s greatest assets. This legislation helps ensure that more families can continue to participate in the boating lifestyle for years to come.”

“The bipartisan Boat Loan Interest Deduction Act recognizes recreational boating as a uniquely American industry that supports thousands of small businesses, strengthens domestic manufacturing, and creates jobs in communities across the country,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO of NMMA. “With 95 percent of boats sold in the U.S. built here at home – and 93 percent of boat builders classified as small businesses – this commonsense legislation will help make boating more affordable and accessible for American families. As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, this bill will help more Americans experience the freedom and traditions of spending time on our waterways. We thank Representatives Yakym and Don Davis for their bipartisan commitment to ensuring more Americans can access and enjoy our nation’s waterways.”

“H.R. 1 was a historic investment in manufacturing, empowering manufacturers across the country to invest, innovate, and create jobs,” said Charles Crain, Managing Vice President of Policy, National Association of Manufacturers. “Expanding the law’s pro-growth tax provisions to a broader range of manufacturers will help ensure continued U.S. manufacturing leadership across industries. We are grateful to Congressman Yakym for his continued efforts towards a competitive tax code that supports making things in America.”

Background:

The bill allows Americans to deduct up to $10,000 in interest relating to loans for qualifying boats. Qualifying boats must have final assembly in the U.S. The deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $100,000 ($200,000 for joint filers).

Indiana’s Second Congressional District is a major hub for the American boating industry, centered in Elkhart and Kosciusko counties, which produce pontoon, fishing, and family deck boats.

An estimated 85 million Americans go boating each year on roughly 11 million registered boats nationwide. Restoring the interest deduction would lower the cost of ownership for families across the country.",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-introduces-data-center-moratorium-bill,Carson Introduces Data Center Moratorium Bill,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,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) joined his colleagues – led by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) — in introducing the AI Data Center Moratorium Act. This bill would enact a reasonable pause on the development of new data centers until safeguards are put in place to protect Americans.

“Data centers cannot come at a cost to American families, who are already facing high grocery, gas, and housing costs,” said Congressman Carson. “Data centers have the potential to create good union jobs, but they also have the potential to eliminate jobs. We need to make sure workers, families, and neighborhoods aren’t forced to pay the burden of this rapidly rising technology without guardrails. Our bill would enact a pause until we can guarantee common sense protections.”

Congressman Carson has also introduced the AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act of 2026 to require data centers to be transparent and to make neighborhood input central to any new development.”

“AI and robotics are creating the most sweeping technological revolution in the history of humanity. The scale, scope and speed of that change is unprecedented. Congress is way behind where it should be in understanding the nature of this revolution and its impacts,” Sanders said. “Bottom line: We cannot sit back and allow a handful of billionaire Big Tech oligarchs to make decisions that will reshape our economy, our democracy and the future of humanity. We need serious public debate and democratic oversight over this enormously consequential issue. The time for action is now. We need a federal moratorium on AI data centers.”

“We have seen ICE partner with AI companies to surveil Americans, social media users employ AI bots to create sexually explicit deepfakes of women and children, and data center construction inflate electric bills in communities across the country. And all of this harm has occurred because of the absence of federal legislation to regulate AI,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “Congress has a moral obligation to stand with the American people and stop the expansion of these data centers until we have a framework to adequately address the existential harm AI poses to our society. We must choose humanity over profit.”

The AI Data Center Moratorium Act of 2026 would institute an immediate federal moratorium on AI data centers until strong national safeguards are in place to ensure that:

• AI is safe and effective — preventing executives in the AI industry from releasing harmful products into the world that threaten the health and well-being of working families, our privacy and civil rights and the future of humanity.

• The economic gains of AI and robotics will benefit workers, not just the wealthy owners of Big Tech.

• AI does not increase electricity or utility prices, harm communities or destroy the environment.

Additionally, this bill will stop a global race to see which country is the first to eliminate hundreds of millions of jobs, or the first to build an AI that destroys the planet. It would ban U.S. exports of AI computing infrastructure to countries that do not have safeguards in place, guaranteeing AI is safe and effective, workers are protected, and AI does not harm the environment.

In 2023, more than 1,000 industry leaders and scientists, including Elon Musk, Yoshua Bengio and Stuart Russell, called for AI labs to “immediately pause for at least 6 months” and, if such a pause were not enacted, called on governments to “step in and institute a moratorium.” In December, Elon Musk, who leads xAI, said he had “a lot of AI nightmares” and would “certainly slow down AI and robotics” if he could. In January, Demis Hassabis, the head of Google’s Deepmind, said he would support an AI pause if he knew other countries and companies also paused development. In February, Dario Amodei, the head of Anthropic, said he was “absolutely in favor of trying” to slow down AI development if other countries also slowed down.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-torres-introduce-bipartisan-outcomes-based-financing-students-act,"Houchin, Torres Introduce Bipartisan Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act",2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) and Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15) recently introduced the bipartisan Outcomes-Based Financing (OBF) for Students Act. Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Chris Coons (D-DE). This bill establishes the first comprehensive federal framework for outcomes-based financing products that help students access workforce training and postsecondary education while providing strong consumer protections.

The legislation creates clear federal standards for outcomes-based financing products, requiring disclosures, affordability protections, and transparency while supporting innovative financing models that expand access to education and workforce development opportunities.

“Too often, state higher education programs leave students in debt for degrees that have little value in the market. That’s why I’m co-leading the bipartisan Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act. It ties a portion of state higher education funding to how well schools perform on degree completion, retention, and workforce placement. This means schools will have to show that the programs they offer are worth the price of admission. By doing this, we can help more Americans get the skills they need for jobs that are in demand.” – Rep. Houchin

""Every American deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education or workforce training without being forced into a one-size-fits-all financing model. The Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act establishes a strong federal consumer protection framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and affordability while encouraging responsible innovation in education financing. By setting clear rules of the road, strengthening borrower protections, and expanding access to high-quality education and skills training, this bipartisan legislation will help more Americans invest in their future, build rewarding careers, and contribute to a stronger, more competitive economy."" – Rep. Torres

The Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act provides consumer protections by establishing clear disclosure requirements, affordability standards, payment limitations, and other safeguards for outcomes-based financing products while creating regulatory certainty for providers and students alike. The legislation also updates federal law to recognize these financing models and support their responsible use in workforce training and higher education.

The legislation is supported by Jobs for the Future, Better Future Forward, Western Governors University, Social Finance, Progressive Policy Institute, The Forward Fund, Student Freedom Initiative, and Pursuit.

“As federal borrowing limits tighten under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, more students will face financing gaps and be left with few options but private loans that often charge higher rates to students from low-income backgrounds and lack meaningful protections for these borrowers. JFF applauds Senators Young and Warner and Representatives Houchin and Torres for introducing the Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act of 2026, which would expand access to more flexible, student-centered financing options while protecting students from bad actors. This legislation recognizes both the promise and the risks of outcomes-based financing and takes a thoughtful approach by clarifying existing regulatory guardrails and establishing strong consumer protections tailored to these models. By doing so, it creates a pathway for responsible innovation that can improve affordability, accountability, and access across higher education and workforce training that is essential for economic advancement.” – Maria Flynn, President and CEO of Jobs for the Future

“Well-designed outcomes-based financing (OBF) programs open up support for students underserved in the current system, and they do so in a way that is affordable and aligned to students’ educational and career success. To ensure all students are protected and can benefit from these options, we need a strong, well-designed consumer protection framework built around the risk-sharing nature of OBF programs. This bipartisan legislation is a strong step forward in that regard, and we commend Sens. Young and Warner and Reps. Houchin and Torres for their work on it.” – Kevin James, CEO of Better Future Forward

“This bipartisan bill would ensure that learners are not hit with an unexpected tax bill if their post-training earnings aren’t high enough to trigger a repayment obligation. Lower-income individuals who have complied fully with their repayment agreements should not be penalized simply because the program’s protections worked as intended. This common-sense protection is essential to realizing the risk-sharing promise of outcomes-based financing to align funding with learners’ job success.” – Tracy Palandjian, CEO & Co-Founder of Social Finance

“PPI has long supported bold and innovative models for higher education financing, and the Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act of 2026 is exactly that. This approach allows borrowers of all backgrounds to finance their own postsecondary education or training with the future earnings that investment enables, while also improving borrower protections in the private market and supporting only the programs that lead to improved career outcomes and increased earnings.” – Michael Pearson, Director of Workforce Development Policy for the Progressive Policy Institute

“Students should not have to take on unaffordable risk to access education that leads to opportunity. Outcomes-based financing represents a student-first approach—one that defers repayment until success is realized and aligns financing with real labor market outcomes. We commend this bipartisan effort to bring clarity, consistency, and consumer protections to this emerging space, and to create a pathway for responsible innovation that expands access to economic mobility.” – Susie Sewell, Director of Strategy and Policy at The Forward Fund

“We applaud Senators Warner and Young, alongside Representatives Houchin and Torres for championing the Outcomes-Based Financing for Students Act of 2026 to improve outcomes-based financing programs. By establishing clear guidelines for lenders and strong protections for students, this bipartisan legislation aligns with Student Freedom Initiative’s mission to expand access to education and help eliminate the structural and societal barriers that contribute to the wealth gap in the United States.” – Keith Shoates, President and CEO of Student Freedom Initiative",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=316,Messmer Condemns Chemical Abortion Crisis at Republican Study Committee Roundtable,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) participated in a Republican Study Committee (RSC) roundtable hosted by Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-SC) focused on the growing chemical abortion crisis, the impact of abortion-inducing drugs, and legislative efforts to strengthen protections for women and improve accountability.

“No woman should ever be subjected to a forced abortion, and those who commit these acts should face the full force of the law,” said Rep. Messmer. “As chemical abortion drugs become more widely available, Congress has a responsibility to ensure strong protections are in place to safeguard women and hold bad actors accountable. I am proud to support legislation that addresses these serious crimes and helps prevent future tragedies.”

During the discussion, Rep. Messmer highlighted his Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act, legislation he introduced to establish federal penalties for the non-consensual administration of abortion-inducing drugs and hold accountable those who facilitate these acts.

To learn more about Rep. Messmer's work to protect all life in Congress, click here.

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-honors-laporte-county-deputy-shot-in-the-line-of-duty,Yakym Honors LaPorte County Deputy Shot in the Line of Duty,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) took to the House floor to honor LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jon Samuelson, who was shot three times in the line of duty after stopping to help a stranded motorist on May 22nd.

“Deputy Jon Samuelson is a hero. Without hesitation, he put his life on the line to protect someone else’s. There is a profound and dangerous line that separates chaos from civilization — most of us will never see it. Men and women like Deputy Samuelson stand on it every single day so the rest of us don’t have to,” said Rep. Yakym. “Sallyann and I, and Hoosiers across Indiana, stand with his wife, Quinn, and the entire Samuelson family as Jon recovers. May God continue to place His healing hand on him.”

Rep. Yakym delivered floor remarks honoring Deputy Samuelson. Watch HERE.",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-scholten-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-in-support-of-national-boys-girls-club-week-2,"Yakym, Scholten Introduce Bipartisan Resolution in Support of “National Boys & Girls Club Week”",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02) and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate June 22-26 “National Boys & Girls Club Week.”

“Every kid deserves a real shot at a great future, and Boys & Girls Clubs deliver that every single day through afterschool and summer programs. As former Board Chair for the Boys & Girls Club of St. Joseph County, I saw firsthand the impact these clubs have on young people across Indiana,” said Rep. Yakym. “I’m proud to partner with Rep. Scholten on this resolution to make sure every child across the Hoosier State and this country gets that shot.”

Rep. Yakym delivered floor remarks on the resolution. Watch HERE:

“Investing in our kids is investing in the future of our country, and Boys and Girls Clubs provide young people with important spaces to learn, grow, and reach their full potential,” said Rep. Scholten. “I’m proud to introduce this resolution honoring National Boys and Girls Club Week and these organizations’ incredible benefit to communities across West Michigan and the country.”

“National Boys & Girls Club Week celebrates the young people whose potential inspires us all, including the thousands of Club professionals who help them realize it every day,” said Jim Clark, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “At Boys & Girls Clubs, we know that young people thrive when they have support, opportunities, and trusted relationships, and entire communities benefit. We thank Representatives Rudy Yakym and Hillary Scholten for their continued partnership and steadfast support of Club kids, and for introducing this resolution recognizing the life-changing impact of Boys & Girls Clubs across America.”",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://carson.house.gov/media/press-releases/carson-amendments-advance-humanitarian-and-economic-priorities,Carson Amendments Advance Humanitarian and Economic Priorities,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,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) offered seven amendments to the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) funding bill in the U.S. House of Representatives for Fiscal Year 2027. The Carson amendments advance key humanitarian priorities to support the world’s most vulnerable populations – including communities across Africa and Palestinian refugees – while strengthening U.S. supply chains and addressing national security concerns.

“This administration’s USAID cuts have already contributed to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths globally,” said Congressman Carson. “We need to restore and strengthen our humanitarian presence because it’s the right thing to do, and it’s important for our global economy. In today’s interconnected world, what happens abroad – whether it be the spread of disease or supply chain disruptions – impacts Hoosiers here at home.”

The following Carson amendments will be considered by the House Rules Committee today:

Building Opportunity Across Africa — African Development Bank Funding

This amendment restores $22.232 million in funding for the African Development Bank to help build infrastructure, support economic growth, and lift people across Africa out of poverty. It also strengthens U.S. partnerships across the continent and gives African countries a better alternative to predatory loans from China.

Supporting the World’s Poorest Countries — World Bank Funding

This amendment restores $25 million for the World Bank’s International Development Association, which supports some of the world’s poorest countries. These funds help communities meet basic needs, grow their economies, and avoid being pushed deeper into debt by China.

Supporting Internet Freedom — International Communications Activities Funding

This amendment increases funding by $4 million for satellite transmissions and internet freedom programs. It will help people living under extreme censorship get access to independent news and stay connected to the outside world.

Securing Critical Supply Chains — Economic Resilience Initiative Support

This amendment expresses support for funding the Economic Resilience Initiative at $170 million, which would help partner countries build stronger supply chains and ensure the United States has access to the critical minerals we need for manufacturing and national security. It will help countries resist economic pressure from China, while also making America less dependent on foreign supply chain vulnerabilities.

Protecting Civilians Through UN Peacekeeping — United Nations Peacekeeping Funding

This amendment restores $50 million in funding for UN peacekeeping. This funding helps UN peacekeepers protect civilians, reduce violence, and keep conflicts from turning into larger crises that could cost more lives and demand a larger U.S. response.

Restoring Funding for UNRWA

This amendment removes strict funding limits on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to ensure humanitarian assistance can reach Palestinians most effectively. By keeping food, healthcare, and schools funded, the change aims to sustain essential services and prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions.

Safeguarding Funding for the United Nations

This amendment removes a section of the bill that threatens to cut off all U.S. funding to the United Nations over unreasonable staffing rules. Removing this section keeps vital diplomatic channels open and prevents sudden, widespread disruption to global humanitarian programs.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-statement-congressional-steel-caucus-hearing-state-steel-industry-1,Mrvan Statement at Congressional Steel Caucus Hearing on the State of the Steel Industry,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Below, please find the opening statement as prepared for delivery from Congressman Frank J. Mrvan, Vice Chairman of the Congressional Steel Caucus, during today’s hearing on the State of the Steel Industry.

A video of the hearing is available here, and below are the statements from the witnesses.

Opening statement from Congressman Mrvan:

“Good morning and thank you to all of the witnesses for travelling to be here today. I would especially like to welcome Roxanne Brown, who is testifying in front of this Caucus for the first time in her new capacity as the International President of USW. And, of course, thank you to my friend, Chairman Crawford, for his continued leadership in advocating for the American steel industry and its workforce.

“Every year, this hearing yields important discussion about how Congress can engage to address the ongoing challenges of the domestic steel industry. And there is no better time to be having this conversation than right now in anticipation of the renegotiation of major labor contracts, new investments in facilities across the country, the reauthorization of federal surface transportation dollars, and the pending review of USMCA.

“Preserving the strength of American steel manufacturing is deeply personal for me and the community I represent. As I have mentioned in front of this Caucus many times before, my grandfather was an immigrant from Czechoslovakia and a steelworker who spent 53 years in the mills in East Chicago. In Northwest Indiana, the steel industry is the economic engine that supports our entire region, and people depend on these jobs to support their families, secure their retirement, and maintain their healthcare.

“The hardworking men and women at the heart of this industry deserve fair wages, safe working conditions, and continued investment into the long-term health of legacy facilities that helped build this country. In Northwest Indiana, the steel industry directly employs about 13,000 workers, many of whom will be bargaining new contracts in the coming months. As the witnesses in front of me look towards those negotiations, it is vital that they find a solution that rewards American workers and maintains the health and strength of the industry.

“It is particularly important that we continue to invest in the long-term future of facilities supported and run by organized labor. Northwest Indiana has long been the top steel producing region in the nation, and the state as a whole is responsible for more than a quarter of the nation’s total steel output. Investments like the relining of the Blast Furnace at Gary Works and the reopening of the Gary Tin Mill are important investments to drive job growth in the short term. But we also need to ensure that the communities that built America continue to be central to the future of steelmaking. That means finding ways to keep legacy facilities economically competitive in the long-term and working toward more sustainable steel production across the board.

“The Steel Caucus also remains focused on curbing global excess capacity and protecting American steel producers against unfair trade practices. Over the last month, Mr. Crawford and I have weighed in on the threat of Chinese autos to American steelmakers and oppose any proposal lowering barriers to access for Chinese automakers into American markets. We are also closely monitoring the Section 301 investigation on excess capacity and have encouraged the Administration to selectively stack remedies from this investigation on top of existing 232 tariffs.

“As North American trading partners meet in the coming weeks to discuss the renegotiation of USMCA, the Steel Caucus will also be engaged with the Administration to strengthen and expand melt and pour standards to prevent steel from non-North American markets from being dumped on our shores.

“From the mines to the mills to the downstream producers, the steel industry is the driver of our nation’s economy, energy security, and national defense. I look forward to today’s discussion to learn more about how we can be advocates for the continued health and strength of American steelmakers and its workforce.”

Witness list and testimony:

Patrick Bloom, EVP of Government Relations for Cleveland Cliffs, on behalf of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), click here.

Roxanne Brown, International President of the United Steelworkers, click here.

Donnie Holder, Chairman of the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI), VP of Global Trade Affairs of Webco Industries, click here.

Leon Topalian, President & CEO of Nucor, click here.

Kristopher Westbrooks, President and COO of Metallus, on behalf of the Steel Manufactures Association (SMA), click here.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-secures-committee-approval-17-community-projects-advancing-more-45,"Shreve Secures Committee Approval for 17 Community Projects, Advancing More Than $45 Million for Indiana’s Sixth District",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that all 17 of his Community Project Funding requests have advanced through the House Appropriations Committee, totaling more than $45 million for Indiana’s Sixth Congressional District.

The projects support public safety, military readiness, clean drinking water, wastewater infrastructure, roads, workforce development, and first responders across south central and eastern Indiana. Final funding must still pass the full House and Senate and be signed into law.

“Over the past two months, the Appropriations Committee has done the hard work required to move all 12 annual spending bills through committee on time. That matters because this is how Congress is supposed to work: debating priorities, controlling spending, and making decisions before the deadline,” said Rep. Shreve. “All 17 projects I requested for the Sixth District advanced. These projects came directly from conversations with Hoosiers and address real needs in our communities. This is an important step. My focus now is getting them across the finish line and delivering these investments back home.”

The projects include:

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs

$27.5 million for the Indiana National Guard to support a new aircraft maintenance hangar in Shelbyville.

Commerce, Justice, and Science

$1.65 million for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department for bulletproof vests and helmets for officers.

$650,000 for the Shelbyville Police Department to replace outdated police radios.

$120,000 for the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office to upgrade to a mobile command center and fentanyl identification technology.

Interior and Environment

$1.6 million for West College Corner to upgrade its 80-year-old water distribution system.

$1.15 million to connect Fayette Central Elementary School to a reliable municipal water supply.

$1 million for the Town of Trafalgar to modernize aging water mains and fire hydrants.

$1 million for the Town of Carthage to reduce stormwater infiltration into its sewer system.

$1 million for Hancock County to build a new regional water line serving Maxwell and Eden.

$1 million for the Town of New Palestine to upgrade and extend sewer service to residents.

$1 million for the Northwest Shelby County Regional Sewer District for new sewer infrastructure and a treatment plant.

$1 million for the City of Greenfield to replace lead pipes.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development

$2 million for the City of Richmond to build a new fire station and improve local emergency response.

$1.8 million for the Amplify Hancock Innovation Center, a workforce development hub offering industry certifications with Hancock Health and Ivy Tech.

$1.1 million to replace the failing Forsythe Street culvert over Hurricane Creek in Franklin.

Homeland Security

$1.1 million for the City of Rushville to add stormwater retention and reduce flooding near businesses, parks, and neighborhoods.

Agriculture and Rural Development

$500,000 for the Green Township Volunteer Fire Department to replace a fire rescue truck that has reached the end of its service life.

Rep. Shreve was selected to serve on the House Committee on Appropriations in 2026, making him the first Indiana Republican to serve on the committee in 30 years. He serves on the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development; Homeland Security; and Commerce, Justice, and Science subcommittees.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mrvan-congressional-labor-caucus-members-and-usw-leadership-call,"Congressman Mrvan, Congressional Labor Caucus Members, and USW Leadership Call on British Petroleum to End the Lockout with Local 7-1",2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank Mrvan (IN-01), alongside Congressional Labor Caucus Members, Roxanne Brown - International President of the United Steelworkers, and Eric Shultz - President of the USW Local 7-1, called on British Petroleum to end the lockout at the facility located in Whiting, Indiana.

A video of the press conference is available here.

Congressman Mrvan stated, “I thank my fellow members of the Congressional Labor Caucus and leaders of the United Steelworkers for joining me in calling for British Petroleum to end this lockout and return to good-faith negotiations. We must continue to do all we can to stand in solidarity with the members and families of Local 7-1 and put our skilled Northwest Indiana workers back on the job.”

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) stated, “I have spent my entire life fighting for working people. I know what it means when a family sits around the kitchen table wondering how they're going to make ends meet. That's what this lockout is doing to families in Indiana right now, and we are not going to stand by quietly while that happens. I am proud to stand with the United Steelworkers Local 7-1. Every working woman and man in this country is better off because of what this union has done, and the workers in Whiting deserve better than what they are getting.

Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) stated, ""BP's profits were nearly $4 billion last quarter — a 453 percent increase compared to last year. Yet when it came time to pay workers a fair wage, suddenly BP has empty pockets. Its lockout of employees in Whitling is ridiculous at face value, flawed on the merits, and should stop immediately. It's beyond time for BP to meaningfully engage in contract negotiations with its workers and get a fair contract across the finish line.""

Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02) stated, “I stand in solidarity with the workers at BP's Whiting Refinery as they fight for their right to bargain with their employer. BP's aggressive tactics and illegal lockout disregard federal law and the dignity of the workforce. It’s time for BP to end this lockout and get back to the bargaining table with USW and agree to a fair contract for all parties.”

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) stated, ""I represent communities a lot like Whiting -- communities built by working people who ask for nothing more than a fair shot and a fair deal. So, when I learned that BP had locked USW Local 7-1 workers out of negotiations, I knew we couldn't stay silent. That's why I joined Congressman Mrvan in calling on BP to end this lockout, and why today, I was proud to stand alongside him and USW to send a clear message: Bring these workers back to the table, negotiate fairly, and deliver the agreement they have earned and deserve.""

Congressman Jesus Chuy Garcia (IL-04) stated, “As a former Teamster member, raised in an immigrant, union home, I know the power that organized labor has to improve the lives of working families. What BP is doing in Indiana is trying to deny workers the power of a fair contract negotiated in good faith. They are trying to cut pay and decimate the workforce. The actions of this multi-billion dollar corporation are more than an attack on workers’ rights — they are putting the community’s safety at risk by bringing inexperienced replacement workers. BP must end this lockout immediately and return to serious negotiations.”

Roxanne Brown, International President of the United Steelworkers stated, “When British Petroleum illegally locked out 800 hardworking USW members in March, it didn’t just show its disregard for the skill and experience they bring to the table. It also showed its disdain for American consumers. British Petroleum’s desire to cut jobs and strip workers of needed protections, its willingness to cause disruptions at a time when our energy supply lines are already under strain, is absolutely a public safety issue. It compromises our communities and threatens our national security. We thank the members of Congress who stood with us today and call on others to join us in telling British Petroleum to end the illegal lockout now.”

Eric Schultz, President of USW Local 7-1 stated, “British Petroleum brags to their shareholders about the record profits they earned on the backs of our members - members whose families are now going without a paycheck because of the company’s illegal lockout. When 98% of our members rejected British Petroleum’s demand that we agree to eliminate more than 100 local jobs, cut the wages of hundreds of workers and for all of us to give up seniority and bargaining rights, they illegally locked us out of our jobs and have refused to budge on their demands. That’s not good-faith bargaining. That’s greed.”

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2575,Congressman Baird Joins President Trump for Medal of Honor Ceremony for Major Nicholas Dockery,2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) recently joined President Donald Trump as he awarded Major Nicholas Dockery with the Medal of Honor for his heroism in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Congressman Baird sponsored the Nicholas Dockery Medal of Honor Act to award Major Dockery with the highest military decoration of the U.S. Armed Forces. This legislation was signed into law by President Trump on March 26, 2026. Dockery is an Indiana native and is the sole Army officer and one of only two U.S. officers to receive two Silver Stars for gallantry in the post-9/11 era.

“Major Dockery has demonstrated exceptional heroism, going above and beyond the call of duty and selflessly risking his own life multiple times to save his soldiers while serving in Afghanistan,” said Congressman Baird. “I was proud to join President Trump as he presented Major Dockery with the Medal of Honor. Major Dockery represents the very best of our nation and our Armed Forces, and I could not be more pleased to join him and the president at this historic ceremony recognizing his extraordinary acts of valor.”

Additional background on Major Dockery can be found here and here.

###",1,2026-06-23T06:27:52Z,2026-06-23T06:29:20Z
https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases/mrvan-letter-doe-utility-affordability,Mrvan Letter to DOE on Utility Affordability,2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,IN,Frank J. Mrvan,M001214,mrvan.house.gov,mrvan,https://mrvan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan released a letter he sent to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in opposition to the emergency order forcing the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) to maintain operations at two coal-fired generating units in Indiana and unnecessarily increase costs on ratepayers.

The text of the letter is below and a pdf is available here.

“I write to express my strong opposition to Emergency Order 202–26–29 forcing the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) to maintain operations at two coal-fired generating units in Wheatfield, Indiana. At a time when ratepayers in Northwest Indiana are already facing skyrocketing utility bills, this action will continue to place burdensome and unnecessary costs on families and businesses throughout the region. I urge you to reverse this order and instead work to lower utility costs for my constituents.

“Maintaining operations at NIPSCO's R.M. Schahfer Generating Station has already come with exorbitant costs. Since the Department of Energy (DOE) issued its original orders in December 2025, NIPSCO has estimated losses of approximately $11.5 million. According to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, the cost to keep coal-fired power plants operating past their retirement dates nationwide has reached $300 million, and this number is rising by $30 million per month.

“Placing these additional costs on families already struggling to pay their utility bills is cruel and unnecessary. On average, families in Northwest Indiana have seen their utility rates jump more than 26 percent over the last year, one of the highest rate increases in the country. The millions of dollars shouldered by ratepayers to keep the Wheatfield plant in operation will only make it more difficult for seniors, families, and hard-working Americans to keep their lights on.

“Additionally, Northwest Indiana represents the nation’s largest concentration of steel production, as well as robust manufacturing industries. This DOE directive will result in increasing input costs for these vital industries that support our nation’s economy, energy security, and national defense.

“During your testimony in front of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water on April 15, 2026, you committed to reversing this directive should DOE find that continuing to operate NIPSCO’s coal-fired units is “not net-beneficial to ratepayers.” To be clear, this action is not beneficial and will only continue to drive up energy costs for families and businesses throughout Northwest Indiana. I ask that you immediately rescind these orders and join me in pursuing strategies to drive down energy costs.”

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stutzman-supports-memorandum-understanding-iran,REP. STUTZMAN SUPPORTS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH IRAN,2026-06-19,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) released the following statement on the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran:

""When the United States first launched an attack on Iran in February, there were three goals in mind. First, Iran must not have a nuclear weapon. Second, the Strait of Hormuz must be open for free and fair global trade. Third, Iran must stop sponsoring terrorism globally.

“Over the last 100 days, President Trump has used peace through strength and the art of the deal tactics to not only bring Iran to the table but also dismantle significant swaths of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), decimate Iranian infrastructure, and ultimately have Iran sign an MOU that will make the United States and the world a safer place.

“The deal ends the conflict, restores fair trade in the Strait, and destroys Iran’s nuclear ambitions. As President Trump said, this is ‘not final,’ and there will be further negotiation to reach every goal the United States is pursuing in Iran.

“We reserve the right to return to war if the deal is not followed. President Trump has never minced words about the fact that he is putting the American people first and focused on ending the evil Iran has been promoting. Anyone who sees this deal as a loss for America truly has never understood President Trump’s negotiating style or love for our country.

“I look forward to seeing this and future deals play out for a safer America, a denuclearized Iran, and security physically and economically in the Middle East for our allies, especially Israel, without the division Iran inspires. Thank you, President Trump, for once again making the world a better place.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreve-hosts-wayne-county-veterans-roundtable,Shreve Hosts Wayne County Veterans Roundtable,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"RICHMOND, IN — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) hosted a veterans roundtable at Richmond City Hall to hear directly from Wayne County veterans about access to care, VA services, and the Richmond VA Clinic.

Wayne County is home to more than 4,000 veterans. The discussion focused on how local veterans use the VA system, where it is working, and where Congress can help improve service and access.

“Wayne County veterans served this country, and they’ve earned care that is timely, reliable, and close to home,” said Rep. Shreve. “This roundtable was about listening directly to the men and women who use the VA system. Their experience matters, and it will help guide my work in Congress as we keep pressing for better care and stronger support for Hoosier veterans.”

In Congress, Rep. Shreve has supported legislation to strengthen veterans’ benefits and health care. He has cosponsored the Major Richard Star Act and the Veterans’ ACCESS Act of 2025, and supported $1.64 billion through the 2027 appropriations process for a new VA medical center in Indianapolis.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/hoosier-receives-medal-honor,Hoosier Receives Medal of Honor,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Spartz was honored to join President Trump at the White House as Major Nicholas Dockery received the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest military decoration.

“Any nation is judged by how it honors the heroes who put their lives on the line for our freedom,” Rep. Spartz said. “It has been my privilege to play a small part in helping recognize Nick’s extraordinary service and sacrifice. His courage under fire, unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers, and devotion to our country embody the very best of America.”

Background

Major Nicholas Dockery, an Indiana native, has dedicated his life to serving our nation. He enlisted in the Indiana National Guard before graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and later serving as a Green Beret and Special Forces officer. Throughout his distinguished military career, he earned two Silver Stars, two Purple Hearts, three Bronze Stars, the Legion of Merit, the Soldier's Medal, the Nininger Award for Valor, the MacArthur Leadership Award, and the Military Times Soldier of the Year Award.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2573,Congressman Baird Applauds USDA for Land-Grant University Funding,2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announcing the opening of funding opportunities for the Research Facilities Act program, which received $125 million in annual funding through the Working Families Tax Cuts:

“Our land-grant universities are among the best in the world and provide cutting-edge research and innovation that strengthen our agriculture industry,” said Congressman Baird. “That includes my alma mater, Purdue University, which has been a pioneer in research and food security. I was proud to help secure this important funding opportunity for our land-grant universities through the Working Families Tax Cuts last summer, and I thank President Trump, Secretary Rollins, and USDA for their efforts to support our farmers who feed and fuel our nation.”

This funding opportunity will be administered through the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. For more information, click here.

###",1,2026-06-18T06:41:00Z,2026-06-18T06:43:25Z
https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2572,Congressman Baird Supports Legislation to Take Care of Veterans,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Baird released the following statement after serving as an original cosponsor of the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act, comprehensive and bipartisan legislation to modernize and reform U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services for veterans, sponsored by House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chair Mike Bost (IL-12):

“This year, we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, and it is an opportunity to renew our promise to our veterans and their families,” said Congressman Baird. “As a Vietnam combat veteran, I am pleased to support this tremendous package to give veterans better access to healthcare, strengthen benefits for veterans and survivors, and reform outdated, bureaucratic processes at the VA that cause delays. We want to make the VA work for veterans again and make sure our country properly takes care of those who served our country. I’m also proud to see that the package contains the Major Richard Star Act, a priority for numerous Hoosiers and veterans in our district. I thank Congressman Bost for his leadership, and I will work with him to deliver this victory for our veterans.”

Additional information on the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act can be found here.

###",1,2026-06-16T06:53:21Z,2026-06-16T06:55:02Z
https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-local-leaders-praise-house-passage-houchin-community,WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Local Leaders Praise House Passage of Houchin Community Project Funding Requests,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) highlighted support from local leaders after the House passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which includes more than $3.1 million in Community Project Funding requests she submitted on behalf of communities across Indiana's Ninth District.

The funding will support critical wastewater and stormwater infrastructure improvements in Switzerland County, Austin, Borden, and Greenville.

""I was proud to work alongside local leaders to secure funding for these important infrastructure projects,"" said Rep. Houchin. ""These investments will strengthen critical water and wastewater systems, support future growth, and improve quality of life for residents across southern Indiana.""

“The City of Austin is grateful to Congresswoman Houchin for supporting a major investment in Austin’s infrastructure. This funding will help the city address critical stormwater needs, improve public safety, and reduce flooding concerns for residents and businesses. Projects like this are essential to protecting our community and ensuring reliable infrastructure for years to come.” — Chris Fugate, City of Austin Clerk-Treasurer

""The Town of Greenville is incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Houchin for selecting our sewer expansion project for funding. This investment will immensely help our town improve critical infrastructure and we appreciate her continued advocacy and consideration for our community.” – Stephen Webb, Superintendent of Greenville Water

""Investing in our wastewater infrastructure is essential for the long-term success of our community. These improvements will enhance public services, support responsible growth, and position Borden for future opportunities while maintaining our commitment to protecting the environment and public health."" – Brenna LaDuke, Town of Borden Development Coordinator

""We thank Rep. Houchin for her support in seeking this federal investment into Switzerland County's future. This request reflects her willingness to dig into what a small county actually needs — the building blocks that make workforce training and small business development possible here at home. Dollars from this appropriation request will fund a commercial kitchen, coworking space, and the infrastructure to support entrepreneurial growth and workforce training. It's the kind of concrete, accountable use of federal dollars that rural communities rarely get to point to."" – Jon Bond, President of Economic Development, Switzerland County",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-rushville-new-castle-and,"Congressman Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Rushville, New Castle, and Greenfield",2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours to assist Hoosiers on Tuesday, June 16th in Rushville, Wednesday, June 17th in New Castle, and Thursday, June 18th in Greenfield.

During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Congressman Shreve’s staff to help resolve issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA).

""Our mobile office hours bring constituent services directly to communities across the Sixth District,” said Congressman Shreve. “If you’re having trouble with a federal agency, my team stands ready to help.”

If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333.

Mobile Office Hours Details:

Rushville, Indiana

Date: Tuesday, June 16th

Time: 2PM to 4PM

Location: Rushville City Hall

330 N. Main St. Suite 200, Rushville, IN 46173

New Castle, Indiana

Date: Wednesday, June 17th

Time: 3PM to 5PM

Location: New Castle Henry County Economic Development Corporation

100 S. Main St. Suite 203, New Castle, IN 47362

Greenfield, Indiana

Date: Thursday, June 18th

Time: 1:30PM to 3:30PM

Location: Greenfield City Hall

10 S. State St., Greenfield, IN 46140",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://yakym.house.gov/posts/yakym-schneider-introduce-bipartisan-concrete-pump-tax-fairness-act,"Yakym, Schneider Introduce Bipartisan Concrete Pump Tax Fairness Act",2026-06-12,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IN,Rudy Yakym III,Y000067,yakym.house.gov,yakym,https://yakym.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) and Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), members of the House Ways and Means Committee, introduced the Concrete Pump Tax Fairness Act. This bipartisan legislation would replace the current fuel tax on mobile mounted concrete boom pumps with a mileage-based user fee.

“Concrete pump operators are the backbone of American construction. Many of the buildings you walk into was built by these hardworking men and women,” Rep. Yakym said. “ This commonsense bill ensures that this vital construction equipment that builds America receives the same tax treatment as other mobile machinery.”

“Concrete pumps shouldn’t face unfair double taxation – leading to stalled construction sites nationwide,” said Schneider. “As fuel and equipment costs rise, I’m glad to work with my colleague Rep. Yakym on a bipartisan commonsense solution to right this wrong and ensure concrete pumping is treated fairly under the tax code like other pieces of mobile machinery in the construction industry. Our concrete pump operators must be able to continue to provide the essential services that ensure our communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive.”

“Concrete pumping is how America builds — hospitals, schools, bridges, homes. Without concrete pump operators, job sites simply don’t move. At a time when our industry facing significant fuel and equipment costs, our industry deserves to be treated fairly under the tax laws. The Concrete Pump Tax Fairness Act does that. It recognizes the essential role the concrete pump industry plays in the American economy and takes a commonsense step toward ensuring our businesses receive fair tax treatment extended to other mobile machinery in the construction industry,” Christi Collins, Executive Director, American Concrete Pumping Association said. “The bill will make a real difference for the many concrete pump businesses and the jobs they support in South Bend, North Chicago, and throughout the Country. We’re grateful to Representatives Yakym and Schneider for their leadership in championing this bill and for standing up for the hardworking men and women who build this country every day.”

Read the full bill HERE.

Background:

Mobile mounted concrete boom pumps are the workhorses of American construction, yet under current law, they’re taxed differently than virtually every other piece of comparable mobile machinery on job sites across the country. While similar construction equipment benefits from alternative tax treatment, concrete pump operators are stuck paying a fuel tax that doesn’t reflect how their equipment is actually used.

The Concrete Pump Tax Fairness Act levels the playing field by:

Replacing the existing fuel tax with a mileage-based user fee — $0.05 per mile for vehicles under 60,000 pounds and $0.07 per mile for vehicles over 60,000 pounds — so operators are taxed on road use, not fuel consumption;

Depositing all revenues into the Highway Trust Fund, ensuring concrete pump operators continue contributing their fair share to America’s infrastructure; and

Directing the Treasury and Transportation Departments to build a streamlined compliance system that reduces administrative burden and protects the privacy of operators.",1,2026-06-13T06:32:19Z,2026-06-13T06:34:27Z