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://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-new-year-statement-0,Congressman Flood's New Year Statement,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA– Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement ahead of the New Year holiday, which is celebrated on Thursday, January 1st. “The New Year is a time for both reflection and renewal. As Americans and as Nebraskans, we have much to be thankful for as we turn the page and enter 2026. Our economy continues to grow, our communities enjoy great peace and prosperity, and, thanks to American leadership, a number of significant conflicts abroad have been concluded. In the new year, Congress will continue working to protect the American Dream for our hardworking families, helping them find new great opportunities, lower energy costs, make homeownership affordable, and much more. Mandi, the boys, and I wish everyone a happy New Year. May God continue to bless the Good Life and may God bless the United States of America.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2841,Bacon Announces $10 Million Grant for Eppley Airfield Expansion,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Thanks Senator Fischer and Eppley Leaders for Collaboration Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced today that Eppley Airfield has secured a $10 million FY26 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) for reconstructing 35,000 square feet of the existing terminal, including the concourse and security checkpoint, arrival/departure gates, and international gates that have reached the end of their useful lives. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction of the pedestrian walkway. Throughout his Congressional career, Rep. Bacon has made improvements to Eppley Airfield one of his top priorities, helping secure more than $94.1 million through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other funding sources. These investments expand flight capacity and inspection areas while streamlining the check-in and TSA processes for travelers and increasing possible international flights. “It has been thrilling to see the airport expansion construction take place and realize how much this will add to Omaha’s “entrance,” said Rep. Bacon. “This expansion will enable Eppley to meet the travel needs of the growing metropolitan Omaha area and welcome international flights. This transformation will shape our region’s future for many decades to come and will be vital for Omaha's economy. I'm pleased to work with the leaders at Eppley and Sen. Fischer in creating what will become the best airport in the Midwest.” “Eppley Airport is a critical gateway connecting Nebraskans to the rest of the country and the world. With this funding I secured alongside Rep. Bacon, we’re expanding Eppley’s global reach and strengthening Nebraska’s economy,” said Sen. Fischer. “The Omaha Airport Authority was pleased to be notified by Congressman Bacon’s office that Eppley Airfield will be receiving a grant for the Build OMA Terminal Modernization Program. We are happy to be the recipient of $10 million in Federal Aviation Administration funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Dave Roth, Chief Executive Officer of the Omaha Airport Authority. “This grant funding will create benefits for travelers from Omaha and throughout Nebraska. The funds will support continued improvements at Eppley Airfield including increased capacity, improved throughput, and an enhanced customer experience for decades to come.” Rep. Bacon also announced an Airport Improvement Program grant for the Wahoo Municipal Airport of $382,000 to construct a new 11,000 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage/maintenance to assist the airport to be as self-sustaining as possible by generating revenue. This project is allowable under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's expanded eligibility. This grant funds a portion of the final phase, which consists of construction. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2840,Bacon Issues Statement Following Ben Sasse’s Cancer Diagnosis,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after the announcement of former Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse’s cancer diagnosis: “Angie and I are heartbroken by the news shared by our friend Ben Sasse. He is a strong friend who I love to hear from. We are keeping Ben and his family in our prayers and are grateful for his willingness to share his faith and trust in the Almighty during such a difficult moment, reminding us of the eternal promise God has given all of us when we put our faith in Him.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-us-military-service-academy-nominations-class-2030,Congressman Flood Announces U.S. Military Service Academy Nominations for Class of 2030,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the nomination of First Congressional District constituents to the U.S. Military Service Academies. The announcement comes at the conclusion of a rigorous interview and selection process that included the input of a committee of Nebraskans with diverse backgrounds, including military leaders and community members. “I want to commend this impressive class of Nebraskans who desire to serve our nation through our Armed Forces. It is one of the greatest honors to put forward talented young leaders for consideration at our U.S. Military Service Academies every year,” said Congressman Flood. “I would also like to express my appreciation to the selection committee for their careful and dedicated review of every applicant.” The committee was chaired by Dave Merritt of Norfolk (USN) with members including Col. Fred Phelan of Lincoln (USAF) and Chris Hove of Lincoln (USN). The committee examined each applicant’s understanding of the nature of the Military Service Academies, the role of Officers in the Armed Forces, the applicant’s desire to serve, their academic records, and their ability to communicate effectively in a high stakes environment. With input of the committee, Congressman Mike Flood nominated applicants that met the rigorous academic and physical requirements of the Military Service Academies. There are five U.S. Military Service Academies: U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The office received no applications for nomination to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Congressman Mike Flood’s nominations are in alphabetical order by last name:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-delivers-2025-christmas-address,Congressman Flood Delivers 2025 Christmas Address,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) issued a recorded statement ahead of Christmas, which is observed December 25, 2025. Video of Congressman Flood's Christmas address can be found here, while the full text of Congressman Flood’s remarks are provided below. News outlets are welcome to use the video for reporting purposes. Friends and fellow Nebraskans, As we enter into Christmas, it's an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on the blessings we've received and on the real meaning of the season. In the coming days, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in a humble manger, surrounded by family, heralded by angels, and visited by kings. The nativity of Jesus marks the arrival of our Savior and the beginning of His journey on earth. Now, 2,000 years later, Christ's life, death, and sacrifice offer each of us eternal salvation. Through the centuries, the heart of Jesus has strengthened us through times of trial and persecution, as well as times of prosperity. This holiday season, I'm especially praying for peace in the world. Right now, American troops are serving in different capacities across the globe, helping to protect and defend American interests and keeping the world safe. I particularly hope and pray for an end to global conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine, an end to violence in Sudan, and lasting peace in the Middle East. Here in America, as we gather around the Christmas tree, attend worship service or Mass, and spend time with our loved ones, we have much to be grateful for, knowing that we get to celebrate this holiday amidst great peace and prosperity at home. As we celebrate this Christmas season and look to the new year, let us continue to strengthen the flame of faith in Jesus Christ and a deeper love and compassion for our neighbors. Whether you are spending time with family and friends or serving overseas this Christmas season, we all can draw closer to God and to one another. Mandi, my sons, and our entire family wish each of you a very safe, warm, and merry Christmas. May God richly bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-former-sen-ben-sasses-cancer-diagnosis,Congressman Flood’s Statement on Former Sen. Ben Sasse’s Cancer Diagnosis,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news of former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE) announcing his diagnosis of metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer. “A remarkable response to a devastating diagnosis. From Nebraska to Florida and all across the country, we are with you and praying for you, Melissa, and your kids as you take on this new battle, Ben.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2838,"Bacon, Horsford, Kiggans, and Houlahan Introduce Bipartisan Bill Improving Health Care Access for Military Families",2025-12-20,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) introduced the Military Care Access, Reporting, and Evaluation (Military CARE) Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize how TRICARE beneficiaries report and resolve health care access challenges at military treatment facilities. The Military CARE Act addresses access-to-care gaps by creating a secure, standardized digital platform for TRICARE beneficiaries to submit and monitor care issues, requiring real-time notifications to patient advocates, directing the Defense Health Agency to analyze complaint trends each quarter, and mandating annual reports to Congress that outline challenges and corrective actions. “Our military families deserve timely care and a clear path to raise concerns when the system falls short. The Military CARE Act gives service members and their families a direct line to report care access issues and track their resolution, while ensuring Congress has the data needed to identify and fix systemic problems across the military health system,” Rep. Bacon said. “I’m pleased to co-lead this vital effort with Rep. Horsford to strengthen access to care for the families who sacrifice so much in service to our nation.” “Military families serve our nation and sacrifice so much for it, and they deserve a health care system that serves them just as well,” Rep. Horsford said. “Too many families struggle to get timely appointments or clear information, and they’re left without a reliable way to raise concerns or track whether problems are fixed. This bipartisan bill gives military families a real voice, gives providers the tools to respond quickly, and gives Congress the oversight needed to ensure servicemembers and their loved ones are never left behind.When we support our families, we strengthen the entire force.” “Access to timely, reliable health care is both a personal issue and a readiness issue. Too often, military families hit administrative roadblocks or long delays with no clear way to raise concerns or track whether problems are being fixed,” Rep. Houlahan said. “The Military CARE Act brings transparency and accountability to the system by giving TRICARE beneficiaries a straightforward way to report access issues and ensures those concerns reach patient advocates and senior leaders. This bipartisan, commonsense bill helps Congress identify systemic gaps and ensures our military health system works for the people it’s meant to serve.” “Today, America’s servicemembers, veterans, and military families are forced to fight endless red tape and navigate a confusing and deeply frustrating system to get the healthcare they have earned,” Rep. Goodlander said. “That’s not right. Our commonsense bipartisan bill will cut senseless red tape, restore basic accountability, and return the power back where it belongs: with patients. This bill is about ensuring accountability, strengthening readiness, and keeping the sacred promise we make to those who serve our country.” “Without reliable data and transparency, access-to-care problems in the military health system remain unseen and unresolved,” Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret), President and CEO, Military Officers Association of America said. “The Military CARE Act ensures beneficiary experiences are captured, tracked, and reported – giving leaders and Congress the visibility needed to identify systemic issues and drive meaningful, lasting improvements for military families. MOAA is grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Horsford, Kiggans, Bacon, and Houlahan in advancing this critical reform and MOAA priority.” The bipartisan Military Care Act, co-led by Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) also includes the following original cosponsors: Reps. Sanford Bishop (GA-02), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), and James Moylan (GU-AL). The legislation is endorsed by Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA), Air and Space Forces Association (AFA), Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA), AMVETS, Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Services (COA), Fleet Reserve Association (FRA), Gold Star Spouses of America, Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America (JWV), Military Chaplains Association (MCA), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), National Military Family Association (NMFA), Naval Enlisted Reserve Association (NERA), Reserve Organization of America (ROA), Secure Families Initiative, Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), SPARTA, The Enlisted Association (TREA), Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), TRICARE for Kids Coalition (TFK), U.S. Army Warrant Officers Association (USAWOA), USCG Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA), and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Read the full text of the Military CARE Act here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2837,"Bacon, Fitzpatrick, Meeks, & Bipartisan Colleagues Advance New ‘Peace Through Strength’ Sanctions on Russia Toward January Floor Action",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Gregory Meeks (NY-5) led a broad bipartisan coalition of House Members to introduce the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025, comprehensive legislation that translates ongoing negotiations into decisive congressional action and advances the bill toward House Floor consideration in January. Co-leads on the bill include Representatives Mike Turner (OH-10), Tom Suozzi (NY-3), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Steny Hoyer (MD-5), and Marcy Kaptur (OH-9), reflecting broad, bipartisan agreement that Congress must lead with resolve as diplomatic efforts continue. “Putin’s regime only responds to resolve and takes advantage of weakness and vacillation. During these failed negotiations, Russia has continued bombing Ukrainian cities with increasing intensity. We must play hardball by sending Ukraine the weapons it needs and imposing tough sanctions on Russia that cripple his war economy, an approach Americans overwhelmingly agree with,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m pleased to join Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in co-leading the bipartisan Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act to impose sanctions and other measures if Russia refuses to negotiate a peace agreement with Ukraine.” “Negotiations do not relieve Congress of its responsibility to act,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “That responsibility has been clear for some time, and waiting is no longer an option. Peace through strength is the discipline of negotiating from strength—of standing with Ukraine, making unmistakably clear that Russia’s campaign of aggression will not be normalized or rewarded, and affirming that America still enforces the rules that keep peace possible. This is not just about ending one war. It is about setting the rules for a world that is watching whether America still enforces them. I am grateful to be working hand in hand with Ranking Member Meeks to push any and all solutions forward to the House Floor, including the Ukraine Support Act. We can end this war. We can end Putin’s tyranny. And we must lead the American way—through peace, through strength.” “Russia won't negotiate an end to its war unless real pressure is applied on the Kremlin to stop its brutality. I'm proud to have worked with Rep. Fitzpatrick on a compromise Russia sanctions bill that would impose real costs on Russia and those fueling its war effort, while avoiding further harmful global tariffs. I thank Rep. Fitzpatrick for also signing my discharge petition for the Ukraine Support Act, helping work towards both measures reaching the House floor for a vote. There is strong bipartisan support for Ukraine in the House, and this agreement makes clear that Russia cannot wait it out or continue its war of aggression without facing significant consequences,” said Rep. Meeks. “The only viable path to peace in Ukraine is putting pressure on the Kremlin. It is beyond important that both sides of the aisle have come together on compromise legislation to impose strong sanctions on Russia for its illegal war of aggression as well as to take additional steps to move the bipartisan discharge petition for the Ukraine Support Act forward in the House,” said HFAC Subcommittee on Europe Ranking Member Keating. “As Ukraine continues to defend itself from Russian aggression, the Ukrainian people must know that Ukraine has strong bipartisan support in the House of Representatives. The Kremlin must also know that we will not rest until a durable Ukraine-supported peace deal is achieved.” “We must take firm action against the Russian Federation. This bill sends a clear message: any refusal to engage in meaningful negotiations for peace or any violation of agreements will not go unpunished. We stand with Ukraine and affirm our commitment to ensuring that they are protected from further aggression. It's time for diplomacy,” said Rep. Turner. “Russia’s unprovoked war against Ukraine is a direct assault on sovereignty, democracy, and the international rules-based order. The United States will not reward aggression or allow Vladimir Putin to stall, violate agreements, or prepare for another invasion without serious consequences. Peace will only come when Russia understands that continued violence carries real costs. I’m proud to cosponsor this legislation to strengthen sanctions, hold bad actors accountable, and stand firmly with the Ukrainian people,” said Rep. Lawler. “Peace through strength means standing up to dictators through actions, not just words,"" said Rep. Suozzi. ""The Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act does exactly that by cracking down on those responsible for the kidnapping of Ukrainian children, increasing sanction pressure on Russia, and expanding sanctions to Russian partners in North Korea. I'm proud to stand with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to say that the United States will not tolerate Putin's murderous war in Ukraine, and will defend our democratic allies across the world."" ""Through force, Dictator Putin aspires to rewrite the structure of Europe and end democratic practice across the continent. America’s foreign policy must promote Liberty, not bow to Tyranny,"" said Rep. Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. ""With this new bipartisan bill, we are putting forward the most significant legislation introduced this Congress to place economic sanctions on Russia for its war crimes against Ukraine."" The Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 builds on Fitzpatrick’s constant efforts since the beginning of the conflict in 2022 to advance designed to force meaningful negotiations, deter further aggression, and ensure any peace agreement is real, durable, and accepted by the free and independent Government of Ukraine. Unlike piecemeal sanctions, the legislation establishes a comprehensive structure that directly links Russia’s economic isolation to its willingness to pursue—and honor—peace. It reflects overwhelming bipartisan support for empowering the United States to use strong economic pressure as a tool to help bring this war to an end. Specifically, the bill would: Mandate sanctions on senior Russian officials, oligarchs, state-owned enterprises, and entities supporting Russia’s defense, energy, and transportation sectors Sever Russia’s access to the global financial system, including blocking transactions with Russian financial institutions, prohibiting U.S. investment in Russia, banning trading of Russian entities on U.S. securities exchanges, and targeting financial messaging systems used to evade sanctions Close loopholes fueling Russia’s war economy, including ending refined oil import workarounds and prohibiting U.S. purchases of Russian sovereign debt Target Russia’s energy leverage, prohibiting new U.S. investment and sanctioning foreign actors who enable Russian oil, gas, LNG, and uranium production Impose sanctions for war crimes, including the kidnapping and wrongful deportation of Ukrainian children and Russia-North Korea cooperation supporting Russia’s illegal war Increase duties up to 500 percent on goods imported from the Russian Federation to further isolate Russia economically The legislation also establishes a clear and enforceable off-ramp: sanctions may only be terminated if Russia signs a peace agreement accepted by Ukraine and fully ceases hostilities—subject to congressional review to prevent premature or politically motivated rollbacks. With negotiations ongoing, Fitzpatrick and his bipartisan colleagues will continue building support with the goal of bringing the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 to the House Floor in January—ensuring Congress does its part to match diplomacy with decisive action. Read the full bill text here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-congratulates-lincoln-airport-adding-american-airlines,Congressman Flood Congratulates Lincoln Airport on Adding American Airlines,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement following news that American Airlines will start flights from Lincoln to Dallas, Chicago, as well as Phoenix. “American Airlines’ decision to start flying multiple routes out of Lincoln is huge news for Lincoln’s business community and working families who will now have more options to use closer to home when traveling. Congratulations to the Lincoln Airport and the numerous stakeholders who have been pushing for years to expand the number of airlines flying from Lincoln. This is a big win for our capital city and will create momentum for growing the Lincoln Airport for years to come.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-house-passage-lower-health-care-premiums-all-americans-act,Smith Statement on House Passage of the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), a senior member of the Committee on Ways and Means, issued the following statement following House passage of H.R. 6703, the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act. “Democrats broke America’s health insurance system with Obamacare, driving massive increases in health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses for hardworking families. Their only solution is throwing unlimited taxpayer dollars at the problem, with no consideration for reform.” “Americans deserve better. They deserve true reforms to the healthcare marketplace, driving competition, increasing transparency, and making healthcare more affordable and accessible. I am especially pleased today’s legislation includes language ensuring small employers can work together through association health plans to reduce risk and increase affordability, which is vital for Nebraska’s family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses. “While I am pleased with the progress we made today, much work remains to undo the damage from Obamacare and ensure Americans can afford the healthcare they deserve. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the administration to pursue further solutions in the coming year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-historic-bipartisan-housing-package-advances,Congressman Flood Celebrates as Historic Bipartisan Housing Package Advances from Committee,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement following the Financial Services Committee’s passage of the bipartisan ‘Housing for the 21st Century Act.’ The bill is a culmination of legislative efforts and findings from the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee to address the housing shortage gripping communities across America. Congressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee as well as the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-spearheads-va-transparency-bill-part-broader-va,Congressman Flood Spearheads VA Transparency Bill As Part of Broader VA Reauthorization Push,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Image December 16, 2025 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood introduced H.R.6740, the “VA TRUST Act.” The bill enhances transparency and accountability of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Senior Executive Service (SES) employees by requiring the VA to disclose to Congress the accounts from which awards and bonuses are paid to SES employees as well as their annual salaries– promoting greater oversight and fiscal responsibility within the Department to ensure appropriated funds are not being used outside of the context that Congress intended. “The VA TRUST Act is a needed step in ensuring the VA remains focused on its core mission of serving our nation’s veterans,” said Congressman Flood. “Building on my efforts last Congress to bring more transparency and common sense to the pay and bonuses of the VA’s Senior Executive Service employees, the VA TRUST Act will help the Department better prioritize its mission to effectively serve veterans. I’m hopeful to see these reforms advance through the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs as part of its broader effort to reauthorize several key programs within the VA for the first time in decades."" Additionally, the ""VA TRUST Act"" promotes greater efficiency in line with the VA's commitment to serving our veterans first. It does so by allowing the VA to have broader authority in adjusting the basic rate of pay salaries of SES employees who relocate within the Department or transfer from another federal agency. Due to a lack of clarity in federal statute, some SES employees may continue receiving pay based on their previously held position or locality of employment—such as Chicago—even after relocating to a lower cost-of-living area like Lincoln. The VA TRUST Act clarifies the jurisdiction of the VA to authorize these changes in salary for these types of employees, within the existing framework allowed by current federal law. In a 2024 report by the VA’s Office of Inspector General, it was revealed that funds allocated by Congress (totaling $10.8 million) for recruitment and retention of VA employees that assist in processing veterans’ benefits claims, were instead used to award bonuses to SES employees within the VA. These bonuses averaged $55,000 per recipient, with multiple bonuses exceeding $100,000. In response to this finding, Congressman Flood introduced H.R.10319, the BONUS Transparency Act, during the 118th Congress, a portion of which is now included within the VA TRUST Act. Full text of the VA TRUST Act can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2836,Bacon Nominates 18 High School Students for Military Academies,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Today, Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) announced and congratulated 18 high school students from the 2nd District in Nebraska for their nominations to U.S. military service academies. “Choosing to serve our country is one of the most profoundly honorable commitments a person can make, and these 18 young men and women have shown outstanding merit to receive nominations to our military academies,” said Rep. Bacon. “As they begin their journey toward military service, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to them, as well as their parents, family, and mentors who have helped them reach this milestone. Having spent nearly 30 years in the Air Force alongside dedicated Americans who defend our freedom, I am truly inspired to see this generation step forward with patriotism and devotion to America in applying to these academies. This is one of the most important responsibilities I have as a Congressman and one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. I’m grateful for these young folks willing to serve in our military and defend the greatest country in the world, our freedoms and way of life.” The 18 are listed alphabetically and their selected academies are as follows: Caden Annis of Gretna East High School – Navy Leo Bailey of Skutt Catholic High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Daniel Castillo of Millard North High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Carly Connell of Westside High School – Air Force Carter Glab of Millard South High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Ethan Grinnsteiner of Elkhorn South High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Tyler Harrill of Skutt Catholic High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Henry Hendershoot of Thomas Jefferson High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy James LaFramboise of Gretna High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Zane Larson of Elkhorn North High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Easton Loucks of Omaha Creighton Prep – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Mitchell Minnich of Elkhorn South High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Owen Quakenbush of Millard South High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Grant Rieser of Westside High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Westen Roberts of Millard South High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy Connor Sams of Gretna East High School – Air Force Reece Santamaria of Papio-LaVista South High School – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy William Tabor of Omaha Creighton Prep – Air Force, Army, Merchant Marines, Navy ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-ways-and-means-approval-agoa-haiti-and-ip-protection,"Smith Statement on Ways and Means Approval of AGOA, Haiti, and IP Protection Legislation",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement after the House Ways and Means Committee reported three pieces of trade legislation on a bipartisan basis. “President Trump has rightly recognized the importance of trade as a tool for partnership, diplomacy, and economic development. Promoting stability through economic opportunity in Haiti and Sub-Saharan Africa provides opportunities for American consumers, creates new supply chains, and encourages those nations to look to the United States as a model for political and economic freedom, rather than to communist China. Likewise, empowering Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) with additional tools to address counterfeit products and protect American intellectual property is vital to advancing legal trade, now and into the future. “I appreciate the partnership of Chairman Jason Smith and bipartisan supporters across the committee in moving constructive trade legislation forward, and I look forward to continuing our work to see these bills through the legislative process.” BACKGROUND: The Ways and Means Committee advanced three pieces of trade legislation in today’s mark-up",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2834,Bacon Praises Passage of FY26 Defense Policy Bill,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Yesterday, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Cyber, Information Technology and Innovation Subcommittee, voted with his House colleagues to support final passage of S.1071, the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill passed the House of Representatives with a bipartisan majority of 312 to 112, and is now headed to the Senate and then to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law. This essential annual legislation, which contains multiple sections authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces. “My colleagues in the House have demonstrated that when we cooperate, we can pass bipartisan legislation that benefits our national security. Once again, we have maintained the trust of the American people by passing the annual defense authorization,” said Rep Bacon. “There are significant highlights in this bill for the 2nd Congressional District of Nebraska, and the entire country. This year’s NDAA revolutionizes the way that the Pentagon purchases weapons systems for our warfighters while also taking care of our all-volunteer force and their families. I commend Chairman Rogers, Ranking Member Smith, my fellow Members of the Committee and Congress, and all the staff who worked tirelessly to bring this bill to the finish line.” Highlights from the FY 2026 bill include: Authorizes over $900 billion for national defense with significant investments in the defense industrial base, munitions production, and critical technologies, including artificial intelligence, space, autonomous systems, and hypersonic weapons, as well as a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers Sets major reforms to the defense acquisition system to speed development and fielding of modern technologies while reducing bureaucracy Preserves U.S. force posture in Europe and authorizes additional security assistance to the Baltic Nations and Ukraine Fully funds modernization of the U.S strategic nuclear deterrent as well as scientific capabilities and nuclear command, control, and communications architectures Boosts compensation for our servicemembers, invests in barracks improvements, reforms on-base housing, and supports childcare for military families Protects senior military leaders from being dismissed or forced to resign without explanation Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide additional information and transparency to Congress on the counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific Ocean In addition, this year’s NDAA contains numerous legislative proposals sponsored by Rep. Bacon, including: Authorization of support to Ukraine and the Baltic Nations of Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia to counter Russian aggression Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to provide an acquisition and fielding strategy for the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program Creates a program of record for a combined military-civilian medical surge capability Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network Directs significant security upgrades to DoD mobile telecommunications Directs the major defense acquisitions programs to prepare digital manufacturing transition plans for critical components Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Center for Strategic Deterrence and WMD Studies at the National Defense University Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to produce a study on the future of the Airborne Operations Center Authorizes $15 million for USSTRATCOM’s nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) rapid engineering architecture collaboration hub (REACH) initiative at Offutt AFB The text of the NDAA and related documents can be found here. Watch Rep. Bacon's remarks on the FY26 NDAA here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2835,"Bacon, Panetta Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Hire, Train, and Retain New Prosecutors",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, DC – Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral, Helping Improve Recruitment and Retention Efforts for Prosecutors Act (HIRRE Prosecutors Act) of 2025. The legislation would allow local governments to better support, hire, train, and retain local prosecutors critical to protecting local public safety. The HIRRE Prosecutors Act would create a competitive federal grant program to better assist district attorneys in prosecuting cases and protecting the rule of law, with the staff and resources they need to get the job done. Rep. Joe Neguse (CO-02) is also co-leading this effort. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many local prosecutors’ offices have seen increased turnover. Some states have seen turnover rates as high as 43.5% in a single year, struggling to both retain and fill the staff critical to upholding the law. Unlike police departments, local prosecutors receive little to no federal assistance. The HIRRE Prosecutors Act would address that gap through a new program modeled on the successful, decades-old COPS Hiring Program, which would invest $10 million annually in the hiring, training, and retention of prosecutors and staff. “Our local officials lack essential resources to effectively prosecute offenders. This legislation would provide support through the Department of Justice, helping to stabilize police departments and strengthen local attorney offices responsible for prosecuting cases,”said Rep. Bacon. “For those facing staffing and resource shortages in Nebraska, the added support from this bill would help ensure that cases are handled efficiently and fairly. Specifically, the HIRRE Prosecutors Act would establish a program offering competitive grants to district attorneys’ offices, with the goal of reinforcing public trust in the legal process.” “For far too long, our local district attorneys’ offices haven’t had the resources they need to compete with private, better-paying law firms for top talent,” said Rep. Panetta. “The HIRRE Prosecutors Act would create a first-of-its-kind federal grant program to invest in the legal talent needed to work as prosecutors and hold people accountable. With these types of grants, the federal government can play its part to help our local prosecutors’ offices properly seek truth and justice and help enhance public safety.” “I’m proud to join Rep. Panetta in support of this historic program that provides support for our state, territorial, local, and tribal prosecutors, who work each and every day to protect the public,” said Rep. Neguse. “This bill, the HIRRE Prosecutors Act, will ensure that communities across the nation, especially folks in our rural and mountain communities, can recruit and retain qualified attorneys.” “Since the pandemic, district attorney offices have faced significant recruitment and retention challenges, which has been exacerbated by a lack of federal support needed to address workforce shortages” said Brian R. Marvel, President of the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC). “The HIRRE Prosecutors Act is a critical step to remedy this – establishing a grant program that mirrors the support currently given to local law enforcement through the COPS Hiring Program to ensure that district attorneys’ offices have the resources they need to prosecute cases and uphold the rule of law in our communities. Thank you, Congressman Panetta, for your leadership and commitment to supporting local district attorneys across the country.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congress-floods-bipartisan-bill-making-accredited-investor-status-merit-based,Congress Flood's Bipartisan Bill Making Accredited Investor Status Merit-Based Included in House-Passed INVEST Act,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the ""INVEST Act."" The bill is a package of various measures, including U.S. Congressman Mike Flood’s “Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act.” Congressman Flood issued the following statement after the INVEST Act’s passage. “The INVEST Act is a bipartisan bill that expands access to capital for small businesses and startups, creates greater opportunity for retail investors, and improves the health of our public markets. I’m particularly excited that one of my bills, the Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act, is a part of this package. Thank you to Chairman Hill, Congresswoman Wagner, Congressman Meeks, and everyone who has contributed to this effort and I look forward to working together to deliver the INVEST Act to President Trump’s desk.” The INVEST Act combines various independent bills to achieve the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-highlights-key-provisions-included-landmark-housing-21st,Congressman Flood Highlights Key Provisions Included in Landmark ‘Housing for the 21st Century Act',2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Image December 11, 2025 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood released a statement following the introduction of the historic ""Housing for the 21st Century Act."" The bill, introduced by Congressman Flood, Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill, Ranking Member Maxine Waters, as well as Congressman Emanuel Cleaver is a broad array of legislation addressing the housing crisis in America, including several bills sponsored by Congressman Flood. “As housing gets more expensive, the American Dream of homeownership is slipping away for working families. This package is the product of bipartisan work in the Financial Services Committee to address some of the core issues driving up the cost of housing. I want to thank Chairman Hill, Ranking Member Waters and my counterpart on the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver for working together to produce this strong, bipartisan package. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation through the committee, move it across the House floor, and ultimately to get these critical reforms enacted into law.” Congressman Flood serves as Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee as well as the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus. More information on the Housing for the 21st Century Act can be read here. The bills that Congressman Flood previously introduced that are included in the Housing for the 21st Century Act are listed below: The HOME Reform Act “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Congressman Flood. “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation."" The HOME Reform Act modernizes the HOME Investment Partnership Program by exempting projects from NEPA and Build America, Buy America requirements as well as establishing a “small project” exemption under Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968. The bill raises income eligibility to 100% of area median income, extends the time communities have to commit funds, updates definitions of affordable single and multifamily housing, as well as allows funds to be used for infrastructure tied directly to new housing, such as sidewalks, sewers, and utility connections. Read the initial press release on the HOME Reform Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). The Housing Supply Frameworks Act “We need an all-of-the-above approach to addressing America’s housing crisis,"" said Congressman Flood. ""To this end, the Housing Supply Frameworks Act helps establish suggested best practices for state and local governments across the country who want to break down barriers holding back development and innovation in housing and construction. This legislation is one small but important step towards bringing down the cost of housing and makes it more accessible and affordable to communities nationwide.” The House Supply Frameworks Act requires HUD to publish best practices and guidelines to assist communities in maintaining modern local and state zoning frameworks that support the production of adequate housing options at every income level. Read the initial press release on the Housing Supply Frameworks Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (D-CO). The Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act ""Housing affordability is a major concern for communities nationwide. As Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, I have remained focused on commonsense, consensus-building efforts to find meaningful solutions to America’s housing crisis. This bipartisan bill helps accomplish that goal by shedding light on onerous local zoning and development policies so we can build more housing,” said Congressman Flood. The Identifying Regulatory barriers to Housing Supply Act requires communities that receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program funds to submit to HUD information regarding their implementation of certain land-use policies, such as policies for expanding high-density single-family and multifamily zoning. Read the initial press release on the Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen(D-CO). The Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act “America has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,” said Congressman Flood. “Manufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards."" The Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act clarifies that the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the primary regulator as it relates to all manufactured housing building standards. Read the initial press release on the Streamlining Manufactured Housing Starts Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act “The Unlocking Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act is an important step towards increasing housing supply in America,” said Congressman Flood. “Environmental reviews can slow housing projects by months- or even years. Currently, those reviews are not properly tailored to the size and scale of housing projects. This legislation is a meaningful step towards fixing that problem.” The Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act streamlines the environmental review process for a range of Department of Housing and Urban Development building activities. Read the initial press release on the Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act here. The bill was co-introduced by Congressman Sam Liccardo (D-CA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-applauds-bipartisan-passage-ndaa-investment-offutt-air-force,"Congressman Flood Applauds Bipartisan Passage of NDAA, Investment in Offutt Air Force Base",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2026, which provides for annual defense spending, secures additional funding for Offutt AFB, and delivers a 3.8% pay raise for all U.S. service members. “This must-pass bill authorizes annual military spending and represents a robust investment in America’s national defense. I am pleased that members of our Armed Forces will receive a 3.8% pay raise and that we’re investing $42.35 million in Offutt Air Force Base with three projects related to the new Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC). As we continue to work to grow the future of Offutt, these investments will ensure that the base stays strong for years to come.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2833,Bacon Co-leads Bipartisan Action to Prevent ACA Premium Spikes and Protect Affordable Healthcare,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act delivers a practical, passable solution to avert year-end crisis WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) joined Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Tom Suozzi (NY-02), Jared Golden (ME-02), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), and Donald G. Davis (NC-01), to introduce the Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act, a two-party, targeted solution to prevent a sharp jump in healthcare costs as current protections expire and ensure millions of Americans can maintain affordable coverage. Without immediate congressional action, the scheduled expiration of the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits would result in steep, sudden cost increases and widespread loss of coverage—destabilizing the healthcare markets working families rely upon. “I’m glad we’re moving the debate forward on extending and reforming the Affordable Care Act subsidies. I’ve made clear to my colleagues on both sides that Congress needs a smart, bipartisan agreement that prevents our constituents’ health insurance premiums from skyrocketing,” said Rep. Bacon. “That’s why I worked with Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, Jared Golden, Tom Suozzi, Rob Bresnahan, and Don Davis to introduce the Bipartisan Health Coverage Affordability Act, another reasonable compromise that extends the enhanced premium tax credits for two years and applies new income caps and fraud protections. This may not be the final package Congress adopts, but it’s a responsible compromise that can help break the gridlock and protect families from higher costs.” Key Provisions of the Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act The legislation advances five reforms designed to protect affordability, strengthen accountability, and ensure taxpayer value: Prevents premium spikes: Extends enhanced premium tax credits through 2027, to protect families from abrupt monthly cost increases. Restores Consumer Control: Stops unauthorized plan and subsidy changes by requiring consent and prompt notification before any modifications take effect. Shines Light on Middlemen: Ends hidden spread pricing, severs PBM profits from drug prices, and requires full rebate pass-through to ensure savings reach patients. Gives Families New Tools to Manage Costs: Expands access to Health Savings Accounts and simplifies premium payments to reduce disruptions in coverage. Smart Stewardship of Taxpayer Dollars: Modernizes eligibility and introduces a reasonable minimum contribution to protect long-term affordability and responsible stewardship of federal dollars. “From the outset, I committed to delivering a bipartisan solution to prevent devastating premium spikes—today, we are doing exactly that. Our bill keeps the ACA’s premium tax credits in place, so families are not blindsided with unaffordable increases in the care they depend on,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “This is a practical, people-first fix that protects families now, while preserving the space to keep working toward a stronger, smarter, more affordable healthcare system. When the stakes are this high, responsible governance means securing 80 percent of what families need today rather than risking 100 percent of nothing tomorrow. We built this the right way—with input from across the aisle and across chambers—with the clearest pathway to the President’s desk. We’re ready to get this done, and we call on our colleagues to step up, join us, and put American families, not political messaging, first.” ""The expiration of the ACA Premium Tax Credits on 12/31/25 would create an avoidable crisis for millions of Americans who will face an explosion of their healthcare premiums. We need a bipartisan solution now, and we must battle against the petty partisan interests that put politics above people. Simply put, while this bill is not perfect, it is a short-term, reasonable solution that prevents catastrophic premium spikes. If enacted, we must use the reprieve to craft long-term reforms to lower healthcare costs in the long run: incentivizing preventative care, lowering drug prices, and cracking down on wasteful bureaucracy and abuse in our system. To get there, we must work together now, and act with the urgency this moment demands,"" said Rep. Suozzi “We have known for months that there is no way for either party to address the looming health care cliff alone. It’s long past time that members and leaders in Congress come together to prevent catastrophic coverage price spikes for millions of Americans,” said Rep. Golden. “The Bipartisan Health Coverage Affordability Act preserves the ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits for the families who need them most, implements sensible income caps to reduce costs and better target benefits and cracks down on prescription drug middlemen. This moment requires leaders to abandon their partisan corners and govern. Our bill provides a path out of gridlock and toward solutions.” “Congress must act swiftly to bring certainty and reduce anxiety. We must promote greater accountability and ensure families do not lose vital health coverage or face bankruptcy due to medical emergencies,” said Rep. Davis. “Families across Northeastern Pennsylvania have expressed that affordability is a key concern in our healthcare system,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “This bipartisan effort to extend ACA tax credits has the potential to help working families keep more money in their pockets and maintain the coverage they rely on.” Read the full bill text here. Background: The Affordable Care Act established premium tax credits to help families afford coverage. To prevent sharp price increases during recent years of inflation, Congress temporarily enhanced those credits in 2021 and extended them through 2025 while broader reforms continued to be debated. That extension now expires at year’s end. Without a targeted fix, millions would see immediate and significant premium spikes on January 1—jeopardizing household budgets and destabilizing the individual market. Recognizing both the urgency and the responsibility to deliver a real solution, Fitzpatrick has led months of bipartisan engagement to produce a plan that is responsible, passable, and ready to go. The Bipartisan Health Insurance Affordability Act reflects that work, providing the protections families need now and a durable framework for continuing long-term efforts to bring down healthcare costs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-joins-bipartisan-bill-support-growing-saf-industry,Congressman Flood Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Growing SAF Industry,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Flood (R-NE-01) – alongside Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), and Tracey Mann (R-KS-01) – introduced the Securing America’s Fuels (SAF) Act. The bipartisan legislation is designed to strengthen the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, create economic opportunities for our farmers, and reduce emissions in the transportation sector. “America is on the cusp of the next great biofuels revolution,” said Representative Mike Flood (R-NE-01). “The Securing America’s Fuels Act is yet another way Congress can grow our bio economy and encourage innovation that creates great jobs across rural America. Sustainable aviation fuel will help lower emissions while expanding domestic markets for our nation’s farmers, ensuring that our ag economy thrives for generations to come. I want to thank Congresswoman Davids for introducing this much-needed bill and look forward to working together to advance this commonsense, bipartisan bill through Congress.” “Investing in sustainable aviation fuel isn’t just good for the environment — it’s good for Kansas farmers, our communities, and our economy,” said Representative Shanice Davids (D-KS-03) . “The SAF Act ensures that clean fuel production incentives are strong and long-term so businesses, farmers, and innovators can plan for the future with confidence. The bipartisan support shows the incredible potential we have to build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous future for generations to come.” “Sustainable aviation fuel is a worthwhile investment for American agriculture and for American energy dominance,” said Representative Tracey Mann (R-KS-01). “The Securing America’s Fuels Act gives Kansas farmers the certainty they need to plan, invest, and keep supplying fuel to the country and our aviation sector. I will always support legislation that supports rural communities and helps the United States continue to lead the world in producing the fuels of tomorrow.” ""Without coordinated action between government and industry, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to increase as more people and goods fly through our skies,” said Representative Troy Carter (D-LA-02). “Sustainable aviation fuel is an exciting, new green fuel that’s creating jobs in Louisiana and driving demand for American agricultural products. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure America is on track to meet the growing demand for cleaner transportation and healthier communities.” The sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry currently relies on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to make production economically viable. While recent legislation extended the credit for all clean fuels, it eliminated the SAF-specific bonus. To address this challenge, the SAF Act would: Reinstate the SAF bonus credit, allowing qualifying SAF producers to receive up to $0.35 or $1.75 per gallon. Extend the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit for all clean fuels through 2033, providing long-term stability for the growing clean fuels industry. SAF is a game-changer for local communities, agriculture, and the transportation industry. Scaling SAF to meet U.S. goals could generate 33,000 construction jobs over five years, sustain 4,500 permanent operations jobs, and support 60,000 jobs in agriculture and logistics by 2030. SAF can also reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent, delivering major environmental benefits while using existing aviation infrastructure. Support for the SAF Act The bipartisan legislation is endorsed by major industry and agricultural groups, including National Corn Growers Association, SAF Coalition, Airlines for America, Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Kansas Farm Bureau, Renew Kansas, Kansas Corn, Kansas Soybean Association, Greater New Orleans Inc., Twelve, Darling Ingredients, Louisiana Farm Bureau Foundation, Advanced Biofuels Association, Global Business Travel Association, and American Sugarcane League. “The SAF Coalition applauds Reps. Sharice Davids and Mike Flood for their leadership in introducing The Securing America’s Fuels Act,” said Alison Graab, Executive Director, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Coalition. “This legislation continues the broad, bipartisan support for SAF in Congress and recognizes SAF’s unique ability to fuel America’s energy dominance while supporting American farmers. The SAF Coalition urges Congress to pass this legislation so we can grow America’s rural economies, create new markets for our farmers and secure a stronger energy future for our nation.” ""The development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) holds great promise for Nebraska biofuels producers as well as Nebraska's farmers and ranchers,” said Mark McHargue, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. “We appreciate the leadership of Nebraska Congressman Mike Flood in offering this legislation that provides incentives that will help get this emerging industry off the ground. Nebraska Farm Bureau stands ready to work to get this legislation approved and help Nebraska become the SAF epicenter of the country."" “Agriculture and aviation are crucial to Kansas’ economy and Kansas Farm Bureau appreciates Rep. Sharice Davids’ leadership in introducing the Securing America’s Fuels Act alongside Rep. Tracey Mann. Incentivizing the use of domestic crops to produce sustainable fuels creates a new market for Kansas farmers while lowering the carbon emissions of the aviation industry,” said Joe Newland, President, Kansas Farm Bureau. “It is crucial that Congress finds ways to support farmers with good domestic policy, at this time when international trade negotiations have left farmers in difficult market conditions,” said Richard Fotenot, President, Louisiana Farm Bureau. “Congressional policy changes can also provide relief to American consumers. The SAF Act does both. It creates consistency in domestic aviation fuel markets in a sustainable manner important to consumers. We are grateful to Congressman Carter and his colleagues for continuing to find ways to support these efforts through ideas like the SAF Act.” “SAF may offer a great opportunity for sugarcane farmers,” said Jack Pettus, VP of Government Relations, American Sugar Cane League. “Our mills use bagasse, the fibrous byproduct of recovering sugar from the sugarcane plant, to power their operations during harvest season. Our farmers have been growing and delivering this renewable fuel for over a century and we are anxious to find new uses for the excess biofuel (bagasse) that we currently produce. The American Sugar Cane League appreciates this bipartisan effort to identify and encourage demand for domestic renewable energy feedstocks in markets like aviation fuels.” “The Advanced Biofuels Association strongly supports this bipartisan effort to strengthen sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producers and improve the overall availability of renewable fuels for America’s airline industry,” said Michael McAdams, President, Advanced Biofuels Association. “This type of legislation is essential in the United States’ effort to achieve its energy dominance policy agenda.” “Delta applauds Reps. Flood, Davids, Mann, and Carter for their leadership in introducing the Securing America's Fuels Act, which will ensure 45Z reaches its full potential and provides the critical investment certainty necessary to bring additional SAF production facilities online to meet our industry's unprecedented demand for cost-competitive, homegrown fuels,"" said Cherie Wilson, Vice President, Government Affairs - Sustainability, Delta Air Lines.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-commends-trump-addressing-ag-concerns-calls-more-trade-progress,Smith Commends Trump for Addressing Ag Concerns; Calls for More Trade Progress,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after a White House event announcing federal support for agriculture producers impacted by ongoing trade disputes. “I appreciate President Trump and his administration recognizing the challenges faced by American producers during ongoing trade negotiations. U.S. farmers and ranchers utilize world-leading practices to produce high quality food, strengthening our economy and national security. Through no fault of their own, producers have faced increasingly volatile market conditions in recent years due to weather, input prices, and unfair trading practices from our partners. “While supporting producers during this critical time is important, it is not a permanent solution. Nebraska farmers and ranchers dedicate their lives to producing because they want to sell their goods at home and abroad for a fair price. It is vital President Trump and his trade negotiators continue opening new markets and ensuring fair treatment of American agriculture around the globe. I appreciate the strong progress made by the administration so far, and I look forward to working with them to achieve additional agreements and ensure our partners fulfill their commitments.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-president-trumps-ag-relief-announcement-supports-our-farm,Congressman Flood: President Trump’s Ag Relief Announcement Supports Our Farm & Ranch Families,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following U.S. President Donald Trump and United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ announcement of $12 billion in relief for America’s farmers and ranchers. “Once again, President Trump is delivering for America's farmers and ranchers. Today’s announcement provides much-needed bridge relief as the administration continues to deliver new trade deals and open up markets for our products around the world. Over the last year, the Trump administration has increased market access in countries like Vietnam, Japan, and Indonesia and put pressure on China to buy more American products, including soybeans. I look forward to working with the administration and Secretary Rollins to continue expanding domestic and international markets through measures like year-round E15, securing a new Farm Bill, new trade deals, and more.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-rev-franklin-graham,Smith Statement on Rev. Franklin Graham,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement following reports indicating Rev. Franklin Graham was denied a visa by the Indian government on religious grounds. “For generations the Graham family have been leaders in demonstrating their faith in Christ through acts of charity to the poorest among us around the world and by sharing the gospel with all those who freely choose to hear it. “The decision by India’s federal government to deny Rev. Graham a visa is a troubling affront to Indian Christians and the Indian constitution’s protections for freedom of religion. The discriminatory treatment of Rev. Graham, prohibiting him from visiting a region where he was invited and expected to be warmly welcomed by thousands who share his faith does not align with Prime Minister Modi’s promises to work toward improved ties with the United States nor with his promises to protect religious minorities.” Rev. Graham had been invited to participate in an event with thousands of Christians in Nagaland, a majority Christian state in Northeast India. His organization, Samaritan’s Purse, has provided relief, aid, and religious resources to Indians for more than forty years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-subcommittee-chairman-flood-american-dream-buying-home,"Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Flood: “The American Dream of Buying a Home is Further Out of Reach for our Country’s Young People""",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) delivered remarks and questioned witnesses over burdensome housing red tape during a House Financial Services Committee hearing. The full committee hearing, entitled 'Building Capacity: Reducing Government Roadblocks to Housing Supply' highlighted various barriers to increasing the construction of affordable housing in America. Congressman Flood, who serves as Chairman of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks and questioned witnesses on the commonsense, pro-market solutions and findings developed by his subcommittee over the year. Footage of Congressman Flood's opening remarks can be found here, while video of his questions can be accessed here. Congressman Flood’s opening remarks, as prepared, are provided below. News outlets are welcome to use these videos for reporting purposes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Housing costs have been rising in this country for the last several years, and this problem is taking its toll. Housing affordability affects everyone. For example, the American Dream of buying a home is further out of reach for our country’s young people. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median age of a first-time homebuyer today is astoundingly 40 years old. The reason for this affordability problem is simple: we are not building enough homes in this country to meet the demand. This committee, and the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, have been working on solutions that will cut costs, remove government barriers and unleash more building across the country. This hearing today is the latest step in that work. We have a wide range of bills noticed today that would address different aspects of the problem. Whether it be zoning and land-use policies at the state and local level or labor and procurement policies at the federal level—our work is largely focused on addressing current government barriers that make it harder to build at the scale required to meet demand. I am excited that our committee is taking action, and I look forward to our markup at the end of this month. I yield back. The full committee hearing also included six bills introduced by Congressman Flood that were on notice, including his landmark, bipartisan HOME Reform Act of 2025. Additional bills sponsored by Congressman Flood are the Housing Supply Frameworks Act, the Identifying Regulatory Barriers to Housing Supply Act, the Unlocking Housing Supply Through Streamlined and Modernized Reviews Act, as well as H.R. 5263.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-celebrates-streaming-services-carrying-c-span-suite,Congressman Flood Celebrates Streaming Services for Carrying C-SPAN Suite,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) delivered remarks on the House floor ahead of the expected launch of the C-SPAN networks on the streaming services YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. The speech follows a year-long effort by Congressman Flood and others who called on streaming services to carry C-SPAN as satellite and cable providers do. A video of his remarks can be accessed by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. The full text of Congressman Flood’s speech is provided below. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to applaud YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV for expanding public access to Congress by carrying C-SPAN, C-SPAN2, and C-SPAN3 beginning next week. For 46 years C-SPAN’s respected nonprofit service has offered Americans unfiltered gavel-to-gavel coverage of their government in action. However, millions of streaming households were left without this vital window into the debates and decisions which shape our nation. By adding the C-SPAN networks, YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are making a strong, and I hope enduring, commitment to public service, transparency, and civic engagement. They now join cable and satellite providers like Comcast, Charter, Cox, DirecTV, and Dish in supporting a treasured service that strengthens accountability and confidence in our democratic systems. This is a big win for the American people. Full access will help inform the public no matter how they choose to watch. I thank YouTube TV, I thank Hulu + Live TV for their important decision, and I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-2025-2026-youth-advisory-council-members,Smith Announces 2025-2026 Youth Advisory Council Members,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) has announced the names of the Third District high school students serving on his Youth Advisory Council for the 2025-2026 academic school year. Youth Advisory Council members include: Ava Wenzel of Arthur Dominic Kouba of Auburn Megan Macklin of Blue Hill Paxton Burke of Stromsburg Colton Zehendner of Pleasanton Bennett Murdoch of Grand Island Matthew Rosenlund of Grand Island Madeline Caskey of Ogallala Lillie Uhing of Chadron Bianca McDonald of Scottsbluff Addison Peck of Scottsbluff Smith’s Youth Advisory Council is a forum for high school students to discuss opinions, thoughts, and concerns about local and federal issues with Smith throughout the school year. Through in-person meetings and other contacts, the council provides students with an opportunity for involvement and insight into their government and communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2829,Bacon Named One of Most Effective Lawmakers in 118th Congress,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – The Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL), a partnership between the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy and Vanderbilt University, released its Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores for the 118th Congress, ranking Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) as the most effective Republican House Member in the Defense policy area. This recognition follows CEL’s announcement earlier this year naming Rep. Bacon one of the top effective legislators overall for the 118th Congress. Rep. Bacon was ranked second overall in the Republican Party for effectiveness, scoring high in defense, Native Americans, banking and commerce, and law, crime and family issue areas. CEL's Legislative Effectiveness Scores methodology combines fifteen metrics capturing how many bills each member of Congress sponsors in a given issue area, how far those bills advance through the lawmaking process, and the substance of their policy proposals. In the Defense category, Rep. Bacon earned a score of 36.1 compared to 10.6 for his Democrat colleague Mark Takano (CA-39). You can view CEL’s complete Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores here. “Since coming to Congress in 2016, I have embraced cooperation and creativity to get things done for Nebraskans and I thank the Center for Effective Lawmaking for this recognition,” said Rep. Bacon. “I am willing to work with anyone who shares my desire to make life better for Americans, and I look forward to continuing that level of effectiveness in the 119th Congress.” The Center for Effective Lawmaking said the following in their announcement: “Our analysis found that Representative Bacon ranked as the most effective Republican House Member in the policy area of Defense in the last Congress. This is in addition to our previous analysis showing him as one of the most effective Republican House Members in the last Congress overall, as well as the most effective Representative in terms of having their sponsored standalone bills substantially incorporated into the laws of other members of Congress. We congratulate the Representative for his hard work and setting an example for promoting the importance of effective lawmaking.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2830,"Bacon, Tokuda, Moore, Introduce Bill Requiring 24-Hour Notice of Alleged Abuse in Military Child Care Programs",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), and Blake Moore (R-UT-01) introduced legislation requiring military child and youth programs to notify parents or guardians within 24 hours after learning of alleged or suspected abuse or neglect involving their children that occurred at a military child development center or similar program. The Military Child and Youth Program Abuse and Neglect Notification Act would codify a Department of Defense (DOD) policy that was established after it became known that the Department had no requirement to notify parents in such cases. This legislation also goes beyond current policy by requiring the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, as well as members of Congress who represent the district where the alleged abuse or neglect occurred, be notified within 72 hours. “No parent should ever be kept in the dark when it comes to the safety of their child. I’m glad to co-lead the Military Child and Youth Program Abuse and Neglect Notification Act with Rep. Tokuda, which requires programs to notify parents within 24 hours of any suspected abuse or neglect, no exceptions. Our bipartisan bill also requires notifying the Armed Services committees and the Members of Congress for the installation where the incident happened within 72 hours to provide real oversight and ensure these failures are never repeated.” said Rep. Bacon. “Parents who entrust their keiki to a military child care center deserve one guarantee: if something happens, they will be told quickly, clearly, and without exception. No family should ever be kept in the dark when it comes to their child’s health, safety, and well-being,” said Rep. Tokuda. “As the mother of two boys, we must demand nothing less for our military families, and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, we must ensure effective Congressional oversight and accountability across the military child care system, because no federal agency should be allowed to hide the truth.” ""As the congressional representative of Hill Air Force Base and father to four boys, it is an honor to serve our military community and their families. I’m proud to co-lead legislation that would require the DOD to immediately brief parents over suspected abuse or neglect of minors at DOD childcare facilities and create additional congressional oversight mechanisms. We must do all we can to ensure safe and healthy environments for all children, including those under the DOD’s care,” said Rep. Moore. Language in the Military Child and Youth Program Abuse and Neglect Notification Act is also included in the House-passed Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, demonstrating strong bipartisan support for transparency and protection of military families. This legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Robert J. Wittman (R-VA-01), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10),Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Ed Case (D-HI-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-00), Jennifer A. Kiggans (R-VA-02), André Carson (D-IN-07), Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29), and Donald Davis (D-NC-01). Full text of the legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-names-madison-middle-schooler-first-districts-2025,Congressman Flood Names Madison Middle Schooler as First District’s 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Madison Middle School student Avery Stueckrath as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Nebraska’s First District. Stueckrath designed a webpage using JavaScript to showcase her coding skills by illustrating scenes and images of herself, her hobbies, and her cats through custom-designed shapes. “Every year, I am impressed by the talent and skills our schools are developing across the First District,” said Congressman Flood. “Avery Steuckrath’s webpage design and coding skills – paired with her persistence during development – are yet another example of how Nebraska continues to build its reputation as the 'Silicon Prairie.' I want to thank all the students who submitted their projects for this year’s App Challenge and encourage students interested in developing their coding skills to join next year’s competition."" Avery Stueckrath, the daughter of Jesse and Jackie Stueckrath, is an 8th grader at Madison Middle School. She was encouraged to design the webpage by her technology teacher, Bobbie Middleton. Stueckrath's submission was reviewed by a committee of professionals working in the start-up and digital community from the First Congressional District. Each year, Congress hosts the 'Congressional App Challenge,' a competition among students from every Congressional District to design an app and promote student engagement in computer science.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-thanksgiving-holiday-statement,Congressman Flood’s Thanksgiving Holiday Statement,2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement ahead of this year’s Thanksgiving holiday, which will be observed on November 27th. “As family and friends gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s an opportunity for all of us to express our gratitude to God and one another for the blessings we’ve enjoyed this past year. Whether you were born in the Cornhusker State or moved here for new opportunities, we enjoy an incredible life. From Norfolk to Lincoln and Plattsmouth to Columbus and beyond, we live in the best place in the world to live, work, and raise a family. From Mandi and me and our sons, we hope you have a blessed holiday and a very happy Thanksgiving.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-castor-reintroduce-access-genetic-counselor-services-act,"Smith, Castor Reintroduce the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Kathy Castor (D-FL) recently introduced the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, legislation which would allow for Medicare reimbursement to licensed genetic counselors for services which would otherwise be reimbursable if provided by a physician. Genetic counselors have extensive training in identifying which tests are most appropriate for a particular patient, and how to interpret test results to best inform the patient’s plan of care. With a wide variety of tests available on the market, leveraging the knowledge and experience of a genetic counselor can save both patients and the taxpayer money by avoiding unnecessary testing and allowing physicians to focus their time on what they do best – treating patients. “Expanded access to genetic counseling will improve the lives of seniors across the country” said Rep. Smith. “Rapidly advancing technology and ever-growing knowledge of the human genome and its relationship with our health means seniors will be able to identify risks and diseases even earlier, improving outcomes and lowering treatment costs.” “Genetic counselors guide and support patients and their families through some of the most difficult moments in their lives with expertise and compassion, and are an integral part of the care team,” said Rep. Castor. “I am proud that the University of South Florida is home to the first and only Genetic Counseling Graduate Program in the State, preparing students with the technical knowledge and clinical expertise to treat our neighbors. The common-sense, cost-effective Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act would help grow the genetic counseling profession and ensure our neighbors get the most accurate care.” “Recognizing genetic counselors as Medicare providers would be tremendously valuable in ensuring patients receive timely, appropriate, and high-quality care. Many cancers have a genetic component, and it is genetic counselors who provide the critical expertise and reassurance families need to understand testing options and familial risk. That is why Cancer Partners of Nebraska proudly supports the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, led by Congressman Adrian Smith and Congresswoman Kathy Castor, which will benefit countless seniors, including those here in Nebraska,” saidJustin Rousek, PhD, MPH, MS, CEO at Cancer Partners of Nebraska. “Genetic counselors are specifically trained to help patients understand complex test results, weigh options, and make informed decisions for themselves and their families,” saidDeborah Cragun, PhD, MS, CGC, Director of USF Genetic Counseling Graduate Program. “Allowing Medicare to directly reimburse for services provided by genetic counselors is a practical step toward more equitable, person-centered genomic care. By supporting the Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act, Representative Castor is advancing a policy that improves access, supports high-quality care, and uses health-care dollars more wisely.” “Genetic counselors serve as connectors to the personalized care that could make all the difference for Medicare patients and their families facing diseases like hereditary cancer and Alzheimer’s disease,” said Sara Pirzadeh-Miller, MS, CGC, president of the National Society of Genetic Counselors and a cancer genetic counselor in Texas. “We’re so grateful that Representatives Smith and Castor, plus many others in Congress, understand the tremendous value that genetic counselors offer for their constituents and America’s healthcare system.” Read the full letter text of the bill here. Supporting Organizations:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2824,Rep. Bacon Announces Chamber Support for Legislation to Restore Congress’ Constitutional Role in Trade,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) announced he has received support from the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Omaha Chamber of Commerce and Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for his bipartisan legislation to return Congress’ constitutionally authorized role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy. H.R. 2665 The Trade Review Act of 2025 requires that unilateral tariffs proposed by the executive branch receive congressional authority. “By requiring clear justification and timely review of new tariffs, the Trade Review Act of 2025 helps prevent disruptive cost swings and strengthens Nebraska companies’ ability to keep Nebraska’s economy competitive and growing,” said Todd Bingham, President and CEO of the NE Chamber of Commerce & Industry. “This legislation delivers real benefits for Nebraska businesses by bringing greater stability and predictability to U.S. trade policy. Nebraska Chamber members across industries – from agriculture to manufacturing – depend on consistent markets and manageable input costs. We thank Rep. Bacon for being a strong advocate for Nebraska and its world-class businesses.” “We hear from businesses every day that unexpected tariff actions are driving up costs, delaying investments, and threatening the long-term competitiveness of Nebraska. H.R. 2665 introduces the level of transparency, accountability, and congressional oversight that our employers urgently need,” said Heath Mello, President & CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber. “By requiring timely economic impact assessments and ensuring Congress has a meaningful role, this legislation provides a more predictable environment for companies planning major capital investments. The Greater Omaha Chamber strongly supports this effort that gives employers the stability they need to grow and we thank Rep. Bacon for his leadership on this critical issue.” “The Lincoln Chamber appreciates Congressman Don Bacon’s leadership on trade and his assertion of congressional authority. Congressman Bacon’s Trade Review Act of 2025 gets it right. Congressional authority and pro-active engagement is vitally important in developing trade policies, which are so important to Nebraska’s economy.” – Jason Ball, President & CEO of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. “This administration has overstepped by imposing tariffs that are bad for American consumers and businesses alike. It's time to return tariff authority back to Congress and the people by passing this legislation,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m thankful for the support of Nebraska’s businesses as we work to return the power of imposing tariffs to the legislative branch, where it belongs.” Rep. Bacon has publicly stated his support for some tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration while also maintaining that the Constitution gives Congress the task of imposing tariffs under Article I Section 8. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2825,Rep. Bacon and 14 Bipartisan Colleagues in Letter to Sec Def on Ukraine Unmanned Aerial Systems,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last Friday, Reps. Don Bacon (R-NE), Wesley Bell (D-MO), Donald G. Davis (D-NC), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Michael T. McCaul (R-TX), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Eugene Simon Vindman (D-VA), Eric Sorensen (D-IL) and Joe Wilson (R-SC) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth requesting clarification on “existing authorities and appropriations provided to respond to the situation in Ukraine allow for U.S.–Ukraine collaboration, not only in the co-production of tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems and other unmanned platforms, but also in the full operational ecosystem that supports them.” Co-production and an operational partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine align with the goals and spirit of the President’s vision for a stronger, more innovative American military. Several of America’s adversaries are leveraging their experience from the war in Ukraine to advance AI-enabled warfare programs. The letter seeks confirmation from the Pentagon that current funding and policy would enable co-production. “We have seen in the Russian invasion of Ukraine that drones have revolutionized the way we think about warfare. The Ukrainians are pioneering the drone and counter-drone technology sectors, including everything from rapidly manufacturing and modifying to fielding and developing new tactics,” said Rep. Bacon. “This letter asks the Pentagon to lean into the incredible strides that Ukraine has made in this new way of war, by both investing in co-production of drone and counter-drone systems with the Ukrainians, and in carefully gathering lessons learned. If we do not do this work, it is guaranteed that our adversaries will.” “I’m joining Rep. Don Bacon in calling on the Department of Defense to allow for the increase of U.S.-Ukraine collaboration in Unmanned Aerial Systems that will help Ukraine secure itself and improve our national security. Developing drone capability is essential to America's 21st-century interests,” said Rep. Khanna. “Partnering with Ukraine on drone technology is not just about supporting a partner—it’s about ensuring the United States remains a leader in military innovation and safeguarding our position against global threats. I’m proud to join my colleagues in urging the Department of Defense to expand this collaboration and advance America’s next-generation drone capabilities,” said Rep. Quigley. You can read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-ag-trade-caucus-co-chairs-highlight-usmca-benefits-agriculture,"Smith, Ag Trade Caucus Co-Chairs Highlight USMCA Benefits for Agriculture",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressional Agriculture Trade Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Jim Costa (D-CA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) led 109 colleagues in sending a letter to Ambassador Jamieson Greer, the U.S. Trade Representative, highlighting how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) delivers for American agriculture. Since USMCA went into effect, overall U.S. agricultural exports to Mexico and Canada have increased by $10.7 billion and $7.6 billion respectively. The agreement’s binding provisions on technical barriers to trade, paired with its dispute settlement process, provide certainty for American agricultural producers. The Members emphasized the importance of fully enforcing the existing terms while addressing remaining barriers to U.S. agricultural products. “USMCA was truly a landmark agreement for American Agriculture when it entered force, and its positive impact on U.S. agriculture has yet to reach its maximum benefit,” wrote the Members. “At a time when economic challenges threaten the livelihood of family farms, producers need the certainty provided under USMCA more than ever.” Gregg Doud, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation said, “USMCA has delivered real value for America’s dairy farmers. While several dairy compliance issues remain to be addressed in the 2026 Joint Review, the duty-free trade into Mexico that USMCA preserved has allowed U.S. dairy exporters to partner with Mexico to meet growing demand. We thank Reps. Smith, Costa, Johnson and Panetta for their leadership in highlighting the importance of preserving USMCA’s market access provisions for the U.S. agricultural industry and fine-tuning the areas that need reform.” Krysta Harden, President and CEO, U.S. Dairy Export Council said, “Mexico and Canada are critical markets for U.S. dairy products with over 44 percent of last year’s exports destined for the two countries. USMCA has strengthened those ties with Mexico by providing certainty, clear rules, and a reliable path for growth. It is our hope that the Review will lead to just that result in our future USMCA trade with Canada as well. As dairy demand continues to rise across North America, it is vital that USMCA delivers strong trade ties and robust trade flows. USDEC strongly supports the bipartisan message coordinated by Reps. Smith, Costa, Johnson and Panetta today in support of maintaining and crucially further strengthening this important trade relationship in the 2026 Joint Review process.” “USMCA is extremely important to America’s corn growers whose top trading partners are Canada and Mexico,” said National Corn Growers Association President Jed Bower. “The agreement provides important tools that allow unfair actions to be challenged, as the United States successfully did when Mexico banned genetically modified corn. We need this agreement to be renewed to provide stability for our farmers.” “The USMCA has provided a strong foundation for North American trade since its negotiation under the first Trump administration. ASA appreciates Congressman Adrian Smith and members of Congress for their continued commitment to this vital agreement,” said Caleb Ragland, President of the American Soybean Association. “At a time when soybean farmers face uncertain market conditions, the USMCA offers much-needed stability and predictability in our most important export markets — helping ensure reliable access to customers, smoother movement of goods, and a rules-based system that protects U.S. agriculture.” “U.S. pork producers export over 25 percent of production. With Mexico and Canada as our first and fourth largest export markets, respectively, USMCA has provided continuity and removed market uncertainty in those markets,” said Duane Stateler, President of National Pork Producers Council. “The unmatched productivity of American agriculture means market access and trade relationships are critical to rural communities, and no deal is more important to the farm economy than the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement,” said John Bode, President and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association. “We are proud to stand by the leaders of the Ag Trade Caucus in their strong support for USMCA. Securing the future of this agreement is vitally important for producers and consumers across North America, and we urge the deal's renewal during the upcoming evaluation period.” “California Citrus Mutual (CCM) appreciates the Congressional Ag Trade Caucus and its bipartisan commitment to upholding USMCA's value for California Citrus growers and U.S agriculture. Ensuring tariff-free access to two of our top markets for U.S. citrus is pivotal for our growers. Canada is a top export destination for fresh U.S. citrus – with approximately $215 million worth of exports each year. Mexico is another key export market for fresh U.S. citrus, with $93 million exported in 2024. We are grateful for Co-Chairs Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Jim Costa (D-CA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) for their leadership and support."" “The USMCA agreement has delivered meaningful benefits for U.S. wine producers by supporting growth in Canada, our most important export market, and strengthening our competitiveness across North America,” said Robert P. “Bobby” Koch, CEO, Wine Institute. “While recent challenges persist, preserving USMCA’s framework is critical to ensuring the long-term success of the U.S. wine industry.” “The National Turkey Federation is grateful for Congressional support reaffirming USMCA’s value to U.S. agriculture,” said Leslee Oden, President and CEO of National Turkey Federation. “This agreement has provided a strong foundation for North American trade, and we look forward to working with USTR to build on that success and explore opportunities that further enhance the benefits for U.S. turkey producers.” “The USMCA has played a vital role in strengthening North American horticulture by ensuring that essential inputs move freely across our borders and giving growers the predictability they need to operate with confidence. As the agreement enters its formal review, it is critical that policymakers maintain the duty-free, integrated framework that has allowed the horticulture sector to thrive. Protecting these benefits is key to preserving the stability, affordability, and economic vitality that USMCA provides to our industry,” stated Ken Fisher, AmericanHort President & CEO. “We thank these Members for their commitment to preserving and expanding the benefits that USMCA delivers to American agriculture and homegrown biofuels,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “This agreement benefits consumers, strengthens rural communities, and enhances energy security. Growth Energy is pleased to lend our support to consistent USMCA enforcement and a level playing field for American farmers and biofuel producers.” “NGFA applauds the Congressional Agriculture Trade Caucus’s efforts to ensure that the USMCA can continue to be one of the most successful trade agreements in our sector’s history. This landmark trade deal delivers predictable, rules-based market access that strengthens American agriculture and supports hundreds of thousands of U.S. jobs,” said Mike Seyfert, President and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association. ""As the United States undertakes this review, we must build on a success story that has benefited the grain and feed markets. NGFA strongly encourages the administration to ensure that USMCA’s core benefits are protected and expanded to keep the agriculture competitive and secure.” “We appreciate the Caucus Co-chairs’ leadership advocating on behalf of a broad base of agricultural stakeholders supporting the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) as we move into the review next year. One of the advantages of this agreement is the enforcement mechanisms available to deal with violations that restrict free and fair trade,” said Kent Swisher, President & CEO of the North American Renderers Association (NARA). “For example, NARA is urging trade negotiators to spotlight an unfair value-added tax that Mexico is applying retroactively to imported feed ingredients such as rendered animal protein meals. It amounts to a de facto tariff that violates USMCA. Full enforcement of the existing agreement will resolve this issue.” The Organic Produce Association (OPA) appreciates the leadership of Congressmen Adrian Smith, Jimmy Panetta, Dusty Johnson, and Jim Costa for highlighting the importance of USMCA to U.S. agriculture. USMCA serves as a critical trade agreement for organic produce, enabling U.S. growers to access top produce export markets of Mexico and Canada tariff-free, and ensuring consumer access to organic produce year-round. OPA is grateful for the broad bipartisan recognition of USMCA’s positive impacts on U.S. agriculture ahead of the Joint Review of this key trade agreement. ""The U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) has been greatly beneficial to the farmers and ranchers of Nebraska. As our closest geological and economic neighbors, it only makes sense to have a strong reciprocal trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, Nebraska's two largest agricultural trading partners. As we said during the original USMCA negotiations, we urge a ""do no harm"" approach when it comes to the ""joint review"" of the agreement. At the same time, enforcement must continue to be at the top of the list when it comes to further negotiations between our three countries. Nebraska farm and ranch families celebrated the original passage of the agreement, and we look forward to continuing to build our trading relationship with both Mexico and Canada,"" said Mark McHargue, President of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation. “The Nebraska Corn Growers Association appreciates Congressman Adrian Smith for his leadership and continued support of the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement,” said NeCGA president Michael Dibbern. “Mexico and Canada are leading trading partners for Nebraska corn growers, and extending the foundation of trade that USMCA has developed is a top priority.” Nebraska Cattlemen president Dick Pierce stated, “The USMCA provides cattle producers with duty-free access to Canda and Mexico, which are both top five markets for U.S. beef and cattle. We appreciate Congressman Smith’s leadership to help ensure producers are considered throughout the USMCA review process as market-based, rules-based, and science-based trade deals are crucial to our success.” “Nebraska’s pork producers appreciate Congressman Smith’s leadership in championing USMCA and reaffirming its importance to American agriculture,” said Seth Mitchell, Executive Director of Nebraska Pork Producers. “USMCA has delivered meaningful wins for our industry. Canada and Mexico remain two of the top five export markets for Nebraska pork, representing more than $100 million in value last year alone. Preserving the certainty and open market access provided under USMCA is essential for our producers, our rural communities, and the continued strength of North American trade.” “Nebraska, the fifth largest U.S. soybean producer, depends on export markets. The USMCA has benefited our industry, with Canada and Mexico being major buyers of Nebraska’s soybeans and soybean meal,” said Kent Grotelueschen, President of the Nebraska Soybean Association. “New crush capacity in the state is increasing soybean meal exports to these countries, adding value for producers. Maintaining a strong USMCA ensures ongoing market access. We thank Congressman Adrian Smith for his continued work on securing a strong agreement.” ""USMCA is a vital partnership that has significant benefits for Nebraska’s dairy industry. Mexico and Canada are the largest purchasers of U.S. dairy products so establishing fair trade deals is essential to the profitability of dairy producers across Nebraska,” said Doug Temme, Chairman of the Nebraska State Dairy Association. “USMCA remains essential to Nebraska’s biofuels industry and the farmers who supply it. Its certainty and market access strengthen rural jobs, support demand for Nebraska-grown corn, and keep our producers competitive. As the joint review moves forward, we ask the Administration to preserve the agreement’s core strengths and ensure its provisions to maintain strong North American trade relationships,"" said Dawn Caldwell, Executive Director, Renewable Fuels Nebraska. Additional signers of the letter include: Representatives Michael Simpson (R-ID), Ron Estes (R-KS), Josh Riley (D-NY), Mariannette J. Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Max L. Miller (R-OH), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Mike Carey (R-OH), David G. Valadao (R-CA), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Jodey C. Arrington (R-TX), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), André Carson (D-IN), Donald G. Davis (D-NC), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX), Brad Finstad (R-MN), John Garamendi (D-CA), Mike Bost (R-IL), Eric A. “Rick” Crawford (R-AR), Mark B. Messmer (R-IN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Gregory F. Murphy, M.D. (R-NC), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), John R. Moolenaar (R-MI), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Tracey Mann (R-KS), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Ben Cline (R-VA), James R. Baird (R-IN), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Steven Horsford (D-NV), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Frank J. Mrvan (D-IN), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (R-PA), Tony Wied (R-WI), W. Gregory Steube (R-FL), Jack Bergman (R-MI), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Suzan K. DelBene (D-WA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Blake D. Moore (R-UT), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Bradley Scott Schneider (D-IL), Mike Flood (R-NE), Tim Walberg (R-MI), Cliff Bentz (R-OR), Cleo Fields (D-LA), Dan Meuser (R-PA), Janelle S. Bynum (D-OR), Michael R. Turner (R-OH), Vince Fong (R-CA), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Trent Kelly (R-MS), John Rose (R-TN), Rudy Yakym III (R-IN), Austin Scott (R-GA), John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), Carol D. Miller (R-WV), Josh Harder (D-CA), French Hill (R-AR), Mark Alford (R-MO), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Angie Craig (D-MN), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Andy Harris, M.D. (R-MD), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Shontel M. Brown (D-OH), Kevin Hern (R-OK), Julia Letlow, Ph.D. (R-LA), Frank D. Lucas (R-OK), Michael A. Rulli (R-OH), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Robert E. Latta (R-OH), David Rouzer (R-NC), August Pfluger (R-TX), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA), Adam Gray (D-CA), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Ronny L. Jackson (R-TX), Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), David Kustoff (R-TN), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), Tom Cole (R-OK), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Brad Knott (R-NC), Ryan K. Zinke (R-MT), Sam Graves (R-MO), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), Sharice L. Davids (D-KS), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Ann Wagner (R-MO). Read the full letter text here or below. Dear Ambassador Greer: As Members of Congress representing a diverse range of communities reliant on the success of agriculture, we strongly support the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) due to its positive impact and benefit to U.S. agriculture. As the Administration develops its priorities for the six-year “joint review” of USMCA, we urge you to work closely with Congress and consider the significant positive impact North American agricultural trade has on our communities. Any changes to the agreement should be carefully examined to ensure U.S. agriculture is not negatively impacted. Further, as you consider updates to the agreement, we support efforts to fully enforce the existing terms and to address the few remaining barriers impacting U.S. agriculture, such as Canada’s barriers to U.S. dairy. This agreement provides vast benefits to our constituents, including farmers, ranchers, producers, growers, grain handlers, exporters, and the broader rural economy. The United States is the world’s largest agricultural exporter, with total agricultural exports valued at $176 billion in 2024. Over a third of these exports were destined for Mexico and Canada. Overall U.S. agricultural exports have significantly increased since implementation of USMCA, with exports to Mexico and Canada increasing by $10.7 billion and $7.6 billion respectively. For most individual U.S. agricultural products, Mexico and Canada are the largest and/or second largest export markets. The seamless integration provided under the agriculture provisions of USMCA facilitates the flow of goods by streamlining compliance measures and harmonizing regulations. Cost savings generated by the efficiencies in USMCA directly benefit American farmers, producers, and ranchers, which helps them make a living and support their local communities. The agriculture section of the USMCA provides much needed certainty within North America through its tough and effective rules on sanitary and phytosanitary measures, agricultural biotechnology, intellectual property, and technical barriers to trade. U.S. agricultural exporters depend on the binding nature of these provisions to access our closest markets and make sales, which has directly benefitted the farmers, ranchers, and producers that we represent. Further, these rules-based, science-driven commitments set a strong example for other trading partners hoping to achieve similar access to the U.S. market. USMCA was truly a landmark agreement for American agriculture when it entered into force, and its positive impact on U.S. agriculture has yet to reach its maximum benefit. At a time when economic challenges threaten the livelihood of family farms, producers need the certainty provided under USMCA more than ever. We appreciate your attention to the views of our constituents and look forward to working together as the 2026 Review process commences.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-tyson-foods-announcement,Smith Statement on Tyson Foods Announcement,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after Tyson Foods announced the impending closure of their Lexington, Nebraska, beef processing facility: “Today’s announcement by Tyson Foods is a disappointing loss for Lexington, Dawson County, the region, and the cattle industry as a whole. Nebraska’s hard-working cattle producers are innovative and highly efficient as they work to provide high quality beef for consumers. As the Lexington community and Nebraska agriculture respond to this announcement I welcome input from producers and stand ready to assist as we all move forward.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2821,"Bacon, Suozzi, Hurd, Gottheimer Introduce Bill to Avert Healthcare Affordability Crisis: The Bipartisan HOPE Act",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Today, Congressmen Don Bacon (R-NE), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jeff Hurd (R-CO) co-led the introduction of the Bipartisan Healthcare Optimization, Protection, and Extension (HOPE) Act. This bill would address the healthcare affordability crisis by extending the enhanced premium tax credits (PTCs) for two years and adding new income caps and guardrails against fraud in the process. “I’m glad we’re moving the debate forward on extending and reforming the Affordable Care Act subsidies. I’ve made clear to my colleagues on both sides that Congress needs a smart, bipartisan agreement that prevents our constituents’ health insurance premiums from skyrocketing. That’s why I worked with Reps. Tom Suozzi, Jeff Hurd, and Josh Gottheimer to introduce the HOPE Act, which would extend the enhanced premium tax credits for two years and apply new income caps and fraud protections. This may not be the final package Congress adopts, but it’s a responsible compromise that can help break the gridlock and protect families from higher costs,” said Congressman Bacon. “The number one issue in our country is affordability. The rising price of health care is a pressing concern for Americans who want both parties to work together to deliver relief,” said Congressman Suozzi. “Time is running out for people of good faith to broker a solution. This bill is a commonsense compromise that prevents devastating premium spikes, in some cases, thousands of dollars a month. The Bipartisan HOPE Act also strengthens the premium tax credit with added safeguards against fraud and abuse, reflecting priorities shared on both sides of the aisle. Thank you to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who were willing to sit down, negotiate in good faith, and work toward a real, practical solution for the American people.” Congressman Gottheimer said, “It’s time to come together, Democrats and Republicans, put aside the partisan BS, and deliver a real solution that will cut health insurance premiums. The Bipartisan HOPE Act will do just that — give hope to Jersey families struggling with the cost crisis on everything from health care to food to electric bills. Whether it’s this solution or another, failure is not an option.” “Families across Colorado are already stretched thin by high health-care costs, and without action from Congress, premiums are set to rise sharply at the end of this year. I joined this bipartisan effort because doing nothing would leave too many families in rural communities facing unaffordable increases that they cannot absorb. The HOPE Act provides a temporary, responsible extension of the current premium tax credits so families do not see sudden cost spikes through no fault of their own. This bill also includes the strongest guardrails ever applied to the ACA Exchanges. We crack down on fraudulent brokers and misleading marketing practices, require documented consumer consent for plan changes, expand audit requirements, and remove ‘ghost beneficiaries’ by directing regular checks against the federal Death Master File. These reforms protect taxpayers, strengthen program integrity, and prevent vulnerable consumers from being taken advantage of. The HOPE Act is a practical, bipartisan solution that maintains affordability, enhances transparency, and improves accountability while Congress works toward long-term reforms that will make our health-care system more stable and more affordable. I will continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pursue responsible, commonsense solutions that put families first,” said Congressman Hurd. The bill would extend the enhanced PTCs for enrollees earning less than $200,000 per year for a family of four. The bill would phase out the enhanced PTCs for enrollees earning between $200,000 and $300,000 for a family of four. Moreover, the bill would create new guardrails to prevent “ghost beneficiaries,” crack down on fraud, and enhance delivery clarity. The bill cracks down on broker fraud by implementing several measures, including those presented in the Insurance Fraud Accountability Act, to codify CMS’s authority to remove bad actors from ACA marketplaces, penalize bad actors, implement new consumer protections, and more. It also directs ACA marketplaces to regularly confirm enrollee eligibility with the Death Master File and requires marketplaces to better notify recipients the value of PTCs they are receiving from the federal government. Finally, recognizing that many would-be recipients may have been discouraged from purchasing health insurance by previously high premiums, the bill would extend open enrollment to May 15. Rep. Bacon and his colleague spoke to reporters today on the HOPE Act. His remarks can be heard here. You can find a one-pager on the Bipartisan HOPE Act here. The bill text is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2822,"Bacon, Beyer Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Fix Broken House Disciplinary Process",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE) and Don Beyer (D-VA) today introduced a bipartisan resolution that would raise the required vote threshold to punish Members of the House with censure, disapproval, or removal of committee assignments from a simple majority to 60 percent. This measure would reform the process by which the House disciplines its Members, in response to the sharp increase in introductions of punitive resolutions in the House. “A U.S. House ruled by mob mentality cannot function. The institution and American people deserve better than what we’ve seen this week. The vast middle must stand up to the extremes and put commonsense safeguards in place,” said Rep. Bacon. “This resolution with Rep. Beyer, which requires a 60 percent threshold before the House can censure or penalize a Member, will force future censures to have bipartisan support, restore stability, protect the institution, and get the House back to working for the American people.” “The process of censures and disciplinary measures in the House is broken, and all of us know it. These measures were historically reserved for rare and exceptional cases after a lengthy process that allowed time for investigations and due process, but that precedent has deteriorated. Our resolution would break the cycle of censures to help return focus in the House to solving problems for the American people,” said Rep. Beyer. “The proliferation of resolutions to punish our fellow Members with censure, disapproval, or the revocation of committee assignments has become unsustainable, to the point that they now impair our ability to work together to address serious issues. I fear this is inflicting lasting damage on this institution. Our legislation would implement desperately needed reform by creating a threshold high enough to require significant consensus between the parties that the process has been fair and that any wrongdoing rises to the level of the punishment. I thank my colleague, Congressman Bacon, for working with me on this solution and urge my colleagues to support this measure and raise the level of sanity in the People’s House.” Article I of the Constitution establishes that “Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings, punish its Members for disorderly Behaviour.” Historically measures punishing Members of the House were reserved for rare, unique cases following investigations; during the 20th Century the House voted to censure its members just six times, most after lengthy ethics investigations that established criminal activity or serious misconduct. At least five resolutions to punish Members of the House have been brought forward just this week, and dozens of Members have been targeted with such measures this year. Full text of the resolution is available here. In addition to Congressmen Bacon and Beyer, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Angie Craig (D-MN), Kevin Kiley (R-CA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Michael Turner (R-OH), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Tom McClintock (R-CA), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Sarah McBride (D-DE), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Nikema Williams (D-GA), James Walkinshaw (D-VA), Kelly Morrison (D-MN), Ami Bera (D-CA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jared Huffman (D-CA). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2820,KETV's Rob McCartney honored at Congress by Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,KETV's Rob McCartney was honored on the House floor on Wednesday morning.,1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-housing-insurance-subcommittee-leaders-highlight-proposed-major,Bipartisan Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Leaders Highlight Proposed Major Reforms to Top Federal Housing Program,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Chair Mike Flood (NE-01) and Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) held a press conference to highlight historic reforms they introduced in the HOME Reform Act of 2025. “America is in the midst of a housing shortage as families struggle to live the American dream due to the lack of millions of homes,” said Chairman Flood (R-NE). “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. The HOME Reform Act of 2025 will cut the red tape that has been holding this program back. Dozens of stakeholders are throwing their support behind these reforms, building momentum to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, the HOME Reform Act of 2025 gives local communities an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation. Thanks to my colleague Rep. Cleaver, and I look forward to working to pass this legislation with broad bipartisan support."" “From the heartland to the coasts, hardworking families continue to struggle with the high cost of housing—and it is imperative that Congress take strong, comprehensive, and bipartisan action to boost the construction of affordable housing across the country,” said Ranking Member Cleaver (D-MO). “With overwhelming support from housing stakeholders, our HOME Reform Act takes major steps toward cutting the unnecessary red tape and strengthening public-private partnerships that will incentivize the development of affordable housing in communities nationwide. I’m proud to stand with Chairman Flood as we fight to lower housing costs, and I hope that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers of Congress will join us in this important effort.” What Stakeholders Are Saying: “The HOME Investment Partnerships Program is an important source of financing for affordable housing, often used in conjunction with the recently expanded Low-Income Housing Tax Credit,” said Emily Cadik, Chief Executive Officer of the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition. “We applaud Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for working together on these commonsense, bipartisan proposals to make the HOME program more efficient and effective, at a time when there is such an urgent need to increase affordable housing supply.” “The HOME Reform Act of 2025 strengthens a vital federal program that communities use to develop and preserve supportive housing. These improvements to the HOME Investment Partnerships Program will help ensure that people with disabilities and complex health needs have access to stable, affordable homes paired with the services that support housing success. We commend Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their bipartisan leadership in advancing practical reforms that reduce development barriers, improve infrastructure, and expand housing options in communities across the country. CSH is proud to support this legislation and its commitment to building stronger housing systems,” said Deb De Santis, President and CEO, Corporation for Supportive Housing. “COSCDA applauds Congressman Flood and Congressman Cleaver for the introduction of the HOME Reform Act of 2025, a bill that would modernize the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and spur the development of affordable housing supply. This bipartisan bill addresses many of the barriers identified by HOME stakeholders by streamlining over-burdensome requirements and making common-sense improvements. COSCDA’s state HOME grantees urge Congress to pass this bill, marking the HOME program’s first modernization since its passage in the 1990s,” said Tess Hembree, Executive Director, Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA). “HUD’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program is the largest federal housing block grant. It’s time for Congress to modernize and streamline the program as our nation is facing a record shortage of starter homes pushing homeownership out of reach for millions of families and essential workers nationwide,” said Chris Vincent, Vice President of Government Relations and Advocacy at Habitat for Humanity International. “We applaud Representatives Mike Flood and Emanuel Cleaver for leading this bipartisan effort to ease regulatory burdens and strengthen the programs use and effectiveness in building more affordable homes, especially for homeownership.” “As a Network of mission-driven housing developers and lenders that use the HOME program to reduce housing costs for households all across the country, HPN applauds and supports the introduction of the bipartisan HOME Reform Act. This is common sense legislation that reduces red tape, makes the HOME program easier to use and maintains a strong focus on people in need,” said Robin Hughes, CEO, Housing Partnership Network. ""Lincoln Avenue Communities is pleased to support the HOME Reform Act of 2025. As the nation faces an unprecedented affordable housing crisis, this legislation proposes crucial changes to modernize the HOME Program and expand its impact. It creates new programmatic efficiencies that will empower local communities to help finance affordable housing where it is needed most. We urge Congress to enact this critical legislation as soon as possible,” said Thom Amdur, Senior Vice President for Policy & Impact, Lincoln Avenue Communities. “The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) applauds Representatives Cleaver and Flood for their leadership in introducing the HOME Reform Act of 2025. The HOME Program is our nation’s only federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create and preserve affordable housing for low-income households. It’s often utilized as critical gap financing for Low-Income Housing Tax Credit developments” said Matt Josephs, Senior Vice President of Policy, LISC. “The HOME Reform Act will modernize the program, making it easier to utilize, which will ultimately decrease projects costs and increase affordable housing opportunities for families.” “The Mortgage Bankers Association commends Congressmen Mike Flood (R-NE) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) for proposing important reforms to the HOME Act that will bring more affordable housing supply to market,” said Bill Killmer, senior vice president of legislative and political affairs at Mortgage Bankers Association. “MBA supports policies that streamline development, reduce regulatory burdens, and expand access to sustainable housing options for consumers.” “The housing undersupply crisis impacts nearly every community across our country, and there’s never been a more pressing need for decisive and bipartisan action from Congress,” said National Apartment Association (NAA) President & CEO Bob Pinnegar. “NAA applauds Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.-1) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.-5) for their steadfast leadership in introducing the HOME Reform Act. This legislation rightly places an important emphasis on reducing regulatory burdens and would ultimately help increase critically needed housing supply and ease longstanding affordability challenges for Americans nationwide.” “NAHB applauds Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.) and Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.) for introducing bipartisan legislation that makes much needed reforms to the HOME program. The HOME Reform Act of 2025 will improve this critical block grant program designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. The legislation increases opportunities for homeownership by expanding HOME to include workforce housing and relieves regulatory burdens on home builders and housing providers to enable them to construct more attainable, affordable housing,” said Buddy Hughes, Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders. ""NAR strongly supports the HOME Reform Act and thanks Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their bipartisan leadership in modernizing a program that hasn't been updated in decades,"" said National Association of Realtors Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer Shannon McGahn. ""By cutting red tape and giving communities more flexibility, these reforms will unlock housing production and open doors to homeownership for more first-time buyers."" ""America’s affordable housing crisis is made worse by federal rules that slow down construction and increase costs. The National Community Development Association supports the HOME Reform Act of 2025, which simplifies regulations and gives administrators more flexibility to deliver affordable housing faster,” said Vicki Watson, Executive Director, National Community Development Association (NCDA). “The HOME program is critical to the production and preservation of affordable rental and homeownership opportunities in rural, urban, and suburban communities. It also provides states and local participating jurisdictions with much-needed flexibility to meet their unique housing needs. Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver’s HOME Reform Act makes meaningful reforms to the program that promote flexibility, streamline program requirements and regulations, and reduce barriers to entry. This proposal will reduce costs, promote affordable housing development and preservation, and support more homebuyers and renters. NHC looks forward to working with Congress to advance this legislation,” said David M. Dworkin, President and CEO of the National Housing Conference. “NMHC applauds the tremendous work that Chaiman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver have undertaken to streamline and strengthen the HOME program. Today’s legislation will make this critical program more effective and efficient in addressing our nation's housing supply shortage and reducing the cost of housing. We look forward to working with Congress on enacting this and other legislation that will help realize our goal of ensuring that all Americans have a safe and decent place to call home at a price they can afford,” said Sharon Wilson Géno, National Multifamily Housing Council President. “The National NeighborWorks Association applauds Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their thoughtful, bipartisan leadership on the HOME Reform Act of 2025,” said Lou Tisler, Executive Director of National NeighborWorks Association. “This legislation will help unlock the full potential of the HOME program through much-needed streamlining and common-sense reforms. The 250 NeighborWorks-chartered organizations across the country are on the front lines of America’s housing crisis, and these reforms will enable them to use HOME resources more effectively— building more affordable supply and helping more families achieve the dream of homeownership.” “America’s housing affordability crisis has reached a breaking point, and the HOME Reform Act of 2025 rises to meet it,” said Mike Kingsella, CEO of Up for Growth. “This bill will make it easier for public and private partners to work together to build more affordable homes and ensures program funds support the infrastructure that communities, especially those long overlooked, need to meet their housing needs. With the bipartisan leadership of Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver, Congress has a clear opportunity to help communities across the country deliver affordable homes, expand pathways to ownership, and open doors of opportunity for individuals and families nationwide.” The HOME Reform Act is endorsed by Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, American Planning Association (APA), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH), Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH), Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA), Community Opportunity Alliance, Enterprise Community Partners, Fahe, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Partnership Network (HPN), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Lincoln Avenue Communities, Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), National Apartment Association (NAA), National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders (NAAHL), National Association of County Community and Economic Development (NACCED), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), National Association of Realtors (NAR), National Community Development Association (NCDA), National Community Stabilization Trust (NCST), National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), National Housing Conference (NHC), National Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NH&RA), National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), National NeighborWorks Association (NNA), Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF), Up for Growth and the US Conference of Mayors. Congressman Flood serves as the Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee, Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus, and is a member of the House Financial Services Committee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-releases-statement-after-voting-release-epstein-files,Smith Releases Statement After Voting to Release the Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adrian Smith released the following statement after voting for H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act: “The crimes of Jeffrey Epstein are appalling. The American people deserve transparency into who else participated, who else knew, and why Epstein received the treatment he did from prosecutors. “Today’s vote is another small step towards accountability and justice for the survivors of these heinous crimes. I appreciate the work which the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee has already done to release more than 65,000 pages of documents relating to Epstein, and I hope further accountability will be the result as additional files are reviewed and released.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2814,"Bacon, Khanna Applaud Administration Decision to Exempt Coffee from Costly Reciprocal Tariffs",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Reversal Follows Bacon & Khanna’s Bipartisan No Coffee Tax Act to Repeal Coffee Tariffs Washington – Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Ro Khanna (CA-17) today applauded the Trump administration’s decision to exempt coffee from the costly reciprocal tariffs driving up prices across the United States. Last week, President Trump signed an Executive Order modifying the scope of the reciprocal tariffs first announced on April 2, 2025. Under the updated order, certain qualifying agricultural products, including coffee, will no longer be subject to those tariffs. The decision follows Rep. Bacon’s bipartisan No Coffee Tax Act, introduced with Reps. Ro Khanna (CA-17), Don Beyer (VA-08), and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), which would have repealed the tariffs on coffee. “Families across America are feeling the cost of higher coffee prices, which are already up 21 percent due to the reciprocal tariffs. The U.S. is the largest importer of coffee in the world and relies almost entirely on imports for coffee,” said Rep. Bacon. “Tariffing a product we can't grow at a large, commercial scale doesn't make sense and only drives prices higher for consumers. I applaud President Trump and his administration for listening to our concerns and recognizing the harm these tariffs were causing. I hope this marks the beginning of the administration reversing course on these harmful tariffs.” “Representative Don Bacon and my efforts are working. We have been calling for coffee tariffs to be repealed and introduced our bipartisan bill. Increasing prices for small businesses and coffee drinkers makes no economic sense,” said Rep. Khanna ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-applauds-commonsense-wotus-proposal,Congressman Flood Applauds Commonsense WOTUS Proposal,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on the proposed rule announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to revise the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule and provide greater certainty for farmers. “For years, the Biden administration refused to listen to ag producers and the states that have given ongoing feedback about changes to the WOTUS rule. The Trump administration’s proposed rule reflects significant stakeholder input and is a big win for our farmers and ranchers. The new rule rolls back red tape, gives clarity to our ag producers, and protects Americans from the overreach they endured during the last administration.“",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-votes-epstein-files-transparency-act,Congressman Flood Votes for the Epstein Files Transparency Act,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following his vote for H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act. ""I support releasing the Epstein files and voted to do so today. Epstein’s victims deserve justice. This is yet another step towards ensuring that our country exposes corruption and sends a message that America will never tolerate the horrific crimes that came with the evil trafficking operation Epstein ran.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-wotus,Smith Statement on WOTUS,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Vice Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced their proposed rule to define waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The proposed rule will provide needed clarity and reduce permitting barriers while ensuring EPA fulfills its mandate to protect navigable American waters. ""Today’s announcement is a win for farmers, ranchers, and landowners across the United States. For years, overreaching and inconsistent WOTUS definitions have created burdensome red tape and threatened property rights in rural America. I applaud Administrator Zeldin for taking the necessary action to restore certainty and common sense.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2819,"Bacon, Lee, Panetta Lead Bipartisan Push Urging Permanent Retainment of Dept. of Ed Staff Serving Students Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Care",2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Text of Letter (PDF) Washington – Today, Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) led a bipartisan letter with Reps. Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) to the Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Department of Education urging the permanent retainment of staff in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) who administer programs serving students experiencing homelessness and students in foster care. The letter follows widespread reduction-in-force (RIF) notices issued during the government shutdown that reportedly fired almost all OESE workers, including the staff who administer the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program. Although the shutdown RIF has since been reversed, the lawmakers are concerned that the Department is working to gut the EHCY program and stressed that reinstating workers temporarily is not sufficient. The Department, the lawmakers emphasize, must restore—and retain—the specialized personnel who ensure states and districts can meet their legal obligations to students. “About 1.4 million students in the U.S. experience homelessness each school year and about 270,000 school-aged children and youth are in foster care. Beyond the challenges of meeting their basic needs, these students face unique barriers to education including difficulty enrolling in school without a fixed address or necessary documentation, lack of transportation, frequently changing schools, and chronic absenteeism,” the lawmakers wrote. “Federal programs administered by the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, like the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program, are one of few lifelines for children experiencing homelessness.” The letter notes that without OESE’s specialized staff—including those supporting the EHCY program—states and districts cannot fully implement federal protections (McKinney-Vento) or effectively utilize Title I, Part A set-asides for students experiencing homelessness. The members underscore Congress’s bipartisan support for EHCY, with both chambers proposing $129 million for FY 2026, and argue that permanent staffing is essential to deliver on that commitment. “Without these workers, the Department of Education will be unable to fulfill its legal responsibilities under Section 724 of the McKinney-Vento Act, which protects access to education for students experiencing homelessness. Without these workers, states and districts will be unequipped to implement EHCY funding and other critical support that students are entitled to,” the lawmakers continued. “As a result, over one million children and youth may lose access to the educational services they rely on as an essential source of stability.” The letter is signed by Representatives Nanette Barragán, Salud Carbajal, André Carson, Greg Casar, Judy Chu, Emanuel Cleaver, Danny Davis, Madeleine Dean, Dwight Evans, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chrissy Houlahan, Glenn Ivey, Jonathan Jackson, Hank Johnson, Seth Magaziner, Gwen Moore, Kevin Mullin, Jerrold Nadler, Brittany Pettersen, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Darren Soto, Marilyn Strickland, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, and Gabe Vasquez. The letter is endorsed by SchoolHouse Connection and the Homeless Children’s Education Fund. “Ensuring that children who are homeless or who enter foster care can stay in school is not a partisan issue. Restoring the small, specialized team at the U.S. Department of Education that helps states and school districts carry out these protections is a practical, bipartisan step that honors the law Congress passed. We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Lee, Panetta, and Bacon in calling for the permanent reinstatement of these positions and stand ready to work with the Administration and leaders in both parties to make sure these students are not left behind,” said Barbara Duffield, Executive Director of SchoolHouse Connection. ""Students experiencing homelessness and foster care face unique challenges every day and the dedicated federal workers supporting them are critical to ensuring these children have access to stable, equitable education. We urge the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Education to permanently reinstate these essential positions. These students cannot afford to lose the advocates who fight for their success,"" said AJ Jefferson, president and CEO of Homeless Children's Education Fund, expressing her concern. Full letter text is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-announces-upcoming-staff-outreach-events-21,Smith Announces Upcoming Staff Outreach Events,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a member of his staff during these outreach events in Hastings, Ravenna, Central City, York, Geneva, Wilber, Auburn, Falls City, Pawnee City, Red Cloud, Aurora, Tecumseh, Imperial, Grant, Blair, Bartlett, Tryon, Stapleton, and Brewster. A staff outreach event is an opportunity for constituents to meet directly with a member of Smith's staff about federal issues, receive assistance with a federal agency, or take advantage of the services available through his office. Smith, who has offices in Grand Island, Scottsbluff, and Nebraska City, will provide a staff member at the following times and locations: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Hastings Public Library 314 N. Denver Avenue, Hastings 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. CT Ravenna Public Library 324 Milan Avenue, Ravenna 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. CT Central City Library 1604 15th Avenue, Central City 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. CT Wednesday, November 19, 2025 York Area Chamber of Commerce 603 N. Lincoln Avenue, York 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. CT Geneva Public Library 1043 G Street, Geneva 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. CT Wilber Public Library 419 W. 3rd Street, Wilber 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. CT Thursday, November 20, 2025 Auburn Public Library 1810 Courthouse Avenue, Auburn 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. CT Falls City Library 1400 Stone Street, Falls City 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. CT Pawnee City Library 735 8th Street, Pawnee City 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT Friday, November 21, 2025 Red Cloud Library 537 N. Webster, Red Cloud 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. CT Monday, November 24, 2025 Aurora Public Library 1603 L Street, Aurora 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. CT Tecumseh Public Library 170 Branch Street, Tecumseh 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Chase County Courthouse 921 Broadway, Imperial 8:15 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. MT Perkins County Courthouse 200 Lincoln Avenue, Grant 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. MT Washington County Courthouse 1555 Colfax Street, Blair 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. CT Wednesday, November 26, 2025 Wheeler County Courthouse 301 Third Street, Bartlett 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. CT Thursday, December 4, 2025 McPherson County Courthouse 500 Anderson, Tryon 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. CT Tuesday, December 16, 2025 Logan County Courthouse 317 Main Street, Stapleton 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CT Blaine County Courthouse 145 Lincoln Avenue, Brewster 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. CT For additional information, please contact Smith’s Grand Island office at (308) 384-3900, his Scottsbluff office at (308) 633-6333, or his Nebraska City office at (402) 874-6050.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2810,Bacon Votes to Reopen the Government and End the Democrat Leadership Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after voting to reopen the government and end the Democrat leadership shutdown: ""I voted yes to open the government back up after this unnecessary and damaging shutdown perpetrated by Congressional Democrat leaders that achieved nothing. Today’s vote funds three of twelve appropriations bills through September 30th next year and funds the rest of government through January 31st. It brings back the 1.4 million federal workers, restores their paychecks, and gets SNAP benefits going again for the 42 million Americans who rely on them. House Democrats who voted against this are opposing the unions representing federal employees and air traffic controllers, and millions of Americans who simply want their government open. I’m grateful to the eight Senate Democrats who stood up to their leadership and voted to end this harmful shutdown. Most in the GOP are ready to negotiate and find a bipartisan, reasonable consensus on the ACA tax credits."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-government-reopening-budget-deal-delivers-nebraska,Congressman Flood: Government Reopening Budget Deal Delivers for Nebraska,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following House passage of Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, the ""Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act.” The legislation provides full-year funding for Agriculture, Military Construction/Veterans Affairs, and Legislative Branch appropriations bills. Other federal government funding is extended until January 30th by the package. ""After more than 40 days, the Democrat shutdown is finally over. Over the last several weeks, families have waited for food assistance, homebuyers couldn’t purchase flood insurance, and over a million federal employees went without pay. This bipartisan agreement to reopen the government delivers three of the twelve annual appropriations bills while giving Congress until January 30th to complete the rest. Importantly, the package extends SNAP, WIC, and other critical programs through the end of the fiscal year, so that working families have certainty. Additionally, it includes $16 million to further support the construction of the National Center for Resilient and Regenerative Precision Agriculture located at Innovation Campus in Lincoln and over $42 million in funding for Offutt Air Force Base's Survivable Airborne Operations Center program.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-issues-statement-ahead-veterans-day,Congressman Flood Issues Statement Ahead of Veterans Day,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement ahead of Veterans Day, which will be observed on November 11, 2025. ""From the shores of Omaha Beach to the jungles of Vietnam, Nebraskans have served to protect and defend our country and the cause of liberty around the world for generations. As we honor the heroes who have worn our nation’s uniform, Veterans Day is an opportunity to express our personal appreciation for everyone who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This year as we approach this day, I introduced a series of bills to support our veterans and honor unsung military heroes. Even small steps help to build a brighter future for our veterans as they live out the American Dream after their time in active duty. Thank you to everyone across Nebraska who works to support our veterans. Together, we’ll keep making the Good Life an even better place for our service members to live, work, and raise their families.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-package-bills-supporting-our-nations-veterans,Congressman Flood Announces Package of Bills Supporting Our Nation’s Veterans,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced the introduction of three bills ahead of this year’s Veterans Day, observed on November 11, 2025. The legislation in the package includes a focus on providing relief to veterans facing crushing medical debt as well as efforts that honor the service and sacrifice of America’s service members during times of conflict. “Our nation’s veterans are too often left behind after their service,” said Congressman Flood. “Through the years, I’ve heard directly from veterans’ communities across Nebraska’s First District. It’s so important that we deliver practical solutions to better support and honor those who served our country. I’m grateful to my colleagues for joining me in introducing these bills as we approach Veterans Day, which is an opportunity for our country to reaffirm its commitment to those who’ve worn the uniform.” The bills that Congressman Flood and his colleagues introduced are provided below: Lincoln Post Office Renaming to Honor Commodore Dixie Kiefer (Photo credit: Naval History and Heritage Command) “As a hero of Nebraska, and America, Commodore Dixie Kiefer served with distinction through both World Wars,” said Congressman Flood. “His courage and leadership were exemplified in the Second World War, where he earned two Purple Hearts, the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, and other honors for his actions during the Battles of Midway, the Coral Sea, and throughout the Pacific Theater. I am honored to introduce this measure to name the Calvert Street Post Office in honor of Commodore Dixie Kiefer, who was a graduate of Lincoln High School, as a long overdue recognition of his extraordinary service and sacrifice.” If enacted, this legislation will designate the post office located at 1201 Calvert Street in Lincoln, Nebraska, as the “Commodore Dixie Kiefer Memorial Post Office Building.” Commodore Kiefer served in the United States Navy from 1918 until his passing in a Navy transport plane accident in 1945. Full text of the bill can be found here. Stamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act “VA medical debt is a concern that remains top of mind for far too many of our nations veterans,” said Congressman Flood. “Those who have served and sacrificed to protect our nation should not face the burden of overwhelming medical debt for care received at a VA facility or through a VA Community Care Program partner. I look forward to seeing this bill advance through Congress and launching a new stamp campaign so the American people can once again demonstrate our shared commitment in supporting our nation’s veterans."" ""Congressman Flood’s legislation provides a meaningful, bipartisan solution to alleviate the crushing weight of medical debt, enabling veterans to focus on recovery, reintegration, and financial stability. By addressing this issue head-on, the “Stamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act” reinforces the nation’s sacred promise to care for those who have borne the battle."" – James McCormick, Executive Director of Government Affairs at Vietnam Veterans of America The ""Stamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act"" seeks to help relieve approximately $280 million in unpaid fees and co-pays accrued by veterans in relation to their care via the VA, including VA approved Community Care. The legislation directs the U.S. Postal Service to issue and sell a Veterans Medical Debt Relief Stamp, with proceeds going directly to the Department of Veterans Affairs to help pay down veterans’ medical debt. As a result of this bill, the VA would pay down debt related to unpaid copayment or coinsurance billings as a result of hospital care, medical services, and extended care provided by the VA or through approved medical care administered via the Community Care Program. The Stamp Out Veterans Medical Debt Act is proudly supported by Vietnam Veterans of America and The American Legion. Full text of the bill can be found here. USS Frank E. Evans Act (Garry Hodgson of Omaha. Photo credit: Nebraska Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation) (Sage brothers of Niobrara. Photo credit: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund) “The tragedy of the USS Frank E. Evans’ sinking in 1969, closely following missions in the Vietnam combat zone, should never be forgotten,” said Congressman Flood. “For decades, the names of the 74 crew members lost in the accident, which includes four sons of Nebraska, have remained absent from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. I want to thank Congresswoman Judy Chu of California for joining me in ensuring that these brave sailors receive the recognition they have long deserved for their sacrifice in service to our country, and so many of their families have fought for.” ""I am proud to join Rep. Flood in introducing the bipartisan USS Frank E. Evans Act to honor the 74 sailors, including 22 Californians, whose ultimate sacrifice must not be forgotten,” said Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28). “I have heard from the families and survivors who have long sought this recognition for their loved ones and am committed to supporting these efforts. These brave Americans deserve to be honored alongside their fellow service members at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.” ""Vietnam Veterans of America supports the USS Frank E. Evans Act, which would authorize the inclusion of the 74 brave sailors lost on June 3, 1969, aboard the USS Frank E. Evans on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. These sailors served with honor during the Vietnam War and made the ultimate sacrifice while participating in operations connected to that conflict. Their names deserve a permanent place beside their brothers and sisters who gave their lives in the same war. This legislation is an act of long-overdue recognition and respect. It honors the service, sacrifice, and shared legacy of all who served during the Vietnam era.” – Tom Burke, Vietnam Veterans of America President ""The American Legion is proud to endorse the USS Frank E. Evans Act, which would add the names of the 74 sailors who lost their lives in a collision at sea on June 3, 1969, to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Although these sailors had recently completed combat operations within the designated Vietnam combat zone, their sacrifice remains unrecognized because the collision occurred just outside the official boundary. The American Legion remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring and commemorating all servicemembers who make the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.”– Julia Mathis, National Legislative Director at The American Legion The ""USS Frank E. Evans Act"" seeks to honor the sailors’ ultimate sacrifice aboard the USS Frank E. Evans by directing the Department of War to add the names of the 74 fallen crew members to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. To date, more than 380 names have been added to the Memorial through changes in criteria and special exceptions for those whose service and sacrifice were connected to the conflict in Vietnam. The USS Frank E. Evans had recently completed a combat mission in the Vietnam combat zone before it sank in a tragic naval accident on June 3, 1969. The destroyer collided with an Australian aircraft carrier in the South China Sea, claiming the lives of 74 sailors– including four Nebraskans: Gary Sage, Greg Sage, Kelly Jo Sage, and Garry Hodgson. The USS Frank E. Evans Act is proudly supported by Vietnam Veterans of America and The American Legion. Original cosponsors for this bill include: Reps. Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Mike Levin(CA-49), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Mike Thompson (CA-04), and Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02). Full text of the bill can be found here. Congressman Flood is the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus and has made veterans’ issues a priority as he represents the First Congressional District, which includes Offutt Air Force Base, two State Veterans Homes, and multiple VA health care facilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2809,"Bacon Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter Urging Armed Services Conferees to Include Provisions to Support Baltic Allies in Final NDAA",2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and Co-Chair of the Senate Baltic Freedom Caucus, led 28 members of Congress in sending a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the four Senate and House leaders of the Armed Services Committees urging them to preserve provisions that support Baltic allies in the final Fiscal Year (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The four leaders of the Armed Services Committees are currently engaged in conference negotiations to finalize the text of legislation. “As you continue conference negotiations for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, we strongly urge you to retain provisions in the final text that are critical to maintaining the security, cooperation, and deterrence capabilities of our Baltic allies,” the lawmakers wrote. “In recent years, Congress has reaffirmed through the annual National Defense Authorization Act and Defense Appropriations Act that the United States should strengthen security cooperation with interoperability among Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The Baltic states are among America’s most capable allies, firmly committed to investing in their own defense and meeting NATO spending commitments. U.S. security assistance to the Baltics bolsters regional and European stability while protecting U.S. and allied security interests. Any proposed cuts to U.S. security assistance will undermine deterrence efforts and embolden adversaries,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers continued their letter, advocating for the inclusion of robust funding for BSI. “The initiative provides targeted security assistance to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three vital NATO allies facing direct Russian aggression. This funding has helped enhance key defense capabilities in the Baltics, including long-range precision fire systems, integrated air and missile defense, maritime awareness, and improved cyber defenses and resilience to hybrid threats. Authorizing this program—without creating any new authorities or bureaucracies—is critical to ensuring its continuation amid concerns that the Pentagon may terminate certain security assistance programs, including for the Baltics,” the lawmakers wrote. The members also called for the inclusion of a provision that would streamline defense cooperation between the U.S. and the Baltics as Russia has continued to enter Baltic airspace. “Russia continues to test NATO through provocative incursions into Baltic airspace and views the region as a single operational area, as reflected in NATO’s regional defense plans. Improving the effectiveness of HIMARS [High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems] deployments and enhancing collective defense capabilities will further strengthen deterrence and complicate Russia’s strategic planning,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers concluded their letter by underscoring the history of Congress’ bipartisan support for the Baltic region, which is even more critical amid Russia’s war on Ukraine. “These provisions reflect Congress’ bipartisan commitment to regional stability and the collective defense of NATO in the face of escalating Russian aggression,” the lawmakers concluded their letter. Receiving a copy of today’s letter were U.S. Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL-03), Chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services; and U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-WA-09), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Armed Services. U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Services; U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services. Joining Bacon in sending today’s letter were U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Angus King (I-ME), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Peter Welch (D-VT), as well as U.S. Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI-03), Bill Keating (D-MA-09), Michael Turner (R-OH-10), Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), Dina Titus (D-NV-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY-26), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Brendan Boyle (D-PA-02), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Ted Lieu (D-CA-33), Gil Cisneros (D-CA-36), Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14), and James Walkinshaw (D-VA-11). A copy of the letter is available below: November 6, 2025 Dear Chairman Wicker, Ranking Member Reed, Chairman Rogers, and Ranking Member Smith, As you continue conference negotiations for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, we strongly urge you to retain provisions in the final text that are critical to maintaining the security, cooperation, and deterrence capabilities of our Baltic allies. In recent years, Congress has reaffirmed through the annual National Defense Authorization Act and Defense Appropriations Act that the United States should strengthen security cooperation with interoperability among Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The Baltic states are among America’s most capable allies, firmly committed to investing in their own defense and meeting NATO spending commitments. U.S. security assistance to the Baltics bolsters regional and European stability while protecting U.S. and allied security interests. Any proposed cuts to U.S. security assistance will undermine deterrence efforts and embolden adversaries. Baltic Security Initiative. Section 1230C of S. 2296 and Section 1306 of H.R. 3838 would authorize the Baltic Security Initiative, an effort created by Congress in 2021 with bipartisan support. The initiative provides targeted security assistance to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three vital NATO allies facing direct Russian aggression. This funding has helped enhance key defense capabilities in the Baltics, including long-range precision fire systems, integrated air and missile defense, maritime awareness, and improved cyber defenses and resilience to hybrid threats. Authorizing this program—without creating any new authorities or bureaucracies—is critical to ensuring its continuation amid concerns that the Pentagon may terminate certain security assistance programs, including for the Baltics. Transfers of HIMARS between Baltic states. Section 1230B of S. 2296 allows the Baltic states to share High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and related ammunition for training and operational needs without requiring additional U.S. approval, streamlining defense cooperation and enhancing the collective defense capabilities in the region. All three Baltic states are procuring HIMARS, and consistent with U.S. recommendations, pursuing joint maintenance of their systems to allow the fleet to operate freely within the Baltics. Russia continues to test NATO through provocative incursions into Baltic airspace and views the region as a single operational area, as reflected in NATO’s regional defense plans. Improving the effectiveness of HIMARS deployments and enhancing collective defense capabilities will further strengthen deterrence and complicate Russia’s strategic planning. These provisions reflect Congress’ bipartisan commitment to regional stability and the collective defense of NATO in the face of escalating Russian aggression. Thank you for your attention to our request.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-suspension-and-replacement-irs-direct-file,Smith Statement on Suspension and Replacement of IRS Direct File,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement upon publication of a Department of the Treasury report on suspending and replacing the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Direct File tax filing program. “IRS Direct File was an expensive, duplicative program which was never authorized or funded by Congress, and I want to express my appreciation to President Trump, Secretary Bessent, and CEO Bisignano for bringing this chapter to a close. “American families and family businesses by-and-large pay their taxes accurately and on time. The Biden administration and congressional Democrats’ vision of a supercharged IRS monitoring Americans’ bank accounts, assessing tax, and targeting anyone who disagrees, especially farmers, ranchers, and small businesses, for audits, is inconsistent with our longstanding voluntary compliance system and with basic standards of fairness. “As part of today’s report, the Department of Treasury has correctly identified the need to improve access to new and existing free file options for basic family tax returns, and I look forward to working with the Trump administration and my congressional colleagues to ensure it happens.” BACKGROUND: In January 2023, Reps. Adrian Smith and Michelle Steel's (R-CA) bill to repeal the Biden Administration’s $80 billion IRS expansion, the Family and Small Business Taxpayer Protection Act, became the first bill passed by the House in the 118th Congress. This bill would have also repealed the IRS’s controversial initial study of providing direct file services. In 2024 and 2025, Smith led his Ways and Means Committee colleagues in writing to the House Appropriations Committee asking them to defund the Direct File program. In June 2024, Smith led Ways and Means colleagues in sending a letter to Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service Daniel Werfel raising concerns about IRS’ announced expansion of the Direct File program and asking Commissioner Werfel to respond to questions regarding statutory authority and the origin of funds allocated for development and advertisement of the program. Smith, along with Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC), introduced legislation in July 2024 to terminate the IRS’s unauthorized Direct File program. In December, Smith and Edwards led a letter asking President Trump to end the Direct File pilot program upon taking office in January. In January 2025, Smith, Edwards, and Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced updated legislation, which became the basis for language requiring the discontinuation of Direct File which was enacted as part of July’s Working Family Tax Cuts package.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2806,"Bacon Hosts Tele-Townhall on November 4, 2025",2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) hosted a tele-townhall on November 5, 2025, for the people of Nebraska’s Second Congressional District to discuss the latest issues in Congress and around the world. During the tele-townhall, Rep. Bacon addressed several topics including the government shutdown, his bipartisan framework to temporarily extend and reform the ACA tax credits, the Administration’s strikes against drug cartels, updates on the Ukraine war, his priorities for the remainder of his term, and much more. The tele-townhall had around 7,300 participants. You can listen to the entire tele-townhall here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-vice-president-richard-cheney,Smith Statement on the Passing of Vice President Richard Cheney,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement today regarding the passing of former Vice President Richard Cheney. “Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, Vice President Richard Cheney was a patriot who dedicated his life to service. From the Capitol, to the Pentagon, to the White House, he left an indelible mark on history, overseeing consequential action to defend American prerogatives and promote democracy around the globe. His leadership across five Presidential administrations was critical in addressing our nation’s starkest challenges. “Andrea and I send our condolences to the Cheney family and we will hold them in our prayers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-issues-statement-former-us-vice-president-dick-cheneys,Congressman Flood Issues Statement on Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney's Passing,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news that former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney had passed away. ""From his time in the House of Representatives to his service as Secretary of Defense and Vice President, Dick Cheney worked to make America and the world a safer, more peaceful place through his decades of public service. Many Nebraskans will remember him as native of Lincoln where he was born before his family made Wyoming their home. Mandi and I are praying for the Cheney family as we honor his life and service to our country,” said Congressman Flood.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2805,"Bacon, Suozzi, Hurd, Gottheimer Release Bipartisan Principles to Temporarily Extend and Reform Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits",2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Today, Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Tom Suozzi (D-NY-03), Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05) released a statement of principles for lowering health care costs and temporarily extending and reforming the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits (APTCs). The principles focus on a temporary extension with reasonable income caps and reform. Bacon, Suozzi, Hurd and Gottheimer released the following quote: “Congress is gridlocked, and too many Americans have lost faith that we can work together. But here’s the truth: Democrats and Republicans can sit down, listen to one another, and find common ground, especially when it comes to lowering health care costs. “We may not agree on every ideal outcome, but we’ve identified a fair, reasonable path forward on the future of the Affordable Care Act’s Enhanced Premium Tax Credits. Compromise isn’t rocket science and it shouldn’t be treated like a weakness. “Our hope is that this shared statement of principles will inspire bipartisan collaboration across Washington and help get Congress back to work for the American people.” Below, find the statement of principles: Principles to Temporarily Extend and Reform Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Temporary: A two-year extension of APTCs Income Cap: An income cap phased out between $200,000 and $400,000. Reform: Guardrails to prevent improper payments of APTCs Prevent “Ghost Beneficiaries”: Requirements that ACA marketplaces confirm recipient eligibility with the Death Master File Crack Down on Fraud: Establish a “preponderance of evidence” standard of proof to determine when an agent or broker should be allowed to continue operating in the ACA marketplaces. Enhance Delivery Clarity: Requirements that marketplaces better notify recipients the value of APTCs they are receiving from the federal government ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-applauds-state-treasurer-brieses-public-service-fremont,Congressman Flood Applauds State Treasurer Briese’s Public Service & Fremont Mayor Spellerberg’s Appointment,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued statements following news that Nebraska State Treasurer Tom Briese was stepping down and that Governor Jim Pillen had named Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg as the next State Treasurer. Rep. Flood Statement on Briese’s Retirement “Thank you to State Treasurer Tom Briese for his years of service to the State of Nebraska. Before his time as State Treasurer, Tom was a voice for Nebraska’s ag producers and working families in the Nebraska Unicameral where he shaped tax policy and championed pro-life legislation. In his time as State Treasurer, he pushed for property tax relief, supported successful efforts to expand the state’s 529 program, and implemented one of Nebraska’s first school choice programs. Best wishes to Tom and his wife Joan. Thank you for your years of public service to the state!” Rep. Flood’s Statement on Spellerberg’s Appointment “Congratulations to my good friend, Joey Spellerberg, on his appointment as the next State Treasurer. He has done an outstanding job as Mayor of Fremont and brings a broad array of experience as a community and local business leader. As our next State Treasurer, I know he will safeguard the state’s finances, be an outstanding steward of Nebraska’s college savings plan, and help deliver new operational efficiencies. I look forward to working with him as he steps into this important role as an advocate for our state’s taxpayers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-leads-house-letter-urging-priority-reimbursement-junior,Congressman Flood Leads House Letter Urging Priority Reimbursement for Junior Service Members Following Democrat Shutdown,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – ​Friday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, joined by Congressmen Nicholas Begich (AK), Zach Nunn (IA), Derrick Schmidt (KS), sent a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth urging the Department of War to prioritize reimbursements for junior service members once the federal government reopens. This letter received support from the National Military Family Association. “Representing Offutt Air Force Base, I know that enlisted and junior service members have been some of the hardest hit by the Democrat Shutdown. From families lining up at food pantries to participating in diaper drives, the shutdown’s impact on our rank-and-file military service members has been harsh. That’s why I’m leading this letter with my colleagues, along with support from the National Military Family Association, urging the Department of War to prioritize processing reimbursements for our junior service members. This will ensure they receive the funds they depend on as quickly as possible,” said Congressman Flood. “Delayed reimbursements might sound like a paperwork issue, but for many junior enlisted families it’s the difference between making rent and falling behind,” said Besa Pinchotti, CEO of the National Military Family Association. “Prioritizing these families once the shutdown is resolved will ensure that the service members with the least financial cushion aren’t left waiting the longest to be made whole.” ""Congress has made significant strides in recent years to improve quality of life for our junior enlisted personnel — many of whom, though, still live paycheck to paycheck. Pay uncertainty and interruptions can cause immediate financial hardship. Missed rent, childcare costs, and basic living expenses quickly accumulate, leaving the backbone of our military and their families in a precarious position,” wrote the Members in their letter. ""While all who serve are deserving of timely compensation, senior officers generally possess greater financial stability and access to credit or savings. During what will most certainly be an influx of requests for back pay, allowances, and reimbursement upon the re-opening of the government, it is both imperative and practical to prioritize those most in need."" A full copy of the letter can be found here. Congressman Flood represents Nebraska’s First Congressional District, which is home to Offutt Air Force Base and STRATCOM. He is the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-accepting-applications-spring-internship-program-1,"Congressman Flood Accepting Applications for Spring Internship Program in Washington, D.C.",2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced he is taking applications for the spring internship program in his Washington, D.C. office. “My office is now welcoming applications for our spring internship program in Washington, D.C.,” Congressman Flood announced. “Participants will have the chance to immerse themselves in the work of our nation’s capital and observe firsthand how public policy comes to life. If you have any interest in learning more about how our government works, I encourage you to apply today.” Interns will have the opportunity to work alongside each team with the office’s full-time congressional staff. The internship curriculum leaves interns with an understanding of how a congressional office administers constituent services, produces communications, its operations, works on legislative affairs, and conducts committee work. Additionally, interns will have the opportunity to attend congressional hearings, policy briefings, guest speaker events, exhibits, and networking opportunities on Capitol Hill. The deadline to apply for the spring internship is November 28, 2025. Applicants will be notified of their selection by December 19, and the internship will run from January 26 through May 8. Graphic design and writing experience are valued. Examples may be submitted along with a resume.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-chair-flood-and-ranking-member-cleaver-introduce-bipartisan,Housing & Insurance Chair Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver Introduce Bipartisan Legislation Modernizing HOME Program,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Housing & Insurance Subcommittee Chairman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Ranking Member Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) introduced H.R.5878, the “HOME Reform Act of 2025,” legislation that overhauls the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “America is in the midst of a housing crisis as families struggle to live the American dream due to the shortage of millions of homes,” said Chairman Flood (R-NE). “The HOME program is a federal program that builds housing supply, but it has previously been weighed down by regulatory burdens that make it hard to build housing. Thanks to the insights of those who work directly with HOME, and the invaluable teamwork of my colleague Ranking Member Cleaver, I believe the HOME Reform Act of 2025 will cut the red tape that has been holding this program back. The reforms in this legislation will result in more homebuilding across the country as we work to tackle our nation’s housing shortage. From Columbus, Nebraska to Columbus, Ohio and beyond, local communities will have an unprecedented opportunity to build affordable homes and directly address the housing crisis gripping our nation. I look forward to working to pass this legislation with broad bipartisan support."" “Americans in every community are struggling to stay afloat financially due to the high cost of housing, which is limiting opportunities for families to get ahead and weighing down local economies,” said Ranking Member Cleaver (D-MO). “This is a crisis that demands immediate bipartisan action to lower costs, and I’m pleased to join Chairman Flood in the effort to provide relief nationwide. By revamping and revitalizing the HOME Program—one of our greatest tools to expand the supply of affordable housing for working-class families—we can ensure that affordable housing and the American Dream of homeownership are once again attainable from the heartland to the coasts. After months of meetings and hearings with local leaders, housing stakeholders, and American families from across the country, I’m proud to introduce the Home Reform Act with Chairman Flood to lower housing costs in Missouri and beyond.” The HOME Reform Act represents the first major reform to the program since its authorization in 1990 as part of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act. The legislation provides greater flexibility for states and localities, cuts red tape, and supports the development and preservation of affordable housing. The HOME Reform Act of 2025 is the result of a bipartisan effort kickstarted by Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver earlier this year to develop meaningful solutions to the housing crisis in America. In April, Congressman Flood and Congressman Cleaver released a joint request for feedback on the HOME and CDBG programs. In July, the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee held a hearing entitled, “HOME 2.0: Modern Solutions to the Housing Shortage. The HOME Reform Act will streamline regulations to strengthen public-private partnerships in efforts to encourage the building of more housing and rental properties to bring down the cost of housing. Full text of the HOME Reform Act can be accessed here while a detailed section-by-section can be found here. Support for the HOME Reform Act The following groups support the legislation: Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition, American Planning Association (APA), Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH), Council for Affordable and Rural Housing (CARH), Council of State Community Development Agencies (COSCDA), Community Opportunity Alliance, Enterprise Community Partners, Fahe, Habitat for Humanity International, Housing Partnership Network (HPN), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Lincoln Avenue Communities, Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), Mercy Housing, Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), National Apartment Association (NAA), National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders (NAAHL), National Association of County Community and Economic Development (NACCED), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), National Association of Realtors (NAR), National Community Development Association (NCDA), National Community Stabilization Trust (NCST), National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), National Housing Conference (NHC), National Housing and Rehabilitation Association (NH&RA), National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC), National NeighborWorks Association (NNA), Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future (SAHF), Up for Growth, and the US Conference of Mayors. Congressman Mike Flood is the U.S. Representative for Nebraska’s First Congressional District, which includes Lincoln, Columbus, Fremont, Norfolk, Schuyler, Seward, and West Point. He is a member of the House Financial Services Committee where he serves as the Chairman of the Housing & Insurance Subcommittee. Rep. Flood is also the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus. Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-hails-economic-cooperation-japan-and-south-korea,Smith Hails Economic Cooperation with Japan and South Korea,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chair and Co-Chair of the U.S.-Japan Caucus Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced increased economic cooperation with Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung. ""Months of diligent work by President Trump and Ambassador Jamieson Greer are bringing about mutual prosperity and investment with our East Asian allies. I am particularly encouraged to see increased cooperation in innovation and technology advancements, including Japan’s assurances digital regulations will be implemented in a nondiscriminatory manner. As we work to strengthen our alliances with Japan and South Korea, this week’s progress marks significant progress for shared economic growth and regional security."" BACKGROUND: On October 24, Smith led 20 House Republicans in sending a letter urging President Trump to address fair treatment of American digital companies under Japan's Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) during his visit to Japan. On July 1st Smith and Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV) led 41 of their colleagues in sending a letter commending the Trump administration for its efforts in trade negotiations and urging it to address barriers imposed by the South Korean government unfairly targeting American service providers and innovators in digital industries. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2802,"Bacon, Bell Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Establish a National Day of the Deployed",2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate October 26 as a day of recognition honoring all U.S. service members currently deployed overseas and the families who support them at home. The observance would formally recognize the sacrifices made by deployed servicemembers who serve far from home, often in harm’s way, as well as their loved ones who shoulder the burden of separation and uncertainty in their absence. “The American men and women who are deployed around the globe to protect and defend our national interests are the front lines of defense for our democracy,” said Rep. Bacon. “I gladly served and deployed for my country. The all-volunteer force underpins everything we hold sacred as a nation, and the fact that they and their families sacrifice so much for our freedoms is a testament to their dedication. This recognition of the ‘Day of the Deployed’ is the least we can do for them.” “Behind every service-member serving abroad is a family that serves alongside them,” said Rep. Bell. “Everyday, our men and women in uniform risk their lives to defend our freedoms and democracy. A national day of recognition for their service and for their families is a simple but meaningful way to say thank you—to acknowledge their courage, commitment, and sacrifice, and to remind the country that freedom requires service, both seen and unseen.” Read the full bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-colleagues-urge-president-address-digital-trade-barriers-japan,"Smith, Colleagues Urge President to Address Digital Trade Barriers in Japan",2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) led 20 House Republicans in sending a letter urging President Donald Trump to address Japan's Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) during his visit to Japan. The MSCA targets American digital companies through unfair regulatory barriers which hamper innovation and threaten productivity. Key excerpts of the letter include: We applaud your Administration’s tireless efforts to address longstanding trade barriers that negatively impact U.S. companies operating in foreign markets. ... As you embark on your first trip to Asia of your current term, we wish to draw your attention to an area of ongoing concern in the U.S.-Japan bilateral trade relationship – the digital economy....Apparently drawing direct inspiration from the European Union’s highly problematic Digital Markets Act (DMA), Japan’s Mobile Software Competition Act (MSCA) targets solely U.S. companies for special rules and obligations that restrict how these companies can conduct business and interact with customers in Japan...No Japanese, Chinese, or other third-country companies are subject to the law. ... We encourage you to raise this issue in your upcoming meeting with the Prime Minister of Japan, and we stand at the ready to support your efforts to keep bringing down barriers for our world-leading digital companies. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-trade-deals-southeast-asian-nations,Smith Statement on Trade Deals with Southeast Asian Nations,2025-10-26,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chair Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced it had reached trade deals with Malaysia and Cambodia and established frameworks for agreements with Vietnam and Thailand to lower tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. ""President Trump and his trade team are taking pivotal strides to secure access in global markets for U.S. goods and services to the benefit of America’s farmers, ranchers, workers, and innovation drivers. The Agreements on Reciprocal Trade signed with Malaysia and Cambodia, as well as the frameworks announced with Vietnam and Thailand, represent meaningful progress for U.S. industry as we work to diversify our input supply chains and export markets. By strengthening strategic economic and national security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, the United States is better poised to counter the Chinese Communist Party’s influence throughout the region. I look forward to working with the President and Ambassador Greer to ensure the full benefits of these deals and purchase commitments are realized."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-ustr-investigation-chinas-failure-fulfill-phase-one-agreement,Smith Statement on USTR Investigation into China’s failure to Fulfill Phase One Agreement,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chair Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced initiation of a Section 301 investigation into China’s implementation of the Phase One Agreement. ""Since negotiation of the China Phase One Agreement during President Trump’s first term, China has failed to meet their purchase commitments, provide real intellectual property protections, or approve science-proven technology and production standards for our agricultural products. Rather than engaging in productive negotiations with the current administration to right the relationship, China has taken to eliminating purchases of our agricultural products, blocking exports of critical minerals, and further escalating tensions. I appreciate Ambassador Greer’s action to investigate implementation of the agreement and look forward to working with the administration to fully realize its benefits.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2801,Bacon Announces Staff Changes; Recognizes Role of Women in Senior Leadership,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) today announced recent staff changes, while also noting the role women play as part of his leadership team. Valerie Foy has been promoted to Deputy Chief of Staff, while also serving as Chief Counsel and Director of Foreign Policy. She joined Bacon’s D.C. staff in March 2018. Theresa Thibodeau has been promoted to District Director, previously serving as the Director of Outreach in the Omaha office. She joined the staff in March 2025. Communications Director Danielle Jensen has added Sr. Policy Advisor to her role on Bacon’s staff. She has served the 2nd District of Nebraska since January 2017, when Rep. Bacon was sworn in as a Member of Congress. Thibodeau joins Foy and Jensen on the Senior Leadership Team, where they have both served since 2019. “All three of these extraordinary leaders have excelled in their roles and have brought unique perspectives, advice, and understanding to our team,” said Bacon, “With three of the five members of our senior leadership team being women, I’d say ‘women rule the roost’ in our office.” “Their drive for excellence, laser focus on constituent services and a career of service has a direct and positive impact on my ability to serve this district. Our office is routinely selected as one of the most effective in all of Congress and these three great leaders make it happen. They’re breaking the glass ceiling!” Bios: Valerie Foy serves as Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Counsel, and Director of Foreign Policy in the office of Congressman Don Bacon, representing Nebraska’s Second Congressional District. As Chief Counsel, Valerie is the primary advisor for all legal matters within the office and provides foreign policy development for Rep. Bacon in coordination with the defense policy team in furtherance of the Congressman’s committee priorities. Valerie also handles a broad portfolio of policy issues, including financial services, tax, commerce, business, and veteran affairs. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maine; her Master of Science from Troy State University; her Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law and her Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Alabama School of Law. Prior to joining Rep. Bacon’s office, Valerie practiced law, worked in the financial services industry, and served as a United States Air Force Officer. Theresa Thibodeau is the current District Director for Congressman Don Bacon, where she leads district operations, oversees constituent services, and manages strategic engagement across Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. Theresa is an entrepreneur, community leader, and former Nebraska State Senator from Omaha. A graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she was an Academic All-American in track and cross country, she built a career in human resources before owning and operating the Primrose School of La Vista, a highly regarded early childhood education center. In the Nebraska Legislature, she focused on education, economic development, and health care, and she continues to serve her community through leadership roles on numerous boards. A graduate of Leadership Omaha and Leadership Sarpy, she has been recognized with honors such as the Midlands Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and Sarpy County’s Up and Coming Business Award. She also spends time reading about current trends in business and economic development, as well as researching public policy. Danielle Jensen currently manages the overall integrated communication strategies for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District representative, Rep. Don Bacon, and provides advice and research on policy issues. She is a seasoned communications and government affairs professional with a combined 20 years of experience in integrated communications, legislative processes, coalition building, marketing, event planning, political fundraising, and news broadcasting. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Broadcasting at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she was active in UNO’s Student Government, serving as a Student Senator, Speaker of the Senate, Chief Administrative Officer, and Student Court Justice. In December 2016, she was recognized by Governor Pete Ricketts as an Admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska. Before joining Congressman Bacon’s office, Danielle worked for the Nebraska Energy Office, Meridian Central Public Affairs, I-80 Speedway, Stenberg for Senate, Lee Terry for Congress, WOW-AM and FM, and KMTV. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-passing-barry-kennedy,Smith Statement on Passing of Barry Kennedy,2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the passing of former President of Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry Barry Kennedy: ""Nebraska lost a true leader with the passing of Barry Kennedy. His heart of service, drive to grow Nebraska's economy, and dedication to family defined his life. Barry's integrity and care for others will continue to inspire all of us who knew him."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-barry-kennedys-passing,Congressman Flood’s Statement on Barry Kennedy’s Passing,2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on the passing of Barry Kennedy, former president of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry. ""From the campaign trail to the State Capitol Rotunda, Barry Kennedy was respected among his peers and loved by the Legislature. Early in my career, Barry sat me down and ultimately became a big supporter and a mentor of mine. Barry and I worked together on virtually every business issue imaginable. His support through the years helped shape public policy and make me and many others successful. Mandi and I are keeping his family in our prayers as we celebrate his life’s work, which has left a significant mark on our state and made Nebraska a better place for everyone.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-beef-industry-needs-certainty,Smith: Beef Industry Needs Certainty,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement calling on the Trump administration to advance policies which support American beef producers and consumers. ""The hardworking families who raise cattle in Nebraska and all across our great country deserve policy which fights as hard as they do to put food on the table. The commonsense initiatives announced by USDA help provide current and future generations with the certainty they need to provide American families with affordable, nutritious protein. Certainly, these policies are welcome. However, our agriculture industry has been hit by historic setbacks in recent years, and policy and statements which unduly influence and undermine the domestic cattle market threaten our domestic food security and are not helpful. ""I am particularly concerned about the announcement regarding Argentine beef, as it appears to contradict President Trump’s efforts to fight tooth and nail to ensure American producers and workers receive fair treatment and prices for their products all around the world."" Download audio here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2800,"Bacon, Khanna Call on President Trump to Remove the Tariffs on Coffee",2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, DC — Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Ro Khanna (CA-17), sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging his administration to exempt coffee from reciprocal tariff measures that are driving up costs for American consumers. Reps. Khanna and Bacon also recently introduced the bipartisan “No Coffee Tax Act” to repeal the tariffs on coffee. “Families across America are feeling the cost of higher coffee prices, which are already up 21 percent, and tariffing a product we can't grow at a large, commercial scale, only makes it worse. Tariffs are a tax on American consumers, raising the price of everyday goods without creating jobs or bringing production on-shore. Article One of the Constitution makes clear that Congress has the authority to set tariffs, and Congress needs to reclaim its authorities,” said Rep. Bacon. “The tariffs are hurting coffee drinkers and small business owners across the country. We only produce 1% of the coffee that Americans consume. Tariffs on coffee make no economic sense. I hope the administration will do the right thing and provide relief to the millions who consume coffee every day and the businesses that serve our communities,” said Rep. Khanna. Full text of the letter below: Dear President Trump: Two out of three Americans enjoy a cup of coffee every day. But recent tariff measures have forced them to pay 26 percent more for their morning cup of coffee. We respectfully request you exempt coffee from reciprocal tariff measures that are drastically increasing its price. Coffee does not have a viable large-scale domestic alternative. Though Hawai‘i and Puerto Rico grow small quantities of specialty coffee, domestic production accounts for less than 1 percent of all the coffee consumed by Americans. Tariffs on coffee do not protect domestic businesses and interests—they only raise costs and amount to an additional tax on American consumers. It is not practical to tariff a product that our nation does not meaningfully produce. In light of these facts, we respectfully request your administration exempt coffee from reciprocal tariff measures that are drastically increasing its price. The administration can do this by adding coffee (both green beans, as well as roasted and ground products) to Annex II of Executive Order 14257. Given that our nation consumes around 400 million cups per day, this action is one modest but meaningful way to help the American people. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-america-doesnt-need-more-foreign-beef,Congressman Flood: America Doesn’t Need More Foreign Beef,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement following news that the Trump administration planned to quadruple Argentine beef imports to the United States. “America produces the highest-quality, safest beef in the world. The USDA’s plan to invest in independent domestic production capacity for beef processing would strengthen both food and national security, but the administration’s push to import foreign beef from Argentina would undermine domestic producers. Argentine beef doesn’t hold a candle to what our families produce. The overall goal of keeping Argentina from falling into the arms of China is really important, but we can do this without hurting America’s cattle producers. I urge the Trump administration to find another way to accomplish their goal without expanding foreign beef imports.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-colleagues-urge-governors-opt-federal-school-choice-initiative,"Smith, Colleagues Urge Governors to Opt in to Federal School Choice Initiative",2025-10-16,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, Reps. Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Burgess Owens (R-UT), Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Tim Scott (R-SC), and House Committee on Education and Workforce Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI), sent letters to the governors of all 50 U.S. states and the mayor of the District of Columbia. In the letters, the members called upon the governors to opt in to a new federal scholarship tax credit initiative, allowing students, parents, and scholarship granting organizations (SGOs) in their state to participate. Key excerpts of the letter include: ... This innovative credit will unlock billions of private dollars to fund scholarships for K-12 students across the country, including in your state. ... Importantly, this tax credit complements existing state-level education programs. It will not impact federal or state education funding or diminish public schools. Instead, it gives families more options—whether in public or private, religious or non-religious settings—and allows students to either pursue new opportunities or enrich their current education. ... While the tax credit officially launches on January 1, 2027, it is important for states to opt in early to provide certainty to students and SGOs. Read the full letter here. BACKGROUND: On July 4, 2025, a provision included in the working families tax cuts package based on Smith, Cassidy, Owens, and Scott's Educational Choice for Children Act became the first federal school choice program enacted into law. Due to a questionable determination made by the Senate parliamentarian shortly before the legislation's passage in the Senate, governors are required annually to designate participating SGOs in order to make scholarship opportunities available to students in their state. On September 29, Smith joined Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen for a press conference as Nebraska became the first state to formally announce its intent to opt in. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2783,Bacon Issues Statement on Reported Israel and Hamas Deal,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement regarding the reported agreement to a deal between Israel and Hamas: “We are all hopeful that the hostages still being held by Hamas will finally be released, which is long overdue. They have been abused, physically and mentally, and we need to get them home as soon as possible. This reported agreement to the first step in President Trump’s peace agreement between Israel and Hamas is very welcome and celebrated. I pray that the rest of the agreement will be decided upon soon.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-confirmation-barloon-ambassador-wto,Smith Statement on Confirmation of Barloon as Ambassador to WTO,2025-10-08,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Joseph Barloon as United States Deputy Trade Representative and Ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO). ""Congratulations to Joseph Barloon on his confirmation as Deputy U.S. Trade Representative and U.S. Ambassador to the WTO. U.S. leadership on trade remains crucial to leveling the playing field for hardworking Americans, and his experience will complement the Trump administration's vigorous approach on trade issues. Unfortunately, the previous administration abdicated American leadership on trade. The U.S. must be a leader in setting global trade rules which protect innovation, provide a level playing field, and counter the influence of non-market economies. This is why a strong presence at the WTO is vitally important. I look forward to working with Amb. Barloon and continuing to work with the Trump administration to advance a trade agenda which champions American workers, producers, and businesses."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2782,Bacon Releases Statement on Two-Year Anniversary of October 7th Attack,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued a statement on the second anniversary of the October 7th attack. “On October 7, 2023, the world witnessed unimaginable evil. Hamas terrorists brutally murdered 1,200 innocent men, women, and children in the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Many were tortured, raped, or burned alive, and approximately 20 hostages still remain in captivity, with some victims' bodies yet to be returned to their families. That morning, I received a call from a Jewish American friend in tears. She said something terrible is happening in Israel, will you please stand with us? I promised her, as I promise again today, that I will always stand with our Jewish and Israeli friends against this evil. Hamas is a terrorist organization that must be defeated, and Israel has every right to defend itself. “Since that day, antisemitism has surged across America. We see it on our campuses, online, and in our communities. Our nation was founded on freedom, equality, and respect for human dignity, and we cannot allow hatred to take root. As Americans, we have a moral obligation to confront this challenge head-on. When we say, “never again,” we must ensure those words are more than symbolic. They must be backed by sincerity, unity, and steadfast resolve. When it comes to antisemitism, I refuse to be a bystander.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2793,Bacon Brief: Government Shutdown,2025-10-02,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Dear friend, Two weeks ago, House Republicans did our job by passing a clean, bipartisan Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government. This gave both chambers plenty of time to process it. However, all of the Democrat Senators but three voted against the CR. I want to thank Democratic Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, and Sen. Angus King of Maine, an Independent who caucuses with Democrats, for choosing our country over party. The passed CR is no different than the13 passed during the Biden Administration, and I joined them for all but one. The proposed CR would have saved the government from shutting down. This clean CR will: Deliver paychecks for our troops, Border Patrol agents, TSA agents, and Air Traffic Controllers. Prevent delays processing new applications for Social Security and Medicare. Give veterans the healthcare they deserve without delays. Keep National Parks open. Continue vital food inspections. One issue that I think we can negotiate on is the extension of the COVID-era Obamacare Tax Subsidies, which are set to expire on December 31, 2025. These were enacted to help those who lost their incomes during the pandemic. Some of my Republican colleagues and I believe we can negotiate on this during the regular appropriations process. To do that, we need a clean CR to pass the Senate. Although the pandemic is over, we recognize that people are facing increased premiums, and lower- and middle-class earners will be particularly affected by them. However, under the current COVID-era subsidies, income limits went away, and instead, a percentage of income was used. Personally, I don’t think someone making $500,000, or even $300,000 needs a subsidy for their Obamacare insurance. My colleagues and I would like to examine income caps to consider extending them. Thanks, and as always, it is a pleasure to serve the 2nd District of Nebraska. We have updated our website with information on what is open or closed. You can access that information here. Sincerely, Rep. Don Bacon Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2808,Bacon Asks for Pay to Be Withheld,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Omaha, Neb. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement asking for his pay to be withheld during the government shutdown: “I have notified the Chief Administrative Officer of the House to withhold my net pay until an appropriations agreement has taken effect.” A copy of the letter is here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-government-shutdown,Smith Statement on Government Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after Senate Democrats refused to support legislation to prevent a lapse in federal appropriations leading to a government shutdown. ""This unfortunate shutdown was avoidable. Earlier in September, House Republicans passed a bill to provide time to responsibly address spending. The fact Democrats don't want our country to move forward while they make ideological demands is unfortunate for veterans and others who are served by federal agencies, for our servicemembers who are now at risk of going without pay for a time, and for the American people."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2776,"Bacon, Kamlager-Dove, Foster Youth Caucus Reintroduce Resolution to Support Kinship Care",2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) and Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Foster Youth Caucus reintroduced the National Kinship Care Month resolution to strengthen kinship care and promote permanency for foster youth. Research shows that kinship care placements improve behavioral and mental health outcomes, counter adverse child and adult outcomes, and promote a sense of belonging and connection, including to siblings and grandparents. This bipartisan resolution recognizes and supports the more than 300,000 children in foster care and over two million kinship caregivers. “Research shows that Kinship care for children helps with placement stability and improves the child’s well-being, behavioral, and mental health outcomes,” said Rep. Bacon. ""If we start to change the way we view foster care children, we can limit their time in the system. This resolution reminds us that kinship placement is a significant first step to decrease the number of children in care; give them a way to stay connected to their families; and reduce some of the trauma during the removal process.” “As Co-Chair of the Foster Youth Caucus, I know that foster children thrive best when cared for by relatives or trusted family friends in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “That’s why I’m proud to champion this legislative package to honor kinship care and support lasting, permanent homes for foster youth. By breaking down the barriers to kinship guardianship, we can help young people stay connected to their roots while giving them the strong foundation they need to grow, succeed, and build bright futures.” “Supporting kinship care is a critical part of ensuring that all children can grow up in stable and loving homes,” said Rep. Scanlon. “But families are often overwhelmed by the barriers they face to get the resources they need to care for younger relatives when their parents are unavailable. I saw this firsthand while working for decades as a child advocate, representing families struggling to overcome legal, financial, and emotional challenges while providing kinship care. I am proud to join my fellow Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth in recognizing September 2025 as National Kinship Care Month to celebrate the committed and nurturing family members who step up to care for children in their life.” “As a father of six who adopted two children through the foster system, I’ve seen firsthand the love and sacrifice it takes to give a child a forever home,” said Rep. Nunn. “Kinship Care Month recognizes the relatives, friends, and trusted neighbors who step up to ensure kids have the stability and sense of belonging they deserve."" “Behind every child in kinship care is a family member who never planned for this role but took it on without hesitation,” said Rep. Houchin. “Families who step up for children in need often do so quietly and without the expectation of any support. National Kinship Care Month is one small way to recognize the invaluable role they play.” The National Kinship Care Month resolution is co-led by Reps. Gwen Moore, Mary Gay Scanlon, Don Bacon, Erin Houchin, and Zach Nunn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2780,Bacon Issues Statement on Government Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement after Democrat Leadership failed to pass a clean Continuing Resolution (CR): “Republicans passed a clean, short-term CR with no additional funding except for security for Members of Congress and Federal office holders such as judges. Schumer and Jeffries catered to their far-left base by opposing a clean CR. Many Republicans are willing to negotiate on ACA tax credits as part of the normal appropriations process that will require bipartisanship to pass, but it is very unusual for either party to oppose a clean CR. Under the Biden Administration, Republicans worked with Democrats to pass a clean CR 13 times. I would like to thank Democratic Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Sen. Angus King of Maine, an Independent who caucuses with Democrats, for choosing Americans over party.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/housing-insurance-committee-chair-democrat-government-shutdown-negatively,Housing & Insurance Committee Chair: Democrat Government Shutdown Negatively Impacts Flood Insurance Program,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood, chair of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee, issued a statement ahead of a possible government shutdown. “A federal government shutdown is looming as Washington Democrats hold up government funding. One of the consequences of this will be that the National Flood Insurance Program will be severely impacted at midnight tonight. This means no new flood insurance contracts will be issued and consequently real estate transactions that require flood insurance may get held up. Democrats need to come to the table and vote to keep the government open, so we can make Washington work for the people and keep critical programs like flood insurance available.” Congressman Flood represents Nebraska’s First Congressional District. He is the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus as well as the Chair of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/photos-smith-hosts-ag-trade-under-secretary-visits-producers-about-usmca,"PHOTOS: Smith Hosts Ag Trade Under Secretary, Visits with Producers about USMCA",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) hosted U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg during a visit to Nebraska. The officials toured the Preferred Popcorn headquarters in Chapman, NE, the Mars Petcare production facility in Aurora, and held a listening session on the 2026 Joint Review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement with local agriculture producers and manufacturers at Central Valley Ag in York. The officials released the following statements. ""Mexico and Canada are Nebraska’s most significant agriculture export markets, and USMCA plays a vital role, ensuring our farmers and ranchers have a level playing field,"" said Rep. Smith. ""As the Trump administration gathers stakeholder feedback, input from our producers is critical to ensure a successful review process. I thank Under Secretary Lindberg, who has been a fierce advocate for American agriculture both at home and abroad, for taking the time to hear from Nebraskans."" ""Nebraska is an agricultural powerhouse, and their products are in high demand around the world,"" said Under Sec. Lindberg. ""I’d like to thank Chairman Smith, Governor Pillen, and Director Vinton for hosting me today and showcasing some of the incredible agricultural products being made, grown, and raised in Nebraska and delivered around the globe."" To access high-resolution photos click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2773,"Bacon, Bell, Carbajal, Introduce Bipartisan Baltic Security Assessment Act to Strengthen National Security and Support NATO Allies",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Wesley Bell (MO-01), and Salud Carbajal (CA-24), introduced the Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, a bipartisan measure to ensure the United States maintains a clear, comprehensive understanding of the threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania from hostile actors, including Russia, China, Iran, Belarus, and North Korea. Under the legislation, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, will be required to deliver a detailed report to Congress within 180 days assessing emerging military, cyber, hybrid, and political threats to the Baltic nations. The report will also identify opportunities to strengthen U.S.–Baltic defense cooperation, reinforce the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) collective defense posture, bolster cybersecurity infrastructure, and enhance democratic resilience in the region. “The Baltic nations have witnessed firsthand the reality of Soviet oppression and today stand as beacons of democracy in the face of increasing threats from Russia and its allies. I'm grateful to co-lead the Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, which strengthens our commitment to our steadfast allies Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania,” said Rep. Bacon, co-chair of the House Baltic Caucus. “This bipartisan legislation will improve our understanding of emerging military, cyber, and hybrid threats to the Baltic states through a comprehensive assessment, while reaffirming America's unwavering support for these vital NATO partners.” “Putin’s unprovoked war on Ukraine is a stark reminder that our Baltic allies are on the frontlines of the fight for freedom and democracy,” said Rep. Bell. “The Baltic Security Assessment Act will give the United States a clear picture of the threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, and strengthen our ability to support them. This bipartisan bill reinforces NATO’s collective defense and ensures we stand united against those who seek to undermine freedom.” “Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine has underscored the urgent need to stand firmly with our Baltic allies,” said Rep. Carbajal, co-chair of the House Baltic Caucus. “The Baltic Security Assessment Act reinforces our Baltic alliances, bolsters regional stability, and advances our shared security goals.” Last week, three Russian military jets violated Estonia's airspace for 12 minutes, the latest in a series of military actions by Russia that have provoked NATO members. This follows the 20 Russian drones fired into Poland’s airspace during the evening of September 9. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have been NATO members since 2004 and have played an active role in the alliance’s collective defense. The Baltic nations have been on the frontlines of countering Russian aggression, particularly since Moscow’s illegal invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The bill underscores the United States’ commitment to ensuring these allies have the resources, intelligence, and cooperation needed to defend themselves and the transatlantic alliance. Read the full bill text here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2772,"Reps. Bacon and Smith and Sens. Hirono and Collins Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Close Loophole that Impacts Adoptee Families",2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and Adam Smith (D-Wash.) and Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) introduced the Protect Adoptees and American Families Act, which would grant U.S. citizenship to international adoptees who were legally adopted in the U.S. as children but lack citizenship status due to a loophole in the Child Citizenship Act of 2000. “As the father to two adopted children, I can’t imagine the uncertainty and anxiety faced by these adoptees who were legally adopted in our country, but are now being told they aren’t U.S. citizens,” said Rep. Bacon. “While this situation was rectified for newly adopted children when the law was passed in 2000, adoptees from before that year were left in limbo land. Imagine being allowed to vote, paying into social security and enjoying other rights as a citizen, and then being told you are not a citizen. It makes zero sense and this legislation corrects that egregious mistake.” “For decades, thousands of people who were adopted into loving American families have lived in legal limbo through no fault of their own,” said Rep. Smith. “The Protect Adoptees and American Families Act will finally close this loophole and guarantee citizenship to adoptees who have spent their lives in the United States and deserve the same rights as any other American. This bipartisan legislation is about fairness, dignity, and ensuring that families remain whole.” “Thousands of American families and their internationally-adopted children have been living in fear and uncertainty due to an oversight in the Child Citizenship Act, which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing legislation that would provide a long overdue solution to address this issue,” said Senator Hirono. “The Protect Adoptees and American Families Act will help keep families together, and ensure that international adoptees are afforded the rights they deserve as U.S. citizens.” “It is simply not right that international adoptees who were legally adopted in the United States are being denied citizenship due to a loophole in current law,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan bill would address this loophole and allow these individuals to finally achieve their rightful status as American citizens.” BACKGROUND Families who adopted children from abroad were previously required to complete a lengthy, expensive naturalization process for their adopted children, on top of the adoption process itself. In some cases, the paperwork was not completed in full, leaving adoptees unaware they were living in the U.S. without citizenship. The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 (CCA) streamlined this process by granting automatic citizenship to foreign-born children under 18 adopted by U.S. citizens. However, the law only applied to adoptees under age 18 at the time the CCA took effect in February 2001. Adoptees who had already reached adulthood were excluded, leaving tens of thousands of people without citizenship despite being raised in American families. The Protect Adoptees and American Families Act fixes this gap by confirming U.S. citizenship for internationally adopted individuals, regardless of when they were adopted or their age. Specifically, the bill: Provides automatic citizenship to foreign-born children lawfully adopted by U.S. families who turned 18 before February 27, 200. Establishes a path to citizenship for adoptees living abroad who meet eligibility requirements but currently reside outside the U.S. This process includes background checks and the resolution of any outstanding legal matters before citizenship is granted. This legislation will provide long-overdue certainty for adoptees who have faced barriers to higher education, employment, and financial services, and who in some cases have even faced deportation to countries where they have no family or community ties.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2771,"Bacon, Khanna Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Repeal Costly Tariffs on Coffee",2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Today, Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Ro Khanna (CA-17) were joined by Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) to introduce the bipartisan “No Coffee Tax Act,” that will repeal the Trump administration’s tariffs on coffee and lower costs for consumers. The U.S. is the largest importer of coffee in the world. Brazil, the top source for U.S. coffee, has faced a 50% tariff under the Trump administration’s tariff policy, contributing to a surge in prices. U.S. retail coffee prices increased by nearly 21% last month compared to the same month last year. The No Coffee Tax Act will bring coffee tariffs back to the level they were the day before President Trump took office. That level was 0% on everything other than coffee substitutes containing coffee. “Families across America are feeling the cost of higher coffee prices, which are already up 21 percent, and tariffing a product we can't grow at a large, commercial scale, only makes it worse. Tariffs are simply a tax on American consumers, raising the price of everyday goods without creating jobs or bringing production on-shore. Article One of the Constitution makes clear that Congress has the authority to set tariffs, and this legislation begins to reclaim that authority. I look forward to working with Rep. Khanna on this bipartisan bill and believe it can help spark the broader debate about Congress reclaiming its constitutional role in tariff policy.” said Rep. Bacon. “Americans started a revolution over a tax on tea. U.S. coffee prices have increased significantly in the last year, in part due to Trump’s tariffs. If you drink coffee every morning, how can you not be mad about that? Our bipartisan bill is simple: it removes Trump's tariffs on coffee to bring down costs,” said Rep. Khanna. For the full bill text, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-writes-ethics-committee-regarding-rep-omars-reprehensible-speech-and,Rep. Flood Writes Ethics Committee Regarding Rep. Omar’s Reprehensible Speech and Conduct,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (NE) previewed his intention to file a formal complaint with the House Committee on Ethics against Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (MN) in a letter. In his letter to the Ethics Committee, Rep. Flood cites a wide variety of instances of conduct and speech he believes reflect poorly on the House and violate the House’s code of conduct. “I am a strong defender of the United States Constitution and every citizen's right to the freedom of speech. While Representative Omar maintains these fundamental liberties, she is Member of the House of Representatives and must abide by the rules that govern this body,” wrote Rep. Flood in his letter. “Her pattern of behavior clearly demonstrates she has not acted in a manner that reflects creditably on the House, violating the Official Code of Conduct of the House of Representatives. I do not take this matter lightly, and Representative Omar must be held accountable. Based on the points enumerated in this letter, I urge the House Committee on Ethics investigate Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota for violating Clause 1 of Rule XXIII of the Official Code of Conduct of the House of Representatives. I also intend to submit a formal complaint to the House Committee on Ethics.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2770,Stakeholders Applaud Bacon for Reintroducing Legislation to Strengthen America’s Agricultural Security,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Washington – Stakeholders and organizations are applauding Representative Don Bacon (NE-02) for reintroducing H.R. 4155, the American Agricultural Security Research Act of 2025 which will bolster cyber defenses for our nation's food supply chain and secure America's agricultural sector. With the U.S. agri-food sector reporting forty cyberattack incidents in the first quarter of 2024 alone, the American Agricultural Security Research Act addresses an urgent national security concern. The legislation will establish Centers of Excellence at higher education institutions and create a competitive USDA grant program to strengthen our agricultural cybersecurity infrastructure. “Our national security and our agricultural industry are inextricably linked,” said Rep. Bacon. “There are only nine meals between civilization and total anarchy. For this reason, I introduced the American Agricultural Security Act to ensure we stay ahead of emerging threats to our food supply chain.” While new technologies have enabled food production to become one of the most automated industries in the world, adversaries have increasingly looked to undermine our nation’s most vital industry through increased cyberattacks. The American Agricultural Security Research Act addresses these challenges by: Enabling the Secretary of Agriculture to establish Centers of Excellence at institutions of higher education to research and engage in extension on topics related to cybersecurity, biosecurity, and agricultural production. Establishing a competitive grant program within USDA to support research, extension, and education activities that improve the capability of the United States to protect the food and agricultural system from attack or other global catastrophic threats. The full text of H.R. 4155, the American Agricultural Security Research Act of 2025 can be found here. Below are statements of support from stakeholders: “The American Agricultural Security Act protects the technology and infrastructure that keeps our nation's food supply chain secure,” said Kip Eideberg, Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations, Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).“Cybersecurity is national security, and AEM greatly appreciates Representative Don Bacon's leadership on legislation that will ensure the safe production, distribution, and consumption of American-grown food, and facilitate the increased adoption of precision agriculture technology by growers across the country.” “American agriculture faces mounting threats from both natural and man-made hazards, placing the nation’s food supply and rural economies at increasing risk,” said Jared Brown, Executive Director, Global Shield. “Representative Bacon's proposed American Agricultural Research Act is a critical step in ensuring that vital research is conducted to protect America's food supply from all forms of catastrophic risk, thereby protecting both Americans and our vital contributions to the global food supply. Global Shield is proud to support this critical piece of legislation.” “America's farmers and ranchers don't feed just our country, they feed the world. And as adversaries grow more sophisticated, we must stay ahead of the threats facing our food supply,” said Rep. Ellzey, Co-Chair, For Country Caucus. “The For Country Caucus is proud to endorse the American Agricultural Security Research Act because it invests in the research and innovation needed to defend our agricultural systems from cyber and biological attacks. In a time when our security is being threatened more than ever, this will protect our producers, our economy, and our national security.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-encourages-nebraskans-submit-comments-ustr-opens-public-consultation,Smith Encourages Nebraskans to Submit Comments as USTR Opens Public Consultation on USMCA Review,2025-09-17,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), as directed by Congress, announced the beginning of a 45-day public comment period in advance of the 2026 Joint Review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). ""As we near the six-year review of USMCA, it is important for Nebraskans to share their perspectives on the agreement’s successes and potential improvements. When negotiated in 2018, USMCA set a new standard for market access, science-driven standards, and effective enforcement. Feedback from the American people is an essential component to strengthen our shared economic security and ensure the full benefits of the agreement are realized by producers and consumers."" The deadline for submitting comments is November 3, 2025. USTR also invites the public to express interest in participating in a public hearing on this topic. To submit a comment or request to participate in the hearing, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2765,"Reps. Bacon, Chu Lead Colleagues in Urging House Appropriators to Explicitly Protect NASA Funding in Upcoming Continuing Resolution",2025-09-16,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Lawmakers warn a CR anomaly for NASA is needed to prevent the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) from prematurely making dramatic cuts at NASA without the consent of Congress WASHINGTON, D.C. –Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) and Judy Chu (CA-28) led a group of bipartisan colleagues in sending a letter yesterday to House Appropriations Committee leaders urging them to include language in this week’s anticipated short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) that would explicitly protect NASA funding at no less than the currently-enacted levels. “Without an anomaly providing guidance on the NASA budget,” the Members wrote, “OMB has pledged to apply its proposed FY 2026 cuts as soon as October 1st. That would result in an unprecedented, single-year cut to NASA, particularly NASA’s space science activities, resulting in irreversible impacts on America’s space leadership and capabilities.” The letter notes that the cuts to NASA funding proposed in the FY26 President’s Budget Request (PBR) would be devastating for the agency and would affect every state and nearly every congressional district. The lawmakers note that if implemented, the FY26 PBR would: create needless disruption and uncertainty that threatens project timelines and risks unanticipated budget growth, throw away billions of dollars of functioning spacecraft, weaken national security, stifle the space economy, and ultimately surrender American space leadership to our adversaries like China. The letter commends House Appropriators for largely rejecting these cuts in the Committee’s Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, but notes that Congress must act now and provide explicit guidance in the CR to ensure the Administration adheres to Congressional intent. “We therefore respectfully ask the Committee to include language in the CR explicitly protecting NASA funding at no less than the FY 2024/2025 enacted levels. Congress has acted before to protect essential programs under CRs, and NASA – a vital part of our economy, our national security, and our global standing – deserves the same protection,” concluded the lawmakers. Click here for the full text of the letter. ""Congress has made its intentions clear: NASA should not be cut, and America's leadership in space science must be preserved,” said Casey Dreier, Chief of Space Policy at The Planetary Society. “This message is bipartisan and bicameral. There is no ambiguity here. But given the uncertainty projected by OMB, and the irreversible consequences of potentially terminating dozens of one-of-a-kind space assets and disbanding skilled teams across the country, it is critical that our elected officials provide clear directives in the upcoming Continuing Resolution. We commend the Co-Chairs of the Planetary Science Caucus and its allies for taking this strong stand to protect NASA and ensure congressional intent is respected on October 1st and through all of FY 2026.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-lets-honor-charlie-kirk-defending-first-amendment-freedoms,Congressman Flood: Let's Honor Charlie Kirk by Defending First Amendment Freedoms,2025-09-16,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) delivered remarks on the House floor ahead of Constitution Day, which is observed on September 17, 2025. Congressman Flood focused his remarks on upholding and defending First Amendment rights following the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. A video of his remarks can be accessed by clicking here. News outlets are welcome to use the footage for reporting purposes. The full text of Congressman Flood’s speech is provided below. Mister Speaker. I rise as Constitution Day approaches. The assassination of Charlie Kirk is a watershed moment for free speech. Charlie made a name for himself exercising his First Amendment rights and he was shot while answering a question from a liberal influencer. His assassination sends a message that if you disagree on the wrong issues, you might end up paying for it - even with your life. Regardless of politics, Americans don’t want a country where people are shot for their views. Freedom of speech is under serious threat. From gender ideology to race, the far left has weaponized political correctness, punishing dissenters with social and professional consequences. If we want the First Amendment to survive this moment, we must restore respect for the rule of law and confront the factors fueling division. Charlie Kirk was reaching out to the other side when he died, and to honor his legacy, we should do the same. Thank you, and I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2764,"Bacon, Flood Introduce Bill to Support College Students' Access to Mental Health Care",2025-09-15,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Don Bacon (NE), joined by Mike Flood (NE) and Rep. Zach Nunn (IA), introduced the “College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act.” “College can be stressful for many students as they experience being away from their family and friends for an extended period, and nearly 77 percent experience some kind of psychological distress,” said Congressman Bacon. “Allowing college campus mental health providers to continue the care of their college student through telehealth will fill a need for when students are home during breaks. I’m pleased to join Rep. Flood on this bill to extend this needed care to college students in their times of need.” “It is no secret that mental health is one of the most urgent crises of our time, especially among young adults,” said Congressman Flood. “Many colleges and universities include mental health care in their health service offerings to students. Current regulations, however, can prevent the continuation of these services when students are off campus and out of state. This bill simply allows students to maintain consistent access to their trusted providers throughout the year. That’s why I’m pleased to introduce this bill during National Suicide Prevention Month. I thank my colleagues for joining me in this effort to help address the mental health crisis affecting our nation."" “Mental health support is a critical lifeline for students, and that need does not stop when they head home for break or the holidays,” said Congressman Nunn. ""Right now, crossing a state line can cut off access to trusted care providers. Our bill removes that barrier so students can stay connected to the care they rely on.” ""This bill is a crucial step toward building a more supportive and responsive mental health system that meets the needs of today’s college student population,” said American College Health Association (ACHA) CEO James Wilkinson. ""We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Flood and his colleagues for introducing this legislation to support the mental health and well-being of college students. The Congressman listened to the challenges our members shared and immediately began researching and drafting a solution. His commitment to ensuring students don't lose access to their mental health services when they leave the state for school breaks or internships is a testament to his dedication to their success."" The “College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act” allows colleges and universities to extend the mental health care that college students use while on campus. Specifically, the legislation allows mental health providers to continue their care and services via three means: Allows mental health providers employed by Institutes of High Education to offer telehealth mental health care services to a student of the same institution- regardless of state lines. Protecting the ability of states to continue participating in existing interstate healthcare compacts. Expanding interstate telehealth care to incoming students who have registered for classes, as well as students who have attended courses within the last three months at the time of seeking care from a mental health provider from the Institutes of Higher Education. A full copy of the legislation can be accessed by clicking here. Support for the College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act The following groups support the legislation: American College Health Association, Association of College and University Housing Officers-International, and National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-flood-introduces-bill-support-college-students-access-mental-health-care,Rep. Flood Introduces Bill to Support College Students' Access to Mental Health Care,2025-09-15,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Flood (NE), joined by Rep. Don Bacon (NE) and Rep. Zach Nunn (IA), introduced the “College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act.” “It is no secret that mental health is one of the most urgent crises of our time, especially among young adults,” said Congressman Flood. “Many colleges and universities include mental health care in their health service offerings to students. Current regulations, however, can prevent the continuation of these services when students are off campus and out of state. This bill simply allows students to maintain consistent access to their trusted providers throughout the year. That’s why I’m pleased to introduce this bill during National Suicide Prevention Month. I thank my colleagues for joining me in this effort to help address the mental health crisis affecting our nation."" “College can be stressful for many students as they experience being away from their family and friends for an extended period, and nearly 77 percent experience some kind of psychological distress,” said Congressman Bacon. “Allowing college campus mental health providers to continue the care of their college student through telehealth will fill a need for when students are home during breaks. I’m pleased to join Rep. Flood on this bill to extend this needed care to college students in their times of need.” “Mental health support is a critical lifeline for students, and that need does not stop when they head home for break or the holidays,” said Congressman Nunn. ""Right now, crossing a state line can cut off access to trusted care providers. Our bill removes that barrier so students can stay connected to the care they rely on.” ""This bill is a crucial step toward building a more supportive and responsive mental health system that meets the needs of today’s college student population,” said American College Health Association (ACHA) CEO James Wilkinson. ""We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Flood and his colleagues for introducing this legislation to support the mental health and well-being of college students. The Congressman listened to the challenges our members shared and immediately began researching and drafting a solution. His commitment to ensuring students don't lose access to their mental health services when they leave the state for school breaks or internships is a testament to his dedication to their success."" The “College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act” allows colleges and universities to extend the mental health care that college students use while on campus. Specifically, the legislation allows mental health providers to continue their care and services via three means: Allows mental health providers employed by Institutes of High Education to offer telehealth mental health care services to a student of the same institution- regardless of state lines. Protecting the ability of states to continue participating in existing interstate healthcare compacts. Expanding interstate telehealth care to incoming students who have registered for classes, as well as students who have attended courses within the last three months at the time of seeking care from a mental health provider from the Institutes of Higher Education. A fully copy of the legislation can be accessed by clicking here. Support for the College Students Continuation of Mental Health Care Act The following groups support the legislation: American College Health Association, Association of College and University Housing Officers-International, Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), and National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2774,Bacon Brief: The Week in DC Sept. 8-12,2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Dear friend, DC Meetings Our office was blessed to host some of the most amazing people in our world. Some under tragic circumstances, some of joy, and all there to share their stories. When we met with Ohad Ben Ami and his wife, Raz, we weren’t prepared to hear what they both endured as former hostages of Hamas. But we were given hope as we witnessed their survival. On October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists attacked Ohad and Raz’s home, first taking Ohad and then Raz. Raz was released after 54 days as part of the November 23 ceasefire deal. She spent the next year advocating for the release of her husband. After 491 days, he was released; deeply emaciated and starved. He spoke to us about the tunnels he was kept in with two meals consisting of light soup and a spoonful of cheese, no showers, and no medications. He lost 77 pounds in captivity. We also met with Ilay and Yeela David, whose brother Evvatar is still being held captive. Last February, he was forced to do a cruel Hamas propaganda video, showing him digging his own grave, and looking emaciated. We need to bring him and the other hostages home now. No excuses. Our office was also blessed this week by a visit from the White Family, the Angels in Adoption Honorees for Nebraska’s 2nd District! Eliza White, daughter of Taylor and Kailah, started making homemade pillows with a note of encouragement attached. For each pillow sold, she donates to Boys Town’s Foster Family Services, offering comfort to children entering foster homes. This act of kindness inspired her parents to become licensed Boys Town parents, who embraced their new roles with a shared commitment. That commitment was tested one cold December morning when Kailah returned home with her children and foster son, River. A minor illness quickly escalated into a life-threatening emergency. Thanks to the CPR training provided by Boys Town, Kailah was able to act swiftly and save River’s life. It was a moment that underscored the importance of being prepared—and being united. In April 2024, River officially became part of the White family through adoption, surrounded by a courtroom full of supporters. Just months later, they welcomed Mystic, age four, into their family through adoption as well. Despite busy careers and raising three biological daughters, the Whites continue to foster through Boys Town. They prioritize building lasting connections for the children in their care, involving biological siblings and parents whenever possible. Their daughters are active participants in the family’s foster care journey, embracing each child with love and support. On the Floor This week, I spoke on the floor about my support for the Baltic Security Initiative, which was passed by the House. https://x.com/RepDonBacon/status/1965892731278078196 I also spoke against Marjorie Taylor Greene’s amendment to strip funding for Ukraine’s defense because it is a national security interest. Her Amendment was soundly defeated 60-372-5 https://x.com/RepDonBacon/status/1965844448082014274 Final words for the week This is not the way I would like to end this newsletter, but I can’t ignore the senseless violence that happened this week when Charlie Kirk was murdered for expressing his first amendment rights and professing his faith. Our hearts and prayers are with Charlie’s wife, children, family and friends. He served on the Air Force Academy Board of Visitors with me and will be missed. Our country not only protects, but cherishes our freedom of speech, and political violence terribly undermines ourRepublic. The murderer not only killed Charlie, but he also attacked all of our freedom of speech. The murder suspect is now detained, and I hope he is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-innovation-nebraska-1,Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on “Innovation in Nebraska”,2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will include a panel on “Innovation in Nebraska.” The panel, featuring industry leaders from Maptician, Fiserv, Social Assurance, Exodus, and Pinata will happen at the Congressman’s Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln on September 23, 2025. “Nebraska has earned its reputation as the Silicon Prairie thanks to the innovation, grit, and hard work of our people,” said Congressman Flood. “This panel features incredible leaders in fintech from right here in Nebraska, who are helping to build great job opportunities for the next generation. With less than two weeks to go, I encourage anyone interested in joining the conversation to register for Flyover Fintech today.” AshLea Allberry, a seasoned leader in Information Technology, currently holds the role of Chief Operating Officer at Maptician, Inc. Under her leadership, the company excels in providing innovative space and occupancy management solutions for hybrid workplaces. Most notably, she played a pivotal role in securing significant funding from both local and national investors, showcasing her ability to drive business growth. Her leadership portfolio extends beyond Maptician. At Nanonation, Inc., she excelled as Chief Operating Officer, propelling the digital signage and interactive software firm forward. Her tenure at Xpanxion, LLC highlighted her strategic expertise, as she contributed to rapid organizational growth and even co-founded a subsidiary that continues to thrive as part of the larger enterprise. Beyond her professional accomplishments, AshLea is an advocate for empowering women in business and strengthening community initiatives. She co-founded two organizations that champion these causes and actively serves on the boards of several non-profits. At home, AshLea and her husband, Tate, enjoy family life with their children, Kate, Sophie, and Burke. A proud alumna of the University of Nebraska at Kearney, AshLea holds both Bachelor’s and MBA degrees. She maintains strong ties to the university, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and engagement. Steve Mathison has 30+ years’ of expertise in helping consumers and retailers make and accept payments. He is currently the Head of Payment Optimization at Fiserv, where he is the senior executive responsible for strategically improving a retailer’s payment processes to reduce costs, increase revenue, and enhance the customer experience by focusing on data analysis, technology, and vendor partnerships. His prior roles at Fiserv were as Product Manager and Product Strategist, responsible for the build, launch, and commercialization of a wide variety of payments products, including: IP and Cellular based point of sale systems, Chip Card technology, eCommerce and Checkout solutions, and a variety of Alternate payment methods. He is a Nebraska and Omaha Native, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanized Agriculture and an MBA, both from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Ben Pankonin serves as CEO of Social Assurance–a SaaS company he co-founded in 2011 that today serves over 1,500 financial brands nationwide. A veteran in the banking and financial services space, Ben is especially knowledgeable about the obstacles community banks, credit unions, and financial brands face in authentically engaging their customers and communities in an increasingly digital environment. Ben studied computer science and business administration at Nebraska Wesleyan University. JP Richardson is the CEO of Exodus. In 2015, JP co-founded Exodus to build a beautiful, easy-to-use app that empowers customers to secure, swap, and self-custody their portfolio of crypto. JP led Exodus as the first US company to conduct an SEC-qualified crypto-only public stock offering, making it the only US company to have its common stock tokenized on the blockchain. Today, Exodus has 6.5 million customers worldwide and employs over 200 people who all receive 100% of their salary in bitcoin. Kyle Tut is the cofounder and CEO of Pinata, a Nebraska-based startup powering file infrastructure for thousands of companies across crypto, AI, and beyond. Since launching in 2018, he has raised $21 million to scale Pinata into a critical layer of the blockchain ecosystem. Leading from Nebraska, Kyle shows how fintech and crypto innovation can thrive in the Midwest while serving a global market. Joshua Jordan is the Director of Fintech Alliances at Jack Henry, where he leads the team focused on building strategic partnerships and fostering collaboration between Jack Henry, innovative fintech companies, and community financial institutions. In this role, Joshua is responsible for advancing Jack Henry’s strategic vision within the fintech ecosystem—bridging the gap between technology providers and financial institutions to drive innovation, growth, and long-term value for clients and partners. Joshua is also a frequent speaker and thought leader within the fintech and financial services community, sharing insights on the future of banking, the power of collaboration, and the importance of ecosystem partnerships in driving sustainable growth. Photos of the panelists can be found here. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that House Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Artificial Intelligence Chairman Bryan Steil will address this year’s conference. He has also announced panels on “Bank-Fintech Partnerships,” “AI and Banking,” “Non-Fungible Tokens,” and “Stablecoins.” Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2025 will be announced in the coming days.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2763,Bacon Commends House Passage of FY26 Defense Policy Bill,2025-09-11,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Don Bacon,B001298,bacon.house.gov,bacon,https://bacon.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Bacon Commends House Passage of FY26 Defense Policy Bill Washington – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Cyber, Information Technology and Innovation Subcommittee, joined his House colleagues in voting for H.R. 3838, the Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. The bill passed the House of Representatives with a bipartisan majority of 231 to 196. The annual legislation, which contains multiple amendments and provisions authored by Rep. Bacon, authorizes defense spending and sets the policy and priorities for the Armed Forces. “For the 65th consecutive year, the House of Representatives has passed bipartisan legislation that increases our national security and takes care of our servicemembers and their families,” said Rep. Bacon. “In particular, this year’s Defense Authorization reforms the acquisition process, delivering much-needed capabilities to our warfighters to meet the next generation of threats. I commend Speaker Johnson, Chairman Rogers, and my colleagues from both sides of the aisle on this significant legislative achievement.” Highlights from the FY 2026 bill include: Sets major reforms to the defense acquisition system to speed development and fielding of modern technologies while reducing bureaucracy Authorizes $142.6 billion for research, development, testing, and evaluation to field essential technologies like hypersonics, AI, and autonomous vehicles Preserves U.S. force posture in Europe and authorizes additional security assistance to the Baltic Nations and Ukraine Fully funds modernization of the U.S strategic nuclear deterrent as well as scientific capabilities and nuclear command, control, and communications architectures Boots compensation for our servicemembers, reforms military food programs, and upgrades servicemember housing including $1.4 billion for new construction In addition, the House defense bill contains numerous legislative proposals sponsored by Rep. Bacon, including: Authorization of support to Ukraine and the Baltic Nations of Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia to counter Russian aggression Directs the Secretary of Defense to prepare an implementation plan to establish a Joint Task Force Cyber for the Indo-Pacific area of operations Directs the Secretary of the Air Force to provide an acquisition and fielding strategy for the F-47 advanced fighter aircraft program Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide an independent assessment of toxic exposure in the Air Force ICBM missileer community Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide an implementation plan to reform Department of Defense (DoD) casualty assistance programs Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network Directs significant security upgrades to DoD mobile telecommunications Directs the major defense acquisitions programs to prepare digital manufacturing transition plans for critical components Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish the Center for Strategic Deterrence and WMD Studies at the National Defense University Directs the Secretary of Defense to improve cancer detection and prevention measures for DoD firefighters Directs updates on the U.S. Space Force Satellite Control Network When compiled, the text of H.R. 3838 can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-statement-death-charlie-kirk,Smith Statement on Death of Charlie Kirk,2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Adrian Smith,S001172,adriansmith.house.gov,adriansmith,https://adriansmith.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after it was reported Charlie Kirk, Founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was killed while speaking at Utah Valley University. ""The loss of Charlie Kirk marks a tragic day for American politics. Charlie was a patriot who lived his conservative values by championing free speech for all. Regardless of viewpoint, political violence is never acceptable. My prayers are with his wife and young children. May the investigation to bring his killer to justice be swift and successful."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-flood-announces-flyover-fintech-panel-stablecoins,Congressman Flood Announces Flyover Fintech Panel on “Stablecoins”,2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLN, NEBRASKA – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Flyover Fintech will include a panel on “Stablecoins.” The panel, featuring industry leaders from Circle, PayPal, and Telcoin will happen at the Congressman’s Flyover Fintech Conference in Lincoln on September 23, 2025. “As our digital economy continues to grow, stablecoins will serve as the basis of decentralized digital currency that people around the world use to do business,” said Congressman Flood. “The experts on this panel will deliver key insights about how stablecoins have developed and how public policy is shaping their future. With less than two weeks to go, I encourage anyone interested in joining the conversation to register for Flyover Fintech today.” Francesco Castella is a Senior Manager on the Global Policy and Government Relations team at Circle, where he helps shape and execute the company’s global public policy strategy. Prior to joining Circle, he served as a Senior Policy Advisor in the U.S. Senate for Sen. Ted Budd, where he focused on financial services, banking, tax, housing, small business, and trade. He also previously worked in the U.S. House of Representatives on the Financial Services Committee, serving under Chairmen Jeb Hensarling and Patrick McHenry. In that role, he contributed to legislative and oversight efforts on capital markets, fintech, monetary policy, and regulatory reform. Amy Kim leads PayPal's global crypto policy and government engagement. Previously, she served as General Counsel and Chief Policy Officer for a crypto trade group, and before that as counsel at a law firm advising financial services firms and others on cross border compliance programs in AML, sanctions, and money transmission obligations. Paul Neuner is the founder and CEO of Telcoin, a digital asset wallet company applying to establish what would be the first Digital Asset Depository Institution chartered by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance under the Nebraska Financial Innovation Act. Before Telcoin, he was an entrepreneur in cybersecurity and telecom fraud management, including as founder and CEO of Mobius Wireless Solutions, which built revenue assurance and fraud management solutions for mobile network operators globally. Paul also previously founded the Internet application development department of Ernst & Young Technologies. Photos of the panelists can be found here. Flyover Fintech conferences feature a wide variety of speakers, ranging from members of the House Financial Services Committee to leading voices in the fintech industry. Congressman Flood has previously announced that House Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Artificial Intelligence Chairman Bryan Steil will address this year’s conference. He has also announced panels on “Bank-Fintech Partnerships,” “AI and Banking,” and “Non-Fungible Tokens.” Additional speakers and panelists for Flyover Fintech 2025 will be announced in the coming days.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-floods-statement-charlie-kirks-death,Congressman Flood’s Statement on Charlie Kirk’s Death,2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-Nebraska) issued a statement following news that conservative figure Charlie Kirk had passed away after being shot at an event in Utah. “From the White House to college campuses, Charlie Kirk used his platform to talk about conservative principles, share his faith in Jesus, and to connect the next generation of Americans to the Republican Party. Mandi and I are praying for his wife and kids and urge all Americans to work towards bringing peace to our divided country. We must bring an end to the political violence that seems to be growing in our country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-flood-cleaver-introduce-streamlining-manufactured-housing,Congressmen Flood & Cleaver Introduce the Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act,2025-09-10,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,NE,Mike Flood,F000474,flood.house.gov,flood,https://flood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood (R-Nebraska) and Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Missouri) introduced the “Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act.” This legislation clarifies that only the U.S. Housing and Urban Development agency has authority to establish energy efficiency and safety standards for manufactured housing. “America has been grappling with a housing crisis and cutting red tape is one of the key tools to helping home builders create more housing,” said Rep. Flood. “Manufactured homes have historically been built to a HUD code, and in order to make manufactured homes a cost-effective option for consumers we must ensure that HUD has primary authority over all manufactured housing standards. Thank you to my colleague Rep. Cleaver for helping to lead this effort, and I look forward to working together to move this legislation through our committee and the full House.” “American families are drowning under a national housing affordability crisis that is limiting economic opportunity and sowing pessimism in the future,” said Rep. Cleaver. “By clarifying HUD’s important role in maintaining home energy efficiency standards, we will ensure that federal experts in housing are the ones overseeing quality projects that enable the construction of manufactured housing nationwide. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Chairman Flood as we seek to lower housing costs by streamlining the regulation of quality, affordable homes in communities that need them most.” “For more than 50 years, our industry has partnered with HUD to help millions of Americans achieve the dream of homeownership. The Streamlining Manufactured Housing Standards Act reaffirms HUD’s sole authority over our construction standards, preserving the integrity of this long-standing partnership. Manufactured housing is the only form of housing built to a federal construction code, and we do it at scale—delivering quality homes across the country at attainable prices. We commend Chairman Flood and Ranking Member Cleaver for their bipartisan leadership in protecting the regulatory efficiency that is central to this partnership. Regulatory efficiency, combined with factory-built efficiency, is the formula that makes manufactured housing the most affordable quality homeownership option available. This bill preserves the regulatory side of that equation and strengthens a vital housing solution for families nationwide,” said Lesli Gooch, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of the Manufactured Housing Institute. Rep. Flood is a member of the Housing Financial Services Committee and the chair of the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee. He also serves as the Chair of the Republican Main Street Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z