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://clarke.house.gov/clarke-leads-letter-to-revlon-demanding-answers-following-findings-of-dangerous-contaminants-in-cosmetics/,CLARKE LEADS LETTER TO REVLON DEMANDING ANSWERS FOLLOWING FINDINGS OF DANGEROUS CONTAMINANTS IN COSMETICS,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 28, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) led a letter signed by nine Members of Congress to CEO of Revlon Group Holdings LLC, Michelle Peluso, following the FDA’s recent findings that the cosmetics company failed to adequately test products for the presence of contaminants – including cancer-causing chemicals and mold – putting the health of its customers at risk, particularly its Black customers who are disproportionately represented in the beauty and personal care market. “Black consumers, specifically women and girls, occupy a significant space within the overall U.S. beauty landscape. In 2026, beauty spending among Black consumers reached $16.2 billion, representing a 9 percent increase from the previous year. Given their prevalence in your customer base, it is our serious concern that Black women and girls would be disproportionately exposed to carcinogenic chemicals in contaminated beauty products,” wrote the Members. “Products that pose a risk to consumers have no place in our markets. Black women and girls should be able to use beauty and personal care products, including over-the-counter (OTC) drug products, without worrying about potential exposure to harmful chemicals.” The letter was signed by: Representatives Clarke, Carson, Crockett, DeLauro, Grijalva, Holmes Norton, Thanedar, Tlaib, and Wilson (FL). Full text of the letter can be found HERE. ###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/goldman-announces-he-secured-15464700-new-york-city-public-housing-authority,"Goldman Announces He Secured $15,464,700 for New York City Public Housing Authority",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New York, N.Y. – Today, U.S. Representative Dan Goldman (NY-10) announced that he has secured $15,464,700 for the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) through the Community Funding Project award program. This funding will go towards improving the standard of safety, security and quality of living at New York City Public Housing developments. This funding will advance several key goals to improve quality of life in public housing developments across New York's 10th Congressional District. Working alongside Senator Schumer, Congressman Goldman secured $5 million to remediate mold conditions at Red Hook East in Brooklyn and won $1.5 million to restore the community center at the Jacob Riis Houses in partnership with Vision Urbana. Goldman also secured grants to upgrade safety infrastructure at eight NYCHA developments, funding improvements to fire safety technology, security cameras, elevator upgrades and lighting systems. Goldman secured $39,344,968 for 49 community projects in NY-10 across the three appropriations processes during his time in office. Representative Goldman was joined by NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt at the press conference. ""From the moment I was elected to Congress, representing the historically underserved working-class neighborhoods in my district has been my top priority,"" said Congressman Dan Goldman. ""I am proud to announce that my office has secured more than $15.4 million in federal grants for NYCHA residents at 11 different developments. Public housing should be safe and livable, and I'm proud to have worked alongside so many incredible community leaders to make that a reality. A special thank you is in order for NYCHA, as well, whose leaders have worked with me to pass these projects into law. I am proud to share their commitment to a better future for their residents.” ""Every New Yorker deserves a safe, healthy, and dignified home, and this investment will help to make meaningful improvements in the quality of life for thousands of NYCHA residents,"" said NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt. ""From making safety and security upgrades to restoring vital community spaces, these projects reflect the kinds of investments that make a significant difference in residents' everyday lives. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Goldman for his ongoing partnership and unwavering commitment to NYCHA residents."" Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal said: ""NYCHA's capital needs have never been greater. I’m deeply grateful to Congressman Dan Goldman for his advocacy in Washington on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Manhattanites who call NYCHA home. This $15.4M investment, which includes fire safety upgrades, security camera installations, and refurbished community centers, will make a real difference in the lives of thousands of Manhattanites who depend on NYCHA for safe, affordable housing. I look forward to working with my elected colleagues and NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt to continue advocating for the needs of Manhattanites living in NYCHA units.” ""On behalf of the Board of Directors of Vision Urbana, Inc., I extend our profound gratitude to Congressman Dan Goldman for securing this historic $1.5 million federal investment to transform the former Virginia Day Care Center at the NYCHA Jacob Riis development into a Community Resiliency Center,"" said Rev. Dr. Marcos Rivera, Chairperson of Vision Urbana. ""This is a NYCHA development recovering from the effects of Superstorm Sandy making this investment more than just a renovation of a center—it is an investment in the resiliency of a community facility designed for families and older adults who have called Jacob Riis their home for generations.” ""Vision Urbana now has an executed agreement with HUD providing us a critical foundation from which to develop this facility into a fully functional resource hub that will continue beyond any future superstorm Sandy for NYCHA residents at Jacob Riis and throughout the Lower East Side"", said Eric Diaz, Executive Director of Vision Urbana. ""Community stakeholder sessions have started this Summer with support from sister agencies and the tenants themselves to ensure this facility becomes a resilient center Jacob Riis himself would have been proud to report as a prime example of social infrastructure within NYC public housing."" The projects for which he’s won funding are: Fiscal Year 2024 Jacob Riis / Vision Urbana Community Center - $1,500,000 Fiscal Year 2026 Red Hook East Building Line Initiative - $5,000,000 Red Hook Community Center Elevator Upgrades - $1,100,000 Gowanus Fire Upgrades - $850,000 Baruch Fire Upgrades - $850,000 LES Group V Windows - $850,000 First Houses Cameras - $1,031,000 Wyckoff Gardens Cameras - $1,039,000 Fiscal Year 2027 - (Yet to be signed into law) LaGuardia Fire Upgrades - $850,000 Wald Fire Upgrades- $850,000 Vladeck Cameras- $772,700 Baruch Addition Lighting- $772,000 ###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/28/leader-jeffries-on-squawk-box-people-are-drowning-in-this-failed-republican-economy/,LEADER JEFFRIES ON SQUAWK BOX: “PEOPLE ARE DROWNING IN THIS FAILED REPUBLICAN ECONOMY”,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNBC’s Squawk Box, where he made clear that unlike Donald Trump and Republicans, House Democrats are committed to fiscally responsible behavior in the fight for an affordable America. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Welcome back to Squawk Box. We are just five weeks away now from the midterm elections. Joining us right now is House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Good morning to you. Really wanted to spend some time thinking about what you think the Democratic agenda would be if you do win the House and how things change or shift under those circumstances. LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, good morning, great to be with you. Our focus right now, of course, will be over the next 36 days making our case to the American people that we are committed to fighting for an affordable America. The cost of living in this country is way too high. Life is way too expensive. Donald Trump and Republicans promised to lower the high cost of living on day one. That’s what they said. Of course, costs haven’t gone down, costs have gone up. So we’re committed to driving down the high cost of groceries, driving down the high cost of gas, driving down the high cost of housing and also fighting to make healthcare affordable for every single American. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader, how much of the next two years do you think, if you’re to win in the House, would be a series of hearings effectively about Trump, about Trump’s family, about business executives, about giving to ballrooms and all of that? LEADER JEFFRIES: We’re committed to an affordability agenda. As I travel the country, speak to people whether that’s in urban America, rural parts of America, the heartland of America, small-town America or Black and Brown communities throughout America, the one thing that is clear is that people are struggling. They are drowning in this failed Republican economy.They’re working hard, they’re playing by the rules, but they cannot thrive and can barely survive. It’s an unacceptable situation. And so, when we say we’re focused on affordability, we mean it. At the same period of time, we have seen unprecedented corruption unleashed on the American people. And if you have folks who are so focused on enriching themselves, their family members, their friends or their donors, then it means they’re not focused on making life more affordable for the American people. And we have a responsibility to visit the type of accountability that is consistent with the House as a separate and co-equal branch of government. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: The reason, Leader, I raised this question is because there is a question about just how much of this will be about recrimination versus affordability, and where the energy in the party comes from right now. I found—I don’t know if you agree with this, you’re talking about affordability now. One of the things that’s been very interesting about watching some of the folks, maybe on the far left, considered sort of the DSA world is they rarely actually talk about Trump or talk about Republicans per se or the family or all of these things. They almost always simply talk about affordability or other kinds of sort of forward-looking issues. How do you think about that versus this accountability issue? Because I know that there are others in the Democratic Party that have a real, you know, thirst for both accountability—maybe it’s a blood, but they want something. LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, in the new Congress, there are going to be progressives, there are going to be New Dems, moderate Democrats, centrist Democrats, Blue Dogs, more socially conservative Democrats. But what does unite everyone is this commitment to lowering the high cost of living, to making sure that we can actually bring the American dream back to life for people all across this country. When it comes to the accountability aspect of what needs to happen, cleaning up the rampant corruption that exists in Washington, D.C., wherever that may be, whether that’s the Congress, the Supreme Court or certainly with the Trump cartel, our view is that we’re going to follow the facts, apply the law, be guided by the Constitution and then let the chips fall where they may on behalf of the American people. We have a responsibility, of course, as a Congress, to serve as a check and balance on an out-of-control executive branch. That’s not partisan, that’s patriotic. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Where do you think AI and the debate around data centers, but increasingly—the conversation we were just having with Jensen Huang around regulation around some of these models, agentic models, getting out of sandboxes and the like—how much of that do you think is going to become a political football, not just in the midterms, but over the next two years? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, Congress, pursuant to the Constitution, has a responsibility to provide for the common defense of the American people and protect the general welfare of the American people. So when it comes to AI safety, it certainly seems to me that we need to actually lean in boldly and responsibly now. That’s why it was so extraordinary that, in light of pleas coming from people within the artificial intelligence industry itself that Congress needs to act, that Speaker Johnson, Republicans decided to get out of town and cancel votes for two weeks so they could save themselves on the campaign trail, as opposed to trying to save the American people from pending harm if this thing gets out of control with respect to AI safety. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader, I want to go back to the affordability issue because one of the big issues—we’re watching the price of treasuries right now, which is also affecting mortgages and the like. One of the things that clearly, at least, the bond investor community is demanding, is that we get our fiscal house in order. And my question to you is whether you think Democrats have any plan to spend less money rather than more. LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, here’s the thing. The American people have made clear throughout the last several months that they trust Democrats on the economy, trust us on fighting inflation, trust us on lowering the high cost of living, trust us on ending this reckless war of choice in Iran, trust us on immigration and trust us on the deficit because what they’ve seen from Republicans is fiscally irresponsible behavior. They ripped away, these Republicans, Medicaid from 14 million Americans in order to provide massive tax breaks to their billionaire donors and then skyrocket the debt and the deficit by trillions of dollars. You’re not going to see that type of fiscally irresponsible behavior from Democrats. We’re going to put the American people first. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Do you see or could you imagine over the next two years any kind of real fiscal responsibility, also Democrats and Republicans coming together to try to deal with this budget? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I don’t want to get out ahead of what we’ll talk about as Democrats in the new Congress, but what is clear is that we can’t continue down this unsustainable path that Republicans have brought us along. I mean, when you think about a $40 trillion debt, 25% of that debt has basically been accumulated during the approximately six years that Donald Trump is President. That’s extraordinary. It’s unacceptable. It’s hurting us. And, certainly, we’ve got to find a path forward to change course from what Republicans have done— ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader, I think people want to understand what that path looks like. Obviously, a lot of Democrats have talked about taxes. They’ve talked about wealth taxes, raising money on one end. But I’m asking, is there a balanced approach where, and maybe it includes tax increases, but is there any effort in your mind, are there things that you could point to today that you can say to yourself, you know, we’ve got to cut this, it’s the only way? LEADER JEFFRIES: What I’m saying, and of course, as Democrats, we’ve repeatedly made clear that we actually are authentically interested in dealing with waste, fraud or abuse where it exists. And we certainly have seen an unprecedented amount of waste, fraud, abuse and corruption unleashed on the American people by Donald Trump and the Trump cartel. But our focus has to be on lowering the high cost of living. That is what the American people want us to address decisively. Republicans have failed in that regard. Democrats will not. ANDREW ROSS SORKIN: Leader Jeffries, we’re going to leave the conversation there. We appreciate it. Good to see you. LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you. Full interview can be watched here. ###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-nick-langworthy-announces-3-million-federal-investment-alfred,Congressman Nick Langworthy Announces $3 Million Federal Investment to Alfred State College for Workforce Development,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC--September 28th… Congressman Nick Langworthy today announced nearly $3 million in federal funding for Alfred State College to modernize skilled-trades education, expand access to advanced technology and prepare students for in-demand careers across the region. The investments include a $150,000 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) award for CNC machining enhancements and a $3 million ($1,797,430 in the first year) Department of Education Title III grant to expand access to skilled trades and next-generation technology. Congressman Langworthy, who has made strengthening the skilled trades industry a top priority during his time in Congress said, “Alfred State has a long history of preparing students for good-paying careers in the skilled trades industry, and these investments will make sure that students have access to the tools and technology they need to compete in the modern workforce. We are working hard at the federal level to revive American manufacturing and strengthen domestic supply chains but if we are going to be successful, we need to make sure the next generation of workers is trained for these jobs. Whether it’s a CNC machine, advanced manufacturing technology or artificial intelligence, our students will be able to gain the skills and experience necessary to hit the ground running.” AWARD OVERVIEWS: ARC AWARD: $150,000 for CNC Machining Enhancements for Trades Education This investment will modernize CNC equipment at Alfred State College, giving approximately 180 students hands-on training with technology used in today’s manufacturing industry. By upgrading training facilities on the Alfred and Wellsville campuses, the Shaping Manufacturing Project will help prepare the next generation of American manufacturing workers with practical skills aligned to in-demand careers in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and electronics. The project is expected to help at least 150 students’ complete courses, earn credentials, graduate, and enter the workforce equipped to contribute to America’s advanced manufacturing future. Department of Education Title III: $3 million to increase access to skilled trades and next generation technology Alfred State College has been awarded $1,797,430 for this year, and a total of 3 million over 5 years, will strengthen skilled-trades education by investing in modern equipment, advanced technology, and updating to industry-standard laboratories to prepare students for the next generation of American manufacturing and construction. The initiative will create a smart campus with connected classrooms, upgraded technology infrastructure, AI-integrated curriculum, and opportunities for students to learn directly from industry leaders across the country. By combining hands-on training with expanded tutoring, coaching, financial literacy, and access to tools and technology, the grant will help more students successfully complete their programs and enter the workforce with the skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving American economy.",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-nick-langworthy-proudly-announces-218000-federal-assistance-fire,"Congressman Nick Langworthy Proudly Announces $218,000 in Federal Assistance for Fire Departments in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced $218,844 in federal moneys headed to 3 fire departments in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties through the FEMA AFG Grant Program. Congressman Langworthy was proud to support the funding of this important program and has long been a vocal advocate in favor of federal investment in our local first responders. In June this year, Congressman Langworthy hosted FEMA AFT for a virtual grant writing seminar to make applying easier for our local departments. “Our firefighters are true heroes, and I am proud to announce that $218,844 is on its way to upgrade the safety equipment and technology that keeps our communities safe,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “This direct federal investment will give our firefighters critical equipment upgrades including turn out gear, air packs, or other critical equipment that means the world in the heat of crisis. When our firefighters answer the call, I want them to have the support they deserve to do the job safely. As I meet with firefighters across the district, I hear repeatedly how important congressional support for this is, and I am proud to be a loud advocate.” According to FEMA, the primary goal of these grants is to enhance the safety and effectiveness of first responders while also improving their ability to respond to emergencies and disasters. They aim to address the evolving needs of first responders, from advanced equipment acquisition and updating aging vehicles to safety improvement and training programs. Details on the grants are below: CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY KIANTONE INDEPENDENT FIRE DEPARTMENT​​ $50,988 SINCLAIRVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE CO. NO. 1, INC. $97,142 CATTARAUGUS COUNTY CITY OF OLEAN ​​​​​​$70,714",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6556,Lawler Urges Administration to Strengthen Head Start in New Rule,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/28/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) submitted a public comment on the Administration for Children and Families’ (ACF) Proposed Rule titled “Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Program, Inc.” In this letter, he strongly urged the Administration to revise the proposal to ensure the sustainability, financial security, and success of Head Start programs nationwide. On August 7, 2026, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and ACF proposed sweeping new regulations that would undermine and weaken Head Start, one of our most substantial and successful government programs. This proposal would require English-only education, lower the cap on federal funding for administrative expenses, lower the quality of the program’s performance standards, remove training requirements for staff, adjust the required staff-to-child ratios, and remove regulations governing parent committees. “[T]he Proposed Rule, as currently written, would weaken the Head Start program as a whole and result in the reduction of quality services offered to low-income children and families in New York and across the country. We can reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and be responsible stewards of federal dollars without compromising sound care for children. Health and safety should not be where we seek savings or efficiencies,” wrote the lawmaker. While some of the proposed changes include waiver provisions to provide exceptions to impacted programs or allow for programs to continue following prior guidance without enforcement or include waiver provisions to provide exceptions to impacted programs, that is not enough. Oversight and community investment often vary, and they often do not meet the high-quality standards required in existing federal regulation. Rep. Lawler has been a longtime partner with and advocate for Head Start of Rockland, Inc. Over the last 62 years, this program has provided high-quality services to tens of thousands of children across the county. He has advocated for increased funding to Head Start programs and supported additional funding opportunities for Head Start of Rockland specifically. The full letter can be found HERE. Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs. ###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/one-month-left-congressman-pat-ryan-invites-hudson-valley-middle-and-high,ONE MONTH LEFT! CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN INVITES HUDSON VALLEY MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO ENTER 2026 CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Patrick Ryan,R000579,patryan.house.gov,patryan,https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The Congressional App Challenge encourages tech innovation among middle and high school students as they compete for a chance to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol Hudson Valley middle and high school students are encouraged to submit by October 26, 2026; more information on submission can be found on Congressman Ryan’s website Last year’s winner, “Hudson Connect,” was designed by New Windsor 11th grader Aarna Patel; the app is a community resource navigation tool designed to help residents quickly find local services and programs across New York’s 18th Congressional District WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Pat Ryan is encouraging Hudson Valley middle and high school students to participate in the 2026 Congressional App Challenge. The Congressional App Challenge is an annual nationwide competition that encourages U.S. middle and high school students in each congressional district to learn coding and develop their own software applications, fostering STEM education and engagement with their local Representative. This challenge is open to middle and high school students; students must either attend school or reside in NY-18. Submissions are due October 26, 2026; the portal can be found on Congressman Ryan’s website. “I look forward to this every year. The Congressional App Challenge gives young people across the Hudson Valley a chance to build and demonstrate their entrepreneurial spirit for the benefit of the community we love,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “I am consistently so impressed with what our students submit – it truly gives me hope for the next generation of innovators growing up right here in the Hudson Valley. There’s one month left to submit, and I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with!” “Participating in the Congressional App Challenge and attending the House of Code has been an incredible honor. I created Hudson Connect to help people find local and accessible resources and to bring the community closer together,” said Aarna Patel, New Windsor, 2025 winner. “Having the app recognized on a national stage was both exciting and deeply meaningful. Connecting with other student innovators and speaking with Congressman Ryan and his team reinforced how powerful technology can be in supporting and uplifting a community. The support from Congressman Ryan’s team throughout the process made the experience even better and truly memorable.” The Congressional App Challenge is a competition organized by Members of Congress across the country for middle school and high school students to create their own software applications and gain experience with computer coding. Submissions are due by October 26, 2026; more information and submission instructions can be found on Congressman Ryan’s website. ###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/26/leader-jeffries-on-cnn-the-american-people-are-disgusted-with-the-performance-of-donald-trump-and-republicans/,LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: “THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE DISGUSTED WITH THE PERFORMANCE OF DONALD TRUMP AND REPUBLICANS”,2026-09-26,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN This Morning Weekend, where he made clear that House Democrats are relentlessly focused on fighting for an affordable America. MANU RAJU: House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who wants to be the next Speaker of the House, he is joining me live now to talk about the midterm elections 38 days away. Mr. Jeffries, good morning to you and thanks for being here. As you know, Cook Political Report is now predicting that Democrats will take the House in November. You’ve actually been saying that for months, making that prediction. So right now, what are you exactly predicting? Are you—do you anticipate a Democratic wave or a narrow victory? LEADER JEFFRIES: We’re going to work as hard as we can to get to 218, and then win as many seats on top of that as possible because we’re focused on fighting for an affordable America. Life is way too expensive, Manu, here in the United States of America. There are too many people, millions of folks, working hard, playing by the rules, can’t thrive and can barely survive. The Republican economic policies have been a disaster. They promised to lower costs on day one, costs haven’t gone down, they’ve gone up. Democrats are determined to do something about that. MANU RAJU: Mr. Leader, are you worried about the amount of GOP spending that is coming in late from Trump’s outside organization and GOP outside groups? They’re really bombarding the airwaves and they’re dwarfing Democrats by nearly $200 million in House and Senate races. How concerned are you about that? LEADER JEFFRIES: We always understood that MAGA Republicans were going to try to unload as much of their special interest money as possible. This is part of the problem with why Republicans have failed. They’re not interested in promoting the public interest. They haven’t done a damn thing to make life more affordable for the American people. Instead, they spend all their time raising money from their MAGA big donors, who they rewarded with a massive tax break in the One Big Ugly Bill, while at the same time ripping Medicaid, healthcare and nutritional assistance away from the American people. We’re going to stay focused, continue to communicate our message. We know the most important issues in this election are not going to be about MAGA money. It’s going to be about the economy, the high cost of living and combating inflation, which Donald Trump and Republican economic policies have dramatically worsened in this country. MANU RAJU: Mr. Leader, let’s talk about the generic ballot. The CNN poll from this week has Democrats with an eight-point advantage when voters are asked which party should control Congress. But in 2018, that’s when Democrats had picked up 41 seats, at this time, Democrats had a 12-point advantage in the generic ballot. Now, given how bad the environment is for Republicans, why aren’t Democrats holding an even bigger advantage now? LEADER JEFFRIES: The plus-eight advantage is incredibly strong, and we’re going to continue to run through the finish line. And remember, Manu, in 2018 we needed to flip 24 seats. We were at 194, we needed to get to 218. Right now we’re at 215. It’s one of the reasons why Republicans are running scared all across the country because we only need to flip a handful of seats to take back control of the majority, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do at minimum. MANU RAJU: But does the fact that your advantage isn’t even higher have anything to do with your own approval ratings, Mr. Leader? In that same poll, the approval of Democratic leaders is abysmal. It stands at 26%. And that is just two points better than GOP leaders. So why are the approval ratings of Democratic leaders still so low? LEADER JEFFRIES: We’re not running a popularity contest. We’re working hard to run Republicans out of power because they’ve done so much damage to the American people. And the American people clearly deserve better. They clearly deserve a party—House and Senate Democrats—which are going to focus on making life better for the American people, Manu. Those are the stakes at this moment. MANU RAJU: But do you think the public is not sold yet on Democrats leading Congress? LEADER JEFFRIES: I think that we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it. Right now, we have to accomplish the mission. And the mission is to make sure that we take back control of the House, which we’ve maintained we were on track to do now for months. In fact, we were very confident about our ability to change direction in January 2025 and began to say so publicly. And we’ve had two goals: push back against the Republican extremism that has been unleashed on the American people and chart a better course forward, so that the American people actually can live a comfortable life, an affordable life and a good life. MANU RAJU: I want to drill down to one critical district that you know very well: New York’s 17th congressional district. That’s where the incumbent Republican Mike Lawler—one of the top Democratic targets in the country—he’s one of three Republicans who sit in districts that Kamala Harris won last cycle. You need to flip that seat. And just last week, a member of your Caucus, Jared Golden, Democrat of Maine, issued an endorsement of Lawler. Are you okay with that? LEADER JEFFRIES: I issued a statement making clear that I thought the endorsement effort by Mike Lawler was a desperate attempt to head off what’s coming on November 3, which is that Cait Conley, a decorated combat veteran, a patriotic hero, is about to flip that seat. In fact, I was with Cait last evening. I’ll be spending some time with her in the district at some point soon. We’re all in to make sure that she wins. Mike Lawler is an unmitigated fraud. He voted to cut Medicaid of his own constituents. He’s consistently voted to rubber-stamp Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice in Iran, which has skyrocketed gas prices— MANU RAJU: What about the fact that you have a member of your Caucus endorsing him? LEADER JEFFRIES: You have to talk to Jared Golden about that. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, House Democrats, leadership, the members of the New York congressional delegation across the ideological spectrum—we all stand behind Cait Conley. And mark my words, she’s going to win. MANU RAJU: Okay, I want to ask you about something many people saw last night when watching the Northwestern-Indiana college football game. There’s a taxpayer-funded ad from the White House. Watch this. RECORDING OF AD: And nothing was going to stop him from fighting so hard for the country he loves. MANU RAJU: Mr. Leader, the administration says that these are public service announcements with the goal of educating Americans and to ensure they are unapologetically patriotic. Any issue with that? LEADER JEFFRIES: These aren’t public service announcements. These are ads designed to elevate Donald Trump because he has record-low approval ratings across the board. Certainly, the American people are disgusted with the performance of Donald Trump and Republicans in the House, who are nothing more than reckless rubber stamps for his extreme agenda. And this is another example of how taxpayer dollars are being misused by the Trump cartel to try to elevate themselves or enrich themselves, their family members, their friends and their donors, as opposed to actually doing what Democrats will be focused on, which is spending taxpayer dollars to make life more affordable for hardworking American taxpayers. MANU RAJU: Trump is also saying that he wants this election to be about him. He said, ‘Vote like I’m on the ballot.’ He is suggesting he could be in a few dozen battleground districts as well. Do you want Trump on the campaign trail? LEADER JEFFRIES: Yes. And the reality is, Donald Trump is effectively on the ballot. His failed economic policies are on the ballot. The Trump Tariffs, which have increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year, on the ballot. His One Big Ugly Bill that ripped Medicaid away from about 14 million Americans—that’s on the ballot. The Epstein cover-up is on the ballot. The failure of this administration to actually keep its promise not to start wars in the Middle East, but to stop them, is on the ballot because they turned around and did the exact opposite with the reckless war of choice in Iran. So certainly, Republican policies are on the ballot. The Democratic vision to make life more affordable for the American people, that’s on the ballot as well. MANU RAJU: I do want to ask you about the Wall Street Journal. It’s reporting that President Trump has told aides he expects to resume bombing Iran after the midterm election. So if you become Speaker, will you vow to end the Iran war? LEADER JEFFRIES: Absolutely. In fact, we’ve made that clear. We’ve now successfully on the House Floor passed three different War Powers Resolutions to end this reckless and costly war of choice in Iran. That’s in the best interest of the American people— MANU RAJU: You would cut off all funding? LEADER JEFFRIES: Listen, we’ll deal with the appropriations process when we deal with the appropriations process. Right now, the mechanism that is in front of us will be to aggressively move War Powers Resolutions until we end this war in the best interest of the American people. MANU RAJU: Alright, we’re going to have to leave it there. Leader Hakeem Jeffries, thank you so much for joining me this morning. Really appreciate it. LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you, Manu. Full interview can be watched here. ###",1,2026-09-27T10:23:37Z,2026-09-27T10:25:08Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-nick-langworthy-proudly-announces-nearly-200000-federal-assistance,"Congressman Nick Langworthy Proudly Announces Nearly $200,000 in Federal Assistance to Fire Fighters in Erie County",2026-09-26,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 26th...Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced $198,945 in federal moneys headed to 3 fire departments across Erie County through the FEMA AFG Grant Program. Congressman Langworthy was proud to support the funding of this important program and has long been a vocal advocate in favor of federal investment in our local first responders. In June this year, Congressman Langworthy hosted FEMA AFT for a virtual grant writing seminar to make applying easier for our local departments. “Our firefighters are true heroes, and I am proud to announce that $198,945 is on its way to upgrade the safety equipment and technology that keeps our communities safe,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “This direct federal investment will afford first responders with upgraded new radios, turnout gear, air packs, or other critical equipment that means the world in the heat of crisis. When our firefighters answer the call, I want them to have the support they deserve to do the job safely. As I meet with firefighters across the district, I hear repeatedly how meaningful this funding pipeline is to their department, and I am proud to continue the fight to fund this critical grant program."" According to FEMA, the primary goal of these grants is to enhance the safety and effectiveness of first responders while also improving their ability to respond to emergencies and disasters. They aim to address the evolving needs of first responders, from advanced equipment acquisition and updating aging vehicles to safety improvement and training programs. Organization Award Amount ERIE COUNTY",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-nick-langworthy-proudly-announces-nearly-400000-federal-assistance,"Congressman Nick Langworthy Proudly Announces Nearly $400,000 in Federal Assistance to Fire Fighters in Stueben, Chemung, and Tioga Counties",2026-09-26,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 26th...Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced $382,298 in federal moneys headed to 4 fire departments across Stueben, Chemung and Tioga County through the FEMA AFG Grant Program. Congressman Langworthy was proud to support the funding of this important program and has long been a vocal advocate in favor of federal investment in our local first responders. In June this year, Congressman Langworthy hosted FEMA AFT for a virtual grant writing seminar to make applying easier for our local departments. “Our firefighters are true heroes, and I am proud to announce that $382,298 bound for the Southern Tier to invest in critical equipment to our community safe,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “This direct federal investment will take pressure off local taxpayers, and give first responders access to new radios, turnout gear, air packs, or other vital equipment that means the world in the heat of crisis. When our firefighters answer the call, I want them to have the support they deserve to do the job safely. As I meet with firefighters across the district, I hear repeatedly how impactful this funding pipeline is to their department, and I am proud to continue the fight to fund this critical grant program in Congress.” According to FEMA, the primary goal of these grants is to enhance the safety and effectiveness of first responders while also improving their ability to respond to emergencies and disasters. They aim to address the evolving needs of first responders, from advanced equipment acquisition and updating aging vehicles to safety improvement and training programs. Organization Award Amount STEUBEN COUNTY CITY OF HORNELL $128,403 VILLAGE OF SAVONA $167,619 CHEMUNG COUNTY ERIN FIRE DISTRICT $32,680 TIOGA COUNTY",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6520,Lawler Introduces Legislation to Update Tax Code for Widows and Widowers,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/25/26… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Tax Relief for Surviving Spouses Act, legislation that would update the federal tax code so widows or widowers can claim surviving spouse status for up to two years after their spouse’s death, regardless of whether they have a dependent child. Under Internal Revenue Code Section 2(a), only surviving‑spouse filing status requires that the widow or widower have a dependent child, which does not always reflect in modern household structures. Many married couples have no children, adult children, or children who are no longer dependents, yet the financial disruption of losing a spouse is the same. “Losing a spouse is an unimaginable loss, and I believe we should be doing everything we can to make the aftermath of a tragedy as manageable as possible for the American people. This small, targeted fix will deliver meaningful relief that eliminates an arbitrary distinction which has no connection to the financial need of a widow or widower,” said Congressman Mike Lawler.",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-hosts-statewide-sheriffs-roundtable-discuss-hochuls-ban,Congresswoman Tenney Hosts Statewide Sheriffs Roundtable to Discuss Hochul’s Ban on Local Cooperation with ICE,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oswego County, N.Y. — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today hosted a roundtable and press conference with six New York sheriffs challenging the state’s Local Cops, Local Crimes Act to discuss the law’s impact on local law enforcement, public safety, and cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. New York’s Local Cops, Local Crimes Act prohibits local governments and law enforcement agencies from entering into or remaining in agreements with ICE under the federal 287(g) program. Fifteen New York sheriffs filed a federal lawsuit on August 25 challenging the state’s prohibition, including sheriffs from within and outside New York’s 24th Congressional District. The federal 287(g) program allows ICE, under its direction and oversight, to authorize trained state and local law enforcement officers to perform specified immigration enforcement functions. While Governor Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James have sought to restrict cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE through the new law, the sheriffs’ lawsuit challenges New York’s authority to prevent local agencies from participating in the federal program. “New York’s sheriffs are on the front lines of keeping our communities safe, and Albany should not be standing in the way of their ability to work with federal law enforcement,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Today, I heard directly from sheriffs about what the 287(g) program means for their departments and the communities they serve. Governor Hochul’s Local Cops, Local Crimes Act takes this decision away from locally elected law enforcement leaders and prohibits partnerships that help them do their jobs. Our sheriffs deserve the tools, resources, and cooperation necessary to protect New Yorkers, and I will continue standing with them as they fight to preserve their ability to work with federal law enforcement.”",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/trump-craters-economy-meng-and-duckworth-reintroduce-resolution-empower,"AS TRUMP CRATERS ECONOMY, MENG AND DUCKWORTH REINTRODUCE RESOLUTION TO EMPOWER MOTHERS IN THE WORKFORCE",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Donald Trump’s reckless policies continue to crater our economy and leave families behind, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) reintroduced the Mom Economy Resolution to promote and empower mothers in the workforce across the nation. While the Trump Administration cuts critical lifelines that so many depend on and offer nothing to support Americans struggling to get by, the lawmakers’ bicameral resolution lays out a plan to support moms who enter and stay in the workplace through investments in childcare, the child tax credit, SNAP, increasing the minimum wage and paid leave. The legislation also includes additional provisions seeking to assist LGBTQ+ mothers and maternal care/family planning resources. “Moms are the backbone of our economy, but too often, the economy doesn’t work for them,” said Congresswoman Meng. ""Women still earn just 84 cents for every dollar earned by men, even as so many are bringing home half—or all—of their family’s income. That has to change. I’m proud to introduce the Mom Economy Resolution with Senator Duckworth, which builds on my Marshall Plan for Moms, to recognize the burdens working moms face and renew the call for paid leave, affordable childcare, and the support families need to thrive.” “Costs are climbing, childcare is more expensive and too many moms are feeling left behind by an Administration that promised to help,” said Senator Duckworth. “If we want to build a stronger economy, it’s past time we stop treating moms’ time as both expendable and endless. Our resolution recognizes the urgent need to invest in moms and make it easier for them to succeed in our workforce by advancing policies like universal child are, paid leave and beyond. Republicans in Congress must stop prioritizing harmful tax cuts that only benefit the ultra-wealthy and start working with Democrats to pass meaningful legislation that meets the needs of mothers across the country.” ""The childcare crisis isn't a mom problem, it's a $172 billion economic problem, and mothers have been absorbing the cost alone for too long ” said Reshma Saujani, founder and CEO of Moms First. ""I'm grateful to Congresswoman Meng and Senator Duckworth for their leadership. When we invest in paid leave and affordable childcare, we're not just helping moms — we're growing the economy."" “The Mom Economy Resolution offers solutions to many of the devastating challenges moms and families are facing as our country’s care and affordability crises deepen,” said MomsRising Together Executive Director Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner. “It makes a powerful case for the measures that will open avenues for moms, families, small businesses, and our economy to thrive, including fair wages; affordable child care and health care, including maternal and reproductive care; improved access to nutritious food; paid family and medical leave; a permanent expansion of the Child Tax Credit; and a higher minimum wage. This is a finger-on-the-pulse Resolution and America’s moms are deeply grateful to Rep. Grace Meng for leading on it and championing the initiatives we urgently need.” “The Mom Economy Resolution highlights an essential, and often forgotten, principle that mothers, who face a persistent gender wage gap, are critical to our nation's workforce and economy,” said Dr. Jamila K. Taylor, president and CEO of the Institute for Women's Policy Research (IWPR). “IWPR is proud to support this resolution that recognizes the crucial role mothers, especially mothers of color, play in their families’ economic security. By investing in care infrastructure, expanding inclusive tax credits, and improving workplace supports, we can strengthen families and the economy. The childcare crisis isn't a mom problem, it's a $172 billion economic problem, and mothers have been absorbing the cost alone for too long. I'm grateful to Congresswoman Meng and Senator Duckworth for their leadership. When we invest in paid leave and affordable childcare, we're not just helping moms — we're growing the economy.” Supported by MomsRising Together the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, Moms First, National Partnership for Women and Families, A Better Balance, and National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum, this resolution comes at a time where the labor force has 20% fewer women in it than men, while at least four out of every ten women report having experienced gender discrimination at work. Moreover, the median earnings for women who work full-time is 84 cents and part-time 78 cents, for every dollar paid to men. The rate of the wage gap is even higher for Black women, Latinas, Native women and other communities of Asian American and Pacific Islander women. Along with Meng, the legislation is cosponsored in the House by U.S Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Judy Chu (D-CA), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL). Along with Duckworth, the legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR). Meng has long been a leading advocate for policies that strengthen working families—supporting affordable childcare, paid leave, paid sick days, and family-friendly workplaces. Meng is a cosponsor of the Child Care for Working Families Act, comprehensive legislation to expand the supply and quality of childcare while lowering costs for families. She also reintroduced the Honoring Family-Friendly Workplaces Act, which would encourage employers to adopt policies such as paid family leave, paid sick days, child care subsidies, flexible work arrangements, and support for pregnant and postpartum workers.",1,2026-09-27T10:23:37Z,2026-09-27T10:25:08Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-langworthy-announces-introduction-bipartisan-surge-save-newborns,Congressman Langworthy Announces Introduction Of Bipartisan Surge to Save Newborns Act,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Clarence, NY—September 25th… Congressman Nick Langworthy today announced the introduction of the bipartisan Surge to Save Newborns Act, bipartisan legislation co-led by Democrat Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-8) that would provide states with dedicated federal resources to implement newborn screenings for serious health conditions included on the federal Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP). Congressman Langworthy made the announcement joined by NFL Hall of Fame Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly and his wife, Jill, who lost their son, Hunter to Krabbe disease. Newborn screening can identify serious health conditions shortly after birth, giving families and doctors the opportunity to pursue appropriate follow-up care as early as possible. While the federal government maintains the RUSP to identify conditions recommended for inclusion in state newborn screening programs, adding a condition to the federal panel does not necessarily mean states immediately implement screening for that condition. The Surge to Save Newborns Act would help close that gap by establishing a new federal grant program specifically designed to help states implement screening for conditions included on the RUSP. The legislation would provide $35 million annually from Fiscal Year 2027 through Fiscal Year 2031 for states to strengthen their newborn screening infrastructure and implement recommended screenings. “One of our most sacred duties as a society is to protect our newborn babies,” said Congressman Langworthy. “We already have the technological advancements to detect serious conditions—now we must do everything in our power to ensure that every single newborn has access to them. Adding a condition to the federal recommended panel is a good first step, but we need to make sure that states have the resources to put the screenings into practice. This bill will literally save lives and help get these precious babies into treatment before it’s too late. We have to get this done.” Congresswoman Kim Schrier said, “As a pediatrician, I’ve taken care of patients whose conditions were discovered early on their newborn screen. Because we had the resources to screen for these diseases, we were able to help babies right away and save lives. However, states often lack the resources to screen for each condition listed on the recommended panel, which puts our children at risk. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure that newborns in Washington state and across the country are screened for all of these treatable conditions at birth.” “When our son Hunter (2/14/97–8/5/05) was diagnosed with Krabbe disease, we learned firsthand how devastating it is to receive a diagnosis after the window for disease-altering treatment has already closed. Finding them early through newborn screening can mean the difference between life and death. The Surge to Save Newborns Act gives us a real opportunity to help states screen more babies, sooner, for conditions we already know should be found at birth. Hunter gave our family a mission - to fight so that other children have the best possible chance at a healthy life from the very start.” - Jim Kelly, Founder of Hunter's Hope The Surge to Save Newborns Act would: Provide dedicated funding to states: Establish a federal grant program administered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services to help states implement newborn screening for conditions included on the RUSP. Target funding directly to state implementation: Allow a state's chief health executive, their designee, or a state governmental agency to apply for funding and explain how the grants would be used to implement recommended screenings. Track state progress: Require annual reports to Congress from FY2027 through FY2031 identifying which recommended conditions each state screens for, which have not yet been implemented, the effectiveness of the grants, and recommendations for legislative or administrative action. Invest in newborn screening infrastructure: Provide $35 million annually from FY2027 through FY2031, with funds remaining available until expended. The legislation is supported by a broad coalition of rare-disease patient advocacy organizations, family foundations and children’s health organizations representing families affected by conditions that can be detected through newborn screening, including the Children’s Hospital Association, ALD Alliance, ALD Connect, Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome Advocacy Association, Association for Creatine Deficiencies, Believing for Bryleigh Foundation, Conner's Crusade, CTX Alliance, Cure ALD, HCU Network America, Hunter’s Hope Foundation, Judson's Legacy, Katelynn’s Butterfly Kisses, Krabbe Connect, Little Hercules Foundation, MLD Foundation, Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, Project Alive, the RARE Foundation, Remember The Girls, The Global Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders, United Leukodystrophy Foundation, United MSD Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders , and the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). “Time is of the essence is rare disease. Rare conditions prioritized for federal newborn screening are serious, progressive, and often life-threatening. Our newborn screening system has the ability to detect a treatable rare disease in a newborn before irreversible damage occurs, improving that baby’s health outcome -- and even saving their life. But for today’s life-saving potential to be realized for our nation’s newborns, states must have the critical resources needed to screen for all recommended conditions. Newborn screening saves lives, but only when we can screen.” – Annie Kennedy, Chief Mission Officer, RARE Foundation ""The Surge to Save Newborns Act will help states overcome the barriers that delay implementation of recommended newborn screening and give more families access to an early diagnosis, saving countless lives. We are deeply grateful to Congressman Langworthy and Congresswoman Schrier for championing a stronger newborn screening system for every baby in America.”—Elisa Seeger, Founder of the ALD Alliance and Founding Partner of the Surge to Save Newborns",1,2026-09-28T11:29:07Z,2026-09-28T11:30:58Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4667,"Tonko, Cammack Introduce Bipartisan TIME Act",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representatives Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Kat Cammack (R-FL) today introduced H.R. 10611, the Temporary International Movement of Equines (TIME) Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation that modernizes federal requirements governing the temporary international movement of elite competition and racehorses. The TIME Act directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to develop a science-based, risk-based regulatory framework that reflects internationally recognized standards while maintaining strong protections for equine health and biosecurity. “Aligning with international safety standards benefits fans, athletes, economies, and the sport as a whole, which is what drove me to introduce the TIME Act,” Congressman Tonko said. “This bill prioritizes equine health and safety while pushing venues like my district’s own Saratoga Racetrack and its athletes further onto the international stage. I thank Congresswoman Cammack for joining me to champion this bill, and urge my colleagues to join us in this effort.” “Marion County is the Horse Capital of the World, and the best horses on the planet should be able to come here and compete without getting tangled up in red tape. The TIME Act brings our rules in line with proven international standards and keeps strong protections in place for the horses already here. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Tonko on this bill and to keep working with the American Horse Council to get it across the finish line,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “We applaud Representatives Tonko and Cammack for their bipartisan leadership in advancing the TIME Act. Their willingness to listen to the equine community and champion this issue marks an important step toward ensuring the United States remains a leading destination for international equine competition for years to come,” said Julie Broadway, President of the American Horse Council. The United States is a major destination for international equestrian sport and racing, a role that will become even more visible as the country prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and other major international competitions. Current U.S. import requirements, however, can create obstacles for international horses traveling temporarily to compete in the United States. Elite international competition horses are subject to rigorous health, identification, traceability, and biosecurity protocols. The TIME Act recognizes those safeguards and directs USDA to establish requirements appropriate to the health profile and temporary nature of their entry into the United States. The legislation draws on the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) High Health, High Performance (HHP) framework, an internationally recognized approach to the temporary movement of elite competition horses. The approach also has support within the U.S. animal-health community. The United States Animal Health Association (USAHA) has formally urged USDA to recognize HHP horses as a distinct subpopulation and use the WOAH framework to implement the concept in the United States for qualified competition and racehorses. Specifically, the TIME Act would: Direct USDA to establish regulations for the temporary international movement of high-health, high-performance horses. Establish a risk-based system incorporating identification, traceability, and biosecurity measures. Provide expedited entry procedures and modified quarantine protocols consistent with international best practices. Improve the efficiency of USDA animal health oversight by reducing duplicative requirements and allowing agency resources to remain focused on higher-risk disease concerns. AHC spearheaded an industry coalition working to advance the policy, bringing together organizations from across the equine sector around the shared goal of facilitating international competition while protecting the health of the domestic horse population. Early supporters of the TIME Act include the U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF), American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), The Jockey Club, and other industry stakeholders. With the bill now introduced, AHC will continue working with congressional leaders, federal policymakers, and stakeholder organizations to build support for the legislation and advance the initiative through Congress. Support for the Legislation “The US Equestrian Federation looks forward to working collaboratively with the USDA to improve policies for international movement of high-performance horses. In our capacity as a national governing body via the Ted Stevens Act, we recognize the complexities that come with temporary international travel overseas and similar challenges for competitors from other countries. The United States has become one of the largest international competition hosts in the world. Our goal is to keep all horse populations safe and healthy, and the proposed joint partnership between government and private resources is a big step in the right direction.” David O’Connor, Olympic medalist and US Equestrian Chief of Sport “Modernizing these requirements means a reduction in quarantine time and post-arrival restrictions for the temporary entry of competition and racehorses that are already among the healthiest and most closely monitored in the world. That’s a win for equine welfare and for the health of horses.” Dr. Sarah Reuss, AAEP President “The TIME Act recognizes that modern identification, traceability, and biosecurity tools can support both horse welfare and international competition. By creating a framework for the temporary movement of high-health, high-performance horses, this legislation would reduce unnecessary barriers to international participation in U.S. racing while maintaining rigorous animal health safeguards. As the United States prepares to host some of the world’s premier racing and equestrian events, a science-based approach to equine movement helps ensure our entire equine industry remains competitive on the global stage while protecting the health and welfare of horses.” Kristin Werner, Vice President of Thoroughbred Strategy & Industry Initiatives; The Jockey Club “The Breeders’ Cup World Championships are built on bringing together the best horses and their connections from around the globe, and efficient international movement is essential to making that possible. The world’s elite horses are also among the most rigorously tested, health-certified, and examined equine athletes, with extensive veterinary oversight surrounding their international movement and participation. “We support the TIME Act’s effort to modernize the process for high-performance horses while maintaining rigorous protections for equine health and biosecurity. A science-based framework that reflects the realities of international competition will help strengthen the United States’ position as a destination for world-class racing and other equestrian sports.” Drew Fleming, President & CEO, Breeders’ Cup Limited",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/malliotakis-cosponsors-bipartisan-frontier-act-establish-national-ai-framework,Malliotakis Cosponsors Bipartisan FRONTIER Act to Establish National AI Framework,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicole Malliotakis,M000317,malliotakis.house.gov,malliotakis,https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(WASHINGTON, D.C.) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) is joining Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23) and Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), alongside Representatives Scott Franklin (R-FL-18), Scott Peters (D-CA-50), Erin Houchin (R-IN-09), and Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), in cosponsoring H.R. 9925, Frontier Risk Oversight, National Transparency, Independent Evaluation, and Reporting (FRONTIER) Act. This bipartisan legislation would establish a national, risk-based framework for the development and deployment of the most advanced artificial intelligence models. The FRONTIER Act establishes tiered requirements based on the size of a frontier AI developer, including model cards, risk-management frameworks, independent audits, incident reporting, and ongoing assessments. It also creates a uniform national standard for transparency, auditing, and reporting of catastrophic risk to prevent a patchwork of state regulations.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joe-morelle-introduces-legislation-support-students-facing,CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO SUPPORT STUDENTS FACING FINANCIAL EMERGENCIES,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced the introduction of legislation to help ensure unexpected financial emergencies do not prevent students from continuing their education and completing their degrees. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) also introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The Emergency Grant Aid for College Students Act establishes an emergency grant program for institutions of higher education to efficiently provide small grants to support students with unexpected expenses that may otherwise jeopardize their ability to complete their education. “Every student deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education and achieve their goals,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “For too many students, an unexpected car repair, medical bill, housing expense, or other emergency can be the difference between staying in school and being forced to leave their education. The Emergency Grant Aid for College Students Act would give colleges and universities the tools they need to respond quickly when students face these challenges and help ensure a temporary financial setback does not derail years of hard work.” The Emergency Grant Aid for College Students Act would establish a new grant program through the U.S. Department of Education. The program would prioritize institutions serving students with significant financial need, including community colleges, rural and under-resourced institutions, and institutions where at least one-third of enrolled students are eligible for Federal Pell Grants. Participating institutions would determine student eligibility and award assistance based on individual circumstances, with grants available up to the maximum Federal Pell Grant for the academic year. The legislation also ensures this emergency assistance would not reduce a student’s eligibility for other federal financial aid or public benefits and would not be counted as taxable income. Read more about this legislation here. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ocasio-cortez-markey-reintroduce-civilian-climate-corps-jobs-and-justice,"Ocasio-Cortez, Markey Reintroduce Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice to Rebuild America",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,O000172,ocasio-cortez.house.gov,ocasio-cortez,https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bill Text (PDF) | One-Pager (PDF) WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) reintroduced the Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice Act, legislation that would establish a Civilian Climate Corps (CCC), administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service within AmeriCorps, which follows in the footsteps of the New Deal-era Civilian Conservation Corps, with important equitable updates. The CCC would provide good-paying service opportunities to a diverse group of 1.5 million Americans over five years to complete clean energy, climate resilience, environmental remediation, conservation, and sustainable infrastructure projects, while providing transformational educational benefits and career pathways in good union jobs. “The impacts of the climate crisis are being felt across our country, with extreme weather events taking lives and causing billions in devastating losses. We need a massive public investment to combat the toll of wildfires, floods, and hurricanes. That is why I am proud to reintroduce the Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice Act alongside Senator Ed Markey, which puts 1.5 million people to work forging climate-resilient communities. The urgency of this moment requires us to respond with robust and reliable solutions,” said Representative Ocasio-Cortez. “As Americans face frequent extreme weather disasters, a job market disrupted by the expansion of artificial intelligence, and other economic challenges, the Civilian Climate Corps presents an opportunity to support meaningful job opportunities and efforts to combat the climate crisis,” said Senator Markey. “I am proud to work with Representative Ocasio-Cortez to continue to fight for this program, which would provide an opportunity for more than a million Americans—especially young people—from every walk of life to earn a good wage while serving their communities and working toward a climate-resilient future.” The Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice Act is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and in the House of Representatives by Representatives Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Summer Lee (PA-12), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), and Jasmine Crockett (TX-30). Senator Markey and Representative Ocasio-Cortez first introduced the Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice Act in April 2021. This CCC proposal, and others like it, inspired the Biden administration to launch the American Climate Corps in 2023. Trump dismantled the American Climate Corps on his first day back in office. This legislation is endorsed by: AFSCME; Appalachian Mountain Club; Evergreen Action; Food & Water Watch; the Forum for Youth Investment; Grid Alternatives; Indivisible; Louisiana Green Corps; Partnership for the Civilian Climate Corps; SEIU; Sierra Club; Sunrise Movement; Union of Concerned Scientists; United Electrical, Radio, and Machine Workers of America (UE); WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “America’s workforce has tremendous potential to fight climate change and build a safer future. The Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice Act will help unlock that potential by creating pathways to good-paying jobs to boost our economy while building pollution-free communities across the country,” said Evergreen Action Executive Director Lena Moffitt. “With the support of this legislation, the next generation of the energy and climate workforce will have the skills they need to withstand climate disasters and to lead the clean energy transition.” “Young people are desperate for good-paying, meaningful jobs that allow us to build a future worth living in. We’ve spent a summer choking on wildfire smoke and watching our communities flood, while housing and food become increasingly unaffordable. Now, as AI threatens to upend entire industries, young people are spending years in college preparing for jobs that may not even exist. We need jobs that provide stability, purpose, and a livable future. We need a Civilian Climate Corps, now,” said Aru Shiney-Ajay, Executive Director of the Sunrise Movement. “This is timely legislation as communities across the nation are struggling with worsening climate impacts and rising energy costs and urgently need policymakers to help protect them by boosting resilience and clean energy. Investing in a civilian climate corps is a huge opportunity to create good paying jobs with on-the-job training while advancing the solutions frontline communities need and deserve,” said Rachel Cleetus, Interim Program Director for Climate & Energy at the Union of Concerned Scientists. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-ocasio-cortez-pressley-bera-senators-murray-hirono-cortez,"Representatives Ocasio-Cortez, Pressley, Bera, Senators Murray, Hirono, Cortez Masto, Reintroduce Bill to Expand Coverage of Birth Control in America",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,O000172,ocasio-cortez.house.gov,ocasio-cortez,https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Ami Bera (CA-06), and U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) reintroduced their bicameral Affordability is Access Act. The Affordability is Access Act would require insurers to fully cover over-the-counter birth control without any fees or out-of-pocket costs, once it’s FDA-approved. The legislation also includes a new provision to require health insurance to cover every FDA-approved contraceptive drug or drug-led combination product without cost sharing unless the health plan also covers a therapeutically equivalent generic without cost sharing—this would significantly eliminate barriers that some patients face in accessing contraceptives prescribed by their provider. This reintroduction comes as the Trump administration continues their senseless attacks on reproductive care, family planning, and contraception. Throughout the press conference, speakers discussed the administration’s moves to cancel teen pregnancy prevention grants, their attempts to decimate Title X, and their attacks on contraception—including the State Department’s extremist decision to falsely label birth control products as abortifacients. “I am proud to reintroduce the Affordability is Access Act alongside Representative Ayanna Pressley and Senator Patty Murray, which will make birth control widely accessible and affordable without a prescription,” said Rep Ocasio-Cortez. “As this administration continues to attack bodily autonomy, we will continue to fight to ensure that people everywhere have access to reproductive care.” ""While Trump and his Republican co-conspirators attack our bodily autonomy and make life less affordable, we’re fighting hard to protect reproductive freedom, lower costs, and ensure contraceptives are affordable nationwide,"" said Rep. Pressley. “Our bill would make over-the-counter birth control accessible to all who need it, without the burden of prescriptions or out-of-pocket costs. Reproductive justice means protecting and expanding reproductive healthcare, and I'm proud to partner with Senators Murray, Cortez Masto, and Hirono, alongside Reps. Bera and Ocasio-Cortez, and our colleagues to make that a reality for all.” “When it comes to birth control, the challenge we face isn’t just to stop Trump from setting up new barriers. We have to tear down the barriers that have been standing for far too long—like cost,” said Senator Murray. “We have to put forward our own vision for the future—not just reject Trump’s far-right dystopia. That’s why we are re-introducing the Affordability is Access Act. This bill would require insurance to fully cover safe, over-the-counter birth control for patients. And this year we made a big update: our bill will also make sure all other FDA-approved forms of contraception are covered for patients. No fees. No hurdles. No out-of-pocket costs. This is especially important because, as of March 2024, there is an over-the counter birth control pill that women can buy at pharmacies and grocery stores. Trump has made his vision painfully clear, he wants to take women’s rights away, he wants to set birth control on fire. Well, this bill is our vision as Democrats. We want to protect women’s rights. And we want to protect your birth control.” “As the Trump regime continues to attack reproductive freedom, fighting for contraception access has never been more important,” said Senator Hirono. ""FDA approval of over-the-counter birth control is a major step forward, but approval alone does not guarantee access. By requiring insurance companies to cover over-the-counter contraception at no cost and without a prescription, this legislation will help to ensure women nationwide have the power to control their bodies and their lives."" “Congress must pass the Affordability is Access Act to expand Americans’ reproductive freedoms even as this Administration tries to shrink them,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Birth control has helped thousands of Nevadans and millions of Americans live healthy lives. It’s past time we made sure every woman who wants it has an affordable over-the-counter option they can buy.” “Birth control is essential healthcare that everyone, no matter their insurance or income, should be able to get when they need it,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “This act is a crucial first step in removing cost barriers and expanding access to contraception. As anti-reproductive health lawmakers continue to do everything in their power to restrict access to care, we’re grateful to Sen. Murray for reintroducing this bill.” “Contraception is a fundamental part of reproductive health care and autonomy— it gives people the power to shape their own futures,” said Daria Neal, Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Center for Reproductive Rights. “Everyone who needs contraception should be able to access and afford it. Yet the Trump Administration has repeatedly put that access at risk, from subverting the federal family planning program and ending teen pregnancy prevention grants, to letting millions of dollars in taxpayer-funded contraceptives go to waste overseas. We're grateful to Senator Murray and her colleagues for standing up for reproductive rights and supporting this critically important legislation."" “With the sudden termination of AccessMatters’ teen pregnancy prevention initiative, over 2,500 adolescents in Philadelphia immediately lost access to everything this program provided over the last three years – including evidence-based education programming, parent workshops, connections to local healthcare providers, assistance setting up medical appointments and accessing contraceptives, and leadership opportunities for the Youth Advisory Board,” said Audrey Ann Ross, Senior Manager of Communications and Policy at AccessMatters. “This loss of access coupled with the shifts in Title X program priorities further underscore the need for policies that support access to contraceptives and sexual and reproductive health care and information. We urge Congress to pass policies like the Affordability in Access Act and to also demand that HHS immediately restore this funding so that adolescents nationwide can continue benefitting from these programs.” Under the Affordable Care Act, all private health insurance plans are required to fully cover — without copays or out-of-pocket costs — prescribed U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, granted, or cleared methods of contraception. The Affordability is Access Act would change this to apply to over-the-counter birth control that women can get without a prescription. The Affordability is Access Act would also maintain the FDA’s sole authority to determine the safety and efficacy of drugs and make them available over the counter without a prescription, and ensure retailers provide contraception without a prescription. The legislation states that any retailer that stocks contraception that the FDA has approved, granted, or cleared without a prescription may not interfere with a consumer’s access to or purchase of such contraception. The bill is endorsed by: Contraceptive Access Initiative (CAI), National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association (NFPRHA), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Upstream USA, Reproductive Health Access Project, Physicians for Reproductive Health, National Partnership for Women & Families, Healthy Teen Network, Jacobs Institute of Women's Health, Reproductive Freedom for All, Power to Decide, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, The Center for Biological Diversity, National Council of Jewish Women, Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, National Women's Law Center Action Fund, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Advocates for Youth, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, AIDS United, National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum, National Network of Abortion Funds, Center for Reproductive Rights, National Organization for Women (NOW), Religious Community for Reproductive Choice, The Guttmacher Institute, Population Connection Action Fund, American College of Nurse Mid-Wives, and Ibis Reproductive Health. Read the full text of the Affordability is Access Act HERE. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-adds-new-constituent-resource-trump-accounts,Congresswoman Tenney Adds New Constituent Resource on Trump Accounts,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24)today announced a new Trump Accounts informational resource on her congressional website to help families across New York’s 24th District understand the program, eligibility requirements, and how to access official federal resources. Trump Accounts are tax-advantaged accounts established for eligible children under federal law. Children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, who meet federal eligibility requirements may receive a one-time $1,000 contribution from the U.S. Treasury. The accounts are established for eligible children who are U.S. citizens, under federal law in the child’s name, with a parent or guardian serving as custodian until the child turns 18. Tenney’s new constituent resource provides an overview of Trump Accounts, information about the federal seed contribution and certain charitable contributions, and instructions for accessing the official Trump Accounts program. “Every parent wants to give their child a strong start and the opportunity to build a successful future,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Trump Accounts create a new opportunity for eligible children to have an account established in their name, including a $1,000 federal contribution for those who qualify. Families deserve clear and accessible information about federal programs available to them, which is why our office has created this resource to explain how Trump Accounts work and connect constituents directly with the official federal program.”",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6521,Lawler Introduces Legislation to Update Home Safety Design Features for HUD Housing,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/24/26… This week Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Home Accessibility Improvements Inclusion Act, legislation that directs the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to update its options for universal design features and to train appraisers on how to properly value universal‑design and accessibility improvements, which can be financed through the FHA’s 203(k) rehab mortgage program. Universal design features include zero‑step entrances, wider doorways and hallways, accessible bathrooms, lever‑style handles, and walls reinforced for grab bars.",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://riley.house.gov/2026/09/24/riley-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-transit-access-in-rural-communities/,RILEY INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN BILL TO IMPROVE TRANSIT ACCESS IN RURAL COMMUNITIES,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Josh Riley,R000622,riley.house.gov,riley,https://riley.house.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Representative Josh Riley (NY-19) and Representative James Gallagher (CA-01) introduced the Improving Rural Transportation Act. This bipartisan bill will create a federal grant program to fund rural transportation infrastructure and help communities deploy ride-share and micro-transit programs with a focus on public-private partnerships. “In Upstate New York, getting to the doctor, the grocery store, or the post office can mean driving 20 or 30 miles. If you don’t have a car or can’t drive, that becomes a real problem real fast,” said Riley. “Small towns should have the tools to come up with solutions that work for them. This bill gives rural communities more options, brings local leaders and businesses to the table, and helps make sure folks can get where they need to go.” “Rural communities deserve transportation options that actually work for them, not one-size-fits-all solutions designed for big cities. The Improving Rural Transportation Act gives smaller communities more flexibility to develop transportation services that fit their needs while bringing the private sector to the table. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Congressman Riley and give rural America a better shot at the transportation investments it deserves,” said Gallagher. The Improving Rural Transportation Act would: Create a Department of Transportation grant program for communities with populations under 200,000. Help fund rideshare, microtransit, flexible-route, and other transportation programs. Give priority to projects that bring together local governments, private-sector partners, and nonprofit organizations. Require state or local partners to cover at least 20 percent of project costs. The legislation is endorsed by the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE). “The Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) is proud to endorse the bipartisan ‘Improving Rural Transportation Act.’ This proposed legislation represents a critical opportunity to invest in advanced transportation technologies outside of urban centers, positioning rural communities at the forefront of American technological innovation in the transportation sector. CTE’s work supporting rural fleets across the country as they plan for and deploy advanced transportation technologies has reinforced the importance of improving transportation access and quality in rural communities. We applaud Representatives Riley and Gallagher for advancing legislation that responds to the needs of their constituents while encouraging continued innovation in the transportation sector,” said CTE Executive Director Dan Raudebaugh. You can read the text of the Improving Rural Transportation Act HERE. ###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/23/leader-jeffries-in-the-capitol-house-democrats-are-running-toward-the-finish-line-and-republicans-are-running-scared/,LEADER JEFFRIES IN THE CAPITOL: “HOUSE DEMOCRATS ARE RUNNING TOWARD THE FINISH LINE AND REPUBLICANS ARE RUNNING SCARED”,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press availability, where he emphasized that while Republicans have neglected to make life better for the American people and are doing nothing to end Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice, Democrats are focused on rooting out corruption and fighting for an affordable America. LEADER JEFFRIES: It’s about six weeks until Judgment Day. Democrats are running toward the finish line. Republicans are running scared all across the country. The American people know that the Trump-Republican economy has been a complete and total failure and that Democrats are on their side. Democrats are committed to driving down the high cost of living. Democrats are committed to making sure that healthcare is affordable for every single American. And Democrats are committed to ending this reckless war of choice in Iran that has skyrocketed gas prices, skyrocketed food prices and skyrocketed diesel prices on the American people in the Midwest and beyond. Six weeks until Judgment Day, House Democrats are running toward the finish line and Republicans are running scared. Full press availability can be watched here. ###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-langworthy-and-pocan-introduce-bipartisan-compact-act-end-taxpayer,Congressmen Langworthy and Pocan Introduce Bipartisan COMPACT Act to End Taxpayer-Funded Biomedical Testing on Dogs and Cats,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — September 23rd…Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) and Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02) today announced the introduction of the Companion Animal Protection Against Cruel Testing (COMPACT) Act, the most comprehensive legislation in history to modernize federally funded biomedical research and end inhumane testing practices on dogs and cats. The legislation was announced at a press conference in Washington with the nation’s leading animal wellness organizations and rescue beagles released from Ridglan Farms in Wisconsin, which drew national attention and closure following revelations of widespread abuse. The COMPACT Act prohibits the use of federal public-health research funds for biomedical research involving live dogs and cats while protecting animals currently in research facilities and preserving flexibility for genuine national emergencies. The legislation, developed with input from the medical and bioscience community, comes as advances in biomedical science have created alternatives to traditional animal testing, including in vitro systems, computational modeling and other non-animal technologies. “The horrific abuse and barbaric treatment of beagles uncovered inside research facilities like Ridglan Farms and Marshall Bioresources has outraged Americans from every corner of the country and political spectrum,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “Dogs and cats are companion animals and part of the family for millions of Americans; they should never have to endure inhumane suffering, particularly at expense to taxpayers and when science has evolved to develop more effective research methods. This is the most comprehensive legislation to date that moves our federal research system forward to better outcomes, while protecting innocent animals. I’m proud to work with my colleague, Congressman Pocan, on this thoughtful, bipartisan legislation.” “What happened at Ridglan Farms was a wake-up call for our community and for the country,” said Congressman Mark Pocan. “We saw thousands of beagles confined in inhumane conditions and bred for research, and we saw what was possible when people came together to demand change. This is a nonpartisan issue, and I am glad to work with Congressman Langworthy to build on that progress with the COMPACT Act. For years, our federal research agencies have worked on reducing animal testing and turning to more humane and effective alternatives, and this legislation takes the important next step in modernizing our federally funded research and protecting animals.” The COMPACT Act would: Prohibit the use of federal funds administered by the Department of Health and Human Services and relevant subagencies for research involving live dogs and cats, including grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, fellowships, training awards and other federal funding mechanisms. Protect and rehome animals currently being used for biomedical testing, giving them an opportunity for life outside research facilities. Establish strong compliance and oversight mechanisms and provide law enforcement with tools to protect dogs and cats from taxpayer-funded experimentation. Increase transparency and accountability at HHS through an annual agency report and a Government Accountability Office review three years after enactment. Provide clear standards and transition provisions for research institutions, giving facilities certainty as they move toward modern, non-animal research methods. The legislation is endorsed by the nation’s leading animal rights and wellness advocacy groups, including the Animal Wellness Action, White Coat Waste Project, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Humane World for Animals, Humane World Action Fund, Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Beagle Freedom Project, PETA, and Save the Dogs. “We are past due to close out the long, painful era of government-funded invasive testing on beagles and on cats,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. “In a world of predictive AI, organoids, and so many other biomedical innovations, American taxpayers need not subsidize ineffective experiments on animals widely recognized as beloved members of our families. We thank Congressman Langworthy and Pocan for leading an effort to usher in cruelty-free medicines and animal-free science.” ""This is a common-sense Act long overdue in recognizing that dogs and cats deserve protection. The federal government should not be funding experimentation on them when they belong in homes. Beagle Freedom Project stands at the ready to place these animals in loving homes,"" said Shannon Keith, president and founder. “The COMPACT Act is a long-overdue step toward ending the use of dogs and cats in animal research” said Blair Eagleson, Legislative Affairs Fellow at the Animal Legal Defense Fund. “By ensuring that the Department of Health and Human Services will not fund these practices, we are protecting our companion animals and encouraging biomedical research to prioritize humane methods. The Animal Legal Defense Fund thanks Congressman Langworthy for championing this cause to protect future dogs and cats from being used for research and offering a pathway to find loving homes for those who are currently suffering in labs.” “Dogs and cats belong in homes, not laboratories, and taxpayer dollars should support research that better translates to human health. The COMPACT Act will help direct federal agencies toward research that benefits people and spares animals. The Physicians Committee commends Rep. Langworthy and Rep. Pocan for recognizing that protecting animals and improving science go hand in hand,” said Janine McCarthy, director of research policy at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Wayne Hsiung of Save the Dogs said, ""Americans have been paying $40 million a year to fund cruel experiments on dogs and most have no idea. The COMPACT Act finally puts taxpayers back in control of their own money, and ends a program the science stopped justifying long ago. We're grateful to Rep Langworthy for leading this fight."" “Americans should not be forced to pay for painful, deadly experiments on dogs and cats when modern, reliable, human-relevant research methods are available,” said Kathy Guillermo, PETA Senior Vice President. “The bipartisan COMPACT Act will help move federally funded research into the 21st century while protecting dogs and cats from suffering in laboratories. PETA applauds Representatives Langworthy and Pocan for their leadership and urges Congress to swiftly pass this commonsense legislation.”",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://nadler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397536,Congressional Jewish Caucus Urges Secretary Rubio To Preserve The Office Of The Special Envoy For Holocaust Issues As A Permanent And Distinct Entity,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Jerrold Nadler,N000002,nadler.house.gov,nadler,https://nadler.house.gov/news,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Co-Chairs Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) and Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) led the Congressional Jewish Caucus in calling on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to preserve the office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues (SEHI) as a permanent and distinct entity within the Department of State and not for SEHI to be absorbed under the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism (SEAS). This letter highlights that SEHI is the only office in the federal government solely devoted to pursuing justice for Holocaust survivors and advocating on their behalf, and the need to appoint a career official as the next SEHI, with the seniority, diplomatic experience, and specialized expertise necessary to negotiate complex restitution and compensation matters. “Since its establishment in 1999, the Office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues has been the only office in the federal government solely devoted to pursuing justice for Holocaust survivors and advocating on their behalf,” the members wrote. “The office has also been supported on a bipartisan basis in Congress and administrations of both parties have actively affirmed its importance. For decades, SEHI has worked with foreign governments, international institutions, and Jewish organizations to pursue restitution and compensation for survivors and their families, recover Nazi-looted property, preserve Holocaust memory, and address unresolved Holocaust-era obligations. As the number of living Holocaust survivors continues to decline, this work is only becoming more urgent.” “That is why we oppose any effort to consolidate or eliminate SEHI and are troubled by the reported plan for the Office of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism (SEAS) to absorb the SEHI office. SEHI and SEAS have clearly distinct mandates and responsibilities,” the members continued. “Both are full-time responsibilities that require full-time principals with unique areas of focus and full-time staff with unique expertise. Combining them would not streamline efficiency or eliminate any meaningful duplication; it would risk diminishing the focus, experience, and institutional capacity necessary for each.” “The SEHI portfolio requires deep institutional knowledge, advanced diplomatic acumen, and sustained relationships with governments and international organizations,” the members added. “We ask that you appoint, as soon as possible, a senior career State Department official whose sole and full-time responsibility is serving as Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues. That official should have the seniority, diplomatic experience, and specialized expertise necessary to negotiate complex restitution and compensation matters and to maintain the relationships that SEHI has built over decades.” Signers of the letter include Reps. Jake Auchincloss, Becca Balint, Suzanne Bonamici, Steve Cohen, Lois Frankel, Laura Friedman, Dan Goldman, Josh Gottheimer, Sara Jacobs, Greg Landsman, Mike Levin, Jared Moskowitz, Jerrold Nadler, Jamie Raskin, Jan Schakowsky, Brad Schneider, Kim Schrier, Eugene Vindman, and Debbie Wasserman Schultz. View the full letter here and below. Dear Secretary Rubio, As members of the Congressional Jewish Caucus, we write to urge you to immediately appoint a new Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues (SEHI) and to preserve SEHI as a distinct, permanent office led by a dedicated career State Department official. Since its establishment in 1999, the Office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues has been the only office in the federal government solely devoted to pursuing justice for Holocaust survivors and advocating on their behalf. The office has also been supported on a bipartisan basis in Congress and administrations of both parties have actively affirmed its importance. For decades, SEHI has worked with foreign governments, international institutions, and Jewish organizations to pursue restitution and compensation for survivors and their families, recover Nazi-looted property, preserve Holocaust memory, and address unresolved Holocaust-era obligations. As the number of living Holocaust survivors continues to decline, this work is only becoming more urgent. That is why we oppose any effort to consolidate or eliminate SEHI and are troubled by the reported plan for the Office of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism (SEAS) to absorb the SEHI office. SEHI and SEAS have clearly distinct mandates and responsibilities. SEAS is responsible for confronting contemporary antisemitism around the world, while SEHI focuses on Holocaust-era restitution, historical justice, remembrance, and accountability. These missions are complementary, but they are not interchangeable. Both are full-time responsibilities that require full-time principals with unique areas of focus and full-time staff with unique expertise. Combining them would not streamline efficiency or eliminate any meaningful duplication; it would risk diminishing the focus, experience, and institutional capacity necessary for each. The effort is also especially troubling given the highly specialized nature of SEHI’s work and the longstanding success of having it led by a career diplomat with the expertise and continuity necessary to conduct sensitive restitution negotiations. The SEHI portfolio requires deep institutional knowledge, advanced diplomatic acumen, and sustained relationships with governments and international organizations. This unique mandate needs an independent office, fully integrated within the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, and without additional or perhaps superseding agenda items both with external interlocutors and internal stakeholders. Strong institutions must outlast individual officeholders and administrations. We are troubled by the suggestion that the plan to merge these offices may be motivated, at least in part, by a desire to expand the influence of certain personnel within the State Department. Jewish organizations across the ideological and institutional spectrum have recognized the importance of maintaining a dedicated SEHI. In their letter to you, leading organizations including the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, World Jewish Restitution Organization, American Jewish Committee, Anti-Defamation League, B’nai B’rith International, and more urged you to appoint a senior diplomat promptly and preserve the uniqueness of this important office. Their concern is shared by former SEAS and Holocaust experts who understand that preserving the distinct mission of SEHI is not bureaucratic duplication—it is an essential part of the United States’ commitment to Holocaust survivors and their families. We urge you to heed their call and to reject any effort to eliminate, consolidate, or dual-hat the SEHI position. Instead, we ask that you appoint, as soon as possible, a senior career State Department official whose sole and full-time responsibility is serving as Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues. That official should have the seniority, diplomatic experience, and specialized expertise necessary to negotiate complex restitution and compensation matters and to maintain the relationships that SEHI has built over decades. This appointment should be made with urgency. The recent departure of Special Envoy Germain creates a vacancy at precisely the moment when continuity is most important. There are fewer Holocaust survivors with each passing year. Every delay risks losing opportunities for restitution, accountability, and historical preservation that may never return.",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-ryan-hosts-roundtable-discussion-hudson-valley-gun-violence,CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN HOSTS ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION WITH HUDSON VALLEY GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION LEADERS IN POUGHKEEPSIE,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Patrick Ryan,R000579,patryan.house.gov,patryan,https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Ryan – an Army combat veteran and member of the Congressional Gun Violence Prevention Task Force – has been a consistent advocate for gun violence prevention throughout his time in Congress Guns remain the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States; Ryan is a proud co-sponsor of the Assault Weapons Ban and has championed legislation promoting universal background checks and safe gun storage Roundtable participants included representatives from Moms Demand Action, Family Services, local elected officials and more POUGHKEEPSIE, NY – Last week, Congressman Pat Ryan – an Army combat veteran and member of the Congressional Gun Violence Prevention Task Force – joined Hudson Valley community leaders and gun violence prevention advocates for a roundtable discussion in Poughkeepsie. As violent crime rates continue falling in the Hudson Valley, advocates and leaders discussed efforts to build upon that progress and keep communities safe. Guns remain the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States; in 2026, there have already been 83 incidents of gunfire on school grounds, resulting in 27 deaths and 47 injuries nationwide. Ryan is a proud co-sponsor of several bills curtailing the gun violence epidemic, including the Assault Weapons Ban. Roundtable participants included representatives from Moms Demand Action, Family Services, local elected officials and more. “I’m so grateful to everyone who gathered for today’s conversation. From local law enforcement, to elected leaders, to nonprofits dedicated to keeping our communities safe, this coalition has done amazing work toward ending the scourge of gun violence in Dutchess County and beyond. Tackling this epidemic requires all-hands-on-deck, and we recommitted to working together to save lives.,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “There is nothing more important than keeping our communities – especially our kids – safe. As a combat veteran I know the weapons I carried in war have no place on our streets or in our schools. That’s why I proudly co-sponsor the Assault Weapons Ban, and support legislation promoting red flag laws, safe firearm storage, and universal background checks. We’ve made encouraging progress, but there’s still more work ahead. While the Trump administration tries to roll back our efforts, I’m continuing to fight for commonsense gun safety legislation and to help make sure the people doing the work to keep our communities safe have the resources they need.” “At Family Services we see firsthand the devastating impact that violence has on children, families, and entire neighborhoods, and we also see the incredible strength and resilience of the people working to create safer communities,” said Leah Feldman, CEO, Family Services, Poughkeepsie. “That is why sustained investment in community violence intervention is so important. Programs like SNUG provide a critical connection between communities and the resources, support, and opportunities that can prevent violence. We are grateful for leaders like Congressman Ryan who recognize the importance of this work and continue to bring attention and resources to the effort to build safer communities.” When young people experience violence in their neighborhoods, schools, or homes, the impact can extend far beyond the immediate moment, affecting their sense of safety, their ability to learn, and their vision for what is possible for their future,” said Jill Gomez, ED, Poughkeepsie Children’s Cabinet. “As a Children’s Cabinet, we believe every young person deserves to grow up surrounded by adults, institutions, and systems that work together to create safe, connected communities. Preventing gun violence requires that same collective commitment: listening to young people and families, strengthening the places and relationships that protect them, and aligning our community’s resources around the conditions that allow every child to thrive.” “I am a Survivor Lead working out of MOMS Demand Action in the Hudson Valley. MOMS Demand Action continues to support initiatives that afford for our voices to be raised on Gun Violence prevention legislation and supporting candidates who wear GunSense on their sleeves. Boots on the ground advocacy for the support of Gun violence prevention is crucial, Gun Violence does not discriminate and we have to STAND ten toes down on electing those in office that will advocate endlessly to end Gun Violence. MOMS Demand Action will continue to advocate, be visible and support those entities that are working in sync to END GUN VIOLENCE,” said Kenya Gadsden. “Statistics often mention that on average 130 people are killed by guns every day in the U.S. with 200 shot and wounded. Guns are the leading cause of deaths among children and teens in this country. We can be the change!” Congressman Ryan is a proud member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and co-sponsor of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2025, which makes it illegal to import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess semiautomatic assault weapons or large-capacity ammunition feeding devices. Existing owners of these weapons must store them securely. It also authorizes the use of Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funds to run buyback programs to compensate people who surrender their covered weapons or large-capacity magazines. In addition to the Assault Weapons Ban of 2025, Congressman Ryan proudly co-sponsors: H.R.2368 – Raise the Age Act of 2025 raises the minimum age to buy a semiautomatic firearm from 18 to 21 and prohibits a licensed gun dealer, importer, collector, or manufacturer from selling or transferring a semiautomatic center-fire shotgun to an individual under 21. H.R.18 – Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2025 requires background checks for firearm transfers between private parties (i.e., unlicensed individuals) and prohibits the transfer of firearms between private parties unless a licensed gun dealer, manufacturer, or importer takes possession of the firearm first and conducts a background check. H.R.1564 – Ethan’s Law creates a framework to regulate firearm storage on residential premises at the federal, state, and tribal levels. At the federal level, it establishes requirements for firearms on residential premises to be safely stored if a minor can gain access or if a resident is ineligible to possess a firearm. Individuals who violate this rule face criminal penalties, and firearms stored in violation of the requirements are subject to seizure and forfeiture. At state and tribal levels, the bill requires the Department of Justice to award grants for the safe storage of firearms. H.R.3018 – Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act authorizes federal courts to issue federal extreme risk protection orders, which allow certain individuals (such as law enforcement officers and family members) to petition a court for a temporary order prohibiting an at-risk individual from purchasing or possessing firearms. H.R.4261 – Stopping the Fraudulent Sales of Firearms Act makes it illegal to sell or attempt to sell firearms or ammunition under pretenses. It strengthens regulations on the sale and distribution of firearms to improve overall safety and accountability in the firearms market. Congressman Ryan also knows that the intersection of gun violence and domestic abuse cannot be ignored. Women in the United States are five times more likely to be murdered if their abuser has access to a firearm, and someone is shot and killed by a current or former intimate partner every 12 hours. In May, Ryan introduced groundbreaking domestic violence legislation to protect victims and their families. Ryan’s bill works to expand New York State’s Melanie’s Law nationwide. Melanie’s Law, signed into law in New York in 2024, is named for Wappingers Falls woman Melanie Chianese. In 2022, Melanie was killed by her mother’s abuser after an egregious gap in the law left her unable to obtain an order of protection. Ryan’s legislation incentivizes states to adopt laws similar to Melanie’s Law through the creation of a new federal grant program. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/meng-statement-trump-administrations-additional-31-million-aid-nepal,MENG STATEMENT ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S ADDITIONAL $31 MILLION IN AID TO NEPAL AND TIBET,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) today released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to provide an additional $31 million in humanitarian assistance to Nepal and Tibet following the deadly flooding on August 26: “After devastating floods struck Nepal and Tibet, the United States initially sent only one advisor and $500,000 in assistance. Trump Administration officials themselves acknowledged that the U.S. response was ‘slow.’ After I pressed Administration officials during an Appropriations Committee hearing to increase aid and strengthen rescue support, the Administration is now delivering a total of $36 million in humanitarian assistance. While this remains far below what affected communities need, it is a significant improvement over the Administration’s original response. As families continue searching for loved ones and communities begin the difficult work of recovery, I will continue standing with Nepali and Tibetan communities in Queens and advocating for the robust assistance they need to rebuild.”",1,2026-09-27T10:23:37Z,2026-09-27T10:25:08Z https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2484,Stop Trump’s Tariff Tax: Kennedy Warns Escalating Trade War with Canada Threatens Western New York Manufacturing Jobs,2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Timothy M. Kennedy,K000402,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Standing at Northland Workforce Training Center, Kennedy Highlights How Tariffs on Steel, Aluminum, and Cross-Border Materials are Raising Costs for WNY Manufacturers BUFFALO, N.Y. – Today Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26), joined by local employers and advocates at the Northland Workforce Training Center, warned that the escalating trade war between the United States and Canada is raising costs and creating uncertainty for Western New York’s manufacturing sector, one of the region’s largest employers. Manufacturing is the third-largest industry in the Buffalo Niagara region, employing tens of thousands of workers, and Northland trains the next generation of workers pursuing advanced manufacturing and energy careers. “Manufacturing built this region, and the workers training right here at Northland are the reason Western New York’s manufacturing sector has a future,” said Congressman Kennedy. “But that future is at risk when the materials that cross the border during production get taxed each time. This is a Trump tax on Western New York manufacturers and the workers who rely on them for stable, good paying jobs in an increasingly unaffordable America. Canada is our closest ally and our neighbor, not our enemy, and it’s long past time to end this petty trade war before it costs us more manufacturing jobs.” Western New York’s manufacturers are especially vulnerable to the cross-border trade war because materials used in manufacturing frequently cross the northern border multiple times during production, subjecting them to tariffs at every step. That two-way exposure shows up clearly in New York’s own trade numbers: the state exports $482 million in aluminum and aluminum articles and $254 million in iron and steel products to Canada each year, while importing $1.1 billion in aluminum and $586 million in copper and copper articles from Canada, according to the Consulate General of Canada in New York. Canada supplied roughly 60% of all U.S. unwrought aluminum imports in the first half of 2026[1], while current tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper products can range up to 50% depending on their classification. On September 8th, Canada’s retaliatory tariffs on roughly $20 billion in U.S. goods took effect, covering steel, aluminum, agricultural equipment, appliances, electronics, and other products manufacturers rely on. Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “For more than 200 years, Canada has been our closest ally politically and one of our most important economic partners. Simply put, Canada is not our enemy and President Trump's trade war against our neighbor is hurting Western New York's economy. The free flow of goods across our shared border supports businesses and good-paying jobs throughout our region. Trump’s unnecessary tariffs are raising costs for local manufacturers, creating uncertainty and threatening the jobs families rely on to pay their bills and put food on the table. I join Congressman Kennedy in calling on the administration to end this dangerous trade war it started and restore stability to our relationship with Canada.” ""You cannot build a sound financial plan around uncertainty, and our local manufacturers are no different,” said Erie County Comptroller Kevin Hardwick. “Western New York’s economic relationship with Canada is too important to be undermined by unpredictable trade policies. When our manufacturers struggle to plan, invest, and grow, the consequences are felt throughout Erie County’s economy. Our businesses and workers deserve stability, predictability, and a trade relationship that allows both sides of the border to prosper."" “Western New York’s economy has always been closely connected with our Canadian neighbors,” said New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin. “Our manufacturers should not have to navigate constant uncertainty to do their regular business across the border. When companies cannot reliably plan for their costs and supply chains, it puts jobs, businesses, and people’s livelihoods at risk. Our federal leaders should be helping us strengthen Western New York’s unique relationship with Canada, not undermining it with unpredictable trade policies.” Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Western New York workers are the ones paying the price for the uncertainty and instability created by President Trump’s trade war. The men and women who build, manufacture, ship, and move goods across our region deserve the confidence that comes with stable economic policies and strong cross-border partnerships. Instead, they are facing disruptions to supply chains, rising costs, and growing uncertainty about the future. For generations, Western New York’s economy has been built on the close relationship we have with Canada. When trade policies create unnecessary barriers, it’s our workers, families, and local communities that feel the impact first. I thank Congressman Kennedy for highlighting the challenges facing Western New York workers and for continuing to fight for an economy that puts working families first.” “Western New York manufacturers should not be forced to operate under a cloud of uncertainty created by President Trump’s disastrous trade policies,” said Erie County Legislator Lawrence Dupre. “Our region’s economy is deeply connected to Canada, and continued volatility in our trading relationship can raise costs, disrupt supply chains, and make it harder for businesses to plan, invest, and grow.” “As Chair of the Erie County Legislature’s Economic Development Committee and a member of the Erie County Industrial Development Agency Board, I know that businesses need stability to invest and create jobs,” said Legislator Taisha St. Jean Tard “Our manufacturers should not have to navigate unnecessary uncertainty over the cost and availability of the materials they need to operate. The families who make up our local workforce deserve an economy where businesses can plan for the future, not one where they are left wondering what the next tariff will mean for their jobs, their paychecks, or the cost of living. Buffalo and Erie County have worked too hard to build a strong manufacturing economy to allow needless trade disputes to undermine that progress."" The stakes extend beyond heavy industry. New York and Canada are both key partners in the Northeast Semiconductor Corridor, and a single Quebec facility in Bromont packages and tests more than 80% of all semiconductors manufactured in the United States. This is a stark reminder that the advanced manufacturing careers Northland provides depend on the same cross-border supply chains now caught in the crosshairs of Trump’s tariff fight. Statewide, 816 Canadian-owned companies employ 88,700 New Yorkers, underscoring how deeply integrated the two economies have become. Kennedy will continue pushing the administration to end the trade war with Canada and restore a stable, predictable trading relationship for Western New York’s manufacturers and the tens of thousands of workers whose jobs depend on it. ###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/malliotakis-praises-security-agreement-between-united-states-denmark-and,"Malliotakis Praises Security Agreement Between United States, Denmark, and Greenland",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicole Malliotakis,M000317,malliotakis.house.gov,malliotakis,https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis issued the following statement regarding the security agreement between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland. ""The security agreement signed today will strengthen the United States' military and strategic position in the Arctic while preventing China and Russia from gaining footholds in the region. Greenland’s strategic location and rare-earth resources make it vital to America’s national and economic security and I applaud President Trump for negotiating this critical and consequential deal,"" said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis.",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-xi-white-house-meeting-congressman-pat-ryan-leads-democratic-veterans,"AHEAD OF XI WHITE HOUSE MEETING, CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN LEADS DEMOCRATIC VETERANS IN DEMANDING TRUMP HOLD BEIJING ACCOUNTABLE FOR PROVIDING KEY INTELLIGENCE TO IRAN RESULTING IN U.S. TROOP DEATHS",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Patrick Ryan,R000579,patryan.house.gov,patryan,https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On July 17th, an Iranian missile struck a U.S. base in Jordan killing three servicemembers and injuring four others; Wall Street Journal reporting has confirmed that Iran acquired high-resolution satellite imagery of the base – used to carry out the attack – from Chinese entities Ahead of the September 23rd White House meeting between Trump and Xi, Congressman Ryan is leading his Democratic veteran colleagues in demanding Trump hold Xi accountable for Beijing’s role in U.S. troop deaths Ryan is chair of the Democratic Veterans Caucus, the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in Congress, and served 2 combat tours in Iraq earning him two Bronze Stars; Ryan also sits on the House Armed Services Committee, where he has become the leading voice of opposition to Trump’s war in Iran WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Pat Ryan and 12 fellow Democratic veterans in Congress called on President Trump to publicly condemn China's support for Iranian forces that are killing U.S. troops, ahead of his White House meeting with President Xi Jinping later this month. On July 17th, an Iranian missile struck a U.S. base in Jordan killing three servicemembers and injuring four others. Recent reporting from the Wall Street Journal confirms that Iran acquired high-resolution satellite imagery of the base from Chinese entities. Ahead of the September 23rd White House meeting between Trump and Xi, Ryan is leading his Democratic veteran colleagues in demanding Trump hold Xi accountable for Beijing’s role in U.S. troop deaths, and that he publicly condemn China’s support for IRGC operations. “22 brave Americans have lost their lives in Trump’s war with Iran. We now know that at least three of those deaths directly resulted from President Xi sharing key intelligence about U.S. positions with Iran. Instead of holding China accountable, Trump is rolling out the red carpet,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “I served 27 months in combat in Iraq as an Army Intelligence Officer – I know just how critical and sensitive this information is, and how dangerous it can become in the wrong hands. What’s worse is that Trump knows, too, and hasn’t done a thing to stop it. He said he thinks Xi has been ‘well behaved.’ We disagree. From intelligence sharing to assistance with weapons manufacturing, President Trump must send a strong clear message to Beijing that aiding the IRGC to kill U.S. troops will not be tolerated.” Ryan’s letter to Trump – sent alongside Democratic veteran colleagues including Salud Carbajal, Gilbert Cisneros, Herbert Conaway, Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, Ted Lieu, Seth Moulton, Mike Thompson, Derek Tran, and Eugene Vindman – is included here, and in full below: Dear President Trump, Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit to the White House, we implore you to use your meeting to strongly condemn China’s sharing of satellite information that resulted in the deaths of three U.S. servicemembers in Jordan on July 17th, and demand that President Xi cease any support, cooperation, and information sharing with Iran and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). On July 17th, an Iranian ballistic missile struck sleeping quarters at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, killing three American soldiers and wounding four others. The Wall Street Journal has since reported that Iran acquired high-resolution satellite imagery of the base from Chinese entities both before and after the attack, intelligence that U.S. officials say was directly connected to the strike that killed our troops. Your administration knew this coordination was happening. In May, the State Department sanctioned three China-based firms for supplying Iran with satellite imagery of American and allied military facilities. Senior officials in your administration reportedly spent months warning their Chinese counterparts that companies in their country were arming Iran with the targeting data. The satellite imagery is only one piece of China’s material support to Iran; Chinese firms have supplied key raw materials for the production of Iranian Shaheds, delivered chipmaking equipment to the IRGC, and sold Iran shoulder-launched missile systems, including the weapon that was likely responsible for the downed American F-15E Strike Eagle. Rather than hold Beijing accountable, you downplayed these findings. When asked aboard Air Force One whether you would raise the issue with President Xi, you told reporters, “I think he’s behaved reasonably well."" That is a direct and egregious betrayal of our troops. Our servicemembers are paying the price in blood for this administration's pathetic refusal to confront Beijing. That must end now. Your meeting with President Xi presents an important opportunity to condemn China's role in arming and enabling Iran, and to demand an end to their support. As veterans, we know what it means to send Americans into harm's way, and we know what is owed to them in return: the truth, and a Commander-in-Chief willing to hold accountable anyone and everyone who might do harm to our troops. Ryan is chair of the Democratic Veterans Caucus, the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in Congress, and served 2 combat tours in Iraq earning him two Bronze Stars; Ryan also sits on the House Armed Services Committee, where he has become the leading voice of opposition to Trump’s war in Iran. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/ryan-warren-bicameral-lawmakers-urge-armed-services-committee-chairmen-hold,"RYAN, WARREN, BICAMERAL LAWMAKERS URGE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARINGS ON FATAL PORT SHUAIBA ATTACK FOLLOWING WHISTLEBLOWER REPORTS",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Patrick Ryan,R000579,patryan.house.gov,patryan,https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Warren, Ryan, Bicameral Lawmakers Urge Armed Services Committee Chairmen to Hold Public Hearings on Fatal Port Shuaiba Attack Following Whistleblower Reports New details reveal DoD was unprepared and failed to support service members and their families in the aftermath of Iranian strike “It is critical that Congress gets answers on the failures that led to the attacks, and on the subsequent mistreatment of survivors and families of those killed” “As the administration continues to ask Congress for more resources for this war, we can no longer afford to wait for DoD to deign when they are going to answer these questions.” Text of Letter (PDF) Washington, D.C. — Representative Pat Ryan (D-N.Y.), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, led 19 members of Congress in a letter to Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Armed Services, and Representative Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), Chair of the House Committee on Armed Services, urging them to hold public hearings on the Iranian attack of a U.S. military base in Kuwait that killed six service members and injured more than 30 others. “(A)llegations reported by whistleblowers to Representative Ryan’s and Senator Warren’s offices, have raised even more concerns about the lack of appropriate medical care for service members injured in the strike, the treatment of survivors and their families, and the DoD (Department of Defense) investigation of this attack,” wrote the lawmakers. In April, Representative Ryan and Senator Warren led investigations into reports that Secretary Hegseth failed to take basic steps to protect troops during President Trump’s war in Iran, including during a strike that killed six service members and injured dozens in Kuwait. Following reports revealing that service members were warned of safety issues ahead of the strike, the lawmakers pressed for answers as to why the Trump administration reportedly failed to adequately prepare for attacks on troops in the Middle East. The lawmakers then expanded the investigation in July following additional new reports that DoD failed to provide adequate medical care to service members injured in the strike. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the lawmakers asked for clarity on the reports and DoD’s investigation into the Port Shuaiba strike. DoD has not responded to the lawmakers’ questions and has stonewalled oversight by failing to provide Congress with the results of the Army’s investigations into the Port Shuaiba strike despite repeated requests. These new reports indicate that: “There was absolutely no evacuation plan” in the case of an attack on Port Shuaiba. Injured survivors of the March 1st strike faced delays in receiving appropriate care in the immediate aftermath of the strike. Since then, multiple soldiers injured in the strike have waited months for appointments, with at least one still unable to secure an appointment months later. Families of the fallen were misled about meetings with DoD officials—they were told they had been invited to a ceremony instead of a briefing on the deaths of their loved ones. Some purple hearts were mailed to survivors and families of the fallen, instead of being presented in a ceremony in accordance with Secretary Hegseth’s policy memorandum. The service member originally appointed to conduct the investigation into the strike was a public affairs officer under the chain of command of one of the commanders present during the strike. Additionally, the more senior officer who later took over the investigation was reportedly still a lower rank than the commanders of the 103rd Sustainment Command and the 1st Theater Sustainment Command, who were both present during the strike. The lawmakers urged the chairmen to hold public hearings on the Port Shuaiba attack to answer the questions already posed by Congress and address the additional allegations regarding the treatment of military families, including whether DoD followed appropriate protocols in briefing the families, informing them of the injuries of their loved ones, and awarding medals. “It is unacceptable that President Trump has dragged the U.S. into a reckless war while failing to properly protect our service members from Iranian attacks and to give them the care they need,” wrote the lawmakers. “These are serious allegations and our service members, their families, and the American people deserve answers,” concluded the lawmakers. The full list of signers includes Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.); and Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Maggie Goodlander (D-N.H.), Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Marilyn Strickland (D-Wash.), Derek Tran (D-Calif.), and Eugene Vindman (D-Va.). ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://clarke.house.gov/ccbwg-announces-new-co-chairs-to-lead-caucus-in-120th-congress/,CCBWG ANNOUNCES NEW CO-CHAIRS TO LEAD CAUCUS IN 120TH CONGRESS,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 21, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, Congresswomen Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), announced that Representatives LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Lateefah Simon (CA-12) and Shontel Brown (OH-11) will take up the mantle as new Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls (CCBWG) in the 120th Congress. Despite more than 430 registered Congressional caucuses and Member organizations in 2016, until the creation of the CCBWG, no group on Capitol Hill had sought to make Black women and girls a priority in policy debates. Inspired by the #SheWoke Committee, a collective of seven women leaders with a shared vision of advocacy, equity, and sisterhood; Reps. Clarke, Kelly, and Watson Coleman created the Caucus to advance policies that eliminate barriers and disparities experienced by Black women. With Reps. Kelly and Watson Coleman departing at the conclusion of the 119th Congress, Reps. Brown, McIver and Simon will take their place alongside Rep. Clarke. The Co-Chairs made the announcement at the caucus-hosted panel event titled “Reclaiming the Narrative and Building Economic Power” during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference at the Washington Convention Center. “I’m incredibly appreciative of the work Congresswomen Clarke and Kelly and I have accomplished over the last decade,” said Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman. “It has truly been an honor and a privilege having them as partners as we did our best to help further cultivate a sisterhood here in Congress. Forming this caucus was already critical at the time, but its work and impact is exponentially more important today. And while we’ve made great strides in representation over the years, there is much more to do in order to make our voices heard in every facet of our society and to ensure policies don’t have an unintended negative impact on our communities.” “It feels like the last ten years have flown by, but it is indeed time. I am proud to pass the baton to Congresswomen LaMonica McIver, Lateefah Simon, and Shontel Brown – three outstanding women who have already demonstrated leadership by fighting for the right things and making sure Black women’s voices are heard. I’ll miss the Caucus, but I’m fully confident that we’re leaving it in great hands and that they will take it to the next level. America is primed for a better future when everyone has a seat at the table. Instead of waiting for a spot to open up, my sisters have brought their own chair.” “Over the last ten years, my co-chairs and I, Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman and Yvette Clarke, have put our hearts into building this Caucus from the ground up to highlight both the extraordinary successes and the ongoing plight of Black women across America, ensuring our voices are heard and represented in Congress,” said Representative Robin Kelly. “It has been a true honor to lead alongside them. While leaving this leadership legacy is bittersweet, I am thrilled to welcome Reps. Shontel Brown, LaMonica McIver, and Lateefah Simon as the new co-chairs, alongside Representative Yvette Clarke. They each bring their own powerful vision, passion, and lived experiences to this work, and I know that the mantle we built together is in wonderful hands as they lead our Caucus into its next decade of progress.” “Words cannot fully express my gratitude to my fellow Black Women & Girls Caucus Co-Chairs, Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman and Robin Kelly, for their years of hard work, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to bringing greater attention to the systemic challenges facing Black women and girls and ensuring their voices are heard and represented in Congress,” said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke. “While I am saddened to see my sisters depart, I am excited to welcome Reps. Shontel Brown, LaMonica McIver, and Lateefah Simon as the new Co-Chairs. I look forward to working alongside them as we pick up the mantle and continue fighting for the equity, opportunity, and justice our Black women and girls deserve, especially as this administration continues to target Black women in the workplace, threaten equitable access to healthcare, and undermine the support systems our communities rely on. The work continues, and I look forward to advancing this important mission with our new Co-Chairs.” “Black women and girls play a vital role in shaping politics and policy, bringing invaluable perspectives and experience to the table,” said Representative Lamonica McIver. “Too often, that contribution is undervalued and overlooked. We face barriers to entry, and barriers to success. Under the leadership of Reps. Watson Coleman, Kelly, and Clarke, this caucus has done the important work of amplifying our voices and confronting the systemic inequalities that silence us. I am humbled and excited to carry that legacy forward, and deeply grateful to the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls for what they have built. I am also grateful beyond words to Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, who has been a light to me personally; my co-chairs and I will do all we can to carry on what she has built.” “I am deeply honored to join the Caucus on Black Women and Girls as a Co-Chair next Congress and pick up the mantle from Congresswomen Bonnie Watson Coleman, Yvette Clarke, and Robin Kelly,” said Congresswoman Lateefah Simon. “I started my career working with young girls who were impacted by the criminal justice system, and I know intimately that in every aspect of life from school to the workplace — Black women and girls face unique opportunities and challenges. Congress can and should do more to ensure that our federal policies sees and serves Black women and girls equally, and I look forward to working with my Co-Chairs on this caucus to advance these efforts. Thank you to Congresswomen Watson Coleman, Clarke, and Kelly for the pioneering work you have done to advocate for our girls in Congress — the fight continues.” “I am honored to become the new Co-Chair of the Black Women and Girls Caucus,” said Congresswoman Shontel Brown. “As a Black woman and a Black lawmaker, it is incredibly frustrating to watch the current administration weaponize policies designed to help the very communities they have locked out of the conversation. This Caucus has been critical in countering those efforts by shining a national spotlight on the issues that disproportionately impact our community. But our work has to be about more than defense. We have an opportunity to set a forward-looking agenda that expands opportunity, protects the rights of Black women and girls, and makes sure they have a real voice in shaping the policies that affect their lives. I am so grateful for the leadership of Reps. Clarke, Kelly and Watson Coleman in this Caucus, which has led to the advancement of long overdue legislation that supports Black women. From the Crown Act to the Pursuing Equity in Mental Health Act, the Members have shown that they are fighters for meaningful change for our women and girls. The legacy that they leave behind is one that I am proud to carry forward.” ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-welch-van-hollen-reintroduce-bicameral-bill-to-create-70-renewable-energy-resource-standard-by-2036-speed-u-s-clean-energy-transition/,"CLARKE, WELCH, VAN HOLLEN REINTRODUCE BICAMERAL BILL TO CREATE 70% RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCE STANDARD BY 2036, SPEED U.S. CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 21 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Legislation would establish ambitious energy standard to rapidly reduce emissions and achieve up to 100% renewable energy generation by 2046 WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) joined U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) in reintroducing the bicameral American Renewable Energy Act (AREA), legislation to establish an ambitious 70% renewable energy resource standard by 2036 to drastically reduce emissions, decrease pollution, and promote community resilience. To achieve this goal, AREA prioritizes the development and implementation of solar, wind, and geothermal energy, as well as marine energy, limited hydropower, and methane digesters for smaller farms and wastewater plants. The bill also seeks to ensure the equitable distribution of economic, health, and resiliency benefits of renewable energy deployment by establishing an enforcement mechanism that requires at least 50% of collected funds be spent on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and storage projects in impacted communities. “As we witness the devastating impacts of climate change on communities across our nation, we can no longer afford the luxury of inaction. The choices we make today will determine the world we leave to our children and grandchildren. We have the tools, the technology, and the knowledge to build a cleaner future; we need Congress to act,” said Rep. Clarke. “Investing in renewable energy also means confronting the environmental injustices that have left our nation’s most underserved communities bearing the greatest burden. My legislation puts clean energy technology and innovation to work, reducing emissions, improving air quality and health outcomes, and creating millions of good-paying renewable energy jobs. We cannot leave future generations to pay the price for problems we have the power to solve today.” “Taking immediate, ambitious action to reduce emissions and build a clean energy future is essential to combating the climate crisis. Now is the time to enact a national renewable energy standard. Vermont has long led the nation in the clean energy transition, passing historic legislation just this summer that puts us on the path to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2046,” said Senator Welch. “This bill will help the country follow in Vermont’s footsteps to speed the transition to renewables and build energy independence.” “As Americans face skyrocketing electricity bills and the increasingly harmful impacts of the climate crisis, unleashing the power of clean energy has never been more important. This legislation will help us accelerate bringing cleaner options for consumers online while reducing emissions, lowering our dependence on fossil fuels and volatile global markets, creating new jobs, and cutting costs for working Americans. This is a key step in our fight towards a cleaner, healthier, and more affordable energy future,” said Senator Van Hollen. AREA would require retail electricity suppliers to achieve at least 20% renewable energy generation in 2027, with an increase to 70% by 2036, and up to 100% by 2046. The bill would also require retail electricity suppliers to strengthen energy resilience by contributing an increasing share of their generation through distributed renewable energy, such as rooftop solar, starting with 15% in 2027, with an increase to 20% deployment requirement after five years. Additionally, AREA also stipulates that electricity suppliers must meet their requirements by submitting renewable energy credits or paying an alternative compliance payment that begins at $50/megawatts per hour (MWh) and increases with inflation. Compliance with the bill would be facilitated by the creation of six regional credit trading markets to track retail electricity suppliers’ transition to renewable energy and ensure the benefits of renewable energy development are spread across the country. Further, AREA seeks to ensure the equitable distribution of economic, health, and resiliency benefits and investments created by renewable energy deployment by establishing an enforcement mechanism that requires at least 50% of collected funds to be spent on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and storage projects in impacted communities. The legislation would also require utilities to produce 20% of their energy generation from renewables in impacted communities, reducing the need for polluting fossil fuel power plants in historically marginalized areas. The American Renewable Energy Act is endorsed by the Chesapeake Climate Action Network; Evergreen Action; Sierra Club; Indivisible; and Vote Solar. “The American Renewable Energy Act (AREA) is a major step toward building an electric grid that is cleaner, more affordable, and more just. By setting a strong national renewable electricity standard while ensuring that the benefits of the clean energy transition reach frontline and impacted communities, AREA will help reduce harmful pollution, create good-paying jobs, and protect families from the rising costs of fossil fuels. Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) Action Fund proudly supports AREA and urges Congress to move this bill forward to deliver the clean energy future that American families across the country deserve,” said Quentin Scott, Federal Policy Director, CCAN Action Fund. “Shifting to renewable energy is no longer just an option, it is the necessary next step for the United States to meet the urgency of the climate crisis. The American Renewable Energy Act is the bold legislation we need to meet rising electricity demand, while improving public health, reducing American reliance on fossil fuels, and creating new jobs to supercharge our clean energy economy,” said Lena Moffitt, Executive Director, Evergreen Action. “The transition to clean energy is well underway and the federal government must be a leader in ensuring Americans benefit from the lower energy costs and cleaner air that renewable energy can deliver.” “In the last year, electricity cost increases rapidly outpaced the rate of inflation while toxic and deadly emissions from coal plants spiked significantly,” said Patrick Drupp, ClimatePolicy Director, Sierra Club. “It is more urgent than ever that we invest in affordable, reliable, and clean energy to relieve families from soaring bills and protect our communities from more deadly pollution. Despite Donald Trump’s persistent attacks on clean energy, it is evident that Americans want more clean energy because of how much cleaner, cheaper, and faster it is. We applaud Senator Peter Welch for his work as a steadfast champion of the American Renewable Energy Act and look forward to working together more in the future.” “A strong federal renewable energy standard establishes a clear national floor for clean energy while preserving states’ ability to pursue even more ambitious policies,” said Nathan Phelps, Managing Director, Vote Solar. “This legislation provides the certainty needed to accelerate investment in affordable, reliable clean energy, expanding access to solar and the benefits of the clean energy transition. By complementing state renewable energy standards, a federal RPS ensures that communities across the country can benefit from lower energy costs, cleaner air, and a stronger economy.” Learn more about the American Renewable Energy Act of 2026. Read the full bill text here. ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://gillen.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-gillen-van-drew-and-kean-jr-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-lower,"Reps. Gillen, Van Drew and Kean, Jr. Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Lower Commuting Costs for Working Americans",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Laura Gillen,G000602,gillen.house.gov,gillen,https://gillen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The Lowering Commuting Costs Act would create the first personal tax deduction of more than $4,000 a year for commuting costs WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (D-NY-04) alongside Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02) and Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ-07) introduced the bipartisan Lowering Commuting Costs Act to deliver relief from rising commuting costs for working Americans. This legislation would create a federal income tax deduction, more than $4,000 a year or $340 a month, for personal commuting expenses, including the cost of gas, public transit and tolls such as New York City’s congestion pricing. “Hardworking Long Islanders are forced to pay skyrocketing costs just to get to work, making the cost of living crisis even worse,” said Rep. Gillen. “With the rising price of gas, LIRR fares and the NYC congestion tax, working families are left with no affordable way to get to their jobs. This bipartisan bill will help families save money as they commute to work and contribute to the economy by creating the first-ever tax credit for personal commuting expenses.” “For millions of Americans, just getting to work every day is expensive,” said Rep. Van Drew. “Gas is expensive, tolls are expensive, and for a lot of families, those costs add up to thousands of dollars a year. If businesses can deduct the cost of doing business, working people should be able to deduct what it takes to get to and from their jobs. I am proud to join Congresswoman Gillen on this bill and give some of that money back to the people who earn it.” ""Commuting costs strain hardworking New Jerseyans' bottom lines,"" said Rep. Kean, Jr. ""The Lowering Commuting Costs Act would create a new deduction for taxpayers to save thousands of dollars of costs incurred when commuting, whether on train fare, on congestion pricing tolls, and more. I am proud to co-lead this bill to help families keep more of their hard-earned money and reduce the monetary strain of daily commutes."" “New York City Firefighters are struggling with high costs as it is, on top of paying thousands a year just commuting to their stations to save lives,” said Bobby Eustace, President, Uniformed Firefighters Association. “Because they have to carry heavy gear to work every day, taking public transit to work isn't realistic. Rising gas prices and paying the daily congestion tax have been a massive financial burden. We really appreciate Congresswoman Gillen and her colleagues stepping up for our members and trying to make our daily commutes more affordable.” The IRS currently allows taxpayers to deduct the business use of a car, including driving between work locations and running business errands, but it does not allow a federal income tax deduction for personal commuting expenses. The Lowering Commuting Costs Act would help relieve rising commuting costs by establishing an above-the-line tax deduction of more than $4,000 a year ($340 a month) for commuting costs, including the cost of gas, public transit, parking and tolls such as New York City’s congestion pricing. The tax credit would also stack with pre-tax commuter “fringe” benefits afforded by employers. Rep. Gillen has consistently advocated for policies that lower costs and provide tax relief for Long Island families. Since taking office, she has led efforts to restore the full State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, including a measure to eliminate the SALT cap. She also introduced bipartisan legislation to lower Long Islanders’ taxes by adjusting their federal tax brackets to reflect the local cost of living. Rep. Gillen also recently led bipartisan legislation to help lower car insurance rates by cracking down on staged “crash for cash” schemes. The full bill text can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://mannion.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-john-mannion-cosponsors-keep-lights-local-act-prohibit-foreign,Representative John Mannion Cosponsors the ‘Keep the Lights Local Act’ to Prohibit Foreign Ownership of American Utilities and Keep Ratepayer Dollars Invested at Home,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,John W. Mannion,M001231,mannion.house.gov,mannion,https://mannion.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SYRACUSE, NY - Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today announced that he is cosponsoring H.R. 5487, the Keep the Lights Local Act, legislation to prohibit foreign ownership of American public utilities. The bill would help protect ratepayers, strengthen accountability, and keep more of the money families pay through their monthly utility bills invested in American communities instead of supporting profits overseas. Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) said, “Families in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley are paying too much to power their homes and businesses, and they shouldn’t be forced to subsidize the profits of foreign corporations. The Keep the Lights Local Act will help lower costs and keep more ratepayer dollars here at home - supporting grid reliability, infrastructure improvements, and local workers. Keeping control of energy production and transmission is essential to American energy and national security. I’ll keep fighting for affordable, reliable energy and real accountability for ratepayers.” Under current federal law, foreign corporations and foreign governments are not prohibited from owning public utility holding companies in the United States. The Keep the Lights Local Act would close that gap by barring foreign corporations and governments from owning American public utility holding companies. The legislation was introduced by Representative Josh Riley (NY-19). Mannion has made energy affordability and ratepayer protection a priority in Congress. He recently voted for the Ratepayer Protection Act to prevent data centers from shifting their electricity costs to families and small businesses, cosponsored legislation to end special federal tax breaks for data centers, and has called for data centers to mitigate impacts on local air quality, drinking water and water supplies.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases/suozzi-be-recognized-first-democratic-member-congress-be-awarded-us-chambers,Suozzi To Be Recognized as First Democratic Member of Congress To Be Awarded U.S. Chamber’s “Advocate for American Business” Award,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Thomas R. Suozzi,S001201,suozzi.house.gov,suozzi,https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GLEN COVE, NY — Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03) was recognized today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with its “Advocate for American Business” Award during a stop of the Chamber’s national Free Enterprise Express Opportunity Tour at Standard Bots in Glen Cove. U.S. Chamber Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley presented Suozzi with the award, recognizing his bipartisan, commonsense approach to governing, his leadership as Democratic Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, and his work on affordability, immigration reform, and other issues affecting American families and businesses. Suozzi is the first Democratic Member of Congress to receive the award during the Chamber’s national Opportunity Tour. “The U.S. Chamber is proud to recognize Rep. Tom Suozzi as the first Democratic Member of Congress to receive this award on the Free Enterprise Bus Tour. Rep. Suozzi has been a steadfast defender of free market capitalism and his approach to policy prioritizes real solutions for American families and businesses. We look forward to continuing to work with him to advance free enterprise policies that allow businesses, workers, and communities to grow and thrive,” said Bradley. “I want to thank the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for this recognition and for bringing the Free Enterprise Express here to Glen Cove,” said Suozzi. I’ve always believed that the best way to grow our economy is to give people the opportunity to work hard, build something, create jobs, and succeed. Companies like Standard Bots are doing exactly that right here on Long Island. We need to work together — Democrats and Republicans — to bring down costs, support our small and growing businesses, and create an environment where American innovation can thrive. That’s how we grow our economy, create opportunity, and keep the American Dream alive for the next generation.” The event was held at Standard Bots, a growing Glen Cove company that designs and assembles industrial robotic arms in the United States. The company provided a local example of the entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation the Chamber’s nationwide tour is seeking to highlight. “We’re proud to welcome Congressman Suozzi and the U.S. Chamber’s Free Enterprise Express to Standard Bots here in Glen Cove,” said Evan Beard, Co-Founder and CEO of Standard Bots. “We believe America can and should lead the world in advanced manufacturing and robotics. By encouraging innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship, we can build many more things in America, create good jobs, and compete globally.” The Chamber also cited Suozzi’s leadership of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, his five-point affordability plan, his leadership on the Promise to America, and his efforts to advance bipartisan immigration reform. The Free Enterprise Express Opportunity Tour is traveling across the country for six weeks, visiting 20 states and holding more than 50 events highlighting local businesses, employers, workers, and community leaders. The tour is designed to showcase the role of entrepreneurship, innovation, competition, and economic growth in creating jobs and opportunity. The tour is part of the U.S. Chamber’s New Fight for Free Enterprise, a multi-year initiative to promote free enterprise and highlight businesses and entrepreneurs in communities across the country. ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4662,Tonko Demands Answers on Buffalo Detention Center Expansion,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — In a follow-up to his August visit to the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, U.S. Congressman Paul D. Tonko today is demanding answers and transparency on facility operations, namely on the facility expansion announced earlier this year. The first letter — sent to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin, as well as the Acting Director for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Acting Field Director for the Buffalo facility — requests answers on facility practices as well as the planned construction of the new 100-bed facility. The second letter — sent to Akima Infrastructure Protection, LLC, the construction company that received the federal contract for overseeing the facility expansion — asks for details on the construction and other information. Federal records show that ICE awarded the contract for construction just one day after public notice, a clear violation of the statutorily required minimum of 15 days of public notice for federal contracts. “In July 2026, ICE announced that it would be constructing a 100-bed facility to expand the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility,” the first letter reads. “ICE intends to use taxpayer dollars for this expansion and says that it will operate “in accordance with applicable National Detention Standards,” yet ICE has failed to answer basic questions about what this expansion might look like, estimated construction timelines, and who would be housed in such an expansion. During my visit to the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility, I followed up for further detail on these questions and was extremely disappointed by the lack of transparency and detail in the responses I received.” The letter continues, “This expansion is especially concerning given the conditions that have been alleged by current and former detainees, including many of my constituents, at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility. Detainees have alleged overcrowding, issues with accessing medical care in a timely fashion, and excessive use of solitary confinement as punishment.” “As an agency, your practices and standards, as well as the behavior and actions of your employees, have been appalling. For the safety of our communities and my constituents, I demand that you take immediate action to correct the horrific and dehumanizing behavior that your employees have exhibited and pause the plans for this expansion.” The full letter to Secretary Markwayne Mullin, Acting Director Venturella, and Acting Director Kurzdorfer can be read HERE and below. The letter to Akima Infrastructure Protection President, Laura Mitchell can be read HERE. Dear Secretary Mullin, Acting Director Venturella, and Acting Director Kurzdorfer: I am writing today to follow up after my visit to the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia, New York, on August 3, 2026. My visit to this facility came amid increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity and arrests in New York’s Capital Region, as well as across the country, and after I was illegally denied entry to this same facility in August 2025. In July 2026, ICE announced that it would be constructing a 100-bed facility to expand the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility. ICE intends to use taxpayer dollars for this expansion and says that it will operate “in accordance with applicable National Detention Standards,” yet ICE has failed to answer basic questions about what this expansion might look like, estimated construction timelines, and who would be housed in such an expansion. During my visit to the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility, I followed up for further detail on these questions and was extremely disappointed by the lack of transparency and detail in the responses I received. Now, federal records show that after just a single day of public notice, ICE awarded a contract for the construction and operation of the expansion of this facility, a decision that was made in clear violation of the statutorily required minimum of 15 days of public notice for federal contracts. I am following up to demand proper and substantive responses to my questions below and requesting that you send my office all records related to the decision to construct the facility, including official memos, cost estimates, and communications with any contractors. 1. What is the full construction timeline for this expansion? 2. Have you completed the environmental review for this planned expansion? 3. What does “hard-sided” mean? Will these structures be able to safely house detainees during a Buffalo winter? If yes, provide relevant data to back this assertion. Does the facility have an emergency winterization plan? 4. Will the facility be for temporary or permanent lodging of detained individuals? What is the expected sleeping arrangement? Will detainees be provided individual sleeping quarters? Will the bathrooms in the facility have running water? Will this facility be equipped with air conditioning and heating? 5. Does ICE plan to detain any women or children at the new facility? Do you expect to detain members of the same family at this facility? Do you expect that individuals detained in this facility will interact with individuals detained in the main facility? 6. Please provide all information that allowed you to make the determination that “only Akima Infrastructure Protection, LLC can meet the requirement in the required timeframe without unacceptable risk to ERO operations.” Are the costs of the construction and operation of this expansion included in Akima Infrastructure Protection, LLC’s existing contract with ICE? Will you be hiring additional staff for this facility? Will prior contracts for the original facility, including those for security, health, and food preparation, be in force for this new facility? 7. What does your organization determine to be an “unacceptable risk to ERO operations?” Please provide all relevant materials that led you to make this determination. This expansion is especially concerning given the conditions that have been alleged by current and former detainees, including many of my constituents, at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility. Detainees have alleged overcrowding, issues with accessing medical care in a timely fashion, and excessive use of solitary confinement as punishment. My own constituents have also alleged overcrowding at this facility, including being forced to sleep on the floor, and during my visit I witnessed staff wheeling additional cots inside the facility. I was also particularly struck that you were shackling a detainee at the wrists and ankles even though he was designated as a non-criminal and non-violent detainee, and upon further inquiry was told that this behavior was standard practice for detainees when leaving the facility. This is deeply disturbing and dehumanizing behavior, and I am angered that it is taking place under the federal government’s watch. 8. How often has solitary confinement been utilized at this facility? Please provide the documented reasons for and length of each placement, including whether an individual’s classification (non-criminal, criminal/non-violent, violent). 9. Your most recent publicly available data shows that you are detaining 699 people in the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility, which is over your 650-bed capacity. However, your publicly shared data has not been updated in months. How many people are currently detained in Batavia? Do you track the daily population of this facility? How many times in the past six months has this facility been over capacity? How many individuals are sleeping on cots on any given night? Are individuals ever forced to sleep on the floor? Please provide all data for the population of this facility during fiscal year 2026. 10. Do you ever move large numbers of detainees in and out of the facility at a time? Did you move more than 100 detainees out of the facility in advance of my visit? If so, where were those 100 detainees moved during my visit? 11. During fiscal years 2024 and 2025, detention statistics for this facility were updated approximately 22 times. As of September 4, 2026, they have been updated approximately 8 times in fiscal year 2026. Why have these numbers not been updated more regularly over the past fiscal year? 12. Is it standard practice to shackle non-criminal, non-violent detainees at the wrists and ankles when they are leaving the facility? Please provide the relevant statute that directs this behavior. As an agency, your practices and standards, as well as the behavior and actions of your employees, have been appalling. For the safety of our communities and my constituents, I demand that you take immediate action to correct the horrific and dehumanizing behavior that your employees have exhibited and pause the plans for this expansion. Your agency is operating with little regard for human life and dignity, and you have repeatedly refused to cooperate with lawful Congressional oversight. As an agency, you report that at least 22 people have died while detained in facilities across the United States this year, which is an unprecedented and horrifying increase. At the same time, my colleagues and I have serious concerns regarding the reliability and accuracy of your data on deaths in custody. Your recent actions, coupled with my visit to the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility have raised serious questions, and I demand that you respond with the transparency the American people require before September 30, 2026. Sincerely, Paul D. Tonko",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases/suozzi-recognized-first-democratic-member-congress-be-awarded-us-chambers,Suozzi Recognized as First Democratic Member of Congress To Be Awarded U.S. Chamber’s “Advocate for American Business” Award,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Thomas R. Suozzi,S001201,suozzi.house.gov,suozzi,https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GLEN COVE, NY — Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03) was recognized today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with its “Advocate for American Business” Award during a stop of the Chamber’s national Free Enterprise Express Opportunity Tour at Standard Bots in Glen Cove. U.S. Chamber Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley presented Suozzi with the award, recognizing his bipartisan, commonsense approach to governing, his leadership as Democratic Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, and his work on affordability, immigration reform, and other issues affecting American families and businesses. Suozzi is the first Democratic Member of Congress to receive the award during the Chamber’s national Opportunity Tour. “The U.S. Chamber is proud to recognize Rep. Tom Suozzi as the first Democratic Member of Congress to receive this award on the Free Enterprise Bus Tour. Rep. Suozzi has been a steadfast defender of free market capitalism and his approach to policy prioritizes real solutions for American families and businesses. We look forward to continuing to work with him to advance free enterprise policies that allow businesses, workers, and communities to grow and thrive,” said Bradley. “I want to thank the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for this recognition and for bringing the Free Enterprise Express here to Glen Cove,” said Suozzi. I’ve always believed that the best way to grow our economy is to give people the opportunity to work hard, build something, create jobs, and succeed. Companies like Standard Bots are doing exactly that right here on Long Island. We need to work together — Democrats and Republicans — to bring down costs, support our small and growing businesses, and create an environment where American innovation can thrive. That’s how we grow our economy, create opportunity, and keep the American Dream alive for the next generation.” The event was held at Standard Bots, a growing Glen Cove company that designs and assembles industrial robotic arms in the United States. The company provided a local example of the entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation the Chamber’s nationwide tour is seeking to highlight. “We’re proud to welcome Congressman Suozzi and the U.S. Chamber’s Free Enterprise Express to Standard Bots here in Glen Cove,” said Evan Beard, Co-Founder and CEO of Standard Bots. “We believe America can and should lead the world in advanced manufacturing and robotics. By encouraging innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship, we can build many more things in America, create good jobs, and compete globally.” The Chamber also cited Suozzi’s leadership of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, his five-point affordability plan, his leadership on the Promise to America, and his efforts to advance bipartisan immigration reform. The Free Enterprise Express Opportunity Tour is traveling across the country for six weeks, visiting 20 states and holding more than 50 events highlighting local businesses, employers, workers, and community leaders. The tour is designed to showcase the role of entrepreneurship, innovation, competition, and economic growth in creating jobs and opportunity. The tour is part of the U.S. Chamber’s New Fight for Free Enterprise, a multi-year initiative to promote free enterprise and highlight businesses and entrepreneurs in communities across the country. ###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://riley.house.gov/2026/09/19/riley-helps-pass-bipartisan-bill-to-hold-data-centers-accountable-lower-utility-bills-for-upstate-new-yorkers/,"RILEY HELPS PASS BIPARTISAN BILL TO HOLD DATA CENTERS ACCOUNTABLE, LOWER UTILITY BILLS FOR UPSTATE NEW YORKERS",2026-09-19,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Josh Riley,R000622,riley.house.gov,riley,https://riley.house.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — With the support of Representative Josh Riley (NY-19), the U.S. House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act, legislation to stop utilities from charging families and small businesses for the grid upgrades needed to power massive data centers, and make the tech companies driving that demand pay instead. “Upstate New Yorkers shouldn’t be forced to foot the bill for massive data centers that none of us asked for,” said Riley. “If Big Tech wants to build in our communities, they can pay their own way. Our power bills are already way too high – this legislation makes sure that data centers don’t drive them even higher.” Massive data center projects, which demand huge amounts of electricity, are moving ahead across Upstate New York and the country. Serving them requires costly grid upgrades and under current rules utility companies can pass those costs on to everyday ratepayers instead of the companies driving the demand. In the first half of 2025 alone, utilities across the country requested more than $29 billion in electricity rate increases – nearly double what they sought the year before – as they scramble to make infrastructure upgrades and meet increased need. The Ratepayer Protection Act requires state utility regulators to establish new rules ensuring that families and small businesses do not face rate hikes to subsidize new power generation, transmission lines, and other upgrades needed to serve large-load customers like data centers. Instead, the large tech companies building these projects will be responsible for covering the full energy and infrastructure costs associated with them. The vote builds on Riley’s own legislation, the FAIR Data Act, which stops data center projects from driving up energy bills for Upstate New Yorkers. Riley’s has led the fight stand up to the utility monopolies and lower costs: February 13, 2025 — Introduced the Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act (H.R. 1355) to help families reduce energy usage and lower monthly utility bills September 18, 2025 — Introduced the Keep the Lights Local Act (H.R. 5487) to ban foreign corporations and governments from owning American utility companies December 10, 2025 — Introduced the No Bonuses for Utility Executives Act (H.R. 6590) to prohibit utility company executives from receiving bonuses when they raise rates faster than inflation. April 17, 2026 — Introduced the No Taxes on Utility Bills Act (H.R. 8350) to allow Upstate New Yorkers to to allow taxpayers to deduct taxes and state-mandated surcharges included on their gas and electric utility bills. April 29, 2026 — Introduced the Lowering Utility Bills Act (H.R. 8568) to crack down on utility companies overcharging customers. July 13, 2026 — Introduced the FAIR Data Act (H.R. 9655) to stop data center projects from driving up energy bills for Upstate New York families and small businesses. September 4, 2026 — Smart Meter Data Privacy Protection Act (H.R. 10284) to ban utility companies from selling Upstate New Yorkers’ private data and crack down on the misuse of personal information collected through smart meters. 2025–2026 — Served as an intervener in the Central Hudson and NYSEG rate cases, where he participated in proceedings and cross-examined utility companies on behalf of ratepayers. You can read the text of the Ratepayer Protection Act HERE. ###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/18/leader-jeffries-statement-on-the-rise-of-anti-south-asian-hate/,LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON THE RISE OF ANTI-SOUTH ASIAN HATE,2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement: The disturbing rise of targeted, vile and bigoted hate against our South Asian communities shocks the conscience. Just this week, a Sikh driver in Wyoming was stabbed 17 times after Donald Trump’s out-of-control Department of Homeland Security posted racist propaganda with the message “Get off our roads, you don’t know how to drive, Mr. Singh.” Bo French, a Republican statewide Texas candidate, peddled vile racism towards students celebrating at a University of Texas football game. Right-wing Republicans are repeatedly using derogatory slurs in a casual manner. Meanwhile, most Republicans are standing by while the GOP traffics in hateful behavior and demeaning rhetoric targeting members of the South Asian community. It is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American. Our greatness as a nation is connected to the fact that we are a gorgeous mosaic of people from all over the world who come to this country, work hard and pursue the American dream. House Democrats will continue to confront racism and xenophobia whenever and wherever it rears its ugly head. It’s time for Republicans to join us. ###",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-and-house-intelligence-chairman-crawford-host-house,Congresswoman Tenney and House Intelligence Chairman Crawford Host House Intelligence SCALE UP Event in Syracuse on CCP Counterintelligence Threats,2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Syracuse, N.Y. — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and Committee Chairman Rick Crawford (AR-01) hosted federal, state, and private sector partners at Hancock Air National Guard Base in Syracuse for a SCALE UP event examining counterintelligence threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party in Upstate New York and across the United States. The SCALE UP event brought the House Intelligence Committee's work to Upstate New York for classified and unclassified discussions on how the CCP targets our government, critical infrastructure, businesses, agriculture, educational institutions, and other sectors. Tenney and Chairman Crawford heard from National Counterintelligence and Security Center Director Wes Street and senior leaders from the FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), Army Counterintelligence Command (ACIC), Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI), and Department of Homeland Security. The discussion focused on improving cooperation among federal, state, and local officials and private sector partners to better detect, deter, and disrupt foreign intelligence activities in Upstate New York and throughout the country. “Protecting our national security starts with defending our communities here at home,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “The Chinese Communist Party is targeting American industry, research, and critical infrastructure to undermine our economic strength and threaten our way of life. These operations go beyond stealing information. The CCP is seeking access to the systems Americans depend on so it can disrupt essential services and exploit that access in a crisis. This roundtable brings my work on the House Intelligence Committee home to Upstate New York, connecting federal experts with local leaders to confront these threats. I thank Chairman Crawford for his leadership as we work to hold the CCP accountable and put the safety and security of Americans first.” ""In today's age, an attack on our nation might not come by aerial bombing campaigns. It might not come with fiery assaults on civilian or military infrastructure, inflicting mass causalities,"" said Chairman Crawford. ""A new kind of attack may come quickly and quietly with debilitating consequences for the security and prosperity of our country. I applaud Rep. Tenney for her steadfast commitment to ensuring New Yorkers, and all Americans, understand the growing counterintelligence threat we continue to face both at home and abroad. We cannot risk waiting for the counterintelligence version of September 11th to make the reforms needed to strategically disable, disrupt, and neutralize foreign intelligence entities' activities against the United States.”",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4658,"Tonko, Kiggans Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize Pharmacy Workforce Suicide Awareness Day",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Representatives Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) and Jen Kiggans (VA-2) announced the introduction of a bipartisan resolution designating September 20th as “Pharmacy Workforce Suicide Awareness Day” and recognizing the need to reduce mental health stigma and improve access to mental health services. Across the United States, nearly 800,000 pharmacists and pharmacy technicians provide essential care and medication services to patients across community pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. The pharmacy workforce experiences significant levels of occupational fatigue given systemic staffing shortages, administrative hurdles, and workplace threats and violence. Suicide rates amongst pharmacists are 20 per 100,000, which is greater than the general population of 12 per 100,000. “Our pharmacists work hard each day to ensure we are delivered the treatment and care we need,” Congressman Tonko said. “They deserve to have their needs met, and that must include addressing any mental health challenges they may experience. I’m proud to be joined by Congresswoman Kiggans to designate September 20th National Pharmacy Workforce Suicide Awareness Day. I’ll keep pushing to ensure our healthcare workforce receives the same support, dedication, and compassion that they provide to their patients.” “The men and women working in the healthcare space are tasked with long and trying schedules, and pharmacists are no exception. As a geriatric nurse practitioner, I understand how important it is to ensure healthcare professionals have the mental and emotional support they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Rep. Kiggans. With over 30% of the pharmacy workforce experiencing significant levels of distress leading to depression, anxiety, and fatigue, I’m proud to join Congressman Tonko in recognizing September 20th as National Pharmacy Workforce Suicide Awareness Day. Our pharmacists dedicate their careers to helping others and we have a responsibility to make sure they have the resources they need to care for themselves.” “APhA is deeply grateful to Reps. Tonko and Kiggans for introducing this resolution and elevating the mental health and well-being of the pharmacy workforce,” said Michael Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA, FNAP, FFIP, executive vice president and CEO of APhA. “Every death by suicide is a heartbreaking loss to families, colleagues, patients, and our profession. This resolution challenges all of us to look more broadly at the conditions contributing to burnout, psychological distress, and isolation. APhA is committed to working with congress and our partners across pharmacy to create environments where pharmacists and pharmacy professionals feel supported and can thrive.” ""We are grateful for the leadership of Reps. Tonko and Kiggans for introducing this resolution. Today marks an important step in broadening awareness of the mental health needs and prevalence of death by suicide within our profession. ASHP is proud to partner with members of Congress and other pharmacy organizations in prioritizing the well-being of our workforce,” said Samuel V. Calabrese, MBA, RPh, CPEL, FASHP, Executive Vice President and CEO of ASHP The bill is endorsed by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) & American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). Representatives Hayley Stevens (MI-11), Buddy Carter (GA-1), Jonathan Jackson (IL-1), Diana Harshbarger (TN-1), Seth Moulton (MA-6), and Don Bacon (NE-2) joined the Congressman as original cosponsors.",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://gillen.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gillen-celebrates-passage-125-million-federal-funding-authorization-long,Rep. Gillen Celebrates Passage of $125 Million in Federal Funding Authorization for Long Island Out of House in Bipartisan Water Resources Infrastructure Package,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Laura Gillen,G000602,gillen.house.gov,gillen,https://gillen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Yesterday, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) celebrated the passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act of 2026 out of the House of Representatives, which included $125 million she secured for Long Island water infrastructure project authorizations. The two-year water resources infrastructure investments package previously passed unanimously out of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The package includes several of Rep. Gillen’s priorities, such as bolstering flood risk management, storm damage prevention and coastal restoration in communities across New York’s 4th Congressional District. “I am thrilled that this bipartisan water infrastructure package has passed the House with real investments for Long Island,” said Rep. Gillen. “Through my work on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I fought to secure $125 million for critical water infrastructure projects across our communities. That includes replacing lead pipes in Garden City, upgrading aging water mains in Long Beach and strengthening stormwater pumps in Freeport. These investments will protect our drinking water, strengthen our infrastructure and help keep Long Islanders safe for generations to come.” In the package, Rep. Gillen secured funding authorization for multiple environmental infrastructure efforts on Long Island. The bill authorizes funding but does not appropriate it; the House Appropriations Committee provides actual funding. Authorization of $11 million for the Village of Garden City to replace legacy lead water service lines with new non-lead water service lines. Authorization of $25 million for the City of Long Beach to make essential upgrades to its aging water main infrastructure, to ensure that the public has access to safe, clean, reliable drinking water. Authorization of $3.3 million for the Village of Freeport to support the installation of additional stormwater pumping stations to mitigate chronic tidal flooding and storm-related inundation that regularly impacts residential neighborhoods, roadways and critical infrastructure. Authorization of $130,000 to help mitigate flooding on Rock Hall Road, near Lawrence Avenue. Authorization of $65.57 million for water and wastewater infrastructure in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Authorization of $20 million for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management, water reclamation and environmental restoration in Nassau County. Rep. Gillen also advanced the Coastal Infrastructure Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation she introduced with Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02), that directs the Secretary of the Army to research shoreline stabilization and erosion-control technology to prevent coastal erosion. Rep. Gillen additionally secured the following project and study priorities in the legislation. These projects can now proceed at the direction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or through the appropriations process. Expediting the Nassau County Back Bays Coastal Storm Risk Management Project Study to protect Nassau County's South Shore from flooding. Authorization of proposed feasibility study for the Reynolds Channel project in the Village of Atlantic Beach to reduce coastal flooding impacts to public street ends, drainage outfalls, open spaces and marine rescue facilities through bulkhead replacement and shoreline stabilization. Authorization of proposed feasibility study for the dredging of Bannister Bay in the Village of Lawrence. Authorization of proposed feasibility study for ecosystem restoration, flood risk management, coastal storm risk management and navigation off the South Shore of Long Island. Authorization to expedite a project in the City of Long Beach to remove and replace seven beach groins critically needed to stabilize the beach, reduce damage from future storms and reduce the need for future sand renourishment. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/17/leader-jeffries-the-american-people-have-had-enough-of-donald-trump-and-the-failed-republican-economy/,LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE AMERICAN PEOPLE HAVE HAD ENOUGH OF DONALD TRUMP AND THE FAILED REPUBLICAN ECONOMY”,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press availability with Whip Katherine Clark and Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar, where he emphasized that ahead of the midterm elections, House Democrats are committed to lowering the high cost of living, making healthcare affordable and holding the crooks accountable who have been ripping off the American people. LEADER JEFFRIES: Donald Trump and Republicans promised a Golden Age in America. They’ve failed. They’ve delivered a Rotten Age. The economy is not going in the right direction. It is failing everyday Americans. Gas prices are up, grocery prices are up, interest rates are up, housing costs are up and health insurance premiums are up. The cost of living is out of control. America is way too expensive. Far too many people—millions of everyday Americans—they’re working hard, they’re playing by the rules, but they can’t thrive and they can barely survive. The American people have had enough of Donald Trump and the failed Republican economy. And as House Democrats, we’ll continue to make clear that we’re fighting for an affordable America and we’re committed to bringing down the high price of groceries, bringing down the high price of gas, bringing down the high price of housing, making healthcare affordable for every single American and at the same time, making it clear that there’s a cost to the American people of the out-of-control corruption that has been visited upon them by Donald Trump and MAGA extremists. Which is why our commitment to the American people, when it comes to corruption, is that if folks have been stealing from the American people, shortchanging the American people or screwing over the American people, we’re going to hold the crooks accountable beginning on day one. What are Republicans doing in the face of the failed economy and the cost-of-living crisis and the fact that we have an existential situation that has to be dealt with with respect to AI safety? What are Republicans doing? They’re running away from their responsibilities here on Capitol Hill, and they’re running away from their constituents at home because they’ve been ordered by Mike Johnson and Steve Scalise not to hold any town hall meetings, not to engage with their constituents. They continue to, at best, bury their heads in the sand while Rome is burning. That’s a disgrace. And that’s why I believe the American people are going to fire them in November.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6482,Lawler Demands Hochul and NYPA Release the Hidden Cost of Electricity Discounts for Rockland Data Centers,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Hochul's Power Authority admits it is cutting power bills for three Orangeburg data centers but refuses to tell the public what those discounts cost New York ratepayers. Pearl River, N.Y. – 9/17/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler called on Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York Power Authority to immediately disclose the full value of the electricity discounts the state is giving to data centers in Rockland County, after The Journal News reported that the authority is refusing to say how much the subsidies are worth or what rate the data centers are paying. According to the report, three of the four data centers in the Orangeburg section of Orangetown are receiving discounted hydropower through the authority's ReCharge program. NYPA officials told LoHud they cannot disclose how much those discounts save operators, or even what rate a given data center is paying, calling the information ""proprietary and protected under contract.” “Rockland families have watched their electric bills climb year after year, and now we learn that Kathy Hochul's Power Authority has been handing discounted power to data centers while refusing to tell the people footing the bill what it costs them,” said Congressman Lawler. “This is public power, sold by a public authority whose board is appointed by the Governor. The public has every right to know what it is worth and who is getting it. Governor Hochul and NYPA need to release the numbers, and they need to do it now.” “The Governor imposed a moratorium on data centers and promised to go after their tax breaks, and the whole time her own Power Authority has been quietly cutting their electric bills and hiding the details behind confidentiality agreements,” Lawler continued. “Albany is doing what Albany always does: making decisions behind closed doors and sending the bill to hard-working Hudson Valley families. If the Governor wants to be taken seriously on data centers, she can start by telling the truth about what her own agency is giving them.” Lawler said the authority should, at a minimum, publish the total annual cost of ReCharge discounts to New York ratepayers and the average subsidy per participant. The good-government group Reinvent Albany has argued that the authority could release both figures without exposing any single company's power usage, and that it has refused to do so even in response to public records requests. State records show 858 entities are enrolled in ReCharge. Lawler has spent this year working across the aisle on artificial intelligence legislation. In January, he introduced the CHAT Act to protect children from harmful AI companion chatbots. In February, he and Congressman Josh Gottheimer introduced the AI Workforce Training Act, which creates a tax credit for businesses that train their workers to use AI. In March, he joined Representatives Sara Jacobs and Don Beyer on the AI Foundation Model Transparency Act, which would require the companies building the most powerful AI models to disclose how they are trained. This month, he and Gottheimer introduced the Stop Rogue AI Act, which directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology to set national standards for tracking and controlling AI agents used by the federal government and its contractors. “I have worked all year with Democrats and Republicans on AI legislation that protects kids from AI chatbots and requires transparency from the companies building these systems,” Lawler said. “But transparency has to apply to government too. If New York is going to use public power to attract data centers, it should be able to tell the public what the deal is and what taxpayers get in return.” Lawler has also been one of the loudest voices in Congress against the state policies driving up energy costs in the Hudson Valley. New York electricity prices have risen 58 percent since 2019, against 36 percent nationally, and NYSERDA projects the state's climate law will cost households more than $4,000 a year. Lawler has called for reopening the Indian Point nuclear plant, expanding natural gas pipeline capacity, and repealing the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act as part of an all-of-the-above energy strategy. “The reason a data center needs a secret discount to operate in New York is that Albany has made electricity unaffordable for everyone. Albany shut down Indian Point, spent years blocking natural gas pipelines, and passed a climate law that is pricing families out of their own homes,” Lawler concluded. “Now the only way to get anyone to build here is a special deal off the top, paid for by every other ratepayer. Fix the underlying problem. Bring Indian Point back, build the pipelines, put reliable power back on the grid, and prices come down for everyone.” Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6483,"Lawler, Gottheimer Push for Bipartisan AI Safeguards at Capitol Hill Press Conference",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/17/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) held a bipartisan press conference to highlight their Stop Rogue AI Act, legislation that would direct the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop national standards, guidelines, and best practices for discovering, verifying, monitoring, and controlling AI agents. WATCH: LAWLER, GOTTHEIMER PUSH FOR BIPARTISAN AI SAFEGUARDS AT CAPITOL HILL PRESS CONFERENCE The legislation comes as AI agents become increasingly capable of acting autonomously, with recent incidents highlighting concerns about AI systems accessing external networks and taking actions beyond their intended scope. “This isn’t about stopping AI or stifling innovation. It is about making sure we can safely deploy AI. A pause is not a safeguard. Some states have put a moratorium on the infrastructure that powers this technology. That does not invent a kill switch. It does not inventory the agents already on a hospital network or a utility system,” said Congressman Lawler. “If the United States taps the brakes while others floor it, we do not get safer AI. We get someone else’s AI. We are not going to regulate ourselves into second place,” concluded Congressman Lawler. “Our bill gives basically a driver’s license to every AI agent operating in this country. It tells NIST, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, get in a room and set standards so organizations can find every agent on their network, verify who built it, who’s running it, watch it in real time for anything suspicious, and cut off its access the second something looks wrong. That’s what putting people back in the driver’s seat looks like,” said Congressman Gottheimer. The bill would also require federal agencies and contractors to incorporate these safeguards into how they procure and deploy AI, with NIST and CISA coordinating with existing cybersecurity guidance. Reps. Lawler and Gottheimer have also worked together on a broader bipartisan AI agenda focused on preparing American workers for an AI-driven economy, protecting consumers, strengthening national security, and maintaining American technological leadership. These include: H.R. 7576, the AI Workforce Training Act, which provides businesses with a tax credit for qualifying AI workforce training. H.R. 9318, the National Security Commission Quantum Computing Act, which establishes an independent commission to evaluate advancements in quantum computing and make recommendations for maintaining U.S. technological leadership. H.R. 9585, the Advancing American Quantum Leadership Act, which expands the definition of quantum technology under the Export-Import Bank’s China and Transformational Exports Program. B-ROLL: Video content from today can be found HERE. PHOTOS: Pictures from today can be found HERE. VIDEO: Remarks from today can be found HERE. Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6485,Lawler Joins Problem Solvers Caucus to Introduce Four Bipartisan Bills to Address Gerrymandering Nationwide,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/17/26… Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) joined the Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs, Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) announced four bipartisan bills aimed at establishing clearer and more consistent rules for congressional redistricting across the country. Reps. Lawler and Salud Carbajal (CA-24) introduced their bipartisan Problem Solvers Mapdrawing Accountability and Principled Standards (MAPS) Act. WATCH: LAWLER JOINS PROBLEM SOLVERS CAUCUS TO INTRODUCE FOUR BIPARTISAN BILLS TO ADDRESS GERRYMANDERING NATIONWIDE The legislation is the result of months of work by the Caucus’ bipartisan Gerrymandering Working Group, led by Reps. Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03) and Ed Case (D-HI-01). The Caucus previously released its Gerrymandering Reform Framework outlining four areas for congressional action: banning mid-decade redistricting, establishing nationwide standards for drawing congressional districts, reducing partisan influence in the map-drawing process, and creating a consistent federal process for resolving redistricting challenges. “Congressional districts should be drawn around communities, not political interests. The Problem Solvers MAPS Act establishes clear, commonsense standards to stop partisan gerrymandering and ensure districts are fairly drawn without favoring any one candidate or party. Politicians in states like New York and Texas should not be able to choose their elected representatives - under a democracy, that power is reserved for the people. I’m proud to work with Rep. Carbajal and our colleagues in the Problem Solvers Caucus to advance a bipartisan approach that puts voters first,” said Congressman Lawler. “This Problem Solvers MAPS Act is really about putting some commonsense guardrails around the redistricting process. When mapmakers do not have clear standards to follow, it becomes much easier for politics to take over. Every state is different, and no two congressional districts are going to look exactly alike, but the basic rules should be fair and consistent, no matter where you live across the country. That is what the Problem Solvers MAPS Act is trying to do: give states clear rules to follow and give voters more confidence that their districts were drawn for the right reasons,” said Congressman Carbajal. Members of the Caucus formally unveiled three additional pieces of the four-bill legislative package supporting their Gerrymandering Framework. Those bills include: H.R. 10379 - Problem Solvers Mapdrawing Accountability and Principled Standards (MAPS) Act, led by Reps. Mike Lawler and Salud Carbajal, would establish clear and consistent criteria for drawing congressional districts nationwide. Maps would be required to comply with standards including equal population, contiguity, compactness, respect for existing political boundaries such as counties, municipalities, and cities, and to prohibit drawing maps to favor any particular party, candidate, and/or incumbent. H.R. 10378 - Problem Solvers Transparent Redistricting Under Stable Timelines (TRUST) Act, led by Reps. Ed Case and Jeff Hurd, would prohibit states from redrawing congressional districts more than once following each decennial Census. The bill is intended to establish a consistent national rule and prevent states from repeatedly redrawing congressional maps between censuses for partisan gain. H.R. 10380 - Problem Solvers Independent Commissions Act, led by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick and Debbie Dingell, would require congressional districts to be drawn through independent citizen redistricting commissions designed to reduce direct partisan influence from politicians over the map-drawing process and establish a more transparent process for developing congressional maps. H.R. 10381 - PSC Nonpartisan Congressional Uniformity and Oversight of Redistricting Trials (COURTS) Act, led by Reps. Ryan Mackenzie and Ed Case, would establish a uniform federal process for legal challenges involving congressional redistricting, including consistent jurisdiction and venue requirements for cases challenging congressional maps. “[Gerrymandering] is a problem that both parties are guilty of. It’s a power issue, not a party issue. Every party that has the opportunity to do it has capitalized on it, and there needs to be a group of individuals and patriotic Americans that say no more because everybody agrees, even the people that do it, by the way, that it is corrosive to democracy, but they are justifying this as this tit-for-tat; meanwhile, the American people suffer,” said Co-Chair Fitzpatrick. “Gerrymandering is bad for America. It weakens the will of the voters, erodes public trust, and creates safe seats that reward extremism and disincentivize thoughtful, bipartisan collaboration. I’m proud our caucus is leading on this framework to take politics out of redistricting and restore confidence in a system where voters choose their representatives, not the other way around,” said Co-Chair Suozzi. Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/malliotakismcgovern-medically-tailored-meals-bill-advances-ways-and-means,Malliotakis/McGovern Medically Tailored Meals Bill Advances from Ways and Means Committee,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicole Malliotakis,M000317,malliotakis.house.gov,malliotakis,https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) applauded the passage of bipartisan legislation she introduced with Rep. James McGovern (D-MA-02), H.R. 5439 - Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals Program Pilot Act, from the House Ways and Means Committee. For seniors living with chronic illnesses, access to nutritious food tailored to their medical needs can play an important role in helping them manage their conditions and remain healthy at home. Similar programs have already shown promise in New York and across the country by providing meals designed by registered dietitians for patients with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and kidney disease. The legislation creates a 6-year Medicare pilot program for 40 hospitals to deliver medically tailored meals for Medicare beneficiaries who live at home and have a diet-impacted disease like diabetes and heart failure after they leave the hospital. The meals are medically tailored, which means they are designed by nutritionists to accommodate the specific health needs of a patient. The legislation is budget neutral with no additional cost to taxpayers. “I’m pleased to see our bipartisan Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals Program Pilot Act pass the Ways and Means Committee to help seniors who have difficulty shopping or cooking on their own receive healthy meals,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. ""For seniors living with serious chronic illnesses, access to nutritious meals tailored to their medical needs can help them better manage their conditions, stay healthier at home and avoid unnecessary hospital visits. This pilot will allow us to measure the results and determine how we can improve outcomes for seniors while potentially lowering healthcare costs for taxpayers.” ""For years, I’ve traveled across Massachusetts and the country learning from experts about how we can help improve nutrition and health outcomes. Incredible providers like Community Servings in Boston, God’s Love We Deliver in New York City, and many others from coast to coast have taught me about the life-saving benefits of Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs),” said Jim McGovern, Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee. “You can’t be healthy if you’re hungry—and that’s why I'm proud to author this legislation with Rep. Malliotakis to improve health outcomes, reduce hospital visits, and save billions of dollars in healthcare spending. It’s a big step forward in our fight for a country where no one goes to bed hungry and everyone has access to the affordable, quality healthcare they deserve."" ""Too many seniors leave the hospital only to be readmitted within weeks because they lack access to the right food or nutrients to manage a chronic illness at home,"" said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). ""This bill tests a targeted approach: whether medically tailored meals paired with nutrition counseling can keep Medicare patients healthier and out of the hospital. Representative Malliotakis has consistently championed this idea for years, and her persistence is paying off with this bipartisan pilot program. The Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals Program Pilot Act will give us the real-world data we need to see if this approach improves care for our most vulnerable seniors and lowers costs by reducing avoidable hospital readmissions."" ""God’s Love We Deliver is grateful to Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis for sponsoring H.R. 5439 - Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals Program Pilot Act - and for her leadership in advancing the bill with unanimous bipartisan support through the House Ways and Means Committee. As a leading provider of Medically Tailored Meals with over 41 years of history serving individuals and families living with life-altering illnesses, God’s Love is excited for the transformative opportunity that this legislation will have in improving the health and well-being of New Yorkers and individuals nationwide. Every day, we deliver 15,000 meals to New Yorkers affected by illness, and every day we see the impact that Food Is Medicine services like Medically Tailored Meals have on the people and families we serve, allowing them to live healthier, more independent lives and keeping them safe in their homes and out of the hospital. We look forward to the continued progress of this signature piece of legislation and are excited for the opportunity to further advance healthcare through the power of Food Is Medicine,"" said Terrence Meck, President and CEO of God's Love We Deliver.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://mannion.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-mannion-cosponsors-bill-stop-tax-giveaways-data-centers,Representative Mannion Cosponsors Bill to Stop Tax Giveaways for Data Centers,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,John W. Mannion,M001231,mannion.house.gov,mannion,https://mannion.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today announced he is an original cosponsor of new legislation to stop data centers from claiming special federal tax breaks included in Donald Trump’s partisan budget bill. Last year, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) significantly expanded tax breaks that have helped spur the construction of AI data centers; that same legislation cut over $1 trillion from Medicaid and SNAP food assistance. The Reverse Big Ugly Tax Breaks for Data Centers Act would exclude data centers from benefiting from those OBBBA tax breaks. Specifically, the bill would exclude data centers from being able to take the 100% bonus depreciation tax deduction, and from being eligible for Opportunity Zone tax benefits. Representative John W. Mannion said, “Data centers need to pay their own way, and siting decisions must be transparent, locally driven, and centered on the people who live in these communities. It’s wrong to hand out tax breaks and public resources to data centers, especially while cutting over $1 trillion in food assistance, Medicaid, and health care.” The legislation is being led by Representatives Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and Don Davis (NC-01.) Earlier this week, Representative Mannion also voted for the bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act. That legislation would require state utility regulators to consider policies ensuring data centers cover the full cost of the new power generation and transmission upgrades required to serve them instead of shifting those costs onto families and small businesses.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ocasio-cortez-secures-351-million-flood-prevention-bronx-and-queens,Ocasio-Cortez Secures $351 Million for Flood Prevention in The Bronx and Queens,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,O000172,ocasio-cortez.house.gov,ocasio-cortez,https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Funding is a $161 million increase from the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 Washington, D.C. - Today, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) announced the House of Representatives’ passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2026 (WRDA), which includes a provision she requested with her New York Delegation colleagues to authorize the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to spend $351 million to combat flooding in The Bronx and Queens. The funding authorizes projects that would directly improve water and wastewater infrastructure, including new flood control and stormwater infrastructure projects in New York’s 14th District. “In 2021, Hurricane Ida devastated New York City, taking the lives of 13 community members in flash floods and causing extensive damage to homes in The Bronx and Queens. Since then, the climate crisis has increased the prevalence and intensity of severe weather events,” said Alexandria Representative Ocasio-Cortez. “I am very proud to have secured $351 million in the House-passed Water Resources Development Act of 2026. This funding will allow us to strengthen our existing flood infrastructure, protect our community from future weather events, and help communities better engage with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.” In 2024, Representatives Ocasio-Cortez and Grace Meng (NY-06), along with Senator Schumer (D-NY), secured $190 million to combat flooding in Queens. This year’s funding increase adds to that amount. In addition to funding for flood management, Representative Ocasio-Cortez and her colleagues secured the creation of a new Office of Technical Assistance and Community Outreach and support for oyster restoration projects in the East River, Flushing Bay, and the Bronx River. The impacts of climate change are being felt across our communities, particularly in The Bronx and Queens. By the end of the century, it’s estimated that sea levels could rise by seven feet along the United States coastline. The Water Resources Development Act of 2026 provides the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the authority to carry out development projects and studies that improve water resources infrastructure, including for rivers and harbors. This legislation will now be reconciled with the Senate version of the Water Resources Development Act before being signed into law by the President. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-pat-ryan-introduces-honoring-sacrifice-troops-war-act-leads-house,"CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN INTRODUCES “HONORING THE SACRIFICE OF TROOPS IN WAR ACT,” LEADS HOUSE COLLEAGUES IN DEMANDING TRUMP AND HEGSETH STOP HIDING TRUE COST OF IRAN WAR",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Patrick Ryan,R000579,patryan.house.gov,patryan,https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Ryan has been the leading voice of opposition to the war in Iran; he has voted to stop the war 6 times, leads the “No Funds for Iran War Act,” and has repeatedly called on Secretary Hegseth to resign over his massive betrayals to US troops and citizens Ryan sits on the House Armed Services Committee, is the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in Congress, and served 2 combat tours in Iraq earning him two Bronze Stars WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan – an Iraq War combat veteran and the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in Congress – today led 11 of his Democratic Veteran colleagues in introducing legislation to honor the immense sacrifices made by US troops in the Iran War, and stop Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth’s desperate attempts to obscure the true cost to our troops and the American people. Ryan’s Honoring the Sacrifice of Troops in War Act would ban the Secretary of Defense from manipulating casualty records and jeopardizing the benefits of our servicemembers and public servants. The bill introduction comes after the Pentagon unprecedentedly recategorized recent casualties suffered in Trump’s Iran war—including four killed and over 200 wounded servicemembers—under a separate category outside Operation Epic Fury in a shameless attempt to downplay the damage done and evade accountability to the American people. “Every Patriot deployed to this war in Iran – the 50,000 still in theater, the hundreds wounded, and especially the 18 killed – are American heroes. They deserve to be honored as such – not swept under the rug by a President and SecDef so humiliated by their failure that they’d rather dishonor the troops than tell the truth,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “It’s a total betrayal of our armed forces by the very people that swore to protect and do right by them. I’m proud to lead so many of my fellow veterans in Congress to make it clear we will not stand for the Trump Administration’s disgraceful disrespect of American heroes – before, during, or after their deployments.” To ban the Secretary of Defense from hiding the true cost of war, the Honoring the Sacrifice of Troops in War Act specifically: Bans Arbitrary, Unjustified Recategorizing of Designated Contingency Operations by prohibiting redesignating an ongoing conflict if the Administration continues to mobilize forces against the same enemy; Prevents Manipulation of Casualty Records by prohibiting manipulation of casualty records by falsely redesignating a contingency operation; Restores Casualty Records of Our Fallen and Wounded Heroes in the Iran War by requiring restoration of casualty records for Iran-related operations since February 28, 2026, and notify next-of-kin about the correction; Bans Cutting Hard-Earned Benefits for Troops and Civilian Personnel by prohibiting the modification of eligibility for deployment-related personnel benefits on the basis of falsely redesignating a contingency operation; and Restores Benefits to Personnel Supporting Iran War by retroactively restoring all covered benefits entitled to members of the Armed Services and civilian employees who have supported Iran-related operations since February 28, 2026. In addition to Ryan, the Honoring the Sacrifice of Troops in War Act is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives and Democratic Veterans Eugene Vindman, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, Jason Crow, Herb Conaway, Derek T. Tran, Mike Thompson, Jimmy Panetta, Ted W. Lieu, and Salud Carbajal. The legislation is endorsed by VoteVets and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). “Families who have lost a servicemember deserve an accurate, permanent record of their sacrifice. Congressman Pat Ryan's companion bill in the House helps ensure that record can't be rewritten. VoteVets is proud to support his leadership on this issue,” said Vote Vets Senior Advisor Major General (Ret.) Paul Eaton. “We are proud to stand with Congressman Ryan in demanding the Department of Defense be accountable and transparent in their decision to reclassify casualty records,” said Jess Finucan, Director of Policy & Advocacy for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA). “It is imperative to Congress and to the American people that we understand the true cost of war, not just in dollars but in lives forever affected. Purposefully reclassifying records to minimize the impacts of war is negligent and is a disservice to the servicemembers and families who have borne the costs. The Honoring the Sacrifices of Our Troops in War Act ensures transparent, accurate accounting and prevents long-term, negative impact on benefits for those who have served in harm’s way.” Ryan has become the leading voice of Democratic opposition to the war in Iran. He has cosponsored and voted in favor of War Powers Resolutions to end the war in Iran five separate times. In May, amid reports that the Pentagon would seek $200B in supplemental funding for the war, Ryan introduced the No Funds for Iran War Act, which would prohibit the use of additional taxpayer funds for military action against Iran in the absence of an Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) or official declaration of war from Congress. In April, Ryan confronted Hegseth himself during a House Armed Services Committee hearing, pressing him on his failure to protect troops at Port Shuaiba. Following new reporting on the strike on Port Shuaiba, Ryan opened an investigation in August into how the Department of Defense failed to provide adequate medical care to service members injured and demanded answers about the Department's lack of preparation for a strike against Port Shuaiba. Most recently, Ryan spoke on the House floor against handing Hegseth’s Pentagon a $1.5 trillion blank check through the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). He criticized colleagues for again refusing to consider his No Funds for Iran War Act, especially following the successful passage of a War Powers Resolution. Congressman Ryan is a U.S. Army veteran, served two combat tours in Iraq, and is the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in the U.S. House of Representatives. Amid recent threats to veterans’ benefits, national security concerns, and rising threats worldwide, Congressman Ryan led his fellow veterans in Congress to create the Democratic Veterans Caucus. He sits on the House Armed Services Committee and has led extensive legislation to deliver relief for veterans, servicemembers, and military families. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4656,Tonko Introduces Slate of Affordability Bills to Lower Energy Costs,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Ranking Member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, introduced several new bills that would help address the cost-of-living crisis for American households by delivering urgently-needed utility bill relief and establishing a comprehensive energy affordability agenda. The legislation authored by Tonko includes: The End Energy Hardship Act: establishes a federal program to fund forgiveness of residential customer utility debt. Roughly 1 in 6 households are behind on their energy bills, and 14 million Americans have utility debt so severe that it has been or will soon be sent to collections. To qualify for funding, utilities must adopt a program to cap eligible customers’ bills at no more than 6% of each household’s income for at least 60 consecutive months. Capping utility bills at a set percentage of income provides customers with predictable and more affordable bills each month and prevents arrears from accumulating. The legislation would also provide federal funding to help offset the potential ratepayer impacts of administering these percentage of income payment programs. The Data Center Fairness Fee Act: requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to impose a charge on the owners of data centers based on electricity consumption. The revenues raised would be made available to State and Tribal Governments to fund energy affordability programs, such as LIHEAP, and electric grid upgrades to benefit residential utility customers. The State Energy Oversight Act: creates a Department of Energy (DOE) program to provide financial and technical assistance to state public utility commissions, which are responsible for overseeing utility rates, to support staffing, modeling, analysis, and other activities to increase commission capacity and improve public participation in proceedings. The bill would authorize $50 million for each of Fiscal Years 2027 through 2031 to be allocated to states through a DOE-determined formula. The Regional Energy Hubs Act: authorizes the DOE to fund state governments to establish regional energy hubs across the nation that help residents navigate and access energy efficiency incentives and affordability programs. This proposal is modeled after the success of programs like New York’s Capital Region Clean Energy Hub and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Cooperative Extension System. “There’s a lot of talk in Washington about skyrocketing energy costs; but the American people don’t want more discussion about rising utility bills — they need action,” Congressman Tonko said. “This slate of legislation I’m introducing responds to that need with near-term utility bill relief that provides tangible savings for consumers and puts us on a path to a more affordable energy system. When it comes to lowering energy costs, there’s no time to waste. I urge my colleagues in Congress to support this legislation that will deliver relief for countless Americans struggling to pay their energy bills.” Since President Trump took office, household electric bills have gone up on average 18% nationally, with estimates expecting that number to continue to rise. Tens of millions of U.S. households have reported difficulty paying their energy bills, often reducing or forgoing food or medicine to keep the lights and heat on. These latest bills build upon Congressman Tonko’s track record as a leader in the national energy affordability policy conversation. Tonko is a long-time champion of existing federal energy affordability programs, including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). He is the author of H.R. 1355, the bipartisan Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act, which would reauthorize and strengthen WAP. Additional details, including supporting organizations, bill text, and section-by-section summaries on each of Tonko’s bills can be found below. H.R.10466: The End Energy Hardship Act Bill text Section-by-section summary This bill is supported by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) and the American Economic Liberties Project (AELP). Alexander Ratner, senior federal policy counsel at the American Council for an Energy-Efficiency Economy, said “No one should have to choose between paying an energy bill and buying groceries. Rep. Tonko’s bill would help wipe out utility payment debts and put stronger protections in place so bills stay affordable. This is a smart way to give families relief today and more stability tomorrow.” ""It is absolutely unacceptable that American families are having to choose between keeping the lights on and putting food on the table because of how unaffordable essential utility services have become in our for-profit monopoly utility system,"" said Marissa P. Gillett, Senior Fellow at the American Economic Liberties Project and former Chairman of the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority. ""Rep. Tonko's bill is an important first step in delivering real relief from skyrocketing utility bills. We look forward to continuing working with him and others in the fight for structural change that addresses the roots of the affordability crisis, including excess utility profit."" H.R.10467: The Data Center Fairness Fee Act Bill text Section-by-section summary H.R.10468: The State Energy Oversight Act Bill text Section-by-section summary This bill is supported by Evergreen Action, the Federation of American Scientists (FAS), and the Future of Heat Initiative. “At a time when Americans are paying historically high energy costs, the State Energy Oversight Act will help ease their burden by giving states the resources and funding they need to hold utilities accountable for the rates they charge, while putting consumers first,” said Evergreen Action Federal Affairs Director Dani Hupper. “Keeping the lights on at home should not come at the expense of paying for other basic needs. Families deserve affordable energy and a government that will stand up to the utility companies profiting off of them.” “State public utility commissions are the peoples’ best defense against skyrocketing bills and exploding data center energy use. Unfortunately these commissions are outdated, underfunded, and understaffed, and families and businesses are paying the price. This bill would strengthen states’ affordability arsenal through much-needed funding and technical support for commissions,” said Arjun Krishnaswami, FAS Senior Advisor. “Utilities come to rate cases with teams of lawyers and expert witnesses. State regulators often have a few staff and a mountain of filings. When they don’t have the capacity to scrutinize a spending request, families absorb the difference on their energy bills. The State Energy Oversight Act gives regulators the support they need and it gives consumer advocates a real seat at the table. We’re glad to support it,” said Jamie Van Nostrand, Policy Director, The Future of Heat Initiative, and former Chair of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. H.R.10469: The Regional Energy Hubs Act Bill text Section-by-section summary This bill is supported by the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO).",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/16/joint-democratic-leadership-statement-on-h-r-5334/,JOINT DEMOCRATIC LEADERSHIP STATEMENT ON H.R. 5334,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"UPDATE: Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians and Syrians On Tuesday, June 25, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration could move forward with its plans to rip legal status away from nearly 350,000 current Haitian and Syrian Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. Following this decision, the Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of TPS for Haitians and Syrians, effective July 27, 2026. Individuals who have lost TPS may be impacted in different ways, including loss of protection from deportation and loss of work authorization. However, there may be alternative legal pathways to remain and work in the United States. To learn more about what the end of TPS means for you and your family: All TPS holders regardless of designation should visit the USCIS website for the latest updates on their TPS status. Visit the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigration Affairs website to learn more about what the expiration of TPS status means for impacted New Yorkers. Resource documents are available in English, Arabic, French and Haitian Creole. Contact the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA), whose Legal Support Centers offer free, confidential immigration legal help. Free, safe and confidential immigration legal services are available regardless of your immigration status and in your language by calling the MOIA legal support hotline at 800-354-0365 or visiting nyc.gov/knowyourrights.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/16/leader-jeffries-announces-committee-assignment-for-congressman-everton-blair/,LEADER JEFFRIES ANNOUNCES COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENT FOR CONGRESSMAN EVERTON BLAIR,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced that the House Democratic Caucus has approved Everton Blair to be appointed to the Committee on Financial Services. “Today, I am honored to announce that the Democratic Caucus has approved Rep. Everton Blair to be appointed to the House Committee on Financial Services. Congressman Blair is an accomplished public servant, educator and fighter for equality who will advocate for the financial industry to work on behalf of everyday Americans. The child of Jamaican immigrants and a proud son of Gwinnett County, Rep. Blair knows the promise of the American Dream and the importance of it remaining within reach. Rep. Blair is a committed champion for working families, and will use his role on the critical Financial Services Committee to support first-time homeowners and expand access to affordable housing for the people he is privileged to represent in Georgia’s 13th Congressional District and folks across America. The House Democratic Caucus family is proud to welcome him to the Congress, and we look forward to his distinguished service on behalf of the American people.” ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/16/leader-jeffries-on-house-floor-we-will-continue-to-stand-with-the-ukrainian-people-until-victory-is-won/,LEADER JEFFRIES ON HOUSE FLOOR: “WE WILL CONTINUE TO STAND WITH THE UKRAINIAN PEOPLE UNTIL VICTORY IS WON”,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke on the House Floor in opposition to legislation that would expand Donald Trump’s authority to impose tariffs and continue his failed global trade war that is making life far too expensive for everyday Americans. LEADER JEFFRIES: I rise in strong support of the underlying bill to honor the heroic, brave, patriotic Tuskegee Airmen, part of the Greatest Generation, who stood up against fascism, authoritarianism and the forces that were trying to bring about totalitarianism all across Europe and to the rest of the world. We can learn and be inspired by the courage, the character and the conviction of the Tuskegee Airmen. And it’s unfortunate that some in this administration are trying to erase their history. But that history is not just Black history. It’s American history. We will never let it be erased. We must continue to be informed by it, encouraged by it and inspired by it. As I was thinking about this on the way over—I’m certainly so thankful to Congressman Shomari Figures for his leadership in advancing this legislation and for continuing in every possible way to stand up for his constituents of every race in the great state of Alabama. As I was thinking about the Tuskegee Airmen and the greatest generation who rescued the world from Adolf Hitler, Nazi Germany and fascism, I thought how ironic it is that we’re on the Floor today debating legislation with respect to Russia, Vladimir Putin and their horrific invasion of Ukraine. Now, House Democrats, led by Speaker Pelosi and Leader Hoyer and many others, have been at the forefront of standing up for the people of Ukraine, pushing back against the effort to run them over, pushing back against tyranny and propaganda and the horrors that have been inflicted on them by Vladimir Putin and this war of aggression that Russia has launched. We will continue to, at all times, stand behind the Ukrainian people, support their courage and their bravery in their fight, an existential one, against Vladimir Putin and Russia. We believe it’s a fight not just for their territorial integrity, but it’s also a battle between the forces of democracy versus the forces of autocracy, the forces of freedom versus the forces of tyranny, the forces of truth versus the forces of propaganda. And the United States of America has always stood on the side of democracy, freedom and truth, which is why we must always continue to stand on the side of the Ukrainian people. And that’s our pledge as House Democrats. We’ve been there with the Ukrainian people from the very beginning. But this legislation that will be before us today, unfortunately, in my view, does not accomplish the objectives that some may, in good faith, in this House or over in the Senate be trying to accomplish. All of us, I believe, certainly as House Democrats, will continue to stand up for the Ukrainian people. But the manner in which this bill has been written doesn’t require the President of the United States to impose sanctions on Russia. In fact, there are so many loopholes written into the bill, I believe, that it’s very unlikely that the sanctions relief contemplated in the legislation will ever see the light of day. That’s particularly the case because President Trump has shown great reluctance over the 10 years that he’s been in our faces here in the United States of America to actually side with the Ukrainian people. He recently blamed Ukraine for the increase in diesel prices. No, Mr. President, diesel prices have increased because of your reckless and costly war of choice in Iran. He suggested that somehow President Zelenskyy, who has been a brave and courageous wartime leader, and the Ukrainian people have visited the horror, the terror, the war upon themselves. No, one person bears responsibility for it: Vladimir Putin. Many of us wonder why the President has been so reluctant to aggressively confront the bully of Eastern Europe. One of the things we’ve learned from the Tuskegee Airmen, from the great leaders of that time, from the Greatest Generation, from FDR, from Churchill, is that you have to confront the bully, not appease the bully. So we find ourselves once again, in 2026, just like the Tuskegee Airmen found themselves in the early to mid-1940s in the FDR, Churchill versus Chamberlain moment: you either are going to confront the bully or appease the bully. That’s what Chamberlain did. And when you appease the bully, it doesn’t work out. We learned that lesson, or should have, in 1939. And yet we find ourselves at this moment in time, some, including the highest reaches of the federal government in the executive branch, seemingly more interested in appeasing Vladimir Putin, not confronting him. And that’s why I’ve got real concerns, and I’m not in a position to support this legislation, notwithstanding the fact that I’m proud to represent more Ukrainian Americans than any other Member of Congress in the country back home in South Brooklyn, in Coney Island and in Brighton Beach, an incredible patriotic community. I say to my constituents: we will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people in Ukraine until victory is won, but this legislation does not provide a path to secure that. Worse yet, what this legislation will do is give Donald Trump perhaps unfettered authority to unleash tariffs on the American people in ways that have already cost everyday Americans thousands of dollars in additional expense per year. Why in the world, in the middle of an affordability crisis that is not a hoax, it’s very real—far too many people in this country, working hard, playing by the rules, can’t thrive, can barely survive in this failed economy. Life way too expensive in the United States of America. Why in the world would this Congress or the People’s House give this President unfettered authority to visit more tariffs on the world that will have an adverse economic impact on the American people? I can’t do it, because I’m standing up for everyday Americans who are suffering in this failed economy with a president who promised to lower costs on day one. Costs haven’t gone down in America. Costs have gone up. And one of the reasons they’ve gone up is because of the Trump Tariffs that have increased costs on everyday Americans. Thousands of additional dollars in expense per year on groceries, on goods, on cars, even on homeownership. And so why in the world would this Congress give this President additional authority to visit that kind of economic harm on the American people? And so, respectfully, Mr. Speaker, I cannot support the bill…because, substantively, it will not accomplish the objective, which is to stand with the American people, stand with the Ukrainian people, stand with democracy, stand with freedom, stand with truth and push back against tyranny. And this bill at the same time could give the President an additional tool to visit economic harm on the American people. I thank you for yielding. I thank the distinguished gentleman from Alabama for bringing this legislation honoring the Tuskegee Airmen. And at this moment in time, when we see renewed tyranny coming out of Eastern Europe by Vladimir Putin and Russian aggression, let’s summon the courage, the character and the conviction that the Greatest Generation showed and not appease the bully, but confront the bully until victory is won. Full Floor remarks can be watched here.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/16/leader-jeffries-statement-on-donald-trumps-inflationary-policies/,LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON DONALD TRUMP’S INFLATIONARY POLICIES,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement: For the past 605 days, Donald Trump has unilaterally implemented an onslaught of failed, inflationary policies that have blown up our economy, leaving the Federal Reserve with no choice but to raise interest rates for the first time in three years. Make no mistake. Donald Trump owns this rate hike and is to blame for the mortgages and credit card rates that will rise as a result. Republicans promised to lower costs and stop endless wars. Instead, Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice in Iran has caused the largest global energy crisis in history. Americans are paying an extra half-billion dollars a day for gas, diesel has never been more expensive and electricity bills are through the roof. At the same time, his on-again, off-again tariffs are causing the price of groceries and everyday essentials to skyrocket. In the twenty months since Donald Trump took office, the average family has spent $4,200 more just to get by, inflation is far higher and the Fed is raising rates to clean up his mess. ENOUGH. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/16/leader-jeffries-we-are-committed-to-this-fight-for-an-affordable-america-until-we-win-this-fight-for-the-american-people/,LEADER JEFFRIES: “WE ARE COMMITTED TO THIS FIGHT FOR AN AFFORDABLE AMERICA UNTIL WE WIN THIS FIGHT FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE”,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press event with the House Democratic Caucus and advocates on the Capitol steps, where he emphasized that as people continue to struggle with the high cost of living due to failed Republican policies, House Democrats are committed to fighting for an affordable America. LEADER JEFFRIES: It’s a high honor and a distinct privilege to stand here today on the steps of the United States Capitol, alongside Whip Katherine Clark, Dr. Raul Ruiz, Nikema Williams, Yassamin Ansari and distinguished, courageous, fighting Members of the House Democratic Caucus. I want to thank Kat as well as Rebecca from the great state of Arizona, Terri from the great state of Georgia and John from the Great State of Nebraska for bravely sharing your stories and advocating for families, farmers and millions of Americans who are struggling throughout the country. Far too many people are working hard and playing by the rules, but they can’t thrive and can barely survive. Life is way too expensive. People are drowning in Donald Trump’s failed economy. House Democrats are determined to make life more affordable for the American people. We just need a handful of Republicans to stand up to Donald Trump and join us. Instead, they have decided to cancel votes and run out of town without providing any relief to hardworking American taxpayers. Republicans have done nothing to lower the high cost of groceries. Nothing to make healthcare more affordable. Nothing to end the reckless war of choice in Iran. Nothing to lower gas prices. Nothing to stop the violent mass deportation machine. Nothing to hold the Trump administration accountable for the unprecedented corruption unleashed on the American people. This is a do-nothing Republican Congress, and it’s about to come to an end. House Democrats believe that here in America, when you work hard and play by the rules, you should be able to live an affordable life, a comfortable life and a good life. You should be able to own a home, educate your children, see a doctor when you need one, go to the grocery store without being stressed out, take a vacation with your family, save for a rainy day and then retire with grace and dignity. That’s the American Dream. It’s broken right now, but House Democrats are working hard to revive it. Two years ago, Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans promised to bring down grocery prices on day one. They promised to stop endless wars in the Middle East. They promised to bring energy prices down by 50%. They promised to get gas prices below $2 a gallon. But Republicans have done nothing to make life more affordable for the American people. Instead, they’ve made life more expensive. For two years, Americans have been wondering: were MAGA Republicans lying, indifferent or are they just incompetent? We now have an answer. It’s all of the above. Democrats know that things need to change dramatically. Our message to the American people is a simple one: we hear you, we see you, we feel you and we’re committed to making life better for you. House Democrats are fighting for an affordable America. House Democrats are fighting to lower the high cost of groceries, gas and housing. House Democrats are fighting to make healthcare affordable because we believe, in this great nation, the wealthiest country in the history of the world, access to high-quality and affordable healthcare can’t simply be a privilege available only to the wealthy, the well-off and the well-connected. Affordable healthcare must be a right available to every single American. We are also here to make clear that it’s time for the corruption to end. Anyone who is stealing from the American people, shortchanging the American people or screwing over the American people, you are now on notice. House Democrats are going to hold the crooks accountable beginning on day one. Democrats are here. We outside. We are committed to this fight for an affordable America until we win this fight for the American people. We will continue to show up, we will continue to stand up and we will continue to speak up until we end this national nightmare and restore prosperity, peace and the promise of America for everyone. Fighting for an Affordable America. Full press event can be watched here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2483,Kennedy’s NEXUS for Families Act Passes U.S. House of Representatives,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Timothy M. Kennedy,K000402,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Legislation Would Allow Families to Apply and Interview Together, Reducing Unnecessary Barriers to Cross-Border Travel WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Tim Kennedy’s NEXUS for Families Act, H.R. 9382, legislation that would make it easier for families to enroll in and renew their NEXUS memberships. The bipartisan bill requires U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to link NEXUS applications for members of the same family, allowing them to apply and interview together. It would also give CBP the ability to waive in-person interviews for children under 14 when appropriate. “I am proud to lead the NEXUS for Families Act, legislation that modernizes and improves the process and ensures it actually works for families,” said Congressman Kennedy. “By allowing families to apply together and conduct joint interviews, this bill makes the travel process simpler for parents, children, and spouses.” For families in Western New York, where travel across the U.S.-Canada border is part of everyday life, the current NEXUS process can create unnecessary hurdles. Each family member must submit a separate application, and parents often have to schedule separate interviews for their children, requiring multiple, inconvenient trips to enrollment centers. This results in delays that prevent families from traveling together through NEXUS lanes, adding unnecessary time and bureaucracy to cross-border trips. NEXUS was created jointly by the United States and Canada in 2000 to provide pre-approved, vetted travelers with expedited processing at the northern border. Today, more than two million people are enrolled in NEXUS, and nearly 328,000 people cross the northern border every day, supporting local economies and strengthening the ties between America and Canada. By allowing families to manage their NEXUS applications and interviews together while preserving the program’s security and vetting requirements, the NEXUS for Families Act cuts through unnecessary red tape and makes cross-border travel more efficient for Western New York families. This legislation will now be considered by the U.S. Senate. Congressman Kennedy's floor remarks can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-langworthy-announces-house-passage-his-northern-border-security,Congressman Langworthy Announces House Passage of his Northern Border Security and Enhancement Review Act,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—September 16th… Congressman Nick Langworthy today announced that the House of Representatives passed his Northern Border Security Enhancement and Review Act (H.R. 5517), advancing bipartisan legislation to ensure the United States regularly evaluates evolving threats along the northern border and maintains a strategy capable of addressing them. The bill passed today by voice vote. Congressman Langworthy Speaks on his Bill on the House Floor —September 16, 2026 The legislation requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to regularly assess threats along the northern border, update its northern border strategy as needed and provide Congress with the information necessary to conduct effective oversight. It also requires U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations to establish performance measures for its efforts to secure the northern border between ports of entry. “Protecting our northern border is just as important to our homeland security as the southern border, and we cannot afford to take it for granted,” said Congressman Langworthy. “For too long, the northern border has not received the sustained attention it deserves, even as the threats facing our communities continue to evolve. This bipartisan legislation ensures we are regularly assessing those threats, updating our strategy and giving Congress the information it needs to hold the Department of Homeland Security accountable. I’m proud that the House has passed this common-sense bill, and I’ll continue working to make sure our national security is protected, particularly for our border communities like right here in Western New York.” The United States shares more than 5,500 miles of border with Canada, spanning some of the most diverse and challenging terrain in the country. In recent years, Border Patrol apprehensions between ports of entry along the northern border increased from 916 in Fiscal Year 2021 to more than 23,000 in Fiscal Year 2024. In Western New York, the need for continued vigilance is particularly important. The Government Accountability Office reported that Border Patrol was involved in 170 drug-seizure events in the Buffalo Sector during Fiscal Year 2024, nearly double the number recorded the previous year. He concluded, “Americans deserve to know that the men and women responsible for protecting them have the tools, information and strategy necessary to meet the threats of today and prepare for the threats of tomorrow. We have made progress, but this is no time for complacency.”",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6478,Lawler Applauds Passage of Bill to Modernize U.S. Foreign Service,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/16/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after his bill, H.R. 9086, the Foreign Service Modernization Act, passed the House by voice vote. This legislation will improve the operations and effectiveness of America’s diplomatic corps as they work to advance U.S. interests abroad. WATCH: CONGRESSMAN LAWLER DEBATES ON HOUSE FLOOR IN FAVOR OF THE FOREIGN SERVICE MODERNIZATION ACT The Foreign Service Modernization Act marks the first comprehensive review of the Foreign Service Act since it was signed into law in 1980. “America’s diplomats are on the front lines of advancing our interests and protecting our national security around the world. But for more than four decades, their processes and scope have not evolved with the geopolitical landscape. This legislation will give our diplomats the tools, resources, and support they need to meet the challenges of the 21st century. I’m proud to see this important legislation pass the House, and I look forward to working to get it across the finish line in the Senate,” said Congressman Lawler. The legislation includes several reforms to improve how the State Department recruits and trains diplomats, including measures that would: Provide Ambassadors with increased authority and oversight in carrying out US foreign policy at their posts overseas, Create a pilot program for a Diplomatic Reserve Corps, modeling the reserve functions of the armed services, that would surge diplomats to the front lines in response to emergencies and crises abroad, Enhance expeditionary diplomacy in austere posts to advance American interests outside of the confines of embassy walls, Align State Department human resources, technology, and training to meet modern national security demands, and Increase pathways for military veterans to join the Foreign Service. Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/malliotakis-bill-protect-taxpayers-ghost-preparers-passes-house-unanimously,Malliotakis Bill to Protect Taxpayers from Ghost Preparers Passes House Unanimously,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicole Malliotakis,M000317,malliotakis.house.gov,malliotakis,https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(WASHINGTON, DC) — Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis applauded the unanimous House passage of her legislation, H.R. 9499, the Protecting Taxpayers from Ghost Preparers Act. This legislation takes an important step to ensure that taxpayers who are victims of preparer fraud are not unfairly punished for actions they did not commit. Under current law, when a dishonest tax preparer commits fraud without the taxpayer's knowledge, the taxpayer may be subject to an indefinite statute of limitations, even if they had no intent to evade their tax obligations. The bill addresses this gap in the law by clarifying that the unlimited statute of limitations for fraudulent tax returns applies only when the taxpayer intended to commit fraud—not when a dishonest tax preparer acted alone without the taxpayer's knowledge. Several recent New York cases underscore how dishonest tax preparers can exploit taxpayers and defraud the system. An individual on Long Island pleaded guilty to a nearly $12 million tax fraud scheme. They prepared fraudulent tax returns, charged clients more than $1 million in fees—including a percentage of their refunds—and put those taxpayers at risk while enriching themselves. An individual in the Bronx was sentenced to four years in prison for orchestrating a decade-long, $145 million tax fraud scheme. He oversaw the filing of tens of thousands of false tax returns, generating approximately $12 million in fraudulent proceeds. “Far too many taxpayers have been forced to spend months trying to fix IRS problems they did not create, and my office has seen that frustration firsthand through more than 1,400 IRS-related constituent cases,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “With the unanimous passage of my legislation in the House, we are one step closer to ensuring innocent taxpayers are not penalized for fraud or misconduct committed by a tax preparer. This bill puts the responsibility where it belongs—on those who break the law—and gives taxpayers greater protection when they have acted in good faith. I hope the Senate will now take up this bipartisan, commonsense measure and send it to the President’s desk.” “Shady businesses that file tax returns on behalf of taxpayers but deceive the IRS by making it appear that the taxpayer prepared the return are not just committing fraud – they are committing a crime that could leave an innocent taxpayer facing consequences and potential IRS penalties for something they did not do,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “With the Protecting Taxpayers from Ghost Preparers Act, we can ensure taxpayers do not face an indefinite future of IRS assessments or penalties due to the misdeeds of others. Having seen the impact of tax fraud on victims in the communities she serves, Representative Malliotakis is protecting the rights of taxpayers by keeping the IRS focused on going after the criminals responsible.”",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://mannion.house.gov/media/press-releases/representative-john-w-mannions-ny-22-legislation-improve-reading-outcomes-0,Representative John W. Mannion’s (NY-22) Legislation to Improve Reading Outcomes in Elementary and Secondary Schools Passes House With Bipartisan Support,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,John W. Mannion,M001231,mannion.house.gov,mannion,https://mannion.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative John W. Mannion (NY-22) today announced that his legislation, the Science of Reading Act of 2026, passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bipartisan support. The bipartisan bill, also supported by Representative Erin Houchin (IN-9) and Representative Kevin Kiley (CA-3), aims to strengthen reading outcomes by promoting evidence-based instruction grounded in the Science of Reading. Representative John W. Mannion said, “As a teacher for nearly three decades - and the husband of a literacy expert - I know that strong reading skills are the foundation for success in the classroom, in the workplace, and throughout life. The Science of Reading Act gives teachers and students access to proven, evidence-based approaches that help kids become stronger readers. I’m proud that Republicans and Democrats came together to pass this legislation and move us one step closer to improving reading outcomes for students in NY-22 and across the country. Strong schools and strong readers are essential to America’s ability to compete and win globally.” Representative Erin Houchin said, “Reading is the foundation of learning, and we cannot accept declining literacy rates as the status quo. The Science of Reading Act will equip classrooms with proven methods to ensure every student can read. Indiana has shown that the Science of Reading works, and I’m proud to see this important legislation pass the House.” The Science of Reading Act would amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to require that literacy instruction funded through the Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) program follows the “science of reading.” Furthermore, the bill would limit the use of the three‑cueing model as the primary model of instruction for states participating in this program. This bill also carefully ensures protections for individualized instructional supports for students with disabilities and English language learners. The science of reading uses five evidence-based components of phonemic awareness - phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension - to teach students literacy skills. More than 40 states have implemented these methods successfully, helping to create more consistent and comprehensive outcomes for students. Watch Congressman Mannion's remarks here. # # #",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/meng-introduces-stamps-staying-connected-act,MENG INTRODUCES THE STAMPS FOR STAYING CONNECTED ACT,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY) introduced the Stamps for Staying Connected Act (H.R.10129), a bill that provides postage to incarcerated individuals who cannot afford it. This legislation would authorize the Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to provide postage for general correspondence to incarcerated individuals who lack sufficient funds in their commissary accounts. While the BOP already provides postage for legal-related mail, this measure would codify that policy and extend it to personal correspondence by providing up to five stamps per week for general mail, in addition to the five stamps currently available for legal-related mail. Federal prisons currently require individuals to use funds from their commissary accounts to purchase postage. But many incarcerated people have little or no money available. Federal prison jobs can pay as little as 12 cents per hour, meaning it can take several hours of work to earn enough to purchase a single stamp. “People who are incarcerated rely on mail to stay connected with their families and loved ones, prepare for reentry, pursue education, practice their faith, and communicate with their attorneys,” said Congresswoman Meng. “Providing a few stamps each week is a basic but meaningful way to help people maintain those critical connections while they are serving their time. This commonsense legislation builds on an existing BOP policy so that people in prison do not have to spend the little money they earn each day simply to write home.” Staying connected with family, friends, faith communities, and other support networks can help people successfully return to their communities after incarceration. The Bureau of Prisons encourages people in its custody to maintain these relationships, and research shows that strong support systems can reduce recidivism and improve reentry outcomes after release ""Maintaining family and community connections is one of the strongest predictors of successful reentry and safer communities,” said Nina Patel, Senior Policy Counsel, Justice Division, American Civil Liberties Union. “However, many people in federal prison cannot afford the cost of a postage stamp. The Stamps for Staying Connected Act recognizes that meaningful rehabilitation depends on preserving relationships for people who are incarcerated. Sending a letter home can strengthen a parent's bond with a child, sustain hope, and reinforce the support systems that help people return to their communities successfully. This commonsense legislation will help ensure people in federal prison are not cut off from the very connections that provide meaning and support for rehabilitation."" “When incarcerated people are able to stay connected to their families, it helps boost their mental health and can ease their transition back home after they’re released,” said JC Hendrickson, senior policy strategist in the Brennan Center's Justice Program. “But many people incarcerated in federal prison cannot afford stamps, making it difficult to send letters to loved ones. This bill would help make sure that everyone behind bars can communicate with their families.” “Communicating with family members in prison should not depend on how much money someone has,” said Shanna Rifkin, FAMM General Counsel. “This bill would help people in prison foster relationships with loved ones that we know are crucial for improved mental health and also reduced recidivism once people return to the community.” “NYC Books Through Bars, a prison literacy project, sends free books in response to letters we receive from people who are incarcerated in facilities around the country,” said Daniel Schaffer, NYC Books Through Bars. “We know that the stamps needed to write to us are a precious resource, and we are likely failing to serve the neediest population—those with nothing in their commissary. If people in federal prisons were regularly provided stamps, they would not have to choose between staying in touch with their families, seeking legal advice from their lawyers, and writing to us to request books that are critical to their survival behind bars.” “For many incarcerated people, the cost of postage is a barrier to staying connected with their loved ones,” said Aleks Kajstura, Sr. Policy & Advocacy Analyst, Prison Policy Initiative. “Improving family contact is critical for the health and reentry outcomes of people in prison. Requiring that the Bureau of Prisons provide stamps to people who cannot afford the cost of sending a letter makes it easier for everyone to achieve those goals.” The bill is cosponsored by Reps. Yvette Clarke, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Eleanor Norton-Holmes, and Nydia Velazquez. It is supported by American Civil Liberties Union, Brennan Center for Justice, Citizens Against Recidivism, Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM), Fortune Society, Justice Action Network, NYC Books Through Bars, Prison Policy Initiative, and Social Workers and Allies Against Solitary Confinement. # # #",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ocasio-cortez-warren-hoyle-wyden-merkley-subramanyam-introduce-bill-ban,"Ocasio-Cortez, Warren, Hoyle, Wyden, Merkley, Subramanyam Introduce Bill to Ban the Corporate Practice of Medicine",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,O000172,ocasio-cortez.house.gov,ocasio-cortez,https://ocasio-cortez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act would ban corporations and private equity from owning physicians. The bill is modeled on the landmark Oregon law that physicians have already used to successfully challenge corporate takeovers. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) along with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced the Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act to ban the corporate practice of medicine. “Across the country, private equity firms and corporate conglomerates are buying up American physician offices. To increase shareholder profits, these entities often cut corners, leading to patients paying more for significantly worse care,” said Representative Ocasio-Cortez. “I’m proud to co-lead the Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act to get Wall Street out of Americans’ doctors’ offices and ban predatory noncompete agreements for healthcare workers.” “Patients want to know that decisions about their health are being made by their doctors, not by Wall Street investors,” said Senator Warren. “If we’re going to lower costs and un-rig the health care system, we need to stop the corporate takeover of medicine.” “Billionaire corporations are using sick patients to turn healthy profits, and Americans are fed up,” said Senator Merkley. “In Oregon, we passed one of the most comprehensive corporate practice of medicine laws in the country, standing up for patients and health care providers. It’s time we take on corporate greed in health care at the federal level by passing our Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act, cracking down on these takeovers that are destroying our health care system.” “Americans want medical decisions to stay between patients and their doctor, not dictated by corporate actors and private equity firms focused on maximizing profits,” said Senator Wyden. “I’m proud of Oregon’s pioneering state law that has been used by doctors to protect their independence, and it’s time to take that model to the federal level. Corporate medicine is making health care more expensive for everyone, and safeguards must be put in place to ensure health care decisions stay in the hands of physicians.” “80% of doctors in the U.S. are employed by corporate entities, up from 62% in 2019,” said Representative Hoyle. “Healthcare should not be a line item in a spreadsheet. The Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act will ensure proper protections are in place, so our healthcare systems serve the best interests of our patients, not corporations.” “Americans want medical decisions to stay between patients and their doctors, not dictated solely by the pursuit of maximizing profits. States have passed laws to protect the independence of physicians, and it’s time to take that model to the federal level. Corporate medicine is making health care more expensive for everyone, and safeguards must be put in place to ensure health care decisions stay in the hands of physicians,” said Representative Subramanyam. “With big bipartisan majorities, Oregon passed the strongest ban on the corporate practice of medicine in the country,” Oregon House Majority Leader Ben Bowman said, the author and chief sponsor of Oregon Senate Bill 951 (2025). “Oregon has shown that it’s possible to stand up to corporate profiteering in healthcare and win. Now it’s time to take that fight nationwide.” Over 80 percent of doctors in the United States are employed by corporate entities—including private equity firms and insurers—up from 62 percent in 2019. Despite prohibitions on the corporate practice of medicine in over thirty states, private equity firms, insurers, and other corporate entities have exploited legal loopholes that allow them to circumvent these restrictions to the detriment of clinicians and patients. Management services organizations (MSOs) have become vehicles for exercising corporate control over physicians. MSOs contract with physician practices to handle ostensibly purely administrative tasks, but these actors often challenge the autonomy of acquired physicians once in control. For example, corporate entities often assume control over clinical operations, management and staffing decisions, and billing and coding practices—all of which can exert pressure on physicians to change care delivery. The Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act ensures health care decisions are made by physicians—not private equity firms, insurance companies, or other corporate actors. The legislation: Bans the corporate practice of medicine by making it illegal for private equity funds, insurance companies, and other for-profit corporations to own or control medical practices; Closes the “friendly physician” loophole that has allowed investor-backed corporations to evade state-level bans on the corporate practice of medicine and control medical practices through MSOs; Prohibits an MSO from controlling a medical practice through a “friendly” or “captive” physician, or by taking over business, administrative, and clinical functions such as hiring and firing, work schedules, compensation, disbursement of revenue or setting of revenue targets, billing practices, contracting, and other services; Ensures that physicians retain ultimate control of medical practices by requiring that physician owners are meaningfully engaged in providing medical care in the state in which their practice is located; and Protects physician independence by prohibiting corporate interference with clinical decisions and banning restrictive contract terms, such as non-compete agreements, nondisclosure agreements, and non-disparagement agreements. The bill is modeled on a landmark law in Oregon that physicians have already used to successfully challenge corporate takeovers in the state. Most recently, Eugene Emergency Physicians beat back efforts by Peace Health to replace local physicians with a private equity-backed staffing company. This legislation is also supported by Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fl.), Yassamin Ansari (D-Az.), Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), and has been endorsed by the American Academy of Emergency Medicine, American Economic Liberties Project (AELP), Coalition for Patient Centered Care, Bull Moose Project, Center for Health and Democracy, OrthoForum, Alliance of Independent Dentists, Private Equity Stakeholder Project, and Association for Independent Medicine. ""The American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM) believes that local physician ownership of their practice is the best arrangement for the physicians, the medical staff, the hospital and, most importantly, for the patient,” said Vicki Norton, MD, FAAEM, President of the AAEM. “That’s why the AAEM strongly supports the Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act of 2026. The bill would prohibit the corporate practice of medicine and allow physicians to work unencumbered, focusing on patients. There is no greater policy imperative for AAEM than protecting patient safety and quality of care in emergency departments through efforts such as this bill.” ""The Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act will strengthen long-standing bans on the corporate practice of medicine, ensuring clinical decisions are made by licensed professionals sworn to care for patients, not corporations beholden to shareholders,"" said Emma Freer, Senior Fellow for Health Care at the American Economic Liberties Project. ""It's an essential step toward breaking up Big Medicine, which drives costs up, quality down, and independent practitioners out of business."" ""States established prohibitions against the corporate practice of medicine a century ago for a simple reason: when corporations start making medical decisions instead of doctors, everyone loses. Care gets worse and more expensive for patients, working conditions get worse for doctors and their staff, and communities lose the unique benefits of high-quality, independent care,"" said Joe Van Wye, Policy Director at Coalition for Patient-Centered Care. ""We commend the sponsors of the Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act for introducing today’s legislation, which will enshrine our nation’s strongest and most effective protections against the corporate practice of medicine into federal law for the benefit of all Americans, and hope it is enacted quickly."" “Patients are best served when clinical decisions and practice operations remain under the control of licensed healthcare professionals, not private equity firms or management companies whose primary obligation may be to investors, says Dr. Jill Tanzi, President of the Alliance of Independent Dentists. ""The threats posed by corporate consolidation are not unique to medicine; dentists and their patients deserve these same protections. This bill’s protections against corporate control and interference are critical safeguards for both clinicians and patients, and we commend its sponsors for working to protect independent medicine."" “Private equity firms and other corporate investors should not get to decide how doctors practice medicine. When investors dictate staffing levels or how much time doctors can spend with patients, they are directing patient care. Doctors need the authority to make those decisions based on what their patients need. We support the Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act and urge Congress to put enforceable limits on corporate control of medical practices,” said Michael Fenne, Senior Policy Coordinator at the Private Equity Stakeholder Project. ""Our health care system is perfectly designed to concentrate wealth and power into corporate entities and increasingly badly designed to actually care for patients. The Oncology Practices of ONCare Alliance are dedicated to helping oncologists remain independent of private equity and other corporate structures that pull needed resources away from patient care into their profit margins,"" said Barbara McAneny, Co-Chair of the OnCARE Alliance. ""We strongly oppose the corporate practice of medicine and commend the sponsors of the Stop Corporate Takeovers of Physicians Act for introducing this important bill that will help doctors design our practices to make the best treatment plans with our patients."" You can read the full text of the bill here. A one-pager of the legislation is available here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases/dam-breaking-congressman-pat-ryans-no-funds-iran-war-act-gains-support-house,“THE DAM IS BREAKING”: CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN’S “NO FUNDS FOR IRAN WAR ACT” GAINS SUPPORT AS HOUSE AGAIN VOTES TO END WAR IN IRAN,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Patrick Ryan,R000579,patryan.house.gov,patryan,https://patryan.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"For more than six months, the Trump Administration has waged war in Iran without Congressional approval, costing Americans more than $100 billion, killing 18 brave U.S. servicemembers, and wounding hundreds more Ryan has voted to end the war six times, with a third consecutive vote passing the House last night with bipartisan support Ryan’s No Funds for Iran War Act – which prohibits the use of additional taxpayer funds for the war in Iran – has also gained steady support and now has more than 60 cosponsors Ryan has been the leading voice of opposition to Trump’s war in Iran; he sits on the House Armed Services Committee, is the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in Congress, and served two combat tours in Iraq earning him two Bronze Stars WASHINGTON, DC – Following last night’s vote to pass a third War Powers Resolution to end President Trump’s war in Iran, Congressman Pat Ryan announced growing support for his No Funds for Iran War Act, legislation to prohibit the use of additional taxpayer dollars on Trump’s war without Congressional approval. The bill now has more than 60 cosponsors. Ryan – an Iraq War combat veteran and the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in Congress – has voted to end Trump’s war in Iran six separate times, with each vote gaining bipartisan support. The resolution last night passed the House of Representatives for a third consecutive time by a vote of 220-204. Trump’s war has now killed 18 brave U.S. troops, injured more than 800, and raised prices across the board on the American people. More than six months into the war with Iran, Ryan is encouraging his colleagues not to give up the fight, and urging Members across the aisle to listen to their constituents and join his efforts to stop the war. “Every single American – from the military families with loved ones deployed overseas, to the farmer buying fertilizer to feed our communities, to the mom filling up her gas tank – is feeling the impact of this reckless war with Iran. The American people want this war to end – and it's past time for Trump, Hegseth, and all their allies in Congress to listen,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Every time we force my Republican colleagues to face the facts, more and more of them vote with us. We’ve now voted three times, in a bipartisan way, to end the war. But Trump continues to ignore the will of the people. My bill to prohibit the use of more taxpayer dollars now has more than 60 cosponsors and would cut off his recklessness at the source. The dam is breaking – we have to keep up the pressure. I’m going to keep fighting everyday, with every fiber of my being, to end this war and bring our troops home.” According to a new report from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), Trump’s war in Iran has caused more than 40 percent of inflation from the second quarter of 2026 and will continue to drive inflation higher into 2027, meaning the cost of basic goods will continue to rise. CBO also stated the U.S. military will not be able to replace munitions for at least five years. A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll found that 61 percent of Americans believe using military force against Iran was a mistake, making Trump’s war as unpopular among Americans as the Iraq War during the peak of violence in 2006 and the Vietnam War in the early 1970s. The Pentagon’s internal overall cost estimate has exceeded $100 billion. That number doesn’t even account for the cost to the American people. Gas prices have soared, as people across NY‐18 have spent an additional $172 million on gas since the beginning of the war, costing the average family in our district an additional $646 in gas costs over the past six months. Grocery prices have also skyrocketed as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Ryan has repeatedly cosponsored and voted in favor of War Powers Resolutions to end the war in Iran six separate times – with bipartisan support for the effort steadily growing: March 5, 2026 – vote fails 212 - 219, with two Republicans voting YEA April 16, 2026 – vote fails 213 - 214, with four Republicans abstaining May 14, 2026 – vote fails after 212 - 212 tie with three Republicans voting YEA June 3, 2026 – vote PASSES 215 - 208, with four Republicans voting YEA July 23, 2026 – vote PASSES 214 - 208, with seven Republicans abstaining September 15, 2026 – vote PASSES 220 - 204, with seven Republicans voting YEA and eight abstaining In May, amid reports that the Pentagon would seek $200B in supplemental funding for the war, Ryan introduced the No Funds for Iran War Act, which would prohibit the use of additional taxpayer funds for military action against Iran in the absence of an Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) or official declaration of war from Congress. Ryan introduced the legislation with the support of his fellow Democratic veterans in Congress, and it has continued to grow in support in the enduring months of the war. In April, Ryan confronted Hegseth himself during a House Armed Services Committee hearing, pressing him on his failure to protect troops at Port Shuaiba. Following new reporting on the strike on Port Shuaiba, Ryan opened an investigation in August into how the Department of Defense failed to provide adequate medical care to service members injured and demanded answers about the Department's lack of preparation for a strike against Port Shuaiba. In July, Ryan spoke on the House floor against handing Hegseth’s Pentagon a $1.5 trillion blank check through the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). He criticized colleagues for again refusing to consider his No Funds for Iran War Act, especially following the successful passage of a War Powers Resolution. “It's personal to me. Having served twenty-seven months in combat in Iraq. Watching us double down on a losing strategy, year after year, while my friends and fellow soldiers – many of whose names are on this memorial bracelet I wear – fought and died. It's personal to the now eighteen families who lost their loved ones in this reckless war in Iran — sons, daughters, husbands, wives, somebody's whole world. It’s personal to the hundreds more wounded, many carrying injuries that will last their entire lives from this war,” Ryan said on the House floor. Ryan’s full floor remarks can be viewed here. Most recently, when the Trump administration tried to downplay the number of casualties in the war, Ryan again joined his Democratic veteran colleagues in demandingthe Administration accurately and transparently account for U.S. servicemembers killed and wounded in the Iran war. Congressman Ryan is a U.S. Army veteran, served two combat tours in Iraq, and is the first West Point graduate to represent the Academy in the U.S. House of Representatives. Amid recent threats to veterans’ benefits, national security concerns, and rising threats worldwide, Congressman Ryan led his fellow veterans in Congress to create the Democratic Veterans Caucus. He sits on the House Armed Services Committee and has led extensive legislation to deliver relief for veterans, servicemembers, and military families. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://riley.house.gov/2026/09/16/house-passes-riley-bill-to-crack-down-on-tranq-the-deadly-sedative-making-fentanyl-even-more-lethal/,"HOUSE PASSES RILEY BILL TO CRACK DOWN ON “TRANQ,” THE DEADLY SEDATIVE MAKING FENTANYL EVEN MORE LETHAL",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Josh Riley,R000622,riley.house.gov,riley,https://riley.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Bipartisan legislation gives law enforcement new tools against xylazine traffickers while protecting veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives has unanimously passed the bipartisan Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, legislation cosponsored by Representative Josh Riley (NY-19) to crack down on xylazine, a veterinary tranquilizer that drug traffickers are increasingly mixing into fentanyl. Also known as “tranq,” xylazine is an easily accessible veterinary tranquilizer that has increasingly been used as a cost-cutting agent in fentanyl. It slows breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure to life-threatening levels, and because it isn’t an opioid, naloxone (Narcan) can’t reverse its sedative effects. Overdose deaths involving xylazine rose nearly 20 fold between 2015 and 2020. The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act would classify xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance so law enforcement can go after traffickers, while preserving access for veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers who rely on the drug to treat large animals. “I’ve sat with too many parents in Upstate New York who lost a child to an overdose, and I will never forget their faces,” said Riley. “I’m doing everything in my power to end the scourge of fentanyl in our communities and crack down on substances like xylazine that make this crisis even more deadly. Our bipartisan bill will make sure law enforcement has the tools they need to stop xylazine traffickers and keep this dangerous drug off our streets.” “We have seen firsthand the devastating toll that fentanyl and other dangerous substances have taken on families in Columbia County,” said Columbia County Sheriff Jacqueline Salvatore. “The addition of xylazine to the illicit drug supply compounds that problem, particularly when it is mixed with fentanyl and other opioids. Giving local law enforcement additional tools to target those who knowingly traffic illicit xylazine will help us address these dangerous drug combinations and the people responsible for putting them into our communities. I appreciate Congressman Riley’s work on this issue and the bipartisan support in the House for legislation that strengthens law enforcement’s ability to keep dangerous drugs off our streets while protecting the legitimate veterinary use of xylazine.” Specifically, The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act will: Schedule xylazine as a Schedule III illicit substance under the Controlled Substances Act; Ensure veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers can still use the drug for its intended purpose by creating a clear definition of “ultimate user” — someone lawfully permitted to possess a controlled substance for legitimate use; Enable the DEA to track its manufacturing to ensure it is not diverted to the illicit market; and Require a report on prevalence, risks, and recommendations regarding xylazine. Riley has made combating the fentanyl crisis a top priority of his since taking office. He has introduced, co-sponsored, and voted for a range of bills to stop fentanyl at the border, in the mail system, and in correctional facilities, while expanding support for addiction recovery: Voted for S. 331, the HALT Fentanyl Act (Senate version), to make all fentanyl-related substances Schedule I and expand research access for addiction treatment. Co-sponsored H.R. 27, the HALT Fentanyl Act (House version), to increase penalties and shut down trafficking loopholes. Introduced the Stop Fentanyl Smuggling Act (H.R. 3078), a bipartisan bill with Rep. Zach Nunn to fund advanced detection technologies at borders and in prisons. Co-sponsored the Marc Fischer Memorial Act (H.R. 1046), to modernize mail screening in federal prisons. Co-sponsored the CATCH Fentanyl Act (H.R. 1569), to support the creation of high-tech pilot programs at land ports of entry. Co-sponsored the Fight Fentanyl Act (H.R. 2964), to give local, state, and federal law enforcement tools and equipment to get fentanyl and illicit substances off the streets. Co-sponsored the Combatting Fentanyl Poisonings Act (H.R. 5573), to establish new grant programs to stop fentanyl dealers, protect law enforcement officers, and educate young people about the dangers of fentanyl. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases/suozzi-d-ny-knott-r-nc-and-over-dozen-national-religious-organizations-urge,"Suozzi (D-NY), Knott (R-NC), and over a Dozen National Religious Organizations Urge Passage of Bipartisan, Bicameral Right to Worship Act",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Thomas R. Suozzi,S001201,suozzi.house.gov,suozzi,https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY) today held a press conference with Right to Worship Act co-lead Congressman Brad Knott (R-NC) and supporters from national endorsing organizations to urge the House and Senate to advance the buffer zone legislation this Congress. The Right to Worship Act would establish a 100-foot, protest-free buffer zone around houses of worship during religious services, making it unlawful to knowingly disrupt or impede people from attending. The bill prohibits conduct that knowingly “hinders,” “deters,” “threatens,” or “intimidates” worshippers trying to enter religious services and would impose civil fines for violations. It authorizes individuals, the U.S. Attorney General, and state attorneys general to sue violators. Peaceful expression protected by the First Amendment is excluded from the bill’s prohibited activities. “Exercising your right to worship should not require you to exhibit particular courage as you enter your synagogue, church, mosque, temple, mandir, or gurdwara,” said Congressman Suozzi. “I will always stand up for people’s right to protest peacefully, but attendees of religious services should not be harassed, threatened, intimidated, or targeted for practicing their faith. I am proud to lead this bipartisan and bicameral Right to Worship Act that both protects free speech and the freedom to worship.” “The breadth of support for the Right to Worship Act is very gratifying. So many groups recognize the horrifying reality that the threat to the freedom to worship is not unique to any one faith or congregation. Every religious community feels it, which is why this bill will protect everybody,” Suozzi continued. “I’m proud to stand with such a broad coalition of faith leaders united behind this essential legislation to safeguard the right to worship for every religious community on Long Island, in Queens, and across America.” “Whether you’re in conservative America, liberal America, red America, or blue America, our Constitution considers your individual right to worship as you see fit. In every corner of this country, that right is being threatened. If people in the United States cannot worship, we do not have a First Amendment. And the right to worship is under attack,” said Congressman Brad Knott (R-NC). “I commend Representative Suozzi for his monumental effort in assembling this team behind us and across the country that was so valuable in crafting this legislation that protects the rights of people who want to speak and protest peacefully. And it protects the rights of those who want to worship.” Congressman Suozzi’s Right to Worship Act follows his earlier introduction of the SACRED Act in April 2026. Suozzi worked with colleagues in both parties and chambers to build bipartisan, bicameral support for his buffer zone legislation, introducing the Right to Worship Act in the House with Congressman Brad Knott (R-NC) last month alongside a companion measure in the Senate by Senators Cruz (R-TX) and Slotkin (D-MI). Suozzi also expanded the coalition of organizations supporting the legislation, securing the endorsement of more than 30 national groups across faiths for the Right to Worship Act. Congressman Suozzi and Congressman Knott were joined by representatives from Anti-Defamation League, National Association of Evangelicals, Jewish Federations of North America, American Muslim and Multifaith Women's Empowerment Council, Hindu American Foundation, UNITED SIKHS, American Jewish Committee, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Orthodox Union, Coalition of Hindus of North America, Hadassah, Agudath Israel of America, StandWithUs, and Combat Antisemitism Movement. “No one should have to push through a hostile crowd or shout over a bullhorn in an attempt to pray. ADL has championed safe worship zone legislation from the beginning, working hand in hand with lawmakers and other key stakeholders to build support and consensus around a critical bipartisan solution. The Right to Worship Act is the product of that work. We are grateful to Senators Cruz and Slotkin and Representatives Knott and Suozzi for their commitment to ensuring everyone, regardless of their faith, can worship freely and safely,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of ADL. “Guaranteeing the right for all citizens to worship and freely practice their faith without fear or intimidation is one of the greatest achievements of our nation. Representatives Brad Knott and Tom Suozzi, and Senators Ted Cruz and Elissa Slotkin are to be commended for their proactive leadership to protect this precious blessing for current and future generations,” said Galen Carey, Vice President of Government Relations for the National Association of Evangelicals. “According to American Jewish Committee’s (AJC) State of Antisemitism in America 2025 Report, 28% of American Jews say that at least one Jewish institution they are affiliated with has been a target of antisemitic incidents in the last five years, and 55% of American Jews altered their behavior in the past year out of fear of antisemitism. At a time of rising threats against Jewish institutions, we applaud Representatives Knott and Suozzi for introducing the bipartisan Right to Worship Act to ensure safe access to houses of worship,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee. “Every community deserves to gather safely in their house of worship. Too often, we've seen Jewish Americans and other faith communities targeted or intimidated simply for practicing their faith. The Right to Worship Act gives law enforcement and communities the tools they need to prevent these disruptions before they escalate, while still respecting every American's First Amendment rights. Safety and religious freedom aren't in tension; this bill shows how we can protect both,” said Hon. Eric D. Fingerhut, President and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America. “As an American Muslim, I believe religious freedom is the birthright of every American. No one—Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, or of any other faith—should ever be intimidated or afraid simply for entering a house of worship. The Right to Worship Act affirms that protecting people while they pray is not a partisan issue; it is an American responsibility,” said Anila Ali, President and CEO of American Muslim and Multifaith Women's Empowerment Council (AMMWEC). ""The Hindu American community commends Representative Tom Suozzi (D-NY) for his bipartisan leadership in spearheading the Right to Worship Act, which is a critical step in safeguarding our places of worship. In recent years, we have seen a disturbing rise in the harassment of devotees and disruption of services at Hindu mandirs across America, which has deeply shaken the sense of safety for our families and devotees. By making it unlawful to intentionally disrupt or harass individuals within 100 feet of a religious establishment and establishing civil penalties, this legislation ensures that our mandirs remain the sacred spaces of peace and community they are meant to be. No American should have to exercise their First Amendment right to pray under the shadow of intimidation or fear,” said Suhag Shukla, Esq., Executive Director at the Hindu American Foundation. “Protecting religious freedom and protecting freedom of expression are not mutually exclusive. Both are essential to a free, diverse, and democratic society. The right to worship freely and the right to express oneself freely go together,” said Gurvinder Singh Gill, International Aid Director of UNITED SIKHS. “BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha welcomes the bipartisan Right to Worship Act, which will help protect houses of worship, including Hindu mandirs, from disruption and intimidation. Four of our mandirs have been vandalized in recent years, and a family should never have to think twice before walking through the door of a house of worship. We are grateful to Representatives Knott and Suozzi for their leadership on this; protecting worship is a fundamentally American issue,” said Mukesh Swaroop, Director of Government Relations for BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. “Tom Suozzi has been an outstanding leader in fighting antisemitism, supporting Israel and standing with American Jewry. His work with Congressman Knott to protect our right to worship is exactly the kind of bipartisan leadership we need. There is no greater friend to the Jewish community than Tom Suozzi,” said Nathan Diament, Executive Director of Advocacy of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (Orthodox Union). ""Few rights are as cherished in America as our freedom to practice the religion of our choosing. But for the American Hindu community that foundational right has felt challenged as more than a dozen temples across the country have faced physical desecration. Since 2022, Hindu temples have seen multiple acts of vandalism, threats and in one case, gunfire, while devotees were inside the temple. These repeated incidents of harassment send a chilling message to the broader Hindu community—s--shattering the sense of solace that should embody a place or worship. Coming amid rising Hinduphobia in the country, this has led to serious concerns among American Hindus about basic security. Thank you, Congressman Tom Souzzi and Congressman Brad Knott, for introducing the Right to Worship Act. This a much-needed step to help ensure that devotees of every faith can visit their places of worship and pray without fear of being targeted or intimidated for simply exercising their First Amendment rights. We appreciate Rep. Suozzi for supporting our community in past years when our temples in New York came under attack, and for responding to our concerns,” said Hitesh Trivedi, COO and NJ Chapter Director of Coalition of Hindus of North America. ""Hadassah has heard from women across the country who have said they are afraid to worship at their synagogues and when they do they spend much of the time anxiously watching the doors for signs of danger. Many of them have been verbally accosted on their way to and from services. We are grateful to Senators Cruz and Slotkin and Representatives Knott and Suozzi for their leadership in introducing the bipartisan Right to Worship Act to address this critical issue. The legislation would establish a 100-foot ‘protection zone’ outside houses of worship and prohibit conduct that impedes entry or disrupts services. We urge Congress to advance this legislation as quickly as possible. Americans should never feel unsafe when practicing their faith,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, National President of Hadassah. “Religious liberty cannot exist only on paper. It must exist in practice. Because the freedom to worship means very little without the freedom to worship without fear,” said Rabbi Yossie Charner, Director of Congressional Affairs at Agudath Israel of America. “StandWithUs spends much of its time defending the First Amendment, which protects both the right to speak and the right to worship. It does not ask Americans to choose between them, and neither does this bill. The Right to Worship Act draws a clear and narrow line: say what you want, but you may not drown out a religious service or frighten a family away from the door. We are grateful to Congressman Suozzi, Congressman Knott, and Senators Cruz and Slotkin for this bipartisan bill that protects both parts of our first freedom, and we urge Congress to pass it this year,” said Hadas Alterman, Director of Legislative Strategy at StandWithUs. “America was founded by individuals who came seeking religious freedom. The right to worship, free from harassment and discrimination, was paramount. More recently, however, in America, harassers have been emboldened, while the faithful have been abandoned. This is particularly true for Jews in America who, in the aftermath of October 7th, have had to endure violent threats and intimidating harassment just to enter synagogues to practice their faith and gather as a community. The Right to Worship Act protects two First Amendment rights – to speech and to the free exercise of religion. By balancing both of these rights, the bill ensures that Jews, and members of all faiths, are able to worship and study in peace. We commend Representatives Suozzi and Knott and Senators Cruz and Slotkin for their bipartisan leadership and look forward to Congress swiftly advancing this common-sense measure into law,” said Alyza Lewin, President of US Affairs at Combat Antisemitism Movement. The Right to Worship Act has been endorsed by more than 30 national groups, including: ADL (Anti-Defamation League) Agudath Israel of America aish American Jewish Committee (AJC) American Muslim & Multifaith Women's Empowerment Council (AMMWEC) BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations End Jew Hatred First Liberty Institute Hadassah Hindu American Foundation (HAF) Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Israel-American Coalition for Action Jewish Federations of North America Kol Yisrael National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) National Jewish Advocacy Center New York Board of Rabbis NORPAC North American Division of Seventh-day Adventist Church Orthodox Union Rabbinical Assembly StandWithUs The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) UJA-Federation of New York Union for Reform Judaism UNITED SIKHS United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-highlights-fort-ontario-legislation-house-natural,Congresswoman Tenney Highlights Fort Ontario Legislation at House Natural Resources Committee Hearing,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today highlighted her Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historical Park Establishment Act (H.R. 1031) during a House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands legislative hearing, where Oswego County Clerk Terry Wilbur, a lifelong resident of Oswego County, testified in support of preserving Fort Ontario’s historic legacy for future generations. Fort Ontario has played an important role in American history, including during the French and Indian War and the War of 1812. From 1944 to 1946, the site also served as “Safe Haven,” the only refugee shelter established in the United States for victims fleeing the Holocaust, providing refuge to 982 predominantly Jewish refugees escaping Nazi persecution. Tenney’s legislation would bring national recognition and permanent federal support to this history by establishing parts of Fort Ontario within the National Park System. The proposal would preserve the State Historic Site under state management and maintain the central role of the City of Oswego, Oswego County, and local organizations in preserving and interpreting the site. “Fort Ontario holds a remarkable place in both Oswego County’s history and our nation’s history, and its story deserves to be preserved for generations to come,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “As the number of Holocaust survivors continues to decline, we have a responsibility to ensure the story of the 982 refugees who found safety in Oswego is never forgotten. Today’s hearing is an important step toward giving Fort Ontario the national recognition it deserves. I am especially grateful to Oswego County Clerk Terry Wilbur, a lifelong resident of our community, for bringing Oswego County’s voice to Congress and demonstrating the strong local commitment to protecting this historic site.” “Fort Ontario is an important part of Oswego County’s history and the story of Jewish refugees who escaped Nazi persecution and found safety here,” said Oswego County Clerk Terry Wilbur. “I was honored to represent our community and testify before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee in support of H.R. 1031. Federal recognition would help preserve their stories, teach future generations about the dangers of antisemitism, and bring national attention to this part of our county’s history. I thank Congresswoman Tenney for her leadership in moving this legislation forward.” This legislation is supported by the American Jewish Committee, Jewish Federation of North America, Anti Defamation League, Combat Antisemitism Movement, and Zionist Organization for America: “At a moment when antisemitism is rising and Holocaust knowledge is fading, preserving places of witness is an urgent national responsibility. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report found that Americans with greater knowledge about the Holocaust are much more likely to recognize antisemitism and to see it as a problem. Fort Ontario is an irreplaceable site of American Holocaust and refugee history, and establishing it as a National Historical Park will both preserve the story of the refugees who sheltered there and help future generations understand the impact of antisemitism. AJC thanks Representatives Tenney and Suozzi for their bipartisan leadership on this initiative,” said Julie Rayman, Senior Vice President of Policy and Political Affairs, American Jewish Committee. “At a time when firsthand witnesses to the Holocaust are becoming fewer, preserving the places and stories that document this history is increasingly important. Fort Ontario offers future generations a tangible connection to the experiences of Holocaust refugees who found safety on American soil, highlighting the consequences of persecution and the importance of providing refuge to those fleeing it. Jewish Federations of North America are proud to support H.R. 1031 and thank Representatives Claudia Tenney and Tom Suozzi for their leadership in preserving this important chapter of American and Jewish history,” said Eric D. Fingerhut, President and CEO, Jewish Federations of North America. “Fort Ontario is one of the few remaining places in America that can tell the story of Holocaust survivors’ experience firsthand. As the number of living survivors dwindles and Holocaust denial and distortion spread online, preserving sites like Fort Ontario is essential. ADL strongly supports the passage of H.R. 1031, which would conserve the site for generations to come,” said Lauren Wolman, Senior Director of Government Relations and Strategy, Anti-Defamation League (ADL). “As antisemitism continues to rise in the United States and around the world, and fewer Holocaust survivors remain to share their stories, we must preserve historical sites like Safe Haven at Fort Ontario for generations to come. The Holocaust Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario provided sanctuary during one of history’s darkest moments, and it deserves recognition in the National Park System. In 1944, Fort Ontario became home to 982 refugees (almost all of whom were Jewish) fleeing Nazi persecution and the horrors of the Holocaust. Designating it a National Historical Park will ensure future generations encounter this history firsthand, long after the last survivors are gone. The Combat Antisemitism Movement commends Rep. Claudia Tenney for her leadership on the Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historical Park Establishment Act and for spearheading this important effort to preserve Fort Ontario’s legacy,” said Alyza D. Lewin, President of U.S. Affairs, Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM). “As antisemitism continues to rise in the United States and around the world, and fewer Holocaust survivors remain to share their stories, we must preserve historical sites like Safe Haven at Fort Ontario for generations to come. The Holocaust Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario provided sanctuary during one of history’s darkest moments, and it deserves recognition in the National Park System. In 1944, Fort Ontario became home to 982 refugees (almost all of whom were Jewish) fleeing Nazi persecution and the horrors of the Holocaust. Designating it a National Historical Park will ensure future generations encounter this history firsthand, long after the last survivors are gone. The Combat Antisemitism Movement commends Rep. Claudia Tenney for her leadership on the Fort Ontario Holocaust Refugee Shelter National Historical Park Establishment Act and for spearheading this important effort to preserve Fort Ontario’s legacy,” said Morton A. Klein, President, Zionist Organization of America (ZOA).",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4647,"Tonko, Heinrich & Budzinski Introduce Good Energy Jobs Act",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Paul Tonko,T000469,tonko.house.gov,tonko,https://tonko.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representatives Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) today introduced the Good Energy Jobs Act, legislation that would codify labor and community benefit requirements, mandating that financial assistance delivered by the Department of Energy (DOE) supports high-quality jobs, broad community benefits, domestic manufacturing, and investment in small and disadvantaged communities During the Biden administration, the Department of Energy delivered significant financial assistance contingent on strong labor standards, including support for disadvantaged communities and more. The result was a boom in private sector energy investments, resulting in massive growth in high-quality construction and energy technology manufacturing jobs throughout the county. The Good Energy Jobs Act would build upon this progress. “I’ve always believed that investing in people and communities is the surest way to strengthen our economy,” Congressman Tonko said. “Our Good Energy Jobs Act takes that principle to heart, building on the successes of our Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act with strong labor standards that create good-paying, union jobs and drive community development. Our legislation envisions a future where the Department of Energy isn’t just an ATM for project developers, but a partner in building a more prosperous economy for everyone. I’m thankful to my colleagues for standing with me to introduce this legislation, and urge Congress to join us in advancing this commonsense bill.” ""If we want to build the next generation of American energy infrastructure, we need to empower the union men and women who are going to build it,” Congresswoman Budzinski said. “This legislation ensures that workers are paid family-sustaining wages and have a fair shot at organizing, while also ensuring that projects drive local economic development on the front-end through clear, binding commitments. I’m honored to lead this bill with Congressman Tonko and Ranking Member Heinrich and proud to have the support of so many labor unions who see the impact this bill will have on America's workforce and the communities their members call home.” “My dad was an IBEW lineman, and he spent his career helping keep the lights on for our community. His union job gave him the ability to provide for our family, buy a home, and give my siblings and me opportunities that neither of my parents had growing up. That's what a good energy job can do: it doesn’t just power our homes and our economy — it can power the American dream,” said Heinrich. “That’s why, when we invest taxpayer dollars in America’s energy future, those investments should create good-paying jobs, strengthen American manufacturing, and deliver real benefits to the communities where projects are built.” This legislation is endorsed by several of the nation’s leading labor and environmental organizations, including: BlueGreen Alliance, Communications Workers of America; International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART); International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; International Brotherhood of Teamsters; Iron Workers International; Laborers' International Union of North America; League of Conservation Voters; National Wildlife Federation; ReImagine Appalachia; Sierra Club; and United Steelworkers. Quotes from supporting organizations can be found HERE. A fact sheet of the bill can be found HERE. A section by section summary can be found HERE.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/velazquez-and-davidson-reintroduce-bill-help-legal-cannabis-businesses,Velázquez and Davidson Reintroduce Bill to Help Legal Cannabis Businesses Obtain Insurance,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Nydia M. Velázquez,V000081,velazquez.house.gov,velazquez,https://velazquez.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON —Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) reintroduced the Clarifying Law Around Insurance of Marijuana, or CLAIM Act, legislation that would shield insurers from federal criminal prosecution and protect brokers, agents, and insurers from civil liability when they serve businesses in the state-legal cannabis industry. “Because of the conflict between federal and state law, insurers are still hesitant to write policies for cannabis businesses,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “That means thousands of legal small businesses are operating without a safety net. One fire or one storm could wipe out everything an owner has built, with no way to recover. The CLAIM Act fixes this by giving these entrepreneurs access to the same basic insurance protections every other legal business takes for granted.” “Businesses operating legally under state law should be free to purchase insurance, and insurers should be free to serve them,” said Rep. Davidson. “The federal government should not use regulation to interfere with lawful commerce or override decisions made by the states. The CLAIM Act removes that federal interference and protects the freedom of insurers and their customers to do business."" The CLAIM Act is endorsed by a broad coalition of insurance industry organizations, including the American Land Title Association, American Council of Life Insurers, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers, Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, National Association of Professional Insurance Agents, Reinsurance Association of America, and Wholesale & Specialty Insurance Association. The legislation also directs the Government Accountability Office to study the barriers facing women and minority entrepreneurs seeking to enter the cannabis industry and identify ways to expand access to this growing market. The text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6481,Lawler Pushes to Ensure Data Center Growth Benefits New York Communities as Ratepayer Protection Act Passes House,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/16/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) released the following statement after H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, bipartisan legislation to ensure large electricity customers pay the costs associated with the additional strain they place on the electric grid, passed the House. The bill is designed to prevent existing residents and small businesses from being forced to subsidize the infrastructure costs created by data centers. The bill passed the House with a vote of 417-3. In July 2026, this legislation advanced through the House Energy and Commerce Committee by a unanimous vote of 52-0. WATCH: CONGRESSMAN LAWLER DEBATE IN FAVOR OF RATEPAYER PROTECTION ACT ON HOUSE FLOOR The issue is particularly relevant in New York, where years of failed energy policies out of Albany have driven electricity costs among the highest in the country. In February, the average residential electricity price in New York was approximately 70 percent higher than the national average. At the same time, data centers seeking to connect to New York’s electric grid have reportedly requested more than 9,000 megawatts of additional electricity. “New York families and businesses already face some of the highest electricity costs in the country. As we work to bring new investment and jobs to New York, we cannot ask families and small businesses to foot the bill for the massive infrastructure costs created by new data centers and other energy-intensive facilities,” said Congressman Lawler. “If a company is creating significant new demand on our electric grid, it should be responsible for the costs that come with that demand, not New York ratepayers. We can support innovation, investment, and good-paying jobs while making sure hardworking families aren’t left holding the bill,” concluded Congressman Lawler.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://garbarino.house.gov/media/press-releases/garbarino-gillibrand-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-reimburse-public,"Garbarino, Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reimburse Public Retirement Systems for 9/11-Related Disability and Death Benefits",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Andrew R. Garbarino,G000597,garbarino.house.gov,garbarino,https://garbarino.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reimburse public employee retirement systems for costs associated with accidental disability retirements and accidental deaths resulting from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Garbarino and Gillibrand were joined by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Representatives Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), Jerry Nadler (D-NY-12), and Dan Goldman (D-NY-10) as co-leads of the legislation. Twenty-five years after September 11th, thousands of first responders and others who participated in rescue and cleanup operations continue to suffer from illnesses and injuries connected to their service at Ground Zero. As more members of the 9/11 community have developed serious health conditions or lost their lives to 9/11-related illnesses, public employee retirement systems have faced growing costs associated with disability retirement and death benefits. The legislation would authorize $5.9134 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reimburse eligible public employee retirement systems for those costs. To qualify, a retirement system must include a member who participated in rescue, recovery, or cleanup operations resulting from the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center. Reimbursements would be restricted for use by the eligible retirement systems. “Twenty-five years after September 11th, New York is still carrying costs from that terrible day, just as responders and their families are still living with its consequences,” said Congressman Garbarino. “The men and women who ran toward danger and spent months working at Ground Zero did so without hesitation. As more of them have become sick or lost their lives because of that work, New York’s public retirement systems have rightfully provided the disability and death benefits they earned. The federal government has a responsibility to help cover the costs directly tied to the attacks. Senator Gillibrand and I are committed to making sure New York and the 9/11 community are not left to shoulder that burden alone.” ""Twenty-five years after the darkest day in our nation's history, we must continue to honor our promise to never forget,"" said Senator Gillibrand. “The victims of September 11th are not just the men and women killed on that terrible day – countless American lives continue to be claimed by illnesses linked to the attacks. With New York pension systems facing a shortfall as a result, we must act now to ensure those injured and sickened from recovery efforts and the families of our heroes are not worried about receiving every dollar they deserve. I am grateful this bill has strong bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, and I will work with my colleagues to get it swiftly passed and signed into law."" ""'Never forget' is not just a slogan. It's a promise to stand by our 9/11 heroes and their families for as long as it takes, and that promise includes making sure the pensions they and their families are owed are never shortchanged. Just days after our city marked the 25th anniversary of 9/11, I'm proud to support this bill so the federal government continues to do its part and support our first responders who rushed to help at our city’s darkest hour,"" said Senator Schumer. ""New York's pension systems have proudly stood behind the survivors and first responders of the September 11th attacks, especially as they developed illnesses because of their service that day. But that support has come at a steep cost, and it's time for the federal government to help carry the load. I'm proud to co-lead this legislation, which would reimburse New York's pension systems for the costs of supporting our 9/11 heroes. These brave Americans deserve our eternal gratitude, and this bill helps make good on that promise,” said Congressman Dan Goldman. “Twenty-five years after September 11th, we must continue standing with the first responders and members of the 9/11 community who risked their lives during the rescue, recovery, and cleanup efforts. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this bipartisan legislation to honor their heroism and sacrifice and ensure they and their families receive the benefits they earned and deserve. We will never forget,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “On September 11, 2001, New York City’s bravest and finest ran toward the danger to rescue neighbors and strangers alike. In the days, weeks, and months that followed, thousands more helped clean and rebuild Lower Manhattan. It is our duty to honor the sacrifices of the first responders of 9/11 by making sure these heroes and their families can receive the pensions they earned,” said Congressman Jerry Nadler. ""Fully funding the World Trade Center Health Program has been a priority for the union movement, but more work remains. This bipartisan legislation addresses the continued costs of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the New York State and City Pension systems. The federal government must reimburse the State and City for costs related to death and disability payments. Failing to cover these costs unfairly threatens future retirees' pensions. We are deeply grateful for the leadership of Rep. Garbarino, Senator Gillibrand, and the entire New York delegation in ensuring the federal government follows through on its responsibility to cover all costs related to the attacks,” said Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO. “The recent disclosures from the City of New York show that we are still learning about the full extent of the health effects of the toxic chemicals at Ground Zero. Congressman Garbarino (R-NY) and Senators Gillibrand (D-NY), Schumer (D-NY), and their colleagues deserve our thanks for working to introduce bipartisan legislation dealing with the increased costs to the New York pension systems of those who are retiring and some who are dying because of the health effects of 9/11—just part of the continuing costs of that day, both in lives and health impacts, 25 years later,” said Ben Chevat, Executive Director of the Citizens for Extension of the James Zadroga Act. ""25 years after the 9/11 Terror Attacks, New York City still primarily shoulders the responsibility of caring for our fallen brothers and sisters and those forced into early retirement. I thank Senator Gillibrand and Representative Garbarino for fighting to secure the federal funding needed to strengthen the pensions of those who stood on the front lines of public safety that day. This critical legislation will ensure that the costs of 9/11-related deaths and medical retirements will no longer be borne by New York City and State alone. I urge Congress to pass this important legislation as soon as possible,” said IAFF General President Edward Kelly. “The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, were an attack upon our nation, and the heroism displayed by New York’s first responders during the rescue and recovery efforts that followed gave all Americans the hope and the strength to rebuild,” said President Vincent Vallelong of the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association. “On numerous occasions, Congress has recognized the federal government’s obligation to support these brave men and women through programs such as the World Trade Center Health Program and Victim Compensation Fund. Like those efforts, this legislation recognizes that the extraordinary pension costs resulting from a national terrorist attack are a federal responsibility and will ensure that NYPD officers, retirees, and their families receive the benefits they have earned. We are grateful for the leadership of Rep. Garbarino, Sen. Gillibrand, and their colleagues for introducing this bill, and we urge Congress to swiftly enact it into law.” The bill requires the FEMA Administrator to reimburse eligible public employee retirement systems for costs related to accidental disability retirements and accidental deaths resulting from participation in the rescue, recovery, or cleanup operations following the September 11 attacks. It authorizes $5,913,400,000 for Fiscal Year 2027 to carry out the reimbursements. Garbarino and Gillibrand have consistently worked together on a bipartisan basis to support the 9/11 community and ensure responders and their families receive the benefits and care they have earned.",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6477,"Reps. Lawler, Gottheimer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Stop Rogue AI Agents and Keep People In Control",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Michael Lawler,L000599,lawler.house.gov,lawler,https://lawler.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – 9/15/26… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced the bipartisan Stop Rogue AI Act to ensure businesses and federal agencies can see rogue and dangerous AI agents operating inside their own networks and stop them before they cause real damage. The Stop Rogue AI Act would direct the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), to develop national standards, guidelines, and best practices for discovering, verifying, and controlling AI agents. “AI agents are becoming more capable and more deeply integrated into our government and economy. We need to make sure we know what these systems are, what they can access, and who is responsible for them. We can harness the benefits of AI while making sure these systems don’t operate in the shadows of the networks they have access to,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. “Right now, AI agents are running loose in our networks, and nobody can see them or verify who built them, making it increasingly hard to stop them. That’s a five-alarm security risk. We’ve already seen AI systems hack organizations on autopilot, with no person at the wheel. My bipartisan bill with Congressman Lawler puts humans back in the driver’s seat so we can find agents and know exactly who’s behind them so that organizations can effectively protect their systems,” said Congressman Gottheimer. Under the bill, those standards will provide guidance to organizations on how to: Find and track every AI agent operating on their systems, in a continuous, easily readable inventory; Verify who built and operates each agent, using verifiable identity and provenance, not just a vendor’s word; Monitor agents in real time, including detecting prompt injection, data theft, and agents behaving outside their approved limits; and Allow, deny, or revoke an agent’s access, actions, and interactions at any time, so people have the final say over what it can access or do. The bill also requires federal contractors and agencies to build these safeguards into how they buy and deploy AI agents, and directs NIST and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to fold the standards into existing federal cybersecurity guidance. Full text of the bill can be found HERE. Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenneys-end-tax-penalties-american-hostages-act-passes-house,Congresswoman Tenney’s End Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act Passes the House,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced that the House of Representatives unanimously passed her End Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9496).This commonsense legislation would ensure Americans held hostage or unlawfully or wrongfully detained abroad are not punished by the IRS for missing tax deadlines during captivity. The End Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act would pause certain federal tax deadlines for U.S. nationals during captivity and extend these protections to their spouses. The legislation would require the Departments of State and Justice to provide the IRS with information identifying eligible Americans so they can receive these protections. The bill would also require the IRS to abate and refund applicable interest, penalties, and additional taxes assessed because deadlines were missed during captivity. It would establish a process for eligible Americans, their spouses, or dependents to seek refunds for applicable penalties and interest dating back to January 1, 2021. “Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained overseas have already endured unimaginable hardship. They should never return home to IRS penalties for tax deadlines they could not meet,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Families fighting to bring their loved ones home should be focused on their safety and recovery, not worrying about missed IRS deadlines. The End Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act fixes this injustice and ensures our tax code treats these Americans and their families with fairness and compassion. Today’s House passage brings us one step closer to making these protections law.”",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/15/house-democrats-litigation-task-force-leads-150-current-and-former-house-democrats-republicans-in-urging-supreme-court-to-block-trump-dhs-voter-purge-database/,House Democrats’ Litigation Task Force Leads 150+ Current and Former House Democrats & Republicans in Urging Supreme Court to Block Trump DHS Voter Purge Database,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — For the second time in two weeks, current and former Members of the House of Representatives are challenging the Trump administration’s ongoing attempt to unconstitutionally exercise control over election administration and create chaos in the upcoming midterm elections. Today’s action follows the Litigation Task Force’s successful advocacy before the Supreme Court and the denial of Donald Trump’s attempts to restrict mail-in ballots. 154 current and former Members from the House of Representatives, Democratic and Republican, filed an amicus brief at the U.S. Supreme Court urging the justices to halt the Trump administration’s efforts to build and make available a massive illegal database containing the personal information of hundreds of millions of Americans. The expanded system, which links information from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration, unlawfully puts Americans’ most sensitive personal information at risk while relying on questionable data that federal agents have raised concerns may be inaccurate. Those errors could result in eligible U.S. citizens being improperly flagged and removed from voter rolls, potentially denying an untold number of Americans their constitutional right to vote. The coalition filed its amicus brief in League of Women Voters v. Department of Homeland Security, arguing that the administration’s efforts to create and use this database violate the law on two main grounds. First, the database violates the Privacy Act, enacted by Congress in the 1970s in part to prevent the creation of a “centralized Federal information system” that would consolidate Americans’ sensitive information stored across federal agencies. And second, Congress has repeatedly declined to authorize the creation of state-by-state citizenship lists, most recently by failing to advance the SAVE Act and SAVE America Act, and so the Trump Administration is unconstitutionally violating the separation of powers by attempting to achieve through lawless executive action what it failed to achieve through legislation. Click HERE to read the brief in its entirety. The bipartisan group is led by Assistant House Minority Leader Joe Neguse, who leads the House Democrats’ Litigation Task Force; Task Force Co-Chairs Oversight Ranking Member Robert Garcia and Judiciary Ranking Member Jamie Raskin; as well as House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Administration Ranking Member Joe Morelle, and Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson. The Republican lawmakers that joined this court filing include former Representatives Charles W. Boustany, Jr. (2005-2017), Barbara Comstock (2015-2019), Mickey Edwards (1977-1993), James C. Greenwood (1993-2005), Steve Gunderson (1981-1997), John LeBoutillier (1981-1983), Susan Molinari (1990-1997), Claudine Schneider (1981-1991), Peter Smith (1989-1991), and David Trott (2015-2019). Keep scrolling to see what the leading lawmakers had to say about the matter: “House Democrats’ Litigation Task Force will continue to vindicate our constitution and fight back against Donald Trump efforts to disenfranchise American citizens,” said House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse. “The president’s plan to create federal lists that dictate who can and cannot vote in elections is not only violative of laws enacted by Congress but also relies on questionable data Homeland Security agents themselves have said will result in an untold number of lawful citizens losing their right to vote. It is an attempt to sow chaos ahead of the 2026 midterms and must be struck down by the Supreme Court — immediately.” “Trump’s asking the courts to let his Administration create the very federal database Congress repeatedly declined to authorize: a comprehensive Orwellian system that collects and shares Americans’ most sensitive personal information while creating the risk of wrongly purging eligible voters from the rolls. I’m proud to stand strong with my colleagues urging the Supreme Court to protect individual Americans’ privacy and voting rights—and the integrity of our free and fair elections—from this outrageous and illegal power grab,” said Ranking Member Jamie Raskin. “The Trump Administration is trying to create a massive database of Americans’ sensitive personal information that could disenfranchise voters across the country. This system relies on incomplete data that directly targets the right to privacy and the right to vote. We are urging the Supreme Court to stop this immediately and protect Americans’ right to vote,” said Ranking Member Robert Garcia. “No matter how hard he tries, Donald Trump will never succeed in taking over our elections,” said Leader Jeffries. “I am grateful to Reps. Neguse, Garcia, Raskin, Morelle and Bennie Thompson and the Litigation Task Force for leading House Democrats in this latest effort to stand up to Donald Trump’s ongoing unlawful and unconstitutional effort to sow chaos ahead of the midterms, deny eligible Americans the right to vote and exert undue federal control over our elections.” “Democrats and Republicans agree – this Administration cannot ignore Congress. Once again, Trump is mounting a wildly illegal attack on our elections. Presidents do not control our elections. The American people do,” said Ranking Member Joe Morelle. “There’s a reason our Constitution gives states and Congress the power to manage our elections: to stop despots like Donald Trump,” added Ranking Member Bennie G. Thompson. “The Supreme Court must stop Trump’s illegal actions to create error-ridden citizen databases to disenfranchise voters and rig our elections.” Background The Litigation Task Force launched in the first month that followed President Donald Trump’s chaotic return to office. We immediately set out to push back against an administration showing no respect for the Constitution or rule of law—and haven’t stopped since. In the fight to protect American election security: last Tuesday, the Task Force urged the Supreme Court to block Trump’s Executive Order seeking to exert control over mail-in ballots ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. As noted above, less than a week later, the Court agreed and barred the USPS from putting the challenged mail-ballot requirements into effect for the 2026 midterm election. For more information on the Litigation Task Force’s efforts to protect Americans against the unlawful actions of the Trump administration, visit litigationandresponse.house.gov.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-suozzi-led-bipartisan-bill-protect-fraud-victims-tax-penalties,House Passes Suozzi-Led Bipartisan Bill to Protect Fraud Victims from Tax Penalties,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Thomas R. Suozzi,S001201,suozzi.house.gov,suozzi,https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—The House today passed H.R. 9500, the Tax Relief for Fraud Victims Act, a bipartisan bill co-led by Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY) to ensure victims of fraud are not forced to pay taxes on the money scammers stole from them. This bill would restore the theft loss deduction for victims of scams and fraud, which was removed in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, allowing them to deduct qualifying losses from their taxes. It would also waive the 10% early withdrawal penalty charged to victims under age 60 who are forced to take money from their 401(k) or IRA as part of the fraud scheme. Importantly, the bill provides retroactive relief for victims who fell prey to scams up to five years ago while the deduction was restricted. “Americans are being scammed at unbelievable rates, and our seniors are especially vulnerable. Right now, victims of fraud and theft are hit twice: first by the scammer, and then by the IRS when they’re taxed on the money stolen from them,” said Congressman Suozzi. “The Tax Relief for Fraud Victims Act would right this wrong by ensuring victims are not taxed on the money they lost to scams, and provide essential retroactive relief for those who have already been saddled with tens of thousands of dollars in tax penalties on money they no longer have. I’m proud to have led this bipartisan, commonsense bill to restore the theft loss deduction and provide fraud victims the relief they deserve.” Fraud is increasingly costly for Americans. Consumers reported more than $15 billion in fraud losses to the Federal Trade Commission in 2025, a 25% increase from the year prior. The impact is particularly devastating for older Americans. AARP reports that four in ten older Americas have lost money to fraud, amounting to $7.7 billion in losses reported by people aged 60 and older in 2025—60% more than the previous year. These numbers are likely underreported, with the FTC estimating that Americans could be losing almost $200 billion to criminals each year. The Tax Relief for Fraud Victims Act recognizes this reality and would restore the theft loss deduction, waive the 10% early withdrawal penalty, and provide retroactive relief to ensure no victims of scams are unfairly penalized or taxed on the money stolen from them by scammers. Watch Congressman Suozzi’s floor remarks on the Tax Relief for Fraud Victims Act here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://gillen.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gillen-presents-five-recovered-service-medals-and-decorations-awarded-late,Rep. Gillen Presents Five Recovered Service Medals and Decorations Awarded to Late Garden City Veteran to His Family,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Laura Gillen,G000602,gillen.house.gov,gillen,https://gillen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GARDEN CITY, NY — Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) presented Nicholas Maggio and his family with five medals and decorations earned by Nicholas’ grandfather, Private Angelo A. Maggio from Garden City, for his service in the U.S. Army in Germany following World War II. The medals and decorations recognize Private Maggio’s honorable service, military proficiency and exemplary conduct during his time in the Army. ""Our veterans have made extraordinary sacrifices in service to our country. Their legacy deserves to be remembered,"" said Rep. Gillen. ""It is my privilege to reunite Nicholas Maggio and his family with his late grandfather's prestigious medals and decorations, which he earned for his exceptional military service after World War II during the occupation of Germany. We owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who has worn the uniform and served our nation. I’m honored to present these medals and work every day on behalf of our veterans and their families."" “Receiving my grandfather’s medals is a meaningful way to honor his life, service, and memory,” said grandson of Angelo Maggio, Nicholas Maggio. “Our family will display them alongside his flag and pass them down to future generations. Two of his grandchildren, my sister Angelina and I, were named after him, and we are proud to carry on his name. I will always remember how he slept in a chair so I could be comfortable when I was afraid, and how he chased our school bus to wave goodbye. These memories reflect the loving, dependable, and devoted person he was. His wisdom, honesty, and strength continue to influence our family. We are deeply grateful to Laura Gillen’s office for helping us recover his medals, which we will treasure for generations to come.” Born in Pietrapertosa, Italy, Angelo Maggio immigrated to the United States and served in the military from 1954 to 1956, followed by six years in the Army Reserve. In 1970, he settled in Elmhurst, Queens, where he worked and raised his family. Angelo later moved to Garden City in 1998. When Nicholas reached out for assistance, Rep. Gillen’s office worked closely with him to navigate the National Archives and Records Administration and recover the medals and decorations. The five commendations awarded to Angelo Maggio included: Good Conduct Medal: Awarded for exemplary conduct, efficiency and fidelity during a qualifying period of active military service. Army of Occupation Medal with Germany Clasp: Recognizes qualifying occupation duty in Germany following World War II. National Defense Service Medal: Awarded for honorable active service during a designated period of national emergency or armed conflict. Expert Badge with Carbine Bar: Recognizes qualification at the Army’s highest marksmanship level with a carbine rifle. Sharpshooter Badge with Pistol Bar: Recognizes qualification at the Army’s intermediate marksmanship level with a pistol. Rep. Gillen’s office is committed to helping residents of New York’s Fourth congressional district navigate federal agencies and access the benefits and services they are owed. Contact Rep. Gillen’s office for assistance with veterans' benefits, replacing or obtaining lost military service medals, Social Security, immigration matters, IRS issues or other issues with federal agencies. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/14/joint-leadership-statement-on-motion-to-table-h-res-1486/,JOINT LEADERSHIP STATEMENT ON MOTION TO TABLE H.RES.1486,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar issued the following statement: Donald Trump’s out-of-control behavior continues to put the health, safety and economic well-being of the American people at risk. At the same time, House Republicans have zero interest in holding this corrupt administration accountable. When Republicans gained full control of government this year, they promised to lower the cost of living on day one. Costs haven’t gone down, they’ve gone up. Life in America is more expensive and Republicans have not done a damn thing to address the affordability crisis. In fact, Donald Trump believes it’s a hoax. House Democrats remain laser-focused on lowering the high cost of groceries, gas and goods and making healthcare affordable for every single American in this great country. At the same time, House Democrats will restore the constitutional role of Congress as a check and balance on an out-of-control executive branch. Impeachment is a sacred constitutional vehicle designed to hold a corrupt executive accountable for abuse of power, breaking the law and violating the public trust. The effort traditionally requires a comprehensive investigative process, the collection and review of thousands of documents, an exacting scrutiny of the facts, the examination of dozens of key witnesses, Congressional hearings, sustained public organizing and the marshaling of the forces of democracy to build a broad national consensus. None of that serious work has been done, with the Republican majority focused solely on rubber stamping Donald Trump’s extreme agenda. Accordingly, we will again vote “present” on the motion to table the impeachment resolution as we continue our fight to make life more affordable for everyday Americans, while committing to holding the crooks accountable using every tool available to us beginning on day one. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/14/leader-jeffries-the-affordability-crisis-in-the-united-states-of-america-is-not-a-hoax/,LEADER JEFFRIES: “THE AFFORDABILITY CRISIS IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IS NOT A HOAX”,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke at a press conference, where he emphasized that as President Trump and Republicans continue to fail to make life better for the American people, House Democrats are committed to rooting out corruption and fighting for an affordable America. LEADER JEFFRIES: The affordability crisis in the United States of America is not a hoax. It’s very real. Life is far too expensive in the United States of America. Millions of people are working hard and playing by the rules, but they can’t thrive and can barely survive. That’s why House Democrats are continuing to work hard and fight for an affordable America so we can lower the high cost of living and ensure that everyday Americans can live a good life, an affordable life and a comfortable life. The Epstein scandal—that’s not a hoax. And the Epstein survivors deserve accountability and transparency, and that’s why House Democrats are continuing to push back aggressively against the Department of Justice’s ongoing cover-up of the Epstein files. The explosive growth of artificial intelligence and the challenges that are therein presented—that’s not a hoax. It’s very real, despite what Donald Trump has to say about that issue as well, and it requires decisive congressional action immediately in a manner consistent with what some of the leading AI voices in the country are now saying needs to happen as it relates to slowing things down to protect the health, the safety and the well-being of the American people. There are 50 days until the American people will have an ability to move things in this country in a different direction. We have a president right now uninterested in solving the challenges confronting the American people. Instead, he continues to publicly and brazenly make the unhinged observation that these challenges, including the affordability crisis and the safety concerns related to artificial intelligence, are hoaxes. They are not. They are very real issues. Republicans should stop burying their heads in the sand. Democrats will never make that mistake. Full press conference can be watched here. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-langworthy-announces-nearly-136-million-federal-aviation-grants,Congressman Langworthy Announces Nearly $13.6 Million in Federal Aviation Grants for Airports Across New York’s 23rd Congressional District,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—September 14th… Congressman Nick Langworthy today announced $13,532,819 in federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for critical infrastructure improvements at three airports across New York’s 23rd Congressional District. The grants will support runway and taxiway rehabilitation projects designed to maintain the structural integrity of existing pavement, improve safety and reliability, and extend the useful life of critical airport infrastructure. “This significant $13.6 million investment will help ensure our airports across the Southern Tier and Western New York have the safe, reliable infrastructure they need to serve our communities and support economic growth,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy. “Strong aviation infrastructure is essential for connecting our communities, supporting local businesses and keeping our region competitive. I’m proud to help bring these federal resources home and will continue working to make sure our region gets its fair share.” The specific grants include: $11,080,483 for Elmira/Corning Regional Airport in Elmira, awarded to Chemung County. The funding will support the second phase of construction to rehabilitate 8,000 feet of existing paved Runway 6/24, which has reached the end of its useful life, as well as reconstruct its runway lighting. The project will help maintain the structural integrity of the runway and minimize foreign object debris. $1,619,172 for Wellsville Municipal/Tarantine Field in Wellsville, awarded to the Town of Wellsville. The funding will support the final construction phase of a project to rehabilitate 5,700 feet of existing paved Taxiway A, maintaining pavement integrity, minimizing foreign object debris and extending its useful life. $833,164 for Akron/Jesson Field in Akron, awarded to Christian Airmen Inc. The funding will support the final construction phase of a project to rehabilitate 3,268 feet of existing paved Runway 7/25, helping maintain its structural integrity, minimize foreign object debris and extend the runway’s useful life. The funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s FY2026 Airport Improvement Program, which provides federal resources for airport infrastructure projects.",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://nadler.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397534,"Amid NYFW, Nadler & Gillibrand Reintroduce FABRIC Act To Support Garment Workers And Revitalize The US Fashion Industry",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Jerrold Nadler,N000002,nadler.house.gov,nadler,https://nadler.house.gov/news,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) announced the reintroduction of their Fashioning Accountability and Building Real Institutional Change (FABRIC) Act. In New York State, there are approximately 130,000 people employed by the fashion industry, including thousands working in apparel manufacturing. Garment workers are a cornerstone of the American economy, and for far too long, they have faced unsafe working conditions, wage theft, and piecework pay, which often prioritizes fast fashion over the safety of workers. Nadler and Gillibrand's FABRIC Act would protect over 75,000 American garment workers and help revitalize the garment manufacturing industry in the United States by improving working conditions and reforming the piece-rate pay scale. “America's garment workers have been undervalued and subjected to unfair labor practices for far too long, due to weak regulations across the fashion industry and the rise of fast fashion. With more than 100,000 New Yorkers contributing their labor to a billion-dollar garment industry, it is time to protect these workers and others across our nation and make historic investments in domestic manufacturing by passing the FABRIC Act,” said Congressman Jerrold Nadler. “I’m proud to work with Senator Gillibrand to protect workers’ rights, bring jobs back from overseas, and revitalize the American fashion industry.” “Garment workers are the backbone of a multibillion-dollar industry, yet for far too long, their labor has been undervalued and exploited,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We cannot champion American innovation while turning a blind eye to abusive labor practices in our own backyard. It’s time to take bold action at the federal level to change the fabric of the American garment industry. The United States was once home to a booming apparel manufacturing industry, and it’s time to reexamine how this industry has evolved over the past 50 years and change how we treat our workers. With the FABRIC Act, we can curb wage theft, protect our workers, and revitalize domestic manufacturing so that 'Made in America' also means ethically made.” The FABRIC Act proposes to address these issues by: Restructuring pay rates for garment workers and providing minimum wage as a floor with productivity incentives on top. Establishing new liability measures that compel major retailers to become allies in combating workplace violations. Introducing recordkeeping and transparency measures, including requiring garment manufacturers and contractors operating in the U.S. to register with the Department of Labor. Incentivizing reshoring by creating a domestic garment manufacturing grant program aimed at revitalizing the industry. In addition to Nadler and Gillibrand, the bill is cosponsored by Reps. Deborah Ross (D-NC), Don Beyer (D-VA), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Robert Garcia (D-CA), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), as well as Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). The bill is also endorsed by AFL-CIO, UNITE HERE, Workers United, and RWDSU.",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://riley.house.gov/2026/09/14/icymi-riley-convenes-roundtable-on-utility-costs/,ICYMI: RILEY CONVENES ROUNDTABLE ON UTILITY COSTS,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Josh Riley,R000622,riley.house.gov,riley,https://riley.house.gov/news/,scraper,"BINGHAMTON, NY — Representative Josh Riley (NY-19) brought together local residents, business owners, and policy experts for a roundtable on utility costs last Thursday. Riley discussed his work on utility affordability and his experience intervening in state utility rate cases to push back on unjustified increases, including the results of his investigation into Upstate utilities’ pricing practices. During the conversation, Riley also heard directly from constituents who shared stories of how they’ve been impacted by high utility bills and probed policy experts on challenges and opportunities to bring down costs. “Upstate New Yorkers deserve better than being treated like a cash cow for utility executives sitting in a boardroom halfway around the world. We’re tired of seeing the utility monopolies jack up our rates again and again, then ship our money to foreign parent corporations that don’t know – and don’t care – about what’s best for our communities,” said Riley. “Today, we heard from experts who understand this issue better than anyone and from Upstate New Yorkers who are living it every single day. I’m grateful to everyone who came out to participate in this important conversation and I’m excited to put their insights into action as I keep fighting to bring down utility costs and fix this broken system.” In 2025, Riley launched an investigation into Upstate utilities’ pricing practices, demanding answers from providers and inviting residents to share their stories. Over the course of the investigation, he collected more than 5,000 survey responses from NYSEG customers, the vast majority of whom reported significant bill increases, billing frustrations, and a lack of accessible customer service. Specifically: 91% of respondents reported bill increases; 51% reported skipping groceries, medication, and other essentials to pay the bill; And 2 in 3 who reported a problem to their utility say it was never resolved. You can find the full results of Riley’s investigation HERE. Roundtable participants shared similar stories. Charlie Aiellio, a restaurant owner in Whitney Point, talked about how rising utility bills have forced him to increase menu prices and made it harder to give his employees raises. “Now I’m at $6,000 a month. I remember it being around $2,500 a month. If you were a business and you raised your prices double, you would go out of business,” Aiello said about his restaurant’s utility bills. “How much squeezing can you do to businesses and to people? There’s going to be a breaking point.” Scot Lueck, the Treasurer of the Gilbertsville Fire Department, noted that high NYSEG bills have strained the department’s budget – requiring them to cut spending on turnout gear, air tanks, and other lifesaving equipment. “We used to pay as a seven-year average about $1,100 a year for electricity from NYSEG. The last two years that has jumped to almost $2,700 a year,” Lueck said. “We’re about to start replacing our SCBA harnesses… they’re about $12,000 a piece. And the guys will get disappointed if they’re using old gear and the guy from the other department has the updated 4,500 PSI tank on their back.” Denise Blackwell, a social worker from Binghamton, discussed how she’s tried everything to limit her energy usage but is still facing sky-rocketing utility bills. “I don’t have a ‘smart’ home, but I did upgrade with the hopes of this helping out with the electric bill. I got a smart stove, smart refrigerator – these are all energy savers – and my bill went up $729.31,” said Blackwell. This event builds on Riley’s work to stand up to the utility monopolies on behalf of Upstate New Yorkers: February 13, 2025 — Introduced the Weatherization Enhancement and Readiness Act (H.R. 1355) to help families reduce energy usage and lower monthly utility bills September 18, 2025 — Introduced the Keep the Lights Local Act (H.R. 5487) to ban foreign corporations and governments from owning American utility companies December 10, 2025 — Introduced the No Bonuses for Utility Executives Act (H.R. 6590) to prohibit utility company executives from receiving bonuses when they raise rates faster than inflation. April 17, 2026 — Introduced the No Taxes on Utility Bills Act (H.R. 8350) to allow Upstate New Yorkers to to allow taxpayers to deduct taxes and state-mandated surcharges included on their gas and electric utility bills. April 29, 2026 — Introduced the Lowering Utility Bills Act (H.R. 8568) to crack down on utility companies overcharging customers. July 13, 2026 — Introduced the FAIR Data Act (H.R. 9655) to stop data center projects from driving up energy bills for Upstate New York families and small businesses. September 4, 2026 — Smart Meter Data Privacy Protection Act (H.R. 10284) to ban utility companies from selling Upstate New Yorkers’ private data and crack down on the misuse of personal information collected through smart meters. 2025–2026 — Served as an intervener in the Central Hudson and NYSEG rate cases, where he participated in proceedings and cross-examined utility companies on behalf of ratepayers. You can download photos from the roundtable HERE. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/13/leader-jeffries-on-abc-donald-trump-has-broken-every-promise-that-hes-presented/,LEADER JEFFRIES ON ABC: “DONALD TRUMP HAS BROKEN EVERY PROMISE THAT HE’S PRESENTED”,2026-09-13,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on ABC’s This Week with George Stephanopoulos, where he made clear that while Republicans have abandoned the American people, House Democrats will continue to fight hard for an affordable America. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: We’re joined now by the House Democratic Leader, Hakeem Jeffries. Mr. Leader, thank you for coming in this morning. We want to talk about the convention in a second, but let’s start with AI and these remarkable warnings we’re getting this week. I know you met with President Obama and talked about this issue earlier this week. What will Democrats—what do Democrats think needs to be done right now? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we certainly need to begin to act urgently to address the challenges that exist and unfortunately Republicans have abandoned their responsibility. So, under Speaker Mike Johnson, he killed a bipartisan task force this Congress that was prepared to do the serious work necessary to try to erect the guardrails to protect the health, the safety, the well-being of the American people. So what we did as Democrats was to begin last December a Commission on Artificial Intelligence and the Innovation Economy so we could evaluate the steps that needed to be done and then present an aggressive framework, which we’re in the process of doing so that Congress can act on behalf of the American people. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: But do we even have time for that? You’ve got some of your colleagues, like Representative Ro Khanna and other Democrats, saying Congress should come back in right now, take urgent action right now. Don’t go back for the midterm elections until they’ve done something. LEADER JEFFRIES: I agree with my colleagues that we actually need to act urgently, and unfortunately, House Republicans have effectively canceled the last two weeks of the legislative session scheduled for this month, which is something that they’ve repeatedly done. We should take decisive action now so that we can slow down, as the CEOs have recently acknowledged, slow down the pace of development in order to protect the American people and ensure that AI is proceeding safely. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: What is decisive action? Senator Bernie Sanders, as I said, has called for a ban on artificial superintelligence. Your colleague, Ted Lieu of California, says there needs to be a kill switch inside the companies. Are you for those? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’ll have that conversation this week upon our return. We’re going to meet as a Caucus on Tuesday morning, and a high priority will be action on artificial intelligence. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Okay, let’s turn to the midterm convention—the President’s $5,000 promise. If Democrats take control next year, is that dead on arrival? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, it wasn’t a serious proposal that was presented by Donald Trump. He’s broken every promise that he’s presented. Donald Trump promised to actually lower costs on day one. Costs haven’t gone down. They’ve gone up. Donald Trump promised not to start endless wars in the Middle East, but to stop them and then turned around and did the exact opposite in Iran. Donald Trump even promised to love and cherish Medicaid and then enacted the largest cut to Medicaid in American history. As Democrats, we’re going to focus on aggressively driving down the high cost of living and fighting for an affordable America because the cost of living in this country is way too high. Republicans have made the situation worse. Democrats are going to act aggressively. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Democrats aren’t much more popular than Republicans right now. And the President and his allies at the convention this week tried to argue that you’re the party of communism. Let’s take a look. RECORDING OF DONALD TRUMP: Remember during the last State of the Union, I said, our country will never be a socialist country. I was right. It’s going to be a communist country, if they win. You know what they did? They dropped socialism. They went right for the big one. And all I’m asking in this election is that you stand with me together. We will defeat communism in America once and for all. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Worried that attack might cut? LEADER JEFFRIES: Not at all. One thing that Donald Trump did say at the midterm convention that was interesting is to pretend as if he’s on the ballot. Mr. President, we don’t have to pretend. You are actually on the ballot. Your failed economy is on the ballot. The cost of living crisis is on the ballot. The fact that you’ve gotten us involved in a reckless and costly war of choice in the Middle East that has skyrocketed gas prices—that’s on the ballot. Ripping healthcare away from millions of Americans is on the ballot. The Trump Tariffs, which have increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year, are on the ballot. Donald Trump is absolutely on the ballot in November, and the American people are going to send a message loudly and clearly on Election Day that even Donald Trump cannot ignore. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: The internet activist Hasan Piker was also front and center at this convention in Dallas this week, particularly his comment that America deserved 9/11. How should Democrats handle him? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I’ve been very clear in terms of my denunciation of him and the aggressive, in some cases antisemitic remarks that he’s issued, as have other Democratic candidates all across the country. Now what’s interesting is, in terms of who’s going to be on the ballot, George, in November, we’ve got extraordinary candidates. We’ve got combat veterans like Cait Conley and Rebecca Bennett, we’ve got doctors, we’ve got nurses, we have engineers, we have farmers, we have union leaders, we’ve got firefighters, we’ve got police officers, we have a hostage negotiator, we have a Tejano music superstar in the Rio Grande Valley and even a smokejumper in Montana. These are extraordinary candidates. Their names will appear on the ballot. They’ve got incredible patriotic life experiences and their commitment to public service is going to speak for itself. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: You’ve taken some heat from progressives in the party, including from many who align with the Democratic Socialists. Are you confident that you’ll actually be Speaker if the Democrats win? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’re focused right now on taking back control of the House of Representatives. That is the only mission that’s important, so we can lower the high cost of living, lower the cost of gas, lower the cost of groceries, lower the cost of housing, certainly fight to make healthcare affordable for every single American and combat the unprecedented corruption that’s been unleashed on the American people and beginning on day one, hold the crooks accountable. We’ve made clear, George, that if someone has been screwing over the American people, shortchanging the American people or stealing from the American people, they’re going to be held accountable under a Democratic majority. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: You said hold the crooks accountable. Does that mean that the House is going to be pursuing impeachment proceedings on day one? LEADER JEFFRIES: No, we haven’t ruled anything in and we haven’t ruled anything out in terms of impeachment. As it relates to accountability, what we’re going to do, led by Jamie Raskin and House Committee Democrats on the Judiciary Committee as well as House Democrats on the Oversight Committee, led by Robert Garcia—both of them are doing a tremendous job—we’ve got to follow the facts, apply the law, be guided by the Constitution and then let the chips fall where they may, in the best interest of the American people so that the House, once again, can function like a separate and co-equal branch of government and a check and balance on an out-of-control executive branch. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: On that theme, a lot of Democrats had raised questions about the activities—the private business activities of Jared Kushner. Was it a mistake for you to meet with him? LEADER JEFFRIES: No, listen, I’m of the view that if we’re going to be committed to actually solving problems on behalf of the American people, including, by the way, passing the housing affordability bill in this Congress that became law as a result of bipartisan work led by Maxine Waters in the House and Elizabeth Warren in the Senate, there are going to be times that you have to speak with people on the other side of the aisle, even individuals who you strongly disagree with on the overwhelming majority of issues. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: And if the number one issue is the cost of living right now, what do Democrats do on day one about that? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, there’s a variety of different things that we’re going to have to do. We have to end the Trump Tariffs, because we know the Trump Tariffs have increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year. We’ve got to stop this reckless and costly war of choice in Iran, which has skyrocketed gas prices to the highest levels, for instance, on Labor Day ever seen in the United States of America. We’ve certainly got to fix our broken healthcare system and do the type of things like restoring the Affordable Care Act tax credits, which have increased costs on everyday Americans by thousands of dollars per year, in some cases up to a thousand dollars per month in ways that are unaffordable for people who can no longer be able to go see a doctor when they need one. These are some of the things that I think we can begin to do, but it’s going to have to be a bold, aggressive legislative effort that we sustain, not just for the first 100 days, but for the first year and the entirety of the Congress. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: It’s almost certainly going to have to take some cooperation from President Trump. He went on Fox News this week and said he thinks he can make deals with you. Do you see areas where cooperation is possible? LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I think, look—we’ve said from the very beginning of this Congress, if the other side of the aisle is willing to find the common ground necessary to decisively address the fact that everyday Americans are drowning in this Republican economy, working hard, playing by the rules, can’t thrive and can barely survive, then we’re committed to actually trying to find that common ground, as we just recently did with the housing affordability bill that is now law. GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: Leader Jeffries, thanks for your time this morning. LEADER JEFFRIES: Thanks, George. Full interview can be watched here. ###",1,2026-09-14T10:19:32Z,2026-09-14T10:21:05Z https://garbarino.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-garbarino-marks-25-years-september-11-attacks,Chairman Garbarino Marks 25 Years Since September 11 Attacks,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Andrew R. Garbarino,G000597,garbarino.house.gov,garbarino,https://garbarino.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NEW YORK, NY –– Today, House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02) released the following statement commemorating 25 years since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001: “Twenty-five years ago today, America faced an unimaginable tragedy, and our nation was forever changed. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, represent the worst in our nation’s history, claiming 2,977 innocent lives, including nearly 500 Long Islanders and more than 400 first responders. To this day, we continue to lose countless more Americans to 9/11-related illnesses contracted from toxic exposure during rescue and recovery efforts. “In the years that have followed, our nation has worked with great resolve to strengthen our national security posture and ensure an attack of this magnitude never happens again on U.S. soil––a mission that is as urgent today as it was two decades ago. Educating future generations on the significance of this day, supporting all those impacted by the attacks, and remaining steadfast in our commitment to protecting the American people is more important than ever. “As Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security and as a New Yorker representing a district forever marked by this tragedy, I carry that responsibility with me every day. Twenty-five years later, our promise remains the same: We will never forget.” Background: Chairman Garbarino is committed to honoring the nearly 3,000 people killed, including almost 500 Long Islanders, recognizing the heroism of first responders and civilians, and ensuring younger generations and future national security leaders understand the significance of 9/11 and why continued commitment to the homeland security mission is as important as ever. In advance of today’s anniversary, the House Committee on Homeland Security released a report entitled “The 25th Anniversary Report: The Domestic Threat Landscape and National Security Improvements 25 Years After 9/11/01.” The report evaluates the United States’ progress in strengthening homeland security in the 25 years since the attacks and in the context of today’s modern threat landscape, and it outlines where Congress can provide further support for the Department of Homeland Security’s no-fail mission. Read the full majority report here. As part of this examination, the Committee held a live showcase earlier this month for Members and staff across Congress with demonstrations from numerous DHS components, highlighting how the department uses drone technology, virtual reality training, K-9 operations, and artificial intelligence research to keep Americans safe. More on Chairman Garbarino’s related work: Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security His tenure asChairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security is informed by this commitment to never forget. In his first site visit as Chairman in 2025, the Committeeled a bipartisan delegationto visit Ground Zero on the 24th anniversary of the attacks. Secured a Long-Term Funding Fix for the World Trade Center Health Program Representative Garbarino helped secure funding for the World Trade Center Health Program for the lifetime of the Program, ensuring 9/11 responders and survivors who continue to suffer from 9/11-related illnesses receive the care they deserve for years to come. 25th Anniversary of September 11th Resolution Ahead of the 25th Anniversary, Representative Garbarinointroduced a bipartisan House resolution commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The resolution reaffirms the nation’s commitment to supporting the 9/11 community, including the World Trade Center Health Program, and preserving the memory and lessons of September 11th for future generations. Support for the Reappointment of Dr. John Howard to Lead the WTCHP In July 2026, Representative Garbarino led a bipartisan, bicameral letteralongside Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urging Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reappoint Dr. John Howard to another six-year term as Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Administrator of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). Following Representative Garbarino’s continued advocacy, Dr. Howard was officially reappointed to another six-year term on September 9, 2026, ensuring continued leadership and stability for the Program and the 9/11 community it serves.\ 25th Anniversary Committee Report The House Committee on Homeland Security released a report this week entitled “The 25th Anniversary Report: National Security Improvements and the Domestic Threat Landscape 25 Years After 9/11/01.” As part of this examination, the Committee held alive showcase earlier this month for Members and staff across Congress with demonstrations from numerous DHS components. H.R. 1993 – 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act Representative Garbarino co-led this bipartisan legislation requiring the U.S. Mint to issue commemorative coins honoring the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Surcharges from coin sales support programs at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. The House passed the bill 415-0 in May 2026. 9/11 Education Representative Garbarino introduced a resolution calling on schoolsacross the country to teach students about the September 11 terrorist attacks and ensure future generations understand the events and lasting impact of that day. ###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/washington-dc-us-rep-grace-meng-d-ny-released-following-statement-trump,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s latest attempt to include a citizenship question on the 2030 Census form: “The Constitution requires congressional representation to be based o",2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s latest attempt to include a citizenship question on the 2030 Census form: “The Constitution requires congressional representation to be based on the ‘whole number of persons in each State’—not only citizens or green-card holders. Every person living in our country must be counted, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The Trump administration’s proposal would erase millions of people from the census data used to distribute political representation. It would exclude not only undocumented immigrants, but also refugees, asylum seekers, visa holders, and other people who are lawfully present in the United States but do not have permanent-resident status. This is un-American, unconstitutional, and a direct attack on immigrant communities. An inaccurate count risks a decade of consequences. Census data help determine representation in Congress, electoral districts, and the allocation of federal resources for health care, education, infrastructure, and other essential services. When Donald Trump tried to include a citizenship question on the 2020 Decennial Census form during his first term, I fought back and I won. Earlier this year, I co-led a letter with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and other Congressional leaders opposing changes to the Census test, which includes the citizenship question. I’ve never stopped fighting to prevent this and I’m prepared to continue as the Top Democrat on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies. My message is clear: immigrants are part of our communities, and they will not be rendered invisible. The 2030 Census must remain an accurate count of the people—not a political weapon.”",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-tenney-leads-six-republican-colleagues-calling-hhs-and-cms,Congresswoman Tenney Leads Six Republican Colleagues in Calling on HHS and CMS to Strengthen Domestic Production of Essential Medicines,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Claudia Tenney,T000478,tenney.house.gov,tenney,https://tenney.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz outlining recommendations to help the Trump administration establish a meaningful and predictable Medicare payment incentive for hospitals and clinics that use American-made essential medicines. As co-chair of the American-Made Medicines Caucus, Tenney is leading efforts with six Republican colleagues to expand domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, secure America’s medical supply chain, and reduce the nation’s reliance on foreign adversaries for critical medicines. Earlier this year, CMS requested public input on ways to encourage hospitals participating in Medicare to purchase domestically manufactured essential medicines and other critical medical supplies. Building on the Trump administration’s efforts, Tenney recommended: Providing predictable payments tied to providers’ actual use of qualifying American-made medicines; Establishing and regularly updating a CMS Essential Medicines List based on clinical need and supply-chain vulnerabilities; and Recognizing both finished medicines manufactured in the United States and domestically produced active pharmaceutical ingredients. These reforms would make American-made medicines more competitive, encourage greater use of existing domestic manufacturing capacity, and give manufacturers the certainty they need to invest in expanded production. Strengthening domestic production would also reduce the risk that drug shortages or disruptions to foreign supply chains delay care for American patients. “President Trump’s administration is taking important steps to rebuild our domestic pharmaceutical supply chain and ensure America is never dependent on foreign adversaries for the essential medicines our patients need,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “A clear and reliable Medicare incentive would encourage hospitals and clinics to buy American while giving manufacturers the certainty they need to expand production here at home."" “As co-chair of the American-Made Medicines Caucus, I look forward to working with Secretary Kennedy, Administrator Oz, and the Trump administration to protect patients, support American workers, and secure our nation’s medical supply chain.” Read the full letter here.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/meng-statement-trumps-latest-attempt-including-citizenship-question,MENG STATEMENT ON TRUMP’S LATEST ATTEMPT AT INCLUDING A CITIZENSHIP QUESTION IN THE 2030 US CENSUS,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Grace Meng,M001188,meng.house.gov,meng,https://meng.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s latest attempt to include a citizenship question on the 2030 Census form: “The Constitution requires congressional representation to be based on the ‘whole number of persons in each State’—not only citizens or green-card holders. Every person living in our country must be counted, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The Trump administration’s proposal would erase millions of people from the census data used to distribute political representation. It would exclude not only undocumented immigrants, but also refugees, asylum seekers, visa holders, and other people who are lawfully present in the United States but do not have permanent-resident status. This is un-American, unconstitutional, and a direct attack on immigrant communities. An inaccurate count risks a decade of consequences. Census data help determine representation in Congress, electoral districts, and the allocation of federal resources for health care, education, infrastructure, and other essential services. When Donald Trump tried to include a citizenship question on the 2020 Decennial Census form during his first term, I fought back and I won. Earlier this year, I co-led a letter with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and other Congressional leaders opposing changes to the Census test, which includes the citizenship question. I’ve never stopped fighting to prevent this and I’m prepared to continue as the Top Democrat on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies. My message is clear: immigrants are part of our communities, and they will not be rendered invisible. The 2030 Census must remain an accurate count of the people—not a political weapon.”",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://clarke.house.gov/clarke-pressley-and-colleagues-demand-investigation-into-black-people-found-hanging-invokes-legacy-of-lynching-in-america/,"CLARKE, PRESSLEY, AND COLLEAGUES DEMAND INVESTIGATION INTO BLACK PEOPLE FOUND HANGING, INVOKES LEGACY OF LYNCHING IN AMERICA",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 10, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 Letter Comes Amidst Alarming Spike in Possible Modern-Day Lynchings Text of Letter (PDF) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (NY-09) and colleagues, led by Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), wrote to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), demanding a thorough, transparent, and comprehensive federal investigation into the numerous incidents of Black people found hanging across the country. The letter follows a series of deaths that raise suspicion of foul play given the role of lynching in American history. The growing number of Black people found hanging in public is a national crisis. A recent report documented more than 70 modern-day lynchings in the United States between 2000 and 2025. In 2026 alone, there have already been at least 10 reported hangings of Black people. They were as young as 18 years old and lived in different parts of the country, including Mississippi, Michigan, and New York. Many families have publicly questioned the conclusions of local and state investigations. “Inaction by the federal government is tantamount to complicity. This is part of the legacy of racial terror in the United States, and this neglect has long-term consequences,” the lawmakers continued. “Not only are innocent lives lost, but lynching inflicts deep traumatic and psychological wounds on family members, neighbors, and the entire Black community.” “Congress enacted the Emmett Till Antilynching Act in 2022 to ensure the DOJ and FBI are empowered to fully investigate suspicious deaths and hold individuals accountable,” the lawmakers continued. “It is incumbent upon you to do just that.” This letter demands a thorough, transparent, and comprehensive federal investigation into every hanging death of a Black individual across the United States. At a minimum, each investigation, with permission of the decedents’ families, should include an independent autopsy, an audit of local and state law enforcement investigations, review of physical and testimonial evidence, and a final report submitted to Congress explaining the agency’s findings. The letter also calls for robust data collection that tracks the hanging deaths of Black people transparently and systematically. Joining Congresswoman Clarke and Pressley in sending the letter are Representatives Alma Adams, Yassamin Ansari, Becca Balint, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Joyce Beatty, Wesley Bell, Sanford Bishop, Everton Blair, Brendan Boyle, Shontel Brown, Janelle Bynum, André Carson, Troy Carter, Jasmine Crockett, Mark DeSaulnier, Sarah Elfreth, Jesús “Chuy” García, Sylvia García, Jimmy Gomez, Al Green, Adelita Grijalva, Jahana Hayes, Glenn Ivey, Jonathan Jackson, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Robin Kelly, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Summer Lee, Jennifer McClellan, LaMonica McIver, Gregory Meeks, Analilia Mejía, Christian Menefee, Kweisi Mfume, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Frank Pallone Jr., Mark Pocan, Stacey Plaskett, Delia Ramírez, Terri Sewell, Lateefah Simon, Haley Stevens, Marilyn Strickland, Shri Thanedar, Bennie Thompson, Rashida Tlaib, Ritchie Torres, Lauren Underwood, Nydia M. Velázquez, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Maxine Waters, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Nikema Williams, and Frederica Wilson. Full text of the letter is available here. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://jeffries.house.gov/2026/09/10/leader-jeffries-in-denver-people-are-drowning-in-the-trump-economy/,LEADER JEFFRIES IN DENVER: “PEOPLE ARE DROWNING IN THE TRUMP ECONOMY”,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Hakeem S. Jeffries,J000294,jeffries.house.gov,jeffries,https://jeffries.house.gov/category/press-release/page/,scraper,"Yesterday, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke to reporters following a roundtable in Denver with Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), local elected officials and members of the Greater Metro Denver Ministerial Alliance about how House Democrats are united in the fight to make life better for everyday Americans and reverse the toxic policies of Donald Trump and extreme MAGA Republicans. Below are excerpts of his remarks during the gaggle and the roundtable. LEADER JEFFRIES ON THE ROUNDTABLE: We had a wonderful, thoughtful, powerful conversation with the Denver Ministerial Alliance as well as elected officials and community leaders. We discussed a host of issues, including a lot of the challenges that relate to the extremism that’s been unleashed on the people of Colorado and this nation by the Trump administration, including the cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, the attacks on healthcare, the out-of-control ICE activity and the assault on voting rights. I look forward to continuing to stay in close touch with the leadership here in Denver, in the greater Denver area and beyond. I’m so thankful, of course, for Congressman Joe Neguse for extending this invitation to me and for the great work that he continues to do as Assistant Leader in the United States House of Representatives. LEADER JEFFRIES ON THE AFFORDABILITY CRISIS: We’re committed to addressing the affordability crisis that we know is impacting the people here in Denver and throughout Colorado. Life is far too expensive. There are too many people in this state and across the country who are working hard, they’re playing by the rules, but they can’t thrive and they can barely survive. The affordability crisis is not a hoax. It is very real. People are drowning in the Trump economy, and we’re committed to lowering the high cost of living in the United States of America. At the same period of time, we’ve seen record levels of corruption be unleashed on the American people. And when you have people in high office, including the President and all of his minions who are part of the Trump cartel, who are so focused on enriching themselves, their family, their friends and their donors, then it means they’re not focused on making life more affordable for the people of Colorado or throughout this great country, and we need to address it. LEADER JEFFRIES ON ACCOUNTABILITY AGENDA: What we’ve committed to doing is to make sure that beginning on day one, if folks have been stealing from the American people, shortchanging the American people or screwing over the American people, we’re going to hold the crooks accountable. And the effort as it relates to oversight, investigations and accountability, as I’ve indicated, that’s going to be led by Congressman Jamie Raskin and House Judiciary Committee Democrats, including Congressman Joe Neguse as well as Congressman Robert Garcia and House Oversight Committee Democrats. Here’s what we’re going to do: we’re going to follow the facts, we’re going to apply the law, we’re going to be guided by the Constitution and we’re going to let the chips fall where they may in terms of conducting the oversight that is part of being a separate and co-equal branch of government. LEADER JEFFRIES ON REINING IN ICE: We’ve made clear that Donald Trump’s violent mass deportation machine doesn’t get a dime, and we’ve done that in the minority…because we think taxpayer dollars should be spent to make life more affordable for the American people, not brutalize or kill American citizens or, finally, target law-abiding immigrant families, including African immigrants. LEADER JEFFRIES ON RACISM IN POLICYMAKING: Some of what we talked about with some of the African American leaders related to the policy violence that’s going to have a disproportionate impact on the African American community, including the assault on healthcare, the attacks on Medicaid, the dramatic cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, continuing challenges as it relates to the lingering impact of mass incarceration and, of course, just the naked, blatant attack on Black political opportunity as a result of the Supreme Court’s egregious decision in gutting the Voting Rights Act, as well as the attack led by Pete Hegseth, of all people, on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, and the adverse impact that has had on Black women in particular. So these were all very incredibly well-articulated, thoughtful, passionate observations and points that were made that I think Congressman Neguse and myself are going to take to heart and take back with us to Washington as we shape public policy into the future. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2482,Kennedy Sends Oversight Letter to EPA & Army Corps of Engineers Seeking Answers and Transparency in Ongoing NECRA Project,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Timothy M. Kennedy,K000402,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Kennedy Presses Federal Agencies for Clarity on Contamination, Testing Timeline, Resident Protections, Relocation Assistance, and Financial Impacts on Affected Families BUFFALO, N.Y. – Congressman Tim Kennedy sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Commanding General Lieutenant General William H. Graham, Jr. to solicit answers on the ongoing Niagara and Erie County Radiological Assessment (NECRA) and the federal government’s role in responding to elevated levels of radioactive material discovered on properties in Niagara and Erie Counties. “As the elected federal representative of the families directly impacted by this situation, I am deeply concerned that the pace, transparency, and scope of the joint federal and state response have not adequately matched the urgent concerns facing affected residents,” wrote Congressman Kennedy. “These families deserve clear answers, timely action, and confidence that all levels of their government are doing everything possible to protect them.” Kennedy’s letter comes as affected residents continue to face uncertainty about the safety of their homes, their health, and their financial futures. Kennedy called on EPA and USACE to provide written answers on the scope and pace of the investigation, sampling and laboratory analysis, risk assessments, health and safety protections, temporary relocation assistance, property values, and the origins of the radioactive contamination. The full text of Kennedy’s letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/malliotakis-urges-those-need-911-health-benefits-victims-compensation-fund,"MALLIOTAKIS URGES THOSE IN NEED OF 9/11 HEALTH BENEFITS, VICTIMS COMPENSATION FUND TO REACH OUT",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicole Malliotakis,M000317,malliotakis.house.gov,malliotakis,https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis is urging 9/11 responders, survivors, victims’ families and others eligible for assistance through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) or the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) and who are experiencing difficulties with their claims to contact her office for help. ""25 years after the worst terror attack on American soil, we must continue to stand with our first responders and 9/11 community, — not just on September 11, but every day,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. ""We have had success helping constituents cut through bureaucratic red tape, appeal claims, and expedite benefits they have earned. Our office will continue doing everything we can to ensure the heroes, survivors and families of 9/11 are never forgotten and receive the support they deserve."" The VCF provides financial assistance to eligible individuals who suffered physical harm or developed illnesses as a result of the September 11 attacks and their aftermath. The WTCHP provides medical monitoring and treatment at no cost to eligible responders and survivors who have 9/11 related health conditions. Navigating the claims process can be complicated, especially for those facing serious illnesses, extensive documentation requirements, or delays. Congresswoman Malliotakis’ office has helped constituents navigate these challenges and work with federal agencies to resolve their cases. Examples of cases in which the Congresswoman’s office has provided assistance include: 1. Appeal Approved — A former first responder who worked in the World Trade Center area was denied benefits through the World Trade Center Health Program due to an administrative error. After filing an appeal and waiting nearly a year without a resolution, the constituent contacted our office. We worked to address the issue and help move the appeal forward. The appeal was ultimately approved, allowing the constituent to receive the health benefits they were entitled to. 2. Significant VCF Award — A constituent reached out to our office after experiencing significant delays in receiving a 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund award following the death of a family member. The claim had remained unresolved for an extended period due to outstanding documentation and administrative requirements. Our office worked with the appropriate agencies and the VCF to help resolve the remaining issues and expedite the claim, allowing the family to receive the full award. 3. Significant VCF Award — A constituent who had worked in the World Trade Center area reached out after struggling to resolve a 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund claim following a serious 9/11 related illness. The delay placed additional financial strain on the constituent and their family during a difficult period. Our office worked with the VCF to address the outstanding issues and help move the claim forward. The constituent ultimately received a significant compensation award. 4. Estate Award — A constituent reached out after a 9/11 related estate award became delayed during the required legal review. Although the Victim Compensation Fund award had already been determined, the family was unable to access the funds until the necessary court process was completed. Our office worked with the appropriate parties to help move the matter forward and resolve the outstanding requirements. The necessary approval was ultimately secured, allowing the estate to receive the award and bringing the matter to a close. 5. Significant VCF Award — A constituent reached out after experiencing significant delays in receiving a 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund award following the death of a parent. The family was facing significant financial hardship and needed the claim resolved as quickly as possible. Our office worked with the VCF and the appropriate parties to address the remaining requirements and expedite the process. After repeated follow-up, the necessary approval was secured, allowing the constituent to receive the full award.",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases/suozzi-leader-deriggi-whitton-and-mayor-villafane-announce-expansion-sea-cliff,"Suozzi, Leader DeRiggi-Whitton, and Mayor Villafane Announce Expansion of Sea Cliff Sewer System",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Thomas R. Suozzi,S001201,suozzi.house.gov,suozzi,https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Glen Cove, NY—Congressman Suozzi (D-NY) today joined Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader DeRiggi-Whitton (D-Glen Cove), Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane, and local residents in Sea Cliff to announce the expansion of the Sea Cliff sewer system. The $6.5 million expansion will utilize more than $1.1 million in funds Congressman Suozzi secured in the FY2026 Community Project Funding grants. Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton secured an additional $4 million in bond authorization over the next two years to support the expansion of the sanitary sewer system in Sea Cliff, and local resources will cover the balance. “This is a major accomplishment by Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton to help sewer critical areas in Sea Cliff and protect our precious Hempstead Harbor,” Congressman Suozzi said. “The continued success of Sea Cliff’s sewer expansion initiative is an outstanding illustration of what can be accomplished when all levels of government work collaboratively to solve problems for the communities we serve. I am excited to see how the $1 million in federal funding that I secured from the federal government has become a catalyst for millions more in County-level support spearheaded by Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton in partnership with Village leaders. This is transformational.” The funds will be applied toward sewering a total of 2,860 linear feet on these streets: • Prospect Avenue between Carpenter Avenue & Albin Street (900 linear feet, 20 service connections) • Winding Way between 7th Avenue and Prospect Avenue (860 linear feet, 12 service connections) • The Drive between Park Way and Carpenter Avenue (370 linear feet, five service connections) • Park Way between 7th Avenue and Prospect Avenue (730 feet, eight service connections) The forthcoming project will build upon previous work, completed during the summer of 2021, which sewered portions of Prospect, Maple, 12th, Sea Cliff, Summit, Central, 8th, and 7th Avenues, as well as all of Fairview Place. The expansion will also play a key role in the continued effort to clean up the Long Island Sound. By converting septic systems to sewer systems, this project will reduce nitrogen pollution into the Sound, helping impove the water quality of one of our nation’s great treasures. Congressman Suozzi has long been a champion for protecting Long Island's environment, advocating for clean water, open space preservation, and investments that improve the health of the Long Island Sound, including delivering a 1000% increase in funding to improve the Long Island Sound since he came to Congress in 2017. His leadership has earned recognition from the New York League of Conservation Voters, which this year named him a Clean Water Champion for his decades-long commitment to safeguarding Long Island's water quality and securing federal support for critical environmental projects. “Since Sea Cliff Village officials received their first funding for sewer expansion in 2014, Sea Cliff Avenue was our first area to focus on. Completing that was, in and of itself, a major accomplishment because it opened the doors for businesses to flourish and grow without having to consider the limitations of septic systems,” Minority Leader DeRiggi-Whitton said. “The fact remains that, of the 10 percent of Nassau County that is not sewered, about 90 percent falls within District 11, and that is why it was so important to pursue a vision that expands the initial project to connect additional streets to the gravity line that was completed five years ago. With critical support from Congressman Suozzi and this new County infrastructure funding, we are a major step closer to making those plans a reality.” “This is exactly the kind of intergovernmental partnership that produces lasting results for our residents and our environment,” Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane said. “Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton’s success in securing $4 million in Nassau County capital funding, combined with Congressman Tom Suozzi’s $1 million commitment, brings us significantly closer to extending public sewers to areas of Sea Cliff that have relied on aging cesspools for generations. Protecting Hempstead Harbor is one of our highest priorities, and expanding sewer service is one of the most meaningful steps we can take toward that goal. On behalf of the Village, I thank Legislator DeRiggi-Whitton and Congressman Suozzi for investing in Sea Cliff’s future.” ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-goldman-presents-354000-grant-award-kings-county-district,"Congressman Dan Goldman Presents $354,000 Grant Award to Kings County District Attorney’s Office",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"New York, NY - U.S. Representative Dan Goldman (NY-10) presented the Kings County District Attorney’s Office with a $354,000 Community Project funding award. The award will be used to bolster the Outreach and Assistance Response (SOAR) program. The program is designed to conduct immediate outreach to violent crime victims and their families. Rep. Goldman requested and secured funding for the project, which was included in a package of bills to fund the federal government. Goldman secured $13,756,000 for 15 community projects in NY-10 in the FY 2026 appropriations process. Rep. Goldman presented the award to Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. “Violent crime often leaves lasting trauma for victims and their families, who benefit greatly from immediate assistance,” said Congressman Dan Goldman. “I am proud to have secured $354,000 to fund the Kings County District Attorney’s Office’s program that does just that – from financial help to mental health assistance.. Thank you to District Attorney Gonzalez for his leadership on this issue to provide Brooklyn families with the respect and care they deserve."" Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said, “While Brooklyn is experiencing a public safety renaissance with historic lows in homicides and shootings, there are still too many families dealing with the trauma of a shooting, an assault or the loss of a loved one. And even when there has not yet been an arrest or a criminal case, victims and families may need immediate support. The new SOAR program will offer just that and fill gaps that traditional compensation programs cannot always cover, allowing our counselors to assist and stand with every victim of serious violence and their families. I am grateful for Congressman Dan Goldman who secured the grant that will allow us to launch this important initiative.” Kings County District Attorney’s SOAR (Support Outreach and Assistance Response) conducts outreach and provides support to victims of violent assaults and homicides regardless of whether anyone has been arrested for the crime. Typically the victim’s services staff in a DA’s office only comes into contact with a victim once an arrest has been made and a case generated. The SOAR team responds to violent crimes even when there is no case in the DA’s office. The response team provides assistance with victim compensation, counseling, and relevant case related information. The SOAR team also engages in community outreach to inform the public of KCDA’s services and commitment to public safety. Immediately following a violent incident or homicide, usually within the first 24 to 48 hours, SOAR counselors work with the NYC Police Department to obtain contact information of survivors or surviving family members. In cases where other agencies or organizations, such as the offices of elected officials or community-based organizations, have already had contact with the victim or family, SOAR counselors work with those agencies to ensure a warm handoff from those organizations to our experts in trauma, crime victim’s rights, and criminal justice. The funds will assist with building the SOAR team by covering the salary for a program coordinator and four new staff members dedicated to the program. ###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases/goldman-leads-more-200-members-bipartisan-resolution-marking-25th-anniversary,Goldman Leads More Than 200 Members in Bipartisan Resolution Marking 25th Anniversary of September 11th Attacks,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Daniel S. Goldman,G000599,goldman.house.gov,goldman,https://goldman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, honoring the 2,977 innocent lives lost, and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to never forget. The resolution is co-led by Representatives Andrew Garbarino (NY-2), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and is cosponsored by more than 200 Members of the House of Representatives. “As we approach the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, our commitment to honoring the courage and sacrifice demonstrated by so many brave Americans endures. I am honored to co-lead this resolution, which not only commemorates the sacrifice of the 2,977 lives lost that tragic day, but reaffirms our obligation to those who continue to suffer from illnesses caused by the attacks. May we never forget it,” said Congressman Goldman. “Twenty-five years later, the impact of September 11th is still deeply personal for New Yorkers and for families across our country,” said Congressman Garbarino. “We remember the 2,977 innocent lives taken from us, the first responders who ran toward danger, and the thousands we have lost in the years since to 9/11-related illnesses, as well as those who continue to suffer today. I am proud that more than 200 of my colleagues have joined together to honor their sacrifice and reaffirm a promise that must endure for generations: we will never forget.” “On a clear September morning with an unusually blue sky, our nation was attacked. And our community was forever changed. In Congress, I have worked to make sure the Hudson Valley, and our nation, never forgets. Twenty-five years later, we remember the lives we lost, the heroes we honor, and the duty that remains: care for the living, teach the next generation, and never forget,” said Congressman Lawler. “25 years ago, New Yorkers and Americans across our nation experienced the deepest tragedy. 2,977 lives were lost, thousands were injured, and many more were sickened. We will never forget the lives we lost, and we must continue to serve those who have been afflicted from the toxic air at Ground Zero and in their homes, schools, and offices. We thank the first responders and everyday citizens who committed incredible acts of heroism, and we promise to honor their legacy by never forgetting their sacrifice,” said Congressman Nadler. The resolution honors the victims killed at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, as well as the extraordinary courage of the first responders, members of the Armed Forces, passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93, medical professionals, rescue and recovery workers, volunteers, and countless others who responded to the attacks and their aftermath. It also recognizes the lasting consequences of September 11th for responders and survivors who continue to suffer from 9/11-related illnesses and acknowledges the organizations that have spent the past 25 years supporting survivors and victims’ families. The resolution further recognizes the service and sacrifice of the members of the Armed Forces who defended the United States in the years following the attacks and emphasizes the importance of teaching future generations the history and lessons of September 11th. Full bill text here. ###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases/suozzi-introduces-bipartisan-bill-crack-down-health-care-fraud,Suozzi Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Crack Down on Health Care Fraud,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Thomas R. Suozzi,S001201,suozzi.house.gov,suozzi,https://suozzi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY) today introduced the bipartisan Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Act with Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R-NY) to strengthen the federal government’s efforts to combat waste, fraud, and abuse across government healthcare programs. The legislation would increase funding for the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program (HCFAC), a joint agency program involving the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Office of Inspector General (OIG), Department of Justice, and FBI. HCFAC coordinates federal, state, and local efforts to identify and prosecute health care fraud across programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health care programs. “Taxpayers bear the cost of every dollar lost to fraud, ultimately making healthcare more expensive. If we want to lower healthcare costs, we need to start by going after waste, fraud, and abuse wherever it’s happening. HCFAC is a tremendously successful program helping us do just that,” said Congressman Suozzi. “Fighting fraud is not a partisan issue; it’s common sense. The Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Act is about protecting taxpayers, rooting out fraud, and helping keep health care costs down. I’m proud to introduce this important bill to protect taxpayers and the healthcare programs that so many patients depend on.” “Every dollar stolen through health care fraud is a dollar taken from taxpayers and the patients who depend on these programs,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated, and the federal government must have the tools and resources to find them, stop them, and hold them accountable. The Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Act strengthens the investigators and watchdogs on the front lines of this fight and improves oversight across federal health care programs. Protecting Medicare, Medicaid, and other critical programs from fraud will safeguard taxpayer dollars and help ensure these resources are there for the Americans who truly need them.” Every dollar lost to fraud costs not only the government, but trickles down to consumers through higher premiums and costs on other health care expenses. HCFAC is a highly effective federal program, returning $3 to taxpayers for every dollar spent. By increasing the funding for this successful and worthwhile program, this legislation fights fraud responsibly, by equipping federal agencies with additional resources to prevent fraudulent payments, hold bad actors accountable, lower costs for patients, and recover taxpayer dollars. Since 2010, the scope of HCFAC’s work has expanded significantly. Medicare and Medicaid spending has far outpaced inflation, enrollment has skyrocketed, and fraudsters have become savvier. The funding for HCFAC has not kept up. As a result, the network of agencies involved have had to police a broader and more complex system without adequate resources. To address this, the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Act would rebase HCFAC’s funding, raising it to $490,000,000 for FY2027, $520,000,000 for FY2028, $57,000,000 for FY2029, and ensuring it continues to increase commensurate with inflation in FY2030 and beyond. ###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://clarke.house.gov/53-members-of-congress-demand-hhs-and-cms-halt-medicaid-data-sharing-with-ice/,53 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS DEMAND HHS AND CMS HALT MEDICAID DATA SHARING WITH ICE,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Yvette D. Clarke,C001067,clarke.house.gov,clarke,https://clarke.house.gov/category/press-release/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 9, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT: e: jessica.myers@mail.house.gov c: 202.913.0126 WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), and Emily Randall (WA-06) led 49 Members of Congress in sending a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz calling for an immediate end to the sharing of Medicaid enrollee data with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Despite a federal preliminary injunction limiting data transfers, CMS continues to share private data belonging to millions of enrollees—including U.S. citizens and lawful residents—beyond court-approved limits. Reports also reveal ICE improperly mishandled the data across internal channels and shared it with third-party analytics contractors like Palantir Technologies. “The role of HHS should be to protect the health of all those living in this country and provide essential human services, not to be a watchdog for DHS or act as immigration enforcement,” the Members stated in the letter. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://garbarino.house.gov/media/press-releases/garbarino-applauds-reappointment-dr-john-howard-lead-world-trade-center-health,Garbarino Applauds Reappointment of Dr. John Howard to Lead World Trade Center Health Program,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Andrew R. Garbarino,G000597,garbarino.house.gov,garbarino,https://garbarino.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, today congratulated Dr. John Howard on his reappointment to another six-year term as Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and Administrator of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). The reappointment comes just days before the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks and follows a bipartisan, bicameral letter led by Garbarino and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand urging Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to retain Dr. Howard. In July, Garbarino and Gillibrand led 26 bipartisan Members of Congress in calling for his reappointment. “For more than two decades, Dr. Howard has been a trusted advocate for the 9/11 community and dedicated leader of the World Trade Center Health Program,” said Congressman Garbarino. “As we mark 25 years since September 11th, I am grateful that Dr. Howard will continue this important work and congratulate him on his six-year reappointment. I thank President Trump and Secretary Kennedy for making this reappointment possible and for recognizing the importance of Dr. Howard's experienced leadership. Responders and survivors deserve stability, certainty, and a Program that will be there for them for years to come. I look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Howard to make sure they receive the care and support they have earned.” Dr. Howard was first appointed Director of NIOSH in 2002 and has served in the role under administrations of both parties. As NIOSH Director, he also serves as Administrator of the World Trade Center Health Program, which provides medical monitoring and treatment to more than 140,000 9/11 responders and survivors nationwide. Earlier this year, Garbarino helped secure lifetime funding for the World Trade Center Health Program. He has continued working with members of the 9/11 community to ensure the Program has the staffing, resources, and leadership necessary to provide care for responders and survivors suffering from 9/11-related illnesses. In their July letter, Garbarino, Gillibrand, and their colleagues emphasized that Dr. Howard's continued leadership would provide stability and institutional knowledge as the Program enters its next chapter. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-langworthy-announces-500000-federal-grant-strengthen-hornell-area,"Congressman Langworthy Announces $500,000 Federal Grant to Strengthen Hornell-Area Wastewater Infrastructure",2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicholas A. Langworthy,L000600,langworthy.house.gov,langworthy,https://langworthy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--September 9th… Congressman Nick Langworthy today announced that the City of Hornell has been awarded $500,000 in federal funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to advance a major regional wastewater infrastructure project serving the Hornell area municipalities including Hornell, North Hornell, and Hornellsville. The ARC grant will support the engineering and design phase of the Hornell Intermunicipal Sewer Improvement Project, a collaborative effort between the City of Hornell, Village of North Hornell and Town of Hornellsville. The project has a total cost of $1,082,700, with an additional $582,700 in state funding. The federal investment will fund field surveys, subsurface investigations, hydraulic evaluations, environmental reviews, regulatory coordination and the development of preliminary and final engineering documents needed to move the project toward construction. The engineering work will focus on developing construction-ready plans and specifications to replace or rehabilitate eight aging sewer pump stations and associated trunk sewer infrastructure that have exceeded their useful life and are experiencing capacity, reliability and resiliency deficiencies. “Reliable infrastructure is the foundation for strong communities and a growing economy, and this federal investment will help Hornell and its neighboring communities address critical wastewater needs while laying the groundwork for future growth,” said Congressman Langworthy. “I’m proud to see federal resources coming back to the Southern Tier to support infrastructure that protects public health, strengthens our communities, and helps create an environment where businesses can invest and jobs can grow.” Hornell Mayor John Buckley said, “We are grateful to Congressman Langworthy for his continued efforts to bring federal dollars home to Hornell and the Southern Tier. These investments make a real difference for our communities, allowing us to tackle critical infrastructure needs while minimizing the burden on local taxpayers. This $500,000 grant will help us move an important regional sewer project forward and position our municipalities for the additional funding needed to complete this work. We appreciate Congressman Langworthy’s partnership and his commitment to making sure communities like ours have a strong advocate in Washington.” The Appalachian Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership serving 423 counties across the Appalachian region. Its mission is to strengthen economic growth and build community capacity throughout Appalachia.",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/malliotakis-officials-join-family-highlight-father-vincent-capodannos-life,"Malliotakis, Officials Join Family To Highlight Father Vincent Capodanno’s Life & Path to Sainthood",2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,NY,Nicole Malliotakis,M000317,malliotakis.house.gov,malliotakis,https://malliotakis.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"(STATEN ISLAND, NY) — Today, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) held a press conference to highlight the extraordinary courage, faith, and selflessness of Father Vincent Capodanno, a U.S. Navy priest who sacrificed his life serving wounded Marines during the Vietnam War and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism. Joined by Father Capodanno’s family, elected officials, and veterans, Congresswoman Malliotakis highlighted why his life and sacrifice are deserving of sainthood and called on the community and fellow Americans to show their support. “Twenty years ago, in May 2006, Father Capodanno was declared a Servant of God by the Catholic Church, a distinction that opened his cause for sainthood. Here in our community, his name and sacrifice have been honored and remembered for generations. But there is an extraordinary life of faith and service behind that Medal of Honor that deserves to be known far beyond our shores,” said Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis. “All the medals that Father Vincent got prior to his death, we never knew. He hid them in an attic. He was an extremely humble man,” said Al Lambert, Father Capodanno’s cousin. “Father Capodanno’s life and sacrifice, his being, is inextricably woven into the soul of Staten Island, and I believe the soul of America,” said State Senator Andrew Lanza. “The most important thing he demonstrates for our next generation is leadership through service. True leadership by service is putting others above yourself, and that’s exactly what Father Capodanno did,” said State Representative Michael Reilly.",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-morelle-leads-bipartisan-effort-block-trumps-executive-order,CONGRESSMAN MORELLE LEADS BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO BLOCK TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER LIMITING MAIL IN VOTING,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NY,Joseph D. Morelle,M001206,morelle.house.gov,morelle,https://morelle.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Today, Congressman Joe Morelle, the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, mobilized current and former Members of Congress in a court filing challenging the legality of President Donald Trump’s Executive Order seeking to exert control over mail-in ballots ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. “Presidents do not control our elections; the American people do. Today, in a bipartisan agreement, Members defended the constitutional authority of Congress and deliberately chose to protect our elections from executive overreach. Our elections are safe and secure, and we intend to keep them that way. We will not allow USPS to put Americans’ ballots at risk,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. The bipartisan group of 261 lawmakers filed an amicus brief to the Supreme Court of the United States in the matter of United States Postal Service, et al., v. State of California, et al., a lawsuit brought by a coalition of State Attorneys General against the U.S. Postal Service. The court case challenges a Final Rule issued by the USPS related to Trump’s order that imposes unconstitutional and unworkable restrictions on mail-in voting, including requiring states to provide a “citizenship verification list” and attempting to give USPS control over who can vote by mail. One-third of Americans are expected to vote by mail in the upcoming midterm elections—a voting practice Donald Trump himself used as recently as August 2026, when the president voted in Florida’s Republican primary. In the court filing, the amici curiae argue that Trump’s Executive Order 14399, “Ensuring Citizenship Verification and Integrity in Federal Elections,” violates the separation of powers and usurps congressional authorities outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the states and Congress exclusive authority over election administration. Click HERE to view the full brief.",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z