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://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4079,"Larsen Announces New Funding to Save Lives, Improve Local Infrastructure",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), the top Democrat on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, applauded U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) announcement of nearly $1 billion in Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant funding for projects aimed at improving road safety for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Everett and Mukilteo will get the resources they need to improve the safety of streets and roads and save lives,” Larsen said. “SS4A funding stops preventable tragedies and supports efforts to keep people safe and the economy moving. I look forward to continued partnerships with local communities to improve transportation safety in Northwest Washington.”

Snohomish County Projects Awarded SS4A Grants

The SS4A program, which invests $5 billion over five years in regional, local and Tribal initiatives to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries, was established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Two projects in Washington’s Second Congressional District were awarded grants totaling $1.5 million in this round of grant announcements:

- $1.2 million for the City of Everett to update an Active Transportation Plan, prepare an Evergreen Way corridor safety and operations plan, and pilot Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)

- $300,000 for the City of Mukilteo to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.

Washington state was awarded a total of more than $9.9 million for 15 projects. In Snohomish County, in addition to the Everett and Mukilteo awards, Mill Creek was awarded $1.8 million.

What WA-02 Leaders Are Saying

“I want to thank Rep. Larsen for being a champion and tireless advocate for Everett. This funding will advance our Vision Zero Everett work - helping us take meaningful steps toward safer streets and a better connected community. Strong partnerships between local and federal leaders allow us to make lasting, meaningful improvements that make a difference: protecting lives, improving quality of life and driving economic growth,” said Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin.

“Mukilteo is committed to creating a community where residents feel safe traveling throughout the city. This funding allows us to work closely with the community to develop a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan that reflects local needs and improves safety for all roadway users. The plan is the first step toward establishing a prioritized list of projects, which will position the City to pursue future grant funding to implement safety improvements,” said Mukilteo Mayor Joe Marine.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-adam-smith-applauds-passage-sound-insulation-repair-program-protect,Congressman Adam Smith Applauds Passage of Sound Insulation Repair Program to Protect Airport-Adjacent Communities,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,adamsmith,https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash) celebrates the passage of the Sound Insulation Treatment Repair and Replacement Program Act, legislation to help families living near major airports repair or replace failing sound insulation systems.

For decades, federal sound insulation programs have reduced aircraft noise for nearby homes, but current rules generally prevent the Federal Aviation Administration from funding repairs when earlier insulation has deteriorated or failed.

This legislation creates a limited FAA pilot program allowing select large hub airports to repair or replace previously installed insulation, with strict eligibility and independent verification requirements to ensure the program remains narrowly focused.

“This legislation fixes a clear gap in federal policy that has left families dealing with failing sound insulation and no path forward,” said Representative Adam Smith. “It creates a targeted solution that helps protect public health and quality of life while supporting the continued operation of our aviation system.”

Statements of support:

“The Port wants to share our deepest gratitude to Representative Smith and Senator Murray for their multi-year leadership to get this important legislation passed into law. This provision will allow us to leverage our existing $5 million Port Levy Fund investment in our Sound Insulation Repair and Replacement Pilot Program to identify and fix an increased number of homes that are no longer receiving the expected noise protection. This is a win for the community, and the result of joint advocacy by the Port and the near-airport cities through the SEA Stakeholder Advisory Round Table (StART).” – Port of Seattle Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa.

“SeaTac proudly connects Washington to the world, and we believe that connectivity must be paired with practical protections for nearby neighborhoods. This proposal advances a focused, homeowner-centered approach to repairing or replacing aging sound insulation where it is no longer performing as intended.” – Mayor Mohamed Egal, City of SeaTac

“Senator Murray & Representative Smith saw our community's needs and we thank them for getting this legislation passed. This will help improve the quality of life for some Des Moines residents who are most impacted by living under SeaTac's flight paths. Passing this legislation is a real step forward."" – Mayor Traci Buxton, City of Des Moines

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/22/house-and-senate-immigration-leaders-rebuke-trump-dhs-proposal-that-would-punish-immigrant-families-for-lawfully-accessing-health-care-and-food-assistance/,House and Senate Immigration Leaders Rebuke Trump DHS Proposal That Would Punish Immigrant Families for Lawfully Accessing Health Care and Food Assistance,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — House and Senate immigration leaders submitted a formal regulatory comment to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) opposing the Trump Administration’s proposed “Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility” rule, warning that the proposal unlawfully rewrites longstanding immigration law and would deter immigrant families from accessing basic health, nutrition, and housing assistance they are legally entitled to receive.

The proposed rule would circumvent Congress to alter the meaning of “public charge,” a term that for more than 135 years has applied only to individuals who are primarily dependent on the government for subsistence. If an immigrant is determined likely to become a public charge, it can affect their eligibility to enter the U.S. The Trump Administration’s proposal would penalize immigrants for using supplemental benefits like health care, nutrition, or housing assistance that Congress deliberately made available to immigrant populations to support working families.

“DHS is seeking to circumvent Congress by administratively altering the 135-year-old meaning of the term ‘public charge’ in violation of congressional intent. […] Congress has deliberately rejected the very changes that DHS now seeks to implement administratively in complete defiance of our will and intent,” the Members wrote.

Congress has repeatedly revisited immigration law without ever redefining “public charge” to include the use of non-cash benefits. Federal agencies have long recognized that programs such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and housing assistance are supplemental benefits that promote public health, food security, and housing stability to help working families remain self-sufficient.

DHS’s proposal would ignite widespread fear and confusion in immigrant communities, leading families to forgo medical care, nutrition assistance, and housing support even when they qualify under federal law. DHS itself expressly concedes in the proposed rule that the policy could lead to worse health outcomes, increased poverty, housing instability, and greater use of emergency rooms for basic care—harms that would extend well beyond immigrant households to communities nationwide.

Congress has consistently made decisions about immigrants’ access to public benefits through eligibility rules, not by barring people from adjusting their immigration status for using those benefits. Recent legislation, including the 2025 reconciliation law, deliberately preserved access to key programs for certain immigrant populations.

For these reasons, the Members urge DHS to abandon the rule and maintain the 2022 regulations that reflect congressional intent, protect public health, and ensure that families are not punished for using lawful, life-sustaining assistance.

The comment was submitted by Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee; Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement; Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce; Sen. Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Sen. Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration; Sen. Bernie Sanders; and Sen. Ron Wyden.

Click here to read the comment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://baumgartner.house.gov/2025/12/19/after-colorado-acts-baumgartner-urges-governor-ferguson-to-opt-into-new-tax-credit-program-for-washington/,"After Colorado Acts, Baumgartner Urges Governor Ferguson to Opt Into New Tax Credit Program for Washington",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Michael Baumgartner,B001322,baumgartner.house.gov,baumgartner,https://baumgartner.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Congressman Michael Baumgartner (WA-05) is calling on Governor Bob Ferguson to act swiftly and ensure Washington families can benefit from the new federal Tax Credit Program for Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) created under the Working Families Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, landmark legislation passed by Republicans earlier this year.

“I applaud Governor Polis of Colorado for expanding his state’s access to the new tax credit, a major win for families and school choice,” said Congressman Baumgartner. “Now it’s time for Governor Ferguson to do the same for Washington. Our students, families, and communities deserve the same access to flexible, high-quality education opportunities. Bob Ferguson needs to show that he is a protector of Washington students and not a puppet of Washington’s teachers union.”

Effective January 1, 2027, this new federal tax credit will allow taxpayers to claim a refundable credit of up to $1,700 for individual filers who contribute to approved SGOs. These organizations provide scholarships to students attending public, private, and secondary schools, expanding access and flexibility for families to choose the educational environment that best fits their children.

Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, transportation, computers, special needs services, and other necessary educational expenses. Importantly, scholarships awarded through these SGOs will be tax-free income for recipients and their families — a direct investment in students and local schools.

To enable Washington residents to take further advantage of this opportunity with state groups, Governor Ferguson must submit a list of qualified non-profits eligible to be SGOs to the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury by January 1st. Several states are already taking action, including Colorado, whose Governor Jared Polis recently announced Colorado’s intention to participate.",1,2026-05-07T13:38:59Z,2026-05-07T13:40:28Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schrier-introduces-legislation-expand-access-healthy-nutritious,"Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Legislation to Expand Access to Healthy, Nutritious Food for Washington Families",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), and Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced the Expanding Access to (EAT) Healthy Foods from Local Farmers Act, bipartisan legislation that aims to improve Americans’ access to nutritious food by making commonsense updates to The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).

“As a doctor, particularly as a pediatrician, I understand the crucial role that proper nutrition plays in our development, health, and well-being, and, conversely, the relationship between poor nutrition and so many of the preventable diseases that plague us today,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “All Americans, regardless of their income, should have access to good nutrition, and my bill helps to work towards that reality by getting fresh produce from local farmers to local food banks.”

Earlier this year, funding for the USDA’s Local Food Purchase Assistance program, which allowed state and tribal governments to purchase and distribute regional foods, was cancelled. The EAT Healthy Foods Act provides a solution to the loss of this program by building a similar purchasing model into TEFAP.

TEFAP is a federal program that provides low-income Americans with nutrition assistance in emergency situations. Through TEFAP, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) purchases food and makes it available to local agencies such as food banks, soup kitchens, and more. Unfortunately, TEFAP is currently centered on long-lasting, processed products rather than fresh, local food. These restrictions make access to more nutritious produce out of reach for many American families.

The EAT Healthy Foods from Local Farmers Act will expand and improve TEFAP by providing organizations with better access to fresh food. Specifically, the bill will:

Add a new project type under TEFAP’s Farm to Food Bank Project Grants to provide federal funding to states for the purchase of locally grown food from small/beginning/underserved agricultural producers or entities to be distributed to emergency feeding organizations.

Create a USDA working group to review and reconsider how all USDA procurement can be directed to support a wider range of farmers, ranchers, and food distributors.

""Food banks in NW Oregon and across the country have increased demand as families deal with rising prices, changes to food assistance programs, and the lingering effects of the government shutdown,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “Expanding the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) will make it easier to increase the supply of healthy food to food banks and other emergency feeding organizations while benefitting small and medium sized local farms. This is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that will help address hunger and support farmers, and I hope we can pass it soon.

“Our farmers work hard every single day, and a lot of families rely on the fresh food they grow,” said Congressman Van Drew. “This bill helps support our small and underserved farmers, and at the same time it gets healthy local food to the food banks and pantries. That is what real community looks like, and I am proud to be a co-lead on this effort.”

Congresswoman Schrier also joined Congresswoman Bonamici in introducing the Supporting Transportation Organization and Refrigeration Expansion (STORE) Act. This legislation compliments the EAT Healthy Foods from Local Farmers Act by expanding access to food storage and transportation infrastructure for emergency food organizations.

The EAT Healthy Foods from Local Farmers Act is endorsed by NW Harvest, Harvest Against Hunger, and the Making a Difference Foundation.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/18/jayapal-fletcher-demand-answers-as-trump-cancels-immigration-applications-citizenship-ceremonies/,"Jayapal, Fletcher Demand Answers as Trump Cancels Immigration Applications, Citizenship Ceremonies",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Security, Integrity, and Enforcement, and Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) are demanding answers after the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced they would indefinitely pause the immigration process for nationals from the countries listed in Trump’s travel ban.

“Without clarity on how long this broad pause will last, soon-to-be citizens will be left in limbo for perpetuity, and families will be forced to remain separated,” wrote the Members. “What is clear is that no amount of vetting, moral character, or commitment to this country and its democratic values is enough to satiate the Trump Administration.”

Based solely on immigrants’ country of origin, Trump’s USCIS is both pausing and canceling green card interviews, applications, naturalization interviews, and even oath ceremonies for immigrants who have completed rigorous vetting and have secured citizenship. These are people who have followed every process and undergone extensive and repeated vetting to secure legal status.

“These naturalization ceremonies are a time of celebration, as soon-to-be U.S. citizens welcome their friends and family to witness their achievement of becoming a U.S. citizen. To deny this monumental achievement to those who have waited years, if not decades, to pledge the Oath of Allegiance. Delaying their naturalization through no fault of their own is a slap in the face to all those who have devoted their time and energy to become U.S. citizens,” continued the Members. “This sweeping action is unjustified, discriminatory, and inconsistent with our nation’s founding principles.”

The Members are demanding answers on a timeline for when the pause will be lifted, any new background and security checks that are being run in the meantime, and a full report to Congress.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

The letter was also signed by Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Pete Aguilar (CA-31), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Ami Bera (CA-06), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-27), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Herbert Conway (NJ-03), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Susie Lee (NV-03), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-09), John Mannion (NY-22), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Richard Neal (MA-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cotrez (NY14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Andrea Salinas (OR-29), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Norma Torres (CA-35), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/18/monopoly-busters-caucus-blasts-trump-administration-for-ending-key-partnership-with-states-that-protects-competition-in-the-agriculture-industry-lowers-prices-for-consumers/,"Monopoly Busters Caucus Blasts Trump Administration for Ending Key Partnership with States that Protects Competition in the Agriculture Industry, Lowers Prices for Consumers",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC -Today, The Monopoly Busters Caucus, led by Co-Chairs U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (MN-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Pat Ryan (NY-18), blasted the Trump Administration for ending a key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) partnership with bipartisan state attorneys general (AGs) that bolstered competition and tackled anticompetitive market structures in food and agricultural markets that have driven up prices for working Americans.

Through the Agricultural Competition Partnership (ACP), USDA previously provided $15 million in funding, support, and expertise to under-resourced state AG offices to help facilitate partnerships between federal and state law enforcement in order to achieve fairer, more competitive markets and more resilient supply chains. This included a focus on price gouging and addressing market structure problems, barriers to competition, and conflicts of interest.

In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, the caucus stressed the importance of the ACP in combatting market consolidation, which has decreased margins for family farmers, producers and small business owners, while increasing prices for consumers. The Members also demanded answers from Secretary Rollins about how USDA plans to promote competition in the food and agriculture industries and supply emergency price relief to American farmers, workers and consumers.

“Ending the partnership with state AGs threatens competition and is contrary to President Trump’s stated goals of lowering food prices, helping struggling independent farmers, and promoting national security,” the Members wrote.

“Consolidation in the food and agriculture markets is significant and remains a growing problem for farmers and consumers,” the Members continued. “In consolidated markets like food and agriculture, dominant firms are able to abuse their market power, cutting costs and underinvesting in workers, supply chains, and key food infrastructure; forcing consumers and small businesses to pay higher prices; and reducing choice and quality in the marketplace. As consolidation has accelerated, hundreds of thousands of independent farms have shuttered, hurting rural communities, limiting production, and hindering food accessibility.”

“Although the Trump Administration has claimed it intends to ‘deliver emergency price relief’ to defeat the ‘cost-of-living crisis’ and implement ‘America First Priorities,’ walking away from the ACP with state AGs signals you are abandoning antitrust efforts that could actually address rising food prices for consumers and rising costs for farmers,” the Members concluded.

The letter was signed by Reps. Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Jerry Nadler (NY-10), André Carson (IN-07), Becca Balint (VT-AL) and Greg Casar (TX-35).

You can read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/18/monopoly-busters-caucus-chairs-call-for-an-investigation-into-instacarts-personalized-price-gouging/,Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Call for an Investigation into Instacart’s Personalized Price Gouging,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs, Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Angie Craig (MN-02), released the following statement calling for an investigation into Instacart’s reported use of AI-driven surveillance pricing to charge different customers different prices for the same items:

“We are deeply alarmed by reports that Instacart is using AI to hike prices on unsuspecting customers based on their shopping habits. People shouldn’t be charged higher prices than their neighbors for the same milk or eggs because their grocery app is profiling them. This is personalized price gouging, plain and simple.

“While hardworking Americans struggle to afford groceries, corporations like Instacart are inventing new ways to rip them off. Surveillance pricing is a blatant abuse of power by big tech — automating greed and making consumers pay the price.

“Enough is enough. With Instacart processing hundreds of millions of orders yearly, these practices warrant urgent action. The FTC and state regulators must immediately investigate Instacart and hold it accountable for ripping off its customers. And we need to ban personalized price gouging to ensure that everyone pays a fair price.”

Background

Instacart’s pricing tactics are detailed in a new report from Groundwork Collaborative and Consumer Reports, “Same Cart, Different Price.” The report describes how Instacart uses AI-driven “price experiments” to maximize margins by charging different customers different prices for identical items at the same store. According to the report, Instacart deploys software from its subsidiary Eversight to identify the highest price an individual is willing to pay. This results in observed price swings as high as 23% and a potential “Instacart Tax” of $1,200 per year for a typical family. The investigation found that 74% of items tested were subject to these secret experiments.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/18/quigley-jayapal-mcbride-foushee-lead-legislation-to-endtrump-use-of-police-for-immigration-enforcement/,"Quigley, Jayapal, McBride, Foushee Lead Legislation to EndTrump Use of Police for Immigration Enforcement",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04) re-introduced the Protecting the Rights of Towns against federal Enforcement contrary to Constitutional Tenets for (PROTECT) Immigration Act, legislation which would end the deputization of local and state police departments to enforce immigration law. The PROTECT Immigration Act would rescind the statutory authority for the federal government’s 287(g) Program, which allows the Department of Homeland Security to enter into agreements with state and local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration law.

“The Trump administration just spent months terrorizing immigrants in the Chicagoland area. Their actions led to domestic violence victims fleeing a courthouse rather than receive restraining orders against their abusers, all out of fear that ICE or local law enforcement would detain and deport them,” said Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05). “I met with immigrants and their neighbors who are afraid to call for help or report crimes in their neighborhoods because of Trump’s deliberate erosion of trust between communities and local police. And now the Trump administration is running ads targeting local police and offering $50,000 signing bonuses to pull critical law enforcement away from day-to-day policing in order to arrest and detain hardworking immigrants with no criminal records. We must bring an end to the 287(g) program and cut off one of the avenues this administration has exploited to intimidate immigrant communities.”

“Allowing local law enforcement to be deputized to kidnap and disappear immigrants undercuts the trust that local police rely on to maintain public safety in our communities,” said Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). “Immigrants and their U.S. citizen loved ones stop reporting crimes out of fear of being kidnapped and deported. Local police are spread thin enforcing federal civil immigration law. We know that Trump is not targeting criminals, he is targeting our friends, neighbors, co-workers, and pillars of our community. This lawlessness must end immediately.”

“I’m proud to co-lead this legislation with Congressman Quigley to restore trust, safety, and integrity to our immigration system. For too long, the 287(g) program has drained local resources, fueled racial profiling, and made communities less safe — and it’s time we end it. The PROTECT Immigration Act makes clear that immigration enforcement belongs with trained federal authorities, guaranteeing that local law enforcement can focus exclusively on keeping our communities safe. This bill would take a step toward restoring trust between local communities and police departments so every family can live with dignity and without fear,” said Representative Sarah McBride (DE-At Large).

“The Trump Administration’s attempt to expand the 287(g) Program is a direct assault on civil rights and the Constitution,” said Representative Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “Having served in local law enforcement for more than 20 years, I know policing should protect and support our communities, not divide it, and deputizing local officers into immigration enforcers only erodes public trust, undermines public safety, and deepens fear. We need laws in place that restore fairness and uphold justice. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the PROTECT Immigration Act, which will reverse this harmful program and take an important step toward repairing the flaws in our broken immigration system.”

“In just one year, the Trump administration has massively expanded the 287(g) program and distorted it in ways Congress never intended, exploiting local law enforcement resources for its dystopian mass deportation agenda,” said Naureen Shah, director of policy and government affairs for the ACLU’s Equality Division. “Enlisting local law enforcement for mass deportations isn’t just a waste of taxpayer dollars – it terrorizes our communities, undermines public safety and fuels racial profiling. We thank Congressman Quigley for his leadership and urge our members of Congress to pass the PROTECT Immigration Act without delay.”

“The rapid expansion of the 287(g) program under the Trump administration represents yet another way that mass deportation undermines public safety for all Americans. When local police serve as a force multiplier for ICE, people become more afraid to report crime and less trusting of local police officers. Local law enforcement agencies should prioritize real public safety concerns in their communities rather than waste limited manpower making traffic stops that turn into detention and deportation for long-standing community members who pose no threat. The PROTECT Act takes the overdue step of repealing a program that is unnecessary for effective enforcement of immigration laws, but continues to have a harmful track record for public safety,” said Nayna Gupta, Policy Director at the American Immigration Council.

Quigley has championed the PROTECT Immigration Act since 2017.

The PROTECT Immigration Act would:

Repeal the statutory authority for the 287(g) Program; and

Clarify that state and local law enforcement lack “inherent authority” to arrest people for suspected immigration offenses.

The legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (Del.-DC), Sarah Jacobs (CA-51), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Henry “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/18/ranking-member-jayapal-denounces-the-trump-administrations-shameful-denaturalization-quota/,Ranking Member Jayapal Denounces the Trump Administration’s Shameful Denaturalization Quota,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, issued the following statement in response to new guidance that the Trump Administration will require U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to “supply Office of Immigration Litigation with 100-200 denaturalization cases per month” to increase denaturalizations:

“I am absolutely outraged by the Trump Administration’s plan to denaturalize American citizens by the hundreds every single month and use the immigration system to terrorize immigrants across this country, including US citizens. According to reports, between 2017 and today, there have been just over 120 denaturalization cases filed in total. These arbitrary numerical targets Trump has put out show that he is using the immigration system to go after anyone who disagrees with him, anyone who comes from countries he doesn’t like or decides to call ‘shithole’ countries, anyone he wants to terrorize into submission. Trump’s campaign of terror has never been about going after the ‘worst of the worst,’ and this latest move makes that crystal clear.

“Every U.S. citizen should be outraged by this. If he can do this to ‘them,’ he can certainly do it to you.

“As a proud naturalized citizen myself, one of only two dozen to serve in the United States Congress and now the top Democrat on the Immigration Subcommittee, I understand the deep meaning and privilege of becoming a US citizen. I came to this country when I was 16, alone, and with nothing in my pockets, and spent 17 years on an alphabet soup of visas before becoming a U.S. citizen. I treasure that moment to this day and take seriously my oath to this country — as so many millions of naturalized citizens do. The process is lengthy and meaningful, offering the security of knowing I am at home here, never to be separated from my U.S. citizen child and spouse or from the country where I’ve built my life and career. The idea that our own government would now seek to rip away this sacred bond that binds naturalized citizens to our country will harm all Americans, and indeed, the very idea of America.

“I call on the President to remember our history. We are a country built on the idea of being a refuge for those in need, a country where anyone can work hard and get ahead. Ultimately, immigration is about more than just who comes here and who is allowed to stay. It is about who we are as a country and what we are willing to stand up for.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4077,Larsen Celebrates Wins for Washington State in Coast Guard Authorization Act,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the Senate passed the Coast Guard Authorization Act (CGAA) as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act:

“The Coast Guard Authorization Act invests in Washington state’s Coasties and the communities they serve – from better equipping marine firefighters to preventing and responding to oil spills to extending the whale desk,” said Rep. Larsen. “I have proudly supported this bill to make sure the women and men who keep our seas safe have the resources they need to achieve mission success and protect Washingtonians. I am glad to see it move to the President’s desk and I urge him to sign it into law.”

The CGAA includes key provisions to support Coasties in the Pacific Northwest and keep Washingtonians safe, including:

Extension of the Cetacean Desk

The CGAA provides a two-year extension of the pilot program that established the whale desk at Coast Guard Base Seattle. This program provides real-time whale location data for mariners to prevent ship strikes and noise disturbance while also protecting whale species.

International Oil Spill Contingency Planning

In response to the increased oil tanker traffic entering Canadian waters north of Puget Sound, the CGAA requires the Coast Guard to update and modernize oil spill response plans and agreements with Canada in the event of a cross-jurisdiction spill.

Salvaging and Marine Firefighting (SMFF)

In response to the tragic passing of a community member during the 2022 sinking of the Aleutian Isle off Sunset Point in Rep. Larsen’s district, the CGAA allows for verification of SMFF capacity in vessel response plans to ensure that ships are stocked with the necessary salvage and marine firefighting equipment.

Seattle Property Negotiating

The CGAA broadens the scope of cooperative agreements into which the U.S. Coast Guard can enter, including with Tribal organizations. This will allow the Coast Guard to better negotiate with Muckleshoot and Suquamish tribes over land and water use while modernizing Base Seattle.

Tsunami Preparedness

The CGAA requires every Coast Guard base or station located in a high-tsunami-risk area to develop an evacuation plan in coordination with local governments, conduct regular drills and conduct follow-ups with servicemembers and staff.

Rep. Larsen is the top Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, which has jurisdiction over the U.S. Coast Guard. In that role, Rep. Larsen introduced and secured passage of the CGAA through the Committee by a 60-0 vote and the House by a 399-12 vote.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4078,"Larsen and WA Democratic Members Demand Answers from ICE on Deteriorating Conditions and Inadequate Food, Medical Care, and Access to Legal Counsel at NWIPC",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Democratic members of Washington state’s congressional delegation sent aletter to Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Todd Lyons expressing grave concerns with conditions at the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC) in Tacoma, Washington and demanding answers to a long list of questions regarding overcrowding and lack of access to medical services, food, and legal counsel for individuals detained at the facility. The population at NWIPC has ballooned over the past year under the Trump administration’s indiscriminate and cruel mass deportation campaign, nearing—and at times exceeding—the facility’s maximum capacity of 1,575.

In addition to Rep. Larsen, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), as well as U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09) and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10), also signed the letter.

“Our offices have received reports from local service providers and advocates that conditions and access to services at NWIPC have deteriorated in the last year as ICE has chosen to detain more individuals at the facility,” the Members wrote in their letter. “In June, detained individuals were reportedly transferred to Alaska—far away from their families and legal representatives—because NWIPC reached capacity. None of this is remotely acceptable—you and the entire Trump administration have a basic moral and legal obligation to the people who have been detained and are under your care.”

“It is well established at this point that this Administration is not prioritizing detaining violent criminals, but instead is detaining mostly peaceful, law-abiding immigrants with no criminal record who work hard and contribute to our communities,” the lawmakers continued. “With this in mind, we urge ICE to release noncitizens who do not pose a threat to public safety and to ensure necessary staff levels at NWIPC to protect the safety and basic dignity of the people in its custody.”

In the letter, the Members raise concern over the lack of medical care for individuals detained at NWIPC and other ICE facilities, writing: “We are deeply concerned that the facility does not have sufficient medical staff and dedicated space to adequately provide medical care to the increased number of detained noncitizens. Additionally, we are incredibly concerned about challenges detainees face in accessing behavioral health care and other specialty care.”

The lawmakers’ letter also draws attention to reports from advocates that at least three pregnant women detained at NWIPC over the past year have been unable to receive appropriate medical care. Advocates also shared that at least one pregnant woman was shackled during transportation, which violates agency policy and raises concerns that medical information, such as whether a woman is pregnant, is not being properly documented by the facility.

The Members continued by raising concerns over the inadequate provision of meals at NWIPC and difficulty that detained individuals have in accessing legal counsel, writing: “Attorneys have faced significant delays to meet with their clients, making adequate legal counsel more difficult. This has become especially challenging when immigration courts advance noncitizens’ hearings by months without sufficient warning. At times, attorneys have had to wait at the facility for up to 6 hours to see their clients.”

The letter concludes by requesting answers to a list of questions by January 16th regarding capacity and staffing levels at NWIPC, the provision of food and medical care, access to legal counsel, treatment of pregnant women, and recent facility visits. “Please understand that we are paying close attention to the conditions at NWIPC—and your management of this facility,” the Members wrote. “We urge you to promptly review these concerns and take immediate steps to improve conditions and practices at NWIPC to comply with existing standards and laws and ensure that people in immigration detention are being treated with basic dignity and respect. Violations of the law or any abuse of human rights will not go unnoticed or unchallenged.”

The lawmakers’ full letter to ICE is available HERE and below:

Dear Acting Director Lyons:

We are writing to share our grave concerns with conditions at the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC) in Tacoma, Washington and to request information about access to medical services, food, and legal counsel for detained noncitizens at the facility. Our offices have received reports from local service providers and advocates that conditions and access to services at NWIPC have deteriorated in the last year as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has chosen to detain more individuals at the facility. In June, detained individuals were reportedly transferred to Alaska—far away from their families and legal representatives—because NWIPC reached capacity.

None of this is remotely acceptable—you and the entire Trump administration have a basic moral and legal obligation to the people who have been detained and are under your care.

You must ensure the facility complies with the 2011 Performance-Based National Detention Standards as revised in 2016 (PBNDS 2011) to keep detained noncitizens safe and healthy while protecting the rights they are entitled to under law.

It is well established at this point that this administration is not prioritizing detaining violent criminals, but instead is detaining mostly peaceful, law-abiding immigrants with no criminal record who work hard and contribute to our communities. With this in mind, we urge ICE to release noncitizens who do not pose a threat to public safety and to ensure necessary staff levels at NWIPC to protect the safety and basic dignity of the people in its custody.

Medical Care

The federal government has a moral and legal obligation to protect the health of individuals in its custody. We have had long-standing concerns about access to medical services in ICE detention facilities. In recent years, several members of the Washington Congressional delegation requested that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a comprehensive review of the quality and accessibility of medical services for individuals in ICE custody. At times this year, NWIPC has exceeded 1,500 individuals in custody, nearing the facility’s maximum capacity of 1,575 individuals. We are deeply concerned that the facility does not have sufficient medical staff and dedicated space to adequately provide medical care to the increased number of detained noncitizens.

Additionally, we are incredibly concerned about challenges detainees face in accessing behavioral health care and other specialty care. During an August 2025 site visit, facility staff indicated the facility employed only four behavioral health staffers. There were reports of at least two suicide attempts at NWIPC in April. It is plainly inadequate to have four behavioral health staff serving the 1,500 detainees under the facility’s care, especially given the fact that serious behavioral health issues frequently emerge under the severe stress of detention. We are also alarmed by reports from advocates with access to the facility that at least three detained pregnant women at NWIPC have been unable to receive appropriate medical care, even after they request specialty prenatal care appointments. Regular exams such as ultrasounds are necessary to monitor development and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Advocates also shared that at least one pregnant woman was shackled during transportation, which violates agency policy and raises concerns that medical information, such as whether a woman is pregnant, is not being properly documented by the facility.

Food

The Seattle Times recently reported on the inadequate provision of meals at NWIPC as the detained population has increased. Advocates who speak with detainees have shared that meals are provided late and, in some cases, detainees did not receive three meals per day. Detainees have made complaints about food and sanitation for many years, and we urge the facility to be responsive to the nutritional needs of individuals in its custody. Legal service providers with access to the facility have also shared that detainees waiting for video teleconferencing (VTC) hearings may miss meals. We urge the facility to ensure that all detained noncitizens, including those awaiting hearings or visits, are provided a minimum of three meals per day, as required by national detention standards (PBNDS 2011).

Access to Legal Counsel

Access to legal resources for noncitizens in immigration detention supports their ability to understand their rights and navigate immigration court, preventing backlogs in the immigration court system. Detained noncitizens at NWIPC face several concerning barriers to accessing legal counsel. Attorneys have faced significant delays to meet with their clients, making adequate legal counsel more difficult. This has become especially challenging when immigration courts advance noncitizens’ hearings by months without sufficient warning. At times, attorneys have had to wait at the facility for up to 6 hours to see their clients. This August, two of the seven attorney visitation rooms were being used as Virtual Attorney Visitation rooms (VAVs) and two were being used for video teleconferencing (VTC) hearings, leaving only three rooms available for attorneys to meet with their clients in person. We have also heard from advocates with access to the facility that, at times, only one visitation room was available and interviews for facility staff were being conducted in these attorney visitation rooms.

In the Fiscal Year 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, Congress provided $10,000,000 for ICE to improve legal resources for noncitizen detainees, including to expand video attorney visitation. During an August 2025 site visit, NWIPC staff indicated that the facility recently implemented a new scheduling system to reserve attorney visitation rooms. We ask that the facility work with attorneys to resolve any issues that arise with the new system expeditiously so as not to delay access to legal counsel. We urge you to improve access to legal counsel by ensuring attorney visitation rooms remain available for attorneys to meet with their clients.

Given these concerns, we request answers to the following questions by January 16, 2026:

1. What is the maximum capacity of NWIPC, as determined by the fire marshal? As of November 1, 2025, how many individuals were detained at the facility?

2. How many staff were employed by NWIPC on January 20, 2025? Of this cohort, how many were trained and certified medical services providers who routinely provided direct medical services?

3. As of November 1, 2025, how many staff were employed by NWIPC? Of this cohort, how many were trained and certified medical services providers who routinely provide direct medical services?

4. As of November 1, 2025, how many pregnant women were detained at NWIPC? How often have these women requested, and how often have they received, prenatal care appointments with a specialist?

5. How many days in the last six months has the facility not provided three meals each day to every noncitizen in its custody?

- Why did the facility not provide three meals each day to every noncitizen?

- For each day, for how many noncitizens were three meals not provided?

6. What is the current status of the Legal Orientation Program (LOP) at NWIPC? Are noncitizens able to access LOP daily? What are the hours of availability each day? Outside of hours, are there any other restrictions on daily LOP access, and if so, what are they and why are they in place?

7. How many attorney visitation rooms are currently available for in-person attorney meetings? How many attorney visitation rooms are currently available for virtual attorney meetings?

- In the last six months, have the attorney visitation rooms been used for a purpose other than attorney-client meetings (in-person or virtual) or video teleconferencing (VTC) hearings?

8. When were the most recent facility visits by the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Inspector General, DHS Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO), the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and ICE oversight personnel (whether the Office of Professional Responsibility or otherwise)? What, if any, recommendations were made after each visit? What progress has been made to implement such recommendations?

9. OIDO issued a report in November 2024 following an inspection of NWIPC. While 11 of the recommendations have been addressed, one remains outstanding. What progress has been made on implementing the remaining recommendation?

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Please understand that we are paying close attention to the conditions at NWIPC—and your management of this facility.

We urge you to promptly review these concerns and take immediate steps to improve conditions and practices at NWIPC to comply with existing standards and laws and ensure that people in immigration detention are being treated with basic dignity and respect.

Violations of the law or any abuse of human rights will not go unnoticed or unchallenged.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4236,"DelBene, Moore Lead Inquiry into How IRS is Using AI",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Gwen Moore (WI-04), along with Members of the House Ways and Means Committee, sent a letter to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding the agency’s use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to write code used to manage Americans’ taxpayer data.

A recent study found that AI-generated source code is frequently inaccurate. Developers often spend as much or more time checking and rewriting the code that AI systems produced than if they were to write it themselves.

The lawmakers are seeking answers about the IRS’s plan to rely on AI tools to interface with its decades-old Common Business-Oriented Language (COBOL) systems, which continue to underpin the Individual Master File (IMF), the core repository for taxpayer information since the 1960s. These questions come at an especially critical time when the IRS has already lost 25% of its IT staff since early 2025, and the next tax filing season is just around the corner.

“We hope this Administration shares our goal of ensuring any use of AI by the IRS is appropriately scrutinized, especially given the importance and significance of maintaining the integrity of the IMF and protecting taxpayer data from inappropriate access or exposure,” the lawmakers wrote.

They expressed concerns about the risks of using AI, especially when dealing with systems that manage sensitive taxpayer information and which are also responsible for processing tax returns for hundreds of millions of Americans. In the letter, the lawmakers sought information on the agency’s current and future AI use with its legacy COBOL systems, efforts to address potential inaccuracies and limitations, and taxpayer data protections.

Questions raised include:

To what extent has the IRS already started deploying AI to interact with its legacy COBOL systems and what future deployments are planned?

What processes are in place to review the conversions and AI source coding before, during, and after new AI-created code implementation to ensure it is accurate, including ensuring that AI-generated code is free of hidden errors or unintended behaviors that might not appear during standard testing?

What specific protections for the taxpayer data protected by Internal Revenue Code section 6103 are in place?

The letter requested a written response from the IRS no later than January 10, 2025.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4237,"DelBene, Whitehouse Introduce Carbon Border Adjustment to Boost Domestic Manufacturers, Tackle Climate Change",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Senate Environment and Public Works Ranking Member Sheldon Whitehouse (RI) reintroduced the Clean Competition Act, legislation to make American companies more competitive in the global marketplace and cut planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions with a carbon border adjustment.

On average, U.S. manufacturers are over 50 percent less carbon-intensive than manufacturers in the rest of the world. Chinese manufacturers are more than three times as carbon-intensive as American ones, and India’s are more than four times as carbon-intensive.

The Clean Competition Act would create a U.S. carbon border adjustment linked to a new domestic industrial performance standard. Importing foreign producers or domestic manufacturers that exceeded the standard would be required to pay a charge for any emissions over the standard. The levy would begin at $60 per ton and increase by six percent above inflation per year.

The bill would cover the imports and domestic manufacturing of energy-intensive industries, including fossil fuels, refined petroleum products, petrochemicals, fertilizer, hydrogen, adipic acid, cement, iron and steel, aluminum, glass, pulp and paper, and ethanol. In 2028, coverage would begin expanding to more complex downstream goods.

The president would be able to negotiate carbon clubs to drive down global greenhouse gas emissions and expand markets for low-carbon industrial goods. In exchange, countries would be able to receive a reduction in foreign carbon intensity charges and first preference for the bill’s foreign assistance funding.

“For too long, American industries producing goods in a less carbon-intensive way have been undercut by foreign competitors with dirtier production processes. Washington saw this firsthand with the closure of the Intalco aluminum smelter due to Chinese overproduction, resulting in the loss of over 700 good-paying union jobs. We can address the climate crisis while defending American industries with the Clean Competition Act,” said DelBene. “A fee on high-carbon producers would incentivize industries around the world to prioritize decarbonization and create a level playing field for American workers in these sectors.”

“American manufacturers are already among the cleanest in the world, yet they face unfair competition from countries that do nothing to curb their pollution. The free-to-pollute business model is economically disastrous and environmentally dangerous,” said Whitehouse. “The carbon border adjustment is the world’s last lifeboat to climate safety, and other nations are moving fast: the EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism begins in January, and the UK and Australia look poised to join them. If we don’t act now, American manufacturers will have to pay fees abroad without any protection at home. The Clean Competition Act buys us entry into this emerging coalition of allies and ensures that foreign competitors who pollute more pay more.”

The House bill is co-led by Representatives Ami Bera, MD (CA-06), Don Beyer (VA-08), Kathy Castor (FL-14), and co-sponsored by Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Judy Chu (CA-28). The Senate bill is co-sponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (CT), Martin Heinrich (NM), Brian Schatz (HI), Chris Van Hollen (MD), and Peter Welch (VT). ,

It is endorsed by C2ES, Carbon180, Center for American Progress Action Fund, Ceres, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Environmental Defense Fund, Foreign Policy for America, National Wildlife Federation, and Sierra Club.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/17/jayapal-statement-on-newhouse-retirement/,Jayapal Statement on Newhouse Retirement,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement on the retirement of Dan Newhouse (WA-04):

“It has been an honor to serve in the Washington State Delegation with Representative Newhouse, and I have greatly appreciated his leadership to provide a roadmap to citizenship for farmworkers and partnership on local issues, including designating MoPOP as the National Museum of Pop Culture.

“I also thank him for the courage he exhibited as one of only ten House Republicans who stood up for our democracy and the rule of law in this country by voting to impeach Donald Trump after the January 6th attack.

“He will be missed in Congress, and I wish him and his family the best in retirement.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/17/subcommittee-ranking-member-jayapals-opening-statement-at-hearing-on-trumps-assault-on-legal-immigration/,Subcommittee Ranking Member Jayapal’s Opening Statement at Hearing on Trump’s Assault on Legal Immigration,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, delivered opening remarks at a hearing on President Donald Trump’s assault on the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program.

Below are Ranking Member Jayapal’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at today’s hearing.

WATCH Subcommittee Ranking Member Jayapal’s opening statement.

Ranking Member Pramila Jayapal

Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement

Hearing on “The Impacts of Temporary Protected Status”

December 17, 2025

Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this hearing on an issue that goes to the core of who we are as a country: Temporary Protected Status (or TPS). This program, established by Congress in 1990, provides people who are already in the United States a safe haven when their home countries are devastated by armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary conditions. TPS is built on the simple idea that we as a country should not force people back to deadly and life-threatening conditions. This principle has guided both Republican and Democratic administrations for decades.

But today, the Trump Administration is dismantling this long-standing commitment. They are ending TPS for countries where conditions are still extraordinarily dangerous. Countries like Haiti, Venezuela, and South Sudan, all of which the Department of State currently lists under “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisories, because of the dangerous and unstable conditions there. Let’s be honest about what this means. When TPS is terminated for these countries, we are forcing people to return to real and imminent harm. The actions by Secretary Noem will lead to people’s deaths. That goes against everything this country is supposed to stand for as well as our own laws. I’m sad to see us go down this path. But I can’t say I’m surprised.

This is all part of this administration’s mass deportation agenda, which is wreaking havoc on this country. Heavily armed, masked men are terrorizing communities all across America, under the guise of immigration enforcement. They are snatching people of all immigration statuses on the street and refusing to identify themselves.

And even U.S. citizens have not been spared. There are too many reports of U.S. citizens being wrongfully detained, and oftentimes with violent force. Just last week, a U.S. citizen in Minnesota was tackled by a masked agent running full speed. He was put in a chokehold and dragged into the agent’s vehicle. Despite repeatedly telling the agents that he was a U.S. citizen and that he had proof of citizenship on his phone, he was held for several hours and driven to a facility miles away, before finally being released and told to walk back in the snow.

This comes as Homeland Security Investigations has said in court filings that the Trump Administration does not consider REAL IDs to be reliable proof of lawful status. I’m not sure how any of us are supposed to feel safe from being kidnapped and disappeared off the streets.

And the Trump Administration’s relentless attack on TPS is only making things worse. TPS recipients aren’t outsiders in our communities. They live in our neighborhoods, raise their families here, and help keep local economies running. Nearly 600,000 U.S. citizens – including more than 260,000 U.S. citizen children – live in households with TPS recipients.

TPS has also allowed hundreds of thousands of people to work legally, often in industries that are already experiencing severe labor shortages. These are folks working in construction, hospitality, food processing, and manufacturing – the kinds of jobs that keep our economy running and that many businesses are struggling to fill. They pay taxes, support local businesses, and contribute billions of dollars to our economy every single year. In all, TPS holders contribute about $21 billion annually to the U.S. economy, and they pay $5.2 billion in combined federal, payroll, state, and local taxes. They also contribute about $690 million annually to Social Security.

Many TPS holders have lived in the United States for years, often decades—living in 12- to 18-month renewal increments. As such, they are among the most frequently vetted immigrants in the country. They have followed our laws, paid their taxes, and demonstrated their commitment to this country. Instead of stripping them of their legal status and sending them back to dangerous conditions, we should be providing them with a path to long-term stability.

This is why when Democrats were in the majority, we passed H.R. 6, the American Dream and Promise Act on a bipartisan basis in the 116th and 117th Congresses. That legislation would have provided a path to citizenship for individuals who currently had or were eligible for TPS.

The Trump Administration loves to claim that it is only going after criminals and the “worst of the worst.” But we know that is a lie. Many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle used to say they love legal immigration, but have been silent as this administration does everything it can to end legal immigration, including decimating TPS and throwing the lawful status of over a million people into limbo.

We should be working toward an immigration system that is modernized, fair, and in line with the needs of our families and economy. Attacking legal immigration is not just morally wrong, it makes absolutely no sense.

Thank you, and I look forward to hearing from our witnesses. I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/17/wa-democratic-members-demand-answers-from-ice-on-deteriorating-conditions-and-inadequate-food-medical-care-and-access-to-legal-counsel-at-nwipc/,"WA Democratic Members Demand Answers from ICE on Deteriorating Conditions and Inadequate Food, Medical Care, and Access to Legal Counsel at NWIPC",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, led Members of the Washington state Congressional delegation in a letter to Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Todd Lyons, expressing grave concerns with conditions at the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC) in Tacoma, Washington and demanding answers to a long list of questions regarding overcrowding and lack of access to medical services, food, and legal counsel for individuals detained at the facility. The population at NWIPC has ballooned over the past year under the Trump administration’s indiscriminate and cruel mass deportation campaign, nearing—and at times exceeding—the facility’s maximum capacity of 1,575.

The letter was sent to ICE by: Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10).

“Our offices have received reports from local service providers and advocates that conditions and access to services at NWIPC have deteriorated in the last year as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has chosen to detain more individuals at the facility,” the Members wrote in their letter. “In June, detained individuals were reportedly transferred to Alaska—far away from their families and legal representatives—because NWIPC reached capacity. None of this is remotely acceptable—you and the entire Trump administration have a basic moral and legal obligation to the people who have been detained and are under your care.”

“It is well established at this point that this administration is not prioritizing detaining violent criminals, but instead is detaining mostly peaceful, law-abiding immigrants with no criminal record who work hard and contribute to our communities,” the lawmakers continued. “With this in mind, we urge ICE to release noncitizens who do not pose a threat to public safety and to ensure necessary staff levels at NWIPC to protect the safety and basic dignity of the people in its custody.”

In the letter, the Members raise concern over the lack of medical care for individuals detained at NWIPC and other ICE facilities, writing: “We are deeply concerned that the facility does not have sufficient medical staff and dedicated space to adequately provide medical care to the increased number of detained noncitizens. Additionally, we are incredibly concerned about challenges detainees face in accessing behavioral health care and other specialty care.”

The lawmakers’ letter also draws attention to reports from advocates that at least three pregnant women detained at NWIPC over the past year have been unable to receive appropriate medical care. Advocates also shared that at least one pregnant woman was shackled during transportation, which violates agency policy and raises concerns that medical information, such as whether a woman is pregnant, is not being properly documented by the facility.

The Members continued by raising concerns over the inadequate provision of meals at NWIPC and difficulty that detained individuals have in accessing legal counsel, writing: “Attorneys have faced significant delays to meet with their clients, making adequate legal counsel more difficult. This has become especially challenging when immigration courts advance noncitizens’ hearings by months without sufficient warning. At times, attorneys have had to wait at the facility for up to 6 hours to see their clients.”

The letter concludes by requesting answers to a list of questions by January 16th regarding capacity and staffing levels at NWIPC, the provision of food and medical care, access to legal counsel, treatment of pregnant women, and recent facility visits. “Please understand that we are paying close attention to the conditions at NWIPC—and your management of this facility,” the Members wrote. “We urge you to promptly review these concerns and take immediate steps to improve conditions and practices at NWIPC to comply with existing standards and laws and ensure that people in immigration detention are being treated with basic dignity and respect. Violations of the law or any abuse of human rights will not go unnoticed or unchallenged.”

Members of Washington state’s Congressional delegation have been conducting oversight of NWIPC throughout this year, despite the Trump administration’s efforts to block Congressional oversight of federal immigration detention facilities. After a protracted legal battle over Washington state’s ability to enforce health and safety standards at NWIPC, a federal appeals court ruled in August that the state should be allowed to enforce such standards at the detention center, and that failure to comply could result in fines of up to $10,000 per violation.

The lawmakers’ full letter to ICE is available HERE and below:

Dear Acting Director Lyons:

We are writing to share our grave concerns with conditions at the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC) in Tacoma, Washington and to request information about access to medical services, food, and legal counsel for detained noncitizens at the facility. Our offices have received reports from local service providers and advocates that conditions and access to services at NWIPC have deteriorated in the last year as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has chosen to detain more individuals at the facility. In June, detained individuals were reportedly transferred to Alaska—far away from their families and legal representatives—because NWIPC reached capacity.

None of this is remotely acceptable—you and the entire Trump administration have a basic moral and legal obligation to the people who have been detained and are under your care.

You must ensure the facility complies with the 2011 Performance-Based National Detention Standards as revised in 2016 (PBNDS 2011) to keep detained noncitizens safe and healthy while protecting the rights they are entitled to under law.

It is well established at this point that this administration is not prioritizing detaining violent criminals, but instead is detaining mostly peaceful, law-abiding immigrants with no criminal record who work hard and contribute to our communities. With this in mind, we urge ICE to release noncitizens who do not pose a threat to public safety and to ensure necessary staff levels at NWIPC to protect the safety and basic dignity of the people in its custody.

Medical Care

The federal government has a moral and legal obligation to protect the health of individuals in its custody. We have had long-standing concerns about access to medical services in ICE detention facilities. In recent years, several members of the Washington Congressional delegation requested that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a comprehensive review of the quality and accessibility of medical services for individuals in ICE custody. At times this year, NWIPC has exceeded 1,500 individuals in custody, nearing the facility’s maximum capacity of 1,575 individuals. We are deeply concerned that the facility does not have sufficient medical staff and dedicated space to adequately provide medical care to the increased number of detained noncitizens.

Additionally, we are incredibly concerned about challenges detainees face in accessing behavioral health care and other specialty care. During an August 2025 site visit, facility staff indicated the facility employed only four behavioral health staffers. There were reports of at least two suicide attempts at NWIPC in April. It is plainly inadequate to have four behavioral health staff serving the 1,500 detainees under the facility’s care, especially given the fact that serious behavioral health issues frequently emerge under the severe stress of detention. We are also alarmed by reports from advocates with access to the facility that at least three detained pregnant women at NWIPC have been unable to receive appropriate medical care, even after they request specialty prenatal care appointments. Regular exams such as ultrasounds are necessary to monitor development and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Advocates also shared that at least one pregnant woman was shackled during transportation, which violates agency policy and raises concerns that medical information, such as whether a woman is pregnant, is not being properly documented by the facility.

Food

The Seattle Times recently reported on the inadequate provision of meals at NWIPC as the detained population has increased. Advocates who speak with detainees have shared that meals are provided late and, in some cases, detainees did not receive three meals per day. Detainees have made complaints about food and sanitation for many years, and we urge the facility to be responsive to the nutritional needs of individuals in its custody. Legal service providers with access to the facility have also shared that detainees waiting for video teleconferencing (VTC) hearings may miss meals. We urge the facility to ensure that all detained noncitizens, including those awaiting hearings or visits, are provided a minimum of three meals per day, as required by national detention standards (PBNDS 2011).

Access to Legal Counsel

Access to legal resources for noncitizens in immigration detention supports their ability to understand their rights and navigate immigration court, preventing backlogs in the immigration court system. Detained noncitizens at NWIPC face several concerning barriers to accessing legal counsel. Attorneys have faced significant delays to meet with their clients, making adequate legal counsel more difficult. This has become especially challenging when immigration courts advance noncitizens’ hearings by months without sufficient warning. At times, attorneys have had to wait at the facility for up to 6 hours to see their clients. This August, two of the seven attorney visitation rooms were being used as Virtual Attorney Visitation rooms (VAVs) and two were being used for video teleconferencing (VTC) hearings, leaving only three rooms available for attorneys to meet with their clients in person. We have also heard from advocates with access to the facility that, at times, only one visitation room was available and interviews for facility staff were being conducted in these attorney visitation rooms.

In the Fiscal Year 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act, Congress provided $10,000,000 for ICE to improve legal resources for noncitizen detainees, including to expand video attorney visitation. During an August 2025 site visit, NWIPC staff indicated that the facility recently implemented a new scheduling system to reserve attorney visitation rooms. We ask that the facility work with attorneys to resolve any issues that arise with the new system expeditiously so as not to delay access to legal counsel. We urge you to improve access to legal counsel by ensuring attorney visitation rooms remain available for attorneys to meet with their clients.

Given these concerns, we request answers to the following questions by January 16, 2026:

What is the maximum capacity of NWIPC, as determined by the fire marshal? As of November 1, 2025, how many individuals were detained at the facility?

How many staff were employed by NWIPC on January 20, 2025? Of this cohort, how many were trained and certified medical services providers who routinely provided direct medical services?

As of November 1, 2025, how many staff were employed by NWIPC? Of this cohort, how many were trained and certified medical services providers who routinely provide direct medical services?

As of November 1, 2025, how many pregnant women were detained at NWIPC? How often have these women requested, and how often have they received, prenatal care appointments with a specialist?

How many days in the last six months has the facility not provided three meals each day to every noncitizen in its custody?

Why did the facility not provide three meals each day to every noncitizen?

For each day, for how many noncitizens were three meals not provided?

What is the current status of the Legal Orientation Program (LOP) at NWIPC? Are noncitizens able to access LOP daily? What are the hours of availability each day? Outside of hours, are there any other restrictions on daily LOP access, and if so, what are they and why are they in place?

How many attorney visitation rooms are currently available for in-person attorney meetings? How many attorney visitation rooms are currently available for virtual attorney meetings?

In the last six months, have the attorney visitation rooms been used for a purpose other than attorney-client meetings (in-person or virtual) or video teleconferencing (VTC) hearings?

When were the most recent facility visits by the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Inspector General, DHS Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO), the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and ICE oversight personnel (whether the Office of Professional Responsibility or otherwise)? What, if any, recommendations were made after each visit? What progress has been made to implement such recommendations?

OIDO issued a report in November 2024 following an inspection of NWIPC. While 11 of the recommendations have been addressed, one remains outstanding. What progress has been made on implementing the remaining recommendation?

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Please understand that we are paying close attention to the conditions at NWIPC—and your management of this facility.

We urge you to promptly review these concerns and take immediate steps to improve conditions and practices at NWIPC to comply with existing standards and laws and ensure that people in immigration detention are being treated with basic dignity and respect.

Violations of the law or any abuse of human rights will not go unnoticed or unchallenged.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-announces-he-will-not-seek-reelection,Newhouse Announces He Will Not Seek Reelection,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement announcing he will not run for reelection in 2026.

""I am announcing today that I will not seek reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives. Serving the Fourth District of Washington has been the honor of my life, and this decision comes with no reservations or remorse, only gratitude for the tremendous opportunity to have represented my home state in Congress.

After over 25 years of public service, including more than a decade in the House, I am grateful to the Washingtonians who put their faith in me, as well as the colleagues I have served with on both sides of the aisle.

Public service takes many forms. As I look forward to this new chapter and ways I can continue to serve my community and this great Nation, I do so with confidence that there are now qualified and serious people expressing interest in this office. Central Washington will have a strong, capable leader to whom I can pass the torch.

I thank my family for their steadfast love and support which allowed me this opportunity to serve. I am truly humbled by this uniquely American journey that took a farm boy from Sunnyside, Washington clear across the country to represent his friends and neighbors in the ‘other’ Washington. I will continue to serve my district with energy and enthusiasm until the end of my term.

God bless America and God bless the people of the Fourth District of Washington.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/randall-joins-wa-democratic-members-demanding-answers-ice-deteriorating,"Randall Joins WA Democratic Members in Demanding Answers from ICE on Deteriorating Conditions and Inadequate Food, Medical Care, and Access to Legal Counsel at NWIPC",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Full letter available HERE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06) joined Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), and members of the Washington state democratic congressional delegation in sending a letter to Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Todd Lyons, expressing grave concerns with conditions at the Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC) in Tacoma, Washington. In the letter, the members demand answers to a long list of questions regarding overcrowding and lack of access to medical services, food, and legal counsel for individuals detained at the facility. The population at NWIPC has ballooned over the past year under the Trump administration’s indiscriminate and cruel mass deportation campaign, nearing—and at times exceeding—the facility’s maximum capacity of 1,575.

“Our offices have received reports from local service providers and advocates that conditions and access to services at NWIPC have deteriorated in the last year as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has chosen to detain more individuals at the facility,” the Members wrote in their letter. “In June, detained individuals were reportedly transferred to Alaska—far away from their families and legal representatives—because NWIPC reached capacity. None of this is remotely acceptable—you and the entire Trump administration have a basic moral and legal obligation to the people who have been detained and are under your care.”

“It is well established at this point that this administration is not prioritizing detaining violent criminals, but instead is detaining mostly peaceful, law-abiding immigrants with no criminal record who work hard and contribute to our communities,” the lawmakers continued. “With this in mind, we urge ICE to release noncitizens who do not pose a threat to public safety and to ensure necessary staff levels at NWIPC to protect the safety and basic dignity of the people in its custody.”

Rep. Randall joined Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and U.S. Reps. Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10) in sending the letter.

In the letter, the Members raise concern over the lack of medical care for individuals detained at NWIPC and other ICE facilities, writing: “We are deeply concerned that the facility does not have sufficient medical staff and dedicated space to adequately provide medical care to the increased number of detained noncitizens. Additionally, we are incredibly concerned about challenges detainees face in accessing behavioral health care and other specialty care.”

Rep. Randall has consistently advocated for the humane treatment of detainees and has been conducting oversight of NWIPC throughout this year. In August, Rep. Randall attempted to visit the NW Tacoma Detention Center, when ICE officials illegally denied her entry.

Recently, Rep. Randall called attention to the violent assault of Wilmer Toledo-Martinez, condemning the officers who sicced an attack dog on Wilmer and called for his immediate release from ICE custody.

The lawmakers’ letter also draws attention to reports from advocates that at least three pregnant women detained at NWIPC over the past year have been unable to receive appropriate medical care. Advocates also shared that at least one pregnant woman was shackled during transportation, which violates agency policy and raises concerns that medical information, such as whether a woman is pregnant, is not being properly documented by the facility.

The Members continued by raising concerns over the inadequate provision of meals at NWIPC and difficulty that detained individuals have in accessing legal counsel, writing: “Attorneys have faced significant delays to meet with their clients, making adequate legal counsel more difficult. This has become especially challenging when immigration courts advance noncitizens’ hearings by months without sufficient warning. At times, attorneys have had to wait at the facility for up to 6 hours to see their clients.”

The letter concludes by requesting answers to a list of questions by January 16th regarding capacity and staffing levels at NWIPC, the provision of food and medical care, access to legal counsel, treatment of pregnant women, and recent facility visits. “Please understand that we are paying close attention to the conditions at NWIPC—and your management of this facility,” the Members wrote. “We urge you to promptly review these concerns and take immediate steps to improve conditions and practices at NWIPC to comply with existing standards and laws and ensure that people in immigration detention are being treated with basic dignity and respect. Violations of the law or any abuse of human rights will not go unnoticed or unchallenged.”

After a protracted legal battle over Washington state’s ability to enforce health and safety standards at NWIPC, a federal appeals court ruled in August that the state should be allowed to enforce such standards at the detention center, and that failure to comply could result in fines of up to $10,000 per violation.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/16/jayapal-massie-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-repeal-2001-aumf-end-forever-wars/,"Jayapal, Massie Lead Bipartisan Effort to Repeal 2001 AUMF, End Forever Wars",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Thomas Massie (KY-04) are leading a bipartisan group of lawmakers to fully repeal the 2001 Authorized Use of Military Force (AUMF). Notably, the 2001 AUMF is the only AUMF in American history that does not have a named enemy, geographic scope, a duration for which the authorization is active, or a list of specifically authorized operations.

“The United States has used the nebulous term ‘War on Terror’ to conduct military operations around the world for more than two decades. It is long overdue that we overhaul these broad authorities that enable the Executive Branch to conduct these operations with little to no oversight,” said Jayapal. “The American people do not want these forever wars. As the Trump Administration threatens military force in Nigeria and as they conduct strikes against alleged narcoterrorists, Congress must reassert our constitutional power to declare war to protect our servicemembers and our national security.”

“For almost a quarter of a century, this AUMF has been used to justify open-ended military operations across multiple countries, against groups and individuals that did not even exist in 2001 and were not connected to 9/11, without congressional authorization or oversight,” said Rep. Massie, “Too many American lives and too much American treasure has been expended on these endless foreign conflicts.”

In the decades since the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan in October 2001, the original action authorized by this AUMF, numerous presidential administrations have used it as justification for actions against more than half a dozen groups around the world, including “associated forces” and “successor entities” of al-Qaeda, even in instances where there are negligible or no ties to the actors that carried out the September 11th attacks.

While the ability to engage in counterterror operations is vital to U.S. national security interests, this AUMF is overly broad and abdicates Congress’ constitutional role to authorize hostilities. This authority must be updated to meet the current terror landscape and give clear guidance to the Administration on where hostilities can occur. With the House passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Congress is on track to repeal a 1991 AUMF that authorized the Gulf War and a 2002 AUMF that authorized the Iraq War. However, the legislation failed to address the larger 2001 AUMF.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Representatives James P. McGovern (MA-02), Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Greg Casar (TX-35), Eli Crane (AZ-02).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4076,Larsen Announces Commitment from USPS to Keep Glacier Post Office Open,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) assured his office that it would work to secure a new contract for local postal services and keep the Glacier Post Office open:

“After Glacier residents raised concerns that their post office could close and disrupt mail services, I pressed USPS for assurances to keep this critical post office open. I am glad that the Postal Service committed to keeping the Glacier Post Office open and working to finalize a new contract to continue local postal services.

“I will continue to work with local leaders to ensure that USPS follows through on this commitment so the approximately 300 people who call Glacier home can receive their medications, ballots, paychecks, bills and other necessities.”

On November 18, 2025, Rep. Larsen wrote to Postmaster General David Steiner on behalf of Glacier residents, requesting clarity about Glacier Post Office operations and assurances the Post Office would remain open. The full text of Rep. Larsen's November letter available here.

On December 5, 2025, USPS responded to Rep. Larsen and committed to working to keep the Glacier Post Office open. The full text of that response is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-adam-smith-condemns-bondi-beach-antisemitic-attack-and-brown,Congressman Adam Smith Condemns Bondi Beach Antisemitic Attack and Brown University Shooting,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,adamsmith,https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) today condemned two deadly shootings that occurred over the weekend, including the antisemitic terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, and the shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.

“Our hearts are with the victims, their families, and the communities affected by the tragic deadly shootings over the weekend. The antisemitic attack at a Hanukkah celebration near Bondi Beach was a deliberate act of hatred against Jewish families celebrating their faith, and it is a painful reminder that antisemitism remains a real and dangerous threat around the world. At the same time, the shooting at Brown University once again underscores the devastating toll of gun violence on our communities. No one should fear for their safety while celebrating a holiday or attending school. We must stand united against antisemitism, racism, and all forms of hatred, and continue working with urgency to protect our communities and prevent this kind of violence from happening again.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schriers-bipartisan-bill-improve-quality-and-nutrition-school,Congresswoman Schrier’s Bipartisan Bill To Improve the Quality and Nutrition of School Lunches Heads To the President’s Desk To Be Signed Into Law,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the United States House of Representatives voted to pass Congresswoman Kim Schrier’s, M.D. (WA-08), bipartisan legislation to improve the quality and nutrition of school lunches by allowing public schools to serve reduced-fat and whole milk. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act was unanimously passed by the Senate last month and now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

“As a pediatrician, I know how important a balanced and nutritious diet is for children’s health and development, and I’m thrilled that my bipartisan bill has passed the House and is heading to the president's desk,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “Ensuring that our children have access to a healthy diet is fundamental to their physical growth, academic performance, and overall well-being, and can set the foundation for lifelong healthy eating habits. Milk is a significant part of many children’s diets and contains essential nutrients that keep them full and healthy. This bill will improve children's nutrition by allowing schools to provide the types of milk most kids prefer to drink, and I’m eager to see this legislation signed into law.”

“I have worked for a decade to restore whole milk to our school cafeterias, which have been limiting healthy choices for students, but that changes today,” said Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture. “Whole milk is an essential building block for a well-rounded and balanced diet, and students should have the option to choose the milk they love. I am proud that my bill, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, passed the House today and now heads to President Trump’s desk for his signature.”

Whole milk has been prohibited in school lunches for over a decade due to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. That bill changed nutrition standards and mandated that flavored milk be fat-free and traditional milk be, at most, 1% fat. Congresswoman Schrier’s bill would amend the nutrition standards and allow schools to serve flavored and unflavored reduced-fat (2%) and whole milk.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is supported by Darigold, the National Milk Producers Federation, and the International Dairy Foods Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://strickland.house.gov/2025/12/15/strickland-military-life-insurance-bill-becomes-law/,Strickland Military Life Insurance Bill Becomes Law,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Marilyn Strickland,S001159,strickland.house.gov,strickland,https://strickland.house.gov/category/press_release/,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland’s (WA-10), Fairness for Servicemembers and Their Families Act of 2025, became law. The legislation ensures life insurance packages for servicemembers and veterans will account for changes in the economy. The Senate version of the bill was led by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX).

“Our servicemembers put their lives on the line for their country and we must protect the well-being of their families in the event of a tragedy,” said Strickland. “This new law makes it clear that our nation will always stand by our military families.”

“We need to make sure service members, veterans, and their families have the financial support they need and deserve,” said Senator Cornyn. “I’m grateful to President Trump for his unwavering support of our brave men and women in uniform and for signing this bill into law, which will help ensure the Veterans Affairs Department can offer competitive life insurance packages that keep pace with the current cost of living.”

The bill improves the financial safety net for veterans, servicemembers, and their families by helping to ensure coverage amounts for the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and the Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) account for changes in economic trends.

Originally introduced in 2023 by Strickland, Fairness for Servicemembers and Their Families passed the House in the 118th Congress. Strickland reintroduced the legislation during the 119th Congress with Keith Self (TX-03) and U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Angus King (I-ME). The bill then passed the Senate, before being signed into law by the President on Friday, December 12, 2025.

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4074,Larsen Releases Statement on Bondi Beach Shooting,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement on the shooting in Bondi Beach, Australia targeting a Hanukkah celebration:

""I am devastated for the people killed and injured in Bondi Beach and their loved ones. I stand with the Jewish community in Australia, the U.S. and around the world. Anti-semitism is a scourge that must end.""

###

Larsen Calls on Trump to Prioritize Opening Japanese Market Access to U.S. Potato Industry

March 11, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen Rejects Trump’s Reckless War; Supports U.S. Military

March 5, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen Reintroduces Bill to End Dark Money in Elections

March 5, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen Joins Leader Jeffries in Statement on Iran Strikes

February 28, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen Releases Statement on Tumbler Ridge Shooting

February 11, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/13/jayapal-joins-peoples-town-hall-in-republican-pa-district/,Jayapal Joins People’s Town Hall in Republican PA District,2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"SCRANTON, P.A. – Community members from across Northeastern Pennsylvania gathered in downtown Scranton on Saturday for the third stop of the Progress for the People town hall tour. The town hall featured Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Congressman Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), and Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02),, who joined local leaders, union members, and residents to expose how the Republican budget law is impacting Pennsylvania families, respond directly to constituents’ questions, and outline a people-centered vision for change. The event was organized by the Progressive Caucus Action Fund, Action Together NEPA, SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania, Pennsylvanians Together in Action, Pennsylvania Policy Center, Make the Road Action PA, Rural Organizing, Main Street Action, Affordable Pennsylvania, United Steelworkers, For Our Future PA Action Fund, and Working Families Power.

Highlighting the importance of showing up – especially when Republicans refuse to do so, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) said, “I was so proud to join my colleagues today in Scranton, PA to talk to people about the issues that they are dealing with every single day. The American people are hurting under Trump and Republicans – from rising costs on everything from health care to electric bills, to immigration attacks on our neighbors and loved ones. Democrats are showing up in every corner of this country and if Republicans refuse to come out and hear from their constituents, we will.”

Reflecting on what he heard directly from Scranton residents, Congressman Brendan Boyle (PA-02) said, “Today was proof positive that families in Scranton, throughout Pennsylvania, and across the country, are sick and tired of being told their struggles are not real and that the cost of living crisis is somehow a con. The real con was Donald Trump promising to lower prices on day one. Trump’s tax bill gave big tax breaks to billionaires and was paid for by the largest cuts to health care in American history. It’s a disgrace and the hardworking people of Pennsylvania will suffer as a result. It was a privilege to hear directly from the people of Scranton about the challenges they face due to Trump and his policies.” Building on those concerns, Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) said, “I was glad to join my Progressive Caucus colleagues in Scranton to discuss the devastating impacts of the Big ‘Beautiful’ Bill on hardworking Pennsylvania families. Americans deserve to hear directly from their elected officials – and they deserve to hear the truth. Because of the President’s disastrous tariff policies, prices for household essentials like meat and bananas are rising. Electricity costs across the Commonwealth are up by 15%, and more than 150,000 Pennsylvanians stand to lose their healthcare because they can no longer afford their monthly premiums. While Republicans like Rep. Bresnahan continue to hide from their constituents, Democrats will continue fighting for every family – in every community – across our country.”

Placing the local fallout in a broader national context, Congressman Jim McGovern (MA-02) said, “What I heard today in Scranton is what people all across the country are saying: those at the very top are doing better than ever, while everyone else is falling further behind. Trump and his Republican lapdogs like Representative Rob Bresnahan—who flies to work in a private helicopter—are building an A+ economy for greedy corporations and billionaires while the rest of America works more and more for less and less. Their tariffs—and their cruel cuts to programs that people rely on—are ruining people’s lives and livelihoods. While Republicans run and hide from their record, Democrats will keep showing up, fighting back, and demanding an economic system that works for everyone.”

The event was moderated by Anthony Gratter, Regional Organizer with Affordable Pennsylvania, and also featured remarks from Krysten Xanthis, a Pennsylvania home health care aide and member of SEIU Healthcare PA, who shared how federal policy decisions are affecting workers on the front lines of care. Audience questions focused on rising health care costs, empowering workers, the student loan debt crisis, corporate corruption, the future of AI, and the corrosive influence of money in politics.

Representatives Jayapal, McGovern, Dean, and Boyle hear from local resident about issues affecting Scranton. (Photo credit: Matt Stanley)

Local organizers stressed what is at stake for families across Northeastern Pennsylvania – particularly in districts where Republican representatives have avoided accountability.

“Representative Rob Bresnahan keeps voting for policies that kick his constituents off their healthcare and make it harder to afford their groceries — but those constituents are starting to see through his “good guy” act. He promised not to vote to cut Medicaid, then voted to do just that multiple times. He claims he won’t do anything to make it harder for his constituents to feed their families, then he voted to slash SNAP payments,” said Alisha Hoffman-Mirilovich, Executive Director of Action Together NEPA. “He wants residents of the district to think he’s just like them, yet he’s out trading millions in stocks and buying undisclosed helicopters while his working folks are struggling to get by. The 8th district deserves better, and Action Together NEPA will keep holding him accountable and fighting for working families across our region.”

Echoing that message, Dwayne Heisler, Campaign Director for Pennsylvanians Together in Action said, “Pennsylvania families are being squeezed while Republicans hand out tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. Their budget law makes life more expensive—but communities across this state are pushing back. We’re fighting for a government that lowers costs, protects care, and finally puts people before corporations.”

Emphasizing that communities outside major cities will also bear the brunt of the damage Megan Kocher, Field Manager at RuralOrganizing.org said, “Trump and Congressional Republicans like Rob Bresnahan who voted for the big ugly bill are waging a war against rural Pennsylvanians. Trump sold out his base and Bresnahan sold out his constituents, stealing a trillion dollars in food and medicine from families to hand out a trillion dollars in tax cuts to billionaires. Rural Pennsylvanians disproportionately rely on SNAP and Medicaid and we are disproportionately the ones who will go hungry and get sick, all for the benefit of billionaires who do not live in Scranton or NEPA. The Big Ugly Bill is the largest transfer of wealth from the poor to the rich, but it’s also the largest transfer of wealth from rural to urban, yet Congressman Rob Bresnahan is nowhere to be found.”

Calling for concrete action Rachele Fortier, Executive Director of Affordable Pennsylvania added, “Across Pennsylvania, families are struggling to keep up with rising costs. We deserve representatives in Congress who will fight to make life more affordable for us. But instead, Reps. Ryan Mackenzie, Rob Bresnahan and Scott Perry have prioritized bigger tax breaks for billionaires at the expense of their constituents. It’s time for these members to step up and take meaningful action to lower costs for Pennsylvania families by signing the three year discharge petition to extend health care tax credits, standing up to tariffs, and restoring funding for SNAP and Medicare which they voted to gut this summer.”

“Working class families across Pennsylvania are struggling to pay their monthly bills, afford healthcare, and support their families. Meanwhile, Rob Bresnahan continues to hand out further tax breaks to billionaires, ignoring and deepening the affordability crisis his constituents are facing. Workers have a right to the wealth they create for our commonwealth – it’s far past time that our elected officials start making legislative decisions that reflect this truth,” said Aya Mohamed, Political Director, Make the Road Action in Pennsylvania. PJ Jahn, a For Our Future volunteer who attended the event said, “It is a real shame that Congressman Bresnahan was not able to come here to share his thoughts on the affordability crisis. The affordability crisis impacts not only large counties but small as well where we are seeing double digit increases in grocery, rent and utilities. I wanted to thank the congressmembers that did show up and provide solutions for how we can move forward as a country.”

“There is so much fear about where our country is going, but today was a great reminder that there’s hope to be found in one another,” said Catherine Rowland, PCAF’s Director of Government Affairs & Access. The Scranton town hall follows two previous stops with hundreds of community members in both Warren, Michigan and Glens Falls, New York who gathered with local and national leaders. Additional town halls are being planned across the country as communities demand answers from elected officials and fight for policies that put people first.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/12/jayapal-statement-on-release-of-kilmar-abrego-garcia/,Jayapal Statement on Release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Security, Integrity, and Enforcement, released a statement following the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody:

“This is a huge step towards justice in the case of Mr. Abrego Garcia, someone who should have never been detained in the first place. He has endured a months-long smear campaign against him by this administration after being kidnapped in front of his young child in March and wrongfully deported. He deserves to be home with his family, not in an ICE facility.

“Between being unlawfully sent to one of the world’s most notorious gulags in El Salvador, where he was tortured, to returning home, just to face threats of being shipped to another country, and eventually ending up in ICE custody, our government has failed Mr. Abrego Garcia and his family. We are grateful to the federal judges who have refused to give up on due process, and the constitutional protections Mr. Abrego Garcia deserves.

“It should never have come to this, but I am so thrilled that he will finally be able to return home and be with his loved ones. And we will continue to fight for justice for him and for the thousands of immigrants detained in this country.”

Kilmar Abrego Garcia was kidnapped on March 15, 2025, and was deported through an “administrative error,” as admitted originally by the Trump administration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/randall-joins-wa-delegation-letter-requesting-expedited-emergency-declaration,"Randall Joins WA Delegation in Letter Requesting Expedited Emergency Declaration for Devastating Storms, Atmospheric Rivers Hitting Washington State",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. House Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06) , joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), and the entire Washington state Congressional delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson’s request last night for an expedited Emergency Declaration for the devastating storms and severe flooding hitting Washington state this week.

The latest flood hazard outlook from the National Weather Service forecasts “catastrophic” river flooding in parts of Northwest Washington, and “considerable flooding” in a wide stretch of land from Bellingham to south of Olympia. State authorities have ordered “GO NOW” evacuations for the entire 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River valley. On Wednesday, Governor Ferguson said an estimated 100,000 Washingtonians could face evacuation orders, and declared a statewide emergency alongside his request for a federal Emergency Declaration. An Emergency Declaration would supplement state, local, and Tribal responders and allow the federal government to assist with debris removal and emergency protective measures.

“We write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025 request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible,” the delegation wrote. “This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.”

Rep. Randall (D, WA-06) joined Sens. Patty Murray (D-WA), and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), in addition to Reps. Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10) in sending the letter.

“On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record,” the Members continued.

“We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible,” Murray and the delegation concluded. “An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures.”

The full letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Mr. President:

As members of the Washington state delegation, we write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025 request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible.

This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.

On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record.

We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible.

An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures. We appreciate your prompt attention to this request.

Sincerely,",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/randall-wittman-pass-bipartisan-anchor-military-families-act-house-ndaa,"Randall, Wittman Pass Bipartisan ANCHOR for Military Families Act in House NDAA",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2026 by a vote of 312-112. The bipartisan ANCHOR for Military Families Act, introduced by U.S. Representatives Emily Randall (D, WA-06) and Rob Wittman (R, VA-01) was included in the final NDAA package.

“We have a responsibility to support our military families through every phase of their service, including relocation. In the Washington State Senate, I championed policies that helped servicemembers connect with essential resources. The bipartisan ANCHOR for Military Families Act builds on that model, offering vital relocation support to states across the country to ensure military families have timely access to the tools they need for a smooth transition. I am grateful to Rep. Wittman for being a partner in this effort.”

“Our military families deserve the best, and the ANCHOR Act will help ease many of the burdens that come with frequent relocation,” said Rep. Wittman. “The ANCHOR Act ensures that military families have access to key information regarding relocation resources, educational rights, school enrollment support, housing assistance, and more — making those transitions easier. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to support our nation’s military families.”

The Assuring Navigation of Compact Help for Ongoing Relocation (ANCHOR) for Military Families Act will ensure military families are informed of their educational rights, school enrollment support, and other key relocation resources—such as housing assistance, spouse employment support, and services through the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)—under the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3) during Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves.

The ANCHOR for Military Families Act would:

Require DoD to provide timely and accessible relocation information to service members and their families at least 45 days prior to a PCS move;

Add MIC3-related education support to statutorily required relocation services;

Provide legal and financial counseling;

Ensure the provision of mental health and well-being services; and

Require DoD to provide annual briefings to Congress for three years to track implementation and satisfaction.

The ANCHOR for Military Families Act has been endorsed by Blue Star Families, Partners in PROMISE, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, Secure Families Initiatives, and the Association of Washington School Principals.

“The ANCHOR for Military Families Act is a critical step forward. School transitions can be one of the most challenging aspects of military life, and this provision empowers families with the knowledge they need to advocate for their children’s education,” said Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families. “Blue Star Families applauds Congresswoman Emily Randall for this effort to bring greater clarity and support to those who serve.”

""PCS transitions often interrupt critical special education services for military children,” said Michelle Norman, Executive Director and Founder of Partners in PROMISE. “We are grateful to Representative Randall, Representative Wittman, and the Senate sponsors for championing the ANCHOR Act, which will help address these gaps by requiring that military families receive key PCS and special education information before a move begins. Because the statute is broad, implementation must meaningfully include military families with lived experience, data-driven partners, and targeted, measurable outcomes. We look forward to working alongside the Department to ensure the final process delivers what Congress intended.”

""Secure Families Initiative is proud to support the ANCHOR Act,"" said Brandi Jones M.Ed., Organizing Director and Founder of the PCS Safety Campaign at Secure Families Initiative. ""Military service members and their families are our nation’s most valued resource, bravely embracing a transient lifestyle in service to our country. This legislation ensures they receive clear, timely information during PCS briefings and through the Relocation Assistance Program, helping families navigate school transitions with confidence. We believe military families deserve a plain-language briefing before reporting — keeping children safe and families informed.""

“The Association of Washington School Principals supports the ANCHOR for Military Families Act. This bill would ensure that members of the armed forces and their families would be provided more detailed information related to education, including school transition assistance and special education services. As a state with one of the largest active-duty populations, many of our schools are accustomed to supporting military families and their children and we support a more coordinated process across our country. By prioritizing school transitions alongside housing and healthcare, the ANCHOR for Military Families Act empowers families and schools to work together more effectively, minimizing disruptions and promoting student success,” said the Association of Washington School Principals.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4234,"WA Delegation Urges Expedited Emergency Declaration for Devastating Storms, Flooding Hitting State",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01), along with Senators Patty Murray (WA), Maria Cantwell (WA), and Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (WA-05), Emily Randall (WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Adam Smith (WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) urged President Donald Trump to approve an expedited Emergency Declaration request for the devastating storms and severe flooding hitting Washington this week.

The latest National Weather Service outlook forecasts “catastrophic” river flooding in parts of Northwest Washington, and “considerable flooding” in a wide stretch of land from Bellingham to south of Olympia. State authorities have ordered “GO NOW” evacuations for the entire 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River valley. On Wednesday, Governor Ferguson said an estimated 100,000 Washingtonians could face evacuation orders, and declared a statewide emergency alongside his request for a federal Emergency Declaration. An Emergency Declaration would supplement state, local, and Tribal responders and allow the federal government to assist with debris removal and emergency protective measures.

“We write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025, request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible,” the delegation wrote in a letter. “This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.”

“On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record,” they continued.

“We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible,” the letter says. “An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/11/jayapal-helps-secure-4-4-million-for-recycling-program-for-the-city-of-shoreline/,Jayapal Helps Secure $4.4 Million for Recycling Program for the City of Shoreline,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) is announcing $4,448,848 in grant funding for the City of Shoreline’s establishment of the Shoreline Reuse Center, through the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIR) program.

“This funding will help the City of Shoreline to move towards zero waste, while creating a space for community programming and sustainability education. It is not only a space to ensure greater recycling in our community, but also to promote a culture of reuse and less waste,” said Jayapal. “I am proud to have supported this project, which is another step toward strengthening our region’s climate resilience for years to come.”

“We are honored that Shoreline’s proposal was selected in such a competitive national grant process. The Shoreline Reuse Center will empower our community to reduce waste, extend the life of everyday goods, and build on our culture of reuse and repair,” said Shoreline Mayor Chris Roberts. “We’re proud to be leading the way in creating innovative solutions that benefit both our environment and our residents. We are grateful for Representative Jayapal’s help in making this grant a reality for Shoreline.”

The Shoreline Reuse Center will serve as a central hub for collecting, repurposing, and recycling waste from local businesses and residents. The project will also include building facilities for storing and selling salvaged materials, expanding the existing community tool library and bike shop, and providing space for local reuse and repair organizations. These organizations will also be able to offer additional services and educational programs aimed at promoting waste reduction and sustainability. The location will also feature a community bike and repair shop.

Shoreline’s Reuse Center is a significant investment that will enhance the region’s climate resilience. The Reuse Center will divert over 700 tons of municipal waste and construction materials. It will also advance Shoreline’s Climate Action Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent. The Center will support regional efforts to achieve zero waste of economically valuable resources by 2030.

The EPA selected 17 local governments for grants totaling $58 million for SWIR funding, including the Shoreline Reuse Center.

Jayapal’s letter of support can be read here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/11/jayapal-norcross-omar-introduce-legislation-to-protect-app-based-workers/,"Jayapal, Norcross, Omar Introduce Legislation to Protect App-Based Workers",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) are introducing legislation to promote transparency and accountability for app-based workers. The Empowering App-Based Workers Act would put guardrails on digital labor platforms, including Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Amazon, to ensure that automated decisions do not lead to discrimination and price-gouging, and provide transparency to workers on how their data is used.

“App-based workers work long hours, often with no consistency or predictability of how much they will make,” said Jayapal. “They are at the whim of algorithms that make automated decisions about who gets to work, and where, and when. Workers and consumers deserve a better system, where workers are protected, employment laws are followed, and where consumers have a transparent price.”

“The Empowering App-Based Workers Act is a long-overdue step toward fairness and transparency for the millions of rideshare drivers and delivery app workers who keep our economy running,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “By guaranteeing transparent payment information and higher wages, these workers will finally receive a fair day’s pay for a hard day’s work. App-based workers deserve a good-paying job where they are treated with dignity, compensated fairly, and protected from exploitation.”

“Gig workers like Uber and Lyft drivers in my home state of Minnesota deserve a fair share of the wealth they create. App-based corporations have hidden behind AI algorithms and predatory take rates while drivers’ pay shrinks and executive profits soar,” said Rep. Omar. “The Empowering App-Based Workers Act will pull back the curtain on how these companies use data, set wages, and make decisions that shape people’s livelihoods. Gig workers should be part of a transparent system that values their labor.”

In 2024, Uber and Lyft both regularly paid drivers wages less than minimum wage, while at the same time increasing costs paid by consumers. These corporations’ ‘take rates’, or the percentage of a ride-fare that they keep, is often around 40 percent, but can be as high as 70 percent on individual rides.

The Empowering App-Based Workers Act would:

Require detailed weekly pay statements and itemized receipts for workers;

Require disclosure of electronic monitoring systems and how those are used to make automated decisions regarding work assignments;

Ensure that ride-hail drivers receive at least 75 percent of the total amount paid by a consumer for each transaction; and

Prohibit app-based platforms from violating equal pay for equal work by offering or paying different amounts to workers performing substantially similar or comparable work.

“We’re excited to see Representatives Jayapal, Norcross, and Omar listening to app-based workers and introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act in the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Rebecca Dixon, president and CEO of the National Employment Law Project (NELP). “Corporations that use hidden algorithms to determine app-based workers’ pay, job assignments, and discipline must be held accountable. This bill will give workers the transparency they have been demanding for years and will help move us toward a good-jobs economy where all workers are treated fairly.”

The legislation is also sponsored by Dan Goldman (NY-10), Summer Lee (PA-12), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mark Takano (CA-39), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/11/wa-delegation-requests-expedited-emergency-declaration-for-devastating-storms-atmospheric-rivers-hitting-washington-state/,"WA Delegation Requests Expedited Emergency Declaration for Devastating Storms, Atmospheric Rivers Hitting Washington State",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, the entire Washington state Congressional delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson’s request last night for an expedited Emergency Declaration for the devastating storms and severe flooding hitting Washington state this week.

The latest flood hazard outlook from the National Weather Service forecasts “catastrophic” river flooding in parts of Northwest Washington, and “considerable flooding” in a wide stretch of land from Bellingham to south of Olympia. State authorities have ordered “GO NOW” evacuations for the entire 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River valley. On Wednesday, Governor Ferguson said an estimated 100,000 Washingtonians could face evacuation orders, and declared a statewide emergency alongside his request for a federal Emergency Declaration. An Emergency Declaration would supplement state, local, and Tribal responders and allow the federal government to assist with debris removal and emergency protective measures.

“We write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025 request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible,” the members of the delegation wrote. “This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.”

The letter to President Trump was joined by Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10).

“On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record,” the Members continued.

“We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible,” the delegation concluded. “An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures.”

The full letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Mr. President:

As members of the Washington state delegation, we write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025 request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible.

This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.

On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record.

We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible.

An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures. We appreciate your prompt attention to this request.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4072,Washington Delegation Demands Answers on BP Pipeline Leak,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Kim Schrier, MD (WA-08), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Emily Randall (WA-06), Adam Smith (WA-09), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) called on BP to answer questions surrounding the November leak of the Olympic Pipeline in Snohomish County.

The leak released a reported 2,300 gallons of fuel into Snohomish County waterways and soil, and temporarily cut off fuel delivery to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for nearly two weeks, causing flight disruptions.

“While we are relieved that the pipeline is now operational, this malfunction jeopardized airline operations, farmlands, water safety, wildlife habitat, and public health. Further, we are concerned because this spill is part of a decades-long history of spills and ruptures in the Olympic Pipeline,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to BP North America CEO Murray Auchincloss. BP has agreed to brief the lawmakers on the leak and its impact on the region. The lawmakers outlined several outstanding questions they would like addressed and answered in writing by January 8, 2026:

1. What volume of refined products did the November 11, 2025 leak release?

2. What efforts are BP North America and the Olympic Pipeline undertaking to determine the full extent of refined products that may have leaked into surrounding water sources or soil?

3. Provide an outline of BP’s plan to remediate any contamination, including the timeline for these activities and an assessment of local businesses or residences impacted.

4. Do you commit to timely public disclosure of all spill data, such as volume, location, environmental sampling results, and remediation efforts, for review by public and relevant state and local agencies? If so, what is your projected timeline for this information disclosure?

5. Provide a complete list of spills and volume spilled since November 25, 2005 from any pipelines owned by BP in Washington State.

6. What corrective measures will BP North America and the Olympic Pipeline take to reduce future spill risk?

7. Do you commit to fully cooperating with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission to determine the cause of the leak and make any necessary corrective actions?

8. Do you commit to fully cooperating with the Washington Department of Ecology for assessment of the extent of the spill as well as all clean-up operations?

9. The Washington Department of Ecology issued a $3.8 million fine for the 2023 Olympic Pipeline leak in Conway, WA. Following that leak, how did BP update its monitoring and maintenance practices?

10. Since the 2023 leak in Conway, has BP found any other leaks along the Olympic pipeline? Is there a connection between the 2023 leak in Conway, or any subsequent leaks, and this one?

11. Governor Ferguson’s emergency declaration following the shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline highlights the need to develop further emergency plans to service airline operation needs in the event of future fuel incidents. Do you commit to working with the state and relevant transit authorities to address emergency planning needs?

“Given the history of the Olympic Pipeline, Washington residents must have confidence that BP is treating this most recent leak with all due seriousness. The Olympic Pipeline is an essential piece of infrastructure to our region. We hope you share our goal of ensuring that it is also reliable and secure for the sake of the Pacific Northwest’s residents and environment,” the lawmakers continued.

There have already been three significant incidents with the pipeline since 2023, and this leak could be the fourth if it meets federal criteria. This includes the December 2023 leak near Conway for which BP was recently fined $3.8 million by Washington state.

A copy of the letter can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4073,"WA Delegation Requests Expedited Emergency Declaration for Devastating Storms, Atmospheric Rivers Hitting WA",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Washington state’s entire Congressional delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to approve Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson’s request last night for an expedited Emergency Declaration for the devastating storms and severe flooding hitting Washington state this week.

The latest flood hazard outlook from the National Weather Service forecasts “catastrophic” river flooding in parts of Northwest Washington, and “considerable flooding” in a wide stretch of land from Bellingham to south of Olympia. State authorities have ordered “GO NOW” evacuations for the entire 100-year floodplain of the Skagit River valley. On Wednesday, Governor Ferguson said an estimated 100,000 Washingtonians could face evacuation orders, and declared a statewide emergency alongside his request for a federal Emergency Declaration. An Emergency Declaration would supplement state, local, and Tribal responders and allow the federal government to assist with debris removal and emergency protective measures.

“We write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025 request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible,” the delegation wrote. “This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.”

The letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03), Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04), Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Adam Smith (D, WA-09), Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10) and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA).

“On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record,” the Members continued.

“We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible,” the delegation concluded. “An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures.”

The full letter is available HERE and below:

Dear Mr. President:

As members of the Washington state delegation, we write in support of Washington state’s December 10, 2025 request for an expedited Emergency Declaration due to the devastating extreme rainfall, high winds, heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, and major coastal, river, and localized flooding caused by an extreme atmospheric river and winter weather event that struck the state beginning on December 2, 2025. We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible.

This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts.

On the Cowlitz River, water has overtopped Highway 12, isolating the communities of Randle and Packwood. Most major routes through the Cascade Mountains connecting western Washington to the rest of the state have been closed or seen landslides and other severe impacts. In Skagit County alone, local government officials expect to issue evacuation orders for over 75,000 residents, over half of the county’s total population. The county is bracing for significant loss of life, infrastructure, and property, with a full recovery expected to take years or even decades. Some areas on the Skagit River may see floodwaters rise five feet higher than the existing record.

We are grateful to the local, state, Tribal, and federal officials who have quickly mobilized to respond to this storm. Our first responders and emergency personnel are working around the clock and in dangerous conditions to protect lives, provide essential services, and keep our communities safe. It is essential that the federal government steps in to provide the resources necessary to allow our state to respond to this disaster and begin the road to recovery as soon as possible.

An expedited Emergency Declaration is critical to help with debris removal and emergency protection measures. We appreciate your prompt attention to this request.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-wa-delegation-request-emergency-declaration-amid-severe-storms,"Newhouse, WA Delegation Request Emergency Declaration Amid Severe Storms and Flooding",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) joined his colleagues from the Washington State Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging approval of the State of Washington's request for an expedited Emergency Declaration amid dangerous storms and flooding across the state.

""This storm is threatening lives, property, and livestock in every corner of Washington. The storm has had severe and widespread impacts on our transportation system, with major highways closed due to mudslides and communities cut off by rising water. The National Weather Service forecasts that more than a dozen Washington rivers will see major flooding in the coming days, leading to further and worsening impacts,"" the Delegation wrote. ""We urge you to approve this request for assistance as quickly as possible.""

The latest flood hazard outlook from the National Weather Service forecasts ""catastrophic"" river flooding in parts of Northwest Washington, ""considerable flooding"" in a wide stretch of land from Bellingham to south of Olympia, and ""moderate"" flooding along the Yakima River in Yakima and Benton Counties.

On Wednesday, December 10, Rep. Newhouse received an update from the National Weather Service and the Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District. The Congressman and his district staff remain engaged with stakeholders, constituents, and the Trump Administration on the ongoing flooding.

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://baumgartner.house.gov/media/press-releases/baumgartner-issues-statement-final-passage-fy26-ndaa,Baumgartner Issues Statement on Final Passage of FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Michael Baumgartner,B001322,baumgartner.house.gov,baumgartner,https://baumgartner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Michael Baumgartner (WA-05) issued the following statement upon the passage of the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“The passage of the NDAA is first and foremost about keeping faith with the men and women who wear the uniform and the families who stand behind them,” said Congressman Baumgartner. “It gives our troops in Eastern Washington a much-needed pay raise, safer barracks to sleep in, better homes for their families, and stronger hospitals and clinics when they need care. It also takes on the drugs flowing into our communities, stands shoulder to shoulder with our allies around the globe, and makes sure they can count on America when it matters most. Supporting this bill was an easy choice, because it honors the sacrifice of those who serve, keeps them safer on and off the battlefield, and reflects the values we share as a nation.”

The passage of the FY26 NDAA authorizes $900.6 billion for the following national defense priorities including but not limited to:

Improves the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and increased benefits for military families;

Authorizes $1 billion to fight drug trafficking;

Authorizes over $1.5 billion for new construction of barracks and family housing;

Authorizes over $335 million to renovate military hospitals and build new medical facilities;

Streamlines and improves the international arms sales process to ensure that the United States remains the partner of choice for our allies;

Advances the President’s “Peace Through Strength” initiative by authorizing $400 million for Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and by fully funding the U.S. commitment to defend Israel through joint U.S.-Israel cooperative missile defense programs; and

Authorizes funds to construct the Golden Dome

Background:

The NDAA passed the House on September 10, 2025, and the Senate passed their version on October 10, 2025. The House and Senate Armed Services Committees reached bipartisan, bicameral agreements to get the final version on the House Floor, which passed the House by a 312-112 vote.

The final NDAA bill must now pass the Senate before it can go to the President to be signed into law.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4231,Washington Delegation Demands Answers on BP Pipeline Leak,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Kim Schrier, MD (WA-08), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Emily Randall (WA-06), Adam Smith (WA-09), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) called on BP to answer questions surrounding the November leak of the Olympic Pipeline in Snohomish County.

The leak released a reported 2,300 gallons of fuel into Snohomish County waterways and soil, and temporarily cut off fuel delivery to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for nearly two weeks, causing flight disruptions.

“While we are relieved that the pipeline is now operational, this malfunction jeopardized airline operations, farmlands, water safety, wildlife habitat, and public health. Further, we are concerned because this spill is part of a decades-long history of spills and ruptures in the Olympic Pipeline,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to BP North America CEO Murray Auchincloss.

BP has agreed to brief the lawmakers on the leak and its impact on the region. The lawmakers outlined several outstanding questions they would like addressed and answered in writing by January 8, 2026:

1. What volume of refined products did the November 11, 2025 leak release?

2. What efforts are BP North America and the Olympic Pipeline undertaking to determine the full extent of refined products that may have leaked into surrounding water sources or soil?

3. Provide an outline of BP’s plan to remediate any contamination, including the timeline for these activities and an assessment of local businesses or residences impacted.

4. Do you commit to timely public disclosure of all spill data, such as volume, location, environmental sampling results, and remediation efforts, for review by public and relevant state and local agencies? If so, what is your projected timeline for this information disclosure?

5. Provide a complete list of spills and volume spilled since November 25, 2005 from any pipelines owned by BP in Washington State.

6. What corrective measures will BP North America and the Olympic Pipeline take to reduce future spill risk?

7. Do you commit to fully cooperating with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission to determine the cause of the leak and make any necessary corrective actions?

8. Do you commit to fully cooperating with the Washington Department of Ecology for assessment of the extent of the spill as well as all clean-up operations?

9. The Washington Department of Ecology issued a $3.8 million fine for the 2023 Olympic Pipeline leak in Conway, WA. Following that leak, how did BP update its monitoring and maintenance practices?

10. Since the 2023 leak in Conway, has BP found any other leaks along the Olympic pipeline? Is there a connection between the 2023 leak in Conway, or any subsequent leaks, and this one?

11. Governor Ferguson’s emergency declaration following the shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline highlights the need to develop further emergency plans to service airline operation needs in the event of future fuel incidents. Do you commit to working with the state and relevant transit authorities to address emergency planning needs?

“Given the history of the Olympic Pipeline, Washington residents must have confidence that BP is treating this most recent leak with all due seriousness. The Olympic Pipeline is an essential piece of infrastructure to our region. We hope you share our goal of ensuring that it is also reliable and secure for the sake of the Pacific Northwest’s residents and environment,” the lawmakers continued.

There have already been three significant incidents with the pipeline since 2023, and this leak could be the fourth if it meets federal criteria. This includes the December 2023 leak near Conway for which BP was recently fined $3.8 million by Washington state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4232,"Trump’s Tariffs Cause Decline in Canadian Tourism and Commerce, Hurting WA Businesses",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, the Joint Economic Committee Democrats released a new report showing how declining Canadian tourism is harming American businesses in Washington. The decline in tourism comes as President Trump has proposed annexing Canada, imposed several rounds of tariffs on Canadian goods paid for by Americans, and repeatedly broken off trade talks. The report combines new data on tourism declines with new testimonials from businesses in Washington.

“Washington’s economy is particularly vulnerable to Trump’s trade war. 4-in-10 of our jobs are tied to trade, and our supply chains are deeply linked with Canada,” said DelBene. “This economic uncertainty, along with demeaning comments made about one of our closest trading partners, has led to a drastic reduction in the number of Canadian tourists visiting Washington, and businesses across our state are feeling the downturn.”

From January to October 2025, the report found that the number of passenger vehicles crossing the Washington-Canada border declined by more than 24 percent compared to the same period in 2024. Washingtonian businesses are also reporting fewer tourists, more hotel vacancies, and lower sales.

“Since March of this year, we have not only seen Canadian traffic drop drastically, but we have also seen a drop in our number of attendees at our festival this year in late September,” said Kevin Coleman, Executive Director of SeaFeast in Bellingham. “We knew that after March, we could not rely on our Canadian business because of fear at the border and lack of understanding of what is happening with tariffs and Canada drawing a strong line of promoting Canada first.”

“I didn’t want to just suddenly close on our customers without giving them a heads-up … We are really reliant on the Canadian traffic to come down here,” said Sasha Lysikov, owner of Minted Method in Bellingham.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/10/jayapal-statement-on-vote-against-massive-pentagon-budget/,Jayapal Statement on Vote Against Massive Pentagon Budget,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement after voting against the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“As families across this country struggle to keep food on the table and are facing health care premiums that will be doubling or even tripling in the coming days, Republicans are showing clearly where their priorities lie. Today, the Republican NDAA handed more than $890 billion to the Pentagon, more than $8 billion over Trump’s original exorbitant funding request.

“A fraction of this money would be enough to extend health care subsidies for a decade, restore Medicaid funding for 17 million Americans, end homelessness, pay for universal pre-k, or fund anti-poverty programs like the enhanced Child Tax Credit — things that would actually ease the cost-of-living crisis that Americans are facing.

“The Pentagon has never successfully passed an audit, yet we continue to pump more into this unaccountable agency. This is as Trump has deployed National Guard members to our cities, wasting millions of dollars, politicizing our servicemembers, and militarizing our communities.

“I do support the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorized Uses of Military Force (AUMF) legislation in this bill that will help put an end to forever wars. However, I cannot support legislation that pumps $890 billion into the Pentagon while leaving the American people behind on health care, education, and infrastructure. I voted no.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4070,"Larsen, Elfreth Secure AI Provisions in Defense Policy Bill",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representatives Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) announced legislation they co-led, the AI Training for National Security Act, has been included in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA).

The AI Training for National Security Act requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to include information on the unique cybersecurity challenges created by artificial intelligence in its annual cybersecurity training for servicemembers and civilian employees.

“Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the national security threat landscape,” said Larsen, who previously served on the Armed Services Committee for 22 years. “This legislation ensures that DoD meets this moment and prepares our armed forces for today’s challenges and opportunities.”

“The rapid development of AI threatens to outpace our ability to counter cyber threats to our nation’s security,” said Rep. Elfreth. “Our national security leaders – many of whom fight these global threats from CYBERCOMM headquarters at Fort Meade here in Maryland – must maintain the education and expertise to utilize rapidly developing technologies. I’m grateful to work with Representative Larsen to develop an AI strategy for our servicemembers.”

The House of Representatives will vote on the FY26 NDAA later today.

The full text of the AI Training for National Security Act is available HERE.

Larsen Champions AI Education for Servicemembers

The AI Training for National Security Act builds on Larsen's work to develop an AI education strategy for servicemembers.

In 2024, three provisions from Larsen’s Next Generation Military Education Act were included in the FY25 NDAA and became law. These provisions require:

- The DoD’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer to provide an online AI education course;

- All military branches to participate in “Digital On-Demand,” the DoD’s initiative to accelerate AI knowledge; and

- The DoD to add an AI risks and threats section to its annual mandatory cybersecurity training.

The AI Training for National Security Act is the final remaining provision from the Next Generation Military Education Act that has yet to become law.

In 2019, Larsen successfully included a provision in the FY20 National Defense Authorization Act that required DoD to develop an AI education strategy. Larsen’s provision also required the underlying curriculum to include ethical issues, bias, and potential strengths and weaknesses of AI.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4071,Larsen Releases Statement on Defense Policy Bill Vote,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bipartisan NDAA passed the House by a final vote of 312 to 112 and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

“I supported this year’s NDAA because it includes provisions to improve servicemembers’ quality of life, strengthen military communities, keep commitments to NATO allies and provide necessary oversight of the Trump administration,” said Rep. Larsen, who served for 22 years on the House Armed Services Committee.

Larsen Priorities for AI, Education, Ukraine Included

Several of Rep. Larsen’s priorities were included in the final NDAA:

A Raise for Servicemembers – The NDAA includes a 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers.

AI Literacy for Members of the Military – Rep. Larsen’s AI Training for National Security Act to require the Department of Defense (DoD) to incorporate AI training into its annual cybersecurity training is included in the NDAA. More information about the legislation is available HERE.

Impact Aid for Northwest Washington Schools – The bill authorizes $70 million for DoD Supplemental Impact Aid to support local school districts with large populations of military-connected students.

Funding to Support Ukraine’s Self-Defense – The NDAA includes $400 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which builds Ukraine's capacity to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, supports institutional transformation initiatives and advances U.S. political and military objectives.

Supports Our NATO Allies – The NDAA supports our transatlantic partnerships by permanently authorizing the Baltic Security initiative and stopping Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from reducing the number of troops in Europe below 76,000.

Oversight of Trump Administration – The NDAA also includes provisions strengthening congressional oversight of President Trump’s immigration agenda, including by requiring military personnel to display their service branch name when supporting civilian law enforcement in U.S. cities and requiring DoD to report to Congress when military assets are used in immigration enforcement.

Repeals Authorizations of Use of Military Force (AUMFs) – The NDAA repeals the 1991 and 2002 AUMFS, which authorized the use of military force in Iraq. This is an important step to unwinding the blanket authority presidents have to conduct war without appropriate congressional oversight.

Larsen to Keep Fighting for Reproductive Health; Opposes Anti-Labor, Anti-LGBTQ+ Provisions

“Unfortunately, at the last minute, Republican leadership stripped out a bipartisan provision that was in both the House and Senate NDAAs to provide servicemembers with access to IVF. No one should have to choose between serving their country and starting their family, and I will keep working to ensure military families can access IVF,” Larsen said.

“This is not a perfect bill, and I will also keep fighting to restore collective bargaining rights for civilian DoD employees and oppose cruel, anti-LGBTQ+ attacks on servicemembers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/washington-delegation-demands-answers-bp-pipeline-leak-0,Washington Delegation Demands Answers on BP Pipeline Leak,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. House Representative Emily Randall (WA-06), joined Rep. Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Kim Schrier, MD (WA-08), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Adam Smith (WA-09), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) in a letter calling on BP to answer questions surrounding the November leak of the Olympic Pipeline in Snohomish County.

The leak released a reported 2,300 gallons of fuel into Snohomish County waterways and soil, and temporarily cut off fuel delivery to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for nearly two weeks, causing flight disruptions.

“While we are relieved that the pipeline is now operational, this malfunction jeopardized airline operations, farmlands, water safety, wildlife habitat, and public health. Further, we are concerned because this spill is part of a decades-long history of spills and ruptures in the Olympic Pipeline,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to BP North America CEO Murray Auchincloss.

BP has agreed to brief the lawmakers on the leak and its impact on the region. The lawmakers outlined several outstanding questions they would like addressed and answered in writing by January 8, 2026:

1. What volume of refined products did the November 11, 2025 leak release?

2. What efforts are BP North America and the Olympic Pipeline undertaking to determine the full extent of refined products that may have leaked into surrounding water sources or soil?

3. Provide an outline of BP’s plan to remediate any contamination, including the timeline for these activities and an assessment of local businesses or residences impacted.

4. Do you commit to timely public disclosure of all spill data, such as volume, location, environmental sampling results, and remediation efforts, for review by public and relevant state and local agencies? If so, what is your projected timeline for this information disclosure?

5. Provide a complete list of spills and volume spilled since November 25, 2005 from any pipelines owned by BP in Washington State.

6. What corrective measures will BP North America and the Olympic Pipeline take to reduce future spill risk?

7. Do you commit to fully cooperating with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission to determine the cause of the leak and make any necessary corrective actions?

8. Do you commit to fully cooperating with the Washington Department of Ecology for assessment of the extent of the spill as well as all clean-up operations?

9. The Washington Department of Ecology issued a $3.8 million fine for the 2023 Olympic Pipeline leak in Conway, WA. Following that leak, how did BP update its monitoring and maintenance practices?

10. Since the 2023 leak in Conway, has BP found any other leaks along the Olympic pipeline? Is there a connection between the 2023 leak in Conway, or any subsequent leaks, and this one?

11. Governor Ferguson’s emergency declaration following the shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline highlights the need to develop further emergency plans to service airline operation needs in the event of future fuel incidents. Do you commit to working with the state and relevant transit authorities to address emergency planning needs?

“Given the history of the Olympic Pipeline, Washington residents must have confidence that BP is treating this most recent leak with all due seriousness. The Olympic Pipeline is an essential piece of infrastructure to our region. We hope you share our goal of ensuring that it is also reliable and secure for the sake of the Pacific Northwest’s residents and environment,” the lawmakers continued.

There have already been three significant incidents with the pipeline since 2023, and this leak could be the fourth if it meets federal criteria. This includes the December 2023 leak near Conway for which BP was recently fined $3.8 million by Washington state.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schrier-votes-pass-ndaa,Congresswoman Schrier Votes to Pass NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), voted to pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an annual piece of legislation that authorizes defense programs to maintain military readiness and increase national security. The package includes provisions that will raise pay for service members, bolster access to quality healthcare and child care, and authorize millions to build new schools. This year’s legislation finally reclaims Congress’ war power authority, after delegating that responsibility to the president for decades.

“This bipartisan bill makes vital investments to bolster our national security at home and abroad, and support those brave service members who protect our country,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “I’m proud to cast my vote to give our service members a much-deserved pay raise, provide proper oversight of the Trump Administration, and strengthen healthcare and child care access for our military personnel.”

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 includes these key provisions:

Provides a 3.8% pay raise for all service members and increases the Family Separation Allowance for deployed service members.

Makes the most substantive reforms to the defense acquisition process and system in decades.

Repeals the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against Iraq, preventing further involvement in the Middle East without appropriate congressional oversight.

Fences funding until the Secretary of Defense provides unedited videos of strikes that have occurred in the Caribbean, as well as copies of related classified Executive Orders.

Makes necessary investments to maintain our standing across the globe by strengthening nuclear deterrence, expanding missile defense, and providing critical resources and authorities to counter adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

Authorizes $491 million to build new child care centers, extends the Child Care in Your Home pilot program, and improves the fee assistance program rate cap for eligible community-based child care providers.

Prevents the Department from reducing healthcare staff and expands travel reimbursement for specialty care.

Requires an assessment of mental health staffing levels, wait times, and the availability of telehealth services.

Authorizes over $206 million to build new Department of Defense Education Activity schools, authorizes $50 million in Impact Aid assistance, and allows Department schools to limit or ban student cell phone use.

Allows retiring service members to move into civilian defense positions and establishes a transition assistance pilot program for military spouses.

Authorizes $800 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative over two years and additional funding for the Baltic Security Initiative and Taiwan Security Initiative.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://strickland.house.gov/2025/12/10/strickland-statement-on-passage-of-national-defense-bill/,Strickland Statement on Passage of National Defense Bill,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Marilyn Strickland,S001159,strickland.house.gov,strickland,https://strickland.house.gov/category/press_release/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) released the following statement on her vote for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA):

“While the President and Speaker Johnson continue to disregard the historically bipartisan defense bill process, there are solid wins in the bill that support servicemembers and their families. They will receive a 3.8% pay raise, and the Basic Allowance for Housing calculation will be modernized.

In addition, I secured $80 million for a new fire station that is desperately needed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and $55 million for a Command and Control Center at the base.”

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://baumgartner.house.gov/2025/12/10/baumgartner-issues-statement-on-final-passage-of-fy26-ndaa/,Baumgartner Issues Statement on Final Passage of FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Michael Baumgartner,B001322,baumgartner.house.gov,baumgartner,https://baumgartner.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Michael Baumgartner (WA-05) issued the following statement upon the passage of the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“The passage of the NDAA is first and foremost about keeping faith with the men and women who wear the uniform and the families who stand behind them,” said Congressman Baumgartner. “It gives our troops in Eastern Washington a much-needed pay raise, safer barracks to sleep in, better homes for their families, and stronger hospitals and clinics when they need care. It also takes on the drugs flowing into our communities, stands shoulder to shoulder with our allies around the globe, and makes sure they can count on America when it matters most. Supporting this bill was an easy choice, because it honors the sacrifice of those who serve, keeps them safer on and off the battlefield, and reflects the values we share as a nation.”

The passage of the FY26 NDAA authorizes $900.6 billion for the following national defense priorities including but not limited to:

Improves the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and increased benefits for military families;

Authorizes $1 billion to fight drug trafficking;

Authorizes over $1.5 billion for new construction of barracks and family housing;

Authorizes over $335 million to renovate military hospitals and build new medical facilities;

Streamlines and improves the international arms sales process to ensure that the United States remains the partner of choice for our allies;

Advances the President’s “Peace Through Strength” initiative by authorizing $400 million for Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and by fully funding the U.S. commitment to defend Israel through joint U.S.-Israel cooperative missile defense programs; and

Authorizes funds to construct the Golden Dome

Background:

The NDAA passed the House on September 10, 2025, and the Senate passed their version on October 10, 2025. The House and Senate Armed Services Committees reached bipartisan, bicameral agreements to get the final version on the House Floor, which passed the House by a 312-112 vote.

The final NDAA bill must now pass the Senate before it can go to the President to be signed into law.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://baumgartner.house.gov/media/press-releases/baumgartner-issues-statement-passage-secure-rural-schools-reauthorization-act,Baumgartner Issues Statement on Passage of Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Michael Baumgartner,B001322,baumgartner.house.gov,baumgartner,https://baumgartner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Michael Baumgartner issued the following statement on the passage of the S.356, Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025.

“Reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools program was long overdue, and today’s vote finally delivers the certainty our rural communities have been asking for. In counties like Pend Oreille, Stevens, Ferry, and Columbia, these dollars keep teachers in classrooms, students on buses, and core programs running for families who live and work near our national forests. This is about keeping faith with our rural communities that have done their part for generations and deserve to know that their schools and kids won’t be left behind.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4068,"Larsen Introduces Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Access to Transportation, Health Care",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) announced the introduction of the Veterans Access to Transit Act (H.R. 6451), legislation to establish a Department of Transportation (DOT) pilot program to provide veterans with public transportation to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities and veterans organizations.

“Local veterans have told me consistently that lack of transportation is a significant barrier to health care, especially in rural and island communities,” said Rep. Larsen. “Introducing this bill is one important step toward ensuring Northwest Washington’s 47,000 veterans can access timely, quality health care.”

In his time in Congress, Rep. Larsen has hosted more than 70 forums to hear directly from Northwest Washington state veterans about their needs, including five roundtables in September. Last month, he published ‘Listening to Veterans in Northwest Washington,’ a report capturing local veterans’ most pressing challenges and outlining policy recommendations for Congress and VA to address these concerns.

Rep. Larsen recently submitted this report to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (HVAC) to ensure Northwest Washington veterans’ voices impact the policy-making process.

“This fall, I met with veterans and service providers in Everett, Bellingham, Burlington, Oak Harbor and Lummi Nation,” said Rep. Larsen in a letter to HVAC. “Based on those conversations, I wrote a report that analyzes the challenges veterans in my district are facing, based on the four pillars that guide my work in veterans’ policy: health care, housing, education and employment. I look forward to working with the Committee to ensure veterans in Washington’s Second District have access to timely health care, affordable housing, high-quality education and fulfilling employment opportunities.”

Rep. Larsen also shared ‘Listening to Veterans in Northwest Washington’ with VA Secretary Doug Collins.

“At these [September] roundtables, veterans raised concerns about a wide range of issues… [including] specific challenges related to transportation, health care and housing, which I look forward to working with VA to address,” said Rep. Larsen in a letter to Secretary Collins. “While the local Puget Sound VA representatives continue to be great partners in serving the veterans of Northwest Washington state, VA leadership must make a stronger commitment to engaging with veterans directly, including through forums like these roundtables.”

You can access the full text of the Veterans Access to Transit Act HERE.

You can access the full text of Rep. Larsen’s letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-pro-nuclear-energy-legislation,Newhouse Introduces Pro-Nuclear Energy Legislation,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) introduced the Parity for Nuclear Energy Investment Act to expand tax incentives for investments in U.S. nuclear energy development.

""After protecting tax credits for nuclear energy in the Working Families Tax Cuts, it is time to expand investment opportunities for new projects in places like the Tri-Cities,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""The Administration is expediting efforts to produce more American nuclear energy, and Richland will be home to some of the first small modular reactors which will help achieve that goal. These projects will create new high-quality jobs, increase economic development, and make Central Washington a leader in the future of U.S. nuclear energy production.""

This legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03) and Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and is supported by Energy Northwest, the Nuclear Energy Institute, Elementl Power, Constellation Energy, Holtec International, the U.S. Nuclear Industry Council, and X-Energy.

Rep. Fleischmann said, ""President Trump has made unleashing American energy dominance one of the top priorities of his Administration. The historic One Big Beautiful Bill ensures that nuclear communities in Tennessee and nationwide receive the tax credits they need to continue investing in new nuclear technologies that are essential to expanding nuclear power, which is critical to meeting our future energy needs and securing our energy independence. I am proud to lead this bill with my good friend, Rep. Newhouse, to ensure that we continue strengthening and supporting America's nuclear communities.”

Bob Schuetz, CEO, Energy Northwest, said, ""This important bill from Congressman Newhouse reflects the national imperative to lead on advanced nuclear. It ensures the new nuclear energy communities bonus tax credit will benefit the world-class workforce and residents of the Tri-Cities, bringing down the cost of the new nuclear projects needed for grid reliability in for the Pacific Northwest.""

Maria Korsnick, President and CEO, the Nuclear Energy Institute, said, ""We commend Representative Newhouse for his support to close an important gap in the tax incentives for commercial nuclear technologies. Allowing new nuclear projects to claim the nuclear-specific energy community bonus under the section 48E tax credit mirrors what is already available for projects under the section 45Y tax credit. The change being proposed in the legislation will support new nuclear deployment and bring even more high-quality jobs to communities across the country.""

Chris Colbert, Chairman and CEO, Elementl Power, said, ""We strongly support the new legislation introduced by Representative Newhouse to address critical gaps in the current energy tax credit framework. By extending the nuclear communities bonus to the investment tax credit, this legislation will help spur the construction of new nuclear plants to meet our country’s growing power demands, unlock new opportunities for investment, job creation, and local economic growth in communities that have long supported America’s energy leadership.""

David Dardis, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal and Policy Officer, Constellation Energy, said, ""Constellation applauds Congressman Newhouse’s leadership and commitment to fostering innovation and growth in America’s energy sector. His bill providing parity for the Energy Communities credit to Section 48E will help drive investment in new, reliable clean energy projects at a critical time as we work to meet growing energy demand.""

Pat O'Brien, Director of Government Affairs and Communications, Holtec International, said, ""Congressman Newhouse is a leader in nuclear power because he understands the most significant hurdle to a true renaissance in baseload power is the construction cost. This provision doesn’t pay for the power plant but instead enables private capital to become obtainable. Significantly, it enables the new baseload power generation to site where previous plants have operated.""

Todd Abrajano, President and CEO of the U.S. Nuclear Industry Council, said, “Representative Newhouse’s bill is a timely, practical step that gives investors the certainty they need to move forward on the next wave of U.S. nuclear projects. By enabling advanced nuclear projects to claim the nuclear communities bonus through the investment tax credit, this bill will unlock long-term investment, spur new projects, and ensure that communities like the Tri-Cities remain leaders in deploying the next generation of clean, reliable power.”

Background

The Working Families Tax Cuts added a new bonus credit incentive with respect to the Clean Electricity Production Tax Credit under U.S. Code Section 45Y for “advanced nuclear facilities” located in “nuclear energy communities,” which are any metropolitan statistical area (MSA) that has, or any time since 2010 has had, 0.17% direct employment related to the advancement of nuclear power.

This bonus incentive for the 45Y credit increases a facility’s otherwise applicable production tax credit rate by 10 percent but does not apply to the 48E Investment Tax Credit.

This legislation would create parity for advanced nuclear energy investment by making available this 10 percent new bonus incentive with respect to the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit under U.S. Code Section 48E. Additionally, it would grant eligibility to new advanced nuclear facilities in non-metropolitan statistical areas, which makes this bonus tax credit consistent with those in existing law for other energy generation sources.

See full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-votes-reauthorize-secure-rural-schools-program,Newhouse Votes to Reauthorize Secure Rural Schools Program,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon passage of S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) Reauthorization Act of 2025, by the House of Representatives with a bipartisan vote of 399-5.

""The Secure Rural Schools program has provided critical funding for schools, roads, and other municipal services to more than seven hundred counties across the country, including here in Central Washington,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""This longstanding commitment from the federal government helps rural areas where resources are stretched thin, and the program’s lapse has put a real strain on counties who historically depend on these funds.

As a longtime supporter of SRS, I am pleased to see this program reauthorized, and I am thankful for the bipartisan support we have in making sure rural communities begin receiving this assistance again.""

Funding for the SRS program lapsed in 2023, resulting in school closures, delayed road and bridge maintenance, and reduced public safety services.

This legislation, passed by the U.S. Senate with unanimous consent on June 18, 2025, reauthorizes the SRS program for rural communities who depend on it.

Background

Since 1908, federal law has required the U.S. Forest Service to share 25 percent of revenue generated on federal land with local governments for public schools and public roads of the county or counties in which the forest reserve is situated.

For decades, timber sales were the largest source of revenue for local jurisdictions in these areas. However, as revenues declined, this created unexpected and prolonged fiscal challenges for local governments home to untaxed National Forest lands.

In response, Congress enacted the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000, giving counties the option to receive SRS payments to support public services like road maintenance, infrastructure, education, wildfire mitigation, and other efforts to address public safety.

Congress has consistently reauthorized these payments with overwhelming bipartisan support.

See full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/randall-cantwell-murray-bills-place-lower-elwha-klallam-tribe-and-quinault,"Randall, Cantwell, Murray Bills to Place Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation Lands into Trust Passes House",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed two major bills for Washington state Tribes, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act, and the Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act. Both bills initiate the first step to return land back to the Tribes by transferring ownership from the federal government to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the benefit of the Tribes.

U.S. Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06), and U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced the legislation in April 2025. The bills now go to the Senate for consideration.

""Today, we took an important step in upholding our treaty obligations by passing legislation to transfer land into trust for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and the Quinault Indian Nation. As a freshman member of Congress who represents — alongside their elected Tribal leaders — over 15,000 Tribal members, this significance is not lost on me,” said Rep. Randall. “I urge my colleagues in the Senate to quickly pass these two bills to ensure we meet our trust responsibilities to restore Tribal lands.”

“The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe led a historic regional effort to restore salmon runs by removing obsolete dams along Elwha River. Now, it’s time to return over 1,000 acres of land that was taken to build the dams and allow the Lower Elwha Klallam people to reclaim ancestral lands,” said Sen. Cantwell.

“These bills take critical first steps to transfer land that the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and the Quinault Indian Nation have stewarded for centuries, back to Tribal ownership,” said Senator Murray. “This is about righting historic wrongs and fulfilling a commitment to our Tribes—and it’s also an investment in salmon recovery, habitat restoration, and the preservation of key ecosystems for future generations. I am thrilled to see these bills pass the House and will continue fighting to pass them through the Senate, so we can see through this important effort to restore Tribal ownership of culturally significant lands in Washington state.”

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act:

This bill would transfer three parcels of land totaling 1,082 acres to the BIA to be held in trust for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe.

The land is just outside the boundaries of the Olympic National Park and includes 1,061 acres originally acquired by the National Park Service to demolish two dams along the Elwha River.

The two remaining parcels were acquired by the U.S. Department of the Interior to construct a pipeline to transfer surface water to the Tribe’s new fish hatchery – the House of Salmon.

The land transfer would boost habitat restoration efforts led by the Lower Elwha Tribe and federal agencies, aiding in the recovery of all five species of Pacific salmon and other native fish, including Chinook, coho, chum, pink and sockeye salmon, along with steelhead and bull trout.

This bill is an important action in the decades’ long effort to restore the Elwha River.

“The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act is very significant to the Elwha Klallam people. The return of these lands is an important final action to the dam removal project that rewilded the Elwha River and made possible the recovery of the salmon populations,” said Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Chairwoman Frances Charles. “The return of these sacred and culturally significant lands to the Tribe’s stewardship protects the federal investment in the restoration of the river and upholds the federal government’s treaty and trust obligations to the Tribe. The Tribe is grateful to Representative Randall for her efforts to keep this legislation moving toward the return of the lands to the Tribe.”

The proposal for the land to be taken into trust is supported by WSDOT, the Makah Tribe, and the City of Port Angeles.

Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act:

This bill would transfer 72 acres from the Forest Service to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Quinault Indian Nation.

The 72 acres, known as Allotment 1157, was originally part of the Quinault reservation that was established by the Treaty of Olympia of 1856.

After the passage of the Dawes Act of 1887, the Quinault Indian Reservation was separated into individual allotments and in 1928, Allotment 1157 was given to away through a Trust Deed signed by President Calvin Coolidge.

The Allotment was eventually sold to a timber company and was purchased by the U.S. Forest Service in 1996 for conservation.

Allotment 1157 is one of the last remnants of old growth forest, particularly old growth cedar, that were a significant part of the Quinault’s reservation.

The Quinault Nation plans to utilize this land as a living museum for educational purposes, where students and college interns will learn how to preserve other historical places. Trees and downed wood on this land will be utilized for cultural purposes, as has been done in the past.

“With the passage of the Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act today, the United States House of Representatives has taken a historic step to uphold the U.S. government’s promise that the Quinault Indian Reservation will always belong to the Quinault Nation.” said Quinault Indian Nation President Guy Capoeman. “The forced breakup of our reservation due to the Dawes Act erased one of the foundations of our way of life: our view that the land and waters of our homeland were for communal use by all. We thank Congresswoman Randall for introducing, supporting, and ensuring this important piece of legislation passed in the House. We now ask the Senate to quickly take up and pass this bill before the end of the year.”

“Returning 72 acres of the Quinault Indian Nation’s original reservation will restore the Tribe’s ancestral lands and help preserve one of the area’s last remnants of old growth forest as a living museum for future generations,” said Sen. Cantwell.

The proposal for the land to be taken into trust is supported by Jefferson and Grays Harbor County, the Hoh Tribe, and the Quileute Tribe. A document containing written letters of support is available HERE.

With the passage of the Dawes Act in 1867, the Quinault Reservation was broken up into 80-acre allotments, with many given to individual Tribal Members. As private interests quickly moved in to buy up the allotments, including allotment 1157, the Quinault Nation lost multiple pieces of its Reservation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://strickland.house.gov/2025/12/09/strickland-statement-on-naming-military-bases-after-confederate-traitors/,Strickland Statement on Naming Military Bases After Confederate Traitors,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Marilyn Strickland,S001159,strickland.house.gov,strickland,https://strickland.house.gov/category/press_release/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) released the following statement on her bipartisan Naming Commission for Military Assets amendment:

“The President and Speaker Johnson were willing to reject the defense bill if it included my bipartisan amendment to remove Confederate names from military bases. Republican leadership and the White House like to call themselves the “party of Lincoln,” but prefer to honor racist, Confederate traitors who fought to protect the institution of slavery. This is an insult to the African-Americans who wear the uniform, and the 40% of enlisted servicemembers who are minorities.”

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://baumgartner.house.gov/2025/12/09/baumgartner-issues-statement-on-passage-of-secure-rural-schools-reauthorization-act-of-2025/,Baumgartner Issues Statement on Passage of Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Michael Baumgartner,B001322,baumgartner.house.gov,baumgartner,https://baumgartner.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Michael Baumgartner issued the following statement on the passage of the S.356, Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025.

“Reauthorizing the Secure Rural Schools program was long overdue, and today’s vote finally delivers the certainty our rural communities have been asking for. In counties like Pend Oreille, Stevens, Ferry, and Columbia, these dollars keep teachers in classrooms, students on buses, and core programs running for families who live and work near our national forests. This is about keeping faith with our rural communities that have done their part for generations and deserve to know that their schools and kids won’t be left behind.”",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-statement-usda-relief-payments,Newhouse Statement on USDA Relief Payments,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement on the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) announcement of financial relief to farmers impacted by market disruptions.

""Farmers across the United States, including in Central Washington, are reaching a breaking point because of supply chain issues, high input costs, and uncertainty around foreign market access. While this announcement primarily benefits row crop producers, other specialty crop growers will need additional assistance as they struggle to make ends meet due to continued high labor costs,"" said Rep. Newhouse.

Newhouse added, ""I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Rollins for rolling out a bridge to get farmers and ranchers through lean times. I know they understand, as I do, that producers would prefer market certainty over direct payments from the federal government. I look forward to continuing working with this Administration to lower labor costs, reduce regulatory burdens, implement the agriculture provisions of the Working Families Tax Cut, and ensure American farmers and ranchers have the tools they need to make it to the next growing season.""

According to USDA, $12 billion will be made available for one time bridge payments to American farmers in response to temporary trade market disruptions and increased production costs impacting farmers.

Of the $12 billion provided, up to $11 billion will be used for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, which provides broad relief to U.S. row crop farmers who produce barley, chickpeas, corn, cotton, lentils, oats, peanuts, peas, rice, sorghum, soybeans, wheat, canola, crambe, flax, mustard, rapeseed, safflower, sesame, and sunflower.

The remaining $1 billion in bridge payments will be reserved for commodities not covered in the FBA Program such as specialty crops and sugar, for example, though details including timelines for those payments are still under development by USDA.

USDA said farmers who qualify for the FBA Program can expect payments to be released by February 28, 2026.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases/smith-and-valadao-introduce-bipartisan-charge-act-strengthen-energy-resilience,Smith and Valadao Introduce Bipartisan CHARGE Act to Strengthen Energy Resilience at Community Health Centers,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,adamsmith,https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Adam Smith (D-Wash.) and David Valadao (R-Calif) introduced the Community Health Access Through Resilient Grid Energy (CHARGE) Act, bipartisan legislation that creates a new grant program at the Department of Energy to help Federally Qualified Health Centers install solar energy systems and battery storage technologies. These upgrades will ensure that community health centers can maintain operations during grid disruptions, extreme weather events, and other emergencies.

“Community health centers are the backbone of care in underserved communities. Too many face dangerous gaps in power reliability during extreme weather or emergency situations,” said Smith. “The CHARGE Act is a smart and forward-looking investment that will help centers stay open, protect patients, and strengthen energy resilience across the country.”

“Federally Qualified Health Centers are a lifeline for families across the Central Valley, and we need to make sure they can stay open—even when emergencies happen,” said Valadao. “The CHARGE Act creates a new grant program to help FQHCs install reliable energy storage systems so they can keep serving patients without interruption. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Smith on this bipartisan effort to strengthen local healthcare and lower energy costs.”

Endorsements:

TThe bill is endorsed by the National Association of Community Health Centers, Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA), Solar United Neighbors, the Washington Association for Community Health, and HealthPoint.

Original cosponsors include Representatives Ed Case, Kimberlyn King-Hinds, and James Moylan.

""Electricity powers every step of health care. When Community Health Centers lose power, diabetic patients miss visits, pregnant women miss prenatal care, children forgo vaccinations, and patients needing behavioral health services miss therapy. After Hurricane Helene alone, power outages caused more than 10,000 patient appointment cancellations in one state alone. The bipartisan CHARGE Act, led by US Representatives Adam Smith (D-WA) and David Valadao (R-CA) will help health centers deploy solar energy and battery storage systems so they can continue serving as lifelines for their communities during disasters.”

– Ben Money, SVP of Population Health at National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC)

“When natural disasters and other grid-straining emergencies hit, solar and energy storage are critical to providing reliable power to those that need it most. We applaud Congressmen Smith and Valadao for championing this legislation which will enhance access to solar and storage for the Federally Qualified Community Health Centers working every day to provide essential care to communities across America.”

– Abigail Ross Hopper, President and CEO, Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)

“Community health centers are an essential part of the healthcare delivery system in rural and underserved regions across the country—especially here in the Central Valley. Central Valley Health Network applauds the leadership of Congressman Valadao and Smith in introducing the CHARGE Act of 2025, which will invest in improving healthcare in our communities while promoting renewable energy solutions.”

– Jason Vega, Chief Executive Officer, Central Valley Health Network

“Ensuring clean, reliable, and safe energy technologies is not only smart policy. It is a direct investment in community health and in the well-being of the diverse communities we serve.”

– HealthPoint

“We appreciate Representative Smith’s work with community health centers to develop this program that advances clean energy goals, helps reduce long-term energy costs, and supports local renewable energy jobs.”

– Washington Association for Community Health

Background:

FQHCs provide primary and preventive care to more than 34 million Americans each year, often in communities that are most vulnerable to outages and disasters. Many centers lack the reliable and affordable backup power systems needed to keep their doors open when power fails. The CHARGE Act offers a targeted and fiscally responsible solution that improves energy resilience, reduces long-term operating costs, and supports local clean energy jobs.

Under the bill, the Department of Energy, through the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, would award competitive grants to FQHCs, state and local governments, nonprofits, and qualifying provider networks. Funds may be used for solar installation, battery storage deployment, and technical assistance programs. The bill authorizes 50 million dollars annually from fiscal year 2026 through fiscal year 2030 for these purposes.

The CHARGE Act:

Creates a new Department of Energy grant program to help FQHCs deploy solar energy systems and energy storage technologies.

Authorizes 50 million dollars annually from fiscal year 2026 through fiscal year 2030 for installation projects and technical assistance.

Allows participation from FQHCs, state and local governments, nonprofits, and majority FQHC controlled provider networks.

Supports technical assistance to ensure that systems are effectively designed, installed, and operated for long-term resilience.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/05/jayapal-demands-answers-on-canceled-consumer-protection-actions/,Jayapal Demands Answers on Canceled Consumer Protection Actions,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"SEATTLE, WA — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) is demanding answers from Russ Vought, the Acting Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), regarding the Bureau’s ongoing push to drop pending enforcement actions involving billions of dollars in harm to American consumers.

“When a corporation breaks the law, it is the federal government’s responsibility to hold them accountable, penalize their wrongdoing, and get relief for the people who were harmed,” wrote Jayapal. “Unfortunately, since the beginning of the Trump Administration, the CFPB has not only shut down all investigations into potential law-breaking, it has also been quietly dismissing or rolling back settled enforcement cases. This abdication of legal responsibility rigs the system in favor of the elite, allowing major corporations to get away with ripping off consumers and harming local communities.”

Since its establishment in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, the CFPB has held financial institutions accountable and returned over $21 billion to American consumers who have been scammed by illegal corporate actions. However, as of October 15, 2025, the CFPB has permanently dismissed 22 public enforcement actions that were pending when President Trump took office. The Trump Administration has also terminated or modified at least 20 settled actions where lawbreaking corporations had already agreed to compensate victims, pay fines, and cease illegal conduct.

The full text of Jayapal’s letter, which outlines each of the dismissed cases, can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/05/jayapal-hosts-shadow-hearing-on-trumps-detention-abuses/,Jayapal Hosts Shadow Hearing on Trump’s Detention Abuses,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Full video of the hearing can be found HERE.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, hosted a shadow hearing titled Kidnapped and Disappeared: Trump’s Detention Abuses. Twenty-five Members of Congress attended this hearing.

“Today, according to ICE’s own statistics, 73 percent of people held in ICE detention have no criminal conviction and the vast majority of the remaining 27 percent have minor convictions such as traffic violations. ICE has been arresting people at courthouses when they’re trying to follow the legal process. They are profiling immigrants around the country, picking people up for the language they speak or the street corner they hang out on,” said Jayapal. “So immigration detention centers are full of mothers and fathers and beloved community members while those who pose a threat are free. Amidst this surge in detention, conditions have gone from bad to worse with terrible overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, long waits to get medical help if received at all, and inedible food, described by some as ‘dripping with blood.’ Multiple pregnant women have been shackled and even suffered miscarriages due to their mistreatment in detention. And since Trump took office, in just 10 months, there have been 23 in-custody deaths – a shocking number and more than any year since 2005. As Republicans refuse to conduct oversight, I will continue to hold these hearings to ensure that.”

This hearing featured witness testimony from Sarah Owings, an attorney representing multiple formerly detained and currently detained immigrants, including 54 Korean workers from the Hyundai plant that was raided in September, Mildred Pierre, the wife of Rodney Taylor, who is currently being held at the Stewart Detention Center, Laura St. John, the Legal Director of the Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project, and Kate Voigt, a Senior Policy Counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

“Overcrowding worsens already poor detention conditions, especially in remote private prisons that lack sufficient medical staff and equipment to address the complex health needs of detainees who have chronic conditions and who are being denied release in nearly all circumstances,” said Sarah Owings. “The government’s continued investment in expanding detention infrastructure does not address these underlying issues; instead, it allows them to become even more widespread.”

“The world needs to know what is happening to people like Rodney including solitary confinement, no access to water, limited to no medical attention, and deplorable conditions at Stewart Detention Center,” said Mildred Pierre, Rodney Taylor’s wife and advocate who has been right by his side through all of his detainment testified the horrific conditions Rodney has endured as a double amputee in detainment. “Rodney’s health has been impacted as a result of limited medical attention for his prosthetics that requires charging daily.”

“The Trump administration is creating hopelessness by design,” said Laura St. John, Legal Director at the Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project. “We’ve seen people unjustly kept in detention for months or years while this administration makes repeated attempts to remove them to third countries. Additionally, an abrupt change of law around bond eligibility has functionally eliminated release options for most people. This remains true despite numerous federal courts holding that the Agency’s new interpretation is contrary to law. Thousands of people now face months, if not years, in detention if they fight their case without any review by a judge to determine whether their detention is fair, just, or necessary. At the same time, conditions in detention centers are rapidly worsening. We thank Ranking Member Jayapal and the Members in attendance for their commitment to shining a light on how this administration is treating people in immigration detention.”

“ICE is turbocharging $45 billion in taxpayer dollars to rapidly expand ICE detention capacity across the country,” said Kate Voigt, Senior Policy Counsel at the ACLU. “Without the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties – and other oversight agencies that were also eliminated in March – there is no effective internal oversight mechanism while immigration detention is exploding in scale. The ACLU thanks Ranking Member Jayapal for her commitment to conducting oversight of the abuses happening in detention facilities across the country, and we encourage all Members of Congress to hold ICE accountable for its egregious actions.”

This was the fifth shadow hearing in this series, each of which has focused on a different aspect of immigration oversight. The others have focused on Trump’s assault on Chicago, families that have been torn apart, unlawful third country deportations, and efforts to undermine due process.

Jayapal was joined at this hearing by Representatives Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07), Val Hoyle (OR-05), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Mark Takano (CA-39), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Derek Tran (CA-45), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-welcomes-secretary-wright-visit-energy-innovation-and-hanford,Newhouse Welcomes Secretary Wright for Visit on Energy Innovation and Hanford Mission,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"TRI-CITIES – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) hosted U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright in the Tri-Cities for visits to Department of Energy projects including the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and the Hanford Site.

""It was a pleasure showing Secretary Wright how much Central Washington contributes to reliable, affordable, American energy. After several visits to some of our most important energy projects, the Secretary has seen firsthand how our region is leading the nation in both innovation and development,"" said Rep Newhouse.

Newhouse added, ""At Hanford, Secretary Wright witnessed how decades of hard work have resulted in the world’s largest vitrification plant and reaffirmed his commitment to the success of the Hanford mission.

This Administration understands the role our national lab plays in the future of our nation's energy capabilities, that our Lower Snake River dams are the shining example of hydropower in our vast energy portfolio, and that Hanford is delivering on the government’s commitment to clean up the site.""

On December 4, Rep. Newhouse and Secretary Wright visited PNNL to hear from leaders and scientists on how the lab is supporting developing energy technologies and commissioned new technology to advance the mission of the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, Biological and Environmental Research program. The Secretary explained how our National Labs are ""crown jewels"" of the scientific community and that PNNL is a world-class institution.

While at PNNL, Secretary Wright discussed President Trumps' recent Executive Order launching the Genesis Mission, a new national effort to use artificial intelligence to transform how scientific research is conducted and accelerate the speed of scientific discovery. U.S. National Labs will be a key piece of the mission.

The Secretary also spoke on the importance of the four Lower Snake River dams after visiting the Ice Harbor Dam. He discussed how important our dams are in keeping rates low and ensuring grid reliability, even during high demand.

Secretary Wright leads a press conference at PNNL on December 4, 2025. (Office of Rep. Dan Newhouse)

On December 5, Rep. Newhouse and Secretary Wright visited Hanford, where the Secretary saw for the first time the Tank Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant, also known as the Vit Plant.

In October, Bechtel announced the plant had successfully converted the first batch of radioactive and chemical waste into glass through the vitrification process.

The plant will process and stabilize much of the 56 million gallons of radioactive and chemical waste currently stored in underground tanks at the Hanford site. When fully operational, the plant will process an average of 5,300 gallons of tank waste per day.

As a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water responsible for funding the U.S. Department of Energy, Rep. Newhouse will work closely with Secretary Wright to support PNNL, the Hanford mission, and protect the Lower Snake River dams.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-randall-ruiz-lead-18-dem-colleagues-letter-hhs-secretary-kennedy-address,"Reps. Randall, Ruiz lead 18 Dem Colleagues In Letter to HHS Secretary Kennedy to Address Gaps in Tribal Health Grant Funding",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, U.S. House Representatives Emily Randall (D, WA-06), Raul Ruiz (D, CA-25), led 18 Democratic colleagues in a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kennedy raising concerns about recent changes to federal grant eligibility that could undermine health care services in Native communities.

“Despite the high percentage of [American Indian and Alaska Native] people in urban areas, the urban Indian health line-item makes up only about 1 percent of the [Indian Health Service] (IHS) budget and for some [Urban Indian Organizations] (UIOs), IHS funding covers less than half of their budget,” the members wrote in the letter. “Because of this, UIOs rely heavily on other federal grants from multiple HHS agencies to carry out their functions. Cuts or changes to these grants will disproportionately impact UIOs ability to carry out their mission and serve their patients.""

The lawmakers warn that updated guidance limits eligibility to “Tribes” and “Tribal organizations,” excluding Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) from applying. This shift threatens critical funding streams that support high-quality, culturally grounded health care for American Indian and Alaska Native people — including the approximately 87% who live in urban areas.

""As a result of HHS’s restricting, we are concerned that UIOs are now at risk of losing eligibility for funding streams that were previously available to the entire [Indian Health Service, Tribal Health Services, and Urban Indian Health Programs] (I/T/U) system because the language used in some grant eligibility criteria only mentions “tribes and tribal organizations” as eligible entities,” the members continued. “We believe this is an unintentional oversight caused by the mistaken belief that UIOs are considered Tribal Organizations, which they are not. UIOs are non-profit, IHS contracted agencies—a key component in the I/T/U system and exist as an extension of treaty rights to provide direct health services to citizens of federally recognized Tribes.""

In addition to Reps. Randall and Ruiz, the letter was signed by Reps. Ansari (D, AZ-03), Timothy M. Kennedy (D, NY-26), Soto (D, FL-09), Stanton (D, AZ-04), Grijalva (D, AZ-07), Stansbury (D, NM-01), Jayapal (D, WA-07), Case (D, HI-01), Salinas (D, OR-06), Watson Coleman (D, NJ-12), Brownley (D, CA-26), Lofgren (D, CA-18), Stevens (D, MI-11), Huffman (D, CA-02), Robin Kelly (D, IL-02), Hoyle (D, OR-04), Dexter (D, OR-03), Leger Fernandez (D, NM-03).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kim-schrier-md-wa-08-blasts-dangerous-acip-decision-stop,"Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), Blasts Dangerous ACIP Decision to Stop Recommending Birth Dose of Hepatitis B Vaccine",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), the first pediatrician elected to Congress, released the following statement after the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to stop recommending the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine.

""As expected and feared, RFK Jr.’s anti-vaxxer stacked Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) just ended the standard practice of vaccinating every newborn against hepatitis B, a terrible disease that infants can be exposed to at birth and from contact with people who unknowingly have hepatitis B. The ramifications of today’s decision – made without any indication that a newborn dose is unsafe – will be horrific. Ninety percent of those infected as newborns will go on to have chronic hepatitis B, and many of them will die prematurely from liver disease or liver cancer.

""This is entirely preventable. We have already tried only immunizing people thought to be ‘at risk’, but did not see near elimination of new cases until universal vaccination at birth. Today's decision will cause our nation's children to get infected and die needlessly. I will do all I can to fight against this decision. Parents, please trust your pediatrician, not RFK, Jr.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/democratic-doctors-caucus-condemns-dangerous-acip-decision-stop-recommending,Democratic Doctors Caucus Condemns Dangerous ACIP Decision to Stop Recommending Birth Dose of Hepatitis B Vaccine,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Democratic Doctors Caucus released the following statement after the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to stop recommending the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine.

“The Democratic Doctors Caucus unequivocally condemns the decision to end the decades-long standard practice of vaccinating every newborn against hepatitis B. Today’s decision—made without any scientific justification that a newborn dose is unsafe—will lead to more disease, more cancer, more preventable deaths, and will further increase the cost of health care in our nation. We call on Acting CDC Director O’Neill to reject this recommendation. The Democratic Doctors Caucus will keep up our fight against this administration’s continued attacks like this on basic science and do all we can to protect the health and well-being of the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4228,DelBene Announces WA-01 Winner of 2025 Congressional App Challenge,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) announced AnemoDx, coded by Isabella Li, Hiya Pandey, and Anya Mehta from Redmond High School, as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge from Washington’s 1st Congressional District.

AnemoDx is an app that serves as a non-invasive, early warning system for people with anemia by helping users estimate their hemoglobin levels and alert them if they are too high or too low. It encourages users to seek out medical attention when necessary, making it especially useful to those who are prone to anemia and people in underprivileged or rural areas who may have limited access to regular blood tests or healthcare facilities. A demo of AnemoDx can be found here.

The winning app was selected by a panel of impartial judges from our local technology community.

The panel also awarded second place to BillBrain, created by Abhinav Bandaru, Vishvath Vinesh, Lohith Thimmichetty, and Ghirish Senthil Kumar from Lake Stevens High School, and third place to SwiftPermit, created by Arron Randhawa, Rohan Chilikuri, and Ishwin Baweja from Lake Washington High School.

AnemoDx will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the next year, along with winning apps from other congressional districts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-randall-slams-speaker-johnson-over-inaction-solve-republican-created,Rep. Randall Slams Speaker Johnson Over Inaction to Solve Republican-Created Health Care Crisis,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON DC -- Today, U.S. Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06) spoke on the House floor to raise the alarm on the Republican-created health care crisis. At the end of the month, the Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits will officially expire, leaving 24 million Americans who currently purchase health care on the exchange to face skyrocketing monthly premiums.

A full transcript of Rep. Randall’s remarks are below, video HERE:

“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I come to the floor today to raise the alarm on the Republican health care crisis. Speaker Johnson shut the government down for 43 days and kept the House out of session, effectively running out the clock to find solutions to address the health care affordability crisis created by my Republican colleagues. And now we have just 11 session days left before recessing for the holidays.

“And my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have offered zero solutions. At the end of the month, the Affordable Care Act enhanced Premium tax credits will officially expire, leaving 24 million Americans who currently purchase health care on the exchange in an unimaginable position.

“While Mike Johnson may be sleeping soundly and enjoying the holidays with his family, millions of Americans will be up at night worrying about how they are going to pay for health insurance -- on top of the affordability crisis the Trump administration created with reckless policies.

“My family knows what this feels like. My sister Olivia was born with microcephaly, which means her brain was small and the doctors didn't know why. And even with insurance provided by my dad's civilian job at the Department of Defense, Olivia wouldn't have gotten the care that she needed to live for 19 years as healthy as possible if it weren't for the Washington State Legislature expanding Medicaid the year she was born.

“And my family would have faced dire choices about which bills not to pay in order to meet Olivia's needs if it weren't for Medicaid access. Would we give up heating, groceries, school lunches?

“Neighbors of mine in Washington’s 6th are already sick to their stomachs looking at their monthly costs.

“For example, a couple in Clallam County, ages 60 and 55, with a household income of $85,000, for them -- the least expensive plan available would jump from $127 a month to $1,485 per month. That's a 1,062% increase.

“That same couple in Kitsap County, where I grew up, would go from paying $56 to almost $1,500 a month under the least expensive plan.

“That's an annual insurance bill of $24,000, without even having to go to the doctor for a medical emergency or routine health care.

“I recently heard from a neighbor in Port Townsend who said, “My husband is retiring in a few weeks,” she retired years ago, “so although we currently have a good benefits package through his work, we will be on our own for coverage soon. Only yesterday we learned of the substantial increase through Health Plan Finder. We have now determined that the best way to cover our upcoming health care costs will be for me to take my Social Security early.”

“She says, ‘It's upsetting to me that my Social Security will not be used for other living expenses -- or be as much per month as it would have if I could hold off on taking it for a few more years.’

“She's worried in her last line about not being able to use her Social Security for other living expenses, because she's going to have to use all of it for health care coverage.

“Under this administration, costs are up across the board. Groceries are more expensive. Housing is more expensive. Childcare is more expensive. Gas prices are soaring. Today, the average price for a gallon of gas in Washington state is over $4, one of the highest in the nation.

“Health care costs are only one aspect of why millions of Americans are needlessly suffering under this administration. We don't have to keep living like this.

“It's time for my colleagues to get serious about solving the ACA tax credits -- as serious as they were about extending tax breaks for billionaires in July -- and get back to delivering on their promise to lower costs for Americans, which Trump promised to do on day one of his administration.

“Mr. Speaker, I yield back.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases/smith-jayapal-introduce-legislation-end-inhumane-immigration-detention,"Smith, Jayapal Introduce Legislation to End Inhumane Immigration Detention Conditions",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Adam Smith,S000510,adamsmith.house.gov,adamsmith,https://adamsmith.house.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Adam Smith (WA-09) are today introducing the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act, legislation to enact guardrails and oversight on immigration detention, and to ensure civil and human rights are protected.

""We are witnessing appalling conditions for immigration detention and a clear disregard for basic human rights,"" said Smith. ""No one should be subjected to overcrowded cells, denied medical care, or held in facilities that profit off of human suffering. This legislation establishes the oversight and guardrails needed to end these abuses and ensure that people are treated with dignity.""

“Under the Trump Administration, we have seen a shocking surge in the detention of people who have committed no crimes being locked up in increasingly horrifying conditions,” said Jayapal. “People are being held in squalor, largely in private, for-profit detention facilities, all to pad the bottom lines of prison corporations that donate to Donald Trump and Republicans. As Trump has struck down legal pathways and made it nearly impossible to come to or stay in this country, even for those who have been here for decades, this will only continue to get worse. We must pass this legislation to protect dignity and civil rights in America.”

Since President Trump returned to office, the use of immigration detention has skyrocketed to unprecedented levels, with over 66,000 people detained. During that period of time, 23 people have died in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. Nearly 73 percent of those detained have no criminal convictions, and many of those with convictions have only minor offenses, including traffic violations.

Detained people in these facilities are being held in inhumane living conditions, with reports of overcrowding forcing 35 men to share one toilet and sleep head to toe on concrete floors, of people being served only a cup of rice a day or rotting food, and of people having their medications withheld or being denied necessary medical care. Further, the Trump Administration has restarted the practice of detaining families and children, which has long been criticized as unsafe and inflicting irreversible harm on children.

This is while the Trump Administration has blocked Congressional oversight, despite death reports that do not line up with autopsy reports. In the case of Chaofeng Ge, ICE stated that he died by suicide, while his attorney alleges he was found with his hands and feet tied.

The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act would:

Repeal mandatory detention;

Prohibit the detention of families and children in family detention;

Create a presumption of release and impose a higher burden of proof to detain primary caregivers and vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, survivors of torture or gender-based violence, people with serious mental or physical illness or disability, LGBTQ individuals, asylum seekers, and people over age 60;

Phase out the use of private detention facilities and jails over a three-year period;

Require DHS to establish civil detention standards that provide, at minimum, the level of protection in the American Bar Association’s Civil Immigration Detention Standards;

Mandate the DHS Inspector General to conduct unannounced inspections with meaningful penalties for failure to comply with standards; and

Require DHS to admit Members of Congress to detention facilities for unannounced inspections.

“The reintroduction of the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act could not come at a more urgent moment,” said Haddy Gassama, Senior Policy Counsel at the ACLU. “We are witnessing an unprecedented expansion of the immigration detention system, with billions of taxpayer dollars being funneled into the hands of private prison corporations, profiteers who are building and operating abusive detention facilities, while deaths in custody and other egregious abuses reach record levels. These are not abstract policy failures; they are the lived realities of the 66,000 people disappeared into an inhumane system that has long thrived on opacity, minimal oversight, and virtually no accountability.

“The reintroduction of the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act comes at a critical moment, as the harsh realities of immigration detention are no longer hidden but visible in every empty seat once occupied by a loved one sent to detention,” said Jennifer Ibañez Whitlock, Senior Policy Counsel at the National Immigration Law Center. “Real change will take time, but immigration detention is an urgent threat that demands immediate action. The National Immigration Law Center welcomes the re-introduction of this important bill and urges Congress to act quickly to secure its passage.”

“The National Immigrant Justice Center is grateful for members of Congress fighting for communities increasingly under attack, facing inhumane conditions in a system driven by private contractors profiting off the imprisonment of human beings,” said Jesse Franzblau, Associate Director of Policy, National Immigrant Justice Center. “The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act is pivotal legislation that works to end the private incentive to fill up prisons, fund communities and not cages, and combat impunity for the persistent human rights violations that occur everyday in immigration detention. This legislation is a guide for Congress working to dismantle walls and prisons and invest in an immigration system grounded in humanity.”

“Trump’s cruel mass detention and deportation agenda has reached a previously unimaginable scope and scale, skyrocketing the number of people in immigration detention,” said Setareh Ghandehari, Advocacy Director of Detention Watch Network. “In more than 200 detention facilities across the country ICE subjects people to medical neglect, overcrowding, horrendous conditions of confinement, and rampant transfers that disappear people into the detention system, sowing confusion and cutting people off from their loved ones and support networks. As the administration aggressively expands the detention system and puts people’s lives in jeopardy at a cost to all Americans, Congress must take immediate and decisive action to intervene. While this bill does not fully end the inhumane and unnecessary system of immigration detention, it takes a bold step forward by ending mandatory detention, ending privatized detention, enacting critical safeguards and reversing the trend of constant, unchecked growth.”

The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act is sponsored by Alma Adams (NC-12), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), André Carson (IN-07), Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jesús ""Chuy"" García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Al Green (TX-09), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Pablo José Hernández (PR-At Large), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Mike Levin (CA-49), Ted W. Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).

The legislation is also endorsed by American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); Detention Watch Network; National Immigrant Justice Center; National Immigration Law Center; AFL-CIO; African Communities Together; African Human Rights Coalition; AFT; American Friends Service Committee (AFSC); American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA); Amica Center for Immigrant Rights ; Amnesty International USA; Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC; ASISTA Immigration Assistance; Bend the Arc: Jewish Action; CASA; Center for Constitutional Rights; Center for Gender & Refugee Studies; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Center for Victims of Torture; Church World Service; Communities United for Status & Protection (CUSP); Community Change Action; Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces; Congressional Progressive Caucus; Disability Law United; Fair Immigration Reform Movement (FIRM); Franciscan Action Network; Friends Committee on National Legislation ; Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees; Haitian Bridge Alliance; Human Rights First ; Immigrant Justice Network; Immigrant Legal Resource Center; Immigration Equality Action Fund; Indivisible; Just Detention International ; The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA); LatinoJustice PRLDEF; Make the Road States; Muslim Advocates; National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd; National Immigration Project; National Partnership for New Americans; National Religious Campaign Against Torture; NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; People's Action Institute; Refugees International ; Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF); Social Workers for Immigration Justice; Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC); Southern Border Communities Coalition (SBCC); Tahirih Justice Center; UndocuBlack Network; UnidosUS; Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice; United Church of Christ; Vera Institute of Justice; Adhikaar for Human Rights and Social Justice; Ayuda; Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA); Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights; Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef); Immigration Services and Legal Advocacy (ISLA); JAMAAT - Jews and Muslims Ana Allies Acting Together; Miami Valley Immigration Coalition; Northwest Immigrant Rights Project; OneAmerica; Promise Arizona; Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network; and Services, Immigrant Rights and Education Network (SIREN).

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4230,DelBene Leads Bipartisan Effort Urging USTR to Hold Canada Accountable for Dairy Trade Violations,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Suzan K. DelBene,D000617,delbene.house.gov,delbene,https://delbene.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Tony Wied (WI-8), Jim Costa (CA-21) led a bipartisan group of 74 members of the House of Representatives in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, urging him to hold Canada accountable for failing to meet its dairy commitments under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The letter calls on the administration to use the upcoming 2026 USMCA review process to address these longstanding concerns.

During USMCA negotiations, Canada agreed to expand market access for U.S. dairy by creating new tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) reserved exclusively for American producers. Instead, Canada has undermined the agreement by allocating most TRQs to Canadian processors, who often have no incentive to import, rather than to retailers, restaurants, or food service providers who have the need and desire for high-quality, lower-cost U.S. dairy products.

Canada has further distorted the market by offloading artificially low-priced nonfat milk solids onto the global marketplace, putting downward pressure on prices for U.S. producers. Despite repeated U.S. challenges, Canada has refused to uphold their commitments, making the 2026 review a critical opportunity to strengthen the deal and protect American dairy producers. The letter also highlights the strong gains made with Mexico under USMCA and stresses the importance of preserving that progress.

“As a bipartisan group, we remain unified in our belief that the upcoming 2026 review of USMCA represents a critical opportunity to deliver to American dairy farmers, producers, and exporters the market access that was originally promised when the agreement entered into force,” wrote the Members. “USMCA raised the bar for what trade agreements could be, yet Canada has still failed to uphold its dairy commitments. This review is the appropriate mechanism to strengthen enforcement, close loopholes, and ensure that the benefits envisioned under the agreement are fully realized.”

The effort is strongly supported by U.S. dairy producers.

“USMCA raised the standard for what a trade agreement could be and promised new opportunities for U.S. dairy farmers,” said Gregg Doud, President and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation. “Unfortunately, the Canadian government has continued to evade its dairy trade obligations, and U.S. dairy farmers are not seeing the full benefits USMCA intended. We commend Representatives Tenney, DelBene, Wied, and Costa for championing this effort and working with the Administration to hold our trading partners accountable.”

“USMCA is the most important free trade agreement for the U.S. dairy industry, and it must be renewed, said Michael Dykes, President and CEO, International Dairy Foods Association. “But ongoing trade concerns with Canada and Mexico must also be rectified as the renewal is being considered. Collaboration between Congress and the Administration is critical to maintain the agreement’s meaningful progress and finally deliver the market access promised to U.S. dairy exporters. IDFA applauds this proactive approach by Members of Congress to help ensure that the review process results in a stronger, fairer USMCA.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/03/jayapal-casar-demand-action-in-wake-of-worsening-human-rights-crisis-in-pakistan/,"Jayapal, Casar Demand Action in Wake of Worsening Human Rights Crisis in Pakistan",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Greg Casar (TX-35) today led 42 Members of Congress in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging the administration to take concrete action to hold Pakistan’s military accountable and call for the release of political prisoners.

“In recent years, U.S. citizens and residents who have spoken out against authoritarian abuses in Pakistan have faced threats, intimidation, and harassment — often extending to their families in Pakistan,” wrote the Members. “These tactics include arbitrary detentions, coercion, and retaliatory violence, targeting diaspora individuals and their relatives. These actions infringe upon the right to freedom of expression […], further, they set a dangerous precedent for foreign interference on U.S. soil.”

As Pakistan faces an escalating crisis of authoritarianism, democratic institutions have been dismantled, and opposition leaders have been held without charge and denied fair trials. Pakistanis have been arrested for social media posts, and those living in other countries, including the United States, have been threatened or had their family threatened for exercising their right to free speech. The letter calls for real steps to be taken to address these injustices.

“We urge you to swiftly impose targeted measures, including visa bans and asset freezes, against officials responsible for transnational repression, widespread human rights violations, and systematic repression in Pakistan,” continued the Members. “We have called out transnational repression in other countries before and will continue to do so; the same principled approach must be applied here.”

The full letter can be read here.

The letter was signed by Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Herbert Conaway (NJ-03), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), John Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Richard Neal (MA-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Marc Veasey (TX-33), James Walkinshaw (VA-11), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/03/jayapal-smith-introduce-legislation-to-end-inhumane-immigration-detention-conditions/,"Jayapal, Smith Introduce Legislation to End Inhumane Immigration Detention Conditions",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Adam Smith (WA-09) are today introducing the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act, legislation to enact guardrails and oversight on immigration detention, and to ensure civil and human rights are protected.

“Under the Trump Administration, we have seen a shocking surge in the detention of people who have committed no crimes being locked up in increasingly horrifying conditions,” said Jayapal. “People are being held in squalor, largely in private, for-profit detention facilities, all to pad the bottom lines of prison corporations that donate to Donald Trump and Republicans. As Trump has struck down legal pathways and made it nearly impossible to come to or stay in this country, even for those who have been here for decades, this will only continue to get worse. We must pass this legislation to protect dignity and civil rights in America.”

“We are witnessing appalling conditions for immigration detention and a clear disregard for basic human rights,” said Smith. “No one should be subjected to overcrowded cells, denied medical care, or held in facilities that profit off of human suffering. This legislation establishes the oversight and guardrails needed to end these abuses and ensure that people are treated with dignity.”

Since President Trump returned to office, the use of immigration detention has skyrocketed to unprecedented levels, with over 66,000 people detained. During that period of time, 23 people have died in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. Nearly 73 percent of those detained have no criminal convictions, and many of those with convictions have only minor offenses, including traffic violations.

Detained people in these facilities are being held in inhumane living conditions, with reports of overcrowding forcing 35 men to share one toilet and sleep head to toe on concrete floors, of people being served only a cup of rice a day or rotting food, and of people having their medications withheld or being denied necessary medical care. Further, the Trump Administration has restarted the practice of detaining families and children, which has long been criticized as unsafe and inflicting irreversible harm on children.

This is while the Trump Administration has blocked Congressional oversight, despite death reports that do not line up with autopsy reports. In the case of Chaofeng Ge, ICE stated that he died by suicide, while his attorney alleges he was found with his hands and feet tied.

The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act would:

Repeal mandatory detention;

Prohibit the detention of families and children in family detention;

Create a presumption of release and impose a higher burden of proof to detain primary caregivers and vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, survivors of torture or gender-based violence, people with serious mental or physical illness or disability, LGBTQ individuals, asylum seekers, and people over age 60;

Phase out the use of private detention facilities and jails over a three-year period;

Require DHS to establish civil detention standards that provide, at minimum, the level of protection in the American Bar Association’s Civil Immigration Detention Standards;

Mandate the DHS Inspector General to conduct unannounced inspections with meaningful penalties for failure to comply with standards; and

Require DHS to admit Members of Congress to detention facilities for unannounced inspections.

“The reintroduction of the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act could not come at a more urgent moment,” said Haddy Gassama, Senior Policy Counsel at the ACLU. “We are witnessing an unprecedented expansion of the immigration detention system, with billions of taxpayer dollars being funneled into the hands of private prison corporations, profiteers who are building and operating abusive detention facilities, while deaths in custody and other egregious abuses reach record levels. These are not abstract policy failures; they are the lived realities of the 66,000 people disappeared into an inhumane system that has long thrived on opacity, minimal oversight, and virtually no accountability.

“The reintroduction of the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act comes at a critical moment, as the harsh realities of immigration detention are no longer hidden but visible in every empty seat once occupied by a loved one sent to detention,” said Jennifer Ibañez Whitlock, Senior Policy Counsel at the National Immigration Law Center. “Real change will take time, but immigration detention is an urgent threat that demands immediate action. The National Immigration Law Center welcomes the re-introduction of this important bill and urges Congress to act quickly to secure its passage.”

“The National Immigrant Justice Center is grateful for members of Congress fighting for communities increasingly under attack, facing inhumane conditions in a system driven by private contractors profiting off the imprisonment of human beings,” said Jesse Franzblau, Associate Director of Policy, National Immigrant Justice Center. “The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act is pivotal legislation that works to end the private incentive to fill up prisons, fund communities and not cages, and combat impunity for the persistent human rights violations that occur everyday in immigration detention. This legislation is a guide for Congress working to dismantle walls and prisons and invest in an immigration system grounded in humanity.”

“Trump’s cruel mass detention and deportation agenda has reached a previously unimaginable scope and scale, skyrocketing the number of people in immigration detention,” said Setareh Ghandehari, Advocacy Director of Detention Watch Network. “In more than 200 detention facilities across the country ICE subjects people to medical neglect, overcrowding, horrendous conditions of confinement, and rampant transfers that disappear people into the detention system, sowing confusion and cutting people off from their loved ones and support networks. As the administration aggressively expands the detention system and puts people’s lives in jeopardy at a cost to all Americans, Congress must take immediate and decisive action to intervene. While this bill does not fully end the inhumane and unnecessary system of immigration detention, it takes a bold step forward by ending mandatory detention, ending privatized detention, enacting critical safeguards and reversing the trend of constant, unchecked growth.”

The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act is sponsored by Alma Adams (NC-12), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), André Carson (IN-07), Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Al Green (TX-09), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Pablo José Hernández (PR-At Large), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Mike Levin (CA-49), Ted W. Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).

The legislation is also endorsed by American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); Detention Watch Network; National Immigrant Justice Center; National Immigration Law Center; AFL-CIO; African Communities Together; African Human Rights Coalition; AFT; American Friends Service Committee (AFSC); American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA); Amica Center for Immigrant Rights ; Amnesty International USA; Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC; ASISTA Immigration Assistance; Bend the Arc: Jewish Action; CASA; Center for Constitutional Rights; Center for Gender & Refugee Studies; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Center for Victims of Torture; Church World Service; Communities United for Status & Protection (CUSP); Community Change Action; Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces; Congressional Progressive Caucus; Disability Law United; Fair Immigration Reform Movement (FIRM); Franciscan Action Network; Friends Committee on National Legislation ; Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees; Haitian Bridge Alliance; Human Rights First ; Immigrant Justice Network; Immigrant Legal Resource Center; Immigration Equality Action Fund; Indivisible; Just Detention International ; The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA); LatinoJustice PRLDEF; Make the Road States; Muslim Advocates; National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd; National Immigration Project; National Partnership for New Americans; National Religious Campaign Against Torture; NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; People’s Action Institute; Refugees International ; Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF); Social Workers for Immigration Justice; Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC); Southern Border Communities Coalition (SBCC); Tahirih Justice Center; UndocuBlack Network; UnidosUS; Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice; United Church of Christ; Vera Institute of Justice; Adhikaar for Human Rights and Social Justice; Ayuda; Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA); Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights; Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef); Immigration Services and Legal Advocacy (ISLA); JAMAAT – Jews and Muslims Ana Allies Acting Together; Miami Valley Immigration Coalition; Northwest Immigrant Rights Project; OneAmerica; Promise Arizona; Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network; and Services, Immigrant Rights and Education Network (SIREN).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/02/budget-democrats-demand-vought-testify-before-committee/,Budget Democrats Demand Vought Testify Before Committee,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, led all Committee Democrats in sending a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought demanding his immediate testimony before the Committee. The request follows the Committee’s November 18 hearing, where Chairman Jodey Arrington publicly agreed with Ranking Member Boyle that Director Vought must appear.

“As you continue to disregard the law and withhold essential resources from communities across the country, you owe this Committee an explanation for why you believe you possess such authority,” wrote Ranking Member Boyle and Committee Democrats.

“If you fail to appear before this Committee before the end of the year, this will be the only Administration in the last 50 years to not send the OMB Director — a basic standard you yourself met during President Trump’s first Administration (appearing in both 2019 and 2020),” the letter continues. “If you disagree with both Chairman Arrington and Budget Democrats it will make one point unmistakably clear: you know you cannot defend an extreme agenda that is driving up costs, weakening the labor market, and inflicting real economic harm on the American people.” Read the full letter to OMB Director Vought here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/12/02/jayapal-markey-clarke-lee-reintroduce-ai-civil-rights-act-to-eliminate-ai-discrimination-and-enact-guardrails-on-use-of-algorithms-in-decisions-impacting-peoples-rights-civil-li/,"Jayapal, Markey, Clarke, Lee Reintroduce AI Civil Rights Act to Eliminate AI Discrimination and Enact Guardrails on Use of Algorithms in Decisions Impacting People’s Rights, Civil Liberties, Livelihoods",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington (December 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Representative Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, held a press conference today to reintroduce their Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act, comprehensive legislation to prevent companies from using biased and discriminatory AI-powered algorithms to help make critical decisions in Americans’ lives, ensure algorithms are tested before and after deployment, and increase transparency of complex algorithms used for critical decisions.

The legislation is co-led in the House by Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Summer Lee (PA-12), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Representatives Wesley Bell (MO-01), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04).

“We must address AI-powered bias and discrimination in the AI age,” said Senator Markey. “Under the AI Civil Rights Act, America would show leadership in AI—not just technological leadership, but moral leadership. We cannot abandon our principles in reckless pursuit of technological superiority. Otherwise, we risk building a future where innovation races ahead, but justice falls behind. I am grateful for Congresswomen Clarke, Pressley, Jayapal, and Lee for their partnership on the AI Civil Rights Act. We will not allow for AI to stand for accelerating injustice.”

“The AI Civil Rights Act represents a bold new front in our ongoing battle to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of every American. From developers to deployers, this legislation will place strict, strong, and unambiguous guardrails on the creation and use of artificial intelligence. I am deeply grateful to Senator Ed Markey for his steadfast leadership in introducing this critical bill. Together, we are making it very clear that innovation must never come at the expense of civil rights or justice,” said Rep. Clarke.

“As AI innovation grows, it is incumbent on us all to prioritize the safety, rights, and opportunity of all people—especially the Black, brown, and marginalized communities who disproportionately bear the burden of biased and discriminatory systems,” said Rep. Pressley. “We cannot allow AI to be the latest chapter in America’s history of exploiting marginalized people. That is why the AI Civil Rights Act is necessary—to invest in an approach rooted in equity that safeguards all of our civil rights and liberties.”

“This legislation comes at an inflection point for our country. Artificial intelligence has become a part of our everyday lives and grown into a projected $244 billion industry. A major risk of this new technology is the biases and discrimination that are built into algorithms – denying people housing or jobs based on race or gender. Our bill would place critical guardrails to ensure that the technologies of the future do not harden the injustices of the past,” said Rep. Jayapal.

“I represent neighborhoods that know what it feels like to be overpoliced, underinvested, and overlooked. If artificial intelligence is shaping people’s lives, then we must mitigate the harm it causes. This legislation puts up the necessary guardrails in an age of disinformation and misinformation. I’m grateful to Representatives Yvette Clarke, Pramila Jayapal, and Ayanna Pressley for co-leading this effort and for Senator Ed Markey for his partnership on this bill. We can and should be innovative with our technology, but never at the cost of our civil rights,” said Rep. Lee.

“The Lawyers’ Committee is proud to work in partnership with Senator Markey, Representatives Yvette Clarke, Summer Lee, Ayanna Pressley, and Pramila Jayapal as they introduce the AI Civil Rights Act to help ensure that AI systems are fair and equitable, as they become a large part of our daily lives. Most AI tools are built using data that reflects generations of racial discrimination, redlining, and segregation. Algorithms built on information about a troubled past can create new models that replicate these traumas as if they should be the norm for the future. So, increased transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of these technologies are critical steps for combating algorithmic bias. The Lawyers’ Committee has been on the front lines of this issue, litigating in the courts and leading policy debates focused on the impacts and opportunities of emerging technology for Black people and other communities of color. We all deserve technology that works for us, not against us. Adopting appropriate human-centered guardrails is both logical and a critical need. We know that with fierce defenders of civil rights and democracy in Congress like the sponsors and co-sponsors of the AI Civil Rights Act, we can make that ambition a reality,” said Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.

“Technologies, including AI systems, are only innovative if they help people. AI should be a tool that works for all of us, no matter where we come from, the color of our skin, our age, or how much money we have. But every day, qualified people are unjustly locked out of jobs, housing, education opportunities, and health care, or are wrongly jailed or imprisoned because of AI systems that discriminate. AI is powerful, so when it discriminates it can supercharge bias,” said Maya Wiley, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. “The AI Civil Rights Act offers a way forward towards fairness and accountability by helping us see how AI is working, ensuring better accuracy, and holding companies that create and use AI accountable for protecting our rights. We are grateful for Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke’s commitment to creating a strong pro-civil rights federal standard that ensures we can all reap the benefits of the AI revolution.”

“With corporations increasingly using AI systems to hire, fire, surveil, and make disciplinary decisions, workers need common-sense civil rights protections. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act introduced by Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke will do just that. It establishes critical guardrails to prevent AI discrimination, requires transparency from corporations around how they use AI, and holds corporations accountable when their AI systems perpetuate bias. This bill will be helpful in the labor movement’s ongoing fight to make sure that AI benefits workers instead of harming their jobs, rights, and freedoms,” said Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy at the AFL-CIO.

“The AI Civil Rights Act is the bold, innovative policy we need today to ensure a just tomorrow for us all. The premise is simple: the AI tools and systems used at the most critical decision points in our lives – mediating our access to homes, employment, healthcare, and opportunities –should be demonstrated to be accessible and fair before being unleashed on the American public. With this technologically sophisticated bill, anchored in enduring American commitments to freedom, Senator Markey ushers in a new day for civil rights and digital equity,” said Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress, and former Acting Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

“AI is shaping access to opportunity across the country. ‘Black box’ systems make decisions about who gets a loan, receives a job offer, or is eligible for parole, often with little understanding of how those decisions are made. The AI Civil Rights Act makes sure that AI systems are transparent and give everyone a fair chance to compete,” said Cody Venzke, Senior Policy Counsel, American Civil Liberties Union.

“Artificial intelligence is fast becoming a part of everyday life, impacting all of our major decisions from housing and employment to education and healthcare. We thank Senators Markey and Booker, and Representative Clarke, for their proactive leadership in safeguarding our civil rights. The AI Civil Rights Act ensures that AI technologies do not reinforce existing inequalities, and instead contribute to a more just and equitable society,” said the National Urban League.

The AI Civil Rights Act is endorsed by the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the AFL-CIO, National Urban League, Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress and former Acting Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Sam Levine, Former Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, A Better Balance, Access Now, ACLU MA, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Brennan Center for Justice, Center for AI and Digital Policy, Center for Digital Democracy, Color of Change, Common Cause, Common Sense, Communications Workers of America, Deaf Equality, Demand Progress, Economic Policy Institute, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), Fight for the Future, Free Press Action, Hearing Loss Association of America, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, InnovateEDU, Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Investor Alliance for Human Rights, Japanese American Citizens League, Justice in Aging, NAACP, National Action Network, National Association of Consumer Advocates, National Education Association, National Housing Law Project, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New America’s Open Technology Institute, Open MIC, Oxfam America, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Seventh Generation Interfaith Coalition for Responsible Investment, Sojourners, The National Alliance to End Homelessness, The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC), The NYU Policing Project, The Trevor Project, The Value Alliance, UnidosUS, United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry, United Steelworkers, Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), Youth Power Project, Third Act , LGBT Tech, Consumer Federation of America, Movement Advancement Project , League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), The Loop Lab / The Hope Group, National Partnership for Women & Families, and Kapor Center Advocacy.

A full list of endorsement statements is available HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4064,Larsen Releases Statement on Trump Administration Changes to Immigration Processes,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the Trump administration announced changes to immigration processes:

“Refugees and humanitarian nonprofits that support refugees should not be punished because of the actions of one violent person.

“I supported the establishment of World Relief’s Whatcom County office and I continue to support their work. Since 2021, World Relief has helped resettle more than 800 people in the area, including individuals who helped protect American troops in Afghanistan. World Relief is a critical organization that gives families who have faced severe hardship the opportunity to contribute to our communities and pursue the American dream.

“People fleeing violence to live in the United States deserve due process and a fair chance.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4066,"Larsen, Owens Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support World Cup Host City Transportation",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Representative Burgess Owens (R-UT-04) introduced the Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act to authorize $50 million in funding each year to improve transportation infrastructure in the cities hosting next year’s—and future—Olympic and World Cup games.

“USMNT’s success on the field is inevitable, and this bipartisan bill makes sure the United States succeeds off the field, too,” Rep. Larsen said. “The World Cup needs world-class infrastructure to ensure teams and their fans can safely travel to and from every game. That’s why we’re unlocking millions of dollars in funding for host cities—like Seattle in my home state—to improve their transportation infrastructure before the opening whistle.”

“As the host of the 2002 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Utah knows how to welcome the world, and we’re gearing up to do it again in 2034,” Rep. Owens said. “I’m proud to be Utah’s top advocate on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and to co-lead this effort to give host cities across America the dependable federal partner they need while preparing to host major international sporting events like the Olympics and World Cup. This support strengthens transportation planning, boosts local collaboration, and ensures the United States is ready to shine on the global stage.”

Legislation Background

Funds authorized by this legislation can be used to help host cities prepare their transit routes, roads, sidewalks and other transportation infrastructure for multiday international sporting events, including the FIFA Women’s and Men’s World Cups, the Olympics, Paralympics and Special Olympics. Hosting a single World Cup match can cost cities roughly $100 to $200 million. Under this legislation, cities would be eligible for up to $10 million per event per year. To learn more, click here.

This legislation is a House companion to the identically named bill introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS).

World Cup Background

The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Seventy-eight games will be played in the United States across 11 host cities: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and New Jersey, Philadelphia, Seattle and the San Francisco Bay Area. For the 2022 World Cup, Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) estimated its television viewership at 2.7 billion people.

This Friday, December 5th, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will host the FIFA 2026 World Cup Final Draw in Washington, D.C.

For more information about the 2026 World Cup, click here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-strengthen-urban-canals,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Urban Canals,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Urban Canal Modernization Act alongside Reps. Mike Simpson (R-ID), Adam Gray (D-CA), and Russ Fulcher (R-ID) to help the Bureau of Reclamation repair urban canals of concern.

""Urban canal maintenance is an issue across the country, but especially in Grant County, Washington,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""The Bureau of Reclamation’s canals are in dire need of repairs, and the surrounding communities who rely on them would be at risk if they were to fail. This legislation gives local authorities additional resources to manage these critical pieces of infrastructure while protecting the people and property around canals of concern. I strongly support this bill and thank Rep. Simpson for again leading this important effort.""

Rep. Simpson said, ""We must address urban canal repairs to protect Idahoans and Westerners’ way of life. The substantial urban growth around irrigation canals has created challenges and poses a threat to communities nearby. It’s well past time we act on these concerns. The Urban Canal Modernization Act does just that by maintaining safety, expanding accessibility, and providing additional tools to ensure these crucial repairs get completed.""

Rep. Gray said, ""While California’s population has more than doubled since the mid-20th century, our water capacity hasn’t expanded to meet the needs of our communities. The federal government must invest in our existing water systems to reduce costs on water users and our farmers. The bipartisan Urban Canal Modernization Act would rebuild crumbling, outdated water infrastructure in the Valley to bring us into the 21st century.""

Rep. Fulcher said, ""Urban canals are vital to agricultural, irrigation, and the water needs of our communities. Yet much of this critical infrastructure—some of it more than a century old—is in urgent need of repair. The Urban Canals Modernization Act is a common-sense solution to help address these challenges and ensure our canals in Idaho and across the country get the updates they need. I am proud to be a primary co-sponsor.""

This legislation allows the Bureau of Reclamation to authorize a 35 percent non-reimbursable cost share to help repair and rehabilitate urban canals through areas that would cause significant property damage or possible loss of life if the canal were to fail.

See full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-calls-faa-review-inslees-horse-heaven-hills-wind-farm,Newhouse Calls for FAA Review of Inslee's Horse Heaven Hills Wind Farm,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administrator (FAA) Bryan Bedford requesting a re-examination of a previous determination on the Horse Heaven Hill Wind Project's potential hazardous impact on airspace in the region.

""I share the concerns of the residents in the Tri-Cities with the proposed wind project because of potential devasting impacts to the airspace. It includes commercial flights to PSC, Department of Defense military training routes, medivac flights from Oregon to the area’s only level II trauma center, and the utilization of air tankers for aerial firefighting. This project adds unnecessary and significant risks to aviation that need to be recognized and considered,"" Rep. Newhouse wrote in the letter.

Newhouse added, ""Unfortunately, former Governor Jay Inslee ignored these potential impacts to air operations and stakeholder concerns when he expediently permitted this project...There remains a great deal of concern about its impact on safe and reliable air operations. I believe a rigorous re-examination of the prior determination of no hazard is essential to properly and accurately assess this project’s impact on the community.""

In November 2024, Former Governor Jay Inslee approved a 24-mile-long wind farm on the Horse Heaven Hills in Benton County, WA. The project has been met with staunch opposition from local residents, state legislators, and tribal communities.

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schrier-introduces-legislation-support-farmers-conservation,"Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Legislation to Support Farmers, Conservation Efforts",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) introduced the Partnerships for Agricultural Climate Action (PACA) Act of 2025. This bill would scale and replicate Washington state’s bipartisan Sustainable Farms and Fields program, which supports farmers by incentivizing voluntary conservation practices, enhancing producer innovation and viability, and enabling locally led climate action.

""Our farmers play an integral role in our community here in Washington state, influencing our culture, economy, and environment,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “It is our responsibility to support our agricultural community, particularly as they face growing challenges posed by climate change. That's why I'm proud to introduce the PACA Act to help producers here in the Eighth District and across the country voluntarily strengthen their climate resiliency, contribute to climate solutions, stay in business, and improve their bottom line.""

“The vast majority of farms in Washington state are operated by small farmers, who need support as they prioritize conservation and sustainability while remaining profitable,” said Congresswoman Strickland. “The Partnerships for Agricultural Climate Action Act prioritizes funding for climate-resilient innovative crops from low-income and minority farmers.”

Beyond scaling a successful state agriculture model, this bill allows farmers to best utilize their land and implement regionally relevant agricultural practices. Farmers, trusted partners, and state and Tribal governments can use PACA grants to support climate change adaptation and mitigation that best fits their land and circumstances.

The Partnerships for Agricultural Climate Action (PACA) Act of 2025 will:

Establish a new subprogram under USDA’s existing Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) for local partners, States, and Tribes to improve and expedite resource access for producers who are reducing emissions, enhancing soil carbon storage, and improving resilience to extreme weather.

Enable local, State, and Tribal entities and partnerships to direct climate action in ways that are regionally relevant and appropriate for local agricultural operations.

Support first-time, low-income, and minority farmers by providing technical and financial assistance.

Ultimately, make it easier and more affordable for farmers and ranchers to implement climate-smart practices that are regionally relevant.

“The Washington State Conservation Commission thanks Representative Schrier for her commitment to creating opportunities for farmers and ranchers to voluntarily adopt climate-smart practices,” said Washington State Conservation Commission Executive Director James Thompson. “Through experience with our Sustainable Farms and Fields program, we know producers in Washington are adopting creative solutions to mitigate climate change impacts, resulting in increased resiliency to drought, flood, and fire while supporting long-term viability. The PACA Act of 2025 would scale this proven approach, bringing much-needed resources to agricultural producers across the country.”

“The agriculture sector is often positioned as a climate adversary, but many farmers, ranchers, foresters, and rural communities across the country have a deep understanding of how to steward their land sustainably,” said Mary Olive, Interim Director of Policy at Carbon180. “The Partnerships for Agricultural Climate Action Act taps into the strengths of states, Tribes, conservation districts, and farmer cooperatives to leverage local knowledge, build resilience to extreme weather, and scale up climate-smart practices that sequester carbon and reduce emissions.”

“The Partnerships for Agricultural Climate Action Act, like Washington State's Sustainable Farms and Fields Program, will incentivize farmers to sequester carbon and improve soil health, reduce air pollution and decrease their operating costs - it's a complete win for everyone,"" said Doug Ray, Ph.D. Carbon Washington Board Chair.

""Washington's potato growers are on the front lines of adapting to a changing climate and global market,” said Geordy Greene, Director of Government Affairs for the Washington State Potato Commission. “Legislation like PACA gives growers practical tools—not mandates—to stay competitive, protect yields, and invest in smarter, more resilient production. It's a win for growers, consumers, and Washington's ag economy.""

This legislation is supported by the Washington State Conservation Commission, Carbon180, Carbon Washington, the Washington State Potato Commission, the Washington Association of Wheat Growers, and the Washington Farm Bureau.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4063,Larsen Releases Statement on Shooting in D.C.,2025-11-27,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement:

“I condemn the senseless violence committed in Washington D.C. against two brave National Guard members. I support local and federal law enforcement efforts to hold the shooter accountable. My thoughts are with the family of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, and with Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe as he fights for his life.""

###

Larsen Fights Drug Trafficking, Funds Public Safety and Addiction Recovery

February 10, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen and Colleagues Secure Reinstatement of Addiction and Mental Health Funding

January 15, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen Releases Statement on the Protests in Los Angeles

June 11, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases

Larsen Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Drug Trafficking in Tribal Communities

June 5, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4062,Larsen Releases Statement on Cancellation of Constellation-class Frigate Program,2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after the Navy announced the cancellation of the Constellation-class frigate program:

“I am disappointed to see the Administration abandon the Constellation-class frigate program, which would have a significant impact on the future of the Navy.

""Naval Station Everett (NSE), which is located in a deep water port with proximity to the Indo-Pacific, will compete aggressively to be the homeport for new Navy missions. A strong and growing NSE will create local jobs that have concrete impacts in the communities I represent – groceries on the table, school supplies in backpacks, gas in minivans and more economic activity that has ripple effects on other local businesses and workers.

""This decision demands transparency and a clear plan for filling the capability gap left by the frigate program’s cancellation. I will keep fighting for a new class of smaller surface combatant ships and the small shipyards we need to modernize and strengthen the Navy’s fleet. The Navy will need every available pier in order to reach its shipbuilding goals.

""I will continue to ensure that decisions about ship homeporting sustain jobs for Northwest Washington and keep our country safe. Northwest Washington has always answered the call to serve, and I will hold the Navy and the Administration accountable to do the same by investing in the fleet, in the workforce, and in the future of Naval Station Everett.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-daines-urge-house-leadership-pass-legislation-build-more,"Newhouse, Daines Urge House Leadership to Pass Legislation to Build More Hydropower",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) sent a letter to Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise urging swift passage of their “Build More Hydro” bill - S. 1020/H.R. 2072.

""We write to you to urge the passage of S.1020 (H.R. 2072), our ‘Build More Hydro’ bill, a bipartisan bill that authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend construction deadlines for critical hydropower projects nationwide. On July 9, 2025, S.1020 passed the Senate by unanimous consent and the House received the bill on August 1, 2025, where it remains held at the desk awaiting action.

If S. 1020 is not enacted, 37 unconstructed, FERC-licensed hydropower projects across 15 states, representing more than 2.6GW of baseload power and $6.5 billion in investment, are at risk of termination…

…Since the introduction of this bill, approximately 100MW of hydropower has been put on hold with an additional 36MW forced into limbo by the end of the year because of congressional inaction. Hydropower supplies baseload electricity to over 30 million homes, provides 96% of utility-scale energy storage, and remains vital to flood control, water storage, irrigation, and grid reliability services…

Losing these projects would undermine grid reliability at a time when we can least afford it. Advancing S.1020 before the end of the year is an essential step to protect American energy security, ensure reliable power to communities across the nation and prevent the loss of billions in investment,"" Newhouse and Daines wrote in the letter.

Senator Daines’s S. 1020, which passed the U.S. Senate with unanimous consent in July 2025, would extend construction deadlines for critical hydropower projects nationwide and increase American energy production. Rep. Newhouse introduced the companion legislation, H.R. 2072, earlier this year.

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-strengthen-us-timber-industry,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Timber Industry,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Supporting American Wood and Mill Infrastructure with Loans for Longevity (SAWMILL) Act alongside Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) to permanently reauthorize the Timber Production Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program (TPEP).

""Washington State’s timber industry supplies our region with good paying jobs, helps reduce the risk of wildfires, and is a tool in responsibly managing our forests,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""The SAWMILL Act gives timber mills the ability to grow their operations and support rural communities who stand to benefit even more from a strong, local timber industry. As we work in Congress on a wide range of policies to protect our forests, this legislation is a positive step we can take to make sure the federal government is making it easier for the industry to be successful here at home.""

Rep. Sewell said, ""Alabama’s rural landowners and forestry sector too often can’t access sawmills and other wood processing infrastructure which increase property values and advance the mission of forestry conservation. I am proud to join Rep. Newhouse in introducing the SAWMILL Act, which will bring critical infrastructure to rural communities, expand access to new markets for rural landowners, and encourage conservation of the environment.""

TPEP offers low-interest, long-term loans for timber and wood processing companies to invest in their facilities and equipment, with a particular emphasis on supporting timber mills processing hazardous fuels. This simultaneously boosts rural economies and reduces wildfire risk on public lands.

The legislation is supported by the American Wood Council, American Forests, and The Lumber Manufactory (TLM).

Jackson Morrill, President and CEO, American Wood Council, said, ""Our nation’s sawmills and wood processing facilities directly employ nearly half a million Americans, with individual mills serving as economic drivers in their communities. When a mill closes, the whole community suffers, and some unfortunately never recover. We applaud Representatives Newhouse and Sewell for introducing the SAWMILL Act to help protect U.S. wood product manufacturing and rural jobs.""

Rebecca Turner, Chief Policy and Partnerships Officer, American Forests, said, ""For generations, sawmills have been economic engines of rural America. Now, the SAWMILL Act would support sawmills that are stepping up to restore our forests. Thanks to the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Newhouse and Sewell, the SAWMILL Act is a win-win-win — saving tax-payer dollars, promoting healthy forests, and helping rural communities thrive.""

Michael Grasso, CEO, TLM, said, ""The Lumber Manufactory (TLM) applauds Congressman Newhouse and Congresswoman Sewell for introducing The SAWMILL Act in the House of Representatives, which will permanently reauthorize the Timber Production Expansion Loan Guarantee Program (TPEP). TPEP is a vital tool to promote the revitalization of our country’s sawmill and wood processing infrastructure, while also supporting healthy forest management, wildland fire mitigation, and stimulating economic opportunity across rural America. In addition, the SAWMILL Act directly addresses the objectives outlined in the Executive Order for Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production.""

Senators Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

See full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-congresswoman-schrier-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-cut-bureaucratic,"ICYMI: Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Cut Bureaucratic Red Tape, Support Lifesaving Blood Centers",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) and Congressman Tony Wied (WI-08) introduced the BLOOD Centers Act, a bipartisan bill to cut onerous administrative requirements placed on blood centers to help ensure that hospitals have a sufficient blood supply to meet patient needs. Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) was also an original cosponsor.

""As a doctor, I know that donated blood products save lives in dire situations,"" said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “Redundant regulation and red tape make it harder for blood centers to get blood products where they are needed, when they are needed. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation to reduce unnecessary administrative hurdles without compromising patient safety.""

“At a time when our nation’s blood supply has reached a critical low, we must do everything we can to cut through red tape to ensure that people who are willing to donate can do so easily and swiftly,” said Congressman Wied. “That is why I am proud to introduce the bipartisan BLOOD Centers Act to expedite the ability of blood centers to open new locations and collect life-saving blood for those who need it.”

Under current Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, blood centers must report changes, including the addition of a new fixed site, to their approved biologics license applications (BLA). This process can include additional steps, further delaying federal approval and preventing blood centers from expanding their operations. Congresswoman Schrier’s bill addresses this issue by instructing the FDA to create an expedited licensure process following passage of the legislation. This will bring much-needed efficiency improvements to the process while maintaining rigorous safety standards.

“Government red tape and delays can cost lives when every drop counts,” said Congressman Tiffany. “The BLOOD Centers Act streamlines approvals and requires the FDA to act within 30 days so lifesaving donations can reach patients quicker.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4058,Larsen Secures More than $50 Million for Northwest Washington Transit Agencies,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"This week, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded more than $50 million in grant funding to four Northwest Washington transit agencies to transition to low emission buses, improve service reliability and invest in paratransit services.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver cleaner and greener bus service to Northwest Washington,” said Larsen, the lead Democrat on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. “This critical funding will allow local transit agencies to reduce carbon emissions and maintenance costs while ensuring riders continue to have reliable, accessible transportation options.”

The grant funding comes from FTA’s Low- or No-Emission Vehicle and Buses and Bus Facilities initiatives. As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Bus Caucus, Rep. Larsen has long worked to increase federal funding for bus transit, including low-emission buses. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invested $5.6 billion through Fiscal Year 2026 in the Low-No Program – more than six times greater than the previous five years of funding combined – and nearly $2 billion in Buses and Bus Facilities.

Grants for Local Transit Agencies

Northwest Washington transit agencies were awarded more than $50 million in grant funding:

What Transit Agencies are Saying

Northwest Washington transit agencies celebrated the grant funding and highlighted their importance to local communities and commuters.

“This is great news,” said Everett Transit Director Mike Schmieder. “The $10.07 million awarded to Everett Transit by the FTA will support the purchase of nine diesel-electric hybrid buses and ensure the continued delivery of safe, clean, and reliable transit service in our community. We appreciate our community partners, as well as U.S. Reps. Rick Larsen and Suzan DelBene, U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, and Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers in helping secure this invaluable funding.”

“Skagit Transit is grateful to Congressman Larsen for his leadership in securing this critical federal investment. These new vehicles will replace aging buses, expand our capacity, and allow us to increase service to meet growing demand across Skagit County,” said Skagit Transit CEO Crystle Stidham. “This grant funding strengthens regional connections, improves reliability for riders, and fuels local job and economic growth.”

“We are grateful for Congressman Larsen’s support securing this critical Federal Transit Administration funding,” said Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz. “Adding new hybrid electric buses to Community Transit’s fleet will help us keep our region’s people, economy and environmental sustainability moving in the right direction.”

“WTA is thankful for this opportunity to improve the safety and reliability of our service while also lowering our carbon emissions,” said Whatcom Transportation Authority Board Chairperson and Ferndale City Council Member Ali Hawkinson. “This funding represents an important win for our riders, for our entire community, and for our environment.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4059,Larsen Fights to Extend Affordable Care Act Tax Credits,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after signing a discharge petition that will force a vote in the House of Representatives to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits if the petition reaches 218 signatories:

“Health care should be affordable and accessible for all. 26,000 people I represent depend on these critical ACA tax credits to afford medical care. If Republicans in Congress allow them to expire at the end of the year, 80,000 people in Washington state will be forced to go without health care.

“More uninsured people means higher health care costs for everyone and sicker family members, friends and neighbors. Because my Republican colleagues are refusing to hold a vote, too many hardworking people are facing the reality of choosing between going to the doctor, paying rent and feeding their kids.

“I will keep working alongside House Democrats to extend the ACA tax credits and make health care accessible and affordable.”

Rep. Larsen also joined Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03) and 57 of their Democratic colleagues in urging Speaker Mike Johnson to immediately hold a vote to extend ACA tax credits and prevent health care costs from skyrocketing for hardworking families.

The full letter to Speaker Johnson is available here and below.

The Honorable Mike Johnson

Speaker U.S. House of Representatives

H-232, The Capitol

Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Speaker Johnson,

We write to you once again about the urgent matter of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premiums and the enhanced premium tax credits (EPTCs) set to expire at the end of this year. For the past 50-plus days, you had kept the House of Representatives out of session while millions of Americans worry over how they’ll be able to pay their health care bills in 2026. Up to 24 million ACA enrollees are facing gross premium increases averaging 26 percent and actual monthly cost increases around 114 percent; some constituents have shared with us anticipated premium increases as high as 3,000 percent.

Many of the Americans that will be hit by these exorbitant costs live in congressional districts represented by Republicans. And a majority of members of the House – Democrats and Republicans – have made clear that these expiring EPTCs need to be addressed immediately. Ignoring this issue will be catastrophic to millions and runs counter to President Trump’s promise to lower costs for Americans.

In voting to reopen the federal government, Majority Leader John Thune has guaranteed a vote on extending these ACA EPTCs in the Senate. We respectfully demand you hold this same vote here in the House as soon as possible.

Families across this country – on both sides of the political spectrum – are counting on us to do something to mitigate rising health care costs. Inaction here will decimate millions of Americans’ budgets and force impossible decisions between receiving necessary care and other basic needs.

Please respond to us immediately with a date on which you will hold a vote on extending the ACA EPTCs. We look forward to working together to ensure Americans are protected from these disastrous cost increases.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4061,Larsen Releases Statement on Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement on ongoing peace talks between Ukraine and Russia:

""Putin started this war and his unprovoked aggression must not be rewarded. The Administration's proposed ‘peace plan' for Ukraine is a gift to Putin that asks Ukraine to sacrifice its land, military strength and future in NATO while asking Russia to sacrifice nothing. It is time for the Administration to get serious and work with Ukraine and our European allies to develop a real peace plan that restores Ukraine's borders and gives Ukrainians the freedom to choose their own leaders and future.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/democratic-doctors-caucus-chair-kim-schrier-democratic-physicians-lead-65,"Democratic Doctors Caucus Chair Kim Schrier, Democratic Physicians Lead 65 colleagues on Letter Slamming RFK Jr. for Changing CDC Website to Promote False Claim That Vaccines Cause Autism",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Kim Schrier (WA-08), Chair of the Democratic Doctors Caucus, along with her colleagues of the Democratic Doctors Caucus Ami Bera (CA-06), Herbert Conaway (NJ-03), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), led 65 other members to demand that HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. immediately correct the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s website after it was updated to promote the widely disproven and dangerous claim that vaccines may cause autism.

“As a pediatrician, I’ve dedicated my career to the health and well-being of children, and I know how important vaccinations are to keep them safe,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “I’ve taken care of children with some terrible infectious diseases, and no child should ever have to suffer from a vaccine preventable illness. RFK Jr.’s decision to spread fringe conspiracy theories and misinformation on the CDC’s official website is reckless. He’s scaring parents, undermining trust in the CDC, and putting children at risk.”

“We write to you regarding the alarming removal of scientific information refuting the link between vaccines and autism spectrum disorders (autism) from the Vaccine Safety page of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website on November 19. The installation of false claims, without CDC expert career staff knowledge according to reporting, regarding a false connection between autism and vaccines is a direct threat to our nation’s public health. Before your agency’s anti-vaccine propaganda appeared on the CDC’s Vaccine Safety webpage, the CDC webpage stated that studies have shown that there is “no link” between vaccines and developing autism and that “no links” have been found between any vaccine ingredients and the disorder, according to archived webpages,” the letter states.

The letter continues, “Your politicization of vaccines has made American families less safe, returns the U.S. to an era before mass vaccination prevented millions of infections, and will result in tragic deaths, particularly among children.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://strickland.house.gov/2025/11/21/strickland-leads-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-foster-youth-affected-by-the-opioid-crisis/,Strickland Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Support Foster Youth Affected by the Opioid Crisis,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Marilyn Strickland,S001159,strickland.house.gov,strickland,https://strickland.house.gov/category/press_release/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), a member of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth and the Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery Caucus, led the reintroduction of the Furthering Opioid Services, Training, and Education Resources (FOSTER) Act with Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). This bipartisan legislation will provide training and resources for foster and kinship caregivers to support children and parents affected by the opioid crisis.

“Far too often, children are the silent victims of the opioid crisis. Opioid use among parents can push at-risk children into an overloaded foster care system without sufficient resources. By introducing the FOSTER Act, we are calling on Congress to support foster children and caregivers affected by the opioid crisis,” said Rep. Strickland.

“Too many children are being drawn into foster and kinship care as a result of the opioid crisis, and the caregivers who step forward for them deserve the tools and training to meet this profound responsibility. Our bipartisan FOSTER Act provides that support through a whole-family approach that strengthens care, stability, and hope for children affected by parental substance use. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force, I am proud to work alongside Representative Strickland to advance this bipartisan legislation that will ensure at-risk children get the stability and care they deserve,” said Fitzpatrick.

BACKGROUND:

The FOSTER Act, would amend the 21st Century Cures Act to provide grants to states and localities providing child protective services to train staff and caregivers about the impact of opioid addiction on children under their care. The grants could be used for:

Foster care workforce recruitment and training on the effects of parental opioid use on children

Foster and adoptive parent education on the impact of opioids

Addiction treatment services for parents

The opioid epidemic has affected countless children and families across the United States, including children in foster care and the caregivers that support them. Parental drug abuse was a concern in 40% of out-of-home foster care placement cases. Congress must provide dedicated resources to support children in foster care affected by the opioid crisis and to support parents with substance use disorders working to maintain custody of their children.

Read the full bill text here.

U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/11/20/jayapal-hirono-jacobs-takano-commemorate-transgender-day-of-remembrance/,"Jayapal, Hirono, Jacobs, Takano Commemorate Transgender Day of Remembrance",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51), the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Equality Caucus’ Transgender Equality Task Force, Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Representative Mark Takano (CA-39), Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus, announced the introduction of a resolution commemorating November 20, 2025, as Transgender Day of Remembrance.

“As anti-transgender rhetoric and legislation have increased in the United States over recent years, unfortunately so has anti-transgender violence,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “Too many transgender people have been killed just for living as their true, authentic selves. On Transgender Day of Remembrance, this resolution stands as a symbol of the strength and resilience of the trans community and honors the lives of the trans people we have lost to violence. Trans lives matter, and our commitment to creating a just and equal society where everyone can thrive will never waver.”

“As anti-transgender hate continues to rise across the country, it is crucial that we do everything in our power to protect and support transgender and gender-nonconforming communities,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution to educate people about the discrimination and dangers that transgender communities face, as well as to honor the lives of transgender and gender-nonconforming people who were lost to violence. Transgender rights are human rights, and I’ll continue fighting so no one has to live in fear for simply existing as who they are.”

“Today we remember and honor the transgender lives stolen because of hate and neglect – but remembrance is not enough,” said Rep. Jacobs. “Transgender and gender non-conforming people – like everyone else – deserve to live free from violence, discrimination, and stigma. No one should lose their life for being who they are. President Trump has made targeting LGBTQ+ people, especially those in the transgender community, a centerpiece of his agenda, fueling discrimination that puts their lives at risk. This resolution serves as our commitment to ending this hateful agenda and protecting the trans community. Congress must ensure all transgender and gender non-conforming people are treated with dignity and respect here at home and around the world.”

“No one should ever live in fear because of who they are, yet far too many of our transgender siblings have been taken from us by acts of hate and violence,” said Rep. Mark Takano, Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. “I’m proud to lead this resolution recognizing Transgender Day of Remembrance alongside Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal and Sara Jacobs, leaders of our Transgender Equality Task Force, and our ally from Hawaii, Senator Mazie Hirono. This is more than just a resolution. It is a commitment to our transgender siblings lost to violence that we will never forget them nor waver in our fight to build a safer, better, and more loving world for the transgender community.”

Following the still-unsolved murder of Rita Hester, a transgender woman of color, Gwendolyn Ann Smith founded TDOR to honor Hester and other transgender people whose lives were lost to violence.

The TDOR resolution memorializes the lives of transgender people lost due to violence in the United States and around the world. Text of the full resolution can be found here.

The resolution is also sponsored by Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Andre Carson (IN-07), Troy A Carter Sr. (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Judy Chu (CA-28), Angie Craig (MN-02), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Valerie P. Foushee (NC-04), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY -10), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Henry C. (“Hank”) Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Ted W. Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Sarah McBride (DE-AL), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Scott Peters (CA-50), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Luz Rivas (CA-29), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).

It is also endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign and Advocates for Trans Equality.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/11/20/ranking-members-raskin-jayapal-durbin-and-padilla-secretaries-noem-rubio-and-kennedy-too-cowardly-to-defend-shocking-decision-to-abandon-refugees-unlawfully-dispatch-deputies-instead/,"Ranking Members Raskin, Jayapal, Durbin, and Padilla: Secretaries Noem, Rubio, and Kennedy Too Cowardly to Defend Shocking Decision to Abandon Refugees, Unlawfully Dispatch Deputies Instead",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (November 20, 2025)—Today, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, Sen. Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Sen. Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration, issued the following statement after Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. refused to meet their legal obligation to consult with Congress on the Administration’s refugee admissions plan—sending deputies to stage a charade consultation instead:

“51 days after the legal deadline, the Trump Administration today came to Capitol Hill in response to our monthslong bipartisan demands that they follow the law and consult with Congress on their refugee admissions plan.

“It is outrageous that Secretaries Noem, Rubio, and Kennedy were too cowardly to come before us and explain their shocking decision to abandon nearly 130,000 vetted, approved refugees facing persecution and violence abroad. Instead they sent their deputies, in brazen violation of the lawwhich explicitly requires a consultation by ‘Cabinet-level representatives of the President.’

“The Trump Secretaries ignored their legal obligations to face us because their policy is indefensible. It is impossible to defend leaving desperate families—men, women, and children who were promised a lifeline—twisting in the winds of global violence. It is impossible to justify a policy that abandons America’s historic commitment to offering safe harbor to the persecuted. Trump’s team has slashed refugee admissions to the lowest level in our nation’s history and reserved the bulk of the few remaining slots for white South African Afrikaners. They didn’t show up because their betrayal is unspeakable.

“The U.S. Refugee Resettlement program has always been a bipartisan matter of pride for our country, and a critically important tool in our toolbox for achieving multiple goals that are critically important to American interests. The destruction of the program will hurt our humanitarian and diplomatic efforts for decades to come.

“After months of evasion, diversion, and invoking the Republican shutdown as an alibi, the Administration thought they’d pacify us with more disrespect for the law. They were sorely mistaken.

“The Secretaries couldn’t be bothered to come to Congress today, but they should at least learn the route: they’ll be spending plenty of time here when Democrats retake the gavel.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4057,"Larsen Secures $2,165,000 for Community Projects in Island and San Juan Counties",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) secured a total of $2,165,000 in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding for three local projects in Island and San Juan counties. Since 2022, Larsen has secured nearly $64 million for 43 projects in Northwest Washington state through annual spending bills.

Larsen applauded the inclusion of earmarks in the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture spending bill and emphasized the importance of investing in local community projects.

“If you live in a rural part of Northwest Washington state, know that I am fighting for you,” said Larsen. “This $2.1 million for community projects is a great example of cooperation between congressional and local leaders that creates jobs, builds better infrastructure and improves vital services for folks in Island and San Juan counties.”

Larsen secured the following earmarks for Northwest Washington state communities:

What WA-02 Community Leaders and Stakeholders Are Saying

Island County Commissioner Melanie Bacon on the Recycling and Reuse Station: “Island County is deeply grateful to Representative Larsen for championing this critical project. This investment in a modern recycling and reuse facility protects local public health, improves environmental stewardship, and supports long-term population and economic growth. In addition to lowering costs for local ratepayers, the station will give our island community the resilient infrastructure it needs for the next generation.”

Lopez Food Center’s Board of Directors on Lopez Food Center: “The funding for the Lopez Food Center will help build a centralized facility with a commercial kitchen, food storage, space for local food sales, pop-ups and food events, a recovery café, and much more. It will also house the inter-island local food distributor, San Juan Food Hub, and create a communal farm stand with the support of high school students. The Lopez Food Center will also provide a new home for the Lopez Food Share, a food pantry that serves 399 households increasing access to healthy, nutritious food. We believe the Lopez Food Center will assure a thriving, fair and sustainable local food system and strong economy which are essential to a healthy, sustainable life here on Lopez Island.”

Orcas Senior Center Board of Directors Acting President Suzette Lamb on Orcas Senior Center: “On behalf of the Orcas Senior Center’s members, staff, and board, we are deeply grateful for the support and advocacy of Representative Larsen and his staff and the funding included for our facility in the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2026. This investment will allow us to replace the roof on our recently acquired building, safeguarding a vital community resource and strengthening our ability to offer inclusive activities, services, and programs that help Orcas residents connect, learn, and thrive.”

Larsen Continues to Advocate for Twelve Other Northwest Washington Projects

Earlier this year, Larsen requested funding for fifteen community projects in Northwest Washington state as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 spending bills. Larsen will continue to work with his congressional and local colleagues to advocate for the remaining twelve projects in upcoming spending bills.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4060,"Larsen Statement on Reports of Coast Guard Downgrading Swastikas, Nooses and Confederate Flags as Hate Symbols",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, released the following statement after the Washington Post reported that the United States Coast Guard plans to stop classifying the swastika, nooses, Confederate flags and other harmful iconography as a hate symbol:

“Lynching is a federal hate crime. The world defeated the Nazis in 1945. The debate on these symbols is over. They symbolize hate,” Rep. Larsen said. “Coast Guard: be better.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-introduces-legislation-fight-newborn-opioid-dependency,Newhouse Introduces Legislation to Fight Newborn Opioid Dependency,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the Maddie's Infant Recovery and Children's Legislative Emergency (MIRACLE) Act alongside Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-WA) and Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA) to study Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).

""As the opioid and drug epidemics spread through communities in Central Washington, and across the country, there is very little being done to address its impacts on the next generation,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""NAS is a critical condition that puts newborns in a situation they had no control over, with serious, lasting implications threatening their health early on. This legislation directs federal resources to expand our understanding of NAS, close gaps in research and data on how it affects babies, and ensure we are equipped to treat this condition through our federal healthcare system.""

Rep. Baumgartner said, ""As a father and a member of the Spokane community, I have seen the courage and hope that Maddie’s Place brings to families facing the unimaginable challenge of neonatal abstinence syndrome. Every child in Eastern Washington deserves a healthy start, yet too many newborns—through no fault of their own—begin life in pain because of the opioid crisis. The MIRACLE Act stands for compassion and common sense. It gives us essential data to better care for newborns in need, helps states like ours offer proven recovery nursery solutions, and empowers caregivers at Maddie’s Place and across America who provide grace and healing every day. I’m proud to champion real progress for families in Eastern Washington and help every child begin life with hope.""

Rep. Schrier said, ""As a pediatrician, I’ve seen the discomfort of newborns withdrawing from narcotic exposure, and as the incidence of NAS rises, we need more research into long term impacts. Children’s well-being has always been one of my top priorities. I’m proud to work with my Washington delegation colleague, Congressman Newhouse, to introduce this legislation that will further our understanding of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and potential treatment options for impacted newborns.""

This legislation directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct a study of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Specifically, it requires the Secretary to:

Conduct a national study on NAS prevalence, health outcomes, and service gaps.

Identify barriers to data collection and accuracy at the state level.

Evaluate care models at Pediatric Transitional Care Facilities (PTCFs), which provide wraparound care for infants and parents at far less Medicaid cost than the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

The MIRACLE Act will provide Congress and all 50 states with the data needed to shape evidence-based and cost-effective policies that address NAS nationwide.

The legislation is supported by Maddie’s Place, a nonprofit recovery nursery in Spokane, Washington, that provides free-standing, nurturing care for babies experiencing withdrawal due to prenatal substance exposure.

Shaun Cross, President, Maddie's Place, said, ""Within our national drug crisis is a much more sinister, silent crisis: the tens of thousands of substance exposed infants born each year in our communities. The MIRACLE Act will give these infants and their struggling parents a voice by seeking the data we don't have and raising awareness about the success stories coming out of a handful of clinics like Maddie's Place.""

Background

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) is a condition that affects newborns who receive opioids or addictive substances through the placenta during pregnancy. Babies have withdrawal symptoms during their first few days of life and typically remain in a neonatal intensive care unit until their body rids itself of the drug or substance in their systems. These symptoms can persist for months and cause lasting effects and risks as children grow.

The incidence of NAS has increased substantially in the past decade, and this has coincided with the reported increase in use of opiates among pregnant mothers, which includes those that are prescribed and other forms such as fentanyl.

The legislation is supported by Maddie’s Place, a nonprofit recovery nursery in Spokane, Washington, that provides free-standing, nurturing care for babies experiencing withdrawal due to prenatal substance exposure.

See full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-schrier-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-unlock-federal,Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Unlock Federal Resources for Drought-Resilient Water Infrastructure,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Kim Schrier (WA-08), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), John Garamendi (CA-03), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Jim Costa (CA-21), Vince Fong (CA-20), and Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the bipartisan Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Amendments of 2025 that will fund key water infrastructure projects that are used to mitigate drought and solve other pressing challenges that are facing Washington and other areas of the country.

“Our nation's water infrastructure is facing several challenges -- from conservation and storage to wastewater treatment -- that compromise access to this vital resource,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will fix our aging water infrastructure by empowering cities and towns throughout our country to make the infrastructure investments necessary to support our farmers and ensure that their respective communities have dependable drinking water.”

Congresswoman Schrier’s bill would improve WIFIA by extending funding for the program, expanding loan eligibility, and implementing other common-sense reforms. With Central Washington currently experiencing a severe drought and towns such as Cle Elum, Roslyn, and Ellensburg facing water restrictions, this bill would also unlock technical assistance and make more water projects in rural communities eligible for WIFIA financing. Specifically, the bill:

Broaden and restore WIFIA funding and financing eligibility to state entities and non-federal cost shares in federally involved projects. This includes state-led water storage projects, transferred works of the Bureau of Reclamation, and congressionally authorized Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects.

Authorize the use of collaborative project delivery methods for WIFIA projects, allowing more flexibility and reducing the time and cost of the project.

Allow certain federal water infrastructure loans to have maturity dates of up to 55 years.

Reauthorize the USACE WIFIA program through FY2029.

“Federal water projects are essential to our way of life here in Central Washington, but repairs, maintenance, and new project commencements have proven to be a challenge when it comes to federal funding,” said Congressman Newhouse. “This legislation is a huge step to help local water managers finance long-term projects, maintain our existing infrastructure, and make sure our rural communities have the clean water and irrigation they desperately rely on.”

“Climate change is no longer a problem for the future, it’s happening now,” said Congressman Garamendi. “That’s why we need every federal and state resource available to meet the West’s water supply needs and build a system capable of withstanding record-breaking droughts. This critical, bipartisan bill would unlock $11 billion in low-interest federal financing for western water projects, including modernizing California’s Central Valley Project. I thank Congresswoman Schrier for once again leading this legislation to upgrade water infrastructure across the West, and I look forward to helping her advance this critically important bill.”

""Much of our vital water storage infrastructure is in need of repair or maintenance, and we need to build new storage facilities to help maintain reliable and affordable water supplies,” said Congressman LaMalfa. “To ensure long-term success, we must make it easier, not harder, to get water projects approved, funded, and built. This legislation improves financing options, cuts red tape, and enables project designers and builders to collaborate, ensuring more localities have the chance to create and build the critical infrastructure they need, such as levees, treatment plants, and reservoirs.""

“Water is the lifeblood of our valley; therefore, we must continue to invest in our water infrastructure. We know that where water flows, food grows, and nowhere is that more evident than in the agricultural heartland of the San Joaquin Valley. Over 10-year periods, we have either too much water and flood conditions or too little water and drought conditions,” said Congressman Costa. “That is why I am proud to lead a bipartisan piece of legislation that includes my bill, the “Restoring WIFIA Eligibility Act.” This effort will help strengthen the tools needed to modernize our water systems and protect every drop of water possible.”

“Water is life in California’s Central Valley, and with growing water needs, we must act now to safeguard our water future,” said Congressman Fong. “As one of the nation’s largest agricultural-producing regions, my district urgently depends on a reliable, flexible water supply. I’m committed to accelerating the financing and delivery of modern water infrastructure projects to protect our families, farms, and communities. Strengthening WIFIA will allow rural communities like mine to have better access to this program, accelerating the delivery of modern water infrastructure.”

“Water infrastructure is critical to the health, safety, and wellbeing of our communities, but too often people don't think about it until it breaks,” said Congresswoman Davids. “By making low-interest federal funding available and creating new, innovative ways to execute these water projects, we’re helping local officials plan and save before disaster strikes. The Kansas Third has already taken advantage of these loans to repair and replace aging wastewater systems, and I look forward to making those opportunities available to more projects in our community.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/11/19/jayapal-warren-introduce-legislation-to-curb-corporate-influence-on-federal-regulation-restore-deference-to-experts/,"Jayapal, Warren Introduce Legislation to Curb Corporate Influence on Federal Regulation, Restore Deference to Experts",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (MA) are introducing the Experts Protect Effective Rules, Transparency, and Stability (EXPERTS) Act to re-establish public trust in the federal regulatory process by prioritizing transparency and elevating the voices of subject matter experts over those of corporations with profit-driven interests.

“Many Americans are taught in civics classes that Congress passes a law and that’s it, but the reality is that any major legislation enacted must also be implemented and enforced by the executive branch to become a reality,” said Jayapal. “We are seeing the Trump administration dismantle systems created to ensure that federal regulation prioritizes public safety. At a time when corporations and CEOs have outsized power, it is critical that we ensure that public interest is protected. This bill will level the playing field to ensure that laws passed actually work for the American people.

“Giant corporations and their armies of lobbyists shouldn’t get to manipulate how our laws are implemented,” said Senator Warren. “While Donald Trump keeps selling away influence over our government, we’re fighting to ensure the rules are being written to help working Americans, not corporate interests.”

The federal rulemaking process is how governmental agencies implement and enforce the law. Rulemaking creates essential regulations that carry out the goals of legislation addressing issues ranging from health care to workers’ rights. It requires agencies to give the public notice of proposed regulations and the opportunity to comment or provide feedback. But presently, industry-backed lobbyists hold more negotiating power in the regulatory process than the general public. They are able to schedule private meetings with regulators, fund sham scientific studies to submit with public comments, and misrepresent the negative impact of stricter regulatory oversight.

Last year, in their Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo ruling, the Supreme Court overturned the Chevron deference doctrine that required courts to respect the expertise of federal agencies in implementing laws passed by Congress. This doctrine has led to a broad range of protections for Americans, including reducing worker exposure to hazardous substances, limiting predatory credit card fees, and promoting clean air and water. The Loper Bright ruling gives courts greater leeway to overturn expertise-based policies for the benefit of the Trump Administration and corporations.

The EXPERTS Act would:

Codify Chevron Deference: Require courts to defer to agencies’ reasonable interpretations of their rules that Congress empowered them to issue in order to implement statutes.

Establish Rulemaking Transparency: Require a full disclosure of who is funding the scientific, economic, and technical studies submitted to agencies during the rulemaking process, mandate a public explanation for the withdrawal of rules, and require the public disclosure of any changes made to a regulatory proposal during the rulemaking process.

Eliminate Industry-Backed Delays to Rulemaking: Accelerate the rulemaking review process by excluding private parties from using the negotiated rulemaking process.

Restore the Time Limit for Legal Challenges: Reinstate a 6-year time limit for legal challenges to agency actions, with the clock starting when the action is finalized.

Empower the Public in the Rulemaking Process: Fine corporations that lie to the government about whether a public interest rule would cost their shareholders, establish an Office of the Public Advocate to serve as an advocate for public interests, and require the government to respond to citizen petitions.

“The EXPERTS Act is urgently needed to respond to the rampant deregulatory efforts happening now. The bill is a comprehensive blueprint for modernizing, improving, and strengthening the regulatory system to better protect the public. The EXPERTS Act would enhance our government’s ability to deliver results for workers, consumers, public health, and our environment. And it would increase participation so that people – not just big corporations – can weigh in on potential rules that affect them,” said Rachel Weintraub, Executive Director, Coalition for Sensible Safeguards (CSS). “For most of the last century, policy, scientific, and technical experts were in charge of writing the rules that protect American workers, consumers, families, and our environment – and it made all of us better off. Expert regulators brought us cleaner air and water, safer food and consumer products, fairer workplaces and markets, and much more. Every year going back decades, studies showed the benefits to the public of new and existing regulations outweighing the costs to industry by a factor of 10-to-1 or more. This is what trusting the experts got us, and it’s what the EXPERTS Act will restore.”

“The EXPERTS Act is the marquee legislation to improve our regulatory system,” said Lisa Gilbert, Co-President, Public Citizen and CSS Co-Chair. “The bill aims directly at the corporate capture of our rulemaking process, brings transparency to the regulatory review process and imposes a $250,000 fine on corporations that submit false information, among other things. The bill is essential law for the future of our health, safety, environment, and workers. Public Citizen urges swift passage in both chambers.”

This legislation is sponsored by Representatives Alma Adams (NC-12), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Julia Brownley (CA-26), André Carson (IN-07), Greg Casar (TX-35), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Steve Cohen (TN-09), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jesus G. “Chuy” Garcia (IL-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Steven Horsford (NV-07), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. (“Hank”) Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Summer Lee (PA-12), Mike Levin (CA-49), Ted Lieu (CA-33), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05). The legislation is also sponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (CT), Cory Booker (NJ), Mazie Hirono (HI), Andy Kim (NJ), Ben Ray Luján (NM), Ed Markey (MA), Jeff Merkley (OR), Peter Welch (VT), Bernard Sanders (VT), Adam Schiff (CA), Chris Van Hollen (MD), and Ron Wyden (OR).

The legislation is endorsed by Coalition for Sensible Safeguards; Accountable.US / Accountable.NOW; AFL-CIO; AFT; American Atheists; American Bird Conservancy; American Economic Liberties Project; American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees; Americans for Financial Reform; Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization; Consumer Advocates Against Reverse Mortgage Abuse (CAARMA); Center for Auto Safety; Center for Digital Democracy; Center for Economic Integrity; Center for Economic Justice; Center For Food Safety; Center for Justice & Democracy; Center for Progressive Reform; Center for Science in the Public Interest; Clean Air Council; Coalition on Human Needs; Colorado Fiscal Institute; Consumer Action; Consumer Federation of America; Consumer Federation of California; Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety; Cultivating Lives Educational Services; Delaware Community Reinvestment Action Council; Earthjustice Action; Endangered Species Coalition; Economic Policy Institute; GenDemocracy; Genesee Co-op Federal Credit Union; Good Jobs First; Government Information Watch; GreenLatinos; Greenpeace USA; Impact Fund; Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy; Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility; International Center for Technology Assessment; Interfaith Power & Light; International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW); Jacobs Institute of Women’s Health; Jobs to Move America; Kettle Range Conservation Group; Lawyers for Good Government; League of Conservation Voters; Medical Students for a Sustainable Future (MS4SF); National Association of Consumer Advocates; National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients); National Consumers League; National Employment Law Project; National Federation of Federal Employees; National Health Law Program; New Jersey Association on Correction; NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; Oregon Consumer Justice; Oregon Consumer League; People Power United; Physicians for Social Responsibility; Public Citizen; Rise Economy; Sciencecorps; Sierra Club; Small Business Majority; South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center; Southern Environmental Law Center; Texas Appleseed; The Conservation Angler; Union of Concerned Scientists; Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice; United Steelworkers; United Way of Central Texas; U.S. PIRG; Virginia Citizens Consumer Council; Voices Organized in Civic Engagement (VOICE); WE ACT for Environmental Justice; Zero Hour; 20/20 Vision.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://jayapal.house.gov/2025/11/19/monopoly-busters-caucus-chairs-call-meta-monopoly-decision-dead-wrong-and-dangerous/,Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Call Meta Monopoly Decision ‘Dead Wrong and Dangerous’,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Pramila Jayapal,J000298,jayapal.house.gov,jayapal,https://jayapal.house.gov/category/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs, U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Angie Craig (MN-02), released the following statement concerning Judge James Boasberg’s ruling against the Federal Trade Commission in its challenge to Meta’s social media monopoly:

“Today’s ruling letting Meta off the hook is dead wrong and dangerous. It’s a judicial rubber stamp for unchecked monopoly power. Meta didn’t succeed by building the best social media network, it bought or buried every serious rival and then exploited its monopoly without accountability.

“The results speak for themselves. Repeated privacy disasters. The theft of millions of people’s data for political manipulation. Algorithms that worsen teenage mental health and amplify hate. Constant ads served based on surveillance of people’s lives and friendships. Terrible for America but very profitable for Meta.

“Real competition isn’t just another app on your phone. It’s the freedom to delete without getting shut out of the conversation. This decision proves our antitrust laws are stuck in a pre-internet age. An appeal is the bare minimum. We need to modernize the law before a single company controls both today’s conversations and tomorrow’s minds.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4055,Larsen and T&I Committee Leaders Introduce Bill to Protect Air Traffic Control System from Government Shutdowns,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Troy E. Nehls (R-TX), and Aviation Subcommittee Ranking Member André Carson (D-IN) introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that, during any future government shutdowns, the U.S. National Airspace System and those responsible for its safe, efficient operation are protected from any lapses in federal funding.

The Aviation Funding Solvency Act eliminates the additional strain on the U.S. aviation system that can build during government shutdowns by ensuring that air traffic controllers and other Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) professionals responsible for managing the airspace will continue to get paid. The bill will allow the FAA, during a shutdown, to access the Aviation Insurance Revolving Fund to cover critical services that will keep our aviation system running safely for the traveling public, while ensuring the Revolving Fund has a healthy balance to address potential claims.

The Aviation Insurance Revolving Fund covers war risk insurance claims by airlines when they are activated under the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) program. The fund’s balance was originally funded by airline war risk insurance premiums, but that program has been terminated since 2014. Despite being largely unused, interest accumulation has increased the balance of the fund to more than $2.6 billion, which is significantly more than the fund has needed to cover CRAF claims.

Click here to read the bill.

Larsen said, “Thank you to our invaluable aviation safety workforce, who, during the longest shutdown in history, did not waver in their duties to keep the flying public safe – despite not knowing when their next paycheck would come. These hardworking women and men should never have to sacrifice pay – making an already difficult job even more stressful. Our bipartisan bill ensures air traffic controllers and other aviation safety personnel will continue to get paid during future shutdowns and allows the FAA to operate uninterrupted so the agency can focus on its critical airspace safety mission.”

Graves said, “I am grateful for our federal employees, especially our air traffic controllers, who showed up day-in and day-out throughout the shutdown to do their jobs, without pay, to ensure the safety of our aviation system and the nation. But we all saw that the system can be vulnerable when Congress can’t get its job done. This bill guarantees that controllers, who have one of the most high-pressure jobs in the nation, will get paid during any future funding lapses and that air traffic control, aviation safety, and the traveling public will never again be negatively impacted by shutdowns.”

Nehls said, “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing legislation that ensures the professionals responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of our airspace are guaranteed pay through a federal government shutdown. Shutdowns shouldn’t put the safety of our national airspace and the flying public at risk. To avoid unnecessary pressure and strain on our aviation system, we must ensure those who are responsible for the operation of our airspace aren’t financially affected in the event of a future federal government shutdown.”

Carson said, “A government shutdown should never affect our air travel the way it did earlier this month. Air traffic controllers already have one of the most stressful jobs in the country, and they deserve to be paid regardless of what’s happening in Washington. Our new, bipartisan bill will ensure FAA employees are paid and travelers don’t have to experience unnecessary interruptions.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4056,Larsen Introduces Legislation to Reverse Big Ugly Law’s Burdensome Paperwork Requirements,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) introduced the Patients Over Paperwork Act to reverse burdensome paperwork requirements instituted in the Big Ugly Law (BUL) that will result in thousands of Washingtonians losing access to health care.

“Health care should be accessible and affordable for everyone,” said Rep. Larsen. “Most people who lose Medicaid coverage lose it because they forget to fill out a form or check a box, and the BUL doubles opportunities for a simple paperwork mistake to cost someone their access to health care. I am proud to introduce this bill to protect the 179,000 Medicaid enrollees that I represent.”

Under previous law, Medicaid recipients were required to recertify their coverage every 12 months. The BUL doubles the paperwork requirement, forcing recipients to recertify every 6 months. The Congressional Budget Office estimates this provision will cause 700,000 people nationwide to lose health insurance by 2034 and will cut $63 billion worth of health care from Medicaid, making it one of the five biggest Medicaid cuts in the BUL.

“Introducing the Patients Over Paperwork Act is just one step in rolling back the BUL,” said Rep. Larsen. “I will continue to fight alongside House Democrats to reverse the BUL and make health care affordable and accessible.”

Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Jim Costa (CA-21), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-Del), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Ritchie Torres (NY-15) and Marc Veasey (TX-33) cosponsored the Patients Over Paperwork Act.

The Patients Over Paperwork Act is also supported by the WA State Medical Association (WSMA), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA), Families USA, National Health Law Program (NHeLP), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), Justice in Aging, American Public Health Association (APHA), Diverse Elders Coalition (DEC), National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) and PHI.

Bridget Bush, MD, FASA, President, Washington State Medical Association: “Far too many patients lose Medicaid coverage not because they’re ineligible, but because they get trapped by administrative hurdles. The Patients Over Paperwork Act restores a common sense 12-month recertification timeline and helps keep people connected to the care they rely on. Washington physicians strongly support this legislation because stable coverage is fundamental to better health outcomes, less administrative waste, and a more equitable health system. We applaud Rep. Larsen for leading this effort to protect patients and reduce avoidable barriers to care.”

Leslie Frane, Executive Vice President of SEIU: “Imagine being told you can’t get your chemo this week, or that your child’s checkup is suddenly cancelled—not because you no longer qualify for care, but because your paperwork is stuck in a pile. The Republican plan to double Medicaid eligibility requirements isn’t policy, it’s cruelty that adds layers of red tape to push working families off Medicaid through no fault of their own. SEIU members fight for healthcare justice every day, and we applaud Rep. Larsen’s Patients Over Paperwork Act as a commonsense step in making sure all families can get the care they need.”

Cassie Sauer, CEO, Washington State Hospital Association: ""Washington’s hospitals are deeply concerned for the hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians projected to lose Medicaid coverage in the coming years. This legislation will remove barriers to coverage for patients, helping to ensure their access to needed health care services.""

Jen Taylor, Senior Director of Government Relations at Families USA: “Families USA is proud to endorse the Patients Over Paperwork Act. As states move forward with implementing the largest Medicaid cuts in history, new redetermination requirements are trapping people in a web of complex and confusing paperwork that will cause an estimated 700,000 people to lose coverage unnecessarily. This legislation would reverse harmful eligibility barriers and reduce administrative burdens so that people can keep the health coverage they are eligible for and rely on. We should be making it easier—not harder—for patients and families to get the care they need.”

Mara Youdelman, Managing Director, Federal Advocacy, National Health Law Program: “The National Health Law Program greatly appreciates the introduction of the Patients Over Paperwork Act. This legislation will protect Medicaid coverage for individuals who would otherwise be at high risk for losing Medicaid solely due to increased paperwork and red tape.”

Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness: “Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of Americans with mental health conditions, and any additional requirements for people to maintain Medicaid eligibility results in people losing coverage when they can't navigate the administrative burden. Doubling the frequency of eligibility checks will only increase these barriers, resulting in people losing coverage despite being eligible. The Patients Over Paperwork Act restores a reasonable renewal process that protects coverage and keeps people connected to treatment. NAMI thanks Rep. Larsen for this important legislation and is proud to support this bill.""

The full text of the Patients Over Paperwork Act is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kim-schrier-md-elected-chair-democratic-doctors-caucus,"Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D., Elected as Chair of the Democratic Doctors Caucus",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), the first pediatrician elected to Congress, announced that she was elected as Chair of the Democratic Doctors Caucus.

“I am honored to be elected as the first chair of the Democratic Doctors Caucus,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “Right now, our nation’s healthcare system is at a pivotal moment, facing unprecedented attacks on affordable healthcare access and the rampant spread of medical misinformation. As chair of this caucus, I will continue to work with my fellow Democratic doctors and colleagues across Congress to lower costs, put patients and doctors back in the driver's seat, and ensure our healthcare system works for all Americans.""

Background:

The Democratic Doctors Caucus was formed at the beginning of the 119th Congress with a focus on promoting the health and well-being of Americans, advancing pragmatic healthcare policy, and providing fellow Members with insights on critical health issues. In addition to Congresswoman Schrier, other members of the caucus include: Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), Herb Conaway Jr., M.D. (NJ-03), Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03), Kelly Morrison, M.D. (MN-03), and Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-kim-schrier-wa-08-unveils-rural-revitalization-agenda-grow-rural,"Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08) Unveils Rural Revitalization Agenda to Grow Rural Economies, Lower Costs, and Improve Health Care",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Kim Schrier,S001216,schrier.house.gov,schrier,https://schrier.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the New Democrat Coalition Rural Revitalization Working Group, led by Working Group Chair Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08), Farm Bill Task Force Chair Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21), Rural Broadband Task Force Chair Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Rural Economy Task Force Chair Josh Riley (NY-19), released its Rural Revitalization Agenda, which offers a path forward for Congress to support the long-term growth and prosperity of communities that are often overlooked and underappreciated.

Through the Rural Revitalization Agenda, New Dems will work to rebuild and reinvest in rural areas by growing local and farm economies, expanding access to affordable housing and high-quality healthcare, and breaking down barriers to success, like lack of high-speed internet, job training, and harmful trade policies.

“When our rural communities thrive, our nation thrives,"" said Congresswoman Schrier. ""The agenda that we are releasing today will support rural Americans in Washington state and across the country by fueling economic prosperity and addressing the long-standing disparities that are holding these communities back from their full potential. In Congress, I will keep fighting alongside my New Democrat Coalition colleagues to uplift and strengthen rural communities throughout the country.""

“Rural communities, like those I represent in the San Joaquin Valley, are important parts of our nation’s economy,” said Congressman Costa. “Yet too often, these communities are overlooked. It’s time we invest in rural America. Which is why I’m proud to be a part of this agenda that advances two of my bills, the MORE Nurses Act and the Rural Homeownership Continuity Act. This agenda will help expand affordable housing, strengthen our rural health care workforce, and build lasting economic growth.”

""I'm so proud to support the New Democrats Coalition's Rural Revitalization Agenda. Our rural communities are big cornerstones of our local and national economies through energy, tourism, farming, and tech innovation. Sadly, due to this Administration's reckless cuts to our food security, cuts to federal agencies, and an assault on health care and rural hospitals, Rural America is in need of help. These hard-working families do not need life to be harder or less affordable,"" said Congresswoman McClain Delaney. ""This agenda works to strengthen our farm economies, expand access to quality health care, and make key investments in workforce training and economic development. I am ready to get to work on this Agenda and help our rural communities thrive.""

The Agenda is centered around four fundamental goals: empowering communities to achieve long-term economic prosperity; supporting the care economy and improving rural healthcare; investing in the farm economy; and closing the digital gap by expanding access to broadband.

The document also lays out the next steps for New Dems to implement this agenda, including working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to develop and pass a bipartisan Farm Bill, bolstering programs targeting rural areas, and addressing disparities to help unlock the full potential of rural regions.

You can read the full New Dem Rural Revitalization Agenda here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://baumgartner.house.gov/media/press-releases/baumgartner-votes-yes-release-epstein-files-calls-oversight-hearing-democrat,Baumgartner Votes Yes to Release Epstein Files; Calls for Oversight Hearing into Democrat Coordination with Epstein,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,WA,Michael Baumgartner,B001322,baumgartner.house.gov,baumgartner,https://baumgartner.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Michael Baumgartner (WA-05) issued the following statement upon the passage of H.R. 4405, The Epstein Files Transparency Act.

“Today, I voted to release the Epstein Files because, as I have long said, the evil and predatory network surrounding Jeffrey Epstein must be fully exposed. The American people deserve the truth, and every victim of sexual assault deserves justice. That pursuit of justice begins with transparency and accountability.

At the same time, I am deeply concerned by reports that a Democrat member of Congress was communicating with Jeffrey Epstein in real time during a committee hearing to coordinate questioning. This is a five‑alarm ethics fire that cannot be ignored. Congress must launch a full investigation into this serious breach of public trust. Justice and integrity in our institutions are not negotiable.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4052,Larsen Advocates for Glacier Post Office,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Rick Larsen,L000560,larsen.house.gov,larsen,https://larsen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Representative Rick Larsen advocated for additional clarity and communication from the United States Postal Service with regard to mail operations at the Glacier Post Office.

The full text of Rep. Larsen's letter to Postmaster General David Steiner is available here and below.

The Honorable David Steiner

Postmaster General

United States Postal Service

475 L’Enfant Plaza SW

Washington, DC 20260

Dear Postmaster General Steiner:

I am writing to raise concerns about the mail operations at Glacier Post Office, a Contract Postal Unit (CPU) located in Glacier, Washington. This post office is a critical lifeline for the 300 people who call this remote mountainous area in Whatcom County home. Local residents rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS) for their medications, ballots, paychecks, bills and other necessities.

Starting November 7, I began receiving messages from constituents that they were no longer receiving mail at the Glacier Post Office, which has been a fixture in the community for more than 100 years. Local media reported USPS stopped accepting outgoing mail at this location, sparking concern the post office could close altogether.

Closure could force many people in Glacier to travel nearly an hour round-trip to Deming for mail service. This 40-mile route traverses the Mount Baker Highway (SR 542), which can be subject to weather-related hazards like snow and ice. Glacier residents have no home mail service, and the Glacier Post Office is the community’s only connection to essential delivery services.

Since the Glacier Water District took ownership of the Glacier Post Office building in the 1970s, it has not charged USPS to operate out of it. The continuation of mail service at the Glacier Post Office is not only important for this community, but it is also cost-effective for USPS.

Many Glacier residents are rightfully concerned about their mail services and whether the post office will close permanently. I appreciate that the Postal Service has provided some indication that steps are being taken to ensure continuity of operations at the post office. However, concerns remain about a disruption in service and potential closure of the post office. My constituents deserve certainty and open communication. To that end, I request that you provide answers to the following questions no later than December 5, 2025:

1. Is USPS renewing its contract with the Glacier Water District to keep the Glacier Post Office open and operational?

2. What steps is USPS taking to ensure mail services are not disrupted in Glacier?

3. How will USPS communicate its mail service plans to Glacier residents?

4. Will USPS proactively institute new communication practices in Glacier to prevent future confusion over mail service?

Thank you for your attention to this matter. My office stands ready to assist USPS to ensure there are no further delivery disruptions in Glacier, Washington, and I look forward to your timely response.

Sincerely,

Rick Larsen

U.S. Representative

Washington State, Second District

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/newhouse-votes-release-epstein-files,Newhouse Votes to Release Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,WA,Dan Newhouse,N000189,newhouse.house.gov,newhouse,https://newhouse.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon passage of H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, by the House of Representatives with a vote of 427-1

""While Jeffrey Epstein is dead, the fact remains that his victims were trafficked, their innocence exploited, and they deserve justice for the heinous crimes committed by this horrible man,"" said Rep. Newhouse. ""The entirety of the debate around releasing the Epstein files has been centered around one thing, transparency. My top priority in releasing these files has been protecting the victims, especially the minors, as well as ensuring any unsealed information does not interfere with active pursuits of justice. I encourage our counterparts in the Senate to prioritize the sensitivity of the victims’ privacy while we work to show Americans that these disgusting crimes will not be kept in the dark.""

This legislation requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to publish, in a searchable and downloadable format, all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in DOJ's possession that relate to the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein.

This includes materials that relate to Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs and travel records, and individuals named or referenced in connection with the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein.

DOJ is permitted to withhold certain information such as the personal information of victims and materials that would jeopardize an active federal investigation.

Additionally, not later than 15 days after the required publication, DOJ must report to Congress all categories of information released and withheld, a summary of any redactions made, and a list of all government officials and politically exposed individuals named or referenced in the published materials.

Republicans on the House Oversight Committee have publicly released approximately 65,000 pages of records to date. This includes documents from the Department of Justice, the Epstein Estate, former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr’s deposition transcript, and former U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta’s transcript.

See full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-emily-randall-and-mp-johns-co-host-cross-border-leaders-summit,Congresswoman Emily Randall and MP Johns Co-Host Cross-Border Leaders' Summit,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,WA,Emily Randall,R000621,randall.house.gov,randall,https://randall.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington DC — U.S. Congresswoman Emily Randall (WA-06) and NDP Canadian Federal Member of Parliament Gord Johns (Courtenay–Alberni) co-chaired May These Gates Never Be Closed: A Cross-Border Dialogue for the Pacific Northwest, an ad-hoc gathering of local leaders from coastal British Columbia and Washington State hosted by the newly formed Collective Coast Association.

The meeting brought together more than a dozen mayors, First Nations chiefs, county and district chairs, along with two state representatives, Director Nguyễn of the Washington Department of Commerce, and special guest U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen (WA-02), for a candid discussion about the impacts of President Trump’s escalating tariffs and inflammatory pro-annexation rhetoric.

“The United States has the great luck of being neighbors with Canada,” said Congresswoman Emily Randall. “Neighbors relying on each other across shared waters, cultures, and borders. Washington and British Columbia are incredibly interconnected — through our economy, our workforce, Tribes and First Nations, and the families who move between our communities every day. I was honored to Co-Chair today’s conversation alongside MP Johns about how to strengthen this partnership and make sure our communities on both sides of the Strait continue to thrive together.”

Local leaders on both sides of the border emphasized that the President’s decisions have created widespread uncertainty, encouraged boycotts, and caused real economic harm in closely connected communities that rely on stable, predictable cross-border relationships.

The Collective Coast Association—a new, community-driven organization made up of members from both countries—was established to strengthen cooperation across the Pacific Northwest. The group organized this virtual forum after witnessing the destabilizing effects of the tariff crisis and recognizing that regional leaders from both sides of the border need a space to work together constructively.

The event’s title, “May These Gates Never Be Closed,” comes from the inscription in the Peace Arch at the Canada-U.S. border and reflects the deep, enduring friendship between people in British Columbia and Washington State.

“These tariffs are being felt everywhere in my riding,” said MP Johns. “Municipalities are struggling with procurement because they don’t know what materials might be hit next. I’ll keep fighting for people in Ottawa—but this dialogue helps ensure that their concerns are heard directly in Washington, D.C., too.”

“The truth is simple: B.C. and Washington will always be neighbors, no matter who is in government,” said Alex Hunter, founder of the Collective Coast Association. “We can’t move our countries apart. What we can do is protect the shared values that help us move forward together.”

MP Johns and Rep. Randall will continue working with local communities as they navigate the ongoing uncertainty created by the tariff environment and the broader unpredictability of the Trump administration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z