url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-celebrates-transformational-3-billion-investment-in-carnegie-mellon-university/,Senator McCormick Celebrates Transformational $3 Billion Investment in Carnegie Mellon University,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) celebrated a historic gift to Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) from Citadel founder and CEO Ken Griffin, including a transformational $1 billion investment in CMU’s Pittsburgh campus and $2 billion to launch Carnegie Mellon University Miami.

“This extraordinary investment from my great friend Ken Griffin is a tremendous vote of confidence in CMU, in Pittsburgh, and in the innovation that will continue to define America’s future,” said Senator McCormick. “Pittsburgh has always been a city that reinvents itself. Andrew Carnegie helped build the Steel City into an industrial powerhouse, and today, the university that bears his name is helping lead America into the next era of innovation. I’m so proud of President Farnam Jahanian and his team for helping make Carnegie Mellon one of the finest research institutions in the world, a global leader in artificial intelligence, robotics, engineering, computer science, and so much more.”

Senator McCormick previously served on Carnegie Mellon’s Board of Trustees and has long viewed the university as central to Pittsburgh’s transformation from the Steel City into a global hub for technology and innovation. CMU’s world-class leadership in artificial intelligence, robotics, computer science, and engineering has helped put Pittsburgh at the forefront of the technologies shaping America’s future. That leadership made CMU the natural home for Senator McCormick’s inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, showcasing the Commonwealth’s unique strengths in AI, energy, and advanced technology and catalyzing $92 billion in investment in Pennsylvania’s future.

This historic investment announced today builds on that momentum. The $1 billion commitment to support CMU’s Pittsburgh campus will strengthen CMU’s research and academic leadership, attract the best minds, and fuel innovation and discovery in western Pennsylvania. The $2 billion investment in the launch of CMU Miami will expand the reach of an institution built in Pittsburgh and bring CMU’s culture of innovation and excellence to a new generation of leaders.

At a moment of intense global competition, America must continue to invest in the people and institutions that allow us to invent, build, and lead. More than a century after Andrew Carnegie invested in Pittsburgh, that same spirit of ambition, discovery, and innovation remains alive and well in Western Pennsylvania.",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-gallego-cornyn-fetterman-introduce-bill-to-keep-chinese-transceivers-out-of-u-s-national-security-systems/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, GALLEGO, CORNYN, FETTERMAN INTRODUCE BILL TO KEEP CHINESE TRANSCEIVERS OUT OF U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY SYSTEMS",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), John Cornyn (R-TX), and John Fetterman (D-PA) today introduced the Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act, bipartisan legislation to prevent Chinese-made optical transceivers from being used in the federal government’s most sensitive national security systems.

Chinese manufacturers have become major suppliers of optical transceivers, creating U.S. alliance on these critical components which move data through high-speed fiber-optic networks, including the networks powering artificial intelligence. Because advanced transceivers can contain reprogrammable firmware, their use in national security networks can create potential supply-chain and security risks. In June, the Department of War added major Chinese manufacturer InnoLight to its Section 1260H list of Chinese military companies, but current law does not impose a government-wide prohibition on adversary-linked optical transceivers in the systems carrying some of America’s most sensitive information.

The bill extends an existing federal procurement restriction for semiconductors to covered optical transceivers used in critical systems. It gives suppliers five years to develop compliant sources and provides waivers where necessary to protect supply and national security.

“We shouldn’t rely on China for technologies that are essential to our national security,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan bill will help secure our networks and give American manufacturers—including the incredible companies and workers we have right here in Pennsylvania— the opportunity to step up, build more of this technology at home, and compete.”

“Optical transceivers are a critical part of America’s modern communications infrastructure, and we need to make sure that infrastructure is secure,” said Senator Gallego. “Our reliance on China to produce these transceivers creates a serious national security vulnerability. This legislation protects our most sensitive systems and invests in Arizona manufacturers, who are already helping build a secure supply chain here at home.”

“Critical government communication and information systems must be safe, reliable, and free of any foreign interference, but the use of Chinese technology undermines that mission,” said Senator Cornyn. “I am proud to cosponsor Senator McCormick’s Securing National Security Systemsfrom Chinese Optical Transceivers Act, which will extend the commonsense procurement restrictions I worked to include in the Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA and support American jobs.”

“Fiber-optic networks are the digital highways that make our economy run at the speed of light,” said Senator Fetterman. “Just like we use American-made steel to build federal highways and bridges, we should also be using American-made equipment in our fiber-optic networks wherever possible. I am proud to join my colleagues to ensure our critical information networks do not rely on Chinese-made optical transceivers.”

The Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act would close that gap by extending safeguards Congress has already established for Chinese semiconductors to optical transceivers used in national security systems. The legislation would:

Prohibit federal procurement of covered optical transceivers for national security systems, building on the existing federal framework restricting certain Chinese semiconductors.

Cover InnoLight, Eoptolink, and their subsidiaries and affiliates, as well as additional adversary-linked companies designated by the Secretary of War or Secretary of Commerce, including covered transceivers that incorporate their firmware, software, or components.

Provide a five-year transition period before the prohibition takes effect, allowing trusted American and allied manufacturers time to expand production while minimizing disruptions to federal supply chains.

Direct the Department of Commerce to assess U.S. and allied production capacity and develop a strategy to strengthen trusted optical transceiver supply chains.

Permit limited, renewable waivers when no trusted alternative is available, with each waiver reported to Congress.

The Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act is supported by the following stakeholders:

Scott Paul, President, Alliance for American Manufacturing:

“For too long, China has pursued dominance in strategically important industries while benefiting from access to markets that reinforce that position. Federal taxpayer dollars should not be used to deepen America’s dependence on Chinese manufacturers for critical technologies. Senator McCormick’s legislation sends an important signal that the United States is serious about securing strategic supply chains, rebuilding domestic manufacturing capacity, and strengthening the industrial base needed to compete and lead in the technologies of the future.”

Alexandria Paolozzi Moore, Senior Director of Government Relations, FDD Action:

“America’s national security systems are increasingly dependent on high-speed optical networking. Yet our reliance on adversary-controlled components in systems that underpin national defense creates serious security vulnerabilities. FDD Action endorses the Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act of 2026 because it closes a gap in existing semiconductor security law. That gap allows CCP-linked suppliers to operate at a critical point where our data flows. We support this legislation and urge its expeditious consideration.”

Daniel Kishi, Senior Policy Advisor, American Compass:

“China’s dominance of the optical transceiver market has exposed a major vulnerability at the heart of America’s technological infrastructure. The Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act would keep Chinese optical transceivers out of the federal government’s critical systems and safeguard sensitive government networks from the risks they pose.”

Coalition for a Prosperous America:

“The Defense Department has already named InnoLight — the world’s largest optical transceiver maker — a Chinese military company, yet its hardware still sits inside America’s data centers and national security systems. That’s indefensible. Chinese firms control roughly 70 percent of the global optical module market because the CCP targeted this technology for domination, and Beijing won’t let a single American-made transceiver into its own data centers. Senator McCormick’s bill sends a clear demand signal to the American manufacturers already investing in domestic capacity and ensures only trusted hardware runs our national security systems. CPA is proud to support it and urges Congress to pass it without delay.”

New American Industrial Alliance:

“As China continues its efforts to infiltrate cutting-edge American technologies, it’s more important than ever for Congress to take action to protect America’s technological superiority. By extending the federal ban on Chinese-linked chips to optical transceivers in national security systems, the Securing National Security Systems from Chinese Optical Transceivers Act would close a potential backdoor into our most sensitive networks while giving industry time to build a trusted supply. NAIA thanks Senator McCormick for his tireless work to ensure American security and technological superiority.”

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-announceswinners-of-america250-pennsylvania-youth-essay-contest/,SENATOR MCCORMICK ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF AMERICA250 PENNSYLVANIA YOUTH ESSAY CONTEST,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Last week, U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) announced the winners of his America250 Pennsylvania Youth Essay Contest, which invited high school students across the Commonwealth to reflect on Pennsylvania’s central role in the American story as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.

The winners are Brady Sirochman, a 10th grade student at Laurel Highlands High School in Uniontown, and Ronit Luthra, an 11th grade student at Downingtown High School East in Downingtown. The contest drew dozens of submissions from students across Pennsylvania.

“Pennsylvania was there at America’s founding and has been there at every turning point since. Brady and Ronit captured that in their essays — and in the process showed me that the Commonwealth is still producing the kind of people who will lead this country through its next 250 years. They inspire me. Their work belongs in the Congressional Record,” said Senator McCormick.

Both winning essays were be entered into the Congressional Record, and both students met with Senator McCormick in Washington, D.C. where they were presented with American flags that flew over the Capitol on July 4th. Top runners-up received a signed letter of recognition from the Senator.

Entries were blindly reviewed by a panel made up of Senator McCormick, a Pennsylvania High School History teacher, and members of Senator McCormick’s staff. Senator McCormick chose the winning essays. Submissions were divided into two divisions: Division I: grades 9-10; Division II: grades 11-12.

Division I Winner — Brady Sirochman, Laurel Highlands High School, 10th Grade, Uniontown

Sirochman wrote on General George C. Marshall, the Uniontown native who organized the Allied victory in World War II and later authored the Marshall Plan. He opens at the intersection where Marshall’s statue sits across from a bronze soldier, and closes on what that pairing represents:

“Through his military career spanning service from the Philippines to Europe, and later his organization of the armed forces in World War II, we see his life as a personification of America’s willingness to defend liberty aggressively. However, through his career post-war in the fields of diplomacy and government aid, we see his life as a personification of America’s willingness to defend liberty peacefully. George C. Marshall is a unification of these two necessities, as at America’s best, we understand the need for a soldier, as well as the need for a diplomat.”

Read Brady Sirochman’s full essay here.

Division II Winner — Ronit Luthra, Downingtown High School East, 11th Grade, Downingtown

Luthra wrote on George Westinghouse, the Pittsburgh inventor and industrialist whose bet on alternating current electrified the modern world — and who, Luthra argues, deserves a larger place in national memory than he holds:

“Here was a nation that let a self-taught veteran with no advantages rise on the strength of his ideas alone, then rewarded him for backing an immigrant genius whom nearly everyone else had written off. The country asked no permission of any ministry or court before a private citizen remade the daily life of the entire world.”

Read Ronit Luthra’s full essay here.

Learn more about Senator McCormick’s America 250 initiative by clicking here.

###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-releases-statement-on-the-clarity-act/,SENATOR MCCORMICK RELEASES STATEMENT ON THE CLARITY ACT,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Senate failed to advance the CLARITY Act after a procedural vote fell short of the 60 votes needed (49-50). Following the vote, Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) released the following statement:

“Today, Senate Democrats blocked the vote to advance the CLARITY Act. I’m deeply disappointed at this outcome. For more than a year, Republicans and Democrats worked together in good faith to develop a clear, responsible regulatory framework for digital assets. The legislation before the Senate today incorporated substantive changes requested by Democrats, real concessions designed to address concerns from both sides of the aisle and build a durable bipartisan framework. The status quo leaves consumers and investors worse off and cedes U.S. financial leadership overseas. At a time when our global competitors are racing ahead, American entrepreneurs, investors, consumers, and financial institutions in Pennsylvania and across the U.S. deserve clear rules of the road that protect consumers while allowing innovation to flourish here at home. This issue isn’t going away, and neither is my commitment to getting it done. Community banks and entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania are worse off without CLARITY. I’ll continue working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver the certainty America needs to remain the global leader in financial innovation.”

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-press-hhs-on-canceled-health-research-grants/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN PRESS HHS ON CANCELED HEALTH RESEARCH GRANTS,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Pennsylvania senators seek answers on AHRQ grant cancellations affecting researchers at CHOP and the University of Pittsburgh

WASHINGTON — Recently, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to share their concerns regarding the recent cancellation of Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) grants and the impact this will have on Pennsylvania research institutions.

On July 15, more than 150 AHRQ grantees, including researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the University of Pittsburgh, were notified that funding for ongoing, multi-year research projects would be canceled. Many of the affected projects had already undergone peer review and received federal funding in prior years.

“While we greatly appreciate the Department of Health and Human Services’ commitment to ensuring federally funded research invests in scientific innovation and delivers meaningful value for taxpayers, we believe these objectives should be balanced with consideration of projects that have already undergone peer review and received federal funding,” said Senators McCormick and Fetterman.

The senators cautioned that abruptly ending multi-year projects after substantial federal investment could waste taxpayer resources, disrupt ongoing research, eliminate jobs, and delay innovations aimed at improving patient care. They also raised concerns that uncertainty surrounding continued federal research support could make it harder for institutions to plan long-term projects and retain experienced researchers.

McCormick and Fetterman requested that HHS provide their offices with a briefing by September 25, 2026, detailing:

The criteria used to determine which AHRQ grants were canceled, and which will continue;

How a prior federal investment, project progress, and potential disruption to researchers and personnel factor into funding decisions;

Whether affected institutions have opportunities to seek reconsideration or otherwise mitigate the impact of terminated funding;

Whether HHS plans to reallocate funds that otherwise would have supported the canceled grants; and

The Department’s long-term plan for AHRQ and its role in supporting safe, effective, and affordable health care research for the American people.

The letter follows previous efforts by Senators McCormick and Fetterman to protect Pennsylvania’s research enterprise. In May, the senators urged the National Institutes of Health to move quickly to obligate congressionally appropriated FY2026 grant funding, citing the importance of federal research investments to Pennsylvania jobs, scientific breakthroughs, and U.S. leadership in biomedical research.

Read the full text of the letter here.

Full text of the letter:

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

We are writing to express our concern regarding the recent cancelation of Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) grants and the impact on Pennsylvania’s research institutions and their efforts to improve health care outcomes for the patients they serve.

On July 15, 2026, more than 150 AHRQ grantees, including researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the University of Pittsburgh, were notified of the cancelation of funding for ongoing, multi-year research projects. These cancelations are affecting awards that have undergone peer review and have received prior-year funding. Abruptly ending these multi-year projects, after substantial federal investment, risks wasting taxpayer resources while disrupting research, eliminating jobs, and delaying innovations to improve patient care.

While we appreciate the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) commitment to ensuring federally funded research promotes scientific rigor and delivers meaningful value for taxpayers, we believe these objectives should be balanced with consideration of projects that have already undergone review and received federal funding. Careful stewardship of federal research spending is important to maintaining public trust in our nation’s research enterprise.

As the Department implements these reforms, it is imperative that changes are carried out in a manner that preserves the value of existing federal investments. To that end, the recent decision to end continuation funding for ongoing AHRQ grants may create uncertainty around federal research support, making it harder for institutions to plan long-term projects, retain experienced researchers, and pursue future scientific breakthroughs. Over time, this instability risks weakening our nation’s leadership in scientific research.

To better understand the Department’s perspective, planning, and prioritization, we respectfully request that HHS provide a briefing on the Department’s approach to these funding decisions no later than September 25, 2026, with topics to include:

The criteria utilized by the Department to determine which AHRQ grants were canceled and which will continue;

How the Department considers prior federal investment, project progress, and potential disruptions to research and personnel when making these decisions;

Whether affected institutions have opportunities to seek reconsideration or otherwise mitigate the impact of terminated funding;

Department plans to reallocate funds that otherwise would have supported the affected grants; and

The Department’s long-term plan for AHRQ and the role it plays in supporting research that promotes safe, effective, and affordable health care for the American people.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter, and we look forward to hearing from the Department and working together to ensure our nation’s research enterprise remains strong and effective.

Sincerely,

David H. McCormick

United States Senator",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-hickenlooper-announce-formation-of-senate-bipartisan-science-and-innovation-caucus/,"McCormick, Hickenlooper Announce Formation of Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) announced the formation of the U.S. Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus to highlight and elevate American scientific research and the application of those discoveries to promote innovation. Caucus members will work together with industry leaders and the research community to develop policies that promote U.S. leadership in science.

“America’s economic strength and national security have always been powered by our ability to innovate, and that begins with world-class scientific research,” said Senator McCormick. “As we compete to maintain America’s position as the world’s leading superpower, this bipartisan caucus will help unleash the ingenuity of our scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators to drive economic growth, create opportunity, and strengthen our nation.”

“Science propels our economy, saves lives, and solves the problems that once seemed unsolvable,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “This caucus exists for one reason: to make sure Congress is fighting as hard for American innovation as our scientists and researchers are. The stakes are too high for anything less.”

The United States has been a global economic leader for the past 50 years because of our dedication to science, technology, and innovation. Federally-funded research led to the invention of optical fibers, microchips, personal computers, mobile phones, robotics, cutting-edge medicine, and more.

Jobs in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine make up 34% of the U.S. workforce.

Economic activity from these fields generates 39% of U.S. GDP – over $10 trillion dollars.

The United States spends only 3% of its GDP on research and development (R&D) and innovation.

Federally funded R&D dollars are doubled in returns: every $1 invested generates nearly $2 in economic output. This is substantially higher than the returns on other forms of federal investment.

China is overtaking the United States in R&D funding, graduating more PhDs in STEM programs, filing more international patents than the U.S., and narrowing the gap on venture capital investment.

The Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus plans to host briefings, engage in roundtables and other conversations about existing and new policies, and provide a venue for discourse about new legislation to boost American scientific research and our STEM workforce.

A kickoff event celebrating the caucus will be held on Monday, September 14th at the United States Capitol.

###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-hickenlooper-announce-formation-of-senate-bipartisan-science-and-innovation-caucus-2/,"McCormick, Hickenlooper Announce Formation of Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) announced the formation of the U.S. Senate Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus to highlight and elevate American scientific research and the application of those discoveries to promote innovation. Caucus members will work together with industry leaders and the research community to develop policies that promote U.S. leadership in science.

“America’s economic strength and national security have always been powered by our ability to innovate, and that begins with world-class scientific research,” said Senator McCormick. “As we compete to maintain America’s position as the world’s leading superpower, this bipartisan caucus will help unleash the ingenuity of our scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators to drive economic growth, create opportunity, and strengthen our nation.”

“Science propels our economy, saves lives, and solves the problems that once seemed unsolvable,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “This caucus exists for one reason: to make sure Congress is fighting as hard for American innovation as our scientists and researchers are. The stakes are too high for anything less.”

The United States has been a global economic leader for the past 50 years because of our dedication to science, technology, and innovation. Federally-funded research led to the invention of optical fibers, microchips, personal computers, mobile phones, robotics, cutting-edge medicine, and more.

Jobs in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine make up 34% of the U.S. workforce.

Economic activity from these fields generates 39% of U.S. GDP – over $10 trillion dollars.

The United States spends only 3% of its GDP on research and development (R&D) and innovation.

Federally funded R&D dollars are doubled in returns: every $1 invested generates nearly $2 in economic output. This is substantially higher than the returns on other forms of federal investment.

China is overtaking the United States in R&D funding, graduating more PhDs in STEM programs, filing more international patents than the U.S., and narrowing the gap on venture capital investment.

The Bipartisan Science and Innovation Caucus plans to host briefings, engage in roundtables and other conversations about existing and new policies, and provide a venue for discourse about new legislation to boost American scientific research and our STEM workforce.

A kickoff event celebrating the caucus will be held on Monday, September 14th at the United States Capitol.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-fetterman-celebrate-96-million-rail-vehicle-replacement-program-investment-in-prt-septa/,"MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN CELEBRATE $96 MILLION RAIL VEHICLE REPLACEMENT PROGRAM INVESTMENT IN PRT, SEPTA",2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"FREDERICKSBURG, PA — Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) announced a combined $96 million in grant awards for Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)’s Rail Vehicle Replacement Program. These awards will support the replacement of PRT’s aging Light Rail (“T”) fleet and SEPTA’s 50-year-old Silverliner IV Regional Rail cars.

“This $96 million investment is a major win for Pennsylvania transit riders. It will help PRT and SEPTA replace aging vehicles with modern fleets that increase capacity, improve reliability, and deliver better service for the thousands of Pennsylvanians who rely on public transportation every day,” said Senator McCormick. “I was proud to advocate for this funding and appreciate the Federal Transit Administration’s support for these critical transportation systems.”

“Hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians across our commonwealth rely on public transit to get where they need to go every day. Investments like these matter,” said Senator Fetterman. “These grants will make service on the T in Pittsburgh and across the Regional Rail system in Philly safer and more reliable for riders. I’m proud to have fought for this critical funding.”

PRT’s $82,774,074 award will support the replacement of its aging light rail fleet. Much of PRT’s existing fleet has exceeded its intended service life, which has caused growing maintenance challenges, significant reliability concerns, and increased operating costs on the T. Senator McCormick penned a letter of support of PRT’s grant application to FTA Acting Executive Director Jamie Pfister in July. Senator Fetterman also wrote a letter of support for the project.

SEPTA’s $13,263,248 award will support the replacement of its Silverliner IV fleet with new Silverliner VI rail cars. Dating back to the mid-1970s, the Silverliner IVs are among the oldest operating passenger rail cars in the country, and they represent two-thirds of SEPTA’s Regional Rail fleet. A new Silverliner VI fleet will provide safer and more accessible service for passengers, while reducing the maintenance costs necessary to keep the Silverliner IVs in service.

“I’m thrilled we’ve brought this substantial investment in rail cars home to Allegheny County and thank you to our federal partners who helped secure these important funds for PRT,” said County Executive Sara Innamorato. “Strategic investments in our fleet help ensure reliability and improve accessibility for our riders. Modernizing the PRT system for today’s riders and future generations is a legacy we can all be proud of.”

“I want to thank everyone who played a role in making this funding possible,” said PRT CEO Katharine Kelleman. “This investment will help us move forward with a new fleet of rail cars that will provide riders with a safer, more accessible, more comfortable, and more reliable experience for decades to come.”

“This grant will help SEPTA jump-start the purchase of new Regional Rail cars to replace our current fleet, which dates back more than 50 years. We are grateful for the efforts of our Congressional Delegation to fund this program and support our application,” said SEPTA General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “SEPTA has established a robust maintenance program to keep the current fleet operating safely and reliably, and we look forward to delivering these new vehicles for our customers.”

###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/chobanis-1-2-billion-investment-in-lehigh-valley-plant-is-a-vote-of-confidence-in-pennsylvania-workers-farms-and-manufacturing/,"CHOBANI’S $1.2 BILLION INVESTMENT IN LEHIGH VALLEY PLANT IS A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN PENNSYLVANIA WORKERS, FARMS, AND MANUFACTURING",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"$1.2 billion investment will create 900 full-time jobs and represent the largest increase in demand for Pennsylvania dairy in state history

LEHIGH VALLEY, PA — Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today welcomed Chobani’s $1.2 billion investment in a 1.5 million-square-foot manufacturing facility in Upper Macungie Township. The plant will bring 900 full-time jobs to the Lehigh Valley over the next five years and open new markets for more than 4,000 Pennsylvania dairy farmers.

This investment announced today is expected to create the largest increase in demand for Pennsylvania dairy in the Commonwealth’s history. Once fully operational, the facility is projected to process more than three billion pounds of Pennsylvania milk annually, which represents about 30 percent of all milk currently produced in the state.

Senator McCormick has known Chobani Founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya for years, and has long admired his vision, his commitment to doing well by doing good, and his willingness to invest for the long term. That relationship, paired with months of work by the Governor’s team alongside Chobani’s leadership, helped move this project from early interest to a finished deal in Pennsylvania.

“When an innovative company like Chobani chooses to invest in Pennsylvania, it’s a vote of confidence in our workers, our farms, and our manufacturing strength,” said Senator McCormick. “I’ve known Hamdi Ulukaya and Chobani President and COO Kevin Burns for decades, and both are exceptional business leaders. I was proud to work alongside Chobani’s leadership and the Governor’s team to help bring this investment home. It will mean good jobs, new opportunities for our dairy farmers, and more economic growth in the Lehigh Valley.”

This Upper Macungie Township facility will add to the Lehigh Valley’s manufacturing base with production, maintenance, and logistics jobs, plus construction work as the plant comes online. Those paychecks, in turn, will support the restaurants, suppliers, and small businesses around them.

“Pennsylvania has the workers, the farms, and the know-how to support an investment of this scale,” Senator McCormick continued. “This investment will create real opportunity for thousands of dairy farm families, processors, haulers, and communities across the Commonwealth and I’m proud of the work our team did to help bring this investment to Pennsylvania.”

###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-coonsintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-nih-mentorship-and-support-next-generation-of-biomedical-researchers/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND COONS INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO STRENGTHEN NIH MENTORSHIP AND SUPPORT NEXT GENERATION OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCHERS,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Chris Coons (D-DE) today introduced the NIH Mentorship Modernization Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s scientific workforce pipeline by formalizing consistent, evidence-based mentorship standards across National Institutes of Health (NIH) career development and research training programs.

The biomedical research enterprise depends on a steady pipeline of talent, but too many early-stage investigators leave the field for the private sector before they ever reach an R01 grant, the traditional marker of an independent research career. This attrition point, the gap between early career development awards and R01-level funding, is one of the most vulnerable stages in a researcher’s career and a critical juncture where the nation risks losing its most promising scientific talent. Strong mentorship has been shown to help early-career researchers navigate this gap, stay in the research pipeline, and go on to lead their own research programs.

The legislation formalizes mentorship as a standard part of NIH-funded career development and training programs, giving young, accomplished researchers the structured support they need to remain in research rather than exit the industry. It builds on existing mentorship practices, preserves flexibility for research institutions, and minimizes unnecessary administrative burden by relying on NIH’s existing reporting requirements.

“America’s leadership in biomedical research depends on developing the next generation of scientific talent,” said Senator McCormick. “Strong mentorship helps young researchers succeed, drives innovation, and ensures taxpayer investments in medical research deliver lasting results. As the fourth-largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation, Pennsylvania has a strong stake in maintaining a world-class biomedical research workforce. This bipartisan legislation strengthens that pipeline while giving institutions the flexibility they need to build on what already works.”

“The next generation of scientists will contain the next generation of disease outbreaks and cure the next generation of illnesses, but first those scientists must be properly prepared for their careers,” said Senator Coons. “Mentorship is a powerful way of ensuring we have capable and qualified researchers to keep our nation healthy.”

Studies consistently show that researchers with engaged mentors are more likely to remain in research careers, secure independent grant funding, publish impactful research, advance professionally, and report greater career satisfaction.

The National Institutes of Health supports thousands of early-career researchers through career development and research training awards. While many of these programs include mentored research experiences, mentorship expectations vary considerably across institutions.

Pennsylvania, which ranks fourth in the nation in NIH funding, is uniquely positioned to benefit from a stronger biomedical research workforce. In Fiscal Year 2024, NIH grants supported 21,740 Pennsylvania jobs and generated $5.31 billion in economic activity statewide. NIH-driven commercialization has also contributed to the creation of 3,710 Pennsylvania businesses and 97,374 jobs in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Across the country, NIH awarded $36.94 billion in research funding in Fiscal Year 2024, supporting 407,782 jobs and generating $94.58 billion in economic activity nationwide. Every $1 invested in NIH-funded research generates approximately $2.56 in economic activity, underscoring the importance of maintaining a strong pipeline of talented biomedical researchers.

The NIH Mentorship Modernization Act would:

Establish minimum, evidence-based mentorship standards for designated NIH career development, institutional training, fellowship, research education, and other research training awards.

Build on existing institutional mentorship programs by minimizing duplicative requirements and allowing comparable programs to satisfy NIH standards.

Require institutions to certify compliance with NIH mentorship standards while encouraging the dissemination of evidence-based mentorship practices across the biomedical research enterprise.

Authorize NIH to provide supplemental funding or other institutional support to help institutions implement the mentorship standards.

Require NIH to periodically review and update mentorship standards to reflect evolving evidence-based practices and applies the new framework prospectively, with a two-year implementation period and voluntary early adoption for existing award.

“Last year, the NIH invested more than $2.6 billion across more than 3,700 research projects in Pennsylvania. These investments support early-stage discovery, clinical research, workforce development, and the commercialization of lifesaving treatment,” said Christopher P. Molineaux, President & CEO of Life Sciences Pennsylvania. “This legislation acknowledges the critical importance of training and mentorship in building the next generation of life sciences leaders and will help ensure Pennsylvania scientists, researchers and business leaders have the support and guidance necessary to advance groundbreaking research and innovation for patients.”

“Mentorship is foundational to developing the next generation of biomedical researchers. By supporting mentor training and establishing clear standards, this legislation recognizes the critical role mentorship plays in helping trainees and early-career investigators and builds on the important work already underway across academic medicine to elevate mentorship as a core component of research training. Investing in mentorship is an investment in the future of biomedical discovery and patient care,” said Emma A. Meagher, MD, Senior Vice Dean, Clinical & Translational Research, Perelman School of Medicine and Vice President, University of Pennsylvania Health System.

Review the full text of the bill for more information.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-hickenlooper-hoeven-curtis-and-cortez-masto-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-for-rural-and-municipal-utilities/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, HICKENLOOPER, HOEVEN, CURTIS, AND CORTEZ MASTO INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN CYBERSECURITY FOR RURAL AND MUNICIPAL UTILITIES",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), John Hoeven (R-ND), John Curtis (R-UT), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) introduced the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize a critical federal grant program that helps rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities strengthen their cybersecurity defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

The legislation reauthorizes the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant and Technical Assistance Program at the Department of Energy, which provides rural electric cooperatives and publicly owned utilities with the resources, technical assistance, and support they need to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks. The bill serves as the Senate companion to bipartisan legislation which unanimously passed the House of Representatives earlier this year.

“America’s electric grid is a critical piece of our national security, and every utility—regardless of size or location—must have the resources to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats,” said Senator McCormick. “Rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities serve millions of Americans, including communities across Pennsylvania, but often operate with fewer cybersecurity resources than larger utilities. This bipartisan legislation will help ensure they have the support they need to protect our energy infrastructure and keep the lights on.”

“America needs clean, reliable, affordable, and secure energy,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, our bill enables rural cooperatives and utilities to defend against sophisticated attacks, protect consumers, and keep energy affordable.”

“Malicious actors and foreign adversaries are targeting America’s infrastructure, and that is why we introduced legislation to support electric cooperatives and utility providers as they work to harden critical energy infrastructure against cyberattacks. Doing so will help ensure the resilience of the electrical grid, supporting both our economic and national security while ensuring important services remain available in an era of increasing cyber threats,” said Senator Hoeven.

“Our rural and municipal utilities are increasingly on the front lines of protecting the electric grid from cyber threats,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill makes a smart investment in safeguarding critical infrastructure, supporting local utilities, and keeping the lights on for communities across America.”

“I was proud to help establish this grant program in the bipartisan infrastructure law to help rural utilities protect themselves from cybersecurity threats,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This program has proven incredibly successful and there is bipartisan support to reauthorize it. As new cyber threats continue to emerge, I’ll keep working to ensure our rural communities have what they need to adapt.”

Cyberattacks targeting America’s energy infrastructure have become more frequent and more sophisticated in recent years. Rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities often face unique resource constraints that make federal cybersecurity assistance especially valuable. The RMUC Grant Program helps eligible utilities improve cybersecurity preparedness through grants, technical assistance, and workforce development, helping strengthen the resilience of the nation’s electric grid.

The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act would:

Reauthorize the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant and Technical Assistance Program through 2031.

Continue providing grants and technical assistance to rural electric cooperatives and municipally-owned utilities to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities.

Help eligible utilities prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats.

Support cybersecurity planning, workforce development, vulnerability assessments, and other activities that improve the resilience of the electric grid.

Strengthen partnerships between the federal government and locally owned utilities to protect America’s critical energy infrastructure.

Authorize $250 million over five years to support these efforts.

Read the full bill text here.

The legislation is supported by utility organizations representing electric cooperatives and public power providers across Pennsylvania and the country.

“Pennsylvania’s electric cooperatives thank Senator Dave McCormick for introducing the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act. Cyber threats don’t distinguish between a large investor-owned utility and an electric cooperative serving rural communities, but the resources to defend against them are far from equal. By reauthorizing this program, Senator McCormick is making sure the cooperatives that keep the lights on across rural Pennsylvania have the tools and the federal partnership they need to protect the grid our members and our country depend on.” – Steve Brame, President & CEO, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association and Allegheny Electric Cooperative

“Pennsylvania’s municipal electric utilities are on the front lines of protecting our communities’ power supply — and cybersecurity threats don’t distinguish between large investor-owned utilities and the small, locally-owned systems that serve our boroughs. The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act reauthorizes a critical program that gives public power utilities access to the technical assistance and funding they need to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats. PMEA supports Senator McCormick’s proposal and urges Congress to advance this bipartisan legislation. Alongside our national partner, the American Public Power Association, we believe that securing our grid starts at the local level — and that no utility should face these evolving threats alone or without resources.” – Jeffrey Stonehill, President, Pennsylvania Municipal Electric Association

“The American Public Power Association applauds Senator McCormick for moving to reauthorize the Rural and Municipal Utility Advanced Cybersecurity (RMUC) Grant Program. This is a proven, practical investment that helps not-for-profit public power utilities strengthen their cyber defenses in the face of increasingly sophisticated threats. With RMUC support, APPA has launched the Cyber Accelerator Program to help utilities assess their readiness and take concrete steps to improve their security posture. We urge Congress to act quickly to extend this program and ensure every community has access to the tools needed to protect our nation’s energy infrastructure.” – Scott Corwin, President & CEO, American Public Power Association

“Cyber threats to America’s electric grid are growing more sophisticated by the day, and rural utilities depend on their partnerships with the government to help keep the grid secure. The Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Program is closing the resource gap and equipping electric cooperatives with the tools they need to protect the electrical infrastructure on which millions of Americans depend. We’re grateful for the leadership of Senators McCormick, Curtis, Hickenlooper, Hoeven, and Cortez Masto in introducing this reauthorization.” – Jim Matheson, CEO, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-kaine-ricketts-and-hassan-introduce-bipartisan-campus-lifeline-act-to-strengthen-student-mental-health-and-suicide-prevention/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, KAINE, RICKETTS AND HASSAN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN CAMPUS LIFELINE ACT TO STRENGTHEN STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH AND SUICIDE PREVENTION",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Legislation Expands Student-Led Mental Health Programs and Increases Awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) today introduced the bipartisan Campus Lifeline Act, legislation to strengthen student mental health and suicide prevention efforts by expanding student-led outreach on college campuses and increasing awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young Americans, with nearly one in five high school students reporting suicidal thoughts. Congress has supported youth suicide prevention through the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act (GLSMA), which provides grants to colleges and universities to improve mental health and substance use disorder services, suicide prevention programming, and student outreach. Research shows peer-to-peer engagement can play an important role in identifying students in crisis and connecting them with appropriate support.

The launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has also expanded access to immediate behavioral health support, but awareness of the resource among college students remains inconsistent. The Campus Lifeline Act builds on existing federal efforts by strengthening peer-led outreach and helping colleges connect students with lifesaving mental health resources before a crisis escalates.

“No family should have to experience the heartbreak of losing a child, classmate, relative, or friend to suicide,” said Senator McCormick. “Students are often the first to recognize when someone is struggling. The Campus Lifeline Act strengthens peer-led mental health efforts, expands awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and gives colleges additional tools to connect students with support before a crisis becomes a tragedy.”

“We can and must do more about the alarming spike in anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation that we’ve seen among young people across the country over the last 15 years,” said Senator Kaine. “That includes encouraging schools to take commonsense steps to ensure that students know that help is out there, including through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that is free and available 24/7. This bipartisan legislation would help do that, and I encourage all of my colleagues to join us in pushing to get it signed into law as quickly as possible.”

“The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides critical support for those struggling with their mental health. As Governor, I was proud to lead the effort to make this resource available to every Nebraskan. The Campus Lifeline Act would increase awareness of this resource and others available to students nationwide. Every student deserves to know that they are not alone, and help is there if they need it,” said Senator Ricketts.

“Young people in crisis need to know where to turn for help. This bipartisan bill would encourage colleges to put information about 988, the suicide and crisis hotline, on student IDs to increase awareness about this lifesaving resource. In addition, it would encourage colleges to develop plans for peer outreach about the 988 hotline, making it easier for people to get the support that they need,” said Senator Hassan.

Specifically, the Campus Lifeline Act would:

• Expand eligible Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act campus mental health grants to support student organizations promoting peer mental health awareness, suicide prevention, substance use disorder education, and campus awareness campaigns.

• Expand peer education programs to help students recognize and appropriately respond to warning signs of mental health and substance use disorders.

• Require grant applicants to seek student input and ensure outreach and behavioral health resources are accessible to students enrolled in online, hybrid, and distance-learning programs.

• Expand technical assistance to both grant recipients and unsuccessful applicants implementing evidence-based campus mental health programs.

• Encourage states and colleges to promote the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline through student ID cards and campus awareness campaigns.

This bill has bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House. Representatives Erin Houchin (R-IN), Lori Trahan (D-MA), David Valado (R-CA), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) are sponsoring companion legislation, H.R. 8657, in the House of Representatives.

The Campus Lifeline Act has received support from over 35 organizations including: Active Minds, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Group Psychotherapy Association, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association Services, American School Counselor Association, Association for Ambulatory Behavioral Healthcare (AABH), Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action, EDGE Partners, Inseparable, Institute for Educational Leadership, International OCD Foundation, International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses, Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, Mental Health America, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of School Psychologists, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National Board for Certified Counselors, National Council on Problem Gambling, National Eating Disorders Association, National Federation of Families, National League for Nursing, National Register of Health Service Psychologists, Psychotherapy Action Network (PsiAN), REDC Consortium, Sandy Hook Promise, The Kennedy Forum, The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health, The Trevor Project, Vibrant Emotional Health, Youth Villages.

“At Active Minds, we believe that every student deserves access to mental health support before they reach a crisis. We are grateful to the U.S. Senators for coming together across party lines to champion this effort, which recognizes that supporting young people’s mental health is not a partisan issue, it should be a national priority. By strengthening campus mental health resources and expanding access to evidence-based supports, this legislation will help ensure more youth and young adults can get the care they need, when they need it,” said Anika Rahman, Director of Policy, Active Minds.

“At SAVE, through our The Green Bandana Project program, we work with high school and college students across the country and see firsthand how important connection and accessible support are,” said Erich Mische, CEO of SAVE, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education. “The Campus Lifeline Act will help remove barriers by including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on newly issued student ID cards and investing in youth-informed mental health strategies on college campuses. SAVE strongly endorses this legislation and looks forward to working with Senator McCormick and members of both parties to make it law.”

The full bill text may be read here.

###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-fetterman-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-addiction-treatment-workforce/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO STRENGTHEN ADDICTION TREATMENT WORKFORCE",2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today introduced the Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act, bipartisan legislation to help communities hit hardest by the opioid and fentanyl crisis by recruiting, training, and strengthening the workforce needed to support addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery.

The legislation modernizes the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, giving state and local workforce boards new tools to respond to the workforce impacts of substance use disorders, with opioids at the center of the crisis in Pennsylvania.

“In Pennsylvania, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating toll fentanyl and opioids have taken on our families and communities,” said Senator McCormick. “If we’re going to help more people recover, we need enough skilled workers to provide that care. This bipartisan bill gives communities more tools to train that workforce so more people can get the help they need.”

“Countless families have been torn apart as a result of the rampant opioid crisis, which especially impacts our workforce right here in PA. The need for treatment, recovery, and other support services is real,” said Senator Fetterman. “I’m proud to join my friend Senator McCormick in introducing the Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act to open up federal workforce development investments to help workers and families fight back against this epidemic.”

Pennsylvania has made significant progress against the opioid and fentanyl crisis. Fentanyl killed approximately 4,000 Pennsylvanians each year from 2020 through 2023, and preliminary data indicate that figure fell to approximately 1,500 in 2025, the lowest level in a decade. Sustaining that progress will require a strong workforce capable of delivering prevention, treatment, recovery, and other behavioral health services. The Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act gives communities the workforce tools needed to meet that demand.

Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).

The Workforce Recovery and Resilience Act would:

Direct the Department of Labor to evaluate and annually share promising, evidence-based workforce strategies for communities responding to substance use disorder.

Expand the use of National Dislocated Worker Grants to support employment and training activities related to addiction prevention, treatment, mental health care, and pain management in communities where demand exceeds available state and local resources.

Broaden eligibility for these grants to include dislocated workers, long-term unemployed individuals, individuals who are unemployed or significantly underemployed as a result of widespread substance use in their area, and individuals employed or seeking employment in health care professions involved in substance use disorder prevention and treatment.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-duckworth-introduce-bill-to-expand-low-cost-financing-for-transportation-infrastructure/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, DUCKWORTH INTRODUCE BILL TO EXPAND LOW-COST FINANCING FOR TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE",2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today introduced the Transit for Urban Renewal and Business Opportunities Act (TURBO Act), legislation that would expand and modernize a key federal financing tool used by state and local governments to deliver critical transportation infrastructure through public-private partnerships.

Private Activity Bonds (PABs) are tax-exempt bonds that state and local governments issue on behalf of private entities to finance projects that serve a public purpose. Administered by the Build America Bureau within the U.S. Department of Transportation, PABs are a critical tool for attracting private-sector investment in highways, transit, and freight infrastructure. But the national volume cap for qualified highway and surface freight transfer facilities has been exhausted, with the current $30 billion cap fully allocated.

Beyond the cap, outdated rules also prevent communities from using these bonds for many of today’s transportation needs. Current law generally allows the bonds to finance the construction of rail and bus infrastructure, but not the purchase of rolling stock. It also limits eligibility for passenger rail projects to those capable of reaching 150 miles per hour, leaving many modern rail projects that operate on shared freight corridors ineligible for this low-cost financing.

The TURBO Act would:

Raise the national volume cap for qualified highway and surface freight transfer facilities from $30 billion to $45 billion, ensuring that critical transportation projects can continue to access low-cost financing through public-private partnerships.

Expand the eligibility of mass commuting facility bonds to explicitly cover the acquisition of rolling stock — such as buses, railcars, and ferries — lowering the cost of modernizing transit fleets and letting local communities determine their own infrastructure needs.

Lower the speed threshold for high-speed intercity rail facilities from 150 miles per hour to 110 miles per hour, opening PAB financing to a far wider range of passenger rail investments, including projects that operate on shared rights-of-way with freight railroads.

“America’s transportation needs are growing, and we should be making it easier, not harder, for states and communities to finance the projects that keep goods and people moving,” said Senator McCormick. “The TURBO Act modernizes a proven, low-cost financing tool critical so highway, transit, and rail projects in Pennsylvania can move forward. By expanding capacity and cutting outdated red tape, we can unlock more private investment in Pennsylvania and across the country.”

“Far too often, roads that need repaving and transportation facilities that need revamping are left unfixed because states and towns don’t have the funding they need,” said Senator Duckworth. “Our bipartisan bill would help state and local governments supercharge their infrastructure financing—enabling them to deliver faster on projects, replace old buses, improve inter-city passenger rail and more. It’s critical we build on the incredible progress of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and this commonsense legislation would help us do just that.”

Congress created this financing category in the 2005 Surface Transportation Authorization (SAFETEA-LU), which set the national cap at $15 billion, and doubled it to $30 billion on a bipartisan basis in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). With nearly all of that expanded capacity now committed, communities risk losing access to affordable financing for major projects at a time when infrastructure demands continue to grow.

The TURBO Act is supported by the following stakeholders:

“Pennsylvania’s public transportation systems need reliable, flexible financing tools to modernize fleets, improve infrastructure, and continue providing safe, dependable service,” said Kim Whetsell, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association (PPTA). “The Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association applauds Senators McCormick and Duckworth for introducing the TURBO Act, which would expand financing opportunities and help transit agencies make strategic, long-term investments. This legislation is an important step toward strengthening public transportation across the Commonwealth, and we encourage Congress to advance it. We thank Senators McCormick and Duckworth for their leadership and commitment to the future of public transit.”

“SEPTA operates the oldest rail vehicle fleet in the nation, and replacing four major rail fleets at once is an unprecedented financial challenge that our current capital funding cannot fully support,” said SEPTA General Manager, Scott A. Sauer. “While there is no substitute for dedicated federal investment in the nation’s critical transit infrastructure, the financing modernization provisions in the TURBO Act could give SEPTA access to additional financing options to deliver much needed investments for our customers and the Greater Philadelphia region.”

“Modern, reliable public transportation depends on having the tools to invest in the future,”said Katherine Kelleman, CEO of Pittsburgh Regional Transit. “Pittsburgh Regional Transit applauds Senators McCormick and Duckworth for introducing the TURBO Act,which will expand financing options for transit agencies as they replace aging fleets, upgrade infrastructure and improve service. This legislation will give agencies greater flexibility to make smart, long-term investments that benefit riders and the communities they serve. PRT encourages Congress to advance this critical legislation, and we thank Senators McCormick and Duckworth for their leadership on this issue.”

“The TURBO Act is a smart, forward-thinking solution to expand access to low-cost financing for critical infrastructure and transportation projects,” said Jeff Nobers, Executive Director, Pittsburgh Works Together. “By raising the cap on these bonds and making more passenger rail projects eligible, this bill empowers local communities and encourages public-private partnerships to modernize infrastructure across the country creating thousands of jobs and making it easier for people to access good paying careers.”

“Reliable infrastructure is essential to the competitiveness of American manufacturers” said Jezree Friend, Vice President, Manufacturer & Business Association. “The Manufacturer & Business Association applauds Senator McCormick for introducing theTURBO Act, which expands access to financing tools that will strengthen supply chains, encourage private-sector investment, and modernize our transportation infrastructure. This legislation will help keep Pennsylvania businesses competitive and our economy moving forward.”

“We at the Erie Regional Chamber & Growth Partnership are well aware of the difficulties of financing infrastructure investment in the Erie region, the Commonwealth, and across the nation. The TURBO Act, by raising the limits for Private Activity Bonds, helps solve the problem of infrastructure investment costs and financing. We at the Erie Regional Chamber commend Senators McCormick and Duckworth for this bipartisan solution.” – Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership

Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-unveils-vision-for-american-ai-leadership-in-major-address-at-manhattan-institute/,Senator McCormick Unveils Vision for American AI Leadership in Major Address at Manhattan Institute,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"“America is in an existential race with Communist China for the technologies that will power the future. Even amid uncertainty, we must act with clarity, facts, and a sober recognition that we cannot afford to lose.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today delivered a major policy address at the Manhattan Institute outlining his vision for ensuring the United States leads the artificial intelligence revolution while protecting American workers, strengthening national security, safeguarding children, and building the energy and infrastructure needed to outcompete Communist China.

Senator McCormick emphasized that AI represents one of the most transformative developments in human history and called for a balanced approach that embraces innovation while addressing its most significant changes. He outlined five priorities for policymakers: supporting American workers, expanding economic opportunity, protecting children, strengthening national security, and accelerating the infrastructure needed to power AI leadership.

Watch Senator McCormick’s full speech and Q&A here.

Senator McCormick’s remarks below (as prepared):

“Thank you, Reihan, and thank you to the Manhattan Institute for hosting me. From George Kelling and James Q. Wilson on broken-windows policing to Ed Glaeser’s insights in City Journal, this institution has helped answer the most pressing questions facing our country. It continues to do so under your great leadership.

“It is therefore fitting that we meet under the Manhattan Institute’s banner to discuss one of the most consequential questions of our time: how should America navigate the artificial intelligence revolution?

“The stakes could not be higher, and the answers are not simple. So please bear with me as I lay out a framework for meeting this moment.

THE MOMENT

“Artificial intelligence may be the most transformative development in human history — bigger than the printing press, larger than the Industrial Revolution, more consequential than the race to the moon.

“It is rewiring how we work, how we learn, how we fight, and how we live together.

“I am often asked whether I’m optimistic or pessimistic about this change. I am neither.

“In fact, I am skeptical of both the doomers who predict mass unemployment—and sometimes seem to root against America—and the utopians who promise effortless abundance and resist any guardrails.

“The AI revolution is happening. Our task is to harness it for a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America. Whether we succeed depends on what we do now.

“To be clear, this moment demands humility. I spend more time on AI than many of my Senate colleagues, yet I still do not understand it as well as I should. No one in elected office is fully prepared. Humility must loom large in our minds.

“But humility does not mean inaction. America is in an existential race with Communist China for the technologies that will power the future.

“Even amid uncertainty, we must act with clarity, facts, and a sober recognition that we cannot afford to lose.

THE PROMISES AND RISKS OF AI

“AI is already delivering remarkable benefits: advancing treatments for diseases like pancreatic cancer, making dangerous work safer, and offering a supercomputer to every small business owner and entrepreneur across America.

“It is also transforming warfare. Today’s battlefields look nothing like what I saw in the Gulf War, when I served in the 82nd Airborne.

“But the risks of the AI revolution are equally profound.

“I grew up in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, where the Magee carpet mill employed 2,000 people. It was the biggest employer in town, and many of my friends expected to work there, just as their parents did.

“Then globalization came. The mills slashed jobs. Storefronts emptied. And our town suffered.

“The people I grew up with know what it means to have their future rewritten by big forces beyond their control. Their fear of the AI revolution is rooted in memory.

“We cannot ignore them. We cannot shrug when workers lose their livelihoods. We cannot dismiss parents’ fears that chatbots will exploit their children. We cannot allow the wealthy to capture all the gains, corporations to steamroll communities, or Communist China to grow stronger on stolen American technology.

“These are real issues. They demand our urgent attention, and I would like to spend a few minutes on each.

FIVE CONSIDERATIONS

“The first consideration is the American worker.

“Despite predictions of mass unemployment, early evidence suggests companies investing most heavily in AI are expanding their payrolls. Meanwhile there is so much demand for skilled trades and workers to build energy and AI infrastructure that trade schools can’t keep up.

“Still, AI will eliminate jobs even as it creates others, just as the internet did. Without taking proactive measures, too many workers will be left behind.

“Expanding short-term Pell Grants via the Working Families Tax Cuts was a strong start, but Congress must go further. Employers must also equip workers to thrive alongside AI. We cannot repeat the mistakes of globalization.

“The second consideration is whether the unprecedented wealth creation of the AI revolution reaches the many or remains with the few.

“Capitalism is history’s greatest engine of prosperity. And few have benefited more or will defend it more strongly than I.

“But capitalism has a problem: the top 1% owns nearly a third of America’s wealth, up from less than a quarter in 1989, while the bottom half owns just 2.5%. We should expect AI to widen that divide by delivering extraordinary returns to those who own the models, compute, and equity.

“In response, Bernie Sanders proposes seizing half the industry’s equity. Such a move would cripple the engine of American prosperity. The better answer is to give more Americans an ownership stake in the AI revolution.

“Invest America accounts and school-choice tax credits offer promising models of voluntary investments in fellow Americans, but the scale of this challenge demands more. I challenge serious thinkers—including those at this institution—to help preserve capitalism by increasing access to its benefits.

“The third question is how we protect our children in the AI age.

“Technology that exploits a child’s vulnerability or identity has no place in the American marketplace.

“Congress and the Administration should establish national safeguards. We should bar social media for children under sixteen, and we should abolish AI models that groom, sexualize, deceive, or prey on minors. I am proud to support legislation that does just that.

“The fourth consideration is national security. If Communist China wins the AI race, it will gain military, economic, and technological supremacy. We must out-innovate China while denying it our most advanced tools. Congress should pass my Remote Access Security Act to block Chinese access to advanced chips through the cloud, and the Administration should continue cracking down on IP theft and industrial-scale distillation.

“At home, innovation—including open-source and open-weight development—must remain the default. President Trump deserves enormous credit for accelerating innovation through the AI action plan. Any regulatory review should be swift and light, except for models posing credible biological, cyber, or nuclear risks, which demand extraordinary scrutiny.

“The Administration should continue its good work with industry to establish clear standards, potentially through a FINRA-style framework encompassing frontier labs, open-source developers, startups, investors, workers, and users.

“The fifth and final consideration is whether we will build the infrastructure American AI leadership requires. I want to spend more time here, because it is so contentious and so important, and because Pennsylvania is on the front lines.

DATA CENTERS

“To win the AI race, we must build more compute. That means more energy to power data centers, more chips to fill them, and more workers to support the boom already underway.

“Building at that scale requires permitting reform. Today, $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investment is stuck in permitting limbo. My Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act would unleash that capital and create new construction and jobs.

“However, we must also reckon with the growing opposition to data centers on both sides of the aisle.

“Two weeks ago, Governor Kathy Hochul signed the nation’s first statewide moratorium on hyperscale data centers. Senator Sanders and Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez have proposed a national one. More than 300 local bans have passed, and 74 percent of Pennsylvania voters say they would oppose building an AI data center in their community.

“I understand the concerns. No American should face higher power or water bills or have a hulking facility dropped into his backyard.

“But the choice is not between a moratorium and a runaway buildout that steamrolls communities. That false choice threatens America’s future.

“Our adversaries understand the stakes. Chinese and Russian outlets warn Americans that data centers will raise bills and drain water even as Beijing cuts power costs for its own AI facilities.

“When an adversary urges you to stop building what he is racing to build, pay attention.

“But in business, when things go wrong, you can’t only point fingers. You must look hard at what you’ve done. And, ladies and gentlemen, the industry has failed that test.

“Hyperscalers and developers have bought land through shell companies, arrived at hearings with lawyers instead of answers, and hidden basic details about power, water, and land use. Communities are saying no because industry has not earned their trust.

“There is a better path.“To begin with, local officials should learn the risks and opportunities for themselves. A group of Pennsylvania township supervisors recently visited data centers in Loudoun County, Virginia. Most arrived skeptical; nearly all returned more open to them.

“Armed with the facts, communities and companies should strike a covenant built on four pillars.

“First, protect ratepayers. Developers should pay for their own power and transmission needs and stop seeking tax abatements and special treatment. The President’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge is a strong start.

“Second, protect land and water through efficient cooling, responsible siting, and strict compliance with permits. My bipartisan Liquid Cooling for AI Act would promote more energy- and water-efficient standards.

“Third, benefit the community. Hire locally. Buy American. Support local schools and businesses. Invest beyond tax payments.

“Fourth, be transparent. Put power, water, land, timelines, and tax treatment on the table early, in plain language, while communities can still shape the agreement. If you want me with you on the landing, include me on the takeoff.

“I have seen this work across Pennsylvania. At Homer City and Shippingport, new gas-fired power plants will power data centers and put a gigawatt each of new power on the grid. Elsewhere, developers such as Blackstone and QTS are engaging neighbors early and investing in infrastructure, workers, and long-term tax-base growth.

“Developers who honor this covenant will find willing partners across Pennsylvania and the nation. But local leaders who reflexively reject data centers risk forfeiting incredible opportunities for investment and job creation in their communities.

FREEDOM’S FORGE

“These are the five big considerations before us today: our jobs, our wealth, our children, our national security, and our infrastructure.

“We don’t need a comprehensive rulebook for AI in order to address these questions.

“In fact, it would be a fool’s errand to write one. Too much is changing. Too much remains unknown. Too much is at stake.

“What we need, however, is a level of coordination between government and industry that has been sadly missing for some time.

“America has faced existential tests before. In the lead-up to World War II, the federal government set the objective, opened the order books, convened industry, and let builders build. The result was the greatest industrial mobilization in history, with Pennsylvania leading the Arsenal of Democracy.

“Government, industry, and workers formed Freedom’s Forge.

“We need a similar alliance today—uniting federal, state, and local government, business, capital, and labor behind a safer, more prosperous America and holding the builders and beneficiaries of that future accountable.

“We saw a glimpse of it last year at the Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, which Dina and I hosted in Pittsburgh. President Trump, Governor Shapiro, and leaders from energy, AI, finance, labor, and our universities announced $92 billion in new investment and tens of thousands of jobs.

“Our task is to build on examples like this. Embrace the future without leaving workers behind, protect our children without freezing innovation, broaden prosperity without abandoning capitalism, and beat China without sacrificing the liberties that distinguish us.

“This moment demands leadership and alignment across all levels of society. If we meet the AI revolution with humility, clarity, and faith in the American worker, it can usher in the next great American century.

“The future is up to us. We are the masters of our fate.

“Thank you.”

###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-announces-nearly-10-billion-in-new-investment-supporting-4000-pennsylvania-jobs-at-2026-pennsylvania-defense-and-innovation-summit-2/,"Senator McCormick Announces $10 Billion in New Investment supporting Nearly 5,000 Pennsylvania Jobs at 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Editor’s Note (July 16, 2026): This release has been updated to reflect Lockheed Martin’s announcement.

CARLISLE, PA — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) brought together the nation’s top defense, technology, and finance leaders at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, for the first-ever Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit. The two-day Summit advanced President Trump’s vision of Peace through Strength and catalyzed more than $10 billion in new investment supporting nearly 5,000 Pennsylvania jobs. Over 30 individual announcements were made advancing American shipbuilding, munitions, space industry, innovation, and emerging technologies such as AI and robotics.

Over two days, more than 1,300 attendees — including 600-plus C-level executives, representatives from 500-plus organizations and more than 130 exhibitor booths — took part in over 1,500 meetings connecting investors, suppliers, workforce leaders, university researchers, warfighters, and Department of War officials.

“Pennsylvania has powered American defense since the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps were founded in Philadelphia in 1775. That legacy carried us through the Arsenal of Democracy in World War II, and it’s carrying us today through advanced manufacturing, robotics, AI, and space,” said Senator McCormick. “This week, that legacy translated into results with nearly $10 billion in new investment and supporting over 5,000 jobs for Pennsylvania workers. President Trump has laid out a bold vision for American strength, and Pennsylvania is proving it can deliver, bringing the innovation, the workforce, and the will to build it.”

The list of announcements falls into three categories: 1) Defense Industrial Base, 2) Emerging Technology, and 3) R&D and Workforce.

Strengthening the Defense Industrial Base

Rhoads Industries & General Dynamics Electric Boat (Philadelphia) — A 10-year, $2.5 billion strategic agreement for advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding to support U.S. Navy submarine construction from the Philadelphia Navy Yard, supporting approximately 1,350 jobs through 2035.

Hanwha Group / Hanwha Philadelphia Shipyard (Philadelphia) — New ship orders for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel through the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD), valued at $1.5 billion in program costs and supporting over 2,000 jobs.

JPMorganChase (Philadelphia) — Nearly $25 million ($18 million in loans and investments, plus almost $6 million in grants) to strengthen Philadelphia’s shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing sector, helping expand a submarine manufacturing facility projected to create 450 permanent jobs, training hundreds of workers, and supporting up to 100 maritime suppliers.

Day & Zimmermann (Philadelphia) — $2.3 billion contract to provide operations, maintenance, and modernization for the Hawthorne Army Depot in Nevada, delivered from its Philadelphia operations.

EOS (Pittsburgh) — A strategic partnership with the Department of War to enhance the resilience of national defense infrastructure. Eos was awarded a Golden Dome for America contract to integrate mission-ready long-duration energy storage supporting requirements of the nation’s defense shield.

JWF Industries (Windber, Cambria County) — More than $500 million in anticipated new defense manufacturing contracts and long-term agreements, alongside a 200,000-square-foot facility expansion supporting approximately 200 new jobs by December 2027.

Mack Defense (Allentown) — An additional Army order for 115 Heavy Dump Trucks for the Army National Guard, bringing 2026 orders to 208 trucks worth more than $84 million under a five-year contract worth up to $221.8 million.

Air, formerly Govini (Pittsburgh) — A 10-year, $450 million expansion of its Pittsburgh office, expected to add 40 jobs.

Attalon (new headquarters in Philadelphia) — An 80,000-square-foot facility opening in 2027 that more than quadruples U.S. precision coatings production for guided munitions, representing $30 million-plus in investment and 100 jobs.

Kratos Defense (York) — A new 167,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing facility, Kratos’ third in Pennsylvania, backed by more than $7 million in new production equipment and supporting 440-plus employees statewide.

Karman Space & Defense (Horsham, Montgomery County) — A $2.7 million expansion to test and qualify advanced material technologies for the Navy surface fleet, creating about 20 new jobs and retaining 40.

Advanced Cooling Technologies (Lancaster) — A new 50,000-square-foot cold plate facility and expanded heat pipe production for satellites, defense systems, and AI data centers, with plans to hire up to 100 employees.

Sphere Brake Defense (Erie) — A $4.5 million U.S. Marine Corps contract for certification and production of sphere brake kits for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle fleet, supporting three additional Erie hires.

Acutronic Group (Pittsburgh) — A $14–30 million investment in a new Pittsburgh facility — the world’s largest dedicated to rate tables, hardware-in-the-loop simulators, and stabilized platforms — expected to double its Pennsylvania workforce (about 100 jobs) over five years.

U.S. Metal Powders / AMPAL (Palmerton, Carbon County) — A fourth production line expanding aluminum powder capacity to 52 million pounds annually, adding spherical aluminum powder for solid rocket motor propellant and missile defense programs ($10 million, 15 new jobs).

Firepoint Energy (Tunnelton, Indiana County) — A pilot facility converting waste coal into synthetic jet fuel, power, and critical minerals, with testing showing 12 of the 13 minerals sought by the Department of War present in the feedstock ($170 million–$2 billion, 50 jobs).

Qintel (Pittsburgh) — An $84 million multi-year contract with U.S. Cyber Command, adding to existing work with the FBI, HSI, USSS, IRS, and Intelligence Community partners, from a 100-person, fully bootstrapped Pittsburgh headquarters.

Lockheed Martin (Lackawanna County) — A $60 million+ investment to expand its Archbald facility, creating approximately 700 new jobs. The investment will double the size of the facility, expand production of critical munitions capabilities, and strengthen America’s defense industrial base.

Fielding Emerging Technology — AI, Autonomy & Space

Blade Diagnostics (Pittsburgh) — The U.S. Air Force is expanding Blade’s SmartBlend engine sustainment platform across the entire F-35 fleet, with projected savings of $1–2 billion.

Carnegie Robotics (Pittsburgh) — Selected for Phase III of the Army’s GEARS/ATV-S autonomous ground logistics program, positioning the company for a future production opportunity worth up to $400 million across more than 750 Army tactical logistics vehicles.

Reflection (Pittsburgh) — Entered agreements to serve as an open-model AI provider to the Department of Energy and the Pentagon.

Voyager Technologies & Astrobotic (Pittsburgh) — Completed an acquisition of Astrobotic (rebranded Voyager Lunar Systems, retaining approximately 150 Pittsburgh jobs) valued at up to $300 million, alongside a roughly $297 million NASA task order for lunar surface delivery.

Deepwave Digital (Berks County) — Deploying RF AI systems, now in low-rate initial production flight tests with the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, to protect American aircraft and crews ($30–70 million).

Aalyria Technologies (Pittsburgh) — Signed on to use a new DIU-funded Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) in Pittsburgh, growing its local team with CMU and Pitt talent.

Parallax Advanced Research & RIDC (Pittsburgh) — Building the new $10 million DIU-funded SCIF in Pittsburgh, enabling classified defense collaboration among government, industry, and academia, anchored by Aalyria, Qintel, Deepwave Digital, and Voicd.

Voicd (Pittsburgh) — A CMU-developed, AI-powered voice intelligence platform that detects deepfake and synthetic speech and authenticates speakers, already adopted by the U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Senate, with patents filed across the U.S., Europe, and China.

Re:Build Manufacturing (New Kensington, Westmoreland County) — Launched a line of U.S.-assembled, NDAA-compliant lithium-ion drone battery packs as part of an $81 million investment to scale Pennsylvania drone manufacturing, expected to create up to 300 jobs.

Building the R&D and Workforce Pipeline

Penn State — A new 10-year Army support agreement (RIGSA), a five-year nuclear research and workforce partnership with Westinghouse (including annual fellowships, 40 paid summer internships, and exploration of a HORIZON research test reactor), and a new START+ gas turbine testing laboratory opening in August to support commercial and military engines, including the F-135, in partnership with the FAA, DOE, and RTX-Pratt & Whitney.

Penn State National Security Institute — Gen. (Ret.) Gary Brito will serve as inaugural chair of the NSI Strategic Advisory Council.

University of Pittsburgh — Launched the MACAM consortium, spanning 13 Department of War medical research labs, CMU, and industry, to advance autonomous battlefield medicine, building on more than $500 million in Department funding since 2019 and $9 million in current MACAM awards.

Trivedi Institute, University of Pittsburgh — New Institute for Space and Global Biomedicine, building Pennsylvania’s space and defense biomedicine ecosystem, with six jobs planned in year one.

Carnegie Mellon University, Carnegie Foundry, ViDARR, and Envision Technology — Launched the Autonomous Systems Manufacturing Platform, leveraging more than $50 million in CMU investment to help U.S. companies rapidly scale secure, domestic production of autonomous systems.

Keystone Space Collaborative — Announced as Pennsylvania’s dedicated statewide space industry organization, alongside a new Tri-State Space Compact with Ohio and West Virginia.

Voyager Technologies & Geisinger Health (Montour County) — A Memorandum of Understanding making Geisinger Health the first biopharma and life sciences tenant of Voyager’s VISTA platform, enabling microgravity-based drug development and research ($1 million).

Voyager Technologies & Penn State — MOU establishing a Penn State presence in the VISTA science park, connecting university researchers to microgravity research aboard the ISS and future commercial stations.

Lackawanna College (Scranton) — A $20 million skilled-trades and technology expansion, including a new Center for Technology and Innovation focused on robotics, energy, and cybersecurity, plus three new skilled trades centers.

QE Manufacturing & Bucknell University — A $70,000 grant funding a 15-month collaboration studying AI-powered automation in precision manufacturing for aerospace and defense.

Pennsylvania College of Technology & BAE Systems (Lycoming County) — BAE renewed its support for Penn College’s welding programs with a $10,000 grant, supporting 360-plus students and feeding a direct pipeline into defense manufacturing, including BAE’s York site.

U.S. Army AI2C & FUZE — Hosted the Robotics, AI and Autonomy Forum at CMU’s Robotics Innovation Center, drawing 350-plus attendees and 50-plus companies and academic partners from 28 states.

Southwest Pennsylvania Defense Ecosystem — A new government-industry-academia coalition spanning ten Southwest Pennsylvania counties to accelerate mission-focused innovation and speed technology transition to warfighters.

The Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit took place July 14–15, 2026, at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Hosted by Senator Dave McCormick, the Summit convened 1,300 attendees, including 600-plus C-level executives and 500-plus organizations, and featured a curated Pennsylvania Trade Show and Industry Day showcasing Pennsylvania’s leading defense companies, emerging startups, and critical suppliers, connecting them directly with government procurement officials, prime contractors, and private capital.

The Summit builds on last year’s inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit in Pittsburgh, which brought together business, technology, labor, and government leaders to strengthen Pennsylvania’s role in powering America’s future. That summit catalyzed more than $92 billion in announced investment, the largest single-day private investment commitment in the Commonwealth’s history and remains on track to create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. A year later, nearly every investment announced at the Summit is moving forward or expanding, underscoring Pennsylvania’s growing leadership in energy, AI, manufacturing, and national security.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/pennsylvania-wins-best-in-show-at-the-great-american-state-fair/,PENNSYLVANIA WINS “BEST IN SHOW” AT THE GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR,2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Pennsylvania pavilion was named top state exhibit during America’s 250th Anniversary celebration on the National Mall – a win Senators McCormick and Fetterman say belongs to all of Pennsylvania.

WASHINGTON — Pennsylvania was recognized as one of the top state pavilions at America’s 250th birthday celebration, receiving one of the event’s “Best in Show” honors during the closing ceremony at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall.

The recognition comes just weeks after Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) partnered with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and a coalition of 55 Pennsylvania organizations, businesses, and industry partners to ensure the Commonwealth had a pavilion at the Great American State Fair. The bipartisan effort was made possible entirely through private partnerships without the use of a single taxpayer dollar.

Joining Senators McCormick and Fetterman in this effort were the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association, and the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association (PMA), alongside more than 50 additional Pennsylvania organizations, businesses, and industry partners whose support helped bring the Commonwealth’s exhibit to life.

“Pennsylvania’s story is America’s story, and this recognition is a tribute to everyone who helped bring that story to life,” said Senator McCormick. “From Independence Hall and Valley Forge to our farms, factories, and innovators, the Commonwealth has shaped our nation for 250 years. I’m grateful to Senator Fetterman, Secretary Rollins, and our outstanding Pennsylvania partners for ensuring Pennsylvania had a presence worthy of our history.”

“I’m incredibly proud of all the Pennsylvanians that showed up to make sure our Commonwealth had the spotlight it deserved right there on the National Mall during America’s 250th birthday. It earned this recognition,” said Senator Fetterman. “What makes Pennsylvania truly awesome are the men, women, and children who call it home. Our farmers, steelworkers, small business owners, and so many more. Those who visited the pavilion got to see a glimpse of some of the very best of us and our history, and I’m grateful to Senator McCormick, Secretary Rollins, and all who made this a massive success.”

The Pennsylvania pavilion highlights the Commonwealth’s central role in America’s story — from the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the sacrifices at Valley Forge to Gettysburg, the Arsenal of Democracy, and the Commonwealth’s continued leadership in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, innovation, and small business. Visitors also explored exhibits featuring many of Pennsylvania’s iconic companies and products, spotlighting the industries and communities driving the Commonwealth’s economy today.

During the closing ceremony, Freedom 250 recognized several outstanding state pavilions from across the country. Pennsylvania received one of the event’s “Best in Show” honors, recognizing the Commonwealth’s exhibit as one of the premier state pavilions at the Great American State Fair.

Representatives from Senator McCormick’s office accepted the Best in Show award during a recognition ceremony on the Freedom Stage Friday afternoon at the Great American State Fair.

###",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-completes-11-day-tour-visits-every-pennsylvania-county-since-taking-office/,"SENATOR MCCORMICK COMPLETES 11-DAY TOUR, VISITS EVERY PENNSYLVANIA COUNTY SINCE TAKING OFFICE",2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"11 days. 32 stops. 26 counties. Over 2,000 miles. One mission: hearing directly from Pennsylvanians.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) recently completed an 11-day, 32-stop tour across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, marking the milestone of visiting all 67 counties in the Commonwealth since taking office. In total, his 67-county visit included 297 official stops across the Commonwealth.

Traveling from Philadelphia County to Greene County, Senator McCormick met with rural healthcare providers, manufacturers, veterans, small business owners, educators, county commissioners, labor leaders, tourism officials, and community members to hear firsthand about the issues impacting Pennsylvanians across every corner of the Commonwealth.

The completion of this tour reflects Senator McCormick’s commitment to maintaining a strong, visible presence throughout Pennsylvania and ensuring that every region in the Commonwealth has a voice in the United States Senate.

“Pennsylvania’s greatest strength has always been its people, and there’s no substitute for showing up and listening,” said Senator McCormick. ”Over the last 11 days, I traveled from one end of the Commonwealth to the other, meeting with Pennsylvanians who are building businesses, caring for patients, manufacturing world-class products, educating our children, protecting our communities, and powering our economy.”

“Completing this tour marks an important milestone. During our campaign, we visited all 67 counties across Pennsylvania, and now I’ve done it again since taking office. That commitment doesn’t end here. I’ll continue traveling the Commonwealth because the best way to represent Pennsylvania in Washington is to hear directly from the people who call it home,” said Senator McCormick.

Throughout the 11-day tour, Senator McCormick highlighted Pennsylvania’s diverse economy and communities while focusing on issues critical to the Commonwealth’s future. The tour reinforced Senator McCormick’s commitment to ensuring that every community—urban, suburban, and rural—is represented in the Senate and that Pennsylvania remains a national leader in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, energy, innovation, and economic opportunity.

To view a photo gallery from the tour,click here.

11-Day Tour Recap

Day 1 – Friday, June 26

Stop 1: Lancaster County – Healthcare Workforce Roundtable at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital

Day 2 – Saturday, June 27

Stop 2: Schuylkill County – America 250 Parade in Pottsville

Stop 3: Carbon County – Jim Thorpe Small Business Walking Tour

Stop 4: Carbon County – Boat Yard Visit (Ty Poole’s Bar in Lehighton)

Day 3 – Sunday, June 28

Stop 5: Philadelphia County – Worship Service at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church

Day 4 – Monday, June 29

Stop 6: Philadelphia County – Invest America Trump Accounts Event at The Alan Horwitz “Sixth Man” Center

Stop 7: Pike County – Visit to The Resort at Woodloch

Stop 8: Wayne County – Community Reception

Day 5 – Tuesday, June 30

Stop 9: Sullivan County – Breakfast with Commissioners

Stop 10: Union County – WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital

Stop 11: Snyder County – Lunch with County Commissioners

Stop 12: Montour County – Tour of Geisinger Medical Center

Stop 13: Northumberland County – Knoebels 100th Anniversary Celebration

Day 6 – Wednesday, July 1

Stop 14: Centre County – Tour of Mount Nittany Medical Center

Stop 15: Clinton County – Racing for Heroes at Bucktail Medical Center

Stop 16: Cameron County – Tour of Emporium Hardwoods

Stop 17: Potter County – Eliot Ness Museum Roundtable

Stop 18: Elk County – Tour of Straub Brewery

Day 7 – Thursday, July 2

Stop 19: McKean County – Tour of W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company

Stop 20: Warren County – Kinzua Dam & Riverfront Walk

Stop 21: Warren County – Plaza Restaurant & Allegheny River Riverfront Tour

Stop 22: Forest County – West Hickory Boat Launch

Stop 23: Clarion County – 86th Annual Wolf’s Corners Fair

Stop 24: Armstrong County – Meeting with County Commissioners

Day 8 – Friday, July 3

Stop 25: Philadelphia County – Tour of Independence Hall

Day 9 – Saturday, July 4

Stop 26: Philadelphia County – FIFA World Cup Match

Stop 27: Philadelphia County – One Philly: Unity Concert for America

Day 10 – Sunday, July 5

Stop 28: Bedford County – Meeting with State Representative Jesse Topper

Day 11 – Monday, July 6

Stop 29: Butler County – Gateway 228 Corridor Project Meeting

Stop 30: Westmoreland County – Meeting with Commissioners

Stop 31: Fayette County – Tour of Heartland Fabrication

Stop 32: Greene County – Meeting with County Commissioners & United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) District 2 Vice President

11-Day Tour by the Numbers:

11 Days

32 Stops

26 Counties Visited

Over 2,000 Miles Traveled

TotalSince Taking Office in January 2025:

67 of 67 Pennsylvania Counties Visited

297 Official Stops

23 Telephone Townhalls

49 Keystone Coffees

To receive weekly updates from Senator McCormick, click here.

###",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/one-year-later-pennsylvanias-energy-and-innovation-summit-investments-are-on-track-and-growing/,"ONE YEAR LATER, PENNSYLVANIA’S ENERGY AND INNOVATION SUMMIT INVESTMENTS ARE ON TRACK AND GROWING",2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – One year ago, Senator Dave McCormick convened the inaugural Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit in Pittsburgh, where leading companies in energy and artificial intelligence announced more than $90 billion in investments, including approximately $50 billion in energy and power projects and $40 billion in data centers, in addition to millions for workforce and AI training. A year later, those commitments are being delivered.

“Nearly one year ago, we welcomed President Trump to Pittsburgh and brought together leaders in energy, technology, labor, and business with one goal: to reinforce Pennsylvania’s role as the leader in energy and AI. Today, I’m proud that nearly every investment announced at the Summit is on track or growing,” said Senator McCormick. “I’m even more committed to holding everyone—including myself—accountable for delivering an update on these promises. These aren’t just headlines; they’re game-changing investments that will create tens of thousands of good-paying Pennsylvania jobs, strengthen our communities, and ensure Pennsylvania families benefit from this once-in-a-generation opportunity. Pennsylvania has the energy resources, the skilled workforce, and the innovation ecosystem to power America’s future, and we’re proving that our Commonwealth will lead the AI and energy revolution for decades to come.”

Nineteen of the 20 investments announced or previewed at the Summit are on track, with construction and hiring underway, and in many cases growing beyond what was first announced. View the fact sheet for additional details and updates regarding the investments announced at the 2025 Pennsylvania and Innovation Summit.

Watch how momentum has been built as a result of the 2025 Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit. View the video.

From business leaders and university presidents to elected officials, many have recognized the Summit’s role in positioning Pennsylvania as the nation’s leader in energy and artificial intelligence. Their reactions underscore the Summit’s impact in creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, strengthening Pennsylvania’s workforce, supporting local communities and businesses, advancing innovation, and cementing the Commonwealth’s role in powering America’s future.

Blackstone and QTS are executing on their $25 billion commitment, having finalized a roughly 1,700-acre land purchase in Luzerne Country. At last year’s summit, Westinghouse committed to constructing 10 new large nuclear power reactors. It has since signed an agreement with the U.S. government for up to $80 billion to build them and recently received $17.5 billion in loans to support the buildout. The Homer City Redevelopment is the largest natural gas power plant under construction nationwide, and the project will, using Pennsylvania gas, put up to 800 MW of power onto the grid. GE Vernova’s Charleroi plant is growing, and TC Energy has committed additional capital in Pennsylvania since the Summit.

The momentum has continued. The AI data center hub outside Carlisle, Pennsylvania Digital 1 (PAX-1), which was previewed at the Summit but not announced, is under construction and already expandable to nearly 1.8 gigawatts. Likewise, the Trump Administration and NextEra have announced the South Mon project, which will generate over 4 GW of natural gas-fired energy. The Commonwealth is leading America’s energy and AI future.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:

“We’re back in Pittsburgh to announce the largest package of investments in the history of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania…This is a triumphant day for the people of the Commonwealth and the people of America.” – Remarks by President Donald J. Trump at the 2025 Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit

“One year ago, we were honored to attend Senator McCormick’s energy and innovation summit…We also have tremendous momentum – projects that create jobs and have positive impacts on communities, positioning Pennsylvania at the forefront of the AI revolution for decades to come.” – Jon Gray, Blackstone President

“We’re really excited about the progress that’s been made in such a short period of time. A state-of-the-art natural gas power generation facility. 100 to 200 million dollars a year of royalties paid to the communities. It’s going to be about manufacturing intelligence. Industry lives here in Pittsburgh. And thank you to Senator McCormick’s leadership.” – Toby Rice, EQT CEO

“All the projects discussed here aren’t just about energy and innovation. They’re about job creation. There is no workforce more prepared to build the future.” – Remarks by Brandon Bishop, North America’s Building Trades Unions Treasurer, at the 2025 Energy and Innovation Summit.

“I want to take the opportunity to salute my good friend. He’s put together this incredible AI and energy event, and he and I are going to continue to work together to fight for Pennsylvania and for our nation.” – Senator John Fetterman

“The energy and innovation summit was the standout event of last year. The groundwork we laid at the summit helped forge an incredible partnership for our Pittsburgh-based nuclear company, Westinghouse. This led us to signing a game-changing $80 billion deal with the US government. That’s real investment benefiting the people of Pennsylvania.” – Bruce Flatt, Brookfield CEO

###",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-urges-department-oftransportation-to-support-butlercountys-gateway-228-grant-application/,SENATOR MCCORMICK URGES DEPARTMENT OFTRANSPORTATION TO SUPPORT BUTLERCOUNTY’S GATEWAY 228 GRANT APPLICATION,2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Senator McCormick backs critical transportation investment to improve safety, reduce congestion, and strengthen regional economic growth in Western Pennsylvania.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy urging the Department of Transportation to give full and favorable consideration to Butler County’s application for funding through the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highways (INFRA) Grant Program.

In the letter, Senator McCormick expressed his support for Butler County’s request for $50.9 million to complete the Mars Railroad Bridge West Project, a central component of the larger Gateway 228 corridor improvement project. The investment would ease longstanding traffic congestion, improve freight movement, enhance commuter travel, and strengthen transportation infrastructure throughout the region.

“Reliable infrastructure is essential to keeping Pennsylvania’s economy moving,” said Senator McCormick. “The Gateway 228 project will improve safety, reduce congestion, strengthen freight movement, and create new opportunities for growth in Butler County and across Western Pennsylvania. I’m proud to support this application and encourage the Department of Transportation to give it full consideration.”

Gateway 228 serves as a vital commuter route and regional freight corridor but has struggled to keep pace with increased traffic and population growth. According to Butler County’s application, the project will complete a key segment of the corridor, creating a fully connected transportation route between Interstate 79 and State Route 8. The improvements are expected to reduce crashes by an estimated 61 percent, improve freight mobility, strengthen regional connectivity, and enhance quality of life for residents.

Read the full text of the letter here.

Dear Secretary Duffy:

I am writing to you to express my strong support for Butler County’s application for funding through the Department of Transportation’s Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highways (INFRA) Grant.

Located in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Butler County seeks funding in the amount of $50,911,500 for the Mars Railroad Bridge West Project (the Project). The Project will undertake the final 3.25-mile segment of the larger Gateway 228 corridor improvement project. Currently, this current stretch of roadway experiences traffic bottlenecks, safety concerns, and transportation inefficiencies. Gateway 228 serves as a vital commuter route and regional freight corridor that has seen increased traffic congestion and strained transportation infrastructure due to development and population growth in the region.

The Project will undertake the completion of the Gateway 228 corridor and create a fully connected transportation corridor between Interstate 79 and State Route 8. By addressing existing concerns with this corridor, crashes will be reduced by an estimated 61%. The Project will improve freight movement and commuter travel throughout the region which will strengthen regional connectivity, enhance quality of life, and support economic growth and future development in the region.

I strongly urge the Department of Transportation to give this application full and favorable consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

David H. McCormick

United States Senator",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-announce-pennsylvania-partnership-to-showcase-the-commonwealth-at-the-great-american-state-fair/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN ANNOUNCE PENNSYLVANIA PARTNERSHIP TO SHOWCASE THE COMMONWEALTH AT THE GREAT AMERICAN STATE FAIR,2026-06-27,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Pennsylvania leaders unite to ensure the Commonwealth is represented during America’s 250th Anniversary celebration on the National Mall—completely privately funded and with no taxpayer dollars.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today announced a coalition of Pennsylvania organizations that will ensure the Commonwealth has a strong presence at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall. This announcement comes after working in coordination with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins.

When it became clear that Pennsylvania still has an opportunity to join most other states participating in Great American State Fair, Senator McCormick worked with Senator Fetterman, Secretary Rollins, and leading Pennsylvania organizations to make sure the Keystone State would have a showcase worthy of its singular place in our nation’s history. The effort is being made possible entirely through private partnerships and will not use any taxpayer dollars.

Joining Senators McCormick and Fetterman in this effort are the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, PennAg Industries Association, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association, and The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA).

“Pennsylvania is where America’s story began, and there was no way we were going to let the Commonwealth go unrepresented during our Nation’s 250th birthday celebration,” said Senator McCormick. “As the birthplace of American independence, home to the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg, and the engine for the arsenal of democracy, Pennsylvania has a special responsibility to preserve, celebrate, and share that enduring legacy.”

“Celebrating America’s 250th birthday and Pennsylvania’s special role in our country is important and bipartisan. We discovered our Commonwealth wasn’t participating in the Great American State Fair on the National Mall and we should be,” said Senator Fetterman. “We are now making sure Pennsylvania’s booth will highlight the Commonwealth’s agriculture dominance, our businesses, and what makes PA a truly awesome and historic place.”

“Pennsylvania’s story is simply too important to be missing from our nation’s capital during America’s 250th birthday celebration. That’s why the PA Chamber is proud to partner with Senator McCormick and Senator Fetterman to lead the Pennsylvania Pavilion at the Great American State Fair. The Keystone State belongs front and center—and we’re excited to help showcase the people, businesses, and innovation that continue to shape America’s future,” said Luke Bernstein, President and CEO of the PA Chamber.

“PennAg Industries Association is honored to partner with Senator Dave McCormick and Senator John Fetterman in representing Pennsylvania at the Great American State Fair during our nation’s 250th Anniversary celebration. Agriculture has always been at the heart of the Commonwealth’s story, and we are proud to showcase Pennsylvania’s farmers, agribusinesses, and agricultural history as we celebrate this milestone anniversary for America,” said Chris Herr, Executive Vice President, Penn Ag.

“Pennsylvania Farm Bureau is pleased to see that Pennsylvania agriculture will be on display as part of the Great American State Fair taking place on the National Mall,” said Chris Hoffman, President of Pennsylvania Farm Bureau. “This is an excellent opportunity for Pennsylvania’s top industry to be on display at the national level, along with the other states that work together to provide the food, fuel and fiber that sustains our nation. We’d like to thank Senator Dave McCormick and Senator John Fetterman for making it possible for the strength and diversity of Pennsylvania agriculture to be on display as part of this unique event to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.”

“Pennsylvania’s small businesses have been driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities since the founding of our nation,” said Greg Moreland, Pennsylvania State Director for NFIB. “America’s 250th Anniversary is the perfect opportunity to showcase the entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses that continue to power the Commonwealth’s economy. NFIB is proud to partner with Senator McCormick, Senator Fetterman, and organizations across Pennsylvania to ensure our state’s rich history and vibrant small business community are represented at the Great American State Fair.”

“Pennsylvania is at the very heart of our national story,” said David N. Taylor, President & CEO Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association. “To celebrate America 250 at the Great American State Fair without the Keystone State is unthinkable. Profound thanks to Senator Dave McCormick and Senator John Fetterman for making things right! God bless America on this Glorious Fourth! Let Freedom Ring!”

“No state is more woven into the fabric of America’s founding than Pennsylvania. As the birthplace of our democracy and a continuing leader in manufacturing, agriculture, innovation, and community, Pennsylvania tells the story of where America has been – and where it is going. America’s 250th celebration would not be complete without Pennsylvania,” said Lori Joint, President & CEO, The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA).

Senator McCormick and Senator Fetterman thank Secretary Rollins and our outstanding Pennsylvania partners for stepping up to ensure Americans visiting the Great American State Fair can experience everything our Commonwealth has to offer. Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary is an opportunity to honor our shared history, renew our commitment to the ideals that have sustained our Republic for two and a half centuries, and showcase the people, businesses, farmers, veterans and industries that continue to make Pennsylvania exceptional.

###",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-28T06:33:41Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-rosen-introduce-the-unmanned-systems-command-and-control-act-to-strengthen-command-and-control-for-americas-unmanned-systems/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND ROSEN INTRODUCE THE UNMANNED SYSTEMS COMMAND AND CONTROL ACT TO STRENGTHEN COMMAND AND CONTROL FOR AMERICA’S UNMANNED SYSTEMS,2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Bill directs the Pentagon to study proven allied systems and accelerate U.S. modernization at no new cost to taxpayers

WASHINGTON — Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) today introduced the Unmanned Systems Command and Control Act, legislation directing the Secretary of War to study and report on whether the U.S. Department of War could use open-architecture systems to command and control its unmanned systems. Allied and partner countries are already using these systems to great effect in ongoing conflicts, and lessons can be learned from their application to different unmanned system tiers and domains.

“Modern warfare has shown that unmanned aircraft systems now operate in huge numbers, forcing commanders to track countless moving pieces across vast areas in real time, and to manage that information quickly, safely, and flexibly to win. America’s allies have built systems to do exactly this, while America’s own efforts trail behind,” said Senator McCormick. “The Unmanned Systems Command and Control Act directs the Secretary of War to study these proven frameworks, learn from them, and use those lessons to lower risk, speed up America’s own progress, and gain critical advantage during military operations.”

“The use of drones and other unmanned systems in modern warfare has grown exponentially,” said Senator Rosen. “This bipartisan bill will enable the U.S. to learn from our allies to remain at the forefront of military and technological innovation, ensuring that we can provide our troops with the resources to direct, coordinate, and utilize unmanned aircraft systems in the modern battlespace.”

This legislation requires the Department of War to evaluate open-architecture, unmanned system command and control frameworks with proven operational effectiveness, examining their architectural design, compatibility and interoperability with existing DoW systems, cybersecurity, and adaptability in the field, along with a roadmap for putting them into use. Specifically, the bill:

Requires DoW to study battle-tested drone command and control systems, beginning with Ukraine’s Delta and Israel’s multi-drone operating system.

Creates a panel of 10 to 15 specialists in drone operations, open-architecture software systems, cybersecurity, and allied command and control operations, with no more than two-thirds being current government employees.

Requires a preliminary report to congressional defense committees, a final report within one year, and annual updates for five years.

Requires supply chain risk management, compliance with the Cybersecurity Framework 2.0, vulnerability disclosure, and penetration testing; excludes covered foreign entities; and mandates a process updating cybersecurity standards.

Directs that any recommended frameworks account for the domestic small, unmanned aircraft systems industrial base remediation efforts.

Requires DoW to share an unclassified summary of the findings and recommendations with the Federal Aviation Administration.

Draws funding from existing DoW research and development amounts and avoids new taxpayer spending.

Senator McCormick has also introduced the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Strategy Act, legislation requiring the U.S. Department of War to develop a comprehensive, all-domain strategy for the rapid deployment, integration, and scaling of unmanned and autonomous systems (UAS) across the Indo-Pacific and the Western Hemisphere.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-schiff-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-organic-certification-oversight/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, SCHIFF INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN ORGANIC CERTIFICATION OVERSIGHT",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act Would Reduce Burdens on Farmers While Protecting Consumer Confidence in Organic Products

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) today introduced the bipartisan Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act, legislation that would modernize the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s oversight of organic certification by focusing resources on higher-risk operations while reducing unnecessary burdens on farmers and businesses with strong compliance records.

The organic sector plays a critical role in American agriculture; however, current federal oversight requirements apply the same inspection standards to every operation regardless of risk level. Under the existing system, small family farms that have maintained compliance for years face the same annual inspection requirements as larger, more complex operations, creating increased costs and administrative burdens that do little to improve organic integrity.

“Pennsylvania’s organic farmers work hard to meet rigorous standards and provide consumers with high-quality products they can trust,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan legislation takes a smarter approach to oversight by focusing resources where they are needed most, reducing unnecessary burdens on our farmers, and strengthening confidence in the organic label. By modernizing the certification process, we can support American agriculture while maintaining the integrity consumers expect.”

“California is the leading organic agriculture state in our nation, and it’s crucial that we reduce unnecessary burdens for farmers,” said Senator Schiff. “This bipartisan bill will modify the oversight process to allow small organic farms to stay in business while maintaining the integrity of the organic label for consumers.”

Since 2020, the number of certified organic crop operations in the United States has declined by more than 10 percent, while certified organic livestock operations have fallen by more than 6 percent. Meanwhile, current oversight practices fail to focus inspections and enforcement on the operations that present the greatest risk to organic integrity.

The Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act would:

Define “risk to organic integrity” based on the likelihood that products labeled as organic do not comply with federal organic standards.

Modernize inspection requirements by allowing risk-based inspection schedules for domestic operations, requiring on-site inspections no less than once every three years while permitting annual virtual inspections for lower-risk operations. Foreign operations would continue to be subject to annual on-site inspections.

Direct USDA to conduct a comprehensive 12-month study evaluating risk-based oversight protocols and potential reforms.

Require USDA to engage with certified organic farmers, businesses, certifying agents, the National Organic Standards Board, organic consumers, and other stakeholders throughout the review process.

Authorize USDA to implement risk-based oversight regulations informed by the study’s findings and consultation with Congress.

The legislation is supported by the Organic Trade Association, Organic Farmers Association, National Organic Coalition, and Accredited Certifiers Association.

Representative Tony Wied (R-WI) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

The Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act is supported by the following stakeholders:

“Our organic oversight system shouldn’t burden low-risk farmers while losing ground to foreign producers,” said Tom Chapman, co-CEO of the Organic Trade Association. “It’s no surprise we’ve seen domestic organic operations decline since 2020, with foreign producers stepping in to fill the gap. We thank Senator McCormick and Senator Schiff for introducing the Risk-Based Oversight for Integrity Act which concentrates oversight where the risk is greatest while making certification accessible to low-risk farmers. The Organic Trade Association is proud to support this legislation and looks forward to advancing it alongside champions on both sides of the aisle.”

“Organic integrity and strong oversight are essential to maintaining trust in the organic seal,” said Chris Solt, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO). “The Rightsizing Organic Integrity (ROI) Act recognizes that not all operations present the same level of risk and creates a pathway for USDA to focus oversight resources where they are needed most. By reducing unnecessary burdens on low-risk operations while maintaining rigorous standards, this legislation strengthens organic integrity and helps ensure organic certification remains accessible for farmers and businesses across the United States.”

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-donald-j-trump-to-headline-2026-pennsylvania-defense-and-innovation-summit-at-u-s-army-war-college/,PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP TO HEADLINE 2026 PENNSYLVANIA DEFENSE AND INNOVATION SUMMIT AT U.S. ARMY WAR COLLEGE,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Two-Day Summit Will Convene the Nation’s Top Defense, Technology, Finance and Government Leaders Driving the Next Era of Defense Innovation and Investment

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced that President Donald J. Trump will headline the 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on July 14 – 15, 2026.

This landmark two-day summit will be the first ever to convene the nation’s most influential leaders in defense, technology, finance and government under one roof to advance President Trump’s commitment to Peace through Strength and seize on this generational opportunity for Pennsylvania to contribute and strengthen our national defense, made possible by President Trump’s historic $1.5 trillion defense budget. On July 15, President Trump will deliver remarks and unveil investments and partnerships in defense innovation that will create great-paying jobs for Americans across Pennsylvania and the country.

“Last July, the President came to Pennsylvania and together we announced more than $90 billion in investments to strengthen America’s energy dominance and AI leadership. This July, I look forward to welcoming President Trump back to build on this momentum with a focus on strengthening and advancing our national defense,” said Senator Dave McCormick. “The Commonwealth stands ready to lead and deliver the innovation, manufacturing, and skilled workforce necessary to advance the President’s vision and strengthen our military edge.”

During the Summit, attendees will hear from our nation’s most prominent national security and military leaders including top Cabinet officials. Business and finance leaders also joining the conversation include JPMorgan’s Jamie Dimon, Blackstone President Jon Gray, Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet, General Dynamics CEO Phebe Novakovic, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, SpaceX director Antonio Gracias, and Palantir CTO Shyam Sankar.

Day One will spotlight Pennsylvania’s defense industrial base, convening defense and industrial leaders, technologists, investors, procurement officials, and senior government officials for high-impact panels and working sessions designed to expand Pennsylvania’s defense production and innovation. Day Two, headlined by President Trump, will deliver investment announcements and partnerships showcasing Pennsylvania’s continued leadership in strengthening and supporting America’s national defense.

The Summit marks the one-year anniversary of Senator McCormick’s 2025 Energy and Innovation Summit, which President Trump headlined in Pittsburgh. At that historic event, the President announced more than $92 billion in private-sector investment commitments to the Commonwealth to lock in American Energy Dominance. This commitment represented the largest single-day investment announcement in Pennsylvania’s history.

###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-foreign-relations-committee-advances-mccormick-legislation-to-expand-internet-freedom-for-iranians/,Senate Foreign Relations Committee Advances McCormick Legislation to Expand Internet Freedom for Iranians,2026-06-17,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Three Additional McCormick-Backed Bills Also Advance to Strengthen U.S. Energy Security, Deepen Strategic Partnerships, and Preserve Community Passport Service

WASHINGTON – The Senate Foreign Relations Committee today advanced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026, clearing the way for a full Senate vote. The bipartisan bill, introduced by Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and sixteen other senators, would expand internet access for Iranian civilians during regime blackouts, support independent broadcasting and human rights programming, and strengthen cybersecurity tools for Iranian journalists, activists, and civil society.

The committee also advanced three additional bills co-sponsored by Senator McCormick, which are now headed to the Senate floor. These include:

The Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act, introduced by Senators McCormick and Cory Booker (D-NJ), would make the Eastern Mediterranean region a strategic priority in U.S. foreign policy, support the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), and deepen cooperation on energy, trade, and critical infrastructure with key partners including Greece, Cyprus, Israel, and Egypt.

The Pacific Promotion of Workable Energy Resources (POWER) Act, co-led by Senators McCormick, Curtis, Schatz, and Coons, would leverage America’s position as the global leader in geothermal electricity to promote geothermal exploration and production across the Indo-Pacific, strengthening energy security among U.S. allies, reinforcing supply chains, and creating economic opportunities at home.

An amendment to the Passport Act of June 4, 1920, introduced by Senators McCormick and John Fetterman (D-PA), would allow public libraries organized as non-profits or charitable organizations to collect and keep a fee for processing passport applications. The bill responds to a November 2025 State Department policy reversal that found many nonprofit libraries ineligible to offer these services under federal law. This will positively impact more than 26 non-profit public libraries in Pennsylvania who processed more than 41,000 passport applications last year.

Following the Senate Foreign Relations Committee mark up this morning, Senator McCormick stated, “I’m proud to see these four bipartisan bills advance out of committee, and I urge my colleagues to pass them swiftly on the Senate floor. Whether it’s standing with the Iranian people against a repressive regime, extending America’s energy leadership across the Indo-Pacific, securing critical partnerships in the Eastern Mediterranean, or protecting passport access in communities back home, this is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that strengthens our security and serves the American people.”

###",1,2026-06-18T06:41:00Z,2026-06-18T06:43:25Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-urges-cms-to-reconsider-decision-impacting-mount-nittany-medical-center/,SENATOR MCCORMICK URGES CMS TO RECONSIDER DECISION IMPACTING MOUNT NITTANY MEDICAL CENTER,2026-06-16,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) recently sent a letter to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz urging the agency to reconsider its recent decision to terminate Mount Nittany Medical Center’s Sole Community Hospital (SCH) designation, a move that could jeopardize healthcare access for patients across Central Pennsylvania.

“Mount Nittany Medical Center has long served as the primary provider of inpatient care for the region and remains an essential healthcare resource for Medicare beneficiaries and the broader community,” Senator McCormick wrote. “The loss of SCH designation could jeopardize critical federal support for healthcare delivery in Central Pennsylvania and undermine access to care for seniors, rural patients, and families who rely on Mount Nittany for essential inpatient services.”

Mount Nittany Medical Center serves as the region’s primary inpatient healthcare provider and plays a critical role in delivering care to residents throughout Centre County and surrounding communities. CMS’s decision could cost Mount Nittany Medical Center millions of dollars annually in federal reimbursement funding, creating significant financial challenges for a hospital that serves as the primary source of inpatient care for Central Pennsylvania. Senator McCormick’s letter questions whether the Penn Highlands State College facility satisfies the statutory and regulatory requirements necessary to qualify as a comparable “like hospital” under CMS rules. Given the importance of maintaining reliable healthcare access in Central Pennsylvania, Senator McCormick urged CMS to conduct a thorough review of the decision and provide additional information regarding the agency’s analysis.

Read the full text of the letter here.",1,2026-06-17T06:49:24Z,2026-06-17T06:50:53Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-hickenlooper-young-and-heinrich-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-establish-national-commission-on-robotics/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, HICKENLOOPER, YOUNG, AND HEINRICH INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO ESTABLISH NATIONAL COMMISSION ON ROBOTICS",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Todd Young (R-IN), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) today introduced the bipartisan National Commission on Robotics Act. The bill would create an independent commission to evaluate America’s competitiveness in robotics and recommend policies to strengthen U.S. leadership in that field. The legislation comes as America’s dependence on foreign-manufactured robotics technology raises urgent questions about supply chain security, economic competitiveness, national defense, and workforce development.

“Pennsylvania, and Pittsburgh especially, is an incredible hub of robotics talent and demonstrates that American leadership in robotics creates high-paying jobs, strengthens domestic supply chains, and drives long-term growth,” said Senator McCormick. “The Commission on American Leadership in Robotics will bring together leading experts to help ensure the United States maintains its technological edge over our adversaries and builds the workforce needed to succeed in a technology-driven future.”

“Advancements in robotics are rapidly changing how we live and work. If America is going to lead the future, we need a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges ahead—from supply chains and national security to workforce development,” saidSenatorHickenlooper. “Colorado is a growing robotics and innovation hub, and this legislation will help ensure we harness these technologies in ways that build opportunity, strengthen our economy, and minimize the unintended consequences.”

Specifically, the commission is directed to examine and make recommendations on:

The competitiveness of the United States in robotics and the strength of the domestic marketplace.

Whether the U.S. has the appropriate means and methods to assert and maintain a technological advantage across industrial, retail, and commercial sectors.

Foreign actions and policies to advance robotics.

Whether certain strategic partnerships in robotics with industry, the public, and academic institutions could enhance economic competitiveness and manufacturing.

Workforce incentives and programs to attract and recruit leading talent in robotics and associated STEM fields.

Supply chain risks and policies to increase domestic manufacturing of robotics.

The commission will deliver an interim report to Congress and the President within one year of establishment and a final report with concrete recommendations within two years of establishment.

TheNational Commission on Robotics Acthas received support from the following stakeholders: Gecko Robotics, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh Technology Council, Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute, Agility Robotics, Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Association for Advancing Automation (A3), FANUC America, Technology Councils of North America (TECNA), the Colorado Technology Association, Advanced Construction Robotics, Carnegie Robotics, Near Earth Autonomy, HEBI Robotics, Robots for America, the New American Industrial Alliance, and the Mass Technology Leadership Council.

“Robotics is poised to be one of the defining technologies of the 21st century, with profound implications for economic growth, national security and societal well-being. At a time of increasing global competition, the United States must take an ambitious and deliberate approach to maintaining its leadership in this critical field,” said Farnam Jahanian, PresidentofCarnegie Mellon University. “Carnegie Mellon University applauds the bipartisan leadership of Senators McCormick and Hickenlooper in advancing a National Robotics Commission. By bringing together leaders from industry, academia, government and the workforce, this effort can help develop a shared national strategy that accelerates innovation, strengthens American competitiveness and ensures the benefits of robotics are broadly shared across society.”

“Global competition around robotics and AI is accelerating quickly, and the U.S. must move decisively to remain the global leader. A national robotics strategy is essential to strengthening American industry, infrastructure, energy, and national security, while accelerating innovation and high-skilled jobs. Gecko, from our Pittsburgh headquarters to facilities around the world, is at the forefront of companies transforming critical industries using robotics and stands firmly behind Senator McCormick and Senator Hickenlooper’s initiative,” said Jake Loosararian, Co-founder and CEO of Gecko Robotics.

“America’s robotics leadership will be built on strong research institutions, a skilled workforce, resilient supply chains, and bold entrepreneurs going after big problems. This commission is exactly the kind of federal commitment our industry needs. We strongly support this legislation and urge that workforce development, technology transfer, supply chain resilience, and academic-industry partnerships be central in its considerations.” said Audrey Russo, President and CEO, Pittsburgh Technology Council.

“Pittsburgh has been at the forefront of robotics innovation for decades, which is why Agility has made a meaningful investment in its footprint there,” said Peggy Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Agility Robotics. “Sen. McCormick and Sen. Hickenlooper’s introduction of the National Commission on Robotics Act reflects a clear understanding of the strategic importance of U.S. leadership not only in developing, but in deploying robotics, including humanoids, at scale. We hope the Senate will move swiftly on a bipartisan basis to advance this critical legislation.”

“AUVSI commends Senators McCormick and Hickenlooper for their leadership in introducing the National Commission on Robotics Act. Robotics will be central to the future of U.S. manufacturing, productivity, and national security. With the People’s Republic of China moving strategically and aggressively to shape and win this market, the United States needs a clear national strategy to align policy, strengthen trusted industrial capacity, and compete to win. This bill is an important step toward that goal and AUVSI strongly endorses the National Commission on Robotics Act,” saidMichael Robbins, President & CEO ofAssociation for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).

“The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) applauds the leadership of US Senators David McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) and welcomes their introduction of legislation in the United States Senate to establish a national robotics strategy,” said Jeff Burnstein, President of A3. “The accelerated adoption of robotics, along with enabling technologies like artificial intelligence, machine vision, and motion control, will strengthen every US industry in the future. Robotics and automation are essential to bringing more manufacturing back to the US while creating better, safer and higher paying jobs for American workers.”

“Staying on the cutting edge of robotics development and deployment is critical to U.S. economic competitiveness and national security. So much of the innovation in this space is being driven by entrepreneurs and small/medium-sized businesses across the country—thousands of which are served by TECNA’s member councils. We applaud Senator McCormick’s effort to create a Robotics Commission ​and ensure we continue to foster and leverage American ingenuity,” said Jennifer G. Young, CEO, TECNA

“FANUC America applauds Senators David McCormick (R-PA) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) for their leadership in advancing robotics,” said Mike Cicco, CEO of FANUC America. “The National Commission on Robotics Act is an important step to strengthen U.S. leadership in robotics and industrial automation. As a global leader in industrial robotics, FANUC America strongly supports federal efforts to develop a skilled workforce and accelerate the adoption of robotics across U.S. manufacturing. FANUC America is proud of its continued investments and expansion in the United States and looks forward to working with Congress to create high-quality jobs including robotics designers, technicians, and operators, while advancing initiatives that strengthen U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.”

“Robotics has the potential to power America’s manufacturing renaissance, which is why it’s critical to enact smart policy that leads the way on adoption. The National Commission on Robotics Act would do just that, by creating a bipartisan commission to assess the state of American robotics and establishing a strategy to ensure continued American robotics dominance. We thank Sen. McCormick, Sen. Hickenlooper, Congressman Obernolte, and Congresswoman McClellan for acting urgently to address this critical need.” –New American Industrial Alliance (NAIA)

“Despite inventing the modern robotics industry, the United States currently operates less than 10% of the world’s industrial robots, which significantly threatens America’s position as the global economic leader. There’s no time to waste, which is why the creation of an independent, bipartisan commission on American leadership in robotics must be an urgent priority for US policymakers. We thank Senator McCormick, Senator Hickenlooper, Congressman Obernolte, and Congresswoman McClellan for their leadership on this effort.”- Robots for America

This bill has bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House. Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Jennifer McClellan (D-VA) are sponsoring companion legislation, H.R. 7334, in the House of Representatives.

The full bill text may be read here.

###",1,2026-06-05T06:35:23Z,2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-to-host-2026-pennsylvania-defense-and-innovation-summit-at-u-s-army-war-college/,SENATOR MCCORMICK TO HOST 2026 PENNSYLVANIA DEFENSE AND INNOVATION SUMMIT AT U.S. ARMY WAR COLLEGE,2026-05-28,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Two-Day Summit to Convene Nation’s Top Defense, Industrial, Energy, and Technology Leaders on the One-Year Anniversary of Historic Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced that he will host the 2026 Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit at the United States Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on July 14–15, 2026.

The two-day Summit will convene the nation’s and the Commonwealth’s leading defense CEOs and investors, alongside senior U.S. military and administration officials, to showcase Pennsylvania’s defense industrial base and announce partnerships and investments that drive innovation, create great-paying jobs across the Commonwealth and the country, and cement Pennsylvania as a cornerstone of American defense production.

The Summit marks the one-year anniversary of the Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, which Senator McCormick convened in Pittsburgh with President Donald J. Trump to advance American energy dominance. That first-of-its-kind event delivered more than $92 billion in private-sector commitments to the Commonwealth — the largest single-day investment announcement in Pennsylvania’s history.",1,2026-05-29T06:31:28Z,2026-05-29T06:32:48Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/pennsylvania-senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-introduce-bill-to-accelerateu-s-military-drone-and-autonomous-systems-strategy/,PENNSYLVANIA SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN INTRODUCE BILL TO ACCELERATEU.S. MILITARY DRONE AND AUTONOMOUS SYSTEMS STRATEGY,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman today introduced the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Strategy Act, legislation requiring the U.S. Department of War to develop a comprehensive, all-domain strategy for the rapid deployment, integration, and scaling of unmanned and autonomous systems (UAS) across the Indo-Pacific and the Western Hemisphere.

The bill will help the Department of War accelerate the fielding of large numbers of capable, low-cost, AI-enabled drones. These systems have already transformed warfare in the air, on the surface, and undersea. Getting this strategy right is essential to maintaining the military superiority and deterrence the U.S. has long relied on.

“Unmanned and autonomous systems represent the most disruptive shift in military technology since precision-guided munitions and stealth,” said Senator McCormick. “We’ve seen their impact in Ukraine and across the Middle East. The nation that can field affordable, scalable autonomous systems fastest will have a decisive military advantage. America cannot afford to fall behind.”

“Unmanned and autonomous systems are part of our lives right now with no strategy for deploying them where they matter most,” said Senator Fetterman. “Pennsylvania’s defense industry builds some of the best of these systems and we should be putting them to work to keep Americans safe—and this bill does that.”

Specifically, core requirements of the comprehensive strategy under the Unmanned Autonomous Systems Strategy Act would include:

Capability Gap Assessment — Evaluates where U.S. unmanned capabilities fall short across surveillance, strike, anti-submarine warfare, logistics, electronic warfare, and counter-drone operations.

Force Design Review — Identifies the air, surface, and undersea autonomous systems needed to support operations in the Indo-Pacific and Western Hemisphere.

Forward Deployment Strategy — Examines basing and deployment options across INDOPACOM, NORTHCOM, and SOUTHCOM areas of responsibility.

Technology and Integration Plan — Assesses emerging technologies, including AI and hybrid-electric propulsion, and outlines integration with existing military platforms and command systems.

Allied Cooperation — Establishes a framework for joint development and interoperability with key allies and partners including Australia, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Israel, and Ukraine.

Industrial Base and Procurement Strategy — Identifies supply chain vulnerabilities, scalable manufacturing opportunities, and commercially available systems compliant with the American Security Drone Act.

In the Indo-Pacific, China has already built the world’s largest navy and is rapidly expanding its drone capabilities while investing heavily in anti-access and area denial systems designed to keep U.S. forces out of the region. The United States must rapidly field affordable, expendable autonomous systems capable of persistent surveillance, undersea operations, and long-range strike missions.

Closer to home, drug cartels and transnational criminal organizations increasingly exploit maritime and air corridors across the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific, and U.S. coastal waters. Unmanned aerial systems can provide persistent surveillance at a fraction of the cost of manned aircraft and ships, easing pressure on U.S. military and Coast Guard resources.

The full bill text may be found here.

###",1,2026-05-23T06:08:46Z,2026-05-23T06:10:20Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-announces-u-s-service-academy-nomination-application-portal-is-open-for-the-class-of-2031/,SENATOR MCCORMICK ANNOUNCES U.S. SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATION APPLICATION PORTAL IS OPEN FOR THE CLASS OF 2031,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) announced today that the application portal for Pennsylvanians interested in his nomination to one of the four U.S. service academies is now open. In addition to applying directly to their service academy of choice, applicants also need to secure a congressional nomination to be eligible for appointment to a U.S. service academy.

“Service academies produce some of the finest leaders this nation has ever seen, and the nomination process is a critical part of ensuring that tradition continues,” said Senator McCormick. “As a West Point graduate and combat veteran, I understand firsthand the transformative impact an academy education can have — not just on a career, but on a life. I look forward to identifying the next class of outstanding young men and women from Pennsylvania who are ready to answer the call to serve.”

Members of Congress are responsible for nominating candidates for appointment to four of the U.S. service academies – the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Candidates applying to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy do not need a congressional nomination for appointment.

More information about the application process is available here.

###",1,2026-05-23T06:08:46Z,2026-05-23T06:10:20Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-urge-nih-to-release-fy2026-appropriated-funds/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN URGE NIH TO RELEASE FY2026 APPROPRIATED FUNDS,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) sent a letter to the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) urging NIH to take immediate action to ensure the timely obligation of all congressionally appropriated FY 2026 grant funding.

“Failure to disburse appropriated funds not only forfeits critical investments but also delays scientific breakthroughs and undermines America’s leadership in biomedical research at a time of growing competition from China and other adversaries. In Pennsylvania, world-class research institutions depend on a functioning NIH grant pipeline to sustain their workforce, advance lifesaving discoveries, and drive long-term economic growth,” wrote Senators McCormick and Fetterman.

Pennsylvania ranks as the fourth largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation. In 2025,

NIH investment generated $5.31 billion in annual economic activity and supported more than 21,700 research jobs.NIH-driven commercialization efforts have also helped create 3,710 businesses and 97,000 jobs in the biopharmaceutical industry.

NIH has awarded fewer than 1,900 new and competitive research grants between October 2025 and late March 2026, less than half the normal pace. The consequences of this slowdown are already being felt by nearly every major disease area, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and prenatal care. Congress funded NIH at approximately $47 billion for FY2026.

Read the full text of the letter below and here.

Dear Director Bhattacharya,

We write to express our concern about the pace of grant awards at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and to urge you to take immediate action to ensure the timely obligation of all congressionally appropriated FY2026 funds. .

An analysis of NIH RePORTER data, NIH has awarded only approximately 1,900 new and competitive grants between October 2025 and late March 2026, which accounts for less than half the number typically awarded by that point in the fiscal year. The National Cancer Institute alone has earmarked roughly $72 million for new and competitive grants through late March, compared to nearly $250 million at the same point in FY21-24. The slowdown covers most major disease area, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and prenatal care. Congress appropriated more than $47 billion to NIH for FY2026, and that investment must be put to work.

The consequences of this slowdown are already being felt in Pennsylvania. In 2025, NIH-funded research generated $5.3B in economic activity in the Commonwealth and supported more than 21,700 jobs. NIH-driven commercialization efforts have also helped create 3,710 businesses and 97,000 jobs in the biopharmaceutical industry. Failure to disburse appropriated funds not only forfeits critical investments but also delays scientific breakthroughs and undermines America’s leadership in biomedical research at a time of growing competition from China and other adversaries. In Pennsylvania, world-class research institutions depend on a functioning NIH grant pipeline to sustain their workforce, advance lifesaving discoveries, and drive long-term economic growth.

We respectfully request that NIH move expeditiously to obligate all FY2026 appropriated funds in accordance with congressional intent, provide our offices additional context regarding the challenges NIH is facing contributing to the current pace of awards, and set forth actionable steps the agency is taking to address delays.

We hope to continue working together to ensure NIH fulfills its mission of making America healthy and keeping American science first in the world. We appreciate your attention to this matter and hope to receive your response no later than June 21, 2026.",1,2026-05-23T06:08:46Z,2026-05-23T06:10:20Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-launches-america250-essay-contest-for-pennsylvania-high-school-students/,SENATOR MCCORMICK LAUNCHES AMERICA250 ESSAY CONTEST FOR PENNSYLVANIA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS,2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Winning essays to be entered into the Congressional Record; winners invited to meet with the Senator in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced the launch of a Pennsylvania Youth Essay Contest in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, inviting high school students across the Commonwealth to reflect on Pennsylvania’s central role in the American story.

Winning essays will be entered into the Congressional Record and their authors will be invited to meet with Senator McCormick in Washington D.C. Top runners-up will receive a signed letter of recognition from the Senator.

“This year, America turns 250 years old — and no state has shaped that story more than Pennsylvania,” said Senator McCormick. “Only one state can claim the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed, where the most important battle of the Civil War was won, and where the Arsenal of Democracy was forged. As we celebrate this milestone, I want to hear from the next generation of Pennsylvanians — about the people who built this country, and about what they themselves intend to build next. I can’t wait to read what they write.”

How to Participate

Who is eligible: Pennsylvania high school students, divided into two divisions based on the grade they are rising into for the 2026–27 school year:

Division I — Grades 9 and 10

Division II — Grades 11 and 12

Length: 600 to 800 words.

Prompts (participants may choose either one):

Prompt 1 — Choose a Pennsylvanian, from any era and any walk of life, whose story you believe every American should know. Who were they, what did they do, and what does their life reveal about what America is capable of at its best?

Prompt 2 — The Founders didn’t just celebrate 1776; they built something. As America turns 250, what is the one challenge you believe the next generation must solve to make America stronger at 300? What would you do about it?

How tosubmit: Email your essay to pa250@mccormick.senate.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on July 4, 2026. Use the subject line: 250th Essay — [Name, Grade, School, City].

Selection: Winners will be notified in late July. The authors of winning essays should be comfortable with having their essay, name, grade, and school identified publicly. Runners up and other submissions will not be made public.

###",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-schatz-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-redevelopment-of-former-military-installations/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND SCHATZ INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO SUPPORT REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER MILITARY INSTALLATIONS,2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) today introduced the bipartisan Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act, legislation to help communities redevelop former military installations by expanding eligibility for Qualified Opportunity Zone (QOZ) designation to include Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) sites.

Since 1988, the Department of War has conducted five rounds of BRAC, resulting in the closure or realignment of hundreds of military installations across the country. While many communities have worked to transition these properties to civilian use, former military installations often continue to face economic challenges, including job losses, declining tax revenues, and costly infrastructure needs.

TheIncreasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act would create a new pathway for census tracts containing former military installations closed under BRAC authorities to be designated as Qualified Opportunity Zones. The legislation would allow states to nominate these areas for QOZ designation without counting them against the current cap on eligible Opportunity Zone tracts.

“Former military installations have the potential to become engines of economic growth, manufacturing, and job creation,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan legislation will give Pennsylvania communities the tools they need to attract private investment, support reindustrialization, and revitalize properties that have long served our national security interests.”

“Former military installations face unique challenges in redevelopment, and our bill will help states attract investment and spur growth in these areas once again,” said Senator Schatz.

BRAC sites often include substantial infrastructure, transportation access, and developable land that make them well-positioned to support advanced manufacturing, logistics, energy production, and other economic activity. Expanding Opportunity Zone eligibility to these areas would encourage long-term private investment and accelerate redevelopment efforts in communities impacted by base closures.

The Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act is supported by the following stakeholders:

“The Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act of 2026 represents a strategic investment in communities impacted by BRAC closures, creating new opportunities for economic growth, redevelopment, and long-term resilience in areas surrounding former and realigned military installations. We are encouraged by the opportunities this action could create for local communities and regional economic growth,” said Dr. Anette Nance, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Military Community Enhancement Commission.

“We are grateful for the bipartisan leadership and foresight of Senator McCormick and Senator Schatz for introducing legislation that would extend Opportunity Zone eligibility to former military bases impacted by the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) program. As master developer of the Philadelphia Navy Yard, PIDC knows firsthand that when a base closes, thousands of jobs disappear overnight — and that rebuilding takes decades of sustained public investment before private capital can follow. We have made significant progress in redeveloping the site, but the most challenging sections of the Navy Yard still require the kind of long-term commitment that conventional financing struggles to support. Opportunity Zones can help fill a unique gap: by drawing equity capital from investors who would not otherwise engage with complex projects like former military bases, and connecting that capital to job creation, housing, and community reinvestment that transforms these sites for the long term. With the passage of this legislation, hundreds of former military communities that absorbed the economic devastation of base closures would benefit from similar investment and opportunity to rebuild and thrive,” said Jodie Harris, President, Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC).

The Increasing Opportunity for Reindustrialization Act retains the requirement that states nominate BRAC locations for designation while ensuring these tracts do not count against the total number of Qualified Opportunity Zones currently allowed under law.

The full text of the bill may be found here.

###",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-and-gallego-introduce-bill-to-advance-job-opportunities-in-tech-for-veterans/,SENATOR MCCORMICK AND GALLEGO INTRODUCE BILL TO ADVANCE JOB OPPORTUNITIES IN TECH FOR VETERANS,2026-05-15,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) recently introduced the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation aimed at helping veterans transition to civilian life by expanding career opportunities in emerging technologies through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC) program.

“While the transition back to civilian life isn’t always easy, I know firsthand as a veteran that our service men and women return as leaders, highly skilled and ready to contribute. It is our job to make sure the doors are open when they get home,” said Senator McCormick. “With over 200,000 service members leaving the military each year, the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act does exactly that by helping to connect veterans in Pennsylvania and across the country to job opportunities in high-growth tech industries where they can find stable employment, financial security and a renewed sense of purpose.”

“Emerging technologies like semiconductor manufacturing are creating thousands of good-paying jobs and shaping the future of Arizona’s economy. This bill would make sure veterans can use the education benefits they earned to train for careers in these rapidly growing industries and help America stay the global leader in technological innovation,” said Senator Gallego.

A successful transition from military to civilian life is more than finding a job. It helps provide long-term stability for veterans and their families while strengthening our workforce. The VET TEC program connects veterans with leading training providers to help them develop or advance in skills needed for high-tech industries. This bill would broaden the current program, adding training and employment pathways in emerging industries, like artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing, so veterans are equipped with the skills needed to compete for high-demand jobs in our modern economy.

Specifically, the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026 will:

Direct the VA to identify and designate technologies of critical national importance as “emerging technologies” eligible under the VET TEC program, with artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing as named examples.

Require the VA to promote emerging technology fields, courses, and career pathways on its website and incorporate them into transition assistance services, so veterans and transitioning service members are aware of these opportunities.

Require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to work with private-sector partners, educational institutions, veteran-serving nonprofits to identify industries and occupations expected to experience significant job growth driven by emerging technologies with a focus on fields that align with veterans’ existing education, training, and skills.

The following organizations and stakeholders have expressed support for the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026:

“The VFW supports the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act, which will help veterans access education and training programs for high-demand careers in emerging technology fields such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing. By requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to collaborate with industry partners, expand visibility through the Transition Assistance Program, and implement an expedited course approval process, this legislation will better position veterans to succeed in the workforce of tomorrow,” said Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) National Legislative Service Associate Director Joe Grassi.

“IAVA survey data has consistently shown that veterans are chronically underemployed compared to their level of expertise, abilities, and skillset,” said Dr. Kyleanne Hunter, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) CEO. “We welcome the Senate introduction of the Improving Emerging Tech Options for Veterans Act of 2026, which will help bridge the gap between our veterans’ true capabilities and the high-skilled careers where we know they can excel.”

Senator McCormick has introduced or cosponsored several additional bills in support of our veterans including:

The Veterans Traumatic Brain Injury Adaptive Care Opportunities Nationwide Act, which would create a new grant program to fund innovative treatments for chronic mild TBI—an injury that affects thousands of our veterans and is linked to mental health struggles and suicide risk.

TheVA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project of 2025, which would establish a pilot program to significantly reduce veteran suicides by providing extensive training for VA staff about suicide screening, risk assessment, treatment, and care transition procedures.

The Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act, which wouldpermanently exclude disability payments from income calculations used to determine housing assistance eligibility ensuring veterans can access HUD-VA housing support without being penalized for benefits they already earned through their service.

The Innovative Therapies Centers of Excellence Act of 2025, which would increase federally funded research on innovative therapies to treat veterans experiencing conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder, and depression.

The full text of the Improving Emerging Tech Opportunities for Veterans Act of 2026 may be found here.

###",1,2026-05-16T06:05:00Z,2026-05-16T06:06:37Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-urges-fema-to-release-more-than-600-million-in-delayed-reimbursements-for-pennsylvania-hospitals/,SENATOR MCCORMICK URGES FEMA TO RELEASE MORE THAN $600 MILLION IN DELAYED REIMBURSEMENTS FOR PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITALS,2026-05-13,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin urging the agency to release nearly $600 million in approved COVID-19 reimbursement funding owed to Pennsylvania hospitals and health systems.

In the letter, Senator McCormick raised concerns about the ongoing delays in disbursing Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance funds tied to pandemic response efforts and highlighted the continued financial strain facing healthcare providers across the Commonwealth.

“Pennsylvania hospitals stepped up during the pandemic when communities needed them most,” said Senator McCormick. “They expanded capacity, protected frontline healthcare workers, and ensured patients continued receiving care under unprecedented circumstances. FEMA approved funding to reimburse those efforts, yet nearly $600 million remains unpaid. These providers upheld their commitment to Pennsylvanians, and the federal government should uphold its commitment to them.”

Senator McCormick is committed to ensuring that Pennsylvania hospitals receive the reimbursements they are owed so they can continue delivering critical care and protecting communities across the Commonwealth.

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-05-14T06:11:37Z,2026-05-14T06:12:56Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-introduces-legislation-to-address-federal-permitting-chokepoints/,SENATOR MCCORMICK INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS FEDERAL PERMITTING CHOKEPOINTS,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Bill targets four key chokepoints slowing infrastructure projects, driving up costs, and blocking American energy from reaching global markets

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today introduced the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act, legislation designed to streamline the federal permitting process and bring greater certainty to the approval of energy infrastructure projects. More than $1 trillion in critical infrastructure projects are currently tied up in federal permitting, representing an estimated $2.4 trillion in unrealized economic activity and thousands of jobs. At a time of rising electricity demand and growing global competition, the bill establishes clear timelines, modernizes approval processes, removes unnecessary barriers, and reduces litigation-driven delays that have made it increasingly difficult to build in the United States.

“Pennsylvania has the workers, resources, and infrastructure to power this region and the country for decades,” said Senator McCormick. ” What we’re missing is a federal permitting system with clear rules and predictable timelines. For Pennsylvania’s energy workforce and building trades, this bill is long overdue. It’s time we reform our current system and get America building again.”

Today, more than 650 projects are currently listed on the federal Permitting Dashboard.

Construction costs run 24 to 30 percent higher when projects are held up. But the impact goes beyond delayed projects. According to an industry report, nearly 51 percent of manufacturers say permitting uncertainty discourages them from investing in new or expanded U.S. capacity, while nearly 66 percent say they would invest more if the process were faster and more predictable. The permitting system is not just slowing projects down, it is preventing a significant share of investment from being proposed in the first place.

The Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act targets four specific chokepoints:

Water Permitting Reform: States have exploited the Clean Water Act’s water quality certification process to block energy projects through indefinite delay and unexplained denials, often for reasons that have nothing to do with water quality. This section sets a firm one-year deadline for state review, requires written explanations for any denial, and limits states to reviewing actual water quality concerns.

LNG Export Deregulation: An outdated federal approval requirement forces American LNG exporters to seek case-by-case federal permission before selling gas abroad. This section cuts through the red tape that federal regulators have used to slow or block LNG terminal approvals, prevents regulators from imposing burdensome conditions unrelated to project safety, and ensures that environmental reviews cannot be used to second-guess whether American LNG exports serve the national interest, clearing the way for American gas to reach allies in Europe and Asia more quickly and reliably.

Nuclear Licensing Modernization: A 40-year license cap is a relic of an era when nuclear technology was unproven. Most U.S. reactors already operate well past that mark today. This section brings nuclear licensing into the 21st century by extending initial operating licenses from 40 to 60 years, while also protecting pre-approved sites from arbitrary expiration and cutting red tape for new nuclear projects without touching a single safety standard.

NEPA Litigation Reform: NEPA lawsuits have become the primary vehicle for stopping projects that have already cleared the regulatory process. This section limits what courts can do when projects are challenged, sets strict deadlines for resolving lawsuits, requires challengers to have been part of the original review, and prevents courts from vacating approved projects, keeping approvals in effect even while legal challenges are pending.

“The solution to our affordability crisis and the global race for AI is the expansion of infrastructure, which can be unlocked through permitting reforms that support the efficient buildout of pipelines to deliver reliable American energy where it is needed. Senator McCormick’s bill is an important step toward unleashing Pennsylvania’s energy resources to lower costs for Americans and support growing energy demand. We appreciate the Senator’s leadership and look forward to working with him and other Members of Congress to build on his proposal and enact strong permitting reforms,” said Williams President and CEO Chad Zamarin.

“For years, we have advocated for commonsense reforms that bring greater certainty, transparency and timeliness to the permitting process while maintaining strong environmental standards. Senator McCormick’s legislation is an important step forward. By advancing practical, high-level solutions – from improving NEPA timelines and judicial review to modernizing Clean Water Act implementation and streamlining LNG export approvals – it demonstrates how comprehensive permitting reform can unlock critical infrastructure development, strengthen energy reliability and help keep energy affordable for American families and businesses. We appreciate the Senator’s leadership and look forward to working with him and others in Congress to turn these reforms into meaningful progress for Pennsylvania and the nation,” said Toby Z. Rice, President & CEO, EQT.

“With thoughtful permitting reform, we can deliver reliable, affordable energy from resource-rich regions like Pennsylvania to the markets that need it most, supporting families, strengthening our local economies, and doing what Americans do best, innovate and create,” said Dennis Degner, CEO & President, Range Resources.

“The Pennsylvania state building trades are very appreciative of Senator McCormick taking the lead on permitting at the federal level. For far too long, this cumbersome process has held up or prevented critical infrastructure and energy projects that Pennsylvania needs to grow our economy. We look forward to his legislation passing both chambers and we look forward to working with the senator to build out Pennsylvania,”said Rob Bair, President, Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades.

“Pennsylvania Steamfitters are ready to build, but too many projects are stuck in permitting delays,”said Jim Snell, Steamfitters Local 420. “Senator McCormick’s bill helps keep Pennsylvania competitive and unlocks potential to build critical energy infrastructure.”

“On behalf of the Southeast Pennsylvania Building Trades, I want to thank Senator Dave McCormick for leading on this issue,” said Ryan N. Boyer, President of Laborers’ District Council of Philadelphia. “Our members are ready to build, but too many critical projects are tied up in permitting delays. This commonsense legislation will help create good-paying union jobs, strengthen our economy, and keep Pennsylvania on the rise.”

“Permitting reform is essential to America’s manufacturing competitiveness—and today’s broken system is costing manufacturers more than $8 billion each year. We are grateful for Sen. McCormick’s leadership in introducing the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act. Modernizing the Clean Water Act, reforming judicial review under NEPA for all projects, ensuring durable support for U.S. LNG exports and bringing new nuclear power online are all critical steps toward a policy framework that will drive investment, power growth and keep manufacturing strong in America for decades to come,” said Jay Timmons, President and CEO, National Association of Manufacturers.

“We appreciate Senator McCormick’s leadership in advancing a serious conversation on permitting reform at a critical moment for American energy. This legislation reflects a growing recognition that modernizing NEPA, the Clean Water Act, and judicial review are essential to building the infrastructure needed to deliver affordable, reliable energy. We’ll continue working with him and Congress to advance durable, commonsense reforms that strengthen U.S. competitiveness and energy security,” said API SVP of Federal Government Affairs Kristin Whitman.

“Pennsylvania sits atop one of the largest energy reserves in the world with enough natural gas resources under our feet to power the Commonwealth and the nation. But the economic potential of this resource can only be realized if government moves at the speed of business. We are extremely grateful for Senator McCormick’s continued leadership to unleash Pennsylvania’s energy resources and the economic and national security benefits that come with it. The permit reforms put forth by Senator McCormick will provide meaningful changes allowing us to efficiently utilize our vast and reliable energy reserves and help secure our shared goal of energy dominance,” said Jim Welty, President of the Marcellus Shale Coalition.

“INGAA appreciates Senator McCormick’s leadership in advancing the conversation on improving the efficiency and predictability of federal permitting. The proposal reflects constructive concepts – particularly on Clean Water Act clarity, general permitting, and timely decision-making – that align with long-standing priorities for natural gas pipeline infrastructure. We view this proposal as a helpful contribution to the broader permitting reform dialogue and look forward to continuing to work with policymakers and stakeholders to advance practical, durable solutions,”said Amy Andryszak, President and CEO, Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA).

“Permitting reform is essential to building the energy infrastructure needed to power America’s economic growth and compete in the AI race. We applaud Senator Dave McCormick for his leadership on this issue of critical importance to Pennsylvania and the nation. As the nation’s largest producer of around-the-clock, emissions-free energy, we also appreciate the bill’s recognition of the important role that nuclear power plays in delivering reliable, affordable, and clean electricity,”said David C. Brown, Senior Vice President, Federal Government Affairs & Public Policy, Constellation.

“The Center for LNG (CLNG) supports the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act of 2026. The bill includes important provisions to improve the permitting process for U.S. LNG facilities and bring additional supply to market faster. The U.S. LNG industry supports thousands of good-paying jobs right here in the United States; generates millions in tax revenue for federal, state, and local governments; grows our domestic supply; reduces global greenhouse gas emissions; and supplies our allies and trading partners with a reliable, clean, and safe source of energy. This bill would provide greater certainty for project developers, natural gas producers, local communities, and our allies and trading partners around the world. CLNG urges support for the Unlock American Energy and Jobs Act of 2026,” said Charlie Riedl, Executive Director at the Center for LNG.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-gillibrand-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-prediction-markets-and-protect-everyday-investors/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, GILLIBRAND INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN PREDICTION MARKETS AND PROTECT EVERYDAY INVESTORS",2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Bill establishes clear rules of the road for event contracts while keeping the United States at the forefront of financial innovation

WASHINGTON – Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) today introduced the Prediction Market Act of 2026, legislation to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for prediction markets, ensuring these powerful financial tools operate with transparency, integrity, and strong protections for everyday Americans.

Prediction markets have emerged as some of the most accurate forecasting tools available, turning collective knowledge into real-time signals about future political, economic, and other outcomes. Beyond forecasting, these markets provide real economic value, allowing agriculture producers to manage weather conditions, investors to hedge portfolio risk, and small businesses to protect themselves against sudden cost increases. With proper guidelines in place, the United States can lead the responsible development of this growing industry rather than allow regulatory uncertainty to push it offshore.

“Prediction markets are already changing how Americans understand and manage risk,” said Senator McCormick. “This legislation gives these markets the clear rules they need to grow responsibly, protects everyday investors who are participating in them, and ensures the United States remains the global leader in financial innovation.”

“Elected officials should be working for the people they represent — not lining their own pockets with insider information. Americans deserve financial markets that are fair, transparent, and not tilted in favor of those with privileged access,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill puts strong guardrails in place to protect consumers, prevent insider trading, and hold prediction market platforms to standards of integrity.”

What does the bill do?

The legislation takes several concrete steps to modernize the regulatory framework for event contracts and prediction markets. These steps include:

Defines an event contract, public interest, and relevant terms to limit uncertainty in prediction markets.

Requires individual review of event contracts that involve the enumerated activities, including violence, using newly established criteria to scope the public interest determination.

Establishes enhanced certification standards on listing event contracts and disclosures prioritizing retail customer readability.

Requires exchanges that offer event contracts to implement safeguards related to advertisement, Know-Your-Customer standards, and fund segregation.

Prohibits lawmakers and high-ranking government officials from owning event contacts, eliminating any potential conflict of interest.

Creates a new Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Office of the Retail Advocate to support the interests of retail investors.

Establishes an Advisory Council on Consumer Protection to analyze and recommend additional safeguards for customers.

Creates an Innovation Advisory Committee to advise the commission on policy issues at the intersection of technology and finance.

Requires the CFTC to study and report to Congress on new developments in these fast-moving markets.

Background

Prediction markets operating under CFTC oversight are already subject to rules protecting against fraud and manipulation. However, the rapid growth of retail participation in these markets has outpaced the existing legal framework, creating potential gaps in consumer protection and regulatory clarity. This legislation addresses those gaps while preserving the innovation and discovery potential that make prediction markets valuable to the public.",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-smith-tillis-and-gallego-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-extend-the-terrorism-risk-insurance-program-for-seven-years-2/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, SMITH, TILLIS, AND GALLEGO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO EXTEND THE TERRORISM RISK INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR SEVEN YEARS",2026-04-27,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) today introduced the bipartisan Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026, which is essential to economic security by safeguarding the availability of terrorism risk coverage.

This legislation is also cosponsored by Chairman Scott (R-SC), Senators Banks (R-IN), Britt (R-AL), Crapo (R-ID), Hagerty (R-TN), Kennedy (R-LA), Lummis (R-WY), Moreno (R-OH), Ricketts (R-NE), Rounds (R-SD), Kim (D-NJ), Van Hollen (D-MD), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Cramer (R-ND), Alsobrooks (D-MD), Schumer (D-NY), Warner (D-VA), Warnock (D-GA), and Blunt-Rochester (D-DE).

Following the attacks on September 11, 2001, most states began allowing terrorism risk to be excluded from commercial insurance policies, leaving businesses and industries without access to coverage. Since insurance is a precondition for commercial lending and real estate transactions, this gap in coverage threatened broad economic damage across real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and related industries. Congress responded by passing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (TRIA), creating a federal reinsurance backstop to stabilize the private market and ensure that commercial policyholders could continue to obtain terrorism risk coverage.

The private insurance market has relied on the TRIA backstop ever since. When TRIA briefly lapsed in December 2014, terrorism exclusions that insurers had pre-filed with state regulators took effect automatically, making terrorism coverage effectively unavailable across commercial policies nationwide. As a result, terrorism risk coverage was removed from policyholders immediately and without notice. Given that the current threat landscape remains elevated, allowing a similar lapse in terrorism coverage would expose policy holders to unnecessary financial risk and uncertainty.

“State sponsors of terror pose a persistent threat to the United States, and we must be prepared,” said Senator McCormick. “Reauthorizing TRIA ensures businesses and workers in Pennsylvania will be supported in the event of a terror attack.”

“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is critical to keeping insurance available and affordable to businesses in Minnesota and across the country so they can grow and create jobs,” said Senator Smith. “Without this bill, a potential terrorism event would mean a financial catastrophe for many businesses and would be extremely costly to taxpayers. I’ve worked to make sure this bipartisan measure stays in place since I came to the Senate, and I’m glad to be introducing my TRIA bill again to ensure this vital program doesn’t lapse.”

“Americans deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their businesses, jobs, and communities are protected in times of crisis. Reauthorizing TRIA will provide certainty for employers, support economic growth, and help keep coverage available and affordable. I’m proud to join Senator McCormick on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation,” said Chairman Scott.

“We have to make sure we’re prepared for the worst,”said Senator Gallego. “I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. This long-term reauthorization will ensure Arizona businesses can invest in their assets and create jobs with confidence and that they have the resources they need to recover in the event of a major terrorist attack.”

“Reauthorizing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to ensuring businesses have the certainty they need to operate and invest with confidence,”said Senator Tillis.“This longstanding public-private partnership has helped safeguard our economy for more than two decades, and extending it will prevent disruption while ensuring we remain prepared for evolving threats.”“In this dangerous moment when America faces growing threats from around the world, our communities need to know that their property is insured in the event of a major terror attack. Renewing TRIA with bipartisan support is an essential precautionary step we must take to ensure Americans have access to insurance and avoid economic peril by allowing them to recover and rebuild in the wake of an unimaginable tragedy,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“For more than two decades, Congress has recognized the need for the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program. While making sure American businesses have access to this protection is an unfortunate necessity in today’s world, it’s critical that Congress extend the program,”said Senator Britt.

“From the Super Bowl to the World Series of Poker to F1 races, the Silver State regularly hosts large gatherings,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “While these events are critically important to Nevada’s tourism industry, they also create unique risks. Extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance program would help Nevada’s economy recover should a debilitating terrorist attack occur and ensures the continued availability of terrorism insurance for our businesses.”

“Lack of insurance coverage had a destabilizing effect on the U.S. economy in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. TRIA has made coverage for terrorism risk insurance more available and affordable in Idaho and across the nation. This reauthorization ensures continued private-sector responsibility and safeguards our economy against potential future threats,” said Senator Crapo.

“It is critical for the national and financial security of our nation that Congress pass the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2026 – let’s act before this policy lapses to provide certainty for businesses,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“In the wake of the September 11th attacks, Congress created the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program to support Americans during crises. As America continues to deal with heightened terrorism threats, this program remains as relevant as ever. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing a bill to get ahead of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act’s expiration date, pass an extension and prevent any lapse in coverage,” said Sen. John Kennedy.

“Congress cannot let local communities foot the bill for possible terrorist attacks,” said Senator Moreno. “It is critical that we protect American jobs and ensure that businesses across the country have the tools they need to respond to and recover from these catastrophic events.”

“After the horrendous September 11th attacks, we learned that failing to insure against losses from terrorism doesn’t just threaten individual businesses, it also undermines our entire economy. I am proud to have helped pass the original Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, which has been critical to safeguarding our real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and other vital industries against losses due to terrorist attacks,” said Leader Schumer. “Reauthorizing this program for seven years is common sense to provide certainty, stability, and protection for jobs, businesses, and our economy in the face of evolving threats.”

“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act will provide certainty for insurers, businesses, and large community events that bring Nebraskans together,” said Senator Ricketts. “We must reauthorize this program and ensure we are protected and prepared for any potential future threat. I encourage my colleagues to quickly send TRIA Reauthorization to the President’s desk.”

“The threat of terror attacks doesn’t just impact lives, it impacts livelihoods. New Jerseyans saw that in the aftermath of 9/11, and we know that in the same way it’s important to invest in efforts to protect our country, it’s important that we reauthorize the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program,” said Senator Kim.

“The September 11th attacks highlighted a severe gap in coverage for businesses caught in the aftereffects of terrorist activity,” said Senator Cramer. “The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to maintain stability when malign disruptions occur. This reauthorization extends the program for another seven years, preventing any lapse in coverage.”

“We know what happens when terrorism risk goes uninsured – the market freezes, projects stall, and the ripple effects hit workers and communities across the country,”said Senator Warner. “TRIA makes sure that businesses can continue building, investing, and creating jobs. It’s an important public-private partnership that gives lenders and developers the certainty they need to keep capital flowing and investments moving. Congress should get this done and provide the stability that the market depends on to move forward.” “If tragedy strikes, our communities cannot afford economic disruption on top of it. TRIA must be extended to ensure businesses can access affordable terrorism insurance and keep our economy resilient in the face of evolving threats,”said Senator Blunt-Rochester.

“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program has been a critical backstop for American businesses and communities since the devastating economic fallout of September 11th, and Congress cannot allow that protection to lapse,” said Senator Lummis. “Wyoming deserves the certainty this program provides, and I am proud to join my colleagues in reauthorizing TRIA to keep our businesses, our economy, and our communities protected against any threat.”

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026 would extend TRIA by seven years. Acting before the program expiration date of December 31, 2027, provides long-term market certainty and would prevent policyholders from facing a gap in coverage.

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act is also backed by the following stakeholders:

Aerospace Industries Association

American Association of Port Authorities

American Bankers Association

American Council on Education

American Council of Engineering Companies

American Gaming Association

American Hotel and Lodging Association

American Land Title Association

American Property Casualty Insurance Association

American Public Gas Association

American Public Power Association

American Resort Development Association

American Society of Association Executives

Associated General Contractors of America

Association of American Railroads

Association of Art Museum Directors

Bank Policy Institute, Building Owners and Managers Association International

Commercial Real Estate Finance Council (CRE Finance Council), Community Associations Institute

Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers, Edison Electric Institute, Food Marketing Institute

Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America

Innovating Commerce Serving Communities, Institute of Real Estate Management

International Franchise Association, International Safety Equipment Association

Long Island Import Export Association

Mortgage Bankers Association, NAIOP

Nareit

National Apartment Association

National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR)

National Association of Chain Drug Stores

National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO)

National Association of Home Builders

National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies

National Association of REALTORS

National Association of Waterfront Employers

National Council of Chain Restaurants

National Electrical Contractors Association

National Football League

National Hockey League

National Multifamily Housing Council

National Restaurant Association

National Retail Federation

National Roofing Contractors Association

National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

New England Council

Office of the Commissioner of Baseball

Partnership for NYC

Public Utilities Risk Management Association

The Real Estate Board of New York

The Real Estate Roundtable

Reinsurance Association of America

Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association

University Risk Management and Insurance Association

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

U.S. Travel Association",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-smith-tillis-and-gallego-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-extend-the-terrorism-risk-insurance-program-for-seven-years/,"Senators McCormick, Smith, Tillis, and Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program for Seven Years",2026-04-27,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) today introduced the bipartisan Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026, which is essential to economic security by safeguarding the availability of terrorism risk coverage.

This legislation is also cosponsored by Chairman Scott (R-SC), Senators Banks (R-IN), Britt (R-AL), Crapo (R-ID), Hagerty (R-TN), Kennedy (R-LA), Lummis (R-WY), Moreno (R-OH), Ricketts (R-NE), Rounds (R-SD), Kim (D-NJ), Van Hollen (D-MD), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Cramer (R-ND), Alsobrooks (D-MD), Schumer (D-NY), Warner (D-VA), Warnock (D-GA), and Blunt-Rochester (D-DE).

Following the attacks on September 11, 2001, most states began allowing terrorism risk to be excluded from commercial insurance policies, leaving businesses and industries without access to coverage. Since insurance is a precondition for commercial lending and real estate transactions, this gap in coverage threatened broad economic damage across real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and related industries. Congress responded by passing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002 (TRIA), creating a federal reinsurance backstop to stabilize the private market and ensure that commercial policyholders could continue to obtain terrorism risk coverage.

The private insurance market has relied on the TRIA backstop ever since. When TRIA briefly lapsed in December 2014, terrorism exclusions that insurers had pre-filed with state regulators took effect automatically, making terrorism coverage effectively unavailable across commercial policies nationwide. As a result, terrorism risk coverage was removed from policyholders immediately and without notice. Given that the current threat landscape remains elevated, allowing a similar lapse in terrorism coverage would expose policy holders to unnecessary financial risk and uncertainty.

“State sponsors of terror pose a persistent threat to the United States, and we must be prepared,” said Senator McCormick. “Reauthorizing TRIA ensures businesses and workers in Pennsylvania will be supported in the event of a terror attack.”

“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is critical to keeping insurance available and affordable to businesses in Minnesota and across the country so they can grow and create jobs,” said Senator Smith. “Without this bill, a potential terrorism event would mean a financial catastrophe for many businesses and would be extremely costly to taxpayers. I’ve worked to make sure this bipartisan measure stays in place since I came to the Senate, and I’m glad to be introducing my TRIA bill again to ensure this vital program doesn’t lapse.”

“Americans deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their businesses, jobs, and communities are protected in times of crisis. Reauthorizing TRIA will provide certainty for employers, support economic growth, and help keep coverage available and affordable. I’m proud to join Senator McCormick on this common-sense, bipartisan legislation,” said Chairman Scott.

“We have to make sure we’re prepared for the worst,” said Senator Gallego. “I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. This long-term reauthorization will ensure Arizona businesses can invest in their assets and create jobs with confidence and that they have the resources they need to recover in the event of a major terrorist attack.”

“Reauthorizing the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to ensuring businesses have the certainty they need to operate and invest with confidence,” said Senator Tillis.“This longstanding public-private partnership has helped safeguard our economy for more than two decades, and extending it will prevent disruption while ensuring we remain prepared for evolving threats.”“In this dangerous moment when America faces growing threats from around the world, our communities need to know that their property is insured in the event of a major terror attack. Renewing TRIA with bipartisan support is an essential precautionary step we must take to ensure Americans have access to insurance and avoid economic peril by allowing them to recover and rebuild in the wake of an unimaginable tragedy,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“For more than two decades, Congress has recognized the need for the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program. While making sure American businesses have access to this protection is an unfortunate necessity in today’s world, it’s critical that Congress extend the program,”said Senator Britt.

“From the Super Bowl to the World Series of Poker to F1 races, the Silver State regularly hosts large gatherings,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “While these events are critically important to Nevada’s tourism industry, they also create unique risks. Extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance program would help Nevada’s economy recover should a debilitating terrorist attack occur and ensures the continued availability of terrorism insurance for our businesses.”

“Lack of insurance coverage had a destabilizing effect on the U.S. economy in the wake of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. TRIA has made coverage for terrorism risk insurance more available and affordable in Idaho and across the nation. This reauthorization ensures continued private-sector responsibility and safeguards our economy against potential future threats,” said Senator Crapo.

“It is critical for the national and financial security of our nation that Congress pass the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2026 – let’s act before this policy lapses to provide certainty for businesses,” said Senator Alsobrooks.

“In the wake of the September 11th attacks, Congress created the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program to support Americans during crises. As America continues to deal with heightened terrorism threats, this program remains as relevant as ever. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing a bill to get ahead of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act’s expiration date, pass an extension and prevent any lapse in coverage,” said Sen. John Kennedy.

“Congress cannot let local communities foot the bill for possible terrorist attacks,” said Senator Moreno. “It is critical that we protect American jobs and ensure that businesses across the country have the tools they need to respond to and recover from these catastrophic events.”

“After the horrendous September 11th attacks, we learned that failing to insure against losses from terrorism doesn’t just threaten individual businesses, it also undermines our entire economy. I am proud to have helped pass the original Terrorism Risk Insurance Act, which has been critical to safeguarding our real estate, construction, energy, transportation, and other vital industries against losses due to terrorist attacks,” said Leader Schumer. “Reauthorizing this program for seven years is common sense to provide certainty, stability, and protection for jobs, businesses, and our economy in the face of evolving threats.”

“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act will provide certainty for insurers, businesses, and large community events that bring Nebraskans together,” said Senator Ricketts. “We must reauthorize this program and ensure we are protected and prepared for any potential future threat. I encourage my colleagues to quickly send TRIA Reauthorization to the President’s desk.”

“The threat of terror attacks doesn’t just impact lives, it impacts livelihoods. New Jerseyans saw that in the aftermath of 9/11, and we know that in the same way it’s important to invest in efforts to protect our country, it’s important that we reauthorize the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program,” said Senator Kim.

“The September 11th attacks highlighted a severe gap in coverage for businesses caught in the aftereffects of terrorist activity,” said Senator Cramer. “The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program is essential to maintain stability when malign disruptions occur. This reauthorization extends the program for another seven years, preventing any lapse in coverage.”

“We know what happens when terrorism risk goes uninsured – the market freezes, projects stall, and the ripple effects hit workers and communities across the country,” said Senator Warner. “TRIA makes sure that businesses can continue building, investing, and creating jobs. It’s an important public-private partnership that gives lenders and developers the certainty they need to keep capital flowing and investments moving. Congress should get this done and provide the stability that the market depends on to move forward.” “If tragedy strikes, our communities cannot afford economic disruption on top of it. TRIA must be extended to ensure businesses can access affordable terrorism insurance and keep our economy resilient in the face of evolving threats,” said Senator Blunt-Rochester.

“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program has been a critical backstop for American businesses and communities since the devastating economic fallout of September 11th, and Congress cannot allow that protection to lapse,” said Senator Lummis. “Wyoming deserves the certainty this program provides, and I am proud to join my colleagues in reauthorizing TRIA to keep our businesses, our economy, and our communities protected against any threat.”

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 20 26 would extend TRIA by seven years. Acting before the program expiration date of December 31, 2027, provides long-term market certainty and would prevent policyholders from facing a gap in coverage.

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026 would extend TRIA by seven years. Acting before the program expiration date of December 31, 2027, provides long-term market certainty and would prevent policyholders from facing a gap in coverage.

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act is also backed by the following stakeholders: Aerospace Industries Association, American Association of Port Authorities, American Bankers Association, American Council on Education, American Council of Engineering Companies, American Gaming Association, American Hotel and Lodging Association, American Land Title Association, American Property Casualty Insurance Association, American Public Gas Association, American Public Power Association, American Resort Development Association, American Society of Association Executives, Associated General Contractors of America, Association of American Railroads, Association of Art Museum Directors, Bank Policy Institute, Building Owners and Managers Association International, Commercial Real Estate Finance Council (CRE Finance Council), Community Associations Institute, Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers, Edison Electric Institute, Food Marketing Institute, Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, Innovating Commerce Serving Communities, Institute of Real Estate Management, International Franchise Association, International Safety Equipment Association, Long Island Import Export Association, Mortgage Bankers Association, NAIOP, Nareit, National Apartment Association, National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR), National Association of Chain Drug Stores, National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), National Association of Home Builders, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, National Association of REALTORS, National Association of Waterfront Employers, National Council of Chain Restaurants, National Electrical Contractors Association, National Football League, National Hockey League, National Multifamily Housing Council, National Restaurant Association, National Retail Federation, National Roofing Contractors Association, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, New England Council, Office of the Commissioner of Baseball, Partnership for NYC, Public Utilities Risk Management Association, The Real Estate Board of New York, The Real Estate Roundtable, Reinsurance Association of America, Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association, University Risk Management and Insurance Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Travel Association.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-04-29T06:03:53Z,2026-04-29T06:05:09Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/energy-department-preserves-nearly-5-billion-for-hydrogen-hubs-including-two-hubs-critical-to-pennsylvania/,"Energy Department Preserves Nearly $5 Billion for Hydrogen Hubs, Including Two Hubs Critical to Pennsylvania",2026-04-21,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced it will preserve nearly $5 billion in funding for five hydrogen hubs across the country, including two with significant Pennsylvania partnerships — the Mid-Atlantic Clean Hydrogen Hub (MACH2) and the Appalachian Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (ARCH2). This decision confirms awards for five hubs following a broader DOE review of more than 2,200 energy projects.

“I am proud to have fought for this funding and to see it preserved,” said Senator Dave McCormick. “These two hydrogen hubs are expected to create 41,000 jobs, putting skilled building trades workers such as pipefitters, electricians, carpenters, and welders to work constructing the infrastructure for these new projects. This is a win for Pennsylvania workers, our economy, and our energy future. Pennsylvania has always been an energy leader, and these hubs ensure we remain at the forefront of what comes next.”

In response to Senator McCormick’s question about funding for the hydrogen hubs during the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing today, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said “We are absolutely funding these in phases and will be working with those various contracting groups to see their progress and is it continuing on a pathway to get to a good result.”

A hydrogen hub is a regional network connecting the producers, distributors, and users of hydrogen energy. Clean hydrogen can be produced from a range of domestic sources, including nuclear power, renewables, and fossil fuels with carbon capture making it one of the most versatile tools available for reducing emissions in heavy industry and long-haul transportation.

MACH2, serving Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, is expected to create over 20,000 jobs. ARCH2, serving Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, is expected to create more than 21,000 jobs. These hubs build on Pennsylvania’s long history as an American energy leader, reinforcing an all-of-the-above energy strategy while driving innovation and deployment in a region where both population and power demand continue to grow.

“MACH2 is deeply grateful to Senator McCormick for his unwavering commitment to the Pennsylvania hydrogen hubs and the hydrogen industry. His leadership has been critical in preserving this funding and sets the path for PA to continue its long history as a pioneer in American energy and industrial dominance,” says Manny Citron, COO of MACH2.

“ARCH2 is pleased to receive notification from the U.S. Department of Energy this week to continue moving forward with our hydrogen hub. This milestone, made possible through the support of our Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio Congressional delegations, especially Senators McCormick and Capito, affirms our shared commitment to advancing regional development and economic growth in Appalachia,” said Shawn Bennett, spokesperson for ARCH2.

“I appreciate the hard work of Senator Dave McCormick on making sure that we saved the hydrogen hub jobs for working people. These jobs are not only good for the country, but they create a lot of construction jobs for various building trades unions and anything that creates jobs – we are in favor of. We appreciate the hard work of Senator Dave McCormick on always thinking about working people and looking out for the jobs of the workers we represent,” said Ken Broadbent, Business Manager for Steamfitters Local 449 in Pittsburgh, PA.

“We are incredibly grateful for Senator McCormick’s steadfast leadership and his proactive engagement with the Department of Energy to preserve these vital hydrogen hubs. His personal advocacy comes at a critical moment, ensuring that Southwestern Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of the national energy dominance agenda,” said Stefani Pashman, CEO, Allegheny Conference on Community Development. “The Allegheny Conference has worked diligently to build the regional case and mobilize our industrial partners, and this victory validates our collective efforts to activate strategic assets that will stimulate our economy. Production of hydrogen has enormous upstream and downstream opportunities. Together, we are securing a future that leverages our natural gas infrastructure to create tens of thousands of jobs and positions our Commonwealth as a leader in the global energy transition.”

“The Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades would like to thank Senator McCormick for his perseverance on the construction of the two hydrogen hubs in Pennsylvania. These projects are critical in helping achieve energy independence while creating over 40,000 jobs, many of which will be members of the building trades. The Senator has committed to building energy projects and this announcement reaffirms his commitment to build in Pennsylvania and to reach energy independence,” said Rob Bair, President, PA State Building and Construction Trades.

“Senator McCormick’s commitment to preserving these two hydrogen hubs is a direct investment in Pennsylvania workers. These projects are expected to generate more than 40,000 jobs, with thousands of them in the building trades, while reinforcing Pennsylvania as a national leader in energy production. Our members appreciate Senator McCormick’s leadership and support because when America’s infrastructure needs things built, our skilled workers show up to get the job done,” said Jim Snell, Business Manager, Steamfitters Local 420.

###",1,2026-04-23T05:48:52Z,2026-04-23T05:50:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-senator-mccormick-introduces-kevin-warsh-for-federal-reserve-chair-before-senate-banking-committee/,Watch: Senator McCormick Introduces Kevin Warsh for Federal Reserve Chair Before Senate Banking Committee,2026-04-21,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"“Colleagues, Kevin Warsh has lived the American Dream. I know in my heart he will always fight to keep that dream alive for all Americans. He is the right man for this pivotal moment. I urge you to support his speedy confirmation.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today introduced his friend, Kevin Warsh, at his nomination hearing before the Senate Banking Committee to chair the Federal Reserve.

Click here to watch the video.

Senator McCormick’s remarks below (as prepared):

“Thank you, Chairman Scott, Ranking Member Warren, distinguished colleagues.

“It is my great honor to introduce my friend, Kevin Warsh, and to welcome him and his wife Jane here today.

“Winston Churchill observed that for great leaders there comes ‘a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing.’

“‘What a tragedy,’ he warned, ‘if that moment finds them unprepared for that which could have been their finest hour.’

“Colleagues, I am here today to assure you that Kevin Warsh could not be more prepared for this, his finest hour. There is no one more fitting, more qualified to face this consequential moment as the 17th Chair of the Federal Reserve.

“I will not belabor Kevin’s academic and professional record. They speak for themselves. Instead, I would like to tell you about a man who my wife Dina and I both worked closely with decades ago and who we have called a friend for almost 30 years.

“President George W. Bush famously appointed Kevin to the Federal Reserve Board in 2006, when Kevin was just 35.

“He was the youngest appointed board member in history. But President Bush saw in Kevin what I believe you will see as you question him today:

“Wisdom that belied his age, now deepened by experience.

“Moral clarity even in the most turbulent of times.

“A sharp and independent intellect, now further strengthened by decades immersed in unforgiving global financial markets.

“And a deep, honest understanding of how the decisions made in the marble halls of Washington affect the lives of hard-working Americans.

“I have seen these virtues on display across our decades of friendship.

“I first met Kevin in the late 1990s when he and my younger brother were junior associates on Wall Street.

“A decade later we served together in the crucible of the global financial crisis, I as Undersecretary of the Treasury for International Affairs at the time. Kevin on the Fed Board.

“For nearly 2 years, we worked hand-in-hand to contain the damage and navigate the country out of the crisis.

“I know then-Chairman Ben Bernanke relied heavily on Kevin during that turbulent time. I did too, and I have continued to seek his counsel regularly in the years since.

“Kevin came to Washington all those years ago as an outsider. An idealistic young man determined to serve his country, who succeeded beyond all expectations.

“He returns today as the ideal candidate for this most critical juncture.

“If confirmed, Kevin will inherit a Federal Reserve in need of repair and confronting serious uncertainty: an overextended balance sheet; a poor record on inflation; and a weak understanding of the profound opportunities offered in today’s economy.

“He is uniquely suited to confront these challenges.

“He brings a reformer’s heart. He will shake up a stagnant institution at a time when change is sorely needed.

“He possesses a deep understanding of markets and is trusted by leaders across the financial industry.

“But he equally understands the real economy.

“Born and raised in upstate New York, he knows from personal experience how the actions of the Fed can change the lives of working families.

“It is no small thing to know firsthand how an increase in gas prices or mortgage rates or an uptick in unemployment affect everyday Americans. The Federal Reserve must not be ruled by pointy-headed economists pouring over outdated models and reams of market data. It needs a leader who understands that the Fed’s mandate of stable prices and maximum employment serves a higher purpose: the preservation of the American Dream.

“Colleagues, Kevin Warsh has lived the American Dream. I know in my heart he will always fight to keep that dream alive for all Americans.

“He is the right man for this pivotal moment. I urge you to support his speedy confirmation.”

###",1,2026-04-23T05:48:52Z,2026-04-23T05:50:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-cortez-masto-push-to-protect-first-responders-and-roadside-workers/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, CORTEZ MASTO PUSH TO PROTECT FIRST RESPONDERS AND ROADSIDE WORKERS",2026-04-02,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) recently introduced the bipartisan Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act to protect first responders and roadside workers as they do their jobs on roads and highways. This legislation would enhance strategies to help reduce the risk of injury or death faced by law enforcement officers, emergency medical services, fire and rescue services, tow truck drivers, construction workers, and other roadside workers.

Nationwide, since 2020, more than 500 roadside workers have been killed doing their jobs on the side of the road. Many were tow truck operators, construction workers, and law enforcement officers. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation data reveals more than1,250 work zone crashes occurred in 2024, resulting in 22 deaths that included both workers and drivers. Additionally, 45 percent of Pennsylvania work zone crashes in 2024 contained fatalities or injuries.

“Every day in Pennsylvania and across the country, law enforcement officers, EMS crews, and roadside workers put themselves in harm’s way—often just feet from speeding traffic—to keep the rest of us safe,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan effort will improve data collection, strengthen public awareness, and prioritize safety in infrastructure projects from the start—helping protect those who protect us.”

“Over the past fifty years, America has worked to make roads safer for drivers and pedestrians, but we still have work to do to protect those whose jobs regularly put them on the side of the road,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “First responders and roadside workers risk death or injury every single day while responding to an emergency or maintaining our roads. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to help keep them safe.”

In order to protect first responders and roadside workers, the Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act would:

· Require states to improve data collection and analysis of highway worker injuries and fatalities and create a highway worker safety plan if the total number of injuries and fatalities increases over a 2-year period;

· Create a new Public Awareness Campaign to fully reflect the dangers all roadside workers face along our roadways and how the public can help protect them;

· Continue research and outreach efforts to enhance the safety of highway workers; and

· Require major infrastructure grant applicants to include protections expected to aid roadside workers and driving public safety during and after construction in their grant application.

The Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act is supported by the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA), the Association of General Contractors, the National Safety Council, the American Automobile Association (AAA), the National Association of State EMS Officials, the National Waste and Recycling Association, American Traffic Safety Services, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) Coalition.

“Towing and recovery professionals put their lives on the line every day to help motorists, protect first responders, and keep commerce flowing,” said Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) Executive Director Bruce Bender. “Despite the fact that, on average, statistics show we lose a tower every seven days, the risk to the lives of these dedicated professionals is often overlooked. Slow Down, Move Over laws need to be promoted and publicized because they are proven to save lives. We are deeply grateful that Senators McCormick and Cortez-Masto have introduced the Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act and have expressly included towing truck operators in promotion of the initiatives that protect them. TRAA proudly supports this legislation.”

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-04-05T05:34:57Z,2026-04-05T05:36:03Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-fbi-director-patel-convene-roundtable-on-combatting-fentanyl-crisis/,"SENATOR MCCORMICK, FBI DIRECTOR PATEL CONVENE ROUNDTABLE ON COMBATTING FENTANYL CRISIS",2026-04-01,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Roundtable Brings Together Federal and State Law Enforcement, Prosecutors, and Families Who Have Lost Loved Ones to Fentanyl to Discuss Progress Combatting Fentanyl

ALLENTOWN, PA — U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) hosted FBI Director Kash Patel in Allentown today for a roundtable discussion on the fentanyl crisis. The roundtable brought together federal and state law enforcement leaders, prosecutors, and families directly impacted by the epidemic to discuss enforcement efforts, disruption to trafficking networks, and the path forward on treatment and recovery.

“When I ran for Senate, I promised Pennsylvania families I would secure the border, take on the cartels, and stop the flow of fentanyl precursors from China. While there is more to do, we are making a lot of progress,” said Senator McCormick. “That is what a whole-of-government approach looks like, and I am grateful to Director Patel, the FBI, and state and local partners for their partnership in this fight.”

“Senator McCormick and our partners in Pennsylvania have been tremendous supporters for law enforcement, helping this FBI and interagency partners across the country deliver record results on tackling the fentanyl crisis within the last year alone,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “But we’re doubling down on and just getting started. I want to thank Senator McCormick for hosting this event and look forward to joining him, our law enforcement partners, and these brave families putting words into action so we can cut off the flow of deadly fentanyl and put away the criminal actors who traffic through our communities.”

Senator McCormick pledged to secure the border, dismantle the cartels, and stop the flow of fentanyl precursors from China. Today’s roundtable is a direct reflection of that commitment in action, and the results are beginning to show. From 2020 to 2023, fentanyl killed approximately 4,000 Pennsylvanians per year. Preliminary data indicates that figure fell to approximately 1,500 in 2025, the lowest level in a decade. From 2023 to 2024, Pennsylvania saw an over 30 percent decline in overdose deaths, representing one of the sharpest drops in the nation.

This progress is the direct result of law enforcement at every level working together toward a common mission. Senator McCormick and Director Patel were joined at the roundtable by law enforcement leaders and prosecutors whose work is driving those results.

Specifically, the FBI enforcement efforts include:

Nearly 5,000 pounds of fentanyl seized, up 31% year over year, and enough to kill 178 million Americans

66,600 kilograms of cocaine seized from January through September 2025

6,675 kilograms of methamphetamine seized over the same period

FBI Philadelphia has also significantly expanded its local enforcement efforts in 2205 with:

441 violent crime arrests — up 15% from 2024

82 kilograms of cocaine seized — up 158% from 2024

27+ kilograms of fentanyl seized

In December 2025, the DOJ, FBI, DHS, and federal, state, and local partners established a Homeland Security Task Force in Philadelphia to specifically target cartels and transnational criminal organizations fueling fentanyl overdoses and community violence.

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Pennsylvania Attorney General have further reinforced those efforts. In 2025, the DEA seized more than 47 million fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and nearly 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder— the equivalent of more than 369 million lethal doses.

While strides have been made, Senator McCormick will not stop until fentanyl is eradicated.

As the fight against fentanyl shows measurable results, new and more dangerous substances are entering Pennsylvania’s drug supply. Three emerging threats are of particular concern in Pennsylvania:

Medetomidine: Zero reports of medetomidine overdose deaths detected in Pennsylvania in 2023, but that number rose to 75 in 2024. It is now present in 87% of Philadelphia drug samples as of early 2025.

Xylazine: A veterinary tranquilizer, increasingly found mixed with fentanyl, causes severe tissue damage and resists naloxone, making overdose response significantly more difficult.

Nitazenes: These synthetic opioids, up to 40 times more potent than fentanyl, are frequently concealed in counterfeit pills, missed by routine toxicology screens, and likely undercounted statewide due to gaps in standard testing protocols.

Last October, Senator McCormick introduced the Nitazene Control Act to permanently schedule the entire class of nitazenes under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, closing the loopholes traffickers exploit before the death toll demands a response. In March, he introduced the Joint Task Force to Counter Illicit Synthetic Narcotics Act of 2025, which would improve federal coordination to combat the fentanyl crisis, go after trafficking organizations, address China’s central role in producing fentanyl precursors and laundering drug money, and save American lives.

Senator McCormick was a proud cosponsor of the HALT Fentanyl Act, signed into law by President Trump on July 16, 2025, which permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act and gives law enforcement more tools to combat the threats posed by these deadly drugs.

Senator McCormick is also a cosponsor of the Nitazene Sanctions Act and the Detection Equipment and Technology Evaluation to Counter the Threat of Nitazenes Act of 2025 (DETECT Nitazenes Act) to address the growing threat of nitazenes in American communities.

###",1,2026-04-05T05:34:57Z,2026-04-05T05:36:03Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-fetterman-release-joint-statement-on-antisemitism-investigation/,"SENATORS MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN RELEASE JOINT STATEMENT ON ANTISEMITISM INVESTIGATION",2026-04-01,2026,2026-04,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"ALLENTOWN, PA – Today, following Judge Gerald J. Pappert’s ruling that approves the administration’s effort to obtain information on Penn Jewish faculty as part of an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission subpoena, U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) released the following joint statement:

“No student or faculty member should face illegal discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or national origin. We have long spoken out against the despicable treatment Jewish students and faculty have faced since October 7, including on University of Pennsylvania’s campus. We fully support the EEOC investigations into Title VII discrimination.”

“Both our offices will continue to monitor how this case plays out in the courts. Both our priorities are ensuring privacy protections are upheld and perpetrators of illegal discrimination are brought to justice.”

###",1,2026-04-05T05:34:57Z,2026-04-05T05:36:03Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-hosts-nih-director-for-visit-to-university-of-pennsylvania/,Senator McCormick Hosts NIH Director for Visit to University of Pennsylvania,2026-03-31,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Tour Showcases Pennsylvania’s Role at the Forefront of Life Sciences Innovation

PHILADELPHIA, PA – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today hosted National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for a full-day visit to Penn Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, where they met with researchers, clinicians, and innovators advancing some of the nation’s most groundbreaking biomedical research. The visit underscored how federal research investment supports lifesaving medical breakthroughs, strengthens America’s global leadership in science, and drives economic growth across Pennsylvania.

“Pennsylvania is helping lead the future of life sciences, and it was an honor to welcome Director Bhattacharya to Philadelphia to see that work up close,” said Senator McCormick. “At Penn, researchers are translating cutting-edge science into real treatments that are saving lives and giving families hope. With world-class institutions, talented researchers, and emerging tools and technologies like artificial intelligence accelerating discovery, Pennsylvania is well positioned to continue leading the next generation of medical innovation.”

“As I said yesterday, Pennsylvania shows what’s possible when regional collaboration is focused on saving lives, and it’s a model for how NIH investment turns scientific discovery into real care for patients. I’ve been especially inspired by Baby KJ, whose rare genetic disorder was treated using personalized gene editing developed right here at Penn and CHOP. It’s a powerful reminder that when NIH backs bold science, breakthroughs once thought impossible can become reality. We also saw where CAR-T therapy was first used to treat blood cancers. Not long ago, that work struggled to secure funding, and today, it’s one of the most important advances in cancer treatment. That’s why we’re expanding opportunities for innovative, high-impact research through NIH’s Unified Funding Strategy; so promising but unproven ideas have a real chance to succeed, and NIH investment can continue to save lives and pave the way for what comes next,” said NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya.

“Like Penn’s tightly integrated campus, what sets Philadelphia’s eds and meds apart is our critical mass of expertise and pioneering research – all nearby, in sync, and of service to all Pennsylvanians,” said Penn President J. Larry Jameson. “We were honored to welcome Senator McCormick and Dr. Bhattacharya and showcase how our historic partnerships continue advancing our Commonwealth and country, while also discussing innovative ways to drive progress for the future.”

Part of a two-day visit with NIH Director Bhattacharya, Senator McCormick convened researchers, clinicians, university leaders, and innovators to highlight how NIH-supported research is driving medical progress and strengthening Pennsylvania’s life sciences ecosystem.

At the Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya observed how Penn Medicine integrates patient care with clinical research to accelerate “bench-to-bedside” breakthroughs. Close connections among Penn Medicine’s hospitals and research centers — as well as with Penn’s other schools like Penn Nursing, Engineering, Penn Dental, Veterinary Medicine, and Arts and Sciences — create a powerful research ecosystem where NIH-funded investigators develop new therapies and models of care.

Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya also toured a CAR-T cell therapy laboratory, where they met with Dr. Carl June and discussed the groundbreaking workin this personalized cell therapy – in which patients’ own immune cells are engineered to fight their cancers – pioneered at Penn. The discussion highlighted how early federal research investment helped establish the scientific foundation for cell and gene therapies, which are now transforming patient care and offering new hope to those with previously untreatable diseases. Throughout the tour, Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya also heard from patients and families about the real-world impact of these medical breakthroughs.

The day concluded with a roundtable discussion with regional partners focused on the future of biomedical innovation, including how federal research partnerships can continue to accelerate discovery, support biotechnology commercialization, and expand access to life-saving treatments.

The University of Pennsylvania is consistently among the top recipients of NIH funding nationwide, receiving $723 million in NIH support in FY2025, ranking fifth nationally. Penn’s NIH-funded research spans critical areas including cancer, neuroscience, cardiovascular disease, aging, population health, and health services research, along with leading work in genomics, gene and cell therapy, and bioengineering.

Pennsylvania ranks as the fourth largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation, receiving $2.27 billion in federal research funding in FY2025. Statewide, NIH investment supports more than 21,000 research jobs and generates $5.31 billion in annual economic activity.

NIH-driven innovation has also helped launch thousands of businesses and nearly 100,000 biopharmaceutical jobs across the Commonwealth. For every dollar invested in NIH research, $2.56 flows back into the economy, delivering a strong return for American taxpayers.

###",1,2026-04-07T05:38:05Z,2026-04-07T05:39:14Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-welcomes-nih-director-to-pittsburgh-for-full-day-tour-of-life-sciences-and-research-institutions/,Senator McCormick Welcomes NIH Director to Pittsburgh for Full Day Tour of Life Sciences and Research Institutions,2026-03-30,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Visit Highlights Pennsylvania’s Role as a Leader in Life Sciences

PITTSBURGH, PA – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today hosted National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for a full-day visit to Pittsburgh, where they toured some of the nation’s leading life sciences and research institutions. The visit highlighted how federal research investment translates into jobs, medical breakthroughs, and economic growth and why Pennsylvania continues to be a productive partner in biomedical innovation.

“Pennsylvania is one of the great life sciences hubs in the world, and I was proud to welcome Director Bhattacharya to Pittsburgh to see it firsthand,” said Senator McCormick. “What’s happening here is extraordinary — treatment centers where discoveries are being made, researchers dedicated to finding answers, and families whose lives have been changed. That is accountability you can see. With advances in artificial intelligence and new technologies accelerating research, Pennsylvania is well positioned to lead the next generation of medical innovation.”

“I am truly honored to spend the day in Pittsburgh, a city that exemplifies what reinvention can look like at its best. Once defined by its steel industry, Pittsburgh has transformed itself into a thriving center for biotechnology and innovation which is a remarkable evolution. What stands out most is the extraordinary collaboration among the University of Pittsburgh, UPMC, and Carnegie Mellon University. Together, they represent a powerful trifecta of research and innovation, seamlessly bridging cutting-edge technology with biomedical discovery in ways that set a standard for institutions across the country. Pennsylvania’s emergence as a leader in this space underscores the profound impact of sustained NIH investment in research institutions beyond the coasts. The breakthroughs happening here are not only advancing science, but improving human health in meaningful and far-reaching ways, said NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya.

Throughout the visit, Senator McCormick convened researchers, clinicians, philanthropists, investors, business leaders, and university executives from across the Pittsburgh region to highlight the impact of NIH-supported research and the strength of Pennsylvania’s life sciences ecosystem.

At the UPMC Vision Institute, Senator McCormick and Dr. Bhattacharya observed research moving rapidly from the laboratory into clinical practice, with advances in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disease offering new hope to patients at risk of losing their sight. At the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, they witnessed the direct impact of federally supported care on patients recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and limb loss.

They also visited the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center —one of only 57 Comprehensive Cancer Centers across the country and the only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania — they met researchers advancing new cancer treatments and prevention, bringing that work to patients in rural communities across the region. The day culminated with Senator McCormick and Director Bhattacharya leading a Life Sciences Industry Symposium, where they met with business leaders, university executives, hospital administrators, philanthropists, and investors from across the Pittsburgh region and discussed how NIH funding is driving commercialization and growth in the biotechnology sector.

Pennsylvania ranks as the fourth largest recipient of NIH funding in the nation, receiving $2.27 billion in federal research funding in FY 2025. The University of Pittsburgh and UPMC alone received $670 million, ranking ninth nationally. Statewide, NIH investment supports more than 21,000 research jobs and generates $5.31 billion in annual economic activity.

NIH-driven commercialization has also helped launch thousands of businesses and nearly 100,000 biopharmaceutical jobs across the Commonwealth. For every dollar of NIH funding, $2.56 flows back into the economy — a strong and consistent return for American taxpayers.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-fetterman-announce-600-million-in-federal-funding-to-replace-delaware-river-bridge-and-improve-pa-turnpike/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND FETTERMAN ANNOUNCE $600 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO REPLACE DELAWARE RIVER BRIDGE AND IMPROVE PA TURNPIKE,2026-03-28,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation is awarding $600 million to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) through the FY 2025 Bridge Investment Program. The funding will advance the PA Turnpike/I-95 Interchange Program by replacing the existing 1956 Delaware River Bridge, a critical crossing connecting Bucks County, Pennsylvania to Burlington County, New Jersey.

“This $600 million investment is one of the most consequential infrastructure commitments in Pennsylvania’s history, and we are proud to have fought to secure this funding by writing directly to Transportation Secretary Duffy to make the case for why the Delaware River Bridge deserves federal investment,” said Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman. “The Delaware River Bridge is not just a Pennsylvania asset; it is a backbone of our national freight and passenger transportation network. This funding will make it safer and more resilient for the commuters, families, and businesses that depend on it every single day.”

The Delaware River Bridge currently carries more than 67,000 vehicles daily, with truck traffic accounting for approximately 16 percent of total volume. Given this heavy demand, the bridge’s existing four-lane configuration is no longer sufficient to meet the capacity needs of the I-95 corridor, one of the busiest and most economically vital highway corridors in the United States. The project will widen the bridge to align with surrounding approach roadways and accommodate projected long-term traffic growth, while also addressing critical infrastructure risk, enhancing travel reliability, improving safety, and bolstering flood resilience.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-kim-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-global-nuclear-exports/,"Senators McCormick, Kim Introduce Bill to Strengthen U.S. Global Nuclear Exports",2026-03-27,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, yesterdayintroduced legislation to strengthen America’s competitiveness in the global nuclear energy market as part of the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). As global demand for reliable, clean energy grows, this bipartisan bill will strengthen the United States’ ability to compete for and win nuclear energy projects around the world. As part of the reauthorization process, the American Competitiveness for Exports in Nuclear Energy, or ACE Nuclear Energy Act of 2026, would enhance the Export-Import Bank of the United States’ (EXIM) ability to support U.S. nuclear energy exports.

“The global demand for reliable nuclear energy is growing, and American nuclear technology is ready to meet the challenge. China and Russia are aggressively expanding their nuclear footprint in global markets, and the United States must respond by strengthening our ability to compete for commercial nuclear projects abroad,” said Senator McCormick. “The ACE Nuclear Energy Act of 2026 will drive America’s energy competitiveness and help make the United States the partner of choice. When American companies win these projects, they support a strong domestic supply chain—from Pennsylvania to communities across the country—creating jobs, strengthening our industrial base, and reinforcing America’s leadership in technology.”

“Electricity demand is surging worldwide, and China continues bankrolling its own nuclear exports while we leave ourselves without the tools to compete. The ACE Nuclear Energy Act changes that, giving American exporters the financing and talent they need to win. This is how we lead the global energy race, create good American jobs, and grow our economy,” said Senator Kim.

The initiative builds on momentum from the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which included the International Nuclear Energy Act, directing federal agencies to develop and implement a coordinated strategy.

As part of EXIM’s reauthorization, the American Competitiveness for Exports in Nuclear Energy (ACE Nuclear Energy) provisions would address key barriers facing U.S. nuclear companies:

Unlocking Financing for Large-Scale Projects: Nuclear energy projects often require multi-billion-dollar investments. This legislation would create a targeted exemption from EXIM’s statutory default rate cap, ensuring a single project does not shut down the agency’s ability to approve new deals. This reform aligns EXIM with international counterparts, enabling support for projects in higher-risk, high-growth markets where private lenders often cannot operate.

Strengthening Workforce Competitiveness: The bill would expand EXIM’s ability to offer market-competitive pay for specialized staff,’ helping the agency attract and retain the expertise needed to compete globally—similar to peer institutions like the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.

The legislation positions the United States as a premier partner for countries seeking dependable, secure, and clean energy solutions while advancing American economic and strategic interests.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-senator-mccormick-delivers-late-night-floor-speech-last-night-to-fund-all-of-the-department-of-homeland-security/,Watch: Senator McCormick Delivers Late-Night Floor Speech Last Night to Fund ALL of the Department of Homeland Security,2026-03-27,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"“I rise today to implore my Democratic colleagues one more time: end this ridiculous shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security. Every day the stakes get higher, and every day the real-world consequences get more severe.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) spoke on the Senate floor last night to call out Senate Democrats for refusing to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security — arguing that the decision undermines a critical agency responsible for protecting the country at a time of heightened domestic threats and ongoing operations in Iran.

Click here to watch the video.

Senator McCormick’s remarks below (as prepared):

“Mr. President, I rise today to implore my Democratic colleagues one more time: end this ridiculous shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security. Every day the stakes get higher, and every day the real-world consequences get more severe. Shutting down DHS to make a point on immigration is reckless, and it is devoid of basic, fundamental common sense. It weakens the agencies that protect the homeland. It punishes the men and women across TSA, CISA, FEMA, the Coast Guard, and the rest of DHS who stand watch every day over this country. And it burdens the Americans who depend on those public servants.

“So what has this shutdown accomplished? What has it brought us?

“First, it endangers America. It endangers Americans.

“Since combat operations have begun in Iran, the homeland has seen five major attacks: an ISIS-inspired bombing outside Gracie Mansion in New York City; a terrorist shooting in a classroom at Old Dominion; a vehicle attack at Temple Israel in Michigan; a terrorist shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas; and a pro-Iran cyberattack on Stryker, one of America’s great medical products companies, whose systems support patient care and hospitals across the country.

“These threats come on top of the violence already made possible by the Biden Administration’s disastrous, catastrophic border policies. Just last Thursday, we saw it on the television: an illegal immigrant shot and killed an 18-year-old Loyola Chicago student, Sheridan Gorman. The killer had crossed the border in 2023, was caught and released, and then — after a shoplifting arrest — was released once again. And now, sadly, tragically, a young woman is dead at his hands.

“That is why we must keep DHS fully operational, including ICE. We do not know what threats exist among the ten million illegal immigrants who entered our country during the Biden Administration. But we do know that those risks are growing — and they are made much worse because of the carelessness of Democrats in shutting down and refusing to fund DHS.

“And yet, in our moment of real national need, Democrats are choosing performance theater over the safety of the American people. It is irresponsible. It is callous. It is disgraceful. And it must stop. We are 40 days into this — it must stop.

“Second, it hurts the people who protect us.

“Shutting down DHS hurts the very people who step forward to protect us. The average TSA agent earns about $50,000 a year. Many live paycheck to paycheck — and those are the paychecks my Democratic colleagues chose to withhold to stage this stunt.

“Now, fortunately, President Trump earlier today intervened and directed the new Secretary of Homeland Security to find a way to pay these folks. But tragically, much of the damage has already been done. Too many Pennsylvanians are already paying the price. TSA officers in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh airports have had to rely on food banks to get by. The men and women standing between the traveling public and danger should not have to depend on charity because Congress cannot do its job.

“The consequences of this shutdown are mounting. Last Sunday, one in four TSA agents in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh airports called out — 25% didn’t come to work, because Democrats have forced them to work without pay. They cannot protect their families and report to work without being paid. Not many Americans can. And since the shutdown began, at least 450 TSA agents have quit — 450 trained professionals, gone. Replacing them will cost money, it will take time, and until then the risk facing the American people has gone up.

“Third, it imposes real costs and real vulnerabilities on the American people.

“We have all seen the images: airport security lines snaking out of the terminal into the parking garages. Families heading out on spring break, workers traveling across the country, people hitting the road for work — all victims of a politically manufactured crisis.

“And I wish I could say it was just the airports. But the consequences go far beyond. The World Cup security preparations in cities around the world, including Philadelphia, have already fallen behind. Security grants for houses of worship are tied up. Local communities are without critical DHS threat information sharing. Our cybersecurity readiness is diminished. And in Pennsylvania, firefighters and first responders have lost access to critical DHS training.

“The bottom line is this: this shutdown is petty political theater that is putting American lives at risk. It is unacceptable, and it has to stop.

“I reject the false choice between funding and reforms. We can address the legitimate concerns the American people have had about immigration enforcement while fully funding DHS. We can secure the homeland and insist on professionalism and competence. That is why I support the common-sense reforms that Republicans in Congress and the Administration have put forward: body cameras for ICE, funding for de-escalation training, increased transparency requirements, and regular inspections of detention facilities. These are common-sense proposals offered in good faith — and yet Democrats have turned away. Because they do not want a resolution. They want to use this as a political issue heading into the midterms. And the American people are suffering.

“I am confident that my former colleague Markwayne Mullin, whom we confirmed on Monday, will bring the leadership this moment demands. And whatever our differences in this chamber over policy, shutting down the government is never the right answer. As President Obama’s DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson said last week, we need to get out of the business of coupling policy disagreements with funding the government.

“Shutting down the Department of Homeland Security for the third time this Congress, amid major combat operations in the Middle East, is not merely wrong — it is reckless.

“I am proud that my friend and Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman agrees that shutting down the government is wrong. He and I can always be depended on to walk together for a better Pennsylvania. I urge others in the Democratic Party to do the same: fund DHS, protect America, pay the men and women who are defending us, and relieve the American people of these ridiculous, politically-imposed, unnecessary burdens.

“I yield the floor.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mccormick-fetterman-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-designate-endless-mountains-national-heritage-area/,"MCCORMICK, FETTERMAN LEAD BIPARTISAN EFFORT TO DESIGNATE ENDLESS MOUNTAINS NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA",2026-03-26,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) today introduced the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area Act to designate Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains region as a National Heritage Area (NHA), a long-sought recognition that would preserve the region’s rich history and natural beauty while boosting economic growth through tourism. The legislation is the Senate companion to a House bill led by Congressman Dan Meuser (R-PA-09).

“Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains are a cornerstone of our Commonwealth’s history and natural beauty, with a legacy that stretches back to the earliest days of our nation,” said Senator McCormick. “Especially as we approach our nation’s 250th birthday, this designation is a major win for Northeast Pennsylvania—protecting our historic landscapes while growing a tourism economy that supports thousands of hardworking families. I’m proud to work alongside my Pennsylvania colleagues to bring national recognition to this truly world-class destination.”

“Our public lands are some of the very best parts of what our great country has to offer,”said Senator Fetterman. “We have a responsibility to safeguard the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area. I’m proud to help ensure it will be protected and enjoyed for generations to come while supporting economic development throughout the region.”

“The Endless Mountains region is one of Northeast Pennsylvania’s most scenic landscapes, full of history, natural beauty, and local culture. Whether you’re enjoying its fall foliage or its vast forests during summer, it provides some of the most stunning scenery in our Commonwealth. Establishing the Endless Mountains National Heritage Area will help protect that legacy while increasing tourism, encouraging local economic activity, and strengthening relationships among communities, small businesses, and conservation groups across the four counties. I am happy to lead this effort in the House, alongside Senators McCormick and Fetterman in the Senate, to ensure the history and culture of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming counties are recognized and supported for generations of Pennsylvanians to come,” said Congressman Meuser.

BACKGROUND

This bipartisan bill would designate Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna, and Wyoming counties as a National Heritage Area and name Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc. (EMHR) as the local coordinating entity.

As a National Heritage Area, the region would remain a lived-in landscape, with projects led by local communities through public-private partnerships—not federal mandates.

The legislation does not alter existing land-use regulations and does not grant the National Park Service any zoning authority or eminent domain power.

Outdoor and heritage tourism in the region already supports nearly 2,000 jobs and generates more than $166 million in annual economic activity. NHA designation would increase national visibility, attract more visitors, unlock additional federal resources, and could generate up to $350 million in annual economic activity.

The designation would help protect and elevate the legacy of the Munsee-Lenape, Susquehannock, and Iroquois peoples, along with the region’s agricultural and industrial history.

The effort has garnered strong local and statewide support, including formal resolutions from all four counties and backing from a bipartisan group of Pennsylvania state legislators.

“We’re grateful for the support we’ve received from our state and federal legislators—particularly Senator Dave McCormick, Senator John Fetterman, and Congressman Dan Meuser—as we work to achieve a National Heritage Area designation for the Endless Mountains,” said Cain Chamberlin, Executive Director of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region. “This effort reflects years of collaboration, research, and community input, and highlights the region’s unique history, natural beauty, and cultural significance.”

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-04-05T05:34:57Z,2026-04-05T05:36:03Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/watch-senator-mccormick-delivers-floor-speech-in-support-of-road-to-housing-act/,Watch: Senator McCormick Delivers Floor Speech in Support of ROAD to Housing Act,2026-03-05,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"“The ROAD to Housing Act represents the most consequential federal action on housing in a generation. Passing through the Banking Committee with a unanimous, 24-to-0 vote, it’s also proof that the Senate can address important issues in a bipartisan way.”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor in support of the ROAD to Housing Act.

Click here to watch the video.

Senator McCormick’s remarks below (as prepared):

“Mr. President, I rise today in support of the ROAD to Housing Act.

“I grew up in Northeast Pennsylvania, in a town called Bloomsburg, believing in a simple deal: work hard, play by the rules and you can build a life in your own home.

“But that promise – the American Dream – has become increasingly out of reach for families across our great Commonwealth. There are too few homes to buy and too many aging homes that families can’t afford to maintain.

“The numbers tell a clear and disturbing story: Pennsylvania is short 100,000 homes today – that’s the same number as seats in Penn State’s Beaver Stadium. Median home prices have hit an all-time high of $325,000. Rent has surged. And more than half our housing stock is over 50 years old, which means greater repair costs for homeowners already struggling with tight budgets.

“The absence of good, new, affordable housing has locked out young families. When I was a teenager, the median age of a first-time homebuyer was 29. Today it is 40.

“That is an entire decade of homeownership and wealth-building that has been lost by a generation.

“American families did not create this problem. Washington did. Major federal housing programs have been funded for decades without serious reform. Some

haven’t been updated since the 1960’s.

“The Biden administration had four years to address this crisis. Instead, more bureaucracy, more mandates, and reckless spending drove this problem off a cliff. From the rowhouses of Philadelphia to the small towns of the Monongahela Valley, home prices across our Commonwealth have risen more than 75 percent since 2020. Nationally, the average monthly mortgage payment is over $1000 higher than when President Biden took office.

“Last year, I visited Bedford Dwellings in Pittsburgh’s historic Hill District with HUD Secretary Turner. We spoke with great Pennsylvanians who feel the American Dream is increasingly out of reach. I hear this feedback everywhere I go across the Commonwealth.

“This is a big problem. It’s an unacceptable problem. And it’s time for a new direction.

“President Trump’s leadership is lowering housing costs for American families. He cut red tape in permitting and construction and directed key agencies to keep Wall Street out of the starter home market. And he delivered the most significant federal investment in affordable housing in decades via the Working Families Tax Cut Act.

“Today, the Senate has an opportunity to build on this progress — in a serious, bipartisan way — by passing the ROAD to Housing Act.

“The bill advances three goals.

“First: build more. The Act cuts the red tape, lowers costs, and speeds up zoning and permitting.

“Second: fix what we have. Grants and forgivable loans are provided to low-income homeowners for repairs, helping preserve home values and helping stabilize neighborhoods.

“Third: empower communities, not bureaucrats. Local leaders are empowered to make decisions that fit their towns. The federal government should be a partner not a gatekeeper.

“Guided by these principles, the ROAD to Housing Act represents the most consequential federal action on housing in a generation. Passing through the Banking Committee with a unanimous, 24-to-0 vote, it’s also proof that the Senate can address important issues in a bipartisan way.

“I‘m particularly proud of the amendments my friend and colleague, Senator Fetterman, and I championed together that protect Pennsylvania workers, veterans, and homeowners.

“For example, I was the lead or co-lead on six provisions that will help ensure Pennsylvanians – including our 800,000 veterans – can afford good homes without risk of falling through the cracks.

“The bill and my provisions also empower Pennsylvania’s community lenders. There is a scene in “It’s a Wonderful Life” where George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart – who, by the way, was a native of my dad’s hometown of Indiana, Pennsylvania – fights to save the Bailey Building and Loan.

“This was the community lender in the fictional town of Bedford Falls that knew every borrower by name and made the mortgages that helped ordinary people own homes.

“That model once helped build “a wonderful life” for generations of Americans. But we have regulated it so heavily that community lenders who want to serve their neighbors can’t make the math work.

“Homeownership for most young families shouldn’t exist only in the movies. It should exist in Bloomsburg and Bradford and Braddock and every Pennsylvania community where a local lender knows the borrower and wants to say yes. This bill takes important steps in that direction.

“And one more thing: the ROAD to Housing Act builds on President Trump’s efforts and takes on Wall Street landlords competing directly with first-time buyers for single-family homes. The housing market should work for Main Street – not Wall Street.

“For ALL these many reasons, I am proud to stand in support the ROAD to Housing Act. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote yes — and make the American Dream of homeownership possible again for the next generation of Pennsylvanians.

“I yield the floor.”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-welch-introduce-bill-to-modernize-americas-electric-grid-and-cut-red-tape/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND WELCH INTRODUCE BILL TO MODERNIZE AMERICA’S ELECTRIC GRID AND CUT RED TAPE,2026-03-02,2026,2026-03,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA), Chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy, and Peter Welch (D-VT), Chair of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development Energy, and Credit, today introduced the Reconductoring Existing Wires for Infrastructure Reliability and Expansion (REWIRE) Act of 2026, new bipartisan legislation to modernize the nation’s electric grid and meet America’s growing energy demand. This bill cuts permitting delays, incentivizes advanced transmission upgrades, strengthens state grid planning, and accelerates the deployment of innovative grid technologies to lower costs and improve grid reliability for American families and businesses.

“Electricity demand in Pennsylvania and across America is rising rapidly and that requires innovative solutions to strengthen our electric grid and cut through the bureaucracy that is holding us back,” said Senator McCormick. “The bipartisan REWIRE Act is exactly the kind of commonsense fix we need. It leverages existing infrastructure we already have, brings down costs, and stops years of unnecessary permitting delays from standing in the way of real progress.”

“We’re up against the clock when it comes to meeting America’s growing energy needs. Increasing the capacity of the grid by accelerating the permitting process and incentivizing practices like reconductoring will not only allow us to connect new and affordable clean energy to the grid–it’ll also save consumers money,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to partner with Senator McCormick on this bipartisan effort to upgrade America’s grid and meet the energy demand of the future.”

After two decades of stagnation, American electricity demand is projected to rise by as much as 5.7% by 2030 — the fastest increase since the 1960s. Meeting this demand will require nearly 5,000 miles of new high-capacity transmission lines each year, according to the Department of Energy. Yet in 2024, only 322 miles of new high-voltage transmission were completed.

The REWIRE Act provides a commonsense path forward: rather than building new infrastructure from scratch, it upgrades existing transmission lines with advanced conductors that can double capacity (a process known as “reconductoring”). By reducing congestion and bypassing lengthy permitting requirements, reconductoring could reduce grid costs by $85 billion by 2035 and $180 billion by 2050.

Specifically, the REWIRE Act of 2026 will:

Streamline environmental reviews by creating a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for projects that increase grid capacity within existing rights-of-way, including reconductoring with advanced conductors, deploying grid-enhancing technologies (GETs), and deploying energy storage.

Incentivize modern transmission upgrades by directing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to improve the return on equity for reconductoring projects, encouraging wider adoption of advanced transmission conductors.

Expand funding flexibility by allowing State Energy Offices to use Department of Energy (DOE) State Energy Program funds to conduct feasibility studies for reconductoring and GETs projects.

Build a regional knowledge network by establishing regional collaboratives between DOE, National Laboratories, and universities to evaluate grid performance and identify high-impact opportunities for advanced conductor and GET deployment.

Share best practices nationally by authorizing DOE to assist transmission developers and create a national clearinghouse of advanced transmission technology applications, case studies, and best practices.

Read the full bill text here.

“We welcome the bipartisan leadership of Senators McCormick and Welch to address the urgent need for reliable and affordable power for Pennsylvanians and communities across the country through this critical legislation,” said Joe Mastrangelo, Chief Executive Officer of Eos Energy. “As energy demand continues to rise, Eos stands ready to deliver American‑made energy storage solutions that improve efficiency, accelerate speed‑to‑power, and enhance affordability for ratepayers—goals the REWIRE Act is designed to advance.”

“We are grateful to Senator McCormick for his bipartisan leadership on the REWIRE Act. As electricity demand continues to rise, it is critical that we strengthen and modernize the nation’s linear infrastructure. Targeted, commonsense permitting reforms that allow upgrades within existing rights-of-way can help unlock additional grid capacity more efficiently and cost-effectively. This proposal addresses one component of a broader permitting challenge, and while there is more work to do, we support all pragmatic efforts that streamline unnecessarily burdensome processes and accelerate the delivery of reliable energy to the markets where it is needed most.” – Toby Z. Rice, President and CEO, EQT

“Thank you to Senator McCormick for introducing the REWIRE Act. This is an important step forward on comprehensive permitting reform, a long-standing priority of our members,”said Stefani Pashman, CEO of the Allegheny Conference. “This region has been a top energy producer for our nation for generations. REWIRE would ensure the power we produce can get to where it’s needed most without unnecessary delays. As we position for future growth, these reforms will allow us to capitalize on an ‘all of the above’ energy approach when it comes to leveraging the region’s assets, expertise, and emerging opportunities for the 10-county SWPA region.”

“America needs a smarter, stronger grid to promote American energy security, AI leadership, and manufacturing competitiveness. The REWIRE Act, introduced by Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Peter Welch (D-VT), positions the U.S. to optimize our existing grid through American innovation – delivering more power with greater efficiency and affordability to American homes and businesses. We commend these bipartisan efforts to streamline the permitting for and industry adoption of innovative grid technologies that let American energy move,” said ClearPath Action CEO Jeremy Harrell.

“PPL is building the utilities of the future by deploying advanced technologies across our grid. In 2022, PPL Electric Utilities became the first U.S. electric utility to fully integrate dynamic line ratings—a grid‑enhancing technology—into real‑time operations with PJM. While not a substitute for needed new transmission, GETs can unlock additional capacity from existing infrastructure, improve efficiency, and reduce congestion costs for customers. We applaud Senator McCormick’s leadership in introducing the REWIRE Act and welcome continued collaboration with our federal partners to help scale proven solutions nationwide for the benefit of our customers.”– Vincent Sorgi, president and chief executive officer of PPL Corporation

“ACC Action, on behalf of our thousands of grassroots members, is happy to endorse Senator McCormick’s REWIRE Act. This bill will allow us to get more electricity out of existing infrastructure without wasting years on redundant environmental approvals. The federal government should not be spending time and money on thousands of pages of reports for land that has already been developed. By doubling down on existing transmission infrastructure, we can save pristine lands, protect farmland, and prevent duplicative construction across the country.” – American Conservation Coalition Action (ACC Action)

“The electric industry is facing unprecedented challenges. In order to keep up with increasing demand while still maintaining affordable and reliable service, utilities need to have access to every tool in the toolbox. This legislation would help utilities increase capacity along existing transmission corridors and do so quickly while reducing costs. I applaud Sen. McCormick and Sen. Welch for working in a bipartisan manner to address these critical infrastructure issues and I urge the Senate to take up this legislation.”– Steve Brame, President & CEO, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association and Allegheny Electric Cooperative

“Advanced transmission technologies, including high-performance conductors and grid-enhancing technologies, are a common-sense way to increase the overall capacity and efficiency of our existing grid infrastructure, boost reliability, and lower energy prices. We applaud Sens. Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Peter Welch (D-VT) for the introduction of the REWIRE Act, which would aid in the deployment of these next-generation grid technologies,” said Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action (BPC Action).

“Rising electricity demand related to reindustrialization, electrification, and U.S. leadership in AI is one of the most pressing issues facing policymakers today,” said Securing America’s Future Energy CEO Avery Ash. “The REWIRE Act charts a decisive path to expand the capacity of our electric grid, fortifying America’s national security and economic strength. It recognizes that scaling advanced transmission technologies and deploying energy storage are essential tools to unlock that capacity, delivering results now as we build the grid of the future.”

“At a time when families and businesses are facing rising electricity costs, the REWIRE Act offers a market-driven solution to expand grid capacity at lower cost. By enabling advanced conductors and grid-enhancing technologies within existing rights-of-way, this legislation can reduce congestion, improve efficiency, and help keep rates stable. Smart infrastructure upgrades are a win for reliability and a win for ratepayers.” – John Szoka, CEO of the Conservative Energy Network

“Grid reliability and affordability depend on faster, common-sense upgrades. FAI Action applauds Senators Welch and McCormick for introducing the REWIRE Act and supports this effort to accelerate grid development in existing corridors.” – Foundation for American Innovation

“Modernizing the electric grid is essential to keeping America competitive. The REWIRE Act takes bipartisan steps to cut red tape and accelerate capacity additions on existing infrastructure, including reconductoring, grid-enhancing technologies, and storage,”said NEMA Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Spencer Pederson. “This bill helps move more energy faster along existing corridors without sacrificing responsible oversight, and it’s a commonsense, near-term way to add capacity and strengthen reliability.”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-to-bring-pennsylvania-united-steelworkers-vice-president-jason-zugai-as-guest-to-2026-state-of-the-union/,SENATOR MCCORMICK TO BRING PENNSYLVANIA UNITED STEELWORKERS VICE PRESIDENT JASON ZUGAI AS GUEST TO 2026 STATE OF THE UNION,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, February 24, 2026 – U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania) today announced that he will bring Jason Zugai, former President and current Vice President of the United Steelworkers (Local 2227), as his guest to the 2026 State of the Union. This honor comes just months after the historic U.S. Steel-Nippon partnership was finalized in June 2025, a deal that strengthens Pennsylvania’s steel industry and safeguards thousands of American jobs.

“Jason Zugai is a third-generation steelworker who embodies the heart of the Mon Valley and the proud tradition of American steel,” said Senator McCormick. “The U.S. Steel-Nippon Agreement is a landmark achievement, ensuring that this iconic American company remains under U.S. leadership while protecting and creating thousands of Pennsylvania jobs. I’m honored to bring Jason as my guest to the State of the Union to highlight the incredible work of steel workers and showcase how President Trump’s administration has championed strengthening American manufacturing.”

Senator McCormick first met Jason Zugai during his campaign for U.S. Senate in 2024, where they discussed the critical importance of the U.S. Steel-Nippon deal for Pennsylvania workers. McCormick promised that once elected, his first meeting as U.S. Senator would be with Jason. Senator McCormick kept that promise, engaging closely with Jason and steel leaders to advocate for the $14 billion investment that now secures the future of U.S. Steel.

The U.S. Steel-Nippon agreement is a win for our economy, national security, and the hardworking people of Pennsylvania. Senator McCormick is proud to stand alongside President Trump in fulfilling their shared commitment to rebuild American manufacturing and deliver for U.S. workers.

Senator McCormick has consistently emphasized that one of his top priorities is preserving and expanding jobs in the Mon Valley while ensuring that U.S. Steel remains under American control. Bringing Jason Zugai to the State of the Union offers an opportunity to spotlight these efforts and celebrate the people driving Pennsylvania’s steel revival.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-rosen-introduce-legislation-to-expand-internet-access-for-iranian-civilians-and-combat-irans-human-rights-abuses/,SENATORS MCCORMICK AND ROSEN INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO EXPAND INTERNET ACCESS FOR IRANIAN CIVILIANS AND COMBAT IRAN’S HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, February 24, 2026 – Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) today introduced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026,bipartisan legislationdesigned to increase pressure against the Islamic Republic of Iran after the regime locked down the internet and killed tens of thousands of its own citizens during mass protests throughout the country.

The legislation takes a coordinated approach to confronting the regime’s repression, targeting four key areas: expand internet access for Iranian civilians amid regime blackouts and repression, identify and enforce sanctions on human rights abusers and their enablers, support U.S. broadcasting and human rights programming, and strengthen cybersecurity tools for Iranian journalists, human rights activists, and civil society.

“The Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 builds on America’s efforts to stand with the Iranian people against a regime that is economically, militarily, and morally bankrupt,” said Senator McCormick. “This bipartisan legislation will expand internet access amid regime blackouts and repression, enforce sanctions on human rights violators including their enablers, and promote human rights documentation and accountability.”

“The people of Iran have been forced to live under a repressive regime that has used censorship and internet blackouts to weaken efforts by its people to fight back,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to support the brave Iranian people through expanding internet access, transparent broadcasting, and human rights programs. Iran’s future must be shaped by its people, who deserve to have their rights protected and free access to information.”

Specifically, theIran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 will:

Designate the Secretary of State as lead official for advancing internet access and digital freedom in Iran, coordinating all related U.S. government initiatives and updating reporting requirements under the Comprehensive Iran Internet Freedom Strategy.

Evaluate civilian use of tools such as VPNs and direct-to-cell satellite technology; ensure sanctions do not block Iranian civilians’ access to open internet technologies; and develop strategies to counter regime-imposed internet blackouts.

Update existing congressional reports on expanding internet access in Iran, covering satellite-based communications, drone-related risks, and analysis of telecommunications providers operating in Iran.

Increases funding for the Iran Internet Freedom Grant Program to at least $20 million annually from fiscal years 2027 to 2030.

Establish a State Department-led interagency working group to develop rapidly deployable technologies capable of bypassing internet shutdowns and network disruptions imposed by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Create a process for senior congressional leaders to identify and potentially sanction foreign individuals suspected of supporting Iran’s human rights abuses, censorship, or repression, including suppliers of surveillance or internet shutdown technology.

Direct the Secretary of State to develop a strategy expanding U.S. broadcasting and human rights programming for Iran, including support for independent media, civil society, and uncensored news access.

Require the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on grant oversight, program effectiveness, and recommendations to improve spending transparency and accountability under the Near East Regional Democracy account for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.

Establish programs to strengthen cybersecurity training and digital safety tools for Iranian journalists, activists, and civil society, including multilingual materials warning civilians about regime-controlled apps and phishing threats, with quarterly congressional reporting and independent evaluation.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-celebrates-new-job-growth-at-dura-bond/,Senator McCormick Celebrates New Job Growth at Dura-Bond,2026-02-14,2026,2026-02,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Multi-Year Contract Delivers 250 New Union Jobs and Economic Boost to Region

STEELTON, PA– On Friday, February 13, U.S. Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) visited Dura-Bond Pipe’s Steelton facility to join company leadership, federal and state elected officials, and workers in announcing a new multi-year contract between Dura-Bond with TC Energy that will generate $300 million in new revenue and create more than 250 new jobs in Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1960, Dura-Bond is an American-owned and operated steel pipe manufacturer proudly serving the Marcellus Shale region. The company has a long history of supplying domestically produced, large-diameter line pipe for natural gas and critical infrastructure projects across the country. To meet increased demand under the new contract, Dura-Bond will add an additional shift at its Steelton facility, expanding its workforce and strengthening the region’s manufacturing base.

“From day one, my team and I have been proud to stand with Dura-Bond as they’ve grown stronger and created opportunity for Pennsylvania workers,” said Senator Dave McCormick. “This $300 million contract with TC Energy will create 250 new union jobs and strengthen the Marcellus Shale region’s role in powering American manufacturing. What we are seeing here in Steelton is the intersection of President Trump’s strategy of energy dominance, his commitment to American steel, and the return of advanced manufacturing right here in Pennsylvania.”

“We are deeply grateful for the support of Senator McCormick and the many others who have helped us along the way. As he highlighted this afternoon, this truly was a team effort, made successful through the commitment of elected officials and staff from both sides of the aisle at the federal, state, and local levels,” said Dura-Bond President Jason Norris. “My family and I are personally touched by the interest shown and the support extended on behalf of our employees. We sincerely appreciate everyone who worked together to make this possible.”

John Draeger, Vice President, U.S. Projects, at TC Energy said, “Our more than 40-year partnership with Dura-Bond represents the strength of American manufacturing and the critical role Pennsylvania plays in powering the country. TC Energy’s latest $300 million pipe-supply agreement is not just an investment in infrastructure – it’s an investment in American workers, including more than 250 new United Steelworkers jobs that will help meet the nation’s growing energy needs. Reliable, affordable energy is essential to America’s competitiveness, and we’re grateful for Senator McCormick’s leadership and commitment to the communities that form the heart of America’s energy future.”

Pennsylvania is home to the only American-owned manufacturer of large-diameter line pipe used for oil and natural gas transmission. This announcement underscores Pennsylvania’s unique leadership in advanced manufacturing and energy infrastructure, and reflects the success of President Trump’s strategy of energy dominance and renewed commitment to strengthening domestic steel production. The expansion at Dura-Bond’s Steelton facility marks a significant step forward for South Central Pennsylvania’s economy and reinforces the Commonwealth’s role as a national leader in manufacturing and energy innovation.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-mccormick-secures-more-than-270-million-in-federal-funds-for-pennsylvania/,Senator McCormick Secures More Than $270 Million in Federal Funds for Pennsylvania,2026-02-05,2026,2026-02,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Funding to Support Public Safety, Infrastructure, Education, Healthcare, and Community Restoration

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 5, 2026 – Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) today announced he has secured more than $270 million in federal funding for projects across Pennsylvania, supporting critical needs and advancing key priorities throughout the Commonwealth. These federal funds will support projects across public safety, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic development, and environmental restoration, giving Pennsylvanians the resources to improve critical services, advance opportunities, and enhance quality of life across the Commonwealth.

“This funding delivers real results for Pennsylvanians,” said Senator McCormick. “It helps communities advance important projects and ensures taxpayer dollars are put to work where they are needed most. This money would have been spent by those in Washington, D.C. regardless. My goal is to steer these tax dollars home to worthy projects rather than leave these decisions to unelected bureaucrats.”

A full list of projects funded include:

Allegheny County Economic Development – Mon Valley Strategic Blight Removal (Allegheny County): To remove blighted, hazardous structures to encourage future development and positive economic impact ($1,200,000)

Allegheny County Police and Fire Training Academy (Allegheny County): To purchase public safety equipment and upgrade training facilities ($1,000,000)

Army Corps of Engineers – Montgomery Lock (Upper Ohio, Allegheny and Beaver Counties): To improve lock condition and capacity at three Ohio River lock and dam sites ($183,829,000)

Army Corps of Engineers – South Central PA Section 313 (Allegheny County): To upgrade storm and wastewater infrastructure ($12,000,000)

Army Corps of Engineers – Whitehall Section 219 (Lehigh County): To replace stormwater pipes ($1,000,000)

Bedford County Rural Assistance (Bedford County): To expand rural business training and support ($350,000)

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania TechVentures Lab Initiative (Northampton County): To renovate facilities for life science and technology businesses ($4,800,000)

Bethlehem Police Department (Northampton and Lehigh Counties): To purchase public safety technology and equipment ($700,000)

Bloomsburg YMCA (Columbia County): To create a Resource Hub for the Bloomsburg YMCA ($875,000)

Borough of Emporium (Cameron County): To repair and upgrade Town Hall building ($508,000)

Borough of Forest Hills (Allegheny County): To improve storm and wastewater system ($500,000)

Borough of Palmerton (Carbon County): To construct new police station ($550,000)

Borough of Sewickley Road Safety Improvement Plan (Allegheny County): To monitor and eliminate the current threats to roadway infrastructure ($250,000)

Bucktail Medical Center (Clinton County): To increase service lines and update severely outdated equipment at a critical access hospital ($949,000)

Carlisle Borough for Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements (Cumberland County): Installs wastewater treatment plant improvements ($1,943,000)

Catalyst Connection – Pennsylvania AI Data Centers & Energy Future (Allegheny County): To identify, assess, and develop a manufacturing supply chain in Southwestern Pennsylvania for AI data centers and associated energy needs ($600,000)

Centre County First Responders (Centre County): To purchase radio equipment for police, fire, and emergency medical services ($1,000,000)

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Restoration and Protection – Wildwood Lake Restoration (Dauphin County): To prevent flooding in Dauphin County ($500,000)

Chesapeake Bay Environmental Restoration and Protection (York County): To reduce flooding and improve water quality at Tyler Run Creek ($500,000)

City of Meadville (Crawford County): To replace outdated force main on French Creek ($750,000)

Cranberry Township (Butler County): To replace waterline along Route 19 main commercial corridor ($1,000,000)

Crary Hose Company Volunteer Fire Department (Potter County): To construct new fire station and emergency evacuation center in Westfield Borough ($1,286,250)

Dry Tavern Sewer Authority (Greene County): To install wastewater treatment plant improvements ($591,000)

DuBois Regional Airport Pavement Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Jefferson County): To rehabilitate the taxiways, apron, access road, and parking lot ($4,190,000)

Friendship Hose Co. No.1 (Schuylkill County): To construct new fire station in Orwigsburg Borough ($2,225,000)

Gannon University – Biomedical Laboratories (Erie County): To build two laboratories for cancer treatment, education, and research on Gannon’s campus ($500,000)

Guilford Township Authority for Marion Wastewater System (Franklin County): Completes wastewater system upgrades ($2,000,000)

Hermitage Municipal Authority (Mercer County): To upgrade three wastewater pump stations in Wheatland neighborhood ($913,600)

Innovation Works New Accelerator Model Project (Allegheny County): To support entrepreneurs with business and technical expertise ($750,000)

Johnston-Cambria County Airport Hangar Site (Cambria County):To support site development for a new hangar facility ($1,984,000)

Juniata College – Advanced Chemistry Instrumentation for Pennsylvania Students (Huntingdon County): To purchase chemistry lab equipment to prepare students to participate in a STEM workforce ($400,000)

City of Johnstown Police Department Crisis Intervention (Cambria County): To establish Crisis Intervention Team program for mental health and substance use disorder response ($250,000)

King’s College (Luzerne County): To purchase equipment for cybersecurity lab development ($300,000)

Lancaster Airport Authority (Lancaster County): To expand the existing terminal at Lancaster Airport ($5,000,000)

Lehigh-Carbon Community College (Lehigh County): To upgrade the mechatronics lab and create a new robotics lab at Lehigh Carbon Community College ($463,000)

Lehigh County: To purchase radio and public safety communications equipment for law enforcement ($500,000)

Machinery Control Development Center (Cumberland County): To support the mission of Naval Supply Systems Command at Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg ($15,000,000)

Meadville Fire Department Mobile Health Unit (Crawford County): To develop a Mobile Integrated Health Unit and EMS training within the Meadville Fire Department ($1,180,000)

Mercyhurst University (Erie County): To modernize training facilities and simulation-based learning for future nurses and physician assistants ($880,000)

Monroeville Municipal Authority (Allegheny County): To replace sections of water distribution system ($1,092,000)

Moshannon Valley EMS and Training Facility (Centre County): To provide a facility for agricultural and community activities ($2,074,716)

Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa (Beaver County): To construct separate storm and wastewater systems to replace combined system ($900,000)

Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company (OLTVFC) Regional Emergency Services Hub Enhancements (Lycoming County): To expand and renovate Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company’s Regional Emergency Services Hub building ($1,345,000)

PennDOT – Carbon County Bridge Replacement (Carbon County): To replace a bridge in Carbon County ($1,119,000)

PennDOT – Country Club Road Bridge Replacement (Butler County): To replace a bridge and complete intersection realignment work ($1,901,000)

PennDOT – Johnstown Dellwood Street Bridge Project (Cambria County): To repair the Dellwood Street Bridge($806,000)

PennDOT – SR18 Wilmington Road Betterment (Lawrence County): To restore and resurface a critical roadway in Lawrence County ($2,000,000)

PennDOT – Verona Road Bridge Replacement (Allegheny County): To replace Verona Road Bridge to improve corridor safety and reliability ($850,000)

PennDOT Versailles Avenue Viaduct Replacement (Allegheny County): To replace the Versailles Avenue Bridge ($850,000)

The Pennsylvania State University – Pennsylvania Addiction Action Network (Statewide): To establish a network for all 67 counties’ leadership to coordinate the utilization of the 20-year $1.7B opioid settlement to Pennsylvania ($750,000)

Reading Area Community College (Berks County): To expand the current space for manufacturing training ($2,000,000)

Scranton Police Department (Lackawanna County): To purchase technology and public safety equipment ($500,000)

Shippensburg Police Department (Cumberland County): Purchases public safety equipment to support police operations ($298,127)

The Exodus Road – Combatting Youth Exploitation (Philadelphia County): To support training activities for law enforcement and at-risk youth to combat online exploitation ($350,000)

The Learning Lamp (Cambria County): To improve early childhood education programs ($100,000)

University City Science Center (Philadelphia County):To assist small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) assistance ($400,000)

University of Pittsburgh Police Department (Allegheny County): To purchase communications equipment for campus police operations ($300,000)

University of Pittsburgh Western Pennsylvania Shared Quantum Information Core (Allegheny County): To purchase equipment and materials for quantum science research and development at University of Pittsburgh ($400,000)

Warren County Emergency Radio Tower (Warren County): To upgrade emergency communication systems and radio tower serving Warren and surrounding counties ($550,000)

Wayne and Pike County Career and Technical Center (Pike County): To help construct a new Career and Technical Center ($3,000,000)

Wyoming County Healthcare Center Pharmacy (Wyoming County):To support facility improvements and the build-out of a pharmacy within Wyoming County Healthcare Center in the rural community of Tunkhannock ($2,346,849 and $543,000)

York County Law Enforcement Multi-Office Public Safety Equipment (York County): Purchases public safety equipment to support law enforcement operations ($400,000)

Projects were submitted by local governments, nonprofit organizations, and other eligible public entities, selected in accordance with the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations’ fiscal year 2026 guidelines, and are designed to provide targeted federal support where it is needed most.

“A robust local manufacturing supply chain for AI Data Centers has the potential for significant job growth and economic impacts, leading to community benefits well beyond the construction and operation of data centers. Catalyst Connection looks forward to working with Senator McCormick and his team to engage local suppliers for the benefit of businesses, workers, families and communities,” said Petra Bracko Mitchell, President and CEO of Catalyst Connection.

“Thank you to Senator McCormick for his bipartisan partnership and for delivering critical investments for our Police and Fire Academy that strengthen public safety across the county,” said Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive. “This and the additional funding for strategic blight removal in the Mon Valley will help keep our communities safe, bolster economic development, and move our region forward.”

“As we continue to advocate for the advancement and improvement of our local community, this funding is both necessary and greatly appreciated. I see the award of these funds as a step in the right direction for Cameron County,” said James D. Moate, County of Cameron Commissioner.

“That is wonderful news. This funding represents an important investment in Emporium Borough’s Town Hall and the community it serves. We appreciate the support for projects that strengthen local infrastructure and help ensure our public facilities remain safe, accessible, and functional for residents,” said Jessica Herzing, Commissioner Chair for the County of Cameron.

“We are grateful to Senator McCormick for his support and for recognizing the critical role Mercyhurst plays in addressing the healthcare workforce shortage. This investment strengthens nursing and physician assistant education while delivering real value for patients and communities,” said Kathleen A. Getz, PhD, President of Mercyhurst University.

“This funding will improve the efficiency of the wastewater collection system in the merged Wheatland Neighborhood of Hermitage, by eliminating a pump station that has reached its useful life. We are grateful for the strong support of Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, and Congressman Mike Kelly, in making this appropriation possible,” said Duane Piccirilli, President, Hermitage Board of Commissioners.

“This initiative closes significant coverage gaps in our emergency communications system. Improved communications are essential to ensuring the safety of our first responders while also enhancing the level of response that can be provided to residents and visitors. As outdoor recreation grows as a sector of our economy, we’re particularly pleased that this project will expand emergency radio coverage on portions of the Allegheny National Forest. We’re grateful to Sen. McCormick for sharing in the vision of what we’re looking to accomplish with this project and his advocacy in securing this funding on our behalf,”said Public Safety Director Ken McCorrison.

“We are deeply appreciative of this support of our First Ascent Biomedical lab. These funds obtained through Sen. McCormick’s efforts will immediately support new jobs in Erie, Pa., at First Ascent as well as aid the development of two academic programs designed to fill gaps in the region’s healthcare workforce for years to come,” said Dr. Walter Iwanenko, President of Gannon University.

“Sen. McCormick has been one of Pennsylvania’s strongest advocates for building a thriving innovation economy. His leadership in securing significant investment in AI and power infrastructure underscores that commitment,” said Ven Raju, President and CEO of Innovation Works. “This earmark is yet another testament to his support for organizations like Innovation Works that help build and scale technology companies—creating jobs, transforming communities and reshaping regions.”

“This federal investment represents a transformational step forward for emergency medical services in Meadville and for rural communities across Pennsylvania. With Senator McCormick’s support, we will be able to expand paramedic education within our department, place new response vehicles and advanced life-saving equipment into service and build a Mobile Integrated Health program that connects residents to care faster and more effectively than ever before. As rural EMS systems continue to face staffing and sustainability challenges, initiatives like community paramedicine and telehealth allow us to meet people where they are — improving outcomes, reducing strain on hospitals, and strengthening the overall healthcare system. This funding will help ensure that our firefighters and paramedics have the tools, training, and technology necessary to deliver high-quality care to our community every day. We are grateful to Senator McCormick and our federal partners for recognizing the importance of innovative, fire-based EMS solutions and investing in the future of rural emergency response,” said Evan D. Kardosh, Fire Chief of the Meadville Fire Department.

“Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services is grateful to have the strong support of Senator McCormick to help us secure Congressionally Directed Funds. The receipt of these funds will help us realize the completion of a new facility that will house our public safety education and training center as well as our EMS headquarters. As a rural emergency medical services organization, Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services will use this facility to propel the future of emergency medical care to the entire Moshannon Valley covering Clearfield and Centre Counties and give individuals within Central Pennsylvania a more accessible location for public safety education and training which will improve our workforce and subsequently emergency care to a part of rural Pennsylvania. We are blessed and thankful for Senator McCormick to be a partner to ensure the safety and education for our community,” said Fredrick J. Ferguson, B.S. NRP, Moshannon Valley EMS Chief/Executive Director Paramedic and EMT Educator.

“The DuBois Regional Airport serves Jefferson, Clearfield, Elk, Clarion, and surrounding counties, and this project represents an important investment in a critical community asset that ensures safe airline operations, a positive customer experience, and continued access to the nation’s air transportation system for rural Pennsylvania,”said Bob Shaffer, Airport Manager, Clearfield-Jefferson Counties Regional Airport Authority.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-mccormick-and-kim-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-small-and-early-stage-entrepreneurs/,Senators McCormick and Kim Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Small and Early-Stage Entrepreneurs,2026-01-19,2026,2026-01,Republican,Senate,PA,David McCormick,M001243,www.mccormick.senate.gov,davemccormick,https://www.mccormick.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., January 15, 2026 – To reduce the financial barriers for early-stage entrepreneurs using crowdfunding while still maintaining investor confidence and market integrity, Senators Dave McCormick (R-PA) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) today introduced the Amendment for Crowdfunding Capital Enhancement and Small-business Support (ACCESS) Act.

Currently, startups, early-stage companies, or small businesses raising $100,000 are required to have financial statements reviewed by a public accountant before crowdfunding. The average cost per filing is approximately $10,000 so for businesses raising $100,000, accounting fees can immediately consume at least 10% of the total capital raised. This bipartisan bill proposes to raise the crowdfunding limit from $100,000 to $250,000 before companies need to submit financial statements to be reviewed by an independent accountant. This approach modernizes outdated thresholds and focuses compliance where it matters most – ensuring that larger, more sophisticated offerings remain subject to stronger oversight, while smaller and early-stage issuers are not burdened with one-size-fits-all requirements.

“Crowdfunding can be particularly valuable for Pennsylvania entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional financing or want to validate market demand before fully launching. By removing unnecessary barriers while maintaining investor protections, we’re unlocking greater capital for new businesses to take root in Pennsylvania and across the country — proving that smart regulation can mean more opportunity, not less,” said Senator Dave McCormick.

“Too often start-ups and small businesses face red tape and obstacles to capital that is a critical tool to their success, and in turn, their ability to give back to our communities. By modernizing outdated ‘one-size-fits-all’ requirements, we open doors for businesses and investors of all sizes and backgrounds to grow, while still looking after the overall stability and strength of our financial markets,” said Senator Andy Kim.

BACKGROUND:

In 2012, Congress passed the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act to help small businesses raise money from everyday investors. Before this law, companies had to complete a long, expensive registration process with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) before selling shares to the public.

The new Regulation Crowdfunding rules let startups raise smaller amounts from regular people through investment websites. Since 2016, these rules have helped over 6,500 businesses raise nearly $2.4 billion across 8,400 investment rounds for early-stage companies.

The Amendment for Crowdfunding Capital Enhancement and Small-business Support (ACCESS) Act will:

Enable small businesses to raise up to $250,000 (instead of the current $100,000) through crowd funding before they’re required to hire an outside accountant to review their financial statements; and

Allow the SEC to raise the threshold to $400,000, if the Advisory Offices recommends the change.

Pennsylvania ranks 5th in the total number of crowdfunding issuers, with more than 330 companies utilizing this funding opportunity since 2016.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T15:05:35Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/pennsylvania-members-congress-release-statement-regarding-certification,Pennsylvania Members of Congress Release Statement Regarding Certification of Electors,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) and seven Pennsylvania members of Congress released the following statement regarding the certification of electors on January 6, 2020:

The United States Constitution is unambiguous in declaring that state legislatures are the entity with authority to set election procedure

Article 1, Section 4, Clause 1: The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof'

Article 2, Section 1, Clause 2: Each state shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors'

Unfortunately, the many unlawful actions undertaken by the Pennsylvania Governor's office, the Secretary of State, and what has been described as a rogue Pennsylvania Supreme Court exceeded and circumvented the state legislature's clear constitutional authority.

The unlawful actions include, but are not limited to:

 Accepting ballots past 8:00 pm on Election Day.
	Not properly requiring signatures to match those on mail-in ballots or requiring dates.
		Meanwhile, the matching of signatures was required at a polling site.
		
	Authorizing the curing of mail-in ballots with less than a 24-hours' notice.
		Only some counties were informed and adhered to this order leaving voters treated unequally from county to county.
		
	Authorizing the use of unsecure drop boxes, which is not permitted in statute.
	Prohibiting certified poll watchers overseeing the canvassing of ballots in Philadelphia.
 
These unlawful actions were taken without the authority or consent of the Pennsylvania state legislature. These are facts, and they are indisputable.

Additionally, the Pennsylvania Attorney General did nothing with regard to these unlawful activities. Not one inquiry, no questioning, and certainly no investigations. Not to mention that hundreds, if not thousands, of affidavits outlining election complaints and potential fraud were documented, submitted, and ignored. The Pennsylvania election could be summed up as a free-for-all with no oversight and different standards applied throughout the Commonwealth. It is also very apparent that the unlawful actions described were concentrated in heavily populated, Democrat-led counties.

By definition, such unlawful, unregulated, and inconsistent activities resulted in a highly questionable and inaccurate vote total. The scope of these inaccuracies cannot be known until the legal ballots are identified and counted, and the illegal ballots are disqualified. This has not been done.

Therefore, the state's official certification of electors was based upon a flawed system and an inaccurate vote count. Thus, very possibly resulting in an erroneous certification.

Until these unlawful practices are acknowledged and corrected, we, as members of the U.S. House of Representatives, cannot agree to support electors chosen based upon an inaccurate total vote count. The voters of Pennsylvania deserve integrity in the election process and equal protection under the law.

This very unfortunate, volatile, and distressing situation is due to the lack of respect and regard for the law and the U.S. Constitution as well as the Pennsylvania State Constitution. Additionally, the failure of Pennsylvania's justice system to seek the truth, rather than stay silent, allowed these irregular, unlawful actions to create a high level of mistrust in the process as well as a potentially flawed outcome.

The one thing that all voters, regardless of party affiliation, can all agree upon is that we must have election integrity. That is the only way to ensure trust in our elections and it is accomplished by adhering to our Constitution and the law.


# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/pennsylvania-us-house-members-release-statement-certification-electors,Pennsylvania U.S. House Members Release Statement on Certification of Electors,2020-12-31,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Representative Mike Kelly (PA-16) today released this joint statement with Representatives Dan Meuser (PA-9), Glenn GT' Thompson (PA-15), Scott Perry (PA-10), Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), John Joyce (PA-13), and Fred Keller (PA-12) regarding their intent to vote against certification of Pennsylvania's electors on January 6:
The United States Constitution is unambiguous in declaring that state legislatures are the entity with authority to set election procedure -
Article 1, Section 4, Clause 1: The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof
Article 2, Section 1, Clause 2: Each state shall appoint, in such Manner as the Legislature thereof may direct, a Number of Electors
Unfortunately, the many unlawful actions undertaken by the Pennsylvania Governor's office, the Secretary of State, and what has been described as a rogue Pennsylvania Supreme Court exceeded and circumvented the state legislature's clear constitutional authority.
The unlawful actions include, but are not limited to:
 Accepting ballots past 8:00 pm on Election Day;
Not properly requiring signatures to match those on mail-in ballots or requiring dates.Meanwhile, the matching of signatures was required at a polling site;
Authorizing the curing of mail-in ballots with less than a 24-hour's notice.Only some counties were informed and adhered to this order leaving voters treated unequally from county to county;
Authorizing the use of unsecured drop boxes, which is not permitted in statute
Prohibiting certified poll watchers overseeing the canvassing of ballots in Philadelphia;
 These unlawful actions were taken without the authority or consent of the Pennsylvania state legislature. These are facts, and they are indisputable.
Additionally, the Pennsylvania Attorney General did nothing with regard to these unlawful activities. Not one inquiry, no questioning, and certainly no investigations. Not to mention that hundreds, if not thousands, of affidavits outlining election complaints and potential fraud were documented, submitted, and ignored. The Pennsylvania election could be summed up as a free-for-all with no oversight and different standards applied throughout the Commonwealth. It is also very apparent that the unlawful actions described were concentrated in heavily populated, Democrat-led counties.
By definition, such unlawful, unregulated, and inconsistent activities resulted in a highly questionable and inaccurate vote total. The scope of these inaccuracies cannot be known until the legal ballots are identified and counted, and the illegal ballots are disqualified. This has not been done.
Therefore, the state's official certification of electors was based upon a flawed system and an inaccurate vote count. Thus, very possibly resulting in an erroneous certification.
Until these unlawful practices are acknowledged and corrected, we cannot agree to support electors chosen based upon an inaccurate total vote count. The voters of Pennsylvania deserve integrity in the election process and equal protection under the law.
This very unfortunate, volatile, and distressing situation is due to the lack of respect and regard for the law and the U.S. Constitution as well as the Pennsylvania State Constitution. Additionally, the failure of Pennsylvania's justice system to seek the truth, rather than stay silent, allowed these irregular, unlawful actions to create a high level of mistrust in the process as well as a potentially flawed outcome.
If there is an American ideal that all citizens, regardless of party affiliation, can agree upon it is that we must have election integrity. Election integrity is the only way to ensure trust in our elections and it is accomplished by adhering to our Constitution and the law.""
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/rep-kelly-votes-override-presidential-veto-ndaa,Rep. Kelly Votes to Override Presidential Veto of NDAA,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives today voted to override President Trump's veto of the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA is enacted annually to set the policy and spending priorities of the United States military. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) voted to pass the NDAA over the president's objection and issued this statement:
""The NDAA outlines the budget and policies the Department of Defense uses to plan for the next year. While I support the president's goal of amending or abolishing Section 230, that debate must not delay military planning for 2021.""
#####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/kelly-statement-house-vote-increase-stimulus-payments-600-2000,Kelly Statement on House Vote to Increase Stimulus Payments from $600 to $2000,2020-12-28,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) issued this statement following his vote against increasing COVID-19 pandemic relief stimulus checks from $600 to $2000:
""I support providing direct relief to Pennsylvanians whose current economic struggles were caused by Governor Wolf's lockdown of the Keystone State for most of 2020, but this stimulus check expansion misses the mark because it is not targeted to people who need it most and ignores President Trump's call to reduce wasteful government spending. Our path forward must include direct relief, spending cuts, and opening the Commonwealth's economy so families can go back to work.""
#####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/twenty-eight-members-congress-file-amicus-brief-supporting-representative-kellys,Twenty Eight Members of Congress File Amicus Brief Supporting Representative Kelly's Lawsuit Challenging Pennsylvania's Unconstitutional Mail-in Ballot System,2020-12-24,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - Last night, more than two dozen members of the United States House of Representatives filed an amicus brief supporting the plaintiffs inMike Kelly, U.S. Congressman, et al. v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, et al., a case challenging the constitutionality of Pennsylvania's no-excuse mail-in ballot voting system.
""I am honored that so many of my colleagues from Pennsylvania and across the country have joined our fight to protect the Pennsylvania Constitution, which states clearly how voters are to cast their votes in the Commonwealth,""said Kelly.""If Governor Wolf and the legislature wanted to create another method of voting, they should have amended the PennsylvaniaConstitution, which requires, among other factors, placing the question on the ballot for Pennsylvanians to consent.We're asking the Supreme Court of the United States to hear our case and require the Commonwealth to properly amend the Constitution if they want to create a mail-in voting system for future elections.
Read the Amicus Brief Here
Members of Congress who signed the amicus brief include Representatives Alex Mooney (R- W.Va.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Andy Harris (R-Md.), Bill Posey (R-Fla.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Dan Bishop (R-N.C.), Dan Meuser (R-Pa.), Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.), Fred Keller (R-Pa.), GT Thompson (R-Pa.), Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Jody Hice (R-Ga.),Dr. John Joyce (R-Pa.), Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.), Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Michael Cloud (R-Texas), Mike Johnson (R- La.), Mo Brooks (R-Ala.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Randy Weber (R-Texas), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Scott Perry (R-Pa.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Ted Yoho (R-Fla.) and Warren Davison (R-Ohio).
Background
In this case, Representative Kelly and the other plaintiffsallege that the Pennsylvania Legislature and Governor Wolf violated the Pennsylvania Constitution when they enacted no-excuse mail-in voting, which conflicts with the Constitution's clear delineation of what makes a person eligible to vote by mail.
Commonwealth Court Judge Patricia McCullough issued an emergency preliminary injunctionin the case, saying:
Petitioners appear to have established a likelihood to succeed on the merits because Petitioners have asserted the Constitution does not provide a mechanism for the legislature to allow for expansion of absentee voting without a constitutional amendment.
Following this pronouncement, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania appealed directly to the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, which dismissed the case on a technicality without addressing the merits of the petitioners' claims. Currently, the Petitioners have filed awrit of Certiorarito argue the merits before the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS).SCOTUS has yet to announce whether it will take up the case.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/president-trump-signs-keller-s-bill-honoring-hunts-healing-founder-law,President Trump signs Kellers bill honoring Hunts for Healing founder into law,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, President Trump signed into law H.R. 4279, Congressman Keller's bill to designate the Post Office in Laceyville, Pennsylvania, as the Melinda Gene Piccotti Office in honor of the late Mindy Piccotti, an Air Force veteran who founded Hunts for Healing.

Started in 2009, Hunts for Healing aims to help wounded soldiers returning from military missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and other combat veterans transition back into civilian life by allowing them to experience the joys of hunting, including social interaction and camaraderie. The Hunts for Healing team is completely volunteer based, made up of veterans and community members committed to supporting America's men and women in uniform.

On the bill becoming law, Congressman Keller made the following statement:

Today is an exciting day for our veteran community, the residents of Laceyville, Mindy's family, and every person whose life has been touched by Mindy's outstanding work. Mindy was a community leader who cared deeply about making sure our wounded veterans had the support they need to recover from and overcome their injuries. Mindy built an organization that continues to grow, making an important impact in our community. I thank President Trump for signing this bill into law and for allowing us to finally give Mindy the recognition she deserves for her lifetime of service.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/kelly-statement-passage-targeted-pandemic-related-economic-relief-americans,Kelly Statement on Passage of Targeted Pandemic-Related Economic Relief for Americans,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - The U.S. House of Representatives today passed theBipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus & COVID Relief Deal, legislation to provide pandemic-related financial relief to workers and small businesses and to fund the federal government through September 30, 2021, the end of Fiscal Year 2021. U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) voted in favor of the legislation and released this statement:
""For most of 2020, government lockdowns because of the pandemic have caused economic pain across the nation and our Commonwealth. This bill, while far from perfect, brings targeted economic relief to workers and small businesses. I support the direct payments to individuals and families, the provisions that will allow for the deductibility of Paycheck Protection Program loans, and unemployment insurance supplements, all of which will help western Pennsylvanians weather this economic storm. Additionally, as the COVID-19 vaccine makes its way to communities across America, this bill helps ensure it gets to those most vulnerable. While these measures provide temporary relief, the real solution to our economic and emotional well-being is to open the economy and get people back to work.""
#####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-votes-no-massive-year-end-spending-bill,Congressman Fred Keller votes no on massive year-end spending bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) released the following statement after voting against the $2.3 trillion year-end spending package, which combined government funding with COVID-relief legislation and passed the House by a vote of 359-53:

Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement in response to the vote:

Since the start of the pandemic, I have advocated for targeted relief for American families, workers, and small businesses that is focused on getting Americans back to work. The best stimulus is a job, and Congress should advance policies that will allow our economy to recover and create family-sustaining jobs for Pennsylvanians. While this legislative package includes measures I have worked hard to advance, such as extending and improving the Paycheck Protection Program, it also spends well beyond our nation's means, lacks critical protections for small businesses, healthcare providers, and educators, and continues policies that will make it harder to achieve sustained economic recovery.

Based on conversations with small businesses and workers across Pennsylvania's 12th District, I have advocated for an extension of the PPP and allowing businesses to deduct PPP expenses. The PPP has been a tremendous success keeping Americans employed and our small businesses operational by providing forgivable loans. These provisions will allow struggling small businesses and their workers to continue to access critical resources. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi and the House Democrat majority blocked efforts to pass a clean extension of the PPP more than 40 times since the program expired in August.

For months, Speaker Pelosi passed messaging bills, using the pandemic as a political bargaining chip. COVID relief must stand on its own and be narrowly targeted to the hardest hit industries and those who need it the most. The only way we will see sustained economic recovery is by supporting relief that gets Americans back to work. Unfortunately, this bill saddles our children and grandchildren with more debt and misses the mark in ensuring targeted relief for the American people.

This package includes an Omnibus appropriations bill, coronavirus relief, an extension of expiring tax credits, and legislation to address surprise medical billing. Each of these items is important, and Congress should deal with them individuallythrough regular orderso that members of Congress and the American people can review them. Unfortunately, this 5,593-page bill was released hours before the House voted on it. We are never going to change Washington, D.C. and fix our nation's problems legislating like this.

Background

Congressman Keller has taken significant action to get targeted, pro-growth relief to American families, workers, and businesses. Those actions include:

 Supporting H.R. 7010, the PPP Flexibility Act, which provided additional flexibility to PPP loans, including extending the time period businesses have to spend their funds and lowering the threshold required to be spent on payroll.
 
 Sending a letter to Senate leadership and the Senate Small Business Committee, requesting the creation of a streamlined forgiveness application for loans under $350,000 to prevent businesses from being weighed down by burdensome guidelines when applying for loans or loan forgiveness.
 
 Cosponsoring H.R. 7777, the Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act, a bipartisan bill that modifies loan forgiveness under the paycheck protection program for loans of $150,000 or less.
 
 Cosponsoring H.R. 7175, the Paycheck Protection for Producers Act, which would allow farmers to calculate their PPP loan amount based on 2019 gross income rather than net income.
 
 Signing Congresswoman Jamie Herrera Beutler's discharge petition, which would force a vote on H.R. 8265, the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act, to free up and extend the additional $138 billion of unspent PPP funds.
 
 Sending a letter to Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader McCarthy requesting that Congress restore deductibility of forgiven Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) expenses.
 
 Sending a letter to House leadership requesting clarification that recipients of forgivable PPP loans can claim normal deductions in any end-of-year legislation.
 
# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/incoming-house-ag-committee-ranking-member-outlines-top-priorities,Incoming House Ag Committee Ranking Member Outlines Top Priorities,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Glenn GT Thompson, GOP Leader Elect of the House Ag Committee, says his number one priority is building resiliency within the ag food supply chain.
We've all witnessed the disruptions as a result of the coronavirus, he says. I'm excited that we're talking on the week where the first vaccines are already being delivered around the country and being received but we have a few months here yet that we still will have to deal with some of the impacts of the coronavirus and I think building resiliency within the ag industry has to be a priority for us.
He tells Brownfield building new markets for agricultural products is another priority.
Whether that's domestic markets through innovative approaches for use of our farm commodities or expanding our foreign markets, he says. We've seen some good signs from USMCA and certainly the China trade deal. 
Other priorities include improving broadband connectivity and supporting farmers and ag practices that address conservation needs and climate issues.
The Pennsylvania Republican says it is a privilege and honor to have been selected by his colleagues to serve as Ranking Member of the 117thCongress. The new Congress will convene on January 3.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/intermediate-unit-be-given-head-start-grant,Intermediate unit to be given Head Start grant,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"McVEYTOWN  Rep. Fred Keller, whose 12th District encompasses all of Mifflin, Juniata, Snyder and Perry counties, has announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded a grant to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 in Mifflin County.
A Head Start grant in the amount of $839,202 will be administered by HHS to TIU 11 to support comprehensive childhood development and better meet the needs of area children and families in need.
On the awarding of the grants, Keller made the following statement:
Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 is an outstanding service agency dedicated to bettering children's lives and providing them with the education and tools necessary for future success. I am confident that this grant will go a long way to support their important mission. I commend HHS for continuing to connect our community with federal resources that to improve the lives of those living in our region.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-keller-participates-hearing-america-s-opioid-epidemic,Congressman Keller participates in hearing on Americas opioid epidemic,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) participated in a hearing of the House Oversight and Reform Committee focusing on the role of Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family in the opioid epidemic. During his remarks, Congressman Keller highlighted the importance of holding companies like Purdue Pharma accountable for engaging in deceptive tactics that ultimately worsened America's opioid epidemic.
Congressman Keller noted that Purdue Pharma and the Sackler Family significantly downplayed the addictiveness and other effects of OxyContin to the American people when the drug was first marketed.
Starting in 1996, Purdue Pharma and the Sackler Family marketed OxyContina drug at the forefront of our nation's opioid epidemicas having much lower addiction risk to patients, which sharply contrasts with the reality that this drug has cost lives and torn families apart, Keller said.
Congressman Keller asked Dr. Craig Landau, President and CEO of Purdue Pharma, what his company is doing to educate patients and providers about the dangers of overprescribing opioids.
We are supporting a tremendous amount of education through third party resources to bring to the surface important information relating to the prescription of opioidstheir safe storage and disposaland the consequences of addiction with an emphasis on school children to prevent them from initial exposure which can have devastating consequences, Dr. Landau said.
In a follow-up question about ensuring accountability in the future, Congressman Keller asked Dr. Landau how he would recommend Congress work with the pharmaceutical industry to prevent opioid addiction.
What I would recommend is to make training for prescribing opioids mandatory, Dr. Landau said.  
	I would also suggest that efforts be made to require that all the medicines within this classcontrolled release and immediate release opioidshave barriers introduced to make them less attractive as drugs of abuse. Addiction is a tougher issue. It's a complex medical condition with various contributing factors. I think education of physicians and access to healthcare are vital.
A copy of Congressman Keller's remarks can be found below.
Thank you, Madam Chair,
I appreciate you holding this important hearing. For decades, drug overdose deaths have remained at an unacceptable level across the United States. Just last year, we lost 4,458 Pennsylvanians due to drug overdose. That's 12 deaths per day on average, which is 12 too many.
I hope this committee and the House of Representatives can get to work on solutions that save lives and enhance the 21st Century Cures Act and the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act.
Thanks to these efforts and President Trump's leadership on the issue, more resources are available to fight the opioid epidemic. Naloxone is more widely available to prevent overdoses, which has led to encouraging downward trends, however more work is needed to reduce deaths related to the opioids. This includes holding companies like Perdue accountable for their deceptive tactics.
Starting in 1996, Perdue Pharma and the Sackler Family marketed OxyContina drug at the forefront of our nation's opioid epidemicas having much lower addiction risk to patients, which sharply contrasts with the reality that this drug has cost lives and torn families apart.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/congressman-thompson-optimistic-covid-relief-will-be-passed-soon,Congressman Thompson Optimistic COVID Relief Will Be Passed Soon,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Glenn GT Thompson, incoming GOP leader of the House Ag Committee, says it's critical that lawmakers pass a coronavirus relief bill soon.
Our farmers and ranchers are still needing assistance and so are our agriculture businesses, he says. That's why it's so important that, if not within days, within the week that we pass a COVID-19 relief act that offers support to farmers and ranchers and neighbors in need that are struggling from a nutritional perspective.
He tells Brownfield he is optimisticI'm planning on sticking around through the weekend and I'm hoping we'll get this done. Leadership on both sides of the aisle are looking at tying the next covid relief package in with the federal funding.
The Pennsylvania Republican was elected by his colleagues to serve as Ranking member of the House A Committee in the 117thCongress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/republican-members-oversight-and-reform-commission-demand-emergency-hearing-about,Republican members of Oversight and Reform Commission demand emergency hearing about online censorship,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-Pa.) has joined his colleagues from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform in demanding that Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) hold an emergency hearing about online censorship in light of the news that Hunter Biden's business dealings are under federal investigation.
House Oversight Republicans claim that a New York Post article regarding Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings was censored by Facebook and Twitter. The committee further expressed concerns of political bias among large tech companies and the silencing of conservative voices and values. Chairwoman Maloney refused to hold a hearing about the issue.
Last week, Hunter Biden confirmed that his taxes are indeed under federal investigation. In response, the Oversight Republicans sent a second letter to Chairwoman Maloney demanding an emergency hearing about censorship.
On the second letter, Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement:
Despite Big Tech's censorship of Americans' free speech in the Hunter Biden cover-up, we now know he is under federal investigation. This level of unchecked censorship is unacceptable and has no place in the United States. I urge Chairwoman Maloney to hold an emergency hearing to hold Big Tech accountable for its clear violations of Americans' free speech.
The full text of the letter follows:
Dear Madam Chairwoman:
On October 15, 2020, we requested you hold an emergency hearing on Big Tech's repeated efforts to interfere in the 2020 election. At that timejust days before the November 3, 2020 presidential electionFacebook and Twitter censored a news article about Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, regarding his Ukrainian business dealings while his father was Vice President.These Big Tech companies both limited and/or denied distribution of the New York Post's report, and Twitter locked the New York Post's account.
Last week, both Hunter Biden and the Biden-Harris Transition Team acknowledged Hunter Biden is under federal investigation for his tax affairs. Reporting indicates this investigation is related to his overseas business dealings. In light of Hunter Biden's admission that he is under investigation, especially after Big Tech's unjustifiable censorship of the New York Post's report, we are renewing our hearing request. Big Tech's silencing of viewpoints and censorship of news undermines our electoral process, our institutions, and our U.S. Constitution.
As we explained in our October 15 letter, shortly after the New York Post posted its story on Facebook the company reduc[ed] its distribution in an apparent attempt to limit access to the story. Just as concerning, Facebook reportedly refused to answer basic questions about its decision. Twitter also censored the article and warned users that it is potentially spammy or unsafe, and locked the New York Post's Twitter account.
As Hunter Biden admitted last week, he is under federal investigation regarding his taxes, potentially related in part to the very matters the New York Post reported, yet for which it was censored. Indeed, additional reporting from NBC News refers to a 2017 email to Hunter Biden regarding his income from Burisma and need to amend Biden's 2014 tax returns to reflect the unreported income. An NBC spokesperson did not dispute the authenticity of the email, which came from a laptop dropped off at a computer hardware store in Delawarethe same laptop and same computer hardware store discussed in the New York Post's October 14 article censored by Big Tech for being potentially spammy or unsafe. Big Tech's effort to selectively limit speech based on political affiliation is a disturbing patten [sic] of censorship in our nationa nation that holds out the First Amendment's right to freedom of speech and freedom of the press as two of our most paramount freedoms.
As Big Tech platforms continue to limit speech based on political ideology, we must immediately hold a hearing to learn who are responsible for making these decisions and what policies enable Big Tech to selectively limit and/or censor speech on social media. We reiterate our request the Committee hold an emergency hearing on this important matter as soon as possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-announces-2020-congressional-app-challenge-winner,Congressman Fred Keller announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge winner,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) today announced that Loyalsock Township High School junior Hibah Khan has been selected as the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge for Pennsylvania's 12th District.
The Congressional App Challenge is designed to engage student creativity and encourage participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education fields. This nationwide event allows high school students from across the country to compete against their peers by creating and exhibiting their software application, or ""app,"" for mobile, tablet, or computer devices on a platform of their choice. The Congressional App Challenge is sponsored by the Internet Education Foundation (IEF), which assists offices in hosting the challenges in their individual districts.
Khan created a web application for a new community group, the Williamsport Youth Organization (WYO). She built a responsive website using HTML, CSS and JavaScript to inform the community of WYO's mission, activities and partnerships. Khan's winning creation will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building and featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website.
The Congressional App Challenge is open to all middle school and high school students in participating districts. Information on the 2021 contest will be announced next spring.
On the award, Congressman Keller made the following statement:
Congratulations to Ms. Khan on this wonderful achievement and for using her passion for coding to make a difference in our community. It is my hope that Ms. Khan's success inspires other students to get involved in STEM fields and use their creativity and innovation to solve the problems of tomorrow. I am confident that Ms. Khan will continue to be an active leader in our community, and I have no doubt she will do great things in the future. Thank you to the Internet Education Foundation for sponsoring the Congressional App Challenge and elevating the importance of STEM in our nation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/top-gop-lawmakers-call-swalwell-be-removed-intelligence-committee,Top GOP lawmakers call for Swalwell to be removed from Intelligence Committee,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Top Republicans in the House are calling for Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) to be removed from the Intelligence Committee following reports that he was allegedly targeted by a woman believed to be a Chinese spy.
In a letter sent Tuesday to Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), the lawmakers, including House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) and House Republican Conference Chair Liz Cheney (Wyo.), said Swalwell's contacts posed a national security risk.
Because of Rep. Swalwell's position on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, his close interactions with Chinese intelligence services, however unintentional they may be, are an unacceptable national security risk, they wrote.
It said the panel handles some of the most sensitive information our government possesses,"" and that as a result Swalwell should be removed from his position.
Axios first reported that Swalwell had been targeted by an alleged Chinese Ministry of State Security operative named Christine Fang, who also goes by Fang Fang. The woman, according to the report, helped Swalwell's fundraising during his 2014 reelection campaign and she also helped place an unpaid intern inside his office.
The Republicans drew a parallel to Democratic calls for former Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign after he met with a Russian ambassador without alerting Congress.
The lawmakers said that Swalwell should be held to the same standard as Sessions, arguing that his interactions with the Chinese agent were more dangerous.
Rep. Swalwell withheld information for five years from the House Intelligence Committee about an ongoing Chinese espionage operation targeted at him and his own colleagues, they wrote.
Obviously, Rep. Swalwell's interactions with a Chinese spy were more dangerous and unusual than AG Sessions' meetings with a Russian diplomat. But to make matters worse, Rep. Swalwell kept this information to himself while repeatedly using his position on [the Intelligence Committee] to peddle damaging and baseless conspiracies about President Donald Trump's unproven ties to Russia for years and still refuses to comment fully on the extent and nature of his relationship with the Chinese Communist Party spy exposed in Axios' bombshell report.
Swalwell told Politico last week he severed contact with Fang after he was alerted by federal investigators of alleged suspicious activity and is not accused of any wrongdoing, adding Democratic leadership knew about the interactions.
He also questioned the timing of the report, arguing that there was political motivation behind the leak given his rebukes of the Trump administration.
Fang left the country in 2015 during the FBI investigation into her activities.
Pelosi has previously stated she has no concerns about Swalwell remaining on the panel.
""I don't have any concern about Mr. Swalwell, she told reporters last week.
Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Banks (Ind.) and GOP Reps. Paul Gosar (Ariz.), Jody Hice (Ga.), Ralph Norman (S.C.), Bob Gibbs (Ohio), Greg Murphy (N.C.), Ron Wright (Texas), Ted Budd (N.C.), Jeff Duncan (S.C.), Warren Davidson (Ohio), Fred Keller (Pa.) and Kevin Hern (Okla.) also signed on to the letter.
Other GOP lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) and retiring Rep. Pete King (N.Y.), who previously sat on the Intelligence Committee, have also called for Swalwell's removal from the panel.
""I will accept Swalwell's claim that he ended all involvement with Fang after he was informed by the FBI that she was a spy,"" King wrote in an op-ed in The Hill on Tuesday. ""Nevertheless, the fact remains that he was compromised and made susceptible to blackmail by the Chinese, who could threaten him with the disclosure of his involvement with their alleged agent. No matter what anyone thinks of Swalwell, his appointment was not a risk worth taking.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-announces-head-start-grant-tuscarora-intermediate-unit,Congressman Fred Keller announces Head Start grant to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded a grant to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 in Mifflin County.

A Head Start grant in the amount of $839,202 will be administered by HHS to Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 to support comprehensive childhood development and better meet the needs of area children and families in need.

On the awarding of the grants, Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement:

Tuscarora Intermediate Unit 11 is an outstanding service agency dedicated to bettering children's lives and providing them with the education and tools necessary for future success. I am confident that this grant will go a long way to support their important mission. I commend HHS for continuing to connect our community with federal resources that to improve the lives of those living in our region.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-keller-oversight-republicans-renew-call-emergency-hearing-big-tech,"Congressman Keller, Oversight Republicans renew call for emergency hearing on Big Tech censorship",2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) today joined his colleagues from the House Committee on Oversight and Reform in demanding Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) hold an emergency hearing on Big Tech censorship, in light of the news that Hunter Biden is under federal investigation.
In October, House Oversight Republicans called for an emergency hearing after a New York Post articlehighlighting Hunter Biden's foreign business dealingswas censored by Facebook and Twitter, raising significant concerns of political bias and the silencing of conservative voices and values by Big Tech companies. Chairwoman Maloney refused to hold a hearing.
Last week, Hunter Biden confirmed that he is under federal investigation regarding his taxes, prompting Oversight Republicans to send a second letter to Chairwoman Maloney demanding an emergency hearing to hold Big Tech accountable for suppressing free speech and censoring conservative voices.
On the second letter, Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement:
Despite Big Tech's censorship of Americans' free speech in the Hunter Biden cover-up, we now know he is under federal investigation. This level of unchecked censorship is unacceptable and has no place in the United States. I urge Chairwoman Maloney to hold an emergency hearing to hold Big Tech accountable for its clear violations of Americans' free speech.
Full text of that letter can be found below.
Dear Madam Chairwoman:  
	  
	On October 15, 2020, we requested you hold an emergency hearing on Big Tech's repeated efforts to interfere in the 2020 election.[1] At that timejust days before the November 3, 2020 presidential electionFacebook and Twitter censored a news article about Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, regarding his Ukrainian business dealings while his father was Vice President.[2] These Big Tech companies both limited and/or denied distribution of the New York Post's report, and Twitter locked the New York Post's account.[3]  
	  
	Last week, both Hunter Biden and the Biden-Harris Transition Team acknowledged Hunter Biden is under federal investigation for his tax affairs.[4] Reporting indicates this investigation is related to his overseas business dealings.[5] In light of Hunter Biden's admission that he is under investigation, especially after Big Tech's unjustifiable censorship of the New York Post's report, we are renewing our hearing request. Big Tech's silencing of viewpoints and censorship of news undermines our electoral process, our institutions, and our U.S. Constitution.  
	  
	As we explained in our October 15 letter, shortly after the New York Post posted its story on Facebook the company reduc[ed] its distribution in an apparent attempt to limit access to the story.[6] Just as concerning, Facebook reportedly refused to answer basic questions about its decision.[7] Twitter also censored the article and warned users that it is potentially spammy or unsafe, and locked the New York Post's Twitter account.[8]  
	  
	As Hunter Biden admitted last week, he is under federal investigation regarding his taxes, potentially related in part to the very matters the New York Post reported, yet for which it was censored. Indeed, additional reporting from NBC News refers to a 2017 email to Hunter Biden regarding his income from Burisma and need to amend Biden's 2014 tax returns to reflect the unreported income.[9] An NBC spokesperson did not dispute the authenticity of the email, which came from a laptop dropped off at a computer hardware store in Delawarethe same laptop and same computer hardware store discussed in the New York Post's October 14 article censored by Big Tech for being potentially spammy or unsafe. Big Tech's effort to selectively limit speech based on political affiliation is a disturbing patten of censorship in our nationa nation that holds out the First Amendment's right to freedom of speech and freedom of the press as two of our most paramount freedoms.  
	  
	As Big Tech platforms continue to limit speech based on political ideology, we must immediately hold a hearing to learn who are responsible for making these decisions and what policies enable Big Tech to selectively limit and/or censor speech on social media. We reiterate our request the Committee hold an emergency hearing on this important matter as soon as possible.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/injured-usp-allenwood-corrections-officer-released-hospital,Injured USP Allenwood corrections officer released from hospital,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Danville, Pa.  A corrections officer at the United States Penitentiary at Allenwood who was injured last week during an assault by an inmate has been released from the hospital.
A spokesperson at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville confirmed Dale Franquet Jr., 51, was discharged on Sunday.
Franquet Jr. was transported to the hospital on Monday, December 7, after an inmate assaulted him and another staff member. The inmate reportedly stabbed Franquet Jr. in the eye with a shank. Franquet Jr. underwent surgery on Wednesday to remove his right eye.
The federal Bureau of Prisons did not release the identity of the second staff member, but The Daily Item reports that corrections officer was Sara Harvey. She reportedly was injured but has since returned to work.
Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12), who serves on the federal Bureau of Prisons Reform caucus, said in a media release that Franquet Jr.'s father said he is expected to be fitted with a prosthetic eye within three months.
Shane Fausey, the national president of the Council of Prison Locals and an employee at Allenwood prison complex, said the assaults are a stark reminder of the unpredictable and violent nature of the vital work the Bureau of Prisons correctional professionals do every day, according to Keller's release.
Details regarding the attack are not being released pending an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Franquet Jr.'s brother, Jeffrey Franquet, of New Jersey, and his sister, Corie Kline, started a Go Fund Me campaign. The pair stated on the campaign page that the inmate who assaulted their brother was serving a sentence for terrorism.
The Go Fund Me, which had raised more than $29,000 by Monday afternoon, is to help support Franquet Jr.'s family including his two daughters during a time of financial distress. Unfortunately, our brother will have to learn a whole new way of life and a whole new normal. Doing the simplest of task will be a struggle until Dale adjusts to this new way of life, Franquet and Kline wrote in the campaign update.
Franquet Jr., who was employed by the federal prison system for 22 years, also is the head wrestling coach at Midd-West High School. He had recently built a pole barn on his property for wrestling clinics and had been scheduled to hold a grand opening last Saturday, according to Keller. Those plans are temporarily on hold.
Franquet Jr.'s father, Dale Franquet Sr., of Orwigsburg, expects that he will recover quickly. He's a tough individual and will be stronger for it, Franquet Sr. said, recalling how at age 16 Franquet Jr. wrestled in high school with a broken hand, according to Keller's release.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-calls-immediate-small-business-relief,Congressman Fred Keller calls for immediate small business relief,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today on the steps of the Capitol, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) joined Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy, Whip Steve Scalise, Conference Chair Liz Cheney, and other House Republicans for a press conference on the need to immediately extend the Paycheck Protection Program and deliver much needed relief to America's small business, workers, and hardest hit industries.
The Paycheck Protection Program expired 124 days ago, yet Speaker Pelosi has yet to take legislative action to reopen this highly effective program, which has served as a lifeline for thousands of small businesses nationwide. In Pennsylvania, more than 73,000 small businesses received PPP loans totaling over $20.7 billion in forgivable loans that helped them keep workers employed.
In a video immediately after the press conference, Congressman Keller called on Speaker Pelosi to put partisan politics aside and join House Republicans' effort to reopen the Paycheck Protection Program and deliver the remaining $138 billion in relief to those who need it the most.

Here a few excerpts from Congressman Keller's video:
H.R. 8265 would provide relief to small businesses and the people who work for them.
Speaker Pelosi has admitted that, for political purposes, she's held up relief negotiations, and she's done so more than 40 times.
It's time to end the [political] games; it's time to get to work. Let's get this bill done, and let's get relief to the people who need it most.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-responds-gov-wolf-s-latest-shutdown-orders,Congressman Fred Keller responds to Gov. Wolfs latest shutdown orders,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  In response to Governor Tom Wolf's latest shutdown order announcement, Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) made the following statement:
Since the start of the pandemic, small businesses and workers across Pennsylvania have suffered due to Governor Wolf's chronic mismanagement and heavy-handed shutdown mandates. Now, two weeks before Christmas, the governor is once again taking unilateral action that will further devastate our economy and threaten the livelihoods of countless Pennsylvanians simply trying to earn a living.
To put it plainly, shutdowns do not work. As with his previous order, the governor's latest shutdown will advantage big box stores, destroy countless small businesses and restaurants, and cause more harm than it solves.
Today's announcement shows a stunning lack of confidence in the people of Pennsylvania who have been living and learning through this pandemic for nearly a year. Pennsylvanians are smart, hardworking people capable of following common-sense guidance from healthcare professionals. The last thing Pennsylvania needs are more mandates and a one-size-fits-all shutdown order.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/congressman-fred-keller-responds-rise-covid-19-cases-union-county-federal-prisons,Congressman Fred Keller responds to rise in COVID-19 cases in Union County federal prisons,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Union County, Pa.  As cases of coronavirus continue to rise at federal prisons across the country, Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) released a statement calling the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) inadequate in containing outbreaks.
The statement was released in conjunction with Andy Kim, (NJ-03), who also has prisons in his district that have experienced outbreaks.
Keller's district includes Union County, where federal prisons in Allenwood and Lewisburg previously experienced COVID-19 outbreaks.
The coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges for the federal prison system tasked with keeping inmates and correctional officers safe. However, it is clear that the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) COVID-19 response plan has been inadequate in containing outbreaks at a number of facilities across the country. Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system.
Despite the uptick in cases in certain facilities, the BOP continues to transfer inmates between facilities, in many cases transferring COVID-19 positive inmates into new facilities, exposing staff and other personnel to the virus. It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country.
Allenwood United States Penitentiary previously had an outbreak, with 120 inmate and five staff cases reported on the BOP website on Nov. 24. As of Dec. 7, the website shows there are now three inmates who tested positive and 11 staff. A total of 132 inmates and two staff have recovered.
Allenwood Medium shows shows 45 current inmates cases and nine staff cases. Allenwood Low shows 20 inmates with active COVID-19 cases and six staff.
Related Reading: State and federal prisons in Pennsylvania experiencing more COVID-19 outbreaks
The United States Penitentiary in Lewisburg also experienced an outbreak in August, with almost 50 inmates at one point reported as being positive for COVID-19. Public relations representatives at BOP had told NorthcentralPa.com at the time that they were not taking transfers at the Union County facilities. Currently, there are no active COVID-19 cases among inmates.
Related Reading: USP Lewisburg now reports 46 inmates positive for COVID-19
The BOP must also clearly outline, and make public, the steps that it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities. We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk. We stand ready to work alongside the BOP to find common ground and solutions that will save lives.
Congressman Keller and Congressman Kim are members of the Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus, of which Congressman Keller is the founder and chairman.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/keller-and-wild-introduce-nurses-care-act,Keller and Wild Introduce Nurses CARE Act,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"A pair of Pennsylvania elected officials on opposite sides of the aisle are teaming up for a bipartisan effort to bolster the workforce pipeline for essential healthcare workers.
On Monday, Reps. Fred Keller (R-Snyder) and Susan Wild (D-Lehigh) introduced the Nurses CARE Act, (H.R. 8874). The bipartisan legislation aims to prevent workforce shortages in long-term care facilities and allow America's essential healthcare workforce to do its important work uninterrupted.
According to a press release, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued Section 1135 waivers to provide states with greater flexibility to direct personnel and resources to patients in need, in response to COVID-19. Although the release touts this regulatory flexibility as being an essential tool in preventing health care shortages by employing Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) to offer care during the pandemic, it is set to expire when the national emergency declaration is lifted.
The Nurses CARE ACT works to build on the success of CMS's Section 1135 waivers and provide states with the necessary flexibility to ensure that competent TNAs who provided critical services during the pandemic can retain their certification after the national emergency declaration has expired.
The release also adds that this legislation would allow states and facilities to offer on-the-job experience as a partial substitute for certification courses, testing, and other evaluations, thus providing a pathway to full-time employment for TNAs who answered the call during the COVID-19 pandemic and have already received extensive on-the-job training.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much about how we deliver health care at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care centers, Keller said. We need to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable populations, like our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation that gives American families across our nation the peace of mind that their loved ones in long-term care are receiving the care they need to remain safe and healthy.
Throughout this entire pandemic, so many have selflessly joined the front lines in our nursing homes and long-term care facilities to get our most vulnerable through this health care crisisand they deserve their work and on-the-job training to be fully recognized, Wild said. I'm proud to join this bipartisan, commonsense effort to help prevent critical health care shortages or gaps in Pennsylvania and ensure those who answered the call in this emergency have a pathway for full-time employment once this pandemic ends.
The bill also has received praise from the head of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association.
Since the temporary nurse aide position was formally approved in the Commonwealth, more than 4,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the training program, and many have been hired to assist long-term care providers in their response to COVID-19, said Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association. This legislation not only recognizes the heroic and compassionate work these caregivers have performed since the pandemic began, but also puts them on a path to full-time employment as certified nurse aides.
We are grateful to both Congressman Keller and Congresswoman Wild for their bipartisan leadership and united approach in standing up for our long-term care providers and healthcare heroes on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania and throughout the country, Shamberg continued.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/oppose-section-230-big-tech-censorship,Injured corrections officer undergoes surgery to remove damaged eye,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Penitentiary at Allenwood corrections officer and Midd-West head wrestling coach Dale Franquet Jr. underwent surgery to remove an eye Wednesday, two days after he was assaulted by an inmate.
A second staff member was also injured in the inmate assault at the high-security prison Monday morning but neither the identity nor health condition of the officer were released by the Bureau of Prisons.
Dale Franquet Sr., of Orwigsburg, said the surgery to remove his son's injured eye went well at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, according to the younger Franquet's wife, Angela.
""There was no damage to the eye socket. In three months he could be fitted with a prosthetic,"" said Franquet Sr.
Shane Fausey, the national president of the Council of Prison Locals and an employee at the Allenwood prison complex, said the assaults ""are a stark reminder of the unpredictable and violent nature of the vital work the Bureau of Prisons correctional professionals do every day.""
While the details of the attacks are not being released pending an FBI investigation, Fausey added that the ""quick and decisive actions of both officers, even at the risk of their own personal safety, are nothing short of heroic and resulted in quickly bringing an end to a potentially deadly situation.""
U.S. Rep. Fred Keller expressed his hope for the injured officers' speedy recovery and echoed Fausey in saying on Twitter that the incident ""is a reminder of the challenging job that our corrections officers are tasked with.""
Franquet Sr. expects his son will rebound quickly.
""He's a tough individual and will be stronger for it,"" he said, recalling how at the age of 16 Dale Jr. wrestled in high school with a broken hand.
For several years Franquet Jr. has served as varsity head coach at Midd-West High School.
Assistant wrestling coach A.J. Steininger described him as being dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential.
""It's going to be tough"" starting the wrestling season without Franquet Jr., Steininger said. ""He's an integral part of our wrestling program.""
Franquet Jr. recently built a pole barn on his property for wrestling clinics and was scheduled to hold a grand opening on Saturday.
""Dale's biggest concern is the pole barn,"" Franquet Sr. said of the family's decision to postpone the opening until his son can participate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://kelly.house.gov/press-release/representative-kellys-statement-governor-wolfs-latest-pennsylvania-lockdown,Representative Kelly's Statement on Governor Wolf's Latest Pennsylvania Lockdown,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Representative Kelly's Statement on Governor Wolf's Latest Pennsylvania Lockdown                                           
              Dec 10, 2020      		        	    
      	            
                    
                                            
          
        
        
            
    
    
  
    
  
    
    
    Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-Pa.) released this statement following Governor Tom Wolf's latest lockdown of the Keystone State:
""Pennsylvanians have endured the coronavirus pandemic for nearly a year and are fully capable of determining what activities they are comfortableengaging in. Governor Wolf's latest order demonstrates that he does not trust us to make our own decisions. In mandating more business closures, he has guaranteed that more hard-working Pennsylvanians will lose their jobs as additional small businesses will close permanently. This is unacceptable and the governor should lift this lockdown immediately.""
#####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/lawmakers-negotiate-possibility-stimulus-checks-next-covid-19-relief-bill,Lawmakers negotiate possibility of stimulus checks in next COVID-19 relief bill,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Congress appears to be closer to bringing a COVID-19 relief bill to a vote in the House and Senate, but direct stimulus checks are, so far, absent from the compromise plan.
There's continued conversation around direct stimulus checks, which I think is important, Virginia Democratic Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger said.
Spanberger fears including direct payments in the bill could prevent the plan from crossing the finish line.
Finish line means a bill passed through the House and the Senate and signed on the president's desk so that we can ensure that extended unemployment, rent support, and food assistance among other things are delivered to the American people, Spanberger said.
Pennsylvania Republican Congressman Fred Keller says another round of $1,000 checks is not the answer.
This stimulus payment will run out. Once that's gone, what are they going to do next? Keller said.
Keller says instead, Congress needs to focus on jobs.
The best stimulus is a job. And what we need to do going forward is support our small businesses and our working families, Keller said.
Many Republican lawmakers say the us can't afford another round of direct payments.
For every penny that we spend is borrowed, Kentucky Republican Congressman Brett Guthrie said. That's hundreds of billions of dollars borrowed from our children and grandchildren.
If stimulus checks are not included in the compromise, some lawmakers say they will work on a standalone bill, although that would be unlikely to pass until after the first of the year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/reps-keller-and-wild-introduce-nurses-care-act-help-prevent-care-facility-worker,Reps. Keller and Wild introduce Nurses CARE Act to help prevent care facility worker shortages,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  On Dec. 7, Congressman Fred Keller (R-Pa.) and Congresswoman Susan Wild (D-Pa.) introduced House Resolution 8874, also called the Nurses CARE Act. The bipartisan proposal would help prevent workforce shortages in long-term care facilities.
In response to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued Section 1135 waivers to give states more flexibility to direct personnel and resources to patients in need. The waivers have allowed Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) to offer care during the pandemic, but it is set to expire when the national emergency declaration is lifted.
The Nurses CARE Act builds on the waivers, providing states with the necessary flexibility to let TNAs who provided critical services retain their certification after the national emergency declaration expires. In addition, states and facilities could offer on-the-job experience as a partial substitute for certification courses, exams, and other evaluations, allowing the aides who stepped up during the crisis a quicker path to full-time employment.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much about how we deliver health care at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care centers, Keller said. We need to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable populations, like our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation that gives American families across our nation the peace of mind that their loved ones in long-term care are receiving the care they need to remain safe and healthy.
Throughout this entire pandemic, so many have selflessly joined the front lines in our nursing homes and long-term care facilities to get our most vulnerable through this health care crisisand they deserve their work and on-the-job training to be fully recognized, Wild said. I'm proud to join this bipartisan, commonsense effort to help prevent critical health care shortages or gaps in Pennsylvania and ensure those who answered the call in this emergency have a pathway for full-time employment once this pandemic ends.
Since the temporary nurse aide position was formally approved in the Commonwealth, more than 4,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the training program, and many have been hired to assist long-term care providers in their response to COVID-19, said Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association.
This legislation not only recognizes the heroic and compassionate work these caregivers have performed since the pandemic began, but also puts them on a path to full-time employment as certified nurse aides. We are grateful to both Congressman Keller and Congresswoman Wild for their bipartisan leadership and united approach in standing up for our long-term care providers and healthcare heroes on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania and throughout the country.
The full text of the bill will be available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/new-house-ag-leaders-push-active-bipartisan-panel,"New House Ag leaders push for active, bipartisan panel",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Georgia Democrat and Pennsylvania Republican poised to take the reins of the House Agriculture Committee next year have shared priorities, including climate policy, but different timelines and approaches.
Reps.David Scott, D-Ga.,andGlenn GT Thompson, R-Pa.,were both selected by their respective caucuses as their party's House Ag leaders for the next two years. Scott  by virtue of a slim Democratic majority  will chair the committee, and Thompson will serve as the panel's top Republican. Both men indicate they wantcommittee members to continue to work in a bipartisan way across regional differences.
As I told Speaker Pelosi  I have served on the committee when we had Republican chairmen and we had Democratic chairmen, and I've achieved things on that committee underneath both, Scott said in an interview withAgri-Pulse. Agriculture has been and will be a bipartisan committee because we have a history of that; I have a history of that.
Our numbers will be as close as ever, Thompson said in a separate conversation withAgri-Pulse. Which I think is going to help us continue to work in the bipartisan way we do in agriculture.
The official committee rosters and party splits will be determined at a later date, but the committee's Democratic majority could be as slim as two or three votes. For Scott, the close divide shouldn't slow down anambitious agenda that includes action on climate change, disaster readiness, and  of course  preparation for the next farm bill.
Reflecting a top priority of President-elect Joe Biden, Scott said that climate change has got to be our top priority in this committee. He wants to bring in scientists and other expert witnesses to discuss the subject and help producers navigate the subject, but also to lower the temperature on what can often be a very heated debate.
Carbon sequestration, no-till farming, all of these things we've got to be able to have as part of the discussion, Scottsaid. We're going to have to bring that climate change issue away from all of this politicization  it is our farmers that are suffering.
Thompson also brought up climate change as a top priority of his, but one that he'll approach from the perspective of getting agricultural practices the recognition he feels they're due. He said he wants to avoid overregulation that can be""punishing"" to farms.He believes that grazing, responsible forest management, and other carbon-sequestering technologies that can come from agriculture need to be considered as part of the solution to the issue.
The reality is those things work, he said. They're not political solutions, they're practical solutions.
Scott also listed broadband deployment among his top priorities for the committee, as well as a desire to work with the Appropriations Committee to enact legislation that creates a response protocol and funding that can be used for future disasters. Thatidea,floated earlier this year by current House Ag Chair Collin Peterson, D-Minn., would allow USDA to fund disaster response for producers without an act of Congress and could potentially be funded through the department's Commodity Credit Corp. Peterson, who lost his reelection effort in November, had said such a protocol would have been among his top priorities in Congress.
The two new leaders both had kind remarks about the other  Scott called Thompson very thoughtful and very thorough, Thompson said Scott is a gentleman and a statesman  and both boast lengthy House Ag resumes. Scott also quipped about his Pennsylvania roots  he went to elementary school in Scranton  a surefire way, he said, to build a connection with Thompson.
Both chaired or served as ranking member to a handful of panel subcommittees, and both are veterans of several farm bills, experience that will serve them well as they begin to deliberate how to approach a lingering 2023 deadline when the current legislation will expire.
For Scott, he said he'd like to get my sea legs under me. He hearkened back to his days in the Georgia state Senate when he gained the reputation as a members' chairman for his style of soliciting member feedback before taking concrete action on a bill.
I want to make sure that I can articulate the ambitions and interest of the members of the committee, he said.
But Thompson says time is of the essence.
We need to make up for some lost time, he said, pointing to action that could have happened had the chamber been doing its regular work in Washington for much of 2020 rather than dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. We need good oversight. It's time to start hearing from USDA directly; hearing from farmers and ranchers, and folks within rural communities on what's working and what's not working with the 2018 farm bill.
One thing Scott already knows about the next farm bill is he wants to expand an $80 million scholarship program for historically Black colleges and universities he championed in the 2018 legislation. Those scholarships, given to agricultural students at 1890s land grant colleges, should be expanded to Hispanic and Native American institutions, he said.
The two new leaders are part of a group of House and Senate Agriculture Committee heads with three of four new faces (Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., will the only holdover from the last farm bill; Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., is set to be the Senate panel's top Republican). But both Scott and Thompson expect a solid working relationship with their Senate counterparts. They've both worked with Stabenow on previous farm bills, and Boozman is a former House colleague.
Thompson said he hopes rural and urban America will see results.
When we get the policy right on agriculture and for rural America, what that means is that every American family  including those in very large cities  won't wake up in the cold, dark, and hungry,"" Thompson said.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/inmate-transfers-fort-dix-resume-despite-lawmakers-objections-amid-covid,Inmate transfers to Fort Dix resume despite lawmakers' objections amid COVID,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"More local lawmakers are joining the call for the federal Bureau of Prisons to halt inmate transfers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
U.S. Reps. Andy Kim of New Jersey and Rep Fred Keller of Pennsylvania issued a joint statement on Friday calling for the end to all inmate transfers between BOP facilities during the current health crisis.
Both Kim and Keller represent districts home to BOP facilities  FCI Fort Dix in Kim's third legislative district, and FCI Allenwood in Keller's 12 legislative district.
Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system, the statement read.
Kim was part of an earlier delegation made up of New Jersey lawmakers who sent a letter to BOP Director Michael Carvajal outlining grave concerns over the COVID-19 outbreak at FCI Fort Dix, and asking BOP to extend a moratorium on inmate transfers to the low-security prison on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
The BOP issued at the beginning of November a moratorium on inmate transfers to the prison through Nov. 23 as the number of positive cases at the prison neared 250.
BOP officials said Friday the moratorium was not extended.
The 3,000 people at FCI Fort Dix live in units of up to 300 people, according to a complaint. FCI Fort Dix is a low-security federal correctional institution with an adjacent minimum-security satellite camp.  
	The congressmen were not happy with the decision.
It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country, Kim and Keller's statement read.
As of Monday, there are 103 active cases among inmates and 35 active cases among staff members, according to BOP data.
BOP reported 266 inmates and six staff members have recovered. No deaths have been reported.
Kim and Keller also echoed the New Jersey Congressional delegation's letter, calling for the BOP to publicly outline the steps it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities.
We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk, the joint statement read.
Lawmakers, advocates, inmates and their family members have pointed to the transfer of inmates from FCI Elkton in Ohio to FCI Fort Dix as the cause of the outbreak. BOP officials have denied the accusation.
All inmates entering or departing any BOP facility, to include voluntary surrenders, BOP-to-BOP transfers, or transfers from outside the BOP system, are screened and tested by medical staff for COVID-19 upon arrival, and placed in quarantine or medical isolation, a BOP spokesperson said Friday.
FCI Elkton was the site of one of the worst outbreaks in the country earlier this year; nearly 1,000 inmates have tested positive there since the outbreak began. 
Nearly 300 inmates from FCI Elkton were transferred to FCI Fort Dix to allow for more social distancing at the Ohio prison in a series of groups on Sept. 28, Oct. 6, Oct. 21, and Oct. 28.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/central-susquehanna-intermediate-unit-receives-federal-grant-offer-resources,"Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit receives federal grant, offer resources to families during COVID-19",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Milton, Pa.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded a $1,755,707 Head Start grant to Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit (CSIU) to support early childhood education and development initiatives as part of CSIU's Head Start and Early Head Start Programs in Northumberland county.
""We prepare our most vulnerable young children to succeed in school, and in life beyond school. Our services are at no cost, and are for children ages birth to 5 from low-income families, as well as pregnant women,"" said Jamie Bartlett Head Start/Early Head Start Programs Manager in Northumberland County.
The services offered focus on core areas of Early Learning and Development, Health, and Family Well-Being and CSIU provides transportation to the centers to ensure enrolled children and family members can regularly participate.
In Northumberland County, CSIU's programs have the following:
- Head Start has 168 federally funded and 72 HSSAP funded preschool children. We have 14 center-based classrooms.
- Early Head Start has 83 infants, toddlers and pregnant women. It is a home-based program providing weekly, 1.5 hours home visits.
- 90 percent of enrolled families live below the federal poverty level (2020 guidelines: $26,200 for a family of four).
- A minimum of 10 percent children enrolled are identified as special needs.
Congressman Fred Keller expressed his enthusiasm for CSIU after the grant was announced.
Now more than ever, we must ensure our children are not left behind. Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit plays a critical role in providing quality education to help our children thrive and I am confident that this grant will support its mission and expand its reach in our communities, said Keller.
The Head Start/Early Head Start Programs have done their best to continue providing their services virtually during COVID-19, but it hasn't been easy to connect with all the families, according to Bartlett.
Program staff have offered both synchronous and asynchronous classes through Google classroom and the Early Head Start leaders do their best to connect with families once a week to support parents and children. Staff members have even taken the time to drop-off educational materials to families so that learning can safely at home.
""Sometimes our children aren't able to join us virtually, our staff misses the in person contact with the children and families during virtual instruction,"" explained Bartlett.
""Our goal is to support our children and families at all times, especially during this pandemic. We work with families to make sure their family has their basic needs covered, and if needed connect them with resources in the community. During a time of uncertainty we want to be a consistent resource for them. Our staff are working hard to do this.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/congressmen-kim-and-keller-release-statement-covid-19-risks-bureau-prisons,Congressmen Kim and Keller Release Statement on COVID-19 Risks at Bureau of Prisons Facilities,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC  Today, Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) and Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) released the following statement on the continued increase of COVID-19 spread in Bureau of Prison (BOP) facilities across the country. Both Congressmen Kim and Keller represent districts that are home to BOP facilities.
The coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges for the federal prison system tasked with keeping inmates and correctional officers safe. However, it is clear that the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) COVID-19 response plan has been inadequate in containing outbreaks at a number of facilities across the country. Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system.
Despite the uptick in cases in certain facilities, the BOP continues to transfer inmates between facilities, in many cases transferring COVID-19 positive inmates into new facilities, exposing staff and other personnel to the virus. It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country.
The BOP must also clearly outline, and make public, the steps that it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities. We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk. We stand ready to work alongside the BOP to find common ground and solutions that will save lives.
Congressman Kim and Congressman Keller are members of the Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus, of which Congressman Keller is the founder and chairman.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/fred-keller-votes-no-marijuana-big-cats,"Fred Keller votes No on marijuana, big cats",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement Friday afternoon:
Instead of addressing the plight of millions of Americans across the country who are struggling during this pandemic, this week Speaker Pelosi decided to once again put politics over people and hold votes on legalizing marijuana and exotic animals instead of COVID relief measures. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to do their jobs and join House Republicans in delivering targeted relief to our families, businesses, and industries who need it the most.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/latest-covid-relief-framework-includes-billions-dollars-high-speed-broadband,Latest COVID relief framework includes billions of dollars for high-speed broadband,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The new COVID relief compromise is gaining traction on Capitol Hill and 10 billion dollars will pay for a public/private partnership to improve Americans' internet service
I say this as somebody who spent longer in the wireless industry than I have in politics. We can provide some of that much need relief, Virginia Democratic Senator Mark Warner said.
Warner says while there was money for broadband in the Cares Act, that's a potential short term solution.
He says the new money will help build lasting high-speed internet service for more Americans.
And one of the things we found is that broadband is now an economic necessity, Warner said.
Pennsylvania Republican Congressman Fred Keller agrees, the pandemic showcased the need for reliable internet access.
It takes care of education, it takes care of the delivery of healthcare, and it takes care of commerce, Keller said.
This is not just in rural communities. There are many suburban communities that have very slow internet or no internet, Warner said.
Both Warner and Keller agree this money will help provide high-speed broadband to millions of more Americans.
We need these things. And I'm all for making sure that we have the resources to adequately build out an infrastructure system in broadband, Keller said.
If Congress approves this plan, four billion dollars of the broadband fund would go to supporting connectivity to low-income households.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-introduces-bipartisan-bill-bolster-workforce-pipeline,Congressman Fred Keller introduces bipartisan bill to bolster workforce pipeline for essential healthcare workers,2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) joined Congresswoman Susan Wild (D-PA) in introducing H.R. 8874, the Nurses CARE Act, bipartisan legislation that would help prevent dangerous workforce shortages in long-term care facilities and allow America's essential healthcare workforce to do its important work uninterrupted.

In response to COVID-19, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued Section 1135 waivers to provide states with greater flexibility to direct personnel and resources to patients in need. While this regulatory flexibility has been an essential tool in preventing critical health care shortages by employing Temporary Nurse Aides (TNAs) to offer care during the pandemic, it is set to expire when the national emergency declaration is lifted.

The Nurses CARE Act works to build on the success of CMS's Section 1135 waivers and provide states with the necessary flexibility to ensure that competent TNAs who provided critical services during the pandemic can retain their certification after the national emergency declaration has expired. Additionally, this legislation would also allow states and facilities to offer on-the-job experience as a partial substitute for certification courses, testing, and other evaluationsthus providing a pathway to full-time employment for TNAs who answered the call during the COVID-19 pandemic and have already received extensive on-the-job training.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much about how we deliver health care at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and long-term care centers, Keller said. We need to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable populations, like our seniors and those with pre-existing conditions. I am proud of this bipartisan legislation that gives American families across our nation the peace of mind that their loved ones in long-term care are receiving the care they need to remain safe and healthy.

Throughout this entire pandemic, so many have selflessly joined the front lines in our nursing homes and long-term care facilities to get our most vulnerable through this health care crisisand they deserve their work and on-the-job training to be fully recognized, Wild said. I'm proud to join this bipartisan, commonsense effort to help prevent critical health care shortages or gaps in Pennsylvania and ensure those who answered the call in this emergency have a pathway for full-time employment once this pandemic ends.

Since the temporary nurse aide position was formally approved in the Commonwealth, more than 4,000 Pennsylvanians have completed the training program, and many have been hired to assist long-term care providers in their response to COVID-19, said Zach Shamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association. This legislation not only recognizes the heroic and compassionate work these caregivers have performed since the pandemic began, but also puts them on a path to full-time employment as certified nurse aides. We are grateful to both Congressman Keller and Congresswoman Wild for their bipartisan leadership and united approach in standing up for our long-term care providers and healthcare heroes on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Pennsylvania and throughout the country.

Full text of the bill is available here.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-honors-frontline-healthcare-workers-house-floo,Congressman Fred Keller honors frontline healthcare workers on House Floor,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) recently spoke on the House Floor to celebrate the valiant efforts of frontline healthcare workers in Pennsylvania's 12th Congressional District and across America, as they continue their dedicated service amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
During his remarks, Congressman Keller invoked the storied reverence of frontline workers, drawing a parallel between pandemic-era health care workers and the Americans who helped fuel wartime manufacturing efforts during World War II.
Following his floor remarks, Congressman Keller made the following statement:
The outstanding men and women who go to work every day in our hospitals and health networks are worthy of our utmost admiration and respect. Though their job is not easy, these individuals have persisted through truly demanding times and they continue to provide critical services to our region. And though they don't do it for recognition, they deserve recognition nonetheless. I am dedicated to continuing to support them and their noble work.
Congressman Keller's full remarks are below.
Madam/Mr. Speaker,

Throughout American history, generations of American frontline workers have answered the call of duty to support our nation, states, and local communities.

From those in the factories who fueled the Allied advance in World War Two, to the men and women who cleared the rubble after the attacks of September 11th, there is a storied reverence that comes with being a frontline worker.

Today, across Pennsylvania's 12th congressional district and America, our nurses, doctors, and health care providers are answering that call to duty.

In the face of a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic and global uncertainty, our health care professionals have not wavered in their mission, exemplifying compassion, determination, and resilience.

Most importantly, our health care workers have given our nation reassurance that there is light at the end of this tunnel, and we can beat this pandemic.

To our frontline healthcare workers at:

 Evangelical community hospital;
 UPMC;
 Geisinger;
 Endless Mountains;
 Bucktail Medical;
 Robert Packer;
 Guthrie Towanda Memorial;
 Troy Community;
 Divine Providence;
 Mount Nittany;
 Barnes-Kasson;
 And Tyler Memorial

I know your job is not easy, but your impact is felt throughout our community and across our nation.

Please know that we are forever grateful for your service.

Thank you, I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-fred-keller-votes-no-speaker-pelosi-s-out-touch-priorities,Congressman Fred Keller votes NO on Speaker Pelosis out-of-touch priorities,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  This week, Congressman Fred Keller (R-PA) voted against the MORE Act and the Big Cat Public Safety Act, legislation brought forth by Speaker Pelosiin the midst of a global pandemicthat aims to legalize marijuana and revise protections for exotic animals, respectively. The MORE Act passed the House by a vote of 228-164 while the Big Cat Public Safety Act passed by a vote of 272-114.

By contrast, House Democrats took no legislative action this week to join House Republicans in supporting H.R. 8265, legislation that would deliver the $138 billion in remaining Paycheck Protection Program funds to American families, small businesses, and workers.

In a video, Congressman Keller highlighted Speaker Pelosi's unwillingness to bring real relief to the American people and details how she instead chose to push trivial and nonurgent legislation through the House.

(Click to watch video)

Congressman Fred Keller made the following statement in response House Democrats' legislative priorities:

Instead of addressing the plight of millions of Americans across the country who are struggling during this pandemic, this week Speaker Pelosi decided to once again put politics over people and hold votes on legalizing marijuana and exotic animals instead of COVID relief measures. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to do their jobs and join House Republicans in delivering targeted relief to our families, businesses, and industries who need it the most.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-keller-and-kim-release-statement-covid-19-risks-bureau-prisons,Congressmen Keller and Kim release statement on COVID-19 risks at Bureau of Prisons facilities,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Fred Keller (PA-12) and Congressman Andy Kim (NJ-03) released the following statement on the continued increase of COVID-19 spread in Bureau of Prison (BOP) facilities across the country. Both Congressmen Keller and Kim represent districts that are home to BOP facilities.
The coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges for the federal prison system tasked with keeping inmates and correctional officers safe. However, it is clear that the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) COVID-19 response plan has been inadequate in containing outbreaks at a number of facilities across the country. Despite Members of Congress raising the alarm about the spread of the virus under its watch, BOP leadership has failed to effectively respond to growing outbreaks in the federal prison system.
Despite the uptick in cases in certain facilities, the BOP continues to transfer inmates between facilities, in many cases transferring COVID-19 positive inmates into new facilities, exposing staff and other personnel to the virus. It is irresponsible to continue to risk exposure through inmate transfers from various parts of the country. We firmly believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, all inmate transfers between BOP facilities should be halted in order to protect the health and well-being of inmates, as well as the thousands of BOP correctional officers across the country.
The BOP must also clearly outline, and make public, the steps that it will take to improve its response to outbreaks in its facilities. We have heard deep concerns from our constituents for the health and safety of their friends or family in federal prisons, or that serve as staff in the facilities. Every day that the BOP refuses to take action, is a day that more Americans are put at risk. We stand ready to work alongside the BOP to find common ground and solutions that will save lives.
Congressman Keller and Congressman Kim are members of the Bureau of Prisons Reform Caucus, of which Congressman Keller is the founder and chairman.
# # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/pa-congressman-gets-top-spot-house-ag-committee,Pa. Congressman gets top spot in House Ag Committee,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Pennsylvania Congressman Glenn GT Thompson was elected as the top Republican in the House Agriculture Committee.
Thompson was elected ranking member Dec. 2. The full House GOP Conference ratified the decision Dec. 3. He is succeeding the retiring Rep. Mike Conway (R-Texas).
The challenges ahead of us are considerable, but we will continue to put farm families first and ensure our country has the most safe and affordable food supply chain on the planet, said Thompson, who was elected in 2008.
National Milk Producers Federation and National Cattlemen's Beef Association put out statements in support of Thompson's new role in Congress and praised his track record of bipartisan legislative victories.
GT has been a vocal and effective advocate for the needs of dairy farmers in Pennsylvania and throughout the country, said Jim Mulhern, National Milk Producers Federation president, in a statement.
Thompson served as chairman of the conservation and nutrition subcommittees during the writing of the last two farm bills. Most recently he's been the ranking member of the general farm commodities and risk management subcommittee.
His district is the state's geographically largest congressional district, in north western and north central Pennsylvania. It covers portions of Armstrong, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Forest, Indiana, Jefferson, McKean, Venango and Warren counties.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/thompson-lead-agriculture-committee,Thompson to lead agriculture committee,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Howard Township, has been elected by the House Republican Steering Committee to serve as GOP leader of the House Agriculture Committee in the 117th Congress.


	As a lifelong resident of a small town in rural central Pennsylvania and the descendant of a long line of dairy farmers, I am incredibly humbled to have been elected by my Republican colleagues, Thompson said Wednesday.


	Thompson, also known as GT, represents Indiana, Armstrong, Clearfield, Jefferson and all or part of Cambria and nine other counties in the 15th Congressional District.


	The challenges ahead of us are considerable, but we will continue to put farm families first and ensure our country has the most safe and affordable food supply chain on the planet, Thompson said.


	Overall, he has served in Congress since 2009, from the old Fifth Congressional District, and in November was easily chosen for a second term in Indiana County and other areas moved by state Supreme Court order into a reapportioned 15th District.


	Thompson said he was very appreciative of the vote of confidence he received, as he became the most senior Republican on the House Agriculture Committee and second most senior Republican on the House Education and Labor Committee.


	On election night he pledged to continue to work closely with the Indiana County Farm Bureau, saying, my goal is really to become a part of the communities I serve.


	Among key issues listed on his website is rural development, or, as he writes: Creating jobs and expanding technology, such as broadband and cellphone coverage, is a major challenge that must be met in order to improve and sustain rural Pennsylvania.


	As he expanded upon that in answering questions from the Gazette during the recent election campaign, COVID-19 has shown those of us living in more rural settings the importance of high-speed internet connectivity, for businesses and homes.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/thompson-lead-republican-caucus-us-house-agriculture-committee,Thompson to lead Republican caucus of U.S. House Agriculture Committee,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Earlier this week, Rep. Glenn GT Thompsonwas elected by the Republican Steering Committee to serve asRepublican leader of the House Agriculture Committee, replacing Rep. Mike Conaway of Texas, whom he worked under as vice ranking member in the current Congress.
Thompson is a familiar face to farmers and ag leaders in Pennsylvania. His district covers a big swath of north-central Pennsylvania, just east of Erie and west of Williamsport, going south to Altoona, and he is a familiar face at many agricultural events in the state, including the Pennsylvania Farm Show and Ag Progress Days.
He's been an advocate for forestry-related programs, especially when it comes to the farm bill, and he has been an outspoken supporter of getting whole milk back in schools.Earlier this week, Rep. Glenn GT Thompsonwas elected by the Republican Steering Committee to serve asRepublican leader of the House Agriculture Committee, replacing Rep. Mike Conaway of Texas, whom he worked under as vice ranking member in the current Congress.
Thompson will be leading the committee's Republican coalition, which he says will likely have four openings for new members when the 117th Congress gets sworn in next month. He says that he's worked with incoming committee Chairman DavidScott on two previous farm bills and calls him someone he can work with. Thompson says that he intends to work across the aisle when it comes to pushing agricultural legislation.
With very few exceptions, every bill I introduce is bipartisan,"" he says. ""I reach across the aisle. That's my style with committee work as well.""
Thompson says that he recently spoke to Rep.-elect August Pfluger of Texas, who told him that the No. 1 requested committee assignment by incoming freshman representatives is agriculture.
He also says the committee will be focused on passing mandatory livestock price reporting legislation, working to expand domestic and foreign markets, passing bills to make agriculture more resilient in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, and expanding rural broadband.Incoming representatives will have a lot to learn with work on the upcoming 2022 Farm Bill likely kicking into high gear in 2021. Thompson says that virtual listening sessions on the next farm bill have already been held in home districts and that live in-person listening sessions could be held in spring if the COVID-19 vaccine helps to reduce cases.
It is time for full and complete connectivity in rural America,"" Thompson says. ""We need to take a laser-focused approach to connectivity. COVID has made this apparent.""",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://keller.house.gov/media/in-the-news/western-pa-congressmen-join-rebuke-us-attorney-general-william-barr,Western Pa. congressmen join rebuke of U.S. Attorney General William Barr,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Fred Keller,K000395,keller.house.gov,,,legacy,"A bloc of 39 congressmen  including five Pennsylvania Republicans who were reelected Nov. 3  lashed out at Attorney General William Barr in a letter expressing dismay at the shocking lack of action stemming from the Justice Department's investigation of allegations of fraud in the election.
The letter was posted the same day Barr announced that Justice Department investigators had uncovered no evidence of fraud that would change the outcome of the election.
To date, we have not seen fraud on a scale that could have affected a different outcome in the election, Barr told The Associated Press.
U.S. Reps. John Joyce, R-Blair County, and Guy Reschenthaler, R-Peters Township were among those who urged Barr to take a closer look at what they claim are election irregularities. Both are staunch supporters of President Trump who appeared on stage with the president at campaign rallies in Western Pennsylvania.
Neither Joyce nor Reschenthaler responded to requests to detail what they believe threw the Pennsylvania election into question.
Tuesday's announcement from Barr, who previously warned of the potential for fraud in widespread mail-in balloting, left many of the president's supporters stunned.
The congressmen joined Trump and his attorney, Rudy Giuliani, in discounting Barr's findings.
The president continues to claim he won and has repeated unfounded claims of widespread fraud and sweeping conspiracies to steal the election.
Like Joyce and Reschenthaler, Pennsylvania Republican Reps. Fred Keller, R-Snyder, Scott Perry, R-York, and Dan Meuser, R-Luzerne, signed off on the letter. All five of them were re-elected as Trump suffered an 81,000 vote defeat to Democrat Joe Biden in Pennsylvania.
There are a number of anomalies, statistical improbabilities and accusations of fraud that bring the election results in several states into question, the congressmen wrote. Affidavits of irregularities in the voting and tabulation processes have been sworn in a number of jurisdictions. Threats of retribution by leftist groups with a history of violence have been made against election officials and attorneys for President Trump. And a number of last-minute changes in balloting and counting requirements raise questions about the overall integrity of federal elections.
Although Pennsylvania Republicans have reported receiving numerous allegations of election irregularities, federal courts here have dismissed the Trump campaign's legal challenges to the election as lacking in evidence.
Free, fair elections are the lifeblood of our democracy. Charges of unfairness are serious. But calling an election unfair does not make it so, Judge Stephanos Bibas, a Trump appointee to the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, wrote in the Nov. 27 ruling that rejected the campaign's most recent appeal in Pennsylvania. Charges require specific allegations and then proof. We have neither here.
Many of the allegations in Pennsylvania referred to issues with dates and signatures on mail-in ballots and complaints from poll watchers that they were not given adequate access to the count.
At a hearing in Gettysburg last week, Giuliani conflated primary election reports with general election returns to falsely claim Pennsylvania officials had counted 700,000 more mail-in ballots than they distributed. Sidney Powell, a lawyer for the Trump campaign who has since been dismissed, alleged voting systems were flipping votes.
Barr said Tuesday his office had looked into claims such as those Powell voiced.
There's been one assertion that would be systemic fraud and that would be the claim that machines were programmed essentially to skew the election results. And the (Department of Homeland Security) and DOJ have looked into that, and so far, we haven't seen anything to substantiate that, he said.
Nonetheless, the president's supporters continue to maintain their attacks on the election.
Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Butler, did not sign Tuesday's letter, but is continuing his own attack on the outcome of the election in Pennsylvania.
Kelly, the lead plaintiff in a suit seeking to have Pennsylvania's expansive 2019 mail-in ballot law ruled unconstitutional, is seeking a hearing before the U.S. Supreme Court.
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court shot down the complaint Saturday and dismissed a lower court ruling halting the certification of the vote here. In its ruling, the state high court said the challenge was filed long after the expiration date for such challenges, and the plaintiffs had failed to prove a single ballot fraudulent.
In a new appeal filed Wednesday, Kelly asked the state Supreme Court to reinstate the lower court's stay on election certification, pending the U.S. Supreme Court's decision whether to hear his appeal.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/climate-trade-top-gop-pick-thompson-s-farm-panel-priorities,"Climate, Trade Top GOP Pick Thompsons Farm Panel Priorities",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Glenn GT Thompsonwill serve as the top Republican on the House Agriculture Committee next year, the party conference announced.
Thompson will succeed ranking memberMike Conaway(Texas) following his retirement. The Republican steering committee recommended the Pennsylvania lawmaker over Reps.Austin Scott(Ga.) andRick Crawford(Ark.), who were also vying for the position.
His selection will help solidify Republican priorities for the panel next year, as the chairmanship remains in flux after current leaderCollin Peterson(D-Minn.)'s election loss.
Thompson's roots in dairy farming help him understand what needs to be done to take America's agriculture industry to the next level, and he knows the needs of the hard working Americans who will get us there, the GOP conference's Thursday announcement said.
 Thompson's Priorities 
Thompson, who is heading into his seventh congressional term, has previously served as the committee's vice chairman and ranking member of three subcommittees.
The Republican conference announcement pointed to his commitment to speaking up as one of his best leadership skills, making him the most frequent speaker on the House floor for the past seven years.
In his new role, Thompson pledged to restore a robust rural economy, help develop precision agriculture, identify climate solutions through voluntary conservation, and expand agricultural market opportunities with strong trade deals.
Farmers and ranchers also need a stronger safety net to mitigate weather-related disasters, such as Southern agriculture producers' losses during hurricanes and Iowa farmers' crops flattened by an August derecho, he said.
There's no other committee that probably touches the lives more frequently in a day's time of the American family than the Agriculture Committee, Thompson said in an interview before the November election.
Thompson highlighted his ability to work with his Democratic colleagues, having served as a co-sponsor on several of Peterson's bills, such as assistance for meat processors (H.R. 7490) and whole milk for students (H.R. 832).
DemocratsDavid Scott(Ga.) andJim Costa(Calif.) are vying to succeed Peterson.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/house-gop-selects-several-new-ranking-members-next-congress,House GOP selects several new ranking members for next Congress,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) announced Thursday that the GOP caucus has selected several new ranking members for the incoming Congress, including Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (Wash.) for the Energy and Commerce Committee.


	Other leading committee Republicans who will be new to their posts include Reps. Glenn Thompson (Pa.) for Agriculture; Mike Rogers (Ala.) for Armed Services; Jason T. Smith (Mo.) for Budget; Bruce Westerman (Ark.) for Natural Resources; Blaine Luetkemeyer (Mo.) for Small Business; and Mike Bost (Ill.) for Veterans Affairs.


	The top Republicans on other committees will remain the same as in the current Congress.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/pennsylvanias-glenn-thompson-lead-us-house-ag-republicans,Pennsylvania's Glenn Thompson to Lead U.S. House Ag Republicans,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-Pa., was elected Wednesday to be the Republican leader of the House Agriculture Committee for the 2021-2022 term.
The challenges ahead of us are considerable, but we will continue to put farm families first and ensure our country has the most safe and affordable food supply chain on the planet, saidThompson, who represents a heavily forested but sparsely populated swath of Pennsylvania stretching from Centre County to Venango County and the New York border.
Since entering Congress in 2009, Thompson has spoken effusively about farmers. In recent years he has led efforts to return whole milk to the School Lunch Program.
Thompson's ascension to Ag Committee leadership is somewhat unusual. The posts often go to lawmakers from Western states. Thompson, known as G.T., was chosen by the Republican Steering Committee.
The committee's current ranking member, Texas Rep.Mike Conaway, is retiring.
The Democrats, who will maintain control of the House next session, have not announced the next Ag Committee chairman.
The incumbent, Rep.Collin Petersonof Minnesota, was defeated in November's election, and one of the most senior members of the committee, Rep.Marcia Fudgeof Ohio, is being discussed for U.S. ag secretary.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z