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.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/icymi-senate-passes-five-alaska-bills,ICYMI: Senate Passes Five Alaska Bills,2024-12-31,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=9,scraper,"Anchorage, AK— In case you missed it, five Alaska-related bills passed the Senate by unanimous consent during the final week of the current 118th Congress. The Senate passed these measures on a standalone basis after a package of public lands measures prepared by the Energy and Natural Resources Committee was not included in a year-end vehicle such as the Continuing Resolution.

The Senate passed the following measures by unanimous consent:

S. 623, a bill to amend the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) to exclude certain payments to aged, blind, or disabled Alaska Natives or their descendants from being used to determine eligibility for certain programs, and for other purposes. Sponsored by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK).

S. 2615, the Alaska Native Village Municipal Lands Restoration Act. Sponsored by Senators Murkowski and Sullivan. This legislation would sunset the requirement for village corporations to reconvey lands for municipal uses under Section 14(c)(3) of ANCSA.

S. 3617, the Cape Fox Land Entitlement Finalization Act. Sponsored by Senators Murkowski and Sullivan. This bill would waive an existing statutory requirement that compels Cape Fox Corporation, an Alaska Native Corporation for the Village of Saxman, to use a portion of its entitlement under ANCSA for remote parcels that have no economic value to the corporation. Instead, the bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to Cape Fox the surface estate to a 180-acre tract in the Tongass National Forest that was unavailable to the corporation under the original terms of ANCSA.

S. 3790, the Alaska Native Vietnam Era Veterans Land Allotment Extension Act. Sponsored by Senators Sullivan and Murkowski. Thislegislation would make lands identified in 2020 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFS) eligible for conveyance, as was promised to our Alaska Native Vietnam Veterans. The legislation would also require USFS to identify additional lands for selection and conveyance to eligible veterans.

S. 4974, a bill to amend the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to reauthorize the National Volcano Early Warning and Monitoring System, and for other purposes. Sponsored by Senators Murkowski, Sullivan, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

While none of these bills will become law before the end of the 118th Congress, their passage provides positive momentum going into the new year. Senator Murkowski expressed her “hope and optimism” that both the House and the Senate could advance these non-controversial measures into law relatively early in the next Congress.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/2024/12/for-immediate-release-december-31-2024-contact-kiersten-pels-press-ronjohnson-senate-gov-video-release-sen-johnson-joins-bret-weinstein-on-the-darkhorse-podcast-calls-out-corruption-in-covid-policies-washington-on-sunday-u-s-sen-ron-johnson-r-wis-joined-bret-weinstein-on-t,"*** VIDEO RELEASE *** Sen. Johnson Joins Bret Weinstein on the DarkHorse Podcast, Calls Out Corruption in COVID Policies",2024-12-31,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WI,Ron Johnson,J000293,www.ronjohnson.senate.gov,ronjohnson,https://www.ronjohnson.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – On Sunday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined Bret Weinstein on the DarkHorse Podcast to address the corruption and capture of our federal health agencies. They discussed RFK Jr.’s nomination for HHS Secretary and what he can do in the upcoming Trump administration to improve transparency and hold Big Pharma accountable.

Sen. Johnson asserted that he will put Dr. Anthony Fauci “on notice,” … “I want [Fauci] fully exposed,” the senator said.

Watch the full discussion here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-scott-2024-year-in-review/,Senator Scott 2024 Year in Review,2024-12-31,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released his 2024 year in review, highlighting his work on behalf of the people of South Carolina and efforts to advance his Opportunity Agenda across the country.

“I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished this year on behalf of South Carolinians, and I look forward to tackling all the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead next year. My mission is to positively affect the lives of a billion people with a message of hope and opportunity. Every American deserves the chance to achieve their version of the American Dream, and I will continue fighting each day to make that opportunity a reality,” said Senator Scott.

This year, Senator Scott introduced 42 bills, 9 resolutions, and 16 amendments.

South Carolina

The Senator and his team assisted more than 6,000 South Carolinians with casework requests.

Strengthening a direct line of communication with constituents remained a priority for the Senator and allowed him to send over 26,000 letters to South Carolinians in 2024.

Thousands of communities across South Carolina and neighboring southeastern states have worked hard to recover from Hurricane Helene and Milton. Senator Scott pushed for Congress to demonstrate leadership and help ease the pain of those who have lost everything. That’s why he championed a bill to replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program, providing essential assistance to families and small businesses as they continue their recovery. Additionally, Senator Scott led legislation to replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s FEMA Disaster Relief Fund (DRF), which works to assist individuals, households, states, and non-federal government entities with recovery following a natural disaster. As part of an end-of-year government funding package, Senator Scott helped secure $29 billion for the DRF and $2.25 billion for the SBA Disaster Loan Program.

American Energy and Infrastructure

In an effort to restore American energy dominance and independence, Senator Scott introduced the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2024 in January to eliminate the requirement for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to authorize the export of of American liquefied natural gas (LNG) and give the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) sole authority over the approval process. In February, the House version of this bill, led by Representative August Pfluger, was passed 224 — 200.

Senator Scott recognizes the importance of pursuing local solutions for local problems that will promote targeted developments to improve infrastructure in both urban and rural communities. To that end, the Senator teamed up with Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Representative Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) in a letter to Secretary Buttigieg at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) expressing support for a grant for the SC Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to replace a critical bridge over Lake Marion.

Additionally, the Senator sent a letter to DOT in July, asking for the prompt review of the SCDOT proposal for the Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant for Long Point Road and I-526.

Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs

As the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Senator Scott led his Republican colleagues on the committee to advance pro-growth policies to support communities across the country.

Senator Scott introduced the ROAD to Housing Act to pave the way for more affordable housing opportunities and ensure our federal housing regulators are accountable to the taxpayers they serve. Senator Scott also put forward capital markets legislation, the Empowering Main Street in America Act, that will increase access to capital for entrepreneurs in every corner of our nation and allow more Americans to invest in their local communities. And as the scourge of fentanyl plagues too many communities, Congress successfully passed—and the president signed into law—Senator Scott’s FEND Off Fentanyl Act to target the illicit fentanyl trade and the illegal money laundering operations supporting this devastating criminal enterprise.

Senator Scott also used his position as the top Republican on the committee to conduct rigorous oversight over the Biden-Harris administration’s progressive agenda and rulemaking. From the Federal Reserve’s Basel III Endgame proposal, to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s climate disclosure rule, to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s mislabeling of legitimate payment incentives, Senator Scott pushed back on rules and regulations that would stifle economic opportunity.

Senator Scott’s longstanding efforts to hold the Biden-Harris administration accountable for its appeasement of Iran resulted in a critical reporting requirement from his Revoke Iranian Funding Act being signed into law, ensuring Congress has the information on Iran sanctions it needs to provide oversight of the Biden-Harris administration and take action against the Iranian regime.

To see a full list of Senator Scott’s accomplishments during his second year as the Republican leader of the Senate Banking Committee, click here.

Education

Throughout his time in public service, Senator Scott has worked to broaden quality educational opportunities for all, regardless of race, zip code, or background.

The Senator recognizes the positive strides charter schools have made to shape education in South Carolina and around the nation, and help the next generation achieve their American Dream. To recognize their positive impact, Senator Scott introduced a resolution congratulating the students, parents, teachers, and leaders of charter schools across the country during the 25th Annual National Charter Schools Week. In May, the Senate agreed to this resolution, celebrating the work of charter schools in helping students succeed in the classroom and beyond.

If students are fearing for their safety on campus, they cannot focus on receiving a quality education. Through his Antisemitism Awareness Act, a bill that changes the definition of antisemitism the U.S. Department of Education uses when investigating antisemitic acts on college campuses, Senator Scott is focused on protecting the rights of Jewish students on college campuses across America.

Healthcare

Everyone in the Palmetto State—regardless of race, background, or zip-code—deserves access to high-quality healthcare. Throughout the year, Senator Scott championed legislation designed to make American healthcare more accessible, patient-centered, and affordable.

Sickle cell disease continues to affect thousands of Americans, oftentimes those without access to specialized care. His Sickle Cell Disease and Other Heritable Blood Disorders Research, Surveillance, Prevention, and Treatment Act of 2023, which reauthorizes the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program until Fiscal Year 2028, makes strides in ensuring those affected have access to the treatment they need to manage their healthcare. This legislation passed in the House of Representatives.

Senator Scott also led four resolutions—National Poison Prevention Week, National Minority Health Month, National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month—all of which unanimously passed. The passage of these resolutions reaffirms Senator Scott’s commitment to seeking out legislation that will help create a healthier, stronger nation.

Senator Scott recognizes the impact of the Medicare Advantage program and the health coverage it provides to over 32 million seniors and individuals with disabilities. When Washington bureaucrats threatened American seniors’ coverage access and choices, Senator Scott led a bipartisan letter to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) encouraging the agency to continue to support and strengthen the Medicare Advantage program. Sixty-one senators signed onto the letter, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho).

Restoring Law and Order

Senator Scott has consistently worked to foster growth, investment, and economic opportunity both domestically and globally, which begins by restoring law and order.

As part of this effort, the Senator introduced the COACHES Act, Laken Riley Act, Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act, Protect Our Presidents Act, and Build the Wall Act of 2024, and supported the SAVE Act and Protect and Serve Act of 2024.

National Security and Foreign Affairs

Throughout his time as a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the Senator has championed policies to strengthen U.S. national security, support our allies, and push back on our adversaries.

It’s been more than a year since Iranian-proxy Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, and Senator Scott continues to stand by our greatest ally in the Middle East, introducing a resolution that reiterates Israel’s right to self-defense and condemning recent statements from U.S. lawmakers, which interfere in Israel’s sovereign electoral process.

Following reports indicating that the Palestinian Authority (PA) would attempt to downgrade Israel’s status at the United Nations (UN), Senator Scott joined Ranking Member Jim Risch (R-Idaho) in introducing the Stand with Israel Act, a bill to cut off U.S. funding to UN agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend, or otherwise restrict the participation of the State of Israel. Additionally, the Senator introduced the Maintaining Our Ironclad Commitment to Israel’s Security Act, which provides congressional oversight of proposed changes to arms sales to Israel. Senator Scott is vocal about his unequivocal support for Israel and its right to self-defense, as demonstrated in his letter to the editor in The Wall Street Journal and letter to the Biden-Harris administration.

We cannot say we support our allies while we fail to protect them against their enemies. Senator Scott sponsored and introduced the Preventing Terrorism at the U.N. Act of 2024, which would prohibit the United States from voluntarily contributing to the United Nations. More specifically, this legislation cuts off all funding to the UN until the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is permanently shuttered and the Secretary of State can certify that no UN employees in UNRWA’s current jurisdiction support terrorism. Additionally, the Senator introduced the No Bystanders at the United Nations Human Rights Council Act of 2024 to withhold certain UN funding until the United Nations Human Rights Council mandates a body to investigate human rights abuses in the People’s Republic of China.

To further these efforts, Senator Scott introduced the Indian Ocean Region Strategic Review Act of 2024, which strengthens the role of the United States military in the Indian Ocean region.

Senator Scott is taking proactive steps to prevent our national securities agencies from doing business with companies that are linked to the Chinese Communist Party and the People’s Liberation Army. He introduced the Blocking Bad Batteries Act, prohibiting the US. Department of State from procuring batteries produced by certain Chinese government-linked companies.

Through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, Senator Scott secured the passage of several important initiatives for South Carolina, such as:

$33 million for an Aeromedical Evacuation Facility at Joint Base Charleston (USAF Reserve)

$72.05 million for new Ambulatory Care Clinic (Dental) at Parris Island (Navy/USMC)

$31.5 million for a new Fuel Pier at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort (Navy/USMC)

$75.33 million for Plutonium Pit Production at the Savannah River Site (SRS) (DOE/NNSA)

$1.2 billion for the SRS Plutonium Process Facility (DOE/NNSA)

$400.54 million for the SRS Risk Management Operations (DOE/NNSA)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.tuberville.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-tuberville-honors-alabama-veterans-of-the-month-for-2024/,ICYMI: Tuberville Honors Alabama Veterans of the Month for 2024,2024-12-31,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Tommy Tuberville,T000278,www.tuberville.senate.gov,tuberville,https://www.tuberville.senate.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Nominations now being accepted for 2025 “Veteran of the Month” Series

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) recognized the twelve Alabama veterans he honored during the 2024 Alabama “Veteran of the Month” series. Senator Tuberville began this series in 2023 to show his appreciation for Alabama veterans for their service to our military and Alabama’s local communities.

“Alabama is home to more than 400,000 veterans who bravely answered the call to defend our country,” said Senator Tuberville. “Even though they’re no longer in uniform, they still serve our local communities in remarkable ways. I’ve enjoyed listening to the unique ways that Alabama’s veterans are giving back to their communities. Their efforts make our state a better place to call home. I look forward to continuing to share the stories of Alabama’s heroes in the upcoming year.”

Alabama veterans honored in Senator Tuberville’s 2024 “Veteran of the Month” series are:

January: Maggie Amadei of Enterprise, AL

February: Lloyd Michael Austin of Mobile, AL

March: Earle Thompson of Lake Martin, AL

April: Scott Croisant of Florence, AL

May: Chesca Barnett of Brierfield, AL

June: Alvin Lynch of Muscle Shoals, AL

July: Wayne Davenport of Trussville, AL

August: Kevin Harkey of Huntsville, AL

September: Jerry Wheat of Wetumpka, AL

October: John Vick of Andalusia, AL

November: Patrick Jump of Robertsdale, AL

December: Claudia Wigglesworth of Daleville, AL

Senator Tuberville recognizes a different Alabama veteran each month for their service and contribution to their community. Constituents can nominate an Alabama veteran and submit their information to Senator Tuberville’s office for consideration in the 2025 “Veteran of the Month” series by emailing press_office@tuberville.senate.gov.

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1178,"Congressman Kennedy Unveils SNOW Act, Legislation to Help Communities Prepare for and Recover from Extreme Snowstorms",2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Legislation Would Help Communities In Western New York, And Other Snow Impacted Regions, Prepare For And Recover From Extreme Snowstorms By Updating FEMA’s Guidelines For Winter Storm Assistance

Kennedy: “We can’t afford to do nothing. The cost is too great.”

Today, Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) announced legislation, the Support Neighborhoods Offset Winter Damage (SNOW) Act, to update the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) disaster assistance policies to better help communities prepare for and recover from snowstorms.

“Time and again, our communities in Western New York have faced severe snowstorms without the federal support needed to respond. The Christmas Blizzard of 2022 is the latest example of how damaging and deadly snowstorms can be and it’s time for the federal government to step up,” said Congressman Kennedy. “That’s why I’ve written the SNOW Act, legislation requiring FEMA to treat catastrophic blizzards the same as any other natural disaster. This bill will help local governments across the country prepare for, respond to, and recover from extreme snowstorms. We can’t afford to do nothing. The cost is too great.”

""This legislation is crucial for updating FEMA's policies to allow for important federal support to be readily available to local governments impacted by significant winter weather events,"" said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. ""We know here in Erie County the importance of being able to access federal funding before, during and after a major snowstorm or blizzard. I thank Congressman Kennedy for his leadership and vision in providing protection against future catastrophic weather events.""

The Buffalo Blizzard of 2022, the deadliest on record, showed that FEMA’s snow assistance policy is outdated, limited in scope, and prevents communities from adequately preparing for, responding to, and recovering from catastrophic snowstorms. Congressman Kennedy’s SNOW Act would bring extreme snowstorms on par with other emergencies and natural disasters in order to access federal assistance. Specifically, the legislation would:

Update storm severity threshold to unlock federal funding: FEMA requires record snowfall to qualify for disaster assistance. This bill would update FEMA’s guidelines for approving assistance by incorporating damages, wind speed, wind chill, and the affected area’s real median household income.

Provide access to snow removal equipment: This bill would add snow removal equipment to FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program which provides proactive investment in resilience for communities.

Help state and local governments recover from storms: FEMA only provides snow assistance for emergency protective measures. This bill would provide assistance to include debris removal, and work on roads, bridges, water control facilities, public buildings, public utilities, public parks, and other facilities.

Provide financial assistance to impacted individuals: This bill would expand assistance to individuals when the cost of a snowstorm exceeds the ability of the state to respond or recover.

Increase the federal cost share: To better support disadvantaged and rural communities, this bill would increase the federal cost share from 75% federal and 25% state/local to 90% federal and 10% state/local. This would include all communities in New York’s 26th Congressional District, including

Support for the SNOW Act:

""As a city and region that has endured some of the most severe snowstorms in recent memory, including the devastating Christmas Blizzard of 2022, we know all too well the significant challenges these events bring,"" said City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon. ""Congressman Kennedy’s SNOW Act addresses the need for FEMA policies that recognize the increasing frequency and impact of extreme winter weather that targets our city and region. By elevating devastating snowstorms that affect Western New York into the same response framework as other natural disasters across the country, the SNOW Act ensures our region will receive the support it needs and deserves.""

“This region must do all it can to support efforts by Congressman Kennedy and our other federal elected officials to obtain federal resources for local municipalities following winter weather events, that, if those concerned about climate change are correct, will become more frequent,” said Town of Tonawanda Supervisor Joe Emminger. “The 2022 Christmas storm that hammered this region and stole more than 40 lives, left ruin in its wake for families, homeowners, renters and businesses. Winter Storm events need to be recognized similar to how Atlantic Hurricane events are recognized; not by record snowfalls but rather by the financial impact that they have on our local communities.”

""The SNOW Act would help towns like Cheektowaga deal with the impacts of unpredictable snow disasters that dump feet of snow, cause power outages, downed trees, and the need for help to make roads passable in a timely manner,” said Cheektowaga Town Supervisor Brian Nowak. “We cannot afford to have the vehicles of first responders stuck in the roads preventing police, fire, and EMS responding to scenes.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-announces-new-committee-assignments-for-119th-congress/,Cornyn Announces New Committee Assignments for 119th Congress,2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement announcing that he will serve as a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Budget Committees during the 119th Congress, in addition to the three committees on which he currently serves:

“For the past four years, the Biden-Harris administration has diminished America’s standing on the world’s stage and spent hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars on partisan spending sprees. I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues and President Trump to restore respect for America across the globe and tackle our growing national debt, and I am honored to be a voice for Texans in these new roles.”

In addition to joining the Senate Foreign Relations and Budget Committees, Sen. Cornyn will continue to serve as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, the Senate Finance Committee, and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence in the 119th Congress, which is set to begin on January 3, 2025.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2024/12/30/daines-commends-designation-of-marc-fogel-as-wrongfully-detained-demands-immediate-release/,"Daines Commends Designation of Marc Fogel as “Wrongfully Detained,” Demands Immediate Release",2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fogel, A Schoolteacher, Has Montana Ties

U.S. Senator Steve Daines today commended the U.S. State Department for finally heeding his calls to designate U.S. citizen Marc Fogel as “wrongfully detained” by the Russian government and renewed his demand for Fogel to be immediately released. Fogel has family in Montana and is currently serving a 12-year sentence of hard labor in a Russian prison for possession of marijuana.

“Marc Fogel just spent his fourth Christmas serving an unjust 14-year sentence of hard labor in a Russian prison because he was ‘convicted’ of outrageous drug trafficking charges,” said Daines. “The State Department finally acknowledged what we have always known: that Marc’s arrest was politically motivated and President Biden should have immediately designated him as wrongfully detained in 2021. He should be released immediately.”

Background:

Daines will serve on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the 119th Congress, which will be sworn in Friday.

The designation of “wrongfully detained” means Fogel’s case will now be transferred to the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the State Department.

Senator Daines introduced a bipartisan resolution demanding Russia release Fogel.

Daines also called for Fogel’s release on the Senate floor in July 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2024/12/30/daines-helps-montanans-recover-nearly-5-million-dollars-from-federal-government-in-2024/,Daines Helps Montanans Recover Nearly $5 Million Dollars From Federal Government in 2024,2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Staff Closed Hundreds of Cases, Attended Over 2,000 Meetings in Montana

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that his staff helped return nearly $5 million from the federal government to Montanans in 2024 and closed hundreds of cases.

“Addressing the needs of Montanans is one of the greatest honors of my life and one of the reasons I ran for office. I’m proud of our dedicated team, whose commitment to constituents has paid off quite literally. We’ll always put Montanans first and fight for our great state,” said Daines.

In 2024, Daines’ office recovered $4,983,420 from the federal government to send back to Montanans. Over 90 percent of that money was recovered from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Specifically, Montanans received the following from federal agencies:

$4,687,576 from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

$220,764 from the Social Security Administration (SSA)

$38,974 from the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB)

$29,106 from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)

$4,348 from Veterans Affairs (VA)

$1,372 from Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

$1,280 from United States Postal Service (USPS)

In addition to recovering money for hardworking Montanans, Daines’ office worked on nearly 1,000 casework messages from constituents and closed 534 cases, including nearly a quarter of veterans-related cases. Daines’ staff also attended over 2,000 meetings and events in Montana on behalf of Senator Daines in 2024.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2024/12/sen-rick-scott-and-sen-jacky-rosen-applaud-passage-of-bill-to-hold-corrupt-politicians-accountable-and-protect-taxpayer-dollars,Sen. Rick Scott and Sen. Jacky Rosen Applaud Passage of Bill to Hold Corrupt Politicians Accountable and Protect Taxpayer Dollars,2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Rick Scott and Jacky Rosen applauded their No Congressionally Obligated Recurring Revenue Used As Pensions to Incarcerated Officials Now (No CORRUPTION) Act being signed into law. The law closes a loophole that has allowed former members of Congress to continue to receive a taxpayer-funded pension during their appeals process after being convicted of certain felonies related to their time in office.

Senator Rick Scott said, “I am incredibly proud to see our No CORRUPTION Act become law. If you are a Member of Congress and convicted of a crime involving public corruption you should lose all pension benefits provided to you by taxpayers and hardworking families—period. Making Washington work for American families requires real reforms that end the current dysfunction. We must never stop working to hold elected officials accountable and protect taxpayers’ hard-earned money.”

Senator Jacky Rosen said, “Nevadans elected me to the Senate to stand up to corruption and protect their taxpayer dollars from abuse. That’s why I worked across the aisle with Senator Scott to close the loophole allowing politicians convicted of corruption to continue collecting taxpayer-funded pensions. I’m proud to see our bill become law, and I’ll keep working across the aisle to clean up Washington.”

Demian Brady, Vice President of Research at the National Taxpayers Union Foundation said, “The reform in Senators Jacky Rosen’s and Rick Scott’s No CORRUPTION Act is a win for taxpayers. The commonsense bipartisan legislation closes a loophole in federal law that allows former members of Congress convicted of a crime to still collect a taxpayer-funded pension. We commend Senators Rosen and Scott for their leadership on this good government bill.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=2848A50E-E47C-4AE3-9EBF-68122D83A7BC,Congressional Leadership Announces President Carter to Lie in State,2024-12-30,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — As the nation mourns the passing of President Jimmy Carter, Senate Majority Leader-elect Thune, Speaker Johnson, Senate Democratic Leader Schumer, and House Democratic Leader Jeffries sent a letter to President Carter’s son James Carter III and the Carter Center announcing their intent for the 39th President to lie in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol.

President Carter’s remains will lie in state from the afternoon of January 7 to the morning of January 9. The Capitol will be open to the public during designated times for those who wish to pay their respects to President Carter.

Read the letter below:

Dear Mr. Carter,

On behalf of the United States Congress and the American people, we write to express our sincerest condolences to you on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter.

In recognition of President Carter’s long and distinguished service to the nation, it is our intention to ask the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate to permit his remains lie in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol.

With your approval, we will move forward with these arrangements so that the American people have the opportunity to pay their respects to President Carter before he is laid to rest.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-statement-on-passing-of-president-jimmy-carter/,Cornyn Statement on Passing of President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement after the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:

“As a naval officer, Georgia state senator, governor, and President of the United States, Jimmy Carter served our nation with honor,” said Sen. Cornyn. “His love for his home state of Georgia and for those he served through his beloved Maranatha Baptist Church and charities like Habitat for Humanity was evident throughout his life, and his legacy will remain a cherished part of our great American story. My prayers are with the entire Carter family during this time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-the-death-of-former-president-jimmy-carter,Crapo Statement on the Death of Former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued this statement following news that former President James “Jimmy” Carter died December 29, 2024:

“President Jimmy Carter lived a life of public service that demonstrated an unquestionable dedication and love of his country. He was an influential leader both inside the Oval Office and out. His service to the U.S. Navy and his philanthropy within his various communities will always be remembered. I join with Idahoans in sending my condolences to the entire Carter family, and am certain Jimmy and Rosalynn are rejoicing together in their reunion.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-statement-on-passing-of-jimmy-carter,Sen. Cruz Statement on Passing of Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:

""Heidi and I are saddened by the passing of President Jimmy Carter. At age 100, President Carter was the oldest former president in history, and he left a legacy of honorable military and public service. His decades-long dedication to building homes for those in need was truly remarkable. Our hearts and prayers are with the Carter family during this difficult time. We pray for peace and comfort for his loved ones as they mourn his loss, and take solace in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Rosalynn.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=5F2D6DE5-0C90-4979-ADCB-CF5CEB8DA1B5,Fischer Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter:

“Throughout his long life, President Carter served his country and his fellow man. He showed his love for others through many actions — serving in the Navy, as our 39th President, teaching Sunday School, and most memorably as a home builder for Habitat for Humanity. Bruce and I extend our deepest condolences to his family,”said Senator Fischer.

Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=B9BD204C-4E97-48B9-9929-98376DECEEA2,Senator Graham on the Passing of President Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement on the passing of 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter.

“President Carter lived a full, incredible and consequential life. He will be remembered for his decency and his humanitarian efforts as much as any legislative accomplishment.

“He achieved major Middle East reconciliation during his presidency and proved once again that coming from humble roots in one of the most rural areas of America is no barrier to becoming president and living out big dreams.

“As a committed Christian, he has now rejoined the love of his life, Rosalynn. May he rest in peace.”

####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=3593F4B6-5B9F-4DB8-A270-C6C7146492D4,President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,KY,Mitch McConnell,M000355,www.mcconnell.senate.gov,mcconnell,https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"LOUISVILLE, KY — U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement regarding the death of the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter:

“Elaine and I join the Senate and the nation in mourning the passing of our 39th president, Jimmy Carter.

“President Carter lived a truly American dream. A devoutly religious peanut farmer from small-town Georgia volunteered to serve his country in uniform. He found himself manning cutting-edge submarines hundreds of feet beneath the ocean. He returned home and saved the family farm before feeling drawn to a different sort of public service. And less than 15 years after his first campaign for the state Senate, his fellow Americans elected him leader of the free world.

“Jimmy Carter’s character and commitment, just like his crops, were fruits of all-American soil. After every season when life led him to lofty service far from home, he came back home again, determined to plow his unique experiences and influence into helping others; into building and teaching and volunteering; into further enriching the same rich soil that had made his own life possible.

“President Carter served during times of tension and uncertainty, both at home and abroad. But his calm spirit and deep faith seemed unshakeable. Jimmy Carter served as our commander-in-chief for four years, but he served as the beloved, unassuming Sunday school teacher at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia for forty. And his humble devotion leaves us little doubt which of those two important roles he prized the most.

“As Jimmy Carter is reunited with his beloved Rosalynn, our thoughts and prayers are with their children, Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and the millions of Americans whose lives were touched by his service. We join them in mourning, but also in celebrating that Jimmy Carter is now reaping an eternal harvest in Heaven.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-statement-on-death-of-jimmy-carter/,Ricketts Statement on Death of Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement on the death of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States:

“Jimmy Carter’s life was marked by faith, family, and service. He defended our country as a member of the U.S. Navy. He served as our 39th president. After leaving office, he faithfully taught Sunday school and advocated for human rights around the world. His 77-year marriage to Rosalynn Carter modeled love and dedication. Susanne and I send our condolences to the Carter family as they grieve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/sen-scott-statement-on-president-carters-passing/,Sen. Scott Statement on President Carter’s Passing,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Tim Scott,S001184,www.scott.senate.gov,timscott,https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/jsf/jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) issued the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:

“President Carter’s public witness of his faith was a blessing to his family, the church, and our country. His legacy as a Sunday school teacher, faithful husband to his bride, and a man of deep Christian conviction in private and in public service will inspire Americans for generations to come. May his memory be a blessing to his family and our nation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=8B3234CC-0FAD-40F1-AE8B-31211DE29401,Thune Statement on Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,thune,https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"“Today we mourn the passing of a dedicated public servant and man of faith, former President Jimmy Carter.”

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today released the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter:

“Today we mourn the passing of a dedicated public servant and man of faith, former President Jimmy Carter,” said Thune. “President Carter dedicated his life to serving the people of Georgia and our great country – as a naval officer, a governor, and as the 39th President of the United States. From peanut farming to the presidency and every step in between, his wife Rosalynn was by his side. Kimberley and I are praying for the Carter family, and we are comforted by the fact that Jimmy and Rosalynn are together again.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=70FC6608-BE27-412F-978B-1674D72A9E50,McConnell Comments on the Passing of Pat Crowley,2024-12-28,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,KY,Mitch McConnell,M000355,www.mcconnell.senate.gov,mcconnell,https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding the passing of Pat Crowley:

“I was saddened to hear about the passing of one of Kentucky’s finest political journalists, Pat Crowley. Over a long and distinguished career, Pat’s work in the Commonwealth drew wide attention and well-earned national acclaim. Over the years, I enjoyed getting to know Pat and reading his characteristically well-reasoned coverage of important news. Elaine and I will remember Pat fondly, and we send our condolences to his wife, his daughter and son, and his grandchildren.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-shares-2024-policy-oversight-achievements,"Grassley Shares 2024 Policy, Oversight Achievements",2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today released an overview of his 2024 legislative and oversight work for Iowans.

“Serving the people of Iowa is an honor I take very seriously. My constant mission is to advocate for our great state, while making the government more accountable and transparent.

“In the New Year, I’ll hit the ground running to advance legislative efforts to secure the border, lower the price of prescription drugs, pass a five-year Farm Bill and curb wasteful spending. Congress has a long to-do list. I encourage Iowans to keep in touch and share their views with me while I work on your behalf,” Grassley said.

Read Grassley's 2024 Year in Review:

Download PDF

Contents:

Welcome

HIStory

Keeping in Touch with Iowans

Farm Bill Priorities

Keeping Foreign Adversaries Off U.S. Farmland

Expanding Overseas Markets

Iowa Leads the Way

Year Round E15

Wind Energy

Iowa Ethanol

Sky-High Possibilities

Investing in Iowa

Airports

Railroads

Roads and Bridges

Clean Water

Budget and the Economy

A Costly Cover-Up

“Transparency Brings Accountability”

It’s the Budget Committee, Not the Climate Committee

Health Care

A Dose of Sunshine

Pro-Family, Pro-Mother, Pro-Life

Supporting Rural Pharmacies

Fighting the Opioid Epidemic

Grassley Backs the Blue

Bad Actors and U.S. Planes

The History of the Juvenile Justice Program

Protecting Kids Online

Grassley Holds Big Tech’s Feet to the Fire

Immigration

The First Job of Government

Leading the Charge to Protect Unaccompanied Migrant Kids

Peace Through Strength

Watchdog for Veterans

A Record Year

Protecting Patients

Supporting Crime Victims

Defending Whistleblowers

Cleaning Up Government Waste and Abuse

Did You Know?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/president-signs-lummis-mullin-bill-to-designate-the-bald-eagle-as-the-national-bird/,"President Signs Lummis, Mullin Bill to Designate the Bald Eagle as the National Bird",2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, President Joe Biden signed legislation introduced by Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to designate the bald eagle as the National Bird of the United States.

“The bald eagle is an enduring symbol of American freedom and values, and I am thrilled it is finally getting the recognition it deserves as our official national bird,” said Lummis.

“The bald eagle has long been a symbol of freedom and patriotism for our nation,”said Mullin. “It’s only fitting we officially designate the bald eagle the national bird of the United States. I’m happy to see this signed into law by the president and was happy to work in a bipartisan fashion to get it to his desk.”

Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN) cosponsored the legislation. Reps. Brad Finstad (R-MN), Angie Craig (D-MN), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Tom Emmer (R-MN), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and Don Beyer (D-VA) introduced the House companion bill.

The bald eagle has proudly been depicted as the national symbol of the United States since June 20, 1782, when our country’s Founding Fathers at the Second Continental Congress approved the Great Seal of the United States. Since that time, the bald eagle has appeared on official documents, currency, flags, public buildings, sports teams and other government-related items. Today, the bald eagle is synonymous with American life and this legislation will officially designate it as the National Bird of the United States.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-statement-on-justices-decision-to-complete-his-term-as-governor,Capito Statement on Justice’s Decision to Complete his Term as Governor,2024-12-26,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released the below statement following Governor Jim Justice’s (R-W.Va.) decision to delay his swearing in to the United States Senate and complete his term as governor:

“I very much respect Governor Justice’s decision to honor his commitment to complete his term as Governor of the State of West Virginia. I am looking forward to serving with Senator Justice as there is much to do to advance President Trump’s agenda on behalf of all West Virginians.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-help-prevent-child-abuse-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Help Prevent Child Abuse Signed into Law",2024-12-26,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) released the following statements after their Jenna Quinn Law, which would allow current grant funds to be used to train and educate students, teachers, caregivers, and other adults who work with children in a professional or volunteer capacity on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse, was signed into law earlier this week. The bill is named for Jenna Quinn, a Texan and child abuse survivor, and is modeled after successful reforms passed by the Texas Legislature in 2009.

“Inspired by Texan Jenna Quinn, our landmark legislation modeled after successful reforms in Texas will ensure every student, teacher, and caregiver across the country has the tools to recognize and prevent abuse of vulnerable children,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law is years in the making, and I want to thank the bill’s namesake, Jenna Quinn, Representatives Moran and McCaul, and all of my colleagues in Congress for their support.”

“Members of both parties are united in our mission to find additional ways to keep children safe from sexual abuse,” said Sen. Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure that parents, teachers, and other community members receive evidence-based training to help protect children from sexual abuse.”

“Every child deserves protection from abuse. Ensuring all adults, teachers, and caregivers are equipped with the knowledge to identify, prevent, and report child sexual abuse is a necessary and life-saving mechanism,” said Sen. Luján. “Jenna’s Law is implemented across several states – including New Mexico – and should be federally recognized. I’m proud that this legislation was signed into law, bringing us one step closer to providing funding to train and educate students, teachers, and parents on best practices to prevent and report abuse.”

Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN) also cosponsored this legislation, and Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Susan Wild (PA-07) led the legislation in the House.

Background:

Jenna Quinn has been an outspoken advocate for survivors of child sexual abuse and was the driving force behind what is now known as Jenna’s Law in Texas. Unanimously passed by the Texas Legislature, Jenna’s Law was the first child sexual abuse prevention law in the U.S. that mandates K-12 trainings for students and school staff and was amended in 2017 to include sex trafficking prevention education in schools. More than half of all states have adopted a form of Jenna’s Law.

After Jenna’s Law passed in Texas in 2009, a study found educators reported child sexual abuse at a rate almost four times greater after training than during their pre-training career. The Jenna Quinn Law will:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-hassan-welcome-enactment-their-bill-benefit-guard-reserve-students,"HYDE-SMITH, HASSAN WELCOME ENACTMENT OF THEIR BILL TO BENEFIT GUARD, RESERVE STUDENTS",2024-12-26,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"FY2025 Defense Policy Bill Includes Bipartisan ‘SERVE Act’ to Guarantee College Readmission for Guard, Reservists

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) today welcomed the enactment of major defense policy legislation that includes their bipartisan bill to ensure that students who serve in the National Guard and Reserve will be guaranteed readmission to their schools following a mobilization.

The bipartisan Servicemember Enrollment and Readmission for Valuable Education (SERVE) Act (S.2076) was included in the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (HR.5009), which was signed into law on Monday. The SERVE Act amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to ensure that students called to serve in domestic, short-term National Guard and Reserve mobilizations can return to their studies.

“Many Guard and Reserve mobilizations last fewer than 30 days, putting numerous students who have volunteered to serve our nation at risk of having their educational pursuits derailed,” Senator Hyde-Smith said. “I’m pleased the FY2025 NDAA includes an overdue fix to this problem.”

“Students in the Reserves and the National Guard sacrifice to serve their communities and our country, and they shouldn’t have to jeopardize their spot in school because they were called to duty,” said Senator Hassan. “I am pleased that the latest national defense bill provides a measure that will ensure that student National Guard and Reserve members who are mobilized for short missions will have the security of knowing that their spot in school will be waiting for them.”

The SERVE Act removes a “more than 30 days” stipulation in current law that only requires readmission for student servicemembers who are mobilized for more than 30 days. Under existing law, National Guard and Reserve members mobilized for fewer than 30 days are not universally entitled to be promptly readmitted.

Hyde-Smith introduced the SERVE Act with Hassan in June 2023. U.S. Representatives Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) and Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.) were the lead sponsors of a House companion bill.

The overall FY2025 NDAA establishes policies and sets funding guidelines for the FY2025 Defense Appropriations Bill that will actually allocate funds for Department of Defense activities. The overall bill also authorizes a 14.5 percent pay increase for junior enlisted troops, a 4.5 percent across-the-board pay raise for all other service members, and broadens access to child care for service members.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/human-trafficking/blackburn-cornyn-klobuchar-colleagues-bill-to-improve-investigations-of-online-child-exploitation-signed-into-law,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Klobuchar, Colleagues’ Bill to Improve Investigations of Online Child Exploitation Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statements after their Project Safe Childhood Act, which would make improvements to the investigation and prosecution of online child exploitation, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“It is our duty to protect the most innocent among us: our nation’s children,” said Senator Blackburn. “Kids need more protections in this rapidly increasing digital age, and the Project Safe Childhood Act will modernize how we investigate and prosecute online child predators by giving state and local law enforcement the federal support and training they need.”

“No child should be exposed to vicious threats from online predators,” said Senator Cornyn. “This law will make key strategic improvements to give law enforcement officers and federal prosecutors the tools to go after online child predators and ensure more children are shielded from this horrific crime.”

“We must do everything we can to protect our children from online exploitation and abuse,” said Senator Klobuchar. “By modernizing the Project Safe Childhood program, our bipartisan legislation will ensure that law enforcement has the tools and resources it needs to rescue victims and prosecute those who commit these terrible crimes.”

“Too many young lives have been lost or destroyed by online sexual abuse,” said Senator Grassley. “By empowering local law enforcement and federal prosecutors to take down online predators, we can protect vulnerable kids and bring criminals to justice.”

“The Project Safe Childhood Act takes a major step forward in the fight to protect children from the horrendous crime of online sexual exploitation,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Safeguarding our nation’s children from such abhorrent abuse is urgent and imperative, and this critical legislation empowers law enforcement to combat these serious dangers and hold predators accountable. I’ve long championed efforts to better protect children in an increasingly online society, and I look forward to swift action from the President.”

Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-wishes-west-virginians-a-merry-christmas-,VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Merry Christmas,2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"**Click here or the image above to watch the video.**

**Click here to download the video.**

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today issued a video message wishing West Virginians a Merry Christmas.

Full video transcript included below:

“Merry Christmas, West Virginia. This is the season of peace, joy, and hope—a time to celebrate the blessings of the great state we get to call home. As you gather with family and loved ones, I encourage you to reflect with gratitude on the many gifts in our lives.

“Among these gifts is the privilege of being born in the freest and most prosperous nation on Earth. Let us honor the sacrifices that make freedom possible—especially those of the brave West Virginians in uniform who spend the holidays far from home.

“We also need to thank our first responders, law enforcement officers, and medical professionals who will be giving up their time with their families to keep our communities healthy and safe.

“This holiday season, make sure to cherish our neighbors and give thanks, and may we carry the warm spirit of Christmas into the New Year. I, for one, look forward to serving you and working to build a brighter future for every West Virginian.

“From my family to yours, have a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bills-to-enhance-u-s-defense-procurement-capabilities-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Bills to Enhance U.S. Defense Procurement Capabilities Signed into Law,2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after two of his bills to enhance U.S. defense procurement capabilities, the Capability-Based Trade and Unconventional Resource Engagement (CAPTURE) Act and the Encouraging Qualitative Upgrades and Innovative Procurements (EQUIP) Act, were signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“For America to effectively confront the evolving threats around the globe, our military must be modern and nimble,” said Sen. Cornyn. “These bills will enhance and expand our defense procurement capabilities to ensure we can answer the call at a moment’s notice, and I’m glad to see them signed into law.”

Background:

The Capability-Based Trade and Unconventional Resource Engagement (CAPTURE) Act creates a pilot project permitting contracting officers to use an alternative capability-based analysis to determine whether the proposed price or fee for a commercial product or service offered by a nontraditional defense contractor is fair and reasonable, giving them more flexibility to choose the most cost-effective options regardless of contractor.

The Encouraging Qualitative Upgrades and Innovative Procurements (EQUIP) Act permits the use of the Defense Modernization Fund as a source of funding to procure and integrate commercial technologies to satisfy a joint urgent operational need or validated service requirement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cruz-bill-to-expand-service-members-access-to-health-care-information-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Cruz Bill to Expand Service Members’ Access to Health Care Information Signed Into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) released the following statements after their Private Smither Act, which would require the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide a health care provider’s affiliation in a patient’s medical record, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“Private Second Class Caleb Smither’s life and service to our country was sadly cut short, and my hope is that this law will help us prevent similar tragedies in the future,” said Sen. Cornyn.“Now law,this legislation will ensure our service members have access to key health care information and hold DoD-contract health care providers accountable for the quality of care they provide.”

“Private Caleb Smither, from Lubbock, Texas, was a proud Paratrooper of the 82nd Airborne Division who served faithfully until his life was cut short by preventable circumstances,” said Sen. Cruz. “Caleb’s mother, Heather Baker, has advocated for greater transparency concerning military medical malpractice, and this bill honors Caleb’s service and Heather’s advocacy in ensuring that transparency. We owe it to Caleb, and all the brave men and women of the armed forces to prioritize their safety, and I am proud to see the Private Smither Act signed into law.”

Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives in July.

Background:

In 2020, Texan and Army Private Second Class (PV2) Caleb Smither, who was stationed at Fort Bragg, now Fort Liberty, passed away after enduring a head injury and receiving medical care from an independent contractor at the base’s Womack Army Medical Center.

The Private Smither Act requires the DoD to include a health care provider’s affiliation (DoD or non-DoD) in a patient’s medical record. By including this information in a patient’s medical record, the patient will know whether or not to pursue a claim against the military or the non-personal services contractor’s medical malpractice insurance in the event of medical malpractice.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-hassan-bill-to-improve-contractor-services-along-southern-border-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Hassan Bill to Improve Contractor Services Along Southern Border Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statements after their DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which requires the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Under Secretary for Management to deliver a report assessing contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those services, was signed into law:

“As a founding member of the Senate DOGE Caucus, I’m interested in any and every opportunity to streamline government processes, including at our southern border,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will identify new ways to better protect taxpayer dollars and support our Border Patrol agents, CBP officers, and other personnel who work tirelessly to safeguard Texans.”

“We need to continue working across the aisle to strengthen border security,” said Sen. Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation is one additional way to better achieve that mission, and I am pleased that the President has signed it into law. It will help ensure that the Department of Homeland Security and its contractors are operating as effectively as possible at the border.”

U.S. Representatives Josh Brecheen (OK-02) and Mark Green (TN-07) led companion legislation in the House.

Background:

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General has previously reported instances when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) failed to timely contract for adequate facilities to detain illegal migrants and provide medical services.

This law will mitigate instances similar to those by requiring the DHS Under Secretary for Management to assess contracts valued at a minimum of $50 million for services performed by contractor personnel along the southern border. DHS would also be required to develop a strategy and implementation plan to improve procurement and delivery of services. As part of the analysis, DHS is required to consider the impact of contracts on the ability of Border Patrol agents to carry out their primary mission responsibilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-klobuchar-colleagues-bill-to-improve-investigations-of-online-child-exploitation-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Klobuchar, Colleagues’ Bill to Improve Investigations of Online Child Exploitation Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) released the following statements after their Project Safe Childhood Act, which would make improvements to the investigation and prosecution of online child exploitation, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“No child should be exposed to vicious threats from online predators,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will make key strategic improvements to give law enforcement officers and federal prosecutors the tools to go after online child predators and ensure more children are shielded from this horrific crime.”

“We must do everything we can to protect our children from online exploitation and abuse,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “By modernizing the Project Safe Childhood program, our bipartisan legislation will ensure that law enforcement has the tools and resources it needs to rescue victims and prosecute those who commit these terrible crimes.”

“Too many young lives have been lost or destroyed by online sexual abuse,” said Sen. Grassley. “By empowering local law enforcement and federal prosecutors to take down online predators, we can protect vulnerable kids and bring criminals to justice.”

“The Project Safe Childhood Act takes a major step forward in the fight to protect children from the horrendous crime of online sexual exploitation,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Safeguarding our nation’s children from such abhorrent abuse is urgent and imperative, and this critical legislation empowers law enforcement to combat these serious dangers and hold predators accountable. I’ve long championed efforts to better protect children in an increasingly online society, and I look forward to swift action from the President.”

“It is our duty to protect the most innocent among us: our nation’s children,” said Sen. Blackburn. “Kids need more protections in this rapidly increasing digital age, and the Project Safe Childhood Act will modernize how we investigate and prosecute online child predators by giving state and local law enforcement the federal support and training they need.”

Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Peter Welch (D-VT), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), and James Lankford (R-OK) cosponsored this legislation.

Background:

Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The Project Safe Childhood Act would modernize the investigation and prosecution of online child exploitation crimes and would make improvements to how federal prosecutors and law enforcement work together and use new technology to go after predators. This bill would require federal prosecutors and the DOJ to coordinate with law enforcement and experts to develop training materials and strategies to identify and rescue child victims while quickly arresting offenders.

The legislation is endorsed by the National District Attorneys Association, National Association of Police Organizations, Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Center on Sexual Exploitation, Fraternal Order of Police, Rights 4 Girls, National Children’s Alliance, and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-ossoff-lankford-sinema-bill-to-enhance-law-enforcements-fentanyl-detection-capabilities-now-law/,"Cornyn, Ossoff, Lankford, Sinema Bill to Enhance Law Enforcement’s Fentanyl Detection Capabilities Now Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), and James Lankford (R-OK) released the following statements after their Detection Equipment and Technology Evaluation to Counter the Threat of (DETECT) Fentanyl and Xylazine Act, which authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct research and development, testing, and evaluation on equipment that would help law enforcement better detect fentanyl and other drugs, was signed into law:

“Fentanyl is a silent killer that lurks in the shadows of our communities,and we must assist law enforcement in rooting it out to stop the loss of more innocent lives,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will ensure our brave men and women in uniform have every available tool to safely identify these deadly drugs and help put a stop to this devastating epidemic.”

“Illegal fentanyl trafficking is devastating Georgia families and putting our kids at risk,”said Sen. Ossoff. “We brought Republicans and Democrats together to pass our bill into law that will strengthen detection and prevention of fentanyl trafficking.”

“For anyone outside of the Washington, DC beltway, there is no doubt that the border is in chaos,” said Sen. Lankford. “Besides a record number of illegal border crossers being released into the country with no idea who they are, where they are from, or where they are going, the crisis has also resulted in massive amounts of fentanyl coming into our country, which has been deadly to many communities across the US. Sadly, Oklahoma is no stranger to the terrible impact of fentanyl. We are calling on DHS to stop illegal immigration and develop a new way to detect, stop, and investigate fentanyl trafficking into the US. This is one step in stopping the chaos, but one that will have a huge impact on our communities and families.”

U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) is a cosponsor of this legislation. U.S. Representatives Nick LaLota (NY-01), Lou Correa (CA-46), and Don Davis (NC-01) led companion legislation in the House.

Background:

Established in 2003, the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is the research and development arm of DHS tasked with providing evidence-based scientific and technical expertise to inform policies that address a broad spectrum of current and emerging threats, from sexual abuse to natural disasters to narcotics. S&T has an opioid detection research program, but it is not explicitly set up by law.

The DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act will:

Create a new statutory responsibility for S&T to carry out, in coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), research, development, testing, evaluation, and cost-benefit analysis to improve the safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of drug detection equipment and reference libraries used by federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to identify unknown substances;

Establish three focus areas with flexibility to adopt other focuses in the future:

Portable detection equipment that requires only minimal handling of sample;

Equipment that can separate complex mixtures with low concentrations of drugs and high concentrations of cutting agents into component parts to enable detection; and

Technologies that use AI and machine learning to predict whether a substance is a controlled substance analogue or other new psychoactive substance not yet included in a reference library.

Require S&T to follow the recommendations, guidelines, and best practices set out in the federal government’s Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework; and

Direct S&T to look to the DEA’s State and Territory Report on Enduring and Emerging Threats and the DHS’s Homeland Threat Assessment in establishing priorities.

The DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act is endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations, National Border Patrol Council, National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, National HIDTA Directors Association, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Sergeants Benevolent NYPD, National Treasury Employees Union, and Shatterpoof.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-padilla-bill-to-safeguard-veterans-access-to-quality-education-now-law/,"Cornyn, Padilla Bill to Safeguard Veterans’ Access to Quality Education Now Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) released the following statements after their Isakson-Roe Education Oversight Expansion Act, which would improve the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) oversight capabilities to ensure veterans can access quality education at reputable institutions, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“Our veterans deserve to put their hard-earned education benefits toward degrees and certifications from trustworthy institutions,” said Sen. Cornyn.“This law will help the VA root out fraud among schools and ensure veterans have access to quality education.”

“Veterans should have access to their hard-earned GI Bill benefits without fear of exploitation,” said Sen. Padilla. “This bipartisan legislation becoming law is an important step toward that mission, and I will keep fighting to break down the barriers to quality higher education access.”

U.S. Representatives Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) and Mike Levin (CA-49) led companion legislation in the House.

Background:

Through the G.I. Bill, many veterans earn education benefits to help pay for college, graduate school, and vocational training at institutions approved by the VA. Given the number of educational institutions, however, the VA is not always aware of those that are engaged in deceptive practices or have been subjected to punitive action by a state or federal authority. This can result in veterans using their benefits at bad-actor schools or those in jeopardy of losing accreditation.

To help mitigate fraud and ensure veterans use their benefits at reputable schools, the Isakson-Roe Education Oversight Expansion Act will require all VA-approved institutions to report within 30 days any adverse actions taken against them to the State Approving Agencies (SAA) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-padilla-wicker-bill-to-bolster-solid-rocket-motor-supply-chain-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Padilla, Wicker Bill to Bolster Solid Rocket Motor Supply Chain Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), along with Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-MS), released the following statements after their Solid Propulsion Enhancement and Advancement for Readiness (SPEAR) Act, which would help secure and stabilize the domestic supply chain of solid rocket motors commonly used in missiles and rockets, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“State-of-the-art solid rocket motors are critical to America’s defense industrial base, and I’m glad our legislation to ensure their continued production on U.S. soil is now law,” said Sen. Cornyn.

“Solid rocket motors are key to America’s national defense, and we must increase domestic production to address growing demand for hypersonic technology,” said Sen. Padilla. “California is a leader in the hypersonic industry, and I’m glad to see this legislation signed into law.”

“For years, over a dozen solid rocket motor producers, including many new, innovative companies, have struggled to move quickly because of Pentagon planning instability and lack of conviction,” said Sen. Wicker. “The SPEAR Act requires the Pentagon to begin reversing this trend through a roadmap for future manufacturing of SRMs. We need to put our defense industrial base on a wartime footing, and I am grateful to have partnered with Senator Cornyn on legislation that moves us in the right direction.”

Background:

Solid rocket motors (SRM) are key components of missiles and rockets’ propulsion capabilities. The Solid Propulsion Enhancement and Advancement for Readiness (SPEAR) Act directs the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to conduct a study and compile a report to Congress on ways to secure and stabilize industrial SRM production capacity, resiliency, and surge capability for the next five years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-peters-webster-carbajal-bill-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-at-ports-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Peters, Webster, Carbajal Bill to Strengthen Cybersecurity at Ports Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Gary Peters (D-MI) and U.S. Representative Daniel Webster (FL-11) released the following statements after their Protecting Investments in Our Ports Act, which will ensure that all applicants for competitive grant funding from the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) may only purchase secure digital infrastructure or secure software components and applicants must certify they have a security plan addressing cyber risks, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“As technology continues to advance and global tensions rise, we must take steps to address the growing threat posed by adversaries looking to access sensitive information or disrupt supply chains at our ports,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will mitigate the risk of cyber-espionage by foreign countries and help ensure the digital infrastructure and technology at our ports is secure.”

“Our shipping ports play a crucial role in building resilient supply chains, supporting economic growth, and strengthening our national security. We must do everything we can to protect our port infrastructure from cybersecurity threats,” said Sen. Peters. “This law will incentivize our ports to put the appropriate guardrails in place to protect against cyberattacks, helping to improve the security and efficiency of operations.”

“We must ensure our seaports have the resources and are taking the steps necessary to counter threats posed by the introduction of new software and digital infrastructure,” said Rep. Webster. “This critical measure will help insulate port operations against any potential attacks by those wishing to disrupt our supply chains.”

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24) is a cosponsor of this legislation in the House.

Background:

Chinese-made cranes operating at American ports across the country, including several at strategic ports used by the military, have embedded technology that could be used to spy on and disrupt U.S. port operations. The Protecting Investments in our Ports Act will require applicants of the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) under the Maritime Administration that are acquiring digital infrastructure or a software component to certify that they have an approved National Maritime Transportation Security Plan that addresses cyber risks.

This legislation builds on Sen. Cornyn’s Cranes of Concern at our Ports (CCP) Act, which was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY24 and requires the federal government to evaluate threats to U.S. ports posed by cranes manufactured in countries of concern, especially those made by China’s Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company (ZPMC). The Protecting Investment in Our Ports Act makes sure competitive grant funding from the PIDP is being used to purchase secure infrastructure and provides another layer of checks on security.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-shaheen-bill-to-prevent-military-personnel-transferring-skills-to-foreign-adversaries-now-law/,"Cornyn, Shaheen Bill to Prevent Military Personnel Transferring Skills to Foreign Adversaries Now Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statements after their Safeguarding Tactics and Operational Procedures from (STOP) Enemies Act, which would update the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to prohibit active duty and retired service members from providing military education, military training, or tactical advice to foreign adversaries, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“Our military prohibits U.S. service members from providing our enemies with weapons, ammunition, and intelligence, but military education, training, and skills need to be added to that list,” said Sen. Cornyn.“This law will make it clear that active duty or retired service members who transfer their institutional knowledge to our enemies will face serious consequences.”

“U.S. service members are the most well-trained and prepared fighting force on the planet – they must know that sharing any knowledge of their training or U.S. capabilities with adversaries is strictly prohibited,” said Sen. Shaheen. “I’m glad that our bipartisan legislation has been signed into law to clarify the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and ensure that any service member who chooses to betray their oath will face severe consequences.”

Background:

Article 103b of the UCMJ currently prohibits U.S. active duty and retired service members from providing material items such as arms, ammunition, supplies, or money to the enemy as well as harboring, protecting, or providing intelligence to the enemy. This legislation would clarify the scope of Article 103b to prohibit individuals subject to the UCMJ from providing military education, military training, or tactical advice to enemies of the U.S., which could include any hostile body that our forces may be opposing, such as a rebellious mob or a band of renegades; organized forces of the enemy in time of war; and members of military organizations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-warner-lankford-kelly-bill-to-foster-intelligence-community-partnerships-signed-into-law-2/,"Cornyn, Warner, Lankford, Kelly Bill to Foster Intelligence Community Partnerships Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA), and Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) released the following statements after their Enable IC Partnerships Act, which would encourage public and private partnerships with the Intelligence Community to streamline acquisitions and adoption of cutting-edge technologies and support workforce development, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act:

“Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and data sciences are on pace to revolutionize intelligence gathering and analysis,” said Sen. Cornyn.“By fostering IC public-private partnerships, we can better equip our Intelligence Community with the tools and cutting-edge technology that will strengthen our national security.”

“As Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I’m acutely aware of the challenges our Intelligence Community faces to combat the threats posed by our adversaries,” said Sen. Warner. “As our adversaries rapidly advance their technological capabilities, it’s crucial that we streamline our processes in order to keep up. This law will help give the IC the support, funding, and flexibility needed better protect our national security.”

“Innovation is key to protecting America’s cybersecurity and national security,” said Sen. Lankford. “As adversaries from across the globe attempt to undermine the United States, our intelligence community needs to be prepared with the technology, training, and programs to stay one step ahead.”

“Our intelligence community is stronger when they’re given the tools needed to anticipate national security threats,” said Sen. Kelly. “This bipartisan effort will make it easier for our intelligence agencies to leverage partnerships to secure state-of-the-art technology and talent, ensuring the U.S. maintains an edge over adversaries.”

Background:

In light of global threats to national security, acquisition leaders in the Intelligence Community must be able to explore the use of public and private capital partnerships to secure technological advantages for the intelligence community through the identification, development, and transfer of promising technologies to full-scale programs capable of meeting IC requirements.

This legislation will encourage acquisition leaders to explore partnerships with federal lending agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Office of Strategic Capital, and private capital partnerships. It will also support IC talent and workforce development in technology-related fields, including computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and others.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/weekly-column/merry-christmas,Merry Christmas!,2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

In an ever-changing, fast-paced world, it’s easy to get swept up in current events during the holiday season. But on Christmas Eve, I hope everyone takes time to remember the true reason for the season: the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, a reminder of the promise made by our loving God. And while we should keep these in mind year-round, it’s a particularly good time of year to keep in mind the teachings of Jesus: love one another, be grateful for all of the good things in our lives and give back to others.

This Christmas, I’m feeling thankful for several things: first and foremost, my family. As most of you know, I’m the proud father to four grown children and grandpa to 11 grandchildren. This year, I’m looking forward to showing our Christmas traditions to my newest grandson Maddox, who was born to my son John and his wife Ashlee in July. One of these traditions is hosting over 100 family members for homemade chicken noodle soup on Christmas Eve (after attending Christmas Eve Mass, of course!).

I’m also grateful for our men and women in uniform, particularly those serving overseas and away from their families during the holiday season. They have sacrificed time with their families so that we are able to enjoy a peaceful holiday at home with our families. I encourage you to take a moment and say a prayer for these servicemembers, or simply to say thank you.

Finally, I am grateful for the opportunity to work for you in the United States Senate. It is an honor to show up to work every day to represent the interests of South Dakota and our people. Thank you for all you do to make our state the greatest place in the world to call home.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom-news-releases-barrasso-statement-on-passing-of-jinx-clark/,Barrasso Statement on Passing of Jinx Clark,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"Sen. Barrasso and Jinx Clark on the Speaker’s Balcony of the U.S. Capitol Building.

CASPER, WY – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement regarding the loss of his former state staff director and current top aide, Jinx Clark. Jinx, a U.S. Navy veteran, passed away this past weekend.

“Wyoming and the Congressional delegation lost a wonderful mentor, colleague, and friend. Jinx was truly dedicated to serving others. She has been by my side in Wyoming since the day I started in the U.S. Senate. Both as a leader and guidepost, she helped ensure we stayed on track and achieved our mission.

“While she radiated kindness, Jinx was tough as nails. Her experience serving our country as an officer in the U.S. Navy trained her to face any problems and obstacles head-on. Jinx could always be trusted to get the job done and do it well.

“Jinx helped so many people across our state – whether it was through her work in the Senate or her beloved church community. We are all better off today for having Jinx in our lives. I’m beyond grateful I was able to serve Wyoming alongside her for so many years. My prayers are with her sister Kim, brother Bill, and her entire extended family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/video-blackburn-hassan-introduce-improving-travel-for-families-act,"VIDEO: Blackburn, Hassan Introduce Improving Travel for Families Act",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Ahead of Christmas travel, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video announcing the introduction of her Improving Travel for Families Act with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) to allow young children to accompany their parents through Global Entry. This will provide flexibility to help families traveling internationally with children.

“One of the important things that we do is solve problems that Tennesseans let us know about, and that is something that we are working on with a new piece of legislation. We’ve heard from so many of our families that are stationed overseas that using the Global Entry program can really be very helpful. However, when they are traveling with young children – even newborns – those children are not allowed to go through that process, so I am filing the Improving Travel for Families Act. It will make it easier for parents with children that are under the age of 10 to have them go through global entry with them.” – Senator Blackburn

Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn discussing the Improving Travel for Families Act.

BACKGROUND:

In fiscal year 2023, over 10 million individuals were members of Global Entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s program allowing pre-approved, low-risk travelers to go through expedited customs and passport control when arriving in the United States. These streamlined processes are incredibly important for the traveling public—especially as air travel returns to pre-pandemic levels—with the number of travelers arriving by air into the country increasing by 6.1% from August 2023 to August 2024.

But Global Entry, specifically its redundant and bureaucratic processes, isn’t well-suited for family travel. While Transportation Security Administration PreCheck has adopted measures to allow children to join their parents in the fast lanes, the Global Entry Program has fallen behind and does not allow small children to travel in the Global Entry lanes if those children are not enrolled in the program—even if the child is an infant.

IMPROVING TRAVEL FOR FAMILIES ACT:

The Improving Travel for Families Act would:

Allow children under the age of 11 who are not a member of Global Entry to go through the Global Entry lanes with their parent or legal guardian who is enrolled in the program; and",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/congress-passes-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-improve-veterans-access-to-healthcare-and-benefits,"Congress Passes Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Access to Healthcare and Benefits",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – Congress passed the bicameral, bipartisan Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act last week, improving veterans’ access to healthcare and benefits. The legislation included the VET-TEC Authorization Act, led by U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Angus King (I-ME), members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to fund the Veterans Technology Education Courses (VET-TEC) program, which expired earlier this year.

Since its creation in 2017, the VET-TEC program has helped thousands of veterans get jobs in the technology sector. The program has an 84% graduation rate, and provides tuition at eligible training institutions, housing stipends, and connections with potential employers.

“The VET-TEC program has created effective pathways for veterans to launch their careers in tech,” said Cramer. “Building on its successes, this reauthorization expands eligibility to allow more veterans to participate in the program. Supporting our veterans includes enhancing the employment resources and opportunities available to them. I appreciate Congress’ support of this bill and look forward to the President signing it into law.”

“The VET-TEC program has been an exceptional resource for thousands of veterans looking for good-paying jobs in the tech sector,” said King. “The reauthorization of the VET-TEC Authorization Act expands eligibility for both veterans and training institutions and is a commonsense step to give even more veterans access to opportunities in tech. While there is always areas where we disagree, I am glad both chambers and both parties came together to support our men and women who answered the call.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/eda-invests-13-million-to-boost-healthcare-workforce-development-at-und,EDA Invests $1.3 Million to Boost Healthcare Workforce Development at UND,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced an award of $1.3 million to the University of North Dakota (UND) in Grand Forks. This award supports healthcare workforce development by funding the procurement of a van and related equipment to allow UND to expand its medical training program. This $1.3 million award will be matched with $328,500 in local funds.

“The University of North Dakota is essential to training medical professionals in the region,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “At a time of limited supply and growing demand for more technicians, nurses, and physicians, these funds will support workforce development efforts in the state, both now and in the future. I’m glad this project secured assistance to enhance training opportunities for the essential jobs in medical care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-risch-lummis-slam-blms-stone-mannings-new-job-at-environmental-group,"Crapo, Risch, Lummis Slam BLM's Stone-Manning's New Job at Environmental Group",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) led 22 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Heather Gottry, the U.S. Department of the Interior Ethics Office Director, urging her to identify conflicts of interest throughout the department and advise the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Director and others to recuse themselves from any pending agency business for the duration of their service.

“Over the last four years, the American West has suffered greatly as the BLM has imposed policies straight from the playbook of the BLM Director’s future employer. Across the west, those who live near and rely on public lands for their economic livelihood have suffered from new resource management plans that choose preservation over multiple use,” wrote the lawmakers. “Communities have languished from the BLM’s flat-out refusal to follow the law that mandates onshore oil and gas lease sales. Ranchers have struggled with grazing permit renewals all while staring down a new rule that improperly puts ‘conservation’ on equal footing with multiple use activities and threatening to end their businesses.""

Risch, Crapo and Lummis are joined in sending the letter by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota) and 14 members of the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-nominates-34-iowa-students-to-us-military-academies,Grassley Nominates 34 Iowa Students to U.S. Military Academies,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is announcing his support for 34 Iowa students seeking acceptance to U.S. military academies.

“I’m honored to nominate these 34 extraordinary Iowans to our nation’s prestigious military academies,” Grassley said. “These young men and women represent Iowa’s best and brightest. Their accomplishments, leadership and desire to serve are commendable. I look forward to seeing all they accomplish going forward.”

Each year, Grassley nominates Iowa high school seniors for placements at the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. All service academies select at least one of Grassley’s nominees.

Learn more about service academy nominations HERE.

Grassley’s nominees for entrance during the 2025-2026 academic year follow:

United States Air Force Academy

Trenton Abel, Toddville

Emmett Bartels, Runnells

Sean Bendinger, West Des Moines

Alexis Bogardus, Granger

Brayden Bohnsack, La Porte City

Grant Dunn, Johnston

Benjamin Green, West Des Moines

Eliana Hansen, Cedar Rapids

Shae Magley, Cedar Falls

Amelia Porisch, St. Ansgar

Ky Wilkens, Dallas Center

United States Military Academy at West Point

Eric Ding, Davenport

MacKenzie Fah, Bettendorf

Theodore Hartwig, Marion

MacKenzie McClelland, Grinnell

Aiden Price, Davenport

Abigail Sander, Polk City

Naomi Templeman, Dallas Center

Jonah Zimmer, Sperry

United States Naval Academy

Madison Andrews, Maysville

Ava Blankenship, Ankeny

Ella Goodrich, Adel

Ellie Hance, Palo

Evan Kohlsdorf, Des Moines

Riley Kramer, Riverdale

Solene MacLean, Polk City

Brigid McGowan, Sioux City

Quentin Moore, Des Moines

Owen Powell, Blue Grass

Connor Rash, Ames

Tyler Tingley, Council Bluffs

Ryan Traynor, Urbandale

Conrad Yates, West Des Moines

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Sean Bendinger, West Des Moines

Ella Goodrich, Adel

Gage Holub, Mt. Vernon

Conrad Yates, West Des Moines

-30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-issues-2024-christmas-message,HYDE-SMITH ISSUES 2024 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Issues 2024 Christmas Message.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued a 2024 Christmas message that encourages Mississippians to “celebrate love, joy, and peace, and reflect on the many blessings in our lives,” including the sacrifices of our servicemembers, first responders, and healthcare workers.

“While the world deals with turmoil and conflict, this season calls us to love our neighbors, care for those in need, and approach life with a spirit of generosity. Our mission should be to serve those who need our help the most – through acts of kindness or simply offering a listening ear. We all have the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us,” Hyde-Smith said.

Hyde-Smith’s full Christmas message is available below:

Merry Christmas, Mississippi!

May we hold fast to the true spirit of this holiday season, taking time to celebrate love, joy, and peace, and reflect on the many blessings in our lives.

As Christians, we honor the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His life and teachings inspire us to live gracefully, move with compassion, and love one another.

As we celebrate, let us remember that this season is truly about peace – peace in our homes, in our communities, and in our hearts.

While the world deals with turmoil and conflict, this season calls us to love our neighbors, care for those in need, and approach life with a spirit of generosity. Our mission should be to serve those who need our help the most – through acts of kindness or simply offering a listening ear. We all have the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.

This season, I also thank our servicemembers, many of whom are far from home and separated from loved ones as they defend our freedoms.

I share the same gratitude for our first responders and healthcare workers who continue to serve tirelessly. Their commitment to keeping us safe every single day is a gift to us all.

My wish for all Mississippians is that your Christmas be filled with warmth, joy, and the love of those around you. May we all carry the message of peace and love with us throughout the new year.

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and happy holidays. May God continue to bless you with peace, happiness, and abundant blessings this holiday season and in the year ahead.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=10559322-2315-4C8F-B9C1-482A44E07028,"Sen. Moran, Rep. Mann Announce Discussion Draft of Landmark Legislation to Reform Haskell University",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) today announced a discussion draft of legislation that would federally charter Haskell Indian Nations University and transfer governance from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to the Haskell Board of Regents, while maintaining federal funding for the university.

“As the sole Tribal Nations University in the country, Haskell University once provided Native American students the opportunity to receive a high-quality, tuition-free education in an environment that understood and prioritized indigenous heritage and culture,” said Sen. Moran. “However, for the last few years the university has been neglected and mismanaged by the Bureau of Indian Education. The bureau has failed to protect students, respond to my congressional inquiries or meet the basic infrastructure needs of the school. It is clear that the best path forward is for the university to be led by an independent Board of Regents nominated by the Tribal community and no longer fettered to the Bureau of Indian Education. I am grateful for the initial conversations and input from the Haskell Board of Regents, tribal members, and students and the staff at Haskell University. I look forward to receiving additional feedback on this legislation to begin a new chapter in the life of this historic university.”

“Haskell Indian Nations University is a one-of-a-kind, historic institution that was established to meet the educational needs of students of any federally recognized tribe,” said Rep. Mann. “Haskell should be a crown jewel for both Native Americans and Kansas, but for far too long has been failed by the federal government. For years, the U.S. Department of Interior and the Bureau of Indian Education has mismanaged the university, failed to comply with federal oversight, and turned a blind eye to misconduct that has been detrimental to Haskell students. It is obvious that the best way to protect Haskell’s rich heritage and culture is to charter the university and remove its governance from the federal bureaucrats to a Board of Regents nominated by Tribal communities. This new chapter for Haskell is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it’s imperative that those most directly impacted have a welcome, active voice in helping us enact this change.”

“Over the years, Haskell has encountered barriers to progress and innovation that stem from the structural and operational constraints within federal agencies,” said Brittany Hall, President of the Haskell Board of Regents. “These challenges, while not unique to Haskell, underscore the critical need for a more tailored governance model empowered by a U.S. Congressional charter -- one that enables the University to thrive while better serving its students and communities.”

“I am thankful that Sen. Moran and Rep. Mann have introduced this legislation to strengthen Haskell as a federally chartered university to further the federal government’s treaty and trust responsibility to Indian people,” said Joseph Rupnick, Chairman of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. “I look forward to discussions in the new year with Tribal leaders and Haskell alums, faculty and students so that this bill can safeguard Haskell’s future and its funding.”

Haskell University is the only four-year, postsecondary institution under the governance of the Department of Interior. The department has failed to respond to Congressional inquiries and address concerns raised by the Tribal community—including delays and redactions in a report on a sexual harassment investigation. Additionally, Haskell University's infrastructure is outdated, non-ADA compliant and contains obsolete technology. Haskell University faces high dropout rates and a shortage of resources for essential programs.

Sen. Moran and Rep. Mann are seeking feedback from the Native American, Lawrence and higher education communities on the proposed legislation to ensure the bill effectively addresses key issues at Haskell University.

Please email feedback@moran.senate.gov for a feedback response form. Forms should be submitted no later than February 1, 2025.

Text for the draft legislation can be found here, and a section-by-section summary of the legislation can be found here.

Timeline of events at Haskell University:

In 2022, serious allegations were raised against employees regarding improper treatment of students and the wrongful termination of an employee’s contract.

In Dec. 2022, Sen. Moran introduced legislation to give Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) greater input over federal funding discussions that impact them.

In January of 2023, Sen. Moran sent a letter to the Director of Indian Education to voice his concerns with the allegations leveled at Haskell University and requested the BIE address issues at the university.

On March 2, 2023, Sen. Moran received a response from the Department of the Interior detailing changes BIE would make at the university.

After receiving the response letter, Sen. Moran’s office continued to receive outreach from students and staff at the university indicating that BIE had not effectively addressed issues at Haskell University.

In October of 2023, Sen. Moran’s staff met with BIE Director Tony Dearman and was informed that the Bureau of Indian Affairs Administrative Investigation Board initiated an investigation in July of 2022 and concluded that investigation in January of 2023.

On April 16, 2024, a report, titled, “Haskell Indian Nations University – Administrative Investigation Report, January 13, 2023” was released after it was subjected to a FOIA request by a third-party government watchdog nonprofit organization, detailing the university’s failure to implement a sufficient sexual assault policy, the wrongful termination of certain employees, and staff and student intimidation by Haskell leadership, among other concerns.

On April 25, 2024, Sen. Moran wrote a letter to Secretary of the Department of the Interior, Deb Haaland, calling for a systemic overhaul within the BIE. Consistent with the department’s long-time neglect of Haskell University, the secretary delegated a response to an assistant secretary.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=BD541054-B1B0-43E9-A0AB-E9AD2E0697AC,"Sens. Moran, Van Hollen Introduce Legislation to Empower Individuals with Disabilities",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Chris Van Hollen (D- Md.) today introduced legislation that would direct the Social Security Administration to change the way it calculates Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to not penalize individuals with disabilities who chose to marry.

The Eliminating the Marriage Penalty in SSI Act would exclude a spouse’s income and resources when determining eligibility for (SSI) and disregard marital status when calculating the SSI benefit amount for an adult who has a diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability.

“Our policies should support and empower individuals with disabilities to live a full and independent life, including the option to get married,” said Sen. Moran. “This is sensible legislation that would change how disability payments are calculated to make certain the benefits we provide to individuals with disabilities aren’t diminished because they choose to get married.”

“Supplemental Security Income is critical to allowing people with disabilities to strengthen their financial security and independence,” said Sen. Van Hollen. “This legislation will ensure that these Americans won’t be financially penalized simply for marrying.”

This legislation is endorsed by the National Down Syndrome Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, Autism Speaks, Autism society of America, the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/senator-murkowski-opposes-denali-name-change,Senator Murkowski Opposes Denali Name Change,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=9,scraper,"Washington, DC – In response to recent comments from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) reaffirmed her support for Denali to remain the officially recognized name of North America’s tallest mountain.

“You can’t improve upon the name that Alaska’s Koyukon Athabascans bestowed on North America’s tallest peak, Denali – the Great One,” Senator Murkowski said. “For years, I advocated in Congress to restore the rightful name for this majestic mountain to respect Alaska’s first people who have lived on these lands for thousands of years. This is an issue that should not be relitigated.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-merry-christmas-nebraska/,"Ricketts: “Merry Christmas, Nebraska!”",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"December 23, 2024

OMAHA, NE – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement in anticipation of Christmas Day:

“Christmas is a season of joy and reflection. As we gather with loved ones, let’s embrace the traditions that make this season special. Let’s celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who brought hope and healing to our broken world. Let’s remember those who will spend the holidays away from their families, especially those in the military. And let’s recommit ourselves to helping those in need.”

“On behalf of my family and my team I wish you a peaceful and joyous Christmas. May you experience the true joy of this season. Merry Christmas, Nebraska!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rounds-announces-nominations-to-us-service-academies-for-2025-2026-school-year,Rounds Announces Nominations to U.S. Service Academies for 2025-2026 School Year,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SD,Mike Rounds,R000605,www.rounds.senate.gov,rounds,https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) announced that he has nominated students for appointments to the nation’s service academies.

Rounds nominated Brody Weinmeister of Aberdeen as his principal nominee to the U.S. Naval Academy, Rowdy Baldwin of Pierre as his principal nominee to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Hollie Wise of Spearfish as his principal nominee to the U.S. Air Force Academy.

“It’s an honor to nominate our nation’s future military leaders to U.S. service academies,” said Rounds. “The U.S. service academies are among the most elite educational institutions in the world. After receiving a top-notch education, these South Dakotans will serve our country as active-duty military members. We’re proud of these students and their desire to answer the call of duty to serve our nation. All of South Dakota is behind them every step of the way as they continue their education, serve their country and go into their careers with the U.S. military.”

Brody Weinmeister of Aberdeen– Principal Nominee, U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis)

Brody is the son of Robert and Stacey Weinmeister of Aberdeen, South Dakota. Brody is currently a senior at Aberdeen Roncalli High School, where he serves as captain of the varsity football team, plays varsity basketball and participates in student council. Brody helped establish the 7th Grade Mentor Program and the 5th Grade Lunch Program at Roncalli. Through the 5th Grade Lunch Program, high school students attend lunch with 5th graders at the elementary school to help younger students build relationships with upperclassmen and feel less nervous about moving up to the high school building when they enter sixth grade. Brody is a National Honor Society member and currently holds a 3.9 GPA.

“I am committed to upholding the values of integrity, discipline, and leadership that the United States Naval Academy instills in its midshipmen,” said Weinmeister. “This nomination represents not only an incredible opportunity but also a responsibility to serve with honor and dedication. I am excited for the challenges and experiences ahead, and I look forward to contributing to the legacy of excellence at the Naval Academy. I’d like to thank my teachers and family for all they have done for me during this journey. I would like to thank Senator Mike Rounds for his confidence in me, and I am eager to begin this next chapter in my journey to serve our great nation.”

Rowdy Baldwin of Pierre – Principal Nominee, U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

Rowdy is the son of Jason and Diedra Baldwin of Pierre, South Dakota. Rowdy competes in trap shooting, 5-Stand, 4-H Archery and skeet shooting. Rowdy spends a significant amount of his time tackling a variety of jobs and helping around the community. Rowdy also volunteers with Feeding South Dakota, volunteers with kids’ trap shooting and tutors foreign exchange and local students. Rowdy is a member of National Honor Society and currently holds a 4.0 GPA.

“I'm profoundly excited and grateful to receive a nomination to the United States Military Academy at West Point from Senator Mike Rounds,” said Baldwin. “The academy has been my goal and dream for the last 2 years, and I have been both pushed and helped by my friends and family to achieve this astounding honor. I deeply appreciate everyone around me who's helped me to work hard and reach my dreams, and I can't wait to be able to represent my family, community, and country. Beat Navy!”

Hollie Wise of Spearfish – Principal Nominee, U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs)

Hollie is the daughter of James and Sharilyn Wise of Spearfish, South Dakota. Hollie is currently a senior at Spearfish High School, where she is Vice President of the student council and participates in speech and debate, as well as varsity soccer. Hollie volunteers at her local church and as a peer academic tutor. Hollie is President of her National Honor Society chapter and currently holds a 4.0 GPA.

“I am beyond grateful to receive Senator Mike Rounds’ principal nomination to the United States Air Force Academy,” said Wise. “This incredible opportunity would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, the inspiration and guidance of my teachers, and the encouragement of my friends. Most importantly, I give all glory to God, whose strength and faithfulness have brought me to this moment. Receiving this nomination has deepened my desire to attend the Academy, where I can contribute to something greater than myself.”

In addition to principal nominees, Rounds may send up to 14 competitive nominees per academy for consideration by that academy. Each service academy admission board gives full and fair consideration to these nominees and will determine final appointments. Rounds has selected the students listed below to receive a competitive nomination.

Two students, Lexi Brandt of Hill City (U.S. Naval Academy) and Joseph Juenger of Rapid City (U.S. Military Academy), received Letters of Assurance from their respective academies. A Letter of Assurance is a conditional offer of admission from the academy, dependent on the applicant receiving a nomination from a member of their Congressional delegation, as well as passing their medical and fitness screenings. Letters of Assurance are relatively rare and reflect a high level of confidence in the applicant's potential to succeed and contribute to the academy.

Lexi Brandt of Hill City – Competitive Nominee with Letter of Assurance, U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis)

Lexi is the daughter of Coni and Scott Brandt of Hill City, South Dakota. Lexi is a senior at Hill City High School, where she serves as President of the Student Council and Vice President of State Student Council. Lexi volunteers with the Humane Society and Children’s Miracle Network. Lexi serves as President of her National Honor Society chapter and currently holds a 4.0 GPA.

“I am deeply honored to receive Senator Mike Rounds' nomination to the United States Naval Academy,” said Brandt. “Serving my country has been a dream of mine since middle school, and this milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, and teachers. I am eager to begin this journey, knowing it will be both challenging and incredibly rewarding. The Naval Academy will shape me into a leader of character and prepare me to serve with honor and dedication as an officer in the United States Navy.”

Joseph Juenger of Rapid City – Competitive Nominee with Letter of Assurance, U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

Joseph is the son of Julie and Joseph Juenger of Rapid City, South Dakota. Joseph is a senior at Rapid City Stevens High School, where he serves as a captain of the varsity wrestling team and on the varsity soccer leadership team. Joseph was also a State Delegate to American Legion Boys Nation. Joseph serves as a youth wrestling coach and referee. Joseph is a member of National Honor Society and currently holds a 3.8 GPA.

“I am deeply grateful to receive Senator Mike Rounds' nomination to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point,” said Juenger. “I have worked hard toward this dream, but I know this opportunity and achievement is the result of support from our extraordinary community of families, teachers, coaches, friends, and veterans. I pledge to pay my gratitude forward by tirelessly serving and protecting our communities and country, now and for the next generation.”

U.S. Naval Academy (Annapolis)

Brody Weinmeister of Aberdeen – Principal

Lexi Brandt of Hill City - Competitive with Letter of Assurance

Cooper Deatherage of Brookings - Competitive

Aubrey Fraasch of Milbank - Competitive

Dylan Frank of Custer – Competitive

Tarrent Frye of Sioux Falls - Competitive

William Hanzlik of Chamberlain – Competitive

Aaron Letner of Rapid City - Competitive

Talan Lunders of Aberdeen - Competitive

Lincoln Mansfield of Hurley - Competitive

Alex Newman of Sioux Falls – Competitive

Abigail Nichols of Pierre – Competitive

Gabriel Reeve of Piedmont - Competitive

Maverick Sutton of Ellsworth AFB, SD - Competitive

Paige Willnerd of Summerset - Competitive

U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

Rowdy Baldwin of Pierre – Principal

Cooper Deatherage of Brookings - Competitive

Trey Dunse of Webster – Competitive

Tarrent Frye of Sioux Falls - Competitive

Joseph Juenger of Rapid City - Competitive with Letter of Assurance

Lincoln Mansfield of Hurley - Competitive

Alex Newman of Sioux Falls – Competitive

Abigail Nichols of Pierre - Competitive

Gabriel Reeve of Piedmont - Competitive

Maverick Sutton of Ellsworth AFB, SD – Competitive

Taylor Wenzlaff of Yankton - Competitive

Paige Willnerd of Summerset - Competitive

U.S. Air Force Academy (Colorado Springs)

Hollie Wise of Spearfish – Principal

Max Cook of Gregory - Competitive

Trey Dunse of Webster – Competitive

Tarrent Frye of Sioux Falls – Competitive

William Hanzlik of Chamberlain – Competitive

Kendra Hoffmann of Sioux Falls - Competitive

Aaron Letner of Rapid City - Competitive

Talan Lunders of Rapid City – Competitive

Lincoln Mansfield of Hurley - Competitive

Kane Murphy of Dell Rapids - Competitive

Alex Newman of Sioux Falls - Competitive

Gabriel Reeve of Piedmont - Competitive

Maverick Sutton of Ellsworth AFB, SD - Competitive

Brody Weinmeister of Aberdeen - Competitive

Paige Willnerd of Summerset - Competitive

U.S. Merchant Marines Academy (Kings Point)

Tarrent Frye of Sioux Falls - Competitive

Abigail Nichols of Pierre - Competitive

Maverick Sutton of Ellsworth AFB, SD - Competitive

Paige Willnerd of Summerset - Competitive

Students interested in attending a service academy go through a rigorous application process. Because the academies are highly competitive, students must meet eligibility requirements in leadership, physical fitness, character and academics. The young people joining the military directly from the academies are among the highest caliber our country has to offer, which is a result of the challenging training and education they received at the academies. Students applying for academies are required to receive a Congressional nomination as part of the application process. Those appointed receive a scholarship and military appointment and are required to serve in the military for at least five years upon graduation.

Individuals interested in applying for a service academy nomination for academic year 2026-2027 (Class of 2030) should apply by October 1, 2025. Questions about the academy nomination application process can be directed to Rounds’ Rapid City office by calling (605) 343-5035 or by emailing Academy_Nominations@rounds.senate.gov.

An informational packet and the application packet can be found on Rounds’ website at https://www.rounds.senate.gov/constituents/academy-nominations.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-receives-committee-assignments-for-119th-congress/,Young Receives Committee Assignments for 119th Congress,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today announced his four committee assignments for the 119th Congress.

For the first time, Young was selected to serve on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. The Intelligence Committee was created by the Senate in 1976 to “oversee and make continuing studies of the intelligence activities and programs of the United States Government,” and to “provide vigilant legislative oversight over the intelligence activities of the United States to assure that such activities are in conformity with the Constitution and laws of the United States.”

“As a former U.S. Marine Corps intelligence officer, I have a deep appreciation for our dedicated intelligence professionals and the importance of unbiased intelligence to our national security. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the committee to ensure policymakers are receiving the best intelligence possible as they make critical decisions,” said Senator Young.

The Intelligence Committee has 17 Senators: nine from the majority party and eight from the minority. The one-seat majority is dictated by Senate resolution and, unlike most other committees, does not change in proportion with the overall Senate ratio of majority to minority membership. The Committee structure is intended to reflect the nonpartisan nature of intelligence and encourage the Committee to work in a bipartisan manner.

Senator Young will continue to serve on the Senate Committee on Finance; the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. The Senate Finance Committee will play a pivotal role in tax reform efforts next year.

“I’m honored to continue my work on these committees to tackle the issues most important to Hoosiers, including stimulating economic growth, reducing costs for families, and ensuring America maintains global leadership in technology,” said Senator Young.

The committee assignments will begin in January.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-president-bidens-veto-of-the-bipartisan-judges-act/,Young Statement on President Biden’s Veto of the Bipartisan JUDGES Act,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement after President Joe Biden vetoed the Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved (JUDGES) Act of 2024, legislation introduced by Young to address judicial emergencies and shortages across the country:

“This misguided decision is just another example of why Americans are counting down the days until President Biden leaves the White House. Issuing this veto is partisan politics at its worst. The JUDGES Act is a fair bill with strong bipartisan support that would have created 66 judgeships over three presidential terms to address our judicial backlog,” said Senator Young. “The President is more enthusiastic about using his office to provide relief to his family members who received due process than he is about giving relief to the millions of regular Americans who are waiting years for their due process. Biden’s legacy will be ‘pardons for me, no justice for thee.’”

Background on the JUDGES Act of 2024:

The JUDGES Act of 2024 would address judicial emergencies and shortages across the country by increasing the number of federal district judges in the most overworked regions of the country, including the Southern District of Indiana. The bill passed Congress with strong bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The JUDGES Act of 2024 would act on the findings in the nonpartisan 2023 Judicial Conference of the United States report by creating the recommended judgeships during future presidential administrations. Additionally, the bipartisan bill includes new transparency requirements and provisions to ensure greater access to justice in certain high-need areas of the country.

Congress bears the constitutional responsibility of establishing judgeships in the district courts of the United States. However, the last comprehensive authorization of new judgeships occurred in 1990 when then-Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Joe Biden sponsored legislation that created 85 new judgeships for President George H.W. Bush to fill. Since then, targeted legislation enacted between 1999 and 2003 created 34 additional district court judgeships. It has now been two decades since Congress last authorized new district judgeships.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-social-security-fairness-act/,Young Statement on Social Security Fairness Act,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement after voting against the Social Security Fairness Act, legislation that will expedite the insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund:

“This legislation bypassed the typical committee processes in Congress that would have allowed us to have a more thoughtful conversation about how to balance addressing the disparate treatment of certain Social Security beneficiaries with the long-term solvency of the program. As a result, this was a rushed and fiscally irresponsible bill that will deplete the Social Security Trust Fund, which is already projected to be depleted by 2034. During floor consideration in the Senate, I voted for an amendment offered by Senator Cruz that would have addressed this issue in a more fiscally sound manner, and I am disappointed the Senate didn’t support that reasonable approach. Congress should address the disparate treatment of Social Security beneficiaries, including certain Hoosier first responders and other public servants, but there are better solutions than this legislation which further jeopardizes the long-term solvency of the Social Security program,” said Senator Young.

The Social Security Fairness Act will repeal longstanding measures that were intended to ensure Social Security benefits are distributed based on an individual’s contribution into Social Security. Removing these measures—the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO)—will result in the Social Security Trust Fund becoming insolvent at least six months sooner than anticipated. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office projects that the bill will cost almost $200 billion over the next 10 years. As a result, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimates the bill will lead to an additional $25,000 of lifetime benefit cuts for a typical couple retiring in 2033.

Young voted in favor of a more fiscally responsible amendment offered by Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), which would have increased monthly payments for those affected by WEP by $100 to $150 every month while basing future retirees’ earnings off an individual’s earnings throughout their entire career with a proportionate benefit based on what they paid into Social Security. Senator Cruz’s amendment failed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2024/12/22/daines-lands-critical-committee-assignments-for-119th-congress/,Daines Lands Critical Committee Assignments for 119th Congress,2024-12-22,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced his committee assignments for the 119th Congress. Daines will serve on the U.S. Senate Committees on Finance, Foreign Relations, Energy and Natural Resources, and Indian Affairs.

“It’s an honor to serve Montanans in the U.S. Senate and I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues on these crucial committees to fight for our Montana way of life. President Trump received a mandate from the American people, and with these committee assignments I’ll be working to enact the President’s agenda to unleash American energy, cut taxes, open overseas markets for Montana farmers and ranchers, improve America’s relationships abroad, bring down costs for hardworking families, secure the southern border and stem the flow of deadly drugs,” Daines said.

U.S. Senate Committee on Finance: The Committee has jurisdiction over policies relating to taxation and revenue measures; customs and ports of entry and delivery; trade agreements; tariffs; transportation of dutiable goods; health programs under the Social Security Act including Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families; and Social Security.

U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations: The Committee is instrumental in developing and influencing United States foreign policy. The committee has considered, debated, and reported important treaties and legislation and holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations. Through these powers, the committee has helped shape foreign policy of broad significance, in matters of war and peace and international relations.

U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: The Committee has jurisdiction over energy resources and development, including regulation, conservation, strategic petroleum reserves and appliance standards; nuclear energy; forest management; public lands and their renewable resources; surface mining, federal coal, oil, and gas, other mineral leasing; territories and insular possessions; and water resources.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2024/12/21/budd-votes-to-support-wnc-disaster-aid/,Budd Votes to Support WNC Disaster Aid,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) released a statement after voting to support government funding legislation that provides tens of billions of dollars in disaster relief for the people of Western North Carolina.

Senator Budd said:

“At long last, the people of Western North Carolina will begin to receive the disaster aid they so desperately need and deserve. It is going to take years to fully recover after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. I will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the resilient citizens of the western mountains as they undertake the difficult job of rebuilding. They will never be forgotten as long as I have anything to say about it.”

Background on Senator Budd’s efforts:

On September 28, 2024, Senator Ted Budd received his first operational briefing from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), North Carolina Emergency Management, National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross.

On September 30, 2024, Senator Budd took an air tour of the storm damage alongside Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler and received an in-person operational review of the recovery effort.

On October 1, 2024, Senator Budd joined a letter to Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray, and Senate Appropriations Vice Chair Susan Collins on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.

On October 8, 2024, Senator Budd joined a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell urging that the Greensboro Influx Care Facility (ICF) be operationalized to assist in Western North Carolina’s recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.

On October 29, 2024, Senators Budd, Thom Tillis, alongside Senators Tim Scott, Bill Cassidy, M.D., and Rick Scott, announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program. On October 15th, the SBA announced the Disaster Loan Fund had run out of money.

On November 18, 2024, Senators Budd and Tillis, and Congressman Chuck Edwards led a bipartisan group of members of the Senate and House to send a letter to President Biden requesting that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), “immediately send a supplemental appropriation request to Congress to support the communities we represent, which were devastated after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.”

On November 20, 2024, Senators Budd and Tillis led a coalition of 18 U.S. Senators to send an oversight letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell demanding answers over recent reports that a FEMA employee advised disaster assistance teams in Florida responding to Hurricane Milton to avoid homes that had yard signs supporting President-Elect Donald Trump.

On November 20, 2024, Senator Budd spoke passionately on the Senate floor to honor the heroic individuals in Western North Carolina who helped others during Hurricane Helene. Senator Budd also renewed his call for Congress to act on the supplemental funding bill for long-term recovery for the region.

On November 20, 2024, Senators Ted Budd, Tim Scott, Thom Tillis, and Marsha Blackburn introduced the SBA Disaster Transparency Act, which requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to make its monthly reporting requirements for the Disaster Loan Account available to the public.

On November 22, 2024, Senator Ted Budd, Senator Thom Tillis, Rep. Virginia Foxx and Rep. Chuck Edwards sent a letter to President Biden urging him to “ immediately direct the FEMA to deploy FEMA temporary housing resources – including travel trailers and manufactured homes” to Western North Carolina. As temperatures drop in the region, “this would give homeowners the ability to remain on their own property while repairs and reconstruction continue.”

On November 27, 2024, Senators Ted Budd, Thom Tillis, Jon Ossoff, Raphael Warnock, Mark Warner, and Tim Kaine sent a letter to Senate leadership urging both the Senate and House “to bring a robust supplemental appropriations bill to the floor”.

On December 10, 2024, Senators Budd and Tillis published an opinion piece for the Carolina Journal laying out the road ahead for Western North Carolina as they rebuild and recover from Hurricane Helene.

On December 10, 2024, Senators Budd and Tillis hosted N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, N.C. House of Representatives Speaker-elect Destin Hall, State Senators Bill Rabon and Ralph Hise, and State Representative Dudley Greene to discuss efforts to provide immediate assistance to North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene’s devastation.

On December 13, 2024, Senator Budd introduced two bills to cut government regulation and deliver relief to North Carolinians impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

The Disaster Assistance Fairness Act would provide relief to North Carolina homeowners who are still desperately trying to dig out from the storms by making it clear that debris removal from private roads is in the public interest and therefore eligible for reimbursement under the Stafford Act.

The Flexible Compliance for Emergencies and Natural Disasters (FinCEN) Act would help businesses in North Carolina who are currently facing operational challenges and have limited resources in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

On December 19, 2024, Senator Budd spoke at a press conference and laid out his demand that he would not support any continuing resolution to fund the government unless disaster aid for Western North Carolina is passed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-keep-government-open-and-provide-needed-disaster-recovery-funds,Capito Votes to Keep Government Open and Provide Needed Disaster Recovery Funds,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), a leader on the Senate Appropriations Committee, released the below statement after voting for a short-term government funding bill.

“While I am glad we took the responsible step to avoid a shutdown—which would have had a detrimental impact to essential services that Americans rely on—we should not have been in this predicament in the first place. Despite having done our work on the Appropriations Committee months ago, Leader Schumer’s inaction on these committee-passed bills forced us into the current ‘govern by CR’ scenario. I am hopeful that in the new Congress, under a Republican majority in both the Senate and House and a Trump administration, we will be able to work together to prevent these kinds of scenarios and provide more predictability for the American people. I am also pleased that in this bill, we are providing the support and assistance needed for those who were devastated by recent natural disasters. Having seen firsthand the damage done in North Carolina with Vice President-elect Vance, this Congress did the right thing to provide the relief for those families, especially at this time of the year.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-votes-to-pass-social-security-fairness-act,Capito Votes to Pass Social Security Fairness Act,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) voted to pass the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act. The legislation ensures that firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other public servants – including nearly 7,000 West Virginians – receive their full Social Security benefits.

“By passing this legislation and repealing - two Social Security provisions that have impacted thousands of West Virginians, our police officers, firefighters, and other local and state public servants who may have worked a second job or re-entered the workforce after retirement to support their families are no longer being unfairly penalized. Nor are spouses, widows, and widowers who had their benefits severely reduced or entirely eliminated because they also collected a government pension. Repealing these provisions is the right thing to do and will help so many who have dedicated their lives in service to their communities,” Senator Capito said.

“Senator Capito has always been a loyal supporter of professional firefighters and today she is doubling down on that support by voting yes on H.R. 82 Social Security Fairness Act. Senator Capito realizes the positive impact this will have on working class retirees, not only now, but also in the future. Thank you, Senator Capito, for having the back of blue-collar working class West Virginians and the Professional Fire Fighters of West Virginia,” Jayson Nicewarner, Secretary/Treasurer of the Professional Fire Fighters of West Virginia, said.

“I’d like to thank Senator Capito for her support of HR 82, and from all West Virginia current employees and retirees who have worked but have been negatively impacted by our current Social Security. Even though we have worked and put in the same amount as others,” Retired Chief Deputy Steve Walker said.

BACKGROUND:

This bill would restore full Social Security benefits for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other public servants by repealing two provisions of current law – the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) – that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees receive.

The WEP, enacted in 1983, reduces the Social Security benefits of workers who receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government for employment not covered by Social Security. The GPO, enacted in 1977, reduces Social Security spousal benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers whose spouses receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government. Currently, nearly 7,000 West Virginians are affected by WEP and GPO.

The Social Security Fairness Act would repeal both of these laws, ensuring law enforcement, firefighters, park rangers, and other public sector workers and their families receive the full Social Security benefits they’ve earned.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-votes-to-avert-government-shutdown/,Cassidy Votes to Avert a Government Shutdown,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) issued the following statement on his vote in support of a bill to avert a government shutdown by extending federal funding through March.

“My priority was to prevent the flood insurance program from lapsing, secure our border, and fund our troops. I commend Speaker Johnson for his ability to unite a divided House,” said Dr. Cassidy. “And after a long battle to provide public workers with the full Social Security benefits they earned, we succeeded in repealing WEP and GPO! Anyone interested in the federal government being fair to all Americans should consider this important.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-bill-to-repeal-wep-gpo-after-cassidy-successfully-pushes-for-vote/,Senate Passes Bill to Repeal WEP & GPO After Cassidy Successfully Pushes for Vote,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) celebrated the passage of his bill to fully repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) following his months-long effort to secure a vote. The Social Security Fairness Act, which passed by a vote of 76 to 20, ensures public sector workers and their families can receive full Social Security benefits by repealing the two unfair penalties that reduced benefits for nearly 3 million Americans. The bill now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

“Today is a day to celebrate! State and local workers in Louisiana deserve the full Social Security benefits they’ve earned. Now they will get it,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This was a long overdue step. Now we must save Social Security from insolvency in nine years for every American.”

WEP was enacted in 1983 and reduces the Social Security benefits of workers who receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government for employment not covered by Social Security. GPO was enacted in 1977 and reduces Social Security spousal benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers whose spouses receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government. Together, these provisions reduce Social Security benefits for nearly 3 million Americans—including many teachers and police officers.

Cassidy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor tonight ahead of the final vote to pass the Social Security Fairness Act. He also spoke on the Senate floor Wednesday as the Senate cleared the first procedural vote on the bill by a tally of 73-27.

Background

Cassidy has repeatedly demanded a vote on the Social Security Fairness Act. In July and again earlier this month, Cassidy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor urging Congress to repeal WEP and GPO as part of his “Big Idea” to save, strengthen, and secure America’s retirement system. In June, Cassidy entered a statement into the record urging the repeal of WEP and GPO ahead of the U.S. Senate Finance Subcommittee field hearing on Social Security.

Cassidy is a long-time cosponsor of the Social Security Fairness Act in the Senate, being an original cosponsor since he became a Member of Congress in 2009. He led the introduction of the legislation in the 117th and 116th Congress.

Cassidy led a bipartisan working group to preserve and protect Social Security. Last spring, he released the inaugural Bill on the Hill video where he asked Capitol Hill visitors from across the country their thoughts on the looming benefit cuts to Social Security and presented his “Big Idea.”

In March, Cassidy grilled U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on President Biden’s plan to address Social Security, to which Secretary Yellen admitted “the president doesn’t have a plan,” to save Social Security.

Cassidy has discussed the “Big Idea” at a public forum with AARP on the future of Social Security, outlined his Social Security plan in a fireside chat with the Bipartisan Policy Committee, and authored op-eds in the National Review and Washington Examiner in October, the Wall Street Journal in March, and State Affairs, and Washington Post in May.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cruz-bill-to-rename-plano-va-clinic-in-honor-of-congressman-sam-johnson-heads-to-presidents-desk/,"Cornyn, Cruz Bill to Rename Plano VA Clinic in Honor of Congressman Sam Johnson Heads to President’s Desk",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) released the following statements after their legislation, which would designate the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) community-based outpatient clinic in Plano, Texas, as the “U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson Memorial VA Clinic,” passed the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk:

“Sam Johnson was an American hero, a statesman, a loving husband and father, and a friend,” said Sen. Cornyn. “With more than five decades of service to our nation in the Air Force and Congress, Sam’s life was a shining example of American patriotism, and I am glad that my Senate colleagues have passed this legislation to preserve his extraordinary legacy.”

“I’m proud to have worked with Senator Cornyn to rename this facility the Sam Johnson Memorial VA Clinic, honoring Congressman Johnson’s unwavering service to our nation, our veterans, and Texas military families,”said Sen. Cruz.“The renaming of this facility reflects our commitment to deepening and embodying those values.”

The legislation was led in the House of Representatives by Congressman Keith Self (TX-03).

Background:

Born in 1930 in San Antonio, Sam Johnson served in the Air Force for 29 years. He flew combat missions in Korea and Vietnam, earning several valor awards and two purple hearts for wounds received in action. In 1966, he was shot down on his 25th combat mission in Vietnam and held as a prisoner of war for seven years, with much of that time served in solitary confinement. He returned to Texas after the war, serving in the Texas House of Representatives until successfully running for U.S. Congress in 1991.

Rep. Johnson was a long-time member of the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means and has a room named in his honor in the Rayburn House Office Building. He retired from Congress in 2019 and passed away in 2020 at the age of 89 in Plano, Texas.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-provision-to-provide-relief-for-south-texas-farmers-amp-ranchers-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Provision to Provide Relief for South Texas Farmers & Ranchers Signed Into Law,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after his provision granting the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture the authority to issue block grants to farmers and ranchers in South Texas who have been impacted by Mexico’s failure to provide water as obligated by the 1944 Water Treaty was signed into law as part of the government funding bill:

“I am relieved that this provision to authorize grants to South Texas farmers and ranchers has been signed into law,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Mexico’s repeated delayed water deliveries and refusal to live up to its obligations in the 1944 Water Treaty have devastated South Texas farmers and ranchers for far too long, and this new authority will help provide much-needed economic relief to agriculture communities in South Texas.”

Background:

This measure was included in the continuing resolution, which Senator Cornyn supported.

Under the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande, Mexico is obligated to deliver an average of 350,000 acre-feet of water annually over a five-year cycle as its contribution to the Rio Grande’s water supply. However, Mexico has consistently delayed fulfilling its water obligation until the end of the five-year cycle, which hinders South Texas farmers and ranchers from being able to plan for and grow crops. As of November 2024, Mexico is behind approximately 980,000 acre-feet on water deliveries.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-legislation-to-avert-government-shutdown-extend-farm-bill,"Senate Passes Legislation to Avert Government Shutdown, Extend Farm Bill",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here to download audio.***

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate passed a continuing resolution by a vote of 85 to 11 today, extending current government funding levels for three months, authorizing a one-year farm bill extension, and securing vital farm and disaster aid. The legislation, which extends appropriations levels through March 14, passed the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 366 to 34.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) issued the following statement after voting in favor of the legislation:

“While the passage of the bill is obviously important to avoid a government shutdown and of course to pass some priorities for North Dakota, it had better be the last time we do it this way. This is not how you should run the legislative branch and our constituents deserve a lot better than this incompetence and this dysfunction that we’ve seen these last few days and hours. I look forward to new leadership in Congress when Republicans become the majority in the Senate and Donald Trump occupies the White House.”

This package includes funding and authorizations to support programs and initiatives benefitting North Dakota and the nation. The following provisions are included in the package:

Extends the 2018 Farm Bill, Provides Economic Assistance for Farmers

The continuing resolution extends the 2018 Farm Bill for one year, giving Congress another year to provide farmers and ranchers with a much-needed, new, and improved Farm Bill with an adequate farm safety net. This extension protects critical commodity programs which provide financial support to producers in the event of price or revenue declines, extends trade facilitation programs designed to expand markets for American crops, and continues providing specialty crop block grants to state departments of agriculture.

This bill provides substantial financial relief for farmers impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. It authorizes nearly $31 billion for agricultural aid, including $21 billion for the Emergency Relief Program for agricultural losses due to natural disaster in 2023 and 2024, and $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers to account for low commodity prices and high interest rates. This funding includes $2 billion set aside for livestock losses due to drought, wildfires, and floods, $828 million for the Emergency Conservation Program to rehabilitate damaged farmland, and $920 million for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program to address flood and erosion damages. The legislation also directs $362.5 million toward rural development disaster assistance to help rebuild infrastructure in rural communities and allocates $220 million in state block grants to support disaster recovery efforts.

Provides Disaster Aid

It’s been a difficult year, particularly for citizens in the southeast who experienced Hurricane Milton and Helen. In response to recent flooding, wildfires, and other natural disasters, this funding measure provides $100 billion in disaster relief assistance and includes allocations for infrastructure repair and rebuilding. Nearly $29 billion will go to the disaster relief fund at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, with $8 billion allocated towards rebuilding highways and bridges, and $2.2 billion to low-interest loans for businesses to assist in recovery.

Secures Key National Defense Provisions

As the U.S. Navy seeks to strengthen the submarine industrial base, this legislation supports nearly $5.7 billion for the Virginia-class submarine program and for workforce, wage, and non-executive salary improvements for other nuclear-powered vessel programs. Additionally, it provides funding for the Columbia-class submarine program, with $3 billion for the regular procurement of Columbia-class submarines, and almost $6 billion for advanced procurement. As Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Subcommittee on Seapower, Cramer has championed legislation and initiatives to bolster the Navy’s capabilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/12/21/2024/crapo-statement-on-continuing-resolution,Crapo Statement on Continuing Resolution,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) issued the following statement after voting against the Continuing Resolution (CR) to extend government funding through March 14, 2025:

“This CR is yet another bandaid on our nation’s growing fiscal crisis. This stopgap solution fails to follow our annual budget and appropriations process, usurping the vested oversight and authority of Congress.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-elaine-cleggs-appointment-to-amtrak-board,Crapo Statement on Elaine Clegg’s Appointment to Amtrak Board,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed Elaine Clegg as a member of the Amtrak Board of Directors.

“Elaine Clegg’s appointment gives Idaho a voice on the Amtrak Board,” said Crapo. “She has been a great champion for expanding Amtrak service back into Idaho for many years, and I look forward to her tenure in this new role.”

The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation approved Clegg’s nomination to the Amtrak Board of Directors on December 12, 2024.

Clegg currently serves as the CEO of Valley Regional Transit. She served on the Boise City Council for nearly 20 years. Clegg has led various efforts to reestablish passenger rail in Idaho and the greater Northwest. She has held the Chair or President position on the boards of Valley Regional Transit, the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho, the Association of Idaho Cities at the state level, the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations and the National League of Cities Transportation Infrastructure Services Committee nationally.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-releases-statement-on-passage-of-government-funding,Sen. Cruz Releases Statement on Passage of Government Funding,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement regarding passage of a continuing resolution to fund the government through March 14, 2025:

“I voted for this resolution to ensure our government remains fully operational and ready to hit the ground running on day one of President Trump’s administration. The American people made their voices loud and clear—they support bold, decisive change. This funding measure allows Congress to immediately get to work confirming President Trump’s nominees and implement the policies Texans and Americans overwhelmingly voted for.

“I am pleased to have secured critical relief for Texans in this bill. I championed a provision that ensures South Texas agricultural producers suffering from Mexico’s blatant failure to meet its obligations under the 1944 Treaty on Utilization of Waters of the Colorado, Tijuana, and Rio Grande Rivers. This funding will provide immediate relief for hardworking Texans.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2024/12/21/thanks-president-trump-for-eliminating-wasteful-spending-in-monstrous-bill/,"Daines Secures Pay for Troops Over the Holidays, Farm Bill Extension, Funding to Repair St. Mary’s",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Thanks President Trump for Eliminating Wasteful Spending in Monstrous Bill

U.S. Senator Steve Daines today voted on the Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded through March 14, 2025.

Download Daines’ video statement HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-secures-disaster-assistance-for-north-dakota-farmers-and-ranchers,Hoeven Secures Disaster Assistance for North Dakota Farmers and Ranchers,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven Secures Disaster Assistance for North Dakota Farmers and Ranchers

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after Congress passed $33.5 billion in disaster assistance for the nation’s farmers and ranchers. Hoeven worked to include the agriculture assistance as part of negotiations to fund the government. The bill also provides a one-year extension of the Farm Bill.

“Our farmers and ranchers have faced severe challenges this year from both market conditions as well as wildfires and other natural disasters. This assistance for our producers is vital to keep their operations going and ensure that Americans continue to have access to high quality, low cost food,” said Hoeven “This assistance was necessary given the Democrats’ unwillingness to pass a farm bill that updated reference prices. We’ll continue our efforts to pass a strong farm bill that strengthens the farm safety net and keeps the farm in the farm bill.”

As the Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured funding to help address producer losses resulting from natural disasters and challenging markets. The package includes $10 billion to help farmers mitigate economic losses in 2024, $21 billion to assist farmers and ranchers experiencing losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 and an additional $2.5 billion for other agriculture disaster needs including assistance for Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facilities damaged by recent hurricanes.

North Dakota producers are estimated to receive more than $600 million for market losses. Specifically, the bill includes $2 billion for livestock losses including those due to wildfire, as well as $3 million to help domestic sugar producers by validating the testing of molasses imports at ports of entry to prevent the import of illegal sugar.

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-space-force-awards-additional-10-million-to-test-and-develop-satellite-to-ground-secure-communications-network,Hoeven: Space Force Awards Additional $10 Million to Test and Develop Satellite-To-Ground Secure Communications Network,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Space Force Awards Additional $10 Million to Test and Develop Satellite-To-Ground Secure Communications Network

Funding Supports the Ongoing Work of Grand Forks’ Low-Earth Orbit Satellite Mission

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Space Force has awarded a nearly $10 million contract modification to General Dynamics toward the company’s efforts to advance the Space Networking Center and satellite mission at the Grand Forks Air Force Base. Specifically, these funds will be used to test and develop a data traffic network serving the low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite mission. The project’s goal is to enable interoperability between the new space-based communications system and existing ground-based systems and ensure efficient data traffic as more missions are tied into the network, while keeping the mission information secure.

“This additional $10 million in funding will help support a critical aspect of the LEO satellite mission – ensuring the secure and efficient movement of mission-critical information,” said Hoeven. “Under this award, General Dynamics will test and develop systems that can integrate the first tranche of LEO satellites into the DoD’s communications network. Doing so will lay the groundwork for missions to begin utilizing the satellite communications network and cementing Grand Forks’ central role in supporting military operations around the globe.”

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-efforts-secure-disaster-market-aid-forestall-farm-crisis,"HYDE-SMITH EFFORTS SECURE DISASTER, MARKET AID TO FORESTALL FARM CRISIS",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"Hyde-Smith Votes to Provide Aid to Farmers Stressed by Low Prices, High Input Costs, Dire Financing Outlook

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) early Saturday morning voted for a final agreement that will provide $10 billion in market loss assistance for farmers in Mississippi and around the country who are threatened by economic stresses that threaten the strength of U.S. agriculture.

Hyde-Smith, who serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee and Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, welcomed final approval of the aid following difficult negotiations to finalize a funding agreement to avoid a government shutdown and address natural and economic disasters.

“The bottom line is that Congress is finally doing the right thing for America’s farmers and rural Americans. I expect this ad hoc market loss assistance will make a difference for farmers in Mississippi and elsewhere who would otherwise not be able to plant again next year,” Hyde-Smith said.

“This assistance should serve as a lifeline while, with some determination and focus, we can finally enact a new Farm Bill that includes updated safety net programs for our farmers,” Hyde-Smith added. “I look forward to working with incoming Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to ensure swift implementation of the disaster aid, because time is of the essence.”

Hyde-Smith has for months been working with incoming Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.), incoming Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine), and others to demand Congress act to approve ad hoc assistance to avoid an imminent economic disaster in rural America.

As of early December, crop economic losses nationally exceeded $31 billion from all major commodities for 2024, including cotton, soybeans, corn, rice, and peanuts. Such losses in Mississippi have averaged $145.04 on more than 3.62 million acres, amounting to at least $525.8 million in losses this year.

Hyde-Smith indicated Mississippi agricultural interests could also benefit from natural disaster relief in the legislation for farmers harmed by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Federal Emergency Management Agency have certified that Mississippi experienced multiple types of natural disasters in this time period, including freezes, tornadoes, severe storms, flooding, high winds, and drought.

Natural disaster funding in the bill includes $357 million for the Emergency Forest Restoration Program, $828 million for the Emergency Conservation Program, and $920 million for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program.

In the months leading up to passage of the agriculture disaster funding agreement, Hyde-Smith met with Mississippi stakeholders, advocated for aid at Senate hearing, and delivered a floor speech explaining to her colleagues why Congress should provide both natural disaster and market loss assistance for farmers across the country or risk worsening a crisis that will cost taxpayers billions of dollars more in the future.

Finally, Hyde-Smith sided with Boozman and House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) in signaling their intent to oppose any supplemental spending package that failed to provide meaningful economic assistance to farmers.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=445D5226-04C7-4C4B-BD70-E3A61230B88B,Graham Applauds Passage of Hurricane Helene Relief,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after the Senate passed legislation to fund the government, which included $110 billion in disaster relief for communities affected by droughts and Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

On Thursday, Graham joined U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) and Ted Budd (R-North Carolina) to urge Congress to pass disaster relief before the end of the year.

“I am extremely pleased that the Senate overwhelmingly supported disaster relief for hard-hit South Carolinians and many others. My top priority was to ensure the much-needed disaster relief package was not delayed any further.

“While this package ultimately did not include a debt limit deal, I was supportive of the effort and would have voted for it.

“This bill funds the government, provides urgently needed disaster aid, helps our farmers, and will give some hope and relief to those who have lost so much.”

####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/12/21/2024/murkowski-never-ever-a-time-when-a-government-shutdown-is-a-good-thing-for-americans-or-alaskans,"Murkowski: “Never, Ever a Time When a Government Shutdown is a Good Thing for Americans or Alaskans”",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=10,scraper,"Washington, DC – Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) supported a stopgap package that extends the federal government funding deadline to March 14, 2025, thus avoiding a costly and unnecessary government shutdown while also providing critical disaster recovery funds for communities across the country. This package garnered bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress and included $300 million to refill the U.S. Department of Commerce’s fishery disaster assistance accounts, which Senator Murkowski was instrumental in securing.

“There is never, ever a time when a government shutdown is a good thing for Americans or Alaskans. I’m relieved that cooler heads prevailed and a needless shutdown was avoided,” said Senator Murkowski. “Additionally, I was able to secure several critical provisions that will help Alaskans, including a desperately needed $300 million that will refill our fisheries disaster account, ensuring that our hardworking fishermen will have the support they need to get back on the water.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-celebrates-long-overdue-passage-of-social-security-fairness-act,Murkowski Celebrates Long-Overdue Passage of Social Security Fairness Act,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=10,scraper,"Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) announced that the Senate passed H.R. 82 The Social Security Fairness Act tonight in a bipartisan vote of 76-20. This legislation repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which have reduced the amount of Social Security benefits accessible to select federal, state, local employees, and to their spouses and survivors. Senator Murkowski has been a longstanding supporter of the Social Security Fairness Act since her arrival to the Senate, co-sponsoring the legislation every year since 2003. H.R. 82 is the companion bill to S. 597, introduced in the Senate. The bill will now go to the President for his signature.

“I have been working on the Social Security Fairness Act for as long as I’ve been representing Alaska in the United States Senate,” Senator Murkowski said. “There is no doubt that Congress has taken too long to address this inequity, but I am grateful to the diligent bipartisan work of my colleagues to help us finally get this over the finish line. This legislation takes care of Alaskans who have dedicated years of service to our communities, serving in integral roles such as teachers, firefighters, and police officers. Hardworking public servants should not be denied the benefits that they paid for because of their career choices, and I’m relieved that this longstanding injustice has been remedied.”

""The Alaska AFL-CIO and all of its affiliated unions are elated with the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. The GPO/ WEP provisions have existed for far too long impacting the lives of thousands of Alaska workers and their heirs,” said Joelle Hall, President of Alaska AFL-CIO. Punishing public employees and their heirs for dedicating their lives to their community is wrong and we want to thank Senator Murkowski for her long-standing support for fixing this policy that has hurt so many families.""

“Today’s vote is incredibly welcome news to thousands of Alaska’s current and former public employees who have been unfairly punished simply for their public service,” said Heidi Drygas, Executive Director of ASEA/AFSCME Local 52. “We thank Senator Murkowski for her leadership on this critically important issue for our membership. So many Alaska families will breathe easier tonight knowing they will receive the full retirement that they deserve. Thank you to the thousands of AFSCME employees and retirees for their decades of persistent advocacy on this issue.”

“Alaska’s law enforcement personnel have worked too hard and put too much on the line in service of our communities to not receive their fully deserved Social Security benefits,” said President Shaun Kuzakin, Public Safety Employees Association, Local 803. “I’m relieved that this long-standing injustice has been corrected and grateful to Senator Murkowski for her support for Alaska’s public safety employees.”

“Alaska's firefighters applaud Senator Murkowski for standing up for public workers across Alaska,” said Dominic Lozano, President of Alaska Professional Fire Fighters. “For too long the federal government has been withholding portions of our social security benefits unfairly. Senator Murkowski understands the importance of this legislation and has been advocating for Alaskans since she started in the Senate. Retirees throughout Alaska know the importance of this legislation as well as future generations of Alaskans who will now receive their full social security benefit.”

“Passage of H.R. 82 is historic and will immediately make a positive difference in the lives of thousands of former military members, public servants and educators. We’re grateful that Senator Murkowski has been fighting alongside Alaska’s educators on this issue for her entire career in the US Senate,” said Kathy Simpler, Director of the National Education Association-Alaska.

“More than 17,000 former public servants in Alaska, and over 2.8 million nationally, are unfairly penalized by WEP and GPO. With this Senate vote, backed by Senator Murkowski, we will finally receive the full benefits we earned through our hard work. The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) will be forever grateful for Senator Murkowski’s leadership in the effort to repeal WEP and GPO, which NARFE has been advocating for 40 years,” said Paul McIntosh, President of the National Active and Retired Employees Association.

Background:

The WEP, enacted in 1983, reduces the Social Security benefits of workers who receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government for employment not covered by Social Security. The GPO, enacted in 1977, reduces Social Security spousal benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers whose spouses receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government. Together, these provisions reduce Social Security benefits for nearly 3 million Americans – including those who worked teachers, state employees, and public safety officers. Alaska is one of the most disproportionately and negatively affected states per capita by the WEP and GPO.

The Social Security Fairness Act has been endorsed by the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations Alaska (AFL-CIO Alaska), Alaska Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA), Alaska Professional Fighters Association (APFA), National Education Association – Alaska (NEA-A), National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association Alaska (NARFE Alaska), Alaska State Employees Association (ASEA), Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Committee to Preserve Social Security & Strengthen Medicare (NCPSSM), Social Security Works, Strengthen Social Security Coalition, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Union of Police Association (IUPA), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), National Education Association (NEA), and the Senior Citizens League.

Below is a timeline of previous iterations of the legislation that Senator Murkowski has co-sponsored.

Timeline:

March 2023: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 597 the Social Security Fairness Act in the 118th Congress.

April 2021: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 1302 Social Security Fairness Act in the 117th Congress.

February 2019: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 521 Social Security Fairness Act of 2019 in the 116th Congress.

April 2017: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 915 Social Security Fairness Act of 2017 in the 115th Congress.

June 2015: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 1651 Social Security Fairness Act of 2015 in the 114th Congress.

May 2013: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 896 Social Security Fairness Act of 2013 in the 113th Congress.

December 2011: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 2010 Social Security Fairness Act of 2011 in the 112th Congress.

February 2009: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 484 Social Security Fairness Act of 2009 in the 111th Congress.

January 2007: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 206 Social Security Fairness Act of 2007 in the 110th Congress.

March 2005: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S.619 Social Security Fairness Act of 2005 in the 109th Congress.

February 2003: Senator Murkowski co-sponsors S. 349 The Social Security Fairness Act of 2003 in the 108th Congress.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-never-ever-a-time-when-a-government-shutdown-is-a-good-thing-for-americans-or-alaskans,"Murkowski: “Never, Ever a Time When a Government Shutdown is a Good Thing for Americans or Alaskans”",2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=10,scraper,"Washington, DC – Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) supported a stopgap package that extends the federal government funding deadline to March 14, 2025, thus avoiding a costly and unnecessary government shutdown while also providing critical disaster recovery funds for communities across the country. This package garnered bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress and included $300 million to refill the U.S. Department of Commerce’s fishery disaster assistance accounts, which Senator Murkowski was instrumental in securing.

“There is never, ever a time when a government shutdown is a good thing for Americans or Alaskans. I’m relieved that cooler heads prevailed and a needless shutdown was avoided,” said Senator Murkowski. “Additionally, I was able to secure several critical provisions that will help Alaskans, including a desperately needed $300 million that will refill our fisheries disaster account, ensuring that our hardworking fishermen will have the support they need to get back on the water.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-announces-new-committee-assignments/,Ricketts Announces New Committee Assignments,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"December 21, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his committee assignments for the 119th Congress. Ricketts will serve on four committees. He will continue to serve on the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works and the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. He will also join the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget.

“After four years of overregulation, an appeasement-first foreign policy, and reckless spending, it’s time to get our country back on track,” Ricketts said. “On the Environment and Public Works Committee I’ll fight to give Nebraska families relief, not regulation. On the Foreign Relations Committee I’ll help President Trump restore American strength on the world stage. Only through strength can we deter our adversaries and prevent future conflicts.”

“I’m honored by the opportunity to use my business experience on the Budget and Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committees,”Ricketts continued. “These committees will play an important role in extending the Trump tax cuts, controlling our spending, and providing regulatory relief to job-creators. I’m excited to work with President Trump and my colleagues to deliver conservative solutions for Nebraskans.”

BACKGROUND

U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works is responsible for legislation and oversight of the natural and built environment and for studying matters concerning environmental protection and resource conservation and utilization. This includes oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations is instrumental in developing, influencing, and overseeing U.S. foreign policy. The Committee considers, debates, and reports important treaties and legislation involving everything from foreign aid to arms sales to international organizations like the United Nations. It overseas the U.S. State Department and holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations, including the U.S. Secretary of State. Ricketts will be the second highest ranking Republican on the Committee.

U.S. Senate Committee on the Budget is responsible for drafting budget plans for Congress. It also monitors and enforces rules surrounding spending, revenue, and the federal budget. The Committee’s primary responsibility is to develop a concurrent resolution on the budget to serve as the framework for congressional action on spending, revenue, and debt-limit legislation. This includes jurisdiction over the budget reconciliation process. The Committee also has oversight of the president’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-comments-on-government-funding-bill/,Ricketts Comments on Government Funding Bill,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Pete Ricketts,R000618,www.ricketts.senate.gov,ricketts,https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list&pagenum=,scraper,"December 21, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) issued the following statement after voting for a Continuing Resolution to fund the federal government through March 14 and extend the Farm Bill by one year.

“This bill avoids a government shutdown and supports Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers. It gives them the certainty and assistance they need to make crucial decisions. I’m committed to working with President Trump and my colleagues to pass a comprehensive, five-year farm bill next year.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2024/12/senate-passes-sen-rick-scott-s-fishes-act-to-bolster-disaster-relief-for-fisheries,Senate Passes Sen. Rick Scott’s FISHES Act to Bolster Disaster Relief for Fisheries,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott announced the Senate passage of his Fishery Improvement to Streamline Untimely Regulatory Hurdles post Emergency Situation Act (FISHES Act), which he led with Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). The FISHES Act will improve the federal regulatory process associated with the allocation of fishery disaster relief and expedite the distribution of federal relief following official fishery disaster declarations—which the State of Florida has requested seven times since 2012. This legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

The FISHES Act passed in the House of Representatives earlier this year where it was led by Congressman Byron Donalds (R-Fla.). Representative Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) co-led the bill in the House, which had bipartisan cosponsors, including Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.), Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Neal Dunn (R-Fla.), Troy Carter (D-La.), Troy Nehls (R-Texas), James Moylan (R-Guam), John Rutherford (R-Fla.), Daniel Webster (R-Fla.), Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-America Samoa), Clay Higgins (R-La.) and Brian Mast (R-Fla.).

Senator Rick Scott said, “Floridians know better than anyone that when disaster strikes, families and small businesses can’t be left wondering whether the federal government is going to show up. I’m proud that the FISHES Act has passed the Senate and finally heads to the president’s desk so we can ensure our fishing industry in Florida and across the country has a reliable partner in Washington.”

Congressman Byron Donalds said, “For years, fishery disaster determinations across our nation have been left pending due to bureaucratic inaction. This includes the catastrophic devastation caused by Hurricane Ian in our Southwest Florida community. This is a national problem; this is wrong; this must change; and this is why I introduced ‘The FISHES Act’ alongside Senator Rick Scott to expedite fishery disaster relief to communities in need. Thank you to my colleagues in the United States Senate for advancing this critical legislation to the President’s desk. Government must put the American people first and I am proud to stand-up for coastal communities across our nation.”

Specifically, the FISHES Act:

Seeks to improve the federal regulatory processes associated with fishery disaster relief funding within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB); and

Cuts red tape by enacting a 90-day decision requirement for NOAA, in coordination with OMB, to deny/approve the State’s spending plan, which will ultimately expedite the federal fishery disaster relief funding process overall.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2024/12/tillis-votes-to-pass-helene-recovery-funding-for-north-carolina,Tillis Votes to Pass Helene Recovery Funding For North Carolina,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NC,Thom Tillis,T000476,www.tillis.senate.gov,tillis,https://www.tillis.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Senate passed a bipartisan government funding bill that includes more than $100 billion in disaster relief for states and communities hit by natural disasters, including North Carolina during Hurricane Helene.

“I'm proud to have worked alongside my Senate colleagues to secure this critical funding for Western North Carolina,” said Senator Tillis. “I remain committed to working with the outgoing Biden Administration and the incoming Trump Administration to ensure these resources reach Western North Carolina as expeditiously as possible. This is a significant downpayment to help make Western North Carolina whole again.”

For months, Senator Tillis has worked with Congressional leaders and appropriators to deliver on the $100 billion appropriation. Senator Tillis also successfully secured a number of key provisions in the legislation, including mandates to deliver federal assistance to Western North Carolina sooner.

Provisions secured by Senator Tillis include:

Requiring the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to issue a Federal Register notice by January 15, 2025, of enactment for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) so funding can flow to North Carolina more quickly. Federal Register notices have often taken 12-24 months after previous authorizations.

Replenishing funding for the SBA’s disaster loan program to help homeowners and small business owners rebuild, which Tillis has been pushing since funding expired. There are currently 2,338 applicants waiting for their application to be processed, totaling $172 million.

North Carolina is expected to receive at least $9 billion in assistance, and that does not include FEMA assistance, which is likely to be an additional billions of dollars. Assistance coming to North Carolina will include:

CDBG-DR funding to help local communities recover and rebuild.

Economic assistance and disaster payments and economic assistance for farmers affected by Helene.

A significant investment to repair and rebuild the roads, highways, bridges, and other infrastructure damaged by Helene.

Major investments in North Carolina’s drinking water infrastructure.

While specific funding levels for states will be based on need, the legislation provides the following funding at the national level:

Department of Agriculture – $33.5 billion, including:

$21 billion for disaster assistance to farmers and producers.

$10 billion for economic assistance to farmers and producers.

$7.5 million for the Office of the Inspector General to provide funding oversight.

$42.5 million for the Agriculture Research Service to repair or replace facilities damaged by hurricanes.

$828 million for the Emergency Conservation Program to provide financial and technical assistance to address farmland impacted by natural disasters.

$920 million for the Emergency Watershed Protection Program to provide financial and technical assistance to address impaired watersheds posing a risk to life or property.

$356.5 million for the Emergency Forest Restoration Program to assist private forest owners restore forests damaged by natural disasters.

$362.5 million for the Rural Development Disaster Assistance Fund to provide assistance to rural communities affected by natural disasters.

$25 million for the Commodity Assistance Program to address facilities damaged by natural disasters.

Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration

$1.5 billion for economic development assistance for areas impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.

Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – $1.04 billion, including:

$244 million for repair and replacement of observing assets, real property, and equipment, including rebuilding the Beaufort, NC laboratory.

$399 million for hurricane hunter aircraft and related expenses.

Department of Homeland Security – $30.83 billion, including:

$29 billion for the Disaster Relief Fund, including $4 million for the Office of Inspector General to carry out oversight.

Department of the Interior – $3 billion, for expenses related to the consequences of disasters occurring in and prior to calendar year 2024, including:

$2.3 billion for the National Park Service, which includes $50 million for the Historic Preservation Fund and $1.7 billion to rebuild the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Environmental Protection Agency – $3.3 billion, for expenses related to the consequences of Hurricanes Helene, Hilary, and Milton, and Hawaii wildfires, including:

$3.25 billion for State and Tribal Assistance Grants, of which $1.2 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund program, $1.8 billion for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, $85 million for decentralized water systems, $60 million to address water emergencies, $10 million for Clean Air Act Section 103 grants, and $95 million for hazardous waste financial assistance grants.

Forest Service

$6.4 billion, for expenses related to the consequences of disasters occurring in calendar years 2022, 2023, and 2024, including $208 million for State, Private, and Tribal Forestry.

Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families – $500 million for Child Care, including:

$250 million for renovation and repairs of child care facilities that were damaged by natural disasters, as well as temporary services for children in affected areas.

Department of Transportation

$8 billion for Federal Highways Administration emergency relief to reimburse states and territories for damage from natural disasters to roads and bridges in the National Highway System.

Department of Housing and Urban Development

$12 billion for Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery to assist with the long-term housing, infrastructure and economic recovery needs for areas most impacted and distressed by a natural disaster.

Background

Senator Tillis has been pushing for federal assistance for Western North Carolina since the moment Helene made landfall.

On October 1, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.

On October 16, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the White House to rapidly submit a government funding request to Congress that will fully cover costs associated with clean-up and recovery following Hurricanes Helene and Milton so that affected communities could begin to heal. The Senators called for Congress to return to Washington from the October in-state work period to approve federal disaster relief legislation.

On October 23, 2024, The Hill published an op-ed by Senator Tillis addressed to members of Congress to step up and be proactive with long-term disaster recovery assistance.

On October 29, 2024, Senator Tillis and his colleagues announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program with families and small businesses across WNC unable to get loans approved until then. The Senators outlined their plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returned to session.

On November 14, 2024, Senator Tillis attempted to pass legislation to replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program through a unanimous consent request on the Senate floor, but was blocked by another Senator.

On November 15, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) immediately send a supplemental appropriation request to Congress to support the communities we represent, which were devastated after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The OMB sent the request to Congress a few days later.

On November 18, 2024, Senator Tillis introduced the standalone RELIEF Act to provide Hurricane relief to small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.

On November 20, 2024, Senator Tillis called on Congress to quickly pass Hurricane Helene relief during his testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

On November 21, 2024, Senator Tillis met with Governor Cooper, Governor-Elect Stein, members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation and the North Carolina General Assembly, and local leaders from Western North Carolina to discuss efforts to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

On December 5, 2024, Senator Tillis joined Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto where he discussed the urgent need for Congress to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.

On December 10, 2024, Senator Tillis hosted N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, N.C. House of Representatives Speaker-elect Destin Hall, State Senators Bill Rabon and Ralph Hise, and State Representative Dudley Greene to discuss efforts to provide immediate assistance to North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene’s devastation.

On December 18, 2024, Senator Tillis committed to filibustering any continuing resolution that did not include disaster aid for Western North Carolina.

In addition to Senator Tillis’ legislative efforts the Senator has met with local leaders, residents, and elected officials across Western North Carolina including in: Asheville, Black Mountain, Boone, Burnsville, Canton, Clyde, Fairview, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Hot Springs, Marshall, Morganton, Spruce Pine, Swannanoa, Waynesville and Wilkesboro.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2024/12/senator-wicker-statement-on-continuing-resolution-s-damage-to-national-defense/bcd92899-cdda-47f5-85c7-82a9e9b6f969,Senator Wicker Statement on Continuing Resolution’s Damage to National Defense,2024-12-21,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to prevent a government shutdown and give lawmakers until March 2025 to reach an agreement on a long-term funding plan.

U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1183,"TSA Commuting Fairness Act, First Bill Introduced by Congressman Kennedy, Approved In House",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"During debate for the TSA Commuting Fairness Act, Rep. Kennedy said in part, “Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees face some unique challenges when commuting to work, however. Many employees find housing they can afford far from airports, leading to long commutes with limited public transit options and heavy traffic. Upon arrival at the airport, employees often must park in an employee lot and wait for irregular shuttles to bring them to the airport terminal, where they may have to walk a long distance to the security checkpoint to clock in for work. According to the Government Accountability Office, TSOs have reported that just getting from the parking lot to the checkpoint to clock in for work can take as long as 45 minutes. If these hardworking civil servants are just a few minutes late to clock in, they can face discipline and punishment. My bill, the TSA Commuting Fairness Act, would help provide fairer conditions for these employees as they commute to work to secure our transportation systems.”

“TSA employees deserve fair compensation for their time on airport property,” said American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) TSA Council 100 President Hydrick Thomas. “Congressman Kennedy’s legislation is an important step in ensuring that our 45,000 members are made whole for their on-site commutes. Our members keep our skies safe each and every day and deserve to be recognized for their hard work.”

The bill was led through the House Committee on Homeland Security by Congressman Kennedy on June 12, 2024. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration and approval.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/crime/blackburn-ossoff-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff-passes-senate,"Blackburn, Ossoff Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Passes Senate",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the Senate passed the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates:

“Last year, nearly half of surveyed Bureau of Prisons staff stated they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by an inmate. This statistic is appalling and unacceptable. No federal employee or law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work, and I’m pleased to see the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act move one step closer to becoming law,” said Senator Blackburn.

“I remain focused on oversight of the Federal prison system and ending sexual abuse in prisons and jails, including the abuse of prison staff. Senator Blackburn and I brought Republicans and Democrats together to pass this bipartisan bill to help end sexual abuse in Federal prisons,” said Senator Ossoff.

BACKGROUND:

According to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate.

The 2023 report found that the BOP has inadequate data on inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and has not been able to fully ascertain the scope of this widespread problem. The report also made a number of significant recommendations for the BOP to implement to help the agency better understand and mitigate this nationwide problem.

At United States Penitentiary Thomson (USP Thomson) in Illinois, the American Federation of Government Employees reported that there had been over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in 2022 alone. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates.

This report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggest that BOP’s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees.

THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT:

The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act would require:

The BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General’s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and fully ascertaining the scope of the problem;

The DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and

The U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national standards for prevention, reduction, and punishment of sexual assault and harassment of BOP staff by inmates.

Senators Blackburn and Ossoff sent a letter to BOP Director Colette Peters requesting that BOP release information about inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment reporting procedures, correctional methods, and staff assistance programs.

Council of Prison Locals 33 National President Brandy Moore White wrote a letter expressing support for this legislation.

RELATED:

Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff

Blackburn, Ossoff Launch Inquiry to Protect Federal Prison Staff from Sexual Assault and Harassment

Click herefor bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-bennet-tillis-coons-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-domestic-semiconductor-supply-chains,"Blackburn, Bennet, Tillis, Coons Introduce Bill to Strengthen Domestic Semiconductor Supply Chains",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced the Strengthening Essential Manufacturing and Industrial (SEMI) Investment Act to expand tax incentives for semiconductor facilities to include upstream materials suppliers. This would help protect U.S. defense supply chains by supporting domestic investment and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China.

“Over the past few years, Communist China has dramatically ramped up its production of semiconductors, which power everything from cell phones to computers to trains,”said Senator Blackburn. “By expanding tax incentives for semiconductor facilities, the SEMI Investment Act would support investment right here at home and increase supply chain security.”

“The CHIPS and Science Act revitalized advanced domestic manufacturing and restored funding for cutting-edge research and development. But without sustained investment across the semiconductor supply chain, we risk undermining these important efforts,” said Senator Bennet. “The Strengthening Essential Manufacturing and Industrial Investment Act (SEMI) Investment Act will secure our supply chains and ensure companies across the semiconductor ecosystem are able to invest in and expand U.S. production.”

“Congress passed the CHIPS Act to support our entire domestic semiconductor supply chain,” said Senator Tillis. “It is crucial for our national security and economic resilience that we get this policy right and I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to ensure we reduce our reliance on our adversaries like China.”

“Semiconductors drive everything from smartphones to medical devices to automobiles, and countries that excel at manufacturing them will be stronger and more secure in the decades ahead,” said Senator Coons. “Expanding the semiconductor manufacturing investment tax credit—established by President Biden’s CHIPS and Science Act—will strengthen our semiconductor supply chain and advance us toward that goal.”

BACKGROUND:

Fueled by massive government subsidies, China’s state-controlled companies now dominate nearly 85% of global processing capacity for rare earth minerals used in semiconductor manufacturing.

Earlier this month, China imposed new export bans on rare earth materials like gallium, germanium, and antimony, which are key to semiconductor production.

Under current law, tax incentives are only available for facilities that directly produce semiconductors or manufacturing equipment. However, much of the upstream materials and components used in these facilities are sourced from China, leaving our critical supply chains vulnerable and heavily reliant on foreign adversaries.

SEMI INVESTMENT ACT:

To safeguard national security and counter China’s growing dominance in the semiconductor sector, the SEMI Investment Act would foster the development of a robust U.S.-based supply chain by expanding the tax credit to include upstream materials suppliers.

Expanding incentives to include upstream production would also bolster American innovation, create jobs, and ensure the resilience of this vital industry.

Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=D4341C4D-0E85-485E-95BA-44F88C7739C9,"Boozman, Heinrich Secure Final Passage of Bipartisan Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,AR,John Boozman,B001236,www.boozman.senate.gov,boozman,https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) helped secure Senate passage of their bipartisan Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act as part of the larger Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, recreation legislation that also passed the House and will now go to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

“Our youth deserve the opportunity to learn about and explore our national parks and develop an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our nation. I am proud to see my colleagues recognize the benefits of facilitating outdoor adventure and education for children and families. I look forward to the extension of this significant program,” said Boozman.

“As a father and a former outdoor educator, I know how much of a difference getting outside can make for our kids,” said Heinrich. “Since we passed my original Every Kid Outdoors Act into law five years ago, thousands of children and their families have been inspired to visit our public lands in New Mexico and all across the country. By keeping this program going, our public lands can continue serving as outdoor classrooms with endless opportunities for children to learn and families to make new memories.”

Starting in 2015, the U.S. Department of the Interior has offered fourth graders and their families free entrance to all federally managed public lands.

The authorization under the original legislation is currently scheduled to expire in 2026. Once signed into law, Boozman and Heinrich’s Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act will extend free access to national parks and other public lands to all American fourth grade students and their families through 2031.

The Every Kid Outdoors program has been wildly successful at encouraging tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America’s public lands, waters and historic sites, including national parks – more than 2,000 sites in all. In 2023, Every Kid Outdoors vouchers helped create free admission for 9,896 visits to public lands by Arkansans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/heinrich-capito-celebrate-final-passage-of-bipartisan-simplifying-outdoor-access-for-recreation-act,"Capito, Heinrich Celebrate Final Passage of Bipartisan Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) celebrated the Senate’s passage of their bipartisan Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act, legislation to improve the permitting process for outfitters, educational organizations, and community groups to access public land. The legislation was included in the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, recreation legislation that already passed in the House and will now go to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“Making it easier to explore and enjoy the incredible beauty of our public lands is a key priority, especially at home in West Virginia,” Senator Capito said. “I’m thrilled our SOAR Act has passed as part of the EXPLORE Act and now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law. Once officially law, it will reduce bureaucratic red tape and make commonsense changes to current permitting requirements that can discourage outfitters from utilizing our public lands and in turn, constrain economic development. These changes to federal public lands regulations will help support the outdoor recreation industry and benefit the local communities and economies that they serve.”

“Our public lands are where we go to camp under the stars, chase elk, and fish for trout in mountain streams,” Senator Heinrich said. “As a former guide myself, I know from experience how paperwork and bureaucracy can get in the way of getting outside. I’m proud that we have passed my bipartisan legislation to cut red tape to help small businesses and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy our public lands and continue growing economic development through outdoor recreation. We just made it easier for families, schools, and community groups to get outside and enjoy our public lands.”

The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act streamlines and improves the recreational permitting process for federal agencies:

Improves the process for issuing recreation permits by directing the agencies to eliminate duplicative processes, reduce costs, and shorten processing times.

Increases flexibility for outfitters, guides and other outdoor leaders by allowing them to engage in activities that are substantially similar to the activity specified in their permit.

Increases system transparency by directing agencies to notify the public when new recreation permits are available and requiring the agencies to provide timely responses to permit applicants.

Creates a pilot program for agencies to issue a single joint permit covering the lands of multiple agencies for trips involving more than one land management agency.

Reduces permit fees and cost recovery expenses for small businesses and organizations creating a de minimis exemption for cost recovery and requiring the proration of costs that apply to multiple permits.

Reduces barriers to access for state universities, city recreation departments, and school districts by waiving the permit indemnification requirement for entities that are prohibited from providing indemnification under state law.

The SOAR Act was supported by a wide range of organizations, including the Wilderness Society, American Mountain Guides Association, The Mountaineers, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, and the Outdoor Industry Association.

The bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Steven Daines (R-Mont.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.).

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/dod-awards-contracts-for-vital-projects-at-grand-forks-air-force-base,DOD Awards Contracts for Vital Projects at Grand Forks Air Force Base,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for audio.***

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) announced it awarded contracts to Gideon Contracting, LLC, and General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc., for two projects at Grand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB) in Grand Forks. The contracts will support two projects to improve the standard of living for airmen at GFAFB and further the Space Development Agency’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.

Specifically, the contracts will support the following projects:

A contract for $14,167,979 to Gideon Contracting, LLC for repairs to Bunch Hall Dorm 221. This contract provides for the contractor to furnish all labor, tools, materials, equipment, supervision, personnel, and all else necessary to manage and accomplish a comprehensive dorm renovation. Work will be performed at GFAFB and is expected to be completed by March 11, 2026. The 319th Contracting Squadron, GFAFB, is the contracting activity.

An additional $9,956,096 modification to a previously awarded contract to General Dynamics, a global aerospace and defense company. This contract will go towards a project supporting Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture ground management, integration, operation, and sustainment efforts. The work is expected to be completed by Sept. 30, 2029, and will be performed in Grand Forks, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Huntsville, Alabama. The Space Development Agency is the contracting activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/theodore-roosevelt-presidential-library-north-dakota-trust-lands-bills-pass-senate-unanimously,"Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, North Dakota Trust Lands Bills Pass Senate Unanimously",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for audio***

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two bills cosponsored by U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) passed the Senate unanimously. Cramer joined fellow North Dakota delegation members U.S. Senator John Hoeven and then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong in introducing the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act.

North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act

***Click here for audio***

This legislation authorizes North Dakota to relinquish its lands and minerals on Tribal Reservations to the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) in exchange for those in the state which are federally-owned. North Dakota holds more than 130,000 acres of minerals and over 31,000 surface acres within Tribal Reservations, though they are largely unavailable for development. At the same time, existing laws do not adequately accommodate land and mineral exchanges between the state and the federal government.

“As any North Dakotan knows, fragmented mineral rights complicate energy and mineral development,” said Cramer. “Our North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act is really an easy fix to federal and state land transfers to ensure we encourage more energy and resource development in the state.”

Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act

***Click here for audio***

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act authorizes funding for the library’s continued construction in Medora, and ensures the preservation of President Roosevelt’s history and legacy. It draws on established precedent of presidential libraries receiving federal funding via the Congressional appropriations process, as well as to receive artifacts from the federal government.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-rischbill-to-repair-urban-canals-passes-senate,"Crapo, Risch Bill to Repair Urban Canals Passes Senate",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch (both R-Idaho) applauded Senate passage of the Urban Canal Modernization Act, which would allow Bureau of Reclamation aging infrastructure funding to help address repairs for urban canals with extraordinary maintenance issues. Many western canals, like the New York Canal in Idaho’s Treasure Valley, have gone from being rural in nature to surrounded by urban infrastructure over time.

“The aging of urban canals could pose serious threats to adjacent communities,” said Crapo. “Providing resources to local canal managers will protect the growing residential and business area along the New York Canal in Boise.”

“Maintaining urban canals is critical to protect our communities and way of life in the West,” said Risch. “I’m pleased to see the Senate pass my Urban Canal Modernization Act, which is a commonsense fix to allow for much needed infrastructure repairs.”

In addition to Crapo and Risch, the Urban Canal Modernization Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon).

The New York Canal in Idaho, which conveys water from the Boise River 41 miles to Lake Lowell, was once surrounded by farmland. Today, it is located amid one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country. Converted agricultural land is common across the West, but poses challenges in regards to infrastructure updates. The New York Canal, like many urban canals, provides important agricultural and municipal uses, but also has extraordinary maintenance that comes at a much higher risk being surrounded by homes and businesses than the rural landscape that was primarily present when the canals were constructed.

These canals currently do not have easy access to funding to make these repairs as a result of their urban surroundings. The Urban Canal Modernization Act would fix this by allowing Reclamation funding to be used for certain urban canal maintenance issues.

?###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/senate-unanimously-approves-crapo-risch-bill-to-name-jerome-post-office-for-representative-maxine-bell,"Senate Unanimously Approves Crapo, Risch Bill to Name Jerome Post Office for Representative Maxine Bell",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ID,Mike Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,crapo,https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho) applaud the Senate’s unanimous passage of legislation to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 154 First Avenue East in Jerome, Idaho, as the ""Representative Maxine Bell Post Office.""

?Bell served in the Idaho House of Representatives from 1988 to 2018. During her 15 terms in the Idaho Legislature, Bell also served as the Co-Chair of the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC). Bell earned an Associate of Arts in library science from College of Southern Idaho. Bell also attended Idaho State University and worked as a librarian.

“Representative Bell’s wisdom and guidance leading JFAC has had a profound and lasting impact on the fiscal responsibility of the state of Idaho,” said Crapo. “Her prudence extends far past her work in the legislature, making her an esteemed leader in Jerome and beyond.”

“Representative Maxine Bell dedicated her life to serving her community and the people of Idaho,” said Risch. “Her remarkable 30-year tenure in the Idaho legislature brought about great progress for the Magic Valley and strengthened our state. I’m pleased to see the Senate approve the naming of the Representative Maxine Bell Post Office in Jerome, where her legacy will inspire generations of Idahoans.”

""I cannot think of a more deserving person for this honor, said City of Jerome Mayor Dave Davis. “Maxine epitomizes service as indicated by the many years that she represented our community in the Idaho State Legislature. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful person residing in our community. I am blessed to call her a friend and mentor. Thank you Maxine!""

“I am pleased that Senators Crapo and Risch sponsored legislation to honor Representative Maxine Bell,” said College of Southern Idaho President Dean Fisher. “Her life has been dedicated to improving the lives of Idahoans through the power of education. Her life has been, and continues to be, a life of service.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sen-cruz-issues-statement-after-congress-passes-water-resources-development-act,Sen. Cruz Issues Statement After Congress Passes Water Resources Development Act,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TX,Ted Cruz,C001098,www.cruz.senate.gov,cruz,https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement after Congress passed the 2024 Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA), which includes provisions he secured to support important infrastructure projects in Texas.

Following passage, Sen. Cruz said, “I am proud to secure so many key legislative priorities for the Lone Star State in the 2024 Water Resources Development Act. The provisions I championed will authorize new construction projects, keep ongoing projects on schedule, and boost economic growth for Texas and the United States.”

Read the full text of the bill here.

The following provisions impact the State of Texas:

Matagorda Ship Channel Improvement Project

Directs actions to address delays, including a Sense of Congress that the Secretary should expedite required documentation. If justified, the Secretary is directed to proceed directly to preconstruction, planning, engineering, and design.

Sabine-Neches Waterway Navigation Improvement Project

Directs the Secretary to expedite review and coordination of the Section 203 feasibility study for this project.

La Quinta Ship Channel Expansion Project

Directs the Secretary to expedite review and coordination of the Section 203 feasibility study for this project.

Galveston Bay Ship Channel Feasibility Study

Authorizes the Corps to study improving and deepening ship channels and barge lanes in the broader Galveston Bay area.

Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Coastal Resilience Program, Brazoria and Matagorda Counties

Authorizes the Corps to begin construction on the project to improve navigation of the waterway and repair and enhance the existing barrier system for hurricane and storm damage risk reduction.

Cedar Port Navigation and Improvement District Channel Deepening Project

Directs the Secretary to expedite review and coordination of the Section 203 feasibility study for this project.

Process to Release Excess Easements or Transfer of Excess Lands for Harris or adjacent counties

Directs the Army Corps to assist in converting a current placement area into a new or expanded container terminal.

Waco Lake

Directs the Secretary to expedite review and consider the City of Waco's request to participate in repairing the embankment adjacent to Waco Lake.

Matagorda Ship Channel Design Deficiency Cost Share

Sets the federal cost-share at 90% to correct design deficiencies in the Matagorda Ship Channel jetties.

Expedited Consideration of Future WRDA Projects

Allows for expedited consideration of standalone legislation to authorize one or more projects to advance to the next development stage.

Cost-Share Change to Navigation Construction Projects

Increases from 50-feet to 55-feet the existing 75% federal cost-share for navigation construction projects.

Red River Chloride Control Project

Reaffirms Congressional support for this project, providing water quality control to the City of Wichita Falls and Sheppard Air Force Base.

Cost-Share Change to Navigation Operations & Maintenance Projects

Increases from 50-feet to 55-feet the existing 100% federal cost-share for operations and maintenance navigation projects.

Operations and Maintenance Building in Galveston

Authorizes the design and construction of an operations and maintenance building for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Galveston.

New Office Construction in Corpus Christi

Authorizes the design and construction of an administration building, maintenance building, and covered boat house for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Corpus Christi.

Addicks and Barker Reservoirs

Authorizes modifications to the project for flood risk management.

Westside Creek, San Antonio Channel

Authorizes modifications to the project for ecosystem restoration.

Resacas ecosystem restoration, Brownsville

Provides the Secretary with the authority to extend pay flexibility to the non-Federal cost-share of the project.

Guadalupe County, including the City of Santa Clara

Authorizes a feasibility study for the project for flood risk management.

Halls Bayou, Harris County

Authorizes a feasibility study for the project for flood risk management and ecosystem restoration

Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Brazos River Floodgates and Colorado River Locks

Directs the Secretary to expedite the feasibility study for the project for navigation

Raymondville Drain Project, Lower Rio Grande Basin

Directs the Secretary to expedite the review and coordinate the feasibility study for the project for flood control.

Buffalo Bayou Tributaries and Resiliency Study

Instructs the Secretary to expedite the completion of the study while including recommendations that align with community objectives and deliver the final report by December 31, 2025.

Environmental Infrastructure

Authorizes funding under the Environmental Infrastructure account towards water and wastewater infrastructure for the following municipalities:

Austin

Amarillo

Brownsville

Clarendon

Quinlan

Runaway Bay

Webb County

Zapata County

Dallas County Region

San Antonio Channel, San Antonio

Modifies the existing project for flood control.

Lakes Program

Adds Falcon Lake of Zapata County and Lake Casa Blanca of Webb County to the Lakes Program.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2024/12/20/three-daines-outdoors-bills-pass-u-s-senate-head-to-presidents-desk/,"Three Daines Outdoors Bills Pass U.S. Senate, Head to President’s Desk",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Steve Daines today announced that the U.S. Senate unanimously passed several of his bipartisan outdoors bills, which will now head to the President’s desk. The bills support gateway communities, address challenges facing national parks and public lands, streamline the process for issuing special recreation permits for accessing public lands, and address housing needs in rural communities.

“I’m proud to see my bipartisan bills pass the U.S. Senate and head to the president’s desk to be signed into law. This package includes major wins for Montana’s beautiful public lands and I’ll always keep fighting for more ways to protect our outdoor way of life,” said Daines.

The following Daines bills were included in the larger “EXPLORE Act”:

“Gateway Community and Recreation Enhancement Act”

Daines’ bipartisan “Gateway Community and Recreation Enhancement Act” supports gateway communities and addresses challenges facing national parks and public lands like increased visitation and housing shortages, boosting visitation at lesser-known parks and recreation areas and requires a digital version of the America the Beautiful annual pass.

The bill was cosponsored by Senator Angus King in the Senate and led by Representatives Ryan Zinke and Mary Peltola in the House. Read the press release from its introduction in February 2023 HERE.

When the bill passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in May 2023,Daines said, “Montanans know how important our gateway communities are, and supporting the areas around our beautiful national parks and public lands is critical to Montana’s economy. I’ll keep working to get this bill across the finish line.”

“SOAR Act”

Daines’ bipartisan “Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act” streamlines the process for issuing special recreation permits for accessing public lands. Because Montana has a checkerboard land ownership pattern, and each federal land agency has a separet permitting process, guides and outfitters often have to go through multiple departments and permitting processes all for one trip. The “SOAR Act” helps increase access to public lands and support small businesses.

“Forest Flexible Housing Partnerships Act”

Daines’ bipartisan “Forest Flexible Housing Partnerships Act” reauthorizes a program that allows the Forest Service to lease existing underutilized administrative sites to address housing needs of rural communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=978A5288-0DA4-4648-93C1-53E94994913C,Fischer Announces Committee Assignments for 119th Congress,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) announced her committee assignments for the 119th Congress. She will continue serving on all six committees from the 118th Congress:

Armed Services

Appropriations

Commerce, Science, and Transportation

Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry

Rules and Administration

Select Committee on Ethics",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=CEB9131E-1A9E-4B3D-99F1-6AD72911FA94,Fischer Celebrates U.S. Victory In USMCA Dispute on GMO Corn,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,NE,Deb Fischer,F000463,www.fischer.senate.gov,fischer,https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after a dispute panel announced its finding that Mexico had violated its commitments under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) with its ban on GMO corn:

“I’ve been clear from the start –the United States would not accept Mexico’s unscientific ban against genetically modified corn. This ruling will hold Mexico accountable and prevent its blatant trade violation under the USMCA. This decision is a victory for family farmers, Mexican consumers, and the future of agricultural technology innovation. I look forward to working with President Trump and his administration to continue to hold Mexico accountable and ensure Nebraska’s farmers have access to the markets they rely on,”said Senator Fischer.

Under USMCA rules, Mexico has 45 days from the date of the report to comply with the ruling.

Background:

In 2022, Senator Fischer led 25 of her bipartisan Senate colleagues in calling for the administration to hold Mexico accountable, including by pursuing a dispute settlement process through USMCA.

In March of 2023, USTR requested and held technical consultations with Mexico. Technical consultations for biotechnology issues are required before any dispute settlement can be pursued.

That following June, Senator Fischer commended USTR’s decision to formally request dispute settlement consultations with Mexico concerning the country’s ban on genetically modified corn. Under the USMCA, member countries can request dispute settlement consultations to resolve trade compliance issues.

Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/12/fischer-celebrates-u-s-victory-in-usmca-dispute-on-gmo-corn",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/video-grassley-applauds-as-us-comes-out-on-top-in-mexico-corn-dispute,VIDEO: Grassley Applauds as U.S. Comes Out on Top in Mexico Corn Dispute,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today welcomed a dispute panel’s ruling under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to allow genetically-modified U.S. corn exports to Mexico. The panel sided with the U.S., confirming Mexico’s restrictions on genetically-modified corn exports are not based in science and violate the USMCA. Mexico now has 45 days to bring its trade policies into compliance.

Download Grassley’s video statement HERE.

Excerpts from Grassley’s statement follow:

“Today, the good news is this: the United States won the decision, before an independent board, that Mexico was violating the USMCA.

“This is a tremendous victory for Iowa corn growers, and it’s a tremendous victory for what we call decisions on international trade based on sound science, as opposed to political science.”

Background:

In 2020, then-Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador issued a decree to phase out Mexico’s use of genetically-modified corn by 2024. Following Grassley’s urging, the U.S. Trade Representative in 2023 officially challenged Mexico’s proposed ban. Today’s decision is the result of that challenge.

Iowa, the number one corn producer in the U.S., exports 16 million tons of corn to Mexico annually. Over 90 percent of all corn acreage in the U.S. is planted with genetically-engineered seeds.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hawley.senate.gov/hawley-denounces-tyson-foods-attempt-to-silence-farmers/,Hawley Denounces Tyson Foods’ Attempt to Silence Farmers,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MO,Josh Hawley,H001089,www.hawley.senate.gov,hawley,https://www.hawley.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Today, Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent a letter to Tyson Foods CEO Donnie King blasting the company’s efforts to allegedly silence Missouri farmers who sued the company following the closure and sale of the Dexter, Missouri chicken plant.

“You have previously stonewalled my efforts to learn the truth about your shutdown of poultry plants in Noel and Dexter, Missouri,” the Senator wrote. “Now, your company is apparently trying to deter injured farmers from speaking out against it. This is wrong and anti-American, and you must immediately stop.”

“An ongoing class-action lawsuit alleges that your company sold its shuttered Dexter plant to a non-competitor—Cal-Maine Foods—which produces table eggs rather than processing broiler chickens. This left local farmers, who built their farms around broiler chicken production, in a bind. And it happened after you previously assured me, on September 15, 2023, that you would not prevent a competitor from acquiring your closed plants,” Hawley continued.

Senator Hawley has been a vocal advocate for Missouri farmers. Earlier this year, he pressed King about needed transparency regarding the Dexter plant closure. This came after he secured a commitment from King to help local farmers and protect Missouri jobs that were at risk due to plant closures.

Last year, he introduced the Strengthening Antitrust Enforcement for Meatpacking Act to empower antitrust enforcers to break up giant meatpacking and poultry monopolies, giving farmers and workers more leverage.

Read the full letter here or below.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hawley.senate.gov/hawley-statement-on-release-of-illegal-alien-who-killed-missouri-boy-travis-wolfe/,Hawley Statement on Release of Illegal Alien Who Killed Missouri Boy Travis Wolfe,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,MO,Josh Hawley,H001089,www.hawley.senate.gov,hawley,https://www.hawley.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) released the following statement upon reports that the illegal alien—who killed Missouri’s 12-year-old Travis Wolfe in a head-on collision last year—was released into Missouri without having to pay a monetary bond.

Senator Hawley has repeatedly sought justice for Travis after a judge reduced the bond of his killer, criminal illegal alien Endrina Bracho. The Senator has alsocondemned the Biden Administration’s open-border policies that led to Travis’ tragic death.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-north-dakota-is-leading-the-way-in-clean-coal-technologies-will-work-with-trump-administration-to-make-america-energy-dominant,"Hoeven: North Dakota is Leading the Way in Clean Coal Technologies, Will Work With Trump Administration to Make America Energy Dominant",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: North Dakota is Leading the Way in Clean Coal Technologies, Will Work With Trump Administration to Make America Energy Dominant

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, this week outlined North Dakota’s leadership in developing and deploying clean coal technologies for the nation. The Senator spoke on the Senate floor following President-elect Donald Trump’s remarks on the importance of clean coal, one of the nation’s most reliable, affordable and abundant energy resources, and its role in making the United States energy dominant.

Hoeven outlined his work over the past 15 years to advance North Dakota’s leadership in cracking the code on carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies to enable the next generation of clean, coal-fired electric power, including:

Putting in place the legal, tax and regulatory requirements to advance CCUS.

Making North Dakota the first state to be granted regulatory primacy for Class VI wells, to ensure CO2 is safely and securely stored below the surface.

Securing a demonstration grant from the Department of Energy to advance Project Tundra, enabling the coal-fired Milton R. Young power plant to capture and store 4 million metric tons of CO2 per year.

Advancing Basin’s Dakota Gasification synfuels plant, the largest coal-based carbon capture project in the world, which is currently in operation and captures up to 2.25 million metric tons of CO2 per year.

“I look forward to working with President Trump to take off the handcuffs and empower producers to develop the latest, greatest technology to produce more energy with better environmental stewardship. This is about unleashing our nation’s vast coal reserves – one of our country’s most important strategic assets. By leveraging technology and unlocking clean coal’s full potential, we’ll be able to increase the supply of affordable, reliable electricity and bring down prices for American families and businesses,” said Hoeven. “North Dakota is leading the way in clean coal technologies and this will be an important part of our efforts working with the Trump administration to make America not only energy secure, but energy dominant.”

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-senate-passes-legislation-to-help-make-theodore-roosevelt-presidential-library-a-reality,Hoeven: Senate Passes Legislation to Help Make Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library a Reality,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Senate Passes Legislation to Help Make Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library a Reality

Legislation Supports Library Establishment, Preservation & Display of Materials from President Roosevelt’s Life

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today announced that the U.S. Senate has approved legislation he introduced to support the establishment of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. Hoeven’s bipartisan, bicameral bill, which is cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer, Richard Blumenthal, Martin Heinrich and Mitt Romney in the U.S. Senate and was sponsored by then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong in the U.S. House of Representatives, would:

Authorize the Department of the Interior to provide grants to establish the presidential library and support the display of materials.

This legislation follows the model of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, located in Springfield, Ill., which authorized the use of materials and objects relating to Abraham Lincoln, as well as $50 million over five years for its establishment under fiscal year (FY) 2001 appropriations legislation.

Require the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation to utilize non-Federal funds to provide a 2:1 match for each federal grant awarded.

Prohibit the use of federal grants for maintenance or operations of the interpretive center.

“As President Teddy Roosevelt proudly claimed, he would not have ascended to the presidency had it not been for his formative years in North Dakota,” said Senator Hoeven. “It is fitting that we establish this presidential library, which will commemorate his life and work, adjacent to the national park that bears his name. Our legislation plays a critical role in making this project a reality, and with Senate passage secured, we will continue our efforts to pass it through Congress and into law.”

“A year and a half from now, North Dakotans and visitors from around the world are going to be able to see the story of our 26th President and our beloved Roughrider while experiencing the actual place that had a large impact on his life and Presidency,” said Senator Cramer. “This legislation is going to help immerse visitors in Theodore Roosevelt’s world as they view artifacts from every era of his life and learn, of course, about his legacy of leadership.”

The bill comes as the latest in Hoeven’s efforts to support the establishment of the presidential library, having worked as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to:

Sponsor and successfully pass legislation enabling the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation to purchase U.S. Forest Service land in Billings County to construct a library and museum honoring the life and legacy of President Teddy Roosevelt.

Secure legislation in the Interior appropriations bill to support loans of historic artifacts currently held by the Smithsonian for display at the library.

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-passes-hoeven-sponsored-bill-to-allow-equal-value-land-and-mineral-exchanges-between-north-dakota_tribes,Senate Passes Hoeven-Sponsored Bill to Allow Equal-Value Land & Mineral Exchanges Between North Dakota & Tribes,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Senate Passes Hoeven-Sponsored Bill to Allow Equal-Value Land & Mineral Exchanges Between North Dakota & Tribes

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act, bicameral legislation he introduced with Senator Kevin Cramer and then-Congressman Kelly Armstrong to enable greater development of state-owned lands and minerals. Specifically, the bill would authorize the State of North Dakota to relinquish state-owned lands and minerals contained within the Tribal Reservations to the U.S. Department of the Interior and, in exchange, receive federal land and minerals of equal value within North Dakota.

“We’ve advanced this legislation, in partnership with the State of North Dakota and tribal governments, to empower the lands and resources within our borders and on reservations to be better utilized for the benefit of the public,” said Hoeven, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “Allowing these equal-value exchanges is a win-win for the state and the tribes. North Dakota will be able to access minerals and surface acreage that would otherwise be stranded due to the patchwork of federal land in our state, while tribes will be able to reclaim the land and resources within reservation borders.”

“As any North Dakotan knows, fragmented mineral rights complicate energy and mineral development,” said Cramer. “Our North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act is really an easy fix to federal and state land transfers to ensure we encourage more energy and resource development in the state.”

Currently, North Dakota holds more than 130,000 acres of minerals and over 31,000 surface acres within Tribal Reservations alone, which are largely unavailable for development. At the same time, existing federal laws do not adequately allow for the state and federal government to exchange land and minerals. This leaves surface and mineral rights within the Tribal Reservations fragmented, while limiting the state’s ability to generate revenue from the land and minerals it owns. The North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act would resolve this issue by allowing equal value transactions between North Dakota and the Interior Department to exchange land and mineral rights, thereby:

Enabling North Dakota to access the lands and minerals that were promised upon statehood to fund education and other public purposes.

Providing tribes greater ownership over the lands within their reservation boundaries.

Valuations conducted under this legislation would be determined by Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions and the Uniform Standards for Professional Appraisal Practice. Valid existing rights will be respected in these transactions and there will be no impact on any Indian treaty rights or to the National Grasslands. The full text and a summary of the legislation can be found here and here, respectively.

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=B6C71777-4888-4C57-87D7-10D9B7DB717A,Graham and Van Hollen Introduce Bipartisan Sanctions Against Turkey,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland) introduced bipartisan sanctions legislation following concerns about military action by Turkey or Turkish-backed groups in northern Syria. The Senators released the following statement upon introduction:

“Today, we introduced the Countering Turkish Aggression Act of 2024 while stressing that the United States should work with Turkey – through diplomatic means – to facilitate a sustained ceasefire and demilitarized zone along the border between Turkey and Syria, particularly the city of Kobani. These sanctions seek to prevent further Turkish or Turkish-backed attacks on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which risk the reemergence of ISIS, threatening the national security of the U.S. and the rest of the globe.

“We remain hopeful that there will be a peaceful resolution to the problems that plague Syria.”

Earlier this week, Graham and Van Hollen spoke to SDF General Mazloum Abdi and reiterated their intention to introduce bipartisan sanctions if Turkey refused to extend the ceasefire.

#####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=E00F7197-9BB2-4521-AA90-597AF82780AE,Graham Elected Senate Budget Committee Chairman,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,SC,Lindsey Graham,G000359,www.lgraham.senate.gov,graham,https://www.lgraham.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after he was elected Senate Budget Committee Chairman by the Republican conference for the 119th Congress.

“I am honored to have been elected Senate Budget Committee Chairman by the Republican conference. The Senate Budget Committee – through the reconciliation process – will aggressively push the most transformational border security bill in American history and revitalize our military.

“We’re going to give President Trump and his team the resources they need to finish the wall, put technology on the border to obtain operational control, hire more ICE agents to deport gang members and criminals, and create more detention space so we don’t have to release illegal immigrants into the country.

“We will make the Navy bigger and more lethal.

“We are going to do all of this in weeks, not months.”

####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/lummis-fights-to-address-water-scarcity-and-shore-up-drought-preparedness-measures/,Lummis Fights to Address Water Scarcity and Shore Up Drought Preparedness Measures,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Washington, D.C.— This week, U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis’ (R-WY) legislation to shore up drought preparedness measures and address water scarcity in Wyoming and the west passed the Senate. Lummis headed to the Senate floor to urgently seek support for the bipartisan Water Data Improvement Act and the Drought Preparedness Act, and the bills were passed by unanimous consent. They now head to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

“The west’s ability to continue leading our nation in cutting-edge water conservation and management hinges on preserving proven policies that mitigate drought threats,” said Lummis. “We must act urgently to ensure our state, local and Tribal governments are adequately prepared to deal with droughts and shore up our water infrastructure across Wyoming and western states.”

The Water Data Improvement Act would:

Support the National Groundwater Resources Monitoring Network, which promotes collaborative groundwater monitoring between federal, state, and local programs, by reauthorizing the program at $4 million annually.

Reauthorize the National Streamflow Information Program at $10 million annually to help monitor water levels.

Improve water estimation and monitoring technologies by reauthorizing the grant programs for agencies, academic institutions and private entities to develop and implement new methodologies and technologies.

Improve collaboration between the Department of Interior (DOI) and other federal and state agencies to streamline and centralize water data collection systems and water supply forecasting techniques.

The Drought Preparedness Act would:

Reauthorize the Reclamation States Emergency Drought Relief Act through 2028.

Continue authorities for DOI to prepare drought contingency plans and provide technical assistance to State, local, and Tribal governments on their drought contingency plans.

Maintain authorities for DOI loans to water users for drought mitigation projects.

Support emergency response actions to minimize damages from drought.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z