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.moreno.senate.gov/press-releases/moreno-recaps-first-year-successes-for-ohio,Moreno Recaps First Year Successes For Ohio,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,OH,Bernie Moreno,M001242,www.moreno.senate.gov,moreno,https://www.moreno.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) recapped his work for Ohio in his first year in the U.S. Senate.

Senator Moreno’s 2025 Statistics:

Introduced 25 pieces of legislation

Co-sponsored 48 pieces of bipartisan legislation

Secured more than $35 million for Ohio projects

Visited 48 counties in Ohio

Solved 2,364 constituent cases

Hosted over 50 constituent coffees in Washington, D.C.

Welcomed four cabinet secretaries to tour Ohio

Sat for over 250 interviews with Ohio TV and radio stations

Joined the Senate Whip team to help pass President Trump’s legislative priorities

Fighting for Ohio:

Senator Moreno worked to secure $1.3 billion in funding for rural hospitals across Ohio in the One Big Beautiful Bill.

After the closure of the historic Chillicothe Paper Mill, Senator Moreno worked to encourage investment in the community and bring good-paying jobs to hardworking families in Ross County.

Following a brutal attack on a woman in Cincinnati, Senator Moreno fought for accountability alongside local law enforcement.

After the historic passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, Senator Moreno held a three-day, 18 county tour to hear directly from constituents, small business owners, and tour manufacturing plants.

Reindustrialization and the American Auto Industry:

Senator Moreno introduced the USA CAR Act to promote American manufacturing and allow Ohioans to write off interest on auto loans for U.S.-made cars. The USA CAR Act was included in the final passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Senator Moreno introduced the Transportation Freedom Act to reverse nonsensical EV mandates, make an historic investment in American auto workers, and streamline our regulatory processes.

Securing the Border and Restoring Law and Order:

Senator Moreno introduced the Refugees Using Legal Entry Safely (RULES) Act to reform the broken asylum system.

To protect American workers and college graduates, Senator Moreno introduced the HIRE Act. If companies want to hire foreign workers instead of Americans, his legislation will hit them where it hurts: their pocketbooks.

To honor the legacy of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson, Senator Moreno introduced the Larry Henderson Act to set a new mandatory sentence of 20 years in prison for anyone found guilty of assault on a federal officer. Anyone who assaults our law enforcement must face severe consequences.

Senator Moreno worked across the aisle with Senator Chris Coons to introduce the Auto Theft Prevention Act to create programs to provide funding to state and local law enforcement agencies to crack down on auto theft.

Championing Financial Freedom and Digital Assets:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ricketts-celebrates-further-award-of-more-than-215-million-for-rural-nebraska-healthcare/,Ricketts Celebrates Further Award of More than $215 Million for Rural Nebraska Healthcare,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,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,"Omaha, NE — Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) celebrated the award of Rural Health Transformation Program grant money for rural healthcare in Nebraska. This funding comes from a program that was created by Congress earlier this year in the Working Families Tax Cut to strengthen rural healthcare. Senator Ricketts voted in support of the bill.

“This is how you keep rural communities thriving,” said Ricketts. “The Rural Health Transformation Program was an important part of the Working Families Tax Cut that Senate Republicans passed earlier this year. This is an investment in the future of rural healthcare and in the future of Nebraska.”

BACKGROUND:

The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced awards to all 50 states under the Rural Health Transformation Program. The program, created by Congress earlier this year as part of the Working Families Tax Cut, committed $50 billion to invest in rural healthcare. 50% percent of this funding is split equally among the states, 50% percent is awarded after an application process. Nebraska was awarded an additional $218,529,075.

As a part of CMS’ application guidelines, awarded money is to be used to help rural communities expand care reach, strengthen and sustain clinical workforce, modernize rural health infrastructure and technology, drive efficiency, empower community providers, and advance innovative care models.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-introduces-bill-to-designate-anti-communism-week-and-honor-victims-of-communist-regimes,Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bill to Designate Anti-Communism Week and Honor Victims of Communist Regimes,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,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 introduction of legislation to designate the first week of every November as Anti-Communism Week and request an annual presidential proclamation recognizing the victims of communist regimes worldwide. This bill builds on President Trump’s 2025 Anti-Communism Week proclamation and reinforces America’s commitment to freedom, liberty, and dignity across the globe. Senator Marsha Blackburn is a cosponsor in the Senate. Companion legislation is being led in the House of Representatives by Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Communism is one of the most destructive and deadly ideologies in human history, responsible for the suffering and deaths of millions while crushing freedom wherever it takes hold. As a nation founded on liberty and individual freedoms, we must never forget these horrors or allow dangerous ideals to be repackaged, idealized, or sold to future generations. Designating Anti-Communism Week serves as a reminder of this evil ideology and reaffirms America’s unwavering commitment to freedom and opportunity for all.”

Senator Marsha Blackburn said, “Communism has claimed over 100 million lives by suppressing freedom, erasing faith, and destroying the prosperity that comes from hard work. The Anti-Communism Week Act would designate November 2 through 8 as a time to honor those victims, stand firm for liberty, and ensure this destructive ideology ends up on the ash heap of history.”

Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar said, “Communism has left a trail of death, suffering, and shattered nations across the globe, from Cuba to China, from Venezuela to North Korea. Too many Americans, especially in our schools, are now dangerously unaware of the real history and real horrors behind these failed systems. That’s why I’m proud to lead the Anti-Communism Week bill, which formally designates a week when we will reaffirm America’s commitment to freedom, educate our youth about the deadly consequences of communist ideology, and honor the memory of the tens of millions who have died under it. If we lose sight of history, we risk repeating it. This week isn’t just symbolic, it’s a necessary stand for liberty and truth.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-fox-news-senator-banks-demands-probe-of-minnesota-childcare-fraud/,ICYMI: Fox News: Senator Banks Demands Probe of Minnesota Childcare Fraud,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Alex Adams urging the department to investigate and review Minnesota’s childcare contracts in light of recent instances of childcare fraud.

See excerpts from the story below or read the full story here.

Read the full letter here.

EXCLUSIVE: Senator Jim Banks, R-Ind., is pushing for a federal investigation after sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) calling forthe agency to construct investigative reports of Somali networks as the roughly $9 billion fraud scandal in Minnesota continues to unfold.

The Indiana senator pointed out that the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program is administered by the state government, but is largely funded by federal tax dollars through two programs that provide roughly $300 million in federal childcare subsidies to Minnesota.

On Sunday, Banks sent a letter to Alex J. Adams, the Assistant Secretary for Family Support, leading the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at HHS.

“I urge ACF to investigate reports of Somali networks creating fake ‘daycare centers’ as vehicles to steal millions of dollars from Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which administers hundreds of millions of dollars in federal childcare subsidies each year,” Banks’ letter to HHS reads.

“Clearly, the Walz administration has failed to meet the most basic benchmarks required by ACF,” Banks explained. “Any unlawful behavior uncovered in ACF’s investigation must be immediately referred to the proper federal authorities including ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, and Federal prosecutors.”

“I will not stand by while tax dollars meant to support hardworking families are stolen and state officials refuse to act,” Banks added.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/barrasso-applauds-205-million-award-for-wyomings-rural-health-fund/,Barrasso Applauds $205 Million Award for Wyoming’s Rural Health Fund,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"Wyoming will receive $205,004,743 to implement its plan to expand rural healthcare access, stabilize rural hospitals and make Wyoming healthy again.

CASPER, WY — Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) announced the State of Wyoming’s application for the $50 billion rural health fund, created by the Working Families Tax Cut Act, has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Wyoming will receive $205,004,743 in 2026 to implement its plan to expand rural healthcare access, stabilize rural hospitals and make Wyoming healthy again.

“The State of Wyoming has a smart and targeted plan to address our unique healthcare challenges,” said Barrasso. “With this over $205 million award, Wyoming can get to work expanding access to care, recruiting and training new health providers and strengthening rural healthcare across our state. Thanks to the Working Families Tax Cut Act, rural health providers will have the funding and resources we need to keep caring for patients in frontier communities.”

The Working Families Tax Cut Act created a Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. RHT Program funding is $50 billion to be allocated to approved States over five fiscal years, with $10 billion of funding available each fiscal year, beginning in fiscal year 2026 and ending in fiscal year 2030. This will give Wyoming hospitals, clinics, and health centers access to more than $500 million to help ensure high-quality care remains available across our frontier state.

States were required to submit a plan by early November for how they would use these funds and apply to CMS to receive these grants. On December 29, 2025, CMS announced the awards for each state.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/blackburn-applauds-206-million-for-tennessee-from-rural-health-transformation-program,Blackburn Applauds $206 Million for Tennessee from Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the Trump administration announced a $206,888,882 award to strengthen rural health care in Tennessee. This funding comes from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which Senator Blackburn supported as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation that President Trump signed into law over the summer.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/a-year-of-results-for-alabama-families/,A Year of Results for Alabama Families,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"The past year has certainly been a memorable one—and, more importantly, a rewarding one.

Beginning the year by leading the Laken Riley Act through the Senate and to President Trump’s desk—and seeing it become the first bill he signed into law in his second term—was just the start of what we have accomplished for Alabamians and Americans alike. President Trump and Republicans campaigned on cracking down on illegal migration, and this legislation sent an immediate and unmistakable message to the nation: we intended to keep that promise.

Since then, in less than a year, border crossings have reached historic lows, and as a result, countless lives have been saved. Whether it’s stopping deadly fentanyl or violent criminals from crossing our border, the success in securing our nation is undeniable.

Another issue Republicans were tasked with cleaning up is an inherited economy plagued by record inflation, soaring grocery prices, and an energy industry in shambles. Under Republican leadership, significant strides have been made to restore affordability and economic stability, starting with unleashing American energy.

President Biden ended his term with the highest gas prices in our nation’s history. In less than a year, average gas prices dropped to their lowest level in more than four years. This didn’t happen by chance. Energy prices are finally lowering thanks to cutting government red tape and overturning Biden-era regulations that were suffocating our energy producers. This has resulted in lower energy costs, which are a critical first step to bring down prices across the board, namely groceries.

Making America energy dominant again is just one piece of the puzzle, though. Another landmark piece of legislation Republicans delivered was the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. This resulted in the largest tax cut in U.S. history, putting millions of Americans on track to keep more of their hard-earned money. Whether it’s a larger tax refund, no taxes on tips, no taxes on overtime, or Social Security relief for seniors, the benefits of this legislation will soon be felt by families across Alabama as our economy continues to rebound.

We achieved another historic win by updating child care tax credits. This priority was personal to me—before my children were old enough for school, we struggled to find child care that had two spots open. After finally securing care, we were shocked when it felt like we were writing checks to college, not child care. Experiencing the issue of both affordability and availability of childcare is what led me to be at the tip of the spear in fighting to modernize three child care tax credits.

We permanently increased the Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP) for the first time since 1986, when Ronald Reagan was President. Parents can now set aside up to $7,500, a 50% increase. We also permanently updated the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), a provision that hadn’t been touched in over two decades. This change will directly cut taxes for nearly 4 million working families. Lastly, we gave the Employer-Provided Child Care Credit (45F) its first major upgrade in nearly 25 years – and made it permanent. This means more employers can help cover child care – a win for businesses and a lifeline for working parents.

Democrats had been talking about the issue of child care for decades, but it was Republicans who took action. Republicans are the party of families, and it’s paramount we continue to find ways to responsibly support them. While this was an important step, I will continue to fight for families and to find ways to address the affordability and availability of child care.

The results we have seen in D.C. have been matched by incredible results in Alabama. From the Shoals to the Shores, from the Wiregrass to Jackson County and everywhere in between—we put the needs of hardworking Alabamians front and center. This year, we celebrated the Port of Mobile becoming the deepest container port in the Gulf of America. We also secured tremendous commitments from businesses looking to expand their footprint across our state. In my first year in office, I secured funding to relaunch Tuskegee University’s aviation science program, and I was proud to join their community this year to celebrate the first students who received their pilot licenses.

And finally, we permanently relocated U.S. Space Command Headquarters to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville. Thanks to the work of Alabama’s entire congressional delegation and President Trump’s support, Space Command will now proudly call Alabama home. This relocation will bring thousands of jobs to our state and further strengthen Alabama’s vital role in our national defense.

While I am proud of what we’ve accomplished this year, I recognize there is still more work to be done. Whether it’s fixing Democrats’ health care crisis, taking on Big Tech and protecting our children online through meaningful social media legislation, or ensuring Alabama has the resources and tools it needs to thrive for generations to come, I will keep fighting every day for our state and nation.

Serving you remains one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I will continue to give you everything I have.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/29/senator-budd-issues-statement-after-cms-announces-213m-in-funding-for-north-carolinas-rural-hospitals/,Senator Budd Issues Statement After CMS Announces $213M+ in Funding for North Carolina’s Rural Hospitals,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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. — Earlier this month, U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) joined members of the North Carolina congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Dr. Mehmet Oz, expressing strong support for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service’s (DHHS) Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) application. Today, CMS allocated $213,008,356 in funding for North Carolina’s rural hospitals, which was previously approved in the Working Families Tax Cut Act signed into law earlier this year.

In a statement following the announcement, Senator Budd said:

“North Carolina has the second-largest rural population in America, home to 7.6% of our nation’s rural residents. Today’s announcement by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of $213 million from the Rural Health Transformation Program will greatly benefit patients across our state. While I was proud to support the inclusion of this funding in the Working Families Tax Cut Act, it is unfortunate that the State’s application was not appropriately coordinated with federal officials and did not request funding levels that more accurately correlate with our significant rural population.”

Read the full text of the letter HERE and below.

Dear Administrator Oz:

As members of the North Carolina congressional delegation, we express our strong support for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ (DHHS) Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) application. We respectfully request that you approve the application in full before the December 31 deadline. Approval will allow our state, which has three million rural residents across 85 counties—the second-largest rural population in the nation—to expand proven innovative models, foster sustainable innovation, and strengthen our rural workforce.

While our state’s application requested a funding amount equal to 2 percent of total RHTP dollars available, North Carolina accounts for 7.6 percent of the rural population nationwide, so we are requesting that CMS allocate additional dollars so that the total funding amount is proportional to the disproportionately large rural population in our state. Per existing Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidance, North Carolina applied the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) definition of rural, which excludes counties like Burke, Moore and Pitt, with respective populations of 88,000, 108,000 and 180,000, yet includes counties like Wake, which is a primarily urban county home to over 1.2 million residents. Moore, Pitt, and similar jurisdictions serve some of the most isolated patients living in the most rural and even remote areas, and we look forward to ensuring all our rural providers and patients receive funding commensurate with their level of need.

After applying on November 3, DHHS plans to allocate awarded funds through its Office of Rural Health (NCRHTP). A statewide steering committee, including Medicaid, Public Health, and Behavioral Health divisions, would guide implementation. The program allows sufficient flexibility for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to assign recipients. As population declines continue and rural hospitals increasingly rely on Medicaid, rural communities face ongoing healthcare and economic challenges, with gaps in access to care and quality. At least 24 counties lack adequate primary care, and 90 counties are designated mental health shortage areas. Since 2006, 12 rural hospitals have closed, with seven closures in eastern North Carolina.

An RHTP investment will improve health outcomes and access for nearly three million rural North Carolinians, advancing innovative care models, transforming the rural care experience, and creating a sustainable rural delivery system. By FY2031, NCRHTP aims to increase rural provider-to-population ratios, reduce preventable hospital readmissions and emergency visits, lower chronic disease risk factors, and expand access to integrated behavioral, mental health, and substance use services. Locally governed, community-tailored networks will connect medical, behavioral, and social services, making it easier for rural residents to access comprehensive care in one place.

Each hub is tailored to its region, offering in-person services, care coordination, and direct family support, while also leveraging virtual care and advanced AI to improve access and data sharing. These efforts will provide an opportunity to accelerate technological innovation, access, and interoperability through expanded health information exchange participation, digital literacy programs to ensure rural residents can access modern, connected care, and the broad implementation of state-of-the-art AI-based technology to support documentation and real-time expert clinical decision support to drive down business costs for rural providers and improve sustainability.

Approving North Carolina’s application for the RHTP will improve health outcomes and our economy, which relies on healthy communities to thrive. We are grateful for your full and fair consideration of this crucial award ahead of the December 31 deadline.

Sincerely,

/X/

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-applauds-historic-rural-health-care-investment-for-west-virginia,Capito Applauds Historic Rural Health Care Investment for West Virginia,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today applauded the Trump administration’s announcement awarding nearly $200 million to West Virginia through the Rural Health Transformation Program, a historic initiative established by Republicans under the One Big Beautiful Bill, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

West Virginia will receive $199,476,099 as part of the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history—an initiative that every single Democrat voted against.

“For rural states like West Virginia, this historic investment is transformative, and it proves that President Trump and Republicans are delivering real results for rural America. In the crafting of this legislation that impacts every American, I was proud to help shape the Rural Health Transformation Program from the start and to support the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that made this funding possible. Today’s announcement means more West Virginians can access care, stronger rural hospitals, and a more sustainable health care future,” Senator Capito said.

BACKGROUND:

The Rural Health Transformation Program was authorized by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and empowers states to strengthen rural communities across America by improving healthcare access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the healthcare delivery ecosystem. Through innovative system-wide change, the Rural Health Transformation Program invests in the rural healthcare delivery ecosystem for future generations.

Senator Capito played a significant role in the creation of the Rural Health Transformation Program and has long been a leading voice in Congress for strengthening rural health care systems. She also voted in favor of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which established this landmark investment.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-secures-over-19-5-million-to-improve-louisiana-roadway-safety-from-his-infrastructure-bill/,Cassidy Secures Over $19.5 Million to Improve Louisiana Roadway Safety from His Infrastructure Bill,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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) announced Louisiana will receive $19,517,973 in federal funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. The funding will help communities across the state improve traffic safety, reduce serious injuries and fatalities, and make local roads safer for families, pedestrians, and first responders.

“Too many Louisiana families have had their lives changed forever by preventable traffic accidents,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding I secured is going directly to Louisiana communities to make our streets safer.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-announces-281-million-for-texas-from-new-rural-health-transformation-program/,Cornyn Announces $281 Million for Texas from New Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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 announcing that the Trump administration has allocated $281,319,361 for Texas from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which Sen. Cornyn supported as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts:

“I was proud to vote to create the new Rural Health Transformation Program to improve health care for the millions of Texans living in rural areas across the Lone Star State,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’m grateful to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Dr. Oz, and the Trump administration for allocating Texas this significant funding, which is yet another example of the Working Families Tax Cuts benefitting all Texans.”

Background:

Earlier this month, Sen. Cornyn and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led a letter with members of the Texas congressional delegation to Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Dr. Mehmet Oz, urging him to prioritize funding for the State of Texas. Sen. Cornyn also released a statement in support of Texas’ application in November.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/north-dakota-awarded-nearly-200-million-for-rural-health-transformation-plan,North Dakota Awarded Nearly $200 Million for Rural Health Transformation Plan,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – When Congress passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, it established the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) to strengthen rural health care by providing states funding to support innovation, expand access, and enhance quality of care.

The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) announced the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services will receive $199 million in initial funding for its RHTP. North Dakota’s approved application includes a five-year plan to strengthen and stabilize its rural workforce, bring high quality health care closer to home, and confront immediate threats to rural health while building lasting sustainability.

“Rural hospitals are essential to the health and economic stability of their communities,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “The creation of this fund reflects a clear commitment by the Trump administration to prioritize rural healthcare and protect access to care where it is needed most. I look forward to this money getting to North Dakota and providing the support it was designed to deliver.”

“North Dakota is taking bold steps to restore health, opportunity, and dignity to our prairies,” the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services said in its application. “North Dakota’s RHTP delivers practical investments that honor local and tribal values, protect rural independence, and get America back to what matters: healthy people, prosperous communities, and common-sense service delivery.”

The unprecedented funding provides key opportunities for North Dakota’s rural health care systems:

Strengthens and Stabilizes Rural Health Workforce:

The funding allows rural hospitals in North Dakota to expand rural healthcare training programs, improve retention in rural and Tribal communities, and use technology as an extender for rural providers.

Makes North Dakota Healthy Again:

North Dakota’s RHTP initiatives support the launch of Eat Well ND to enhance nutrition education for North Dakotans, initiates ND Moves Together to provide education on the benefits of physical activity across the state and promotes connection and resilience to improve mental health with a focus on children.

Brings High-Quality Health Care Closer to Home:

The state’s five-year plan right-sizes rural healthcare delivery systems, enhances the telehealth and mobile clinic infrastructure; and expands community health worker and paramedic infrastructure, training, and certification. It ensures rural residents have access to transportation and develops care coordination programs with payers in the state for patients with chronic disease or behavioral health conditions.

Connects Tech, Data, and Providers for a Stronger North Dakota:

North Dakota’s application outlines key initiatives to gain efficiency with modern tech and data, including cooperative purchasing agreements for technology, regulatory and financial infrastructure, use of staff, and bulk purchasing of supplies and equipment.

It also summarizes plans to harness artificial intelligence to detect early signs of chronic disease and behavioral health conditions, expand the capacity of rural providers, and utilize new technology for rapid transport, automated prescription pickup kiosks, and laboratory capability to process self-collected specimens.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2025/12/29/icymi-daines-op-ed-2025-was-a-historic-year-for-montana/,ICYMI: Daines Op-Ed: 2025 Was a Historic Year for Montana,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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 wrote an op-ed for the Bozeman Daily Chronicle recapping 2025’s historic wins for Montana. Read it below.

2025 Was a Historic Year for Montana

Bozeman Daily Chronicle

Senator Steve Daines

December 27th, 2025

2025 was a historic year for Montana. Tim Sheehy, a former Navy Seal, joined me in the U.S. Senate, along with Troy Downing and Ryan Zinke in the U.S. House.

Working together, we’ve made major strides advancing Montana priorities, from increasing our energy dominance, protecting our public lands, and supporting farmers, ranchers, veterans, and working families.

We now have a majority in the U.S. Senate, which allowed us to quickly confirm President Trump’s cabinet as well as excellent Montana candidates to serve us on the federal level — Kurt Alme to serve as our U.S. Attorney and Bill Mercer to serve as a district judge.

I worked around the clock with my colleagues in the Senate to implement the president’s agenda as quickly as possible. On Independence Day, I stood with President Trump at the White House as he signed the Working Families Tax Cut, which delivered the largest tax cuts in American history.

Montana families will see the effects in 2026, when their take-home pay is boosted by over $10,000 a year and there are no taxes on tips. The bill also included my provision to save the Bull Mountains Mine, which protects Montana’s energy dominance and saved over 300 good-paying Montana mining jobs.

And as a lifelong sportsman, protecting our public lands is one of my top priorities. That’s why I was proud to block a provision from being included in the bill that would have sold millions of acres of our public lands.

Thanks to President Trump’s leadership we’ve saved Montana energy. In addition to keeping the Bull Mountains Mine open, he also signed into law my bill to reverse a disastrous Biden administration anti-coal rule that would have blocked future coal leasing in eastern Montana and caused the loss of billions of dollars in revenue to our state.

Additionally, President Trump and his cabinet listened to the concerns of Montanans and reversed a Biden mandate that would’ve put the Colstrip Power Plant out of business.

One of my main priorities this year was supporting the Montana sportsmen and our great outdoors.

I worked closely with the administration to support our logging industry and ensure we can better fight catastrophic wildfires. I also introduced the “America the Beautiful Act,” which provides critical funding for our national parks and addresses maintenance backlogs, so that people can get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.

Additionally, I introduced a bill to expand access to our public lands for sportsmen and outdoor recreation.

I am also working hard to support our farmers and ranchers. Montana beef is the best in the world, and one of my main focuses this year was expanding market access for our farmers and ranchers.

I’m pushing for a robust Farm Bill that will support Montana ag and ensure Montana voices are represented, and worked hard to pass a permanent increase to the death tax exemption, which will allow family farms and ranches to pass their land down to future generations.

We’ve also made massive strides protecting life and family. In December, President Trump signed into law my bill, the BABES Enhancement Act, which makes it easier for moms and families to safely travel with breastmilk and formula. I’m working to protect women from the harmful abortion pill, which causes traumatic adverse effects at a rate 22 times higher than advertised.

Montana has the highest number of veterans per capita in the nation, so it’s critical they get the support and resources they deserve. This year I attended the Butte VA Clinic’s renaming ceremony, which honors Montana legend Charlie Dowd for his incredible legacy of service.

I also introduced bills to protect health care and pension benefits for veterans and their families. Lastly, I introduced a bill to honor fallen service members and keep national cemeteries open on federal holidays.

Finally, protecting Montana’s tribal communities remained at the forefront of 2025. I introduced a bill to combat drug trafficking in our tribes and also passed a resolution designating May 5 as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

2025 has brought win after historic win for Montana and the nation. I’ll always work to support the needs of Montanans — from our veterans to our children, and from our farmers and ranchers to our loggers.

It’s my honor to serve you in the U.S. Senate and I look forward to what 2026 brings.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-shares-overview-of-his-2025-policy-and-oversight-achievements,Grassley Shares Overview of His 2025 Policy and Oversight Achievements,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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 sharing an overview of his 2025 legislative and oversight work on behalf of Iowans.

“It’s an honor serving the people of Iowa every day. I’m happy to report that Senate Republicans made a great impact this year by preventing the largest tax increase in U.S. history and ending the Biden Border Crisis, providing American families with increased safety and prosperity. In 2026, I’ll continue my efforts to bring down costs for Iowans and make government more accountable and transparent. We’ve got more work to do to lower the price of prescription drugs, pass a five-year Farm Bill and root out wasteful spending. I encourage all Iowans to share their views with me while I continue working for them in Washington,” Grassley said.

Click HERE to read Grassley's 2025 Year in Review.

Table of Contents:

1 Welcome

Numbers to Know

2 Iowa: Number One in the Senate

HIStory Series

3 Every County, Every Year

4 Year One of Trump’s Second Term

5 Tax Cuts for Working Families

6 Advancing Iowa’s Clean Energy Future

7 Agriculture

Pushing for Year-Round, Nationwide E15

Lowering the High Cost of Fertilizer

Supporting Farm Aid

9 Health Care

Protecting Rural Health Care and Supporting Telehealth

Preserving and Strengthening Medicaid

Cracking down on Obamacare Fraud

Lowering Prescription Drug Prices through PBM Transparency

Caring for Rural Iowans

11 The Senate Judiciary Committee | Chairman Chuck Grassley

About the Committee

Ending the Biden Border Crisis

Supporting the American Workforce

Putting President Trump’s Team in Place

Lifetime Judicial Appointments

Breaking Through the Partisan Blockade

Fighting Unconstitutional Judicial Overreach

Keeping an Eye on the Courts

Restoring Law and Order

Delivering for American Communities

Combating Organized Retail Crime

Halting the Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl

Safeguarding Children

17 Transparency Brings Accountability

18 Arctic Frost: A Scandal Worse than Watergate

19 Standing Strong at Home and Abroad

-30-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-welcomes-historic-investment-in-iowa-rural-health-care-from-republicans-working-family-tax-cuts-law,Grassley Welcomes Historic Investment in Iowa Rural Health Care from Republicans’ Working Family Tax Cuts Law,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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), a senior member and former chairman of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, welcomed news from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that Iowa will receive $209,040,064 in Fiscal Year 2026 from the Rural Health Transformation Fund to boost hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers and other rural providers.

“Senate Republicans fought hard to ensure our Working Family Tax Cuts Law included significant funding for rural communities. I was proud to help craft this legislation that provides the largest federal investment in rural health care in history. It’s fantastic news that Iowa will receive $209 million in the next year to support its Healthy Hometowns program and revitalize rural care across the state. I thank Governor Reynolds and her team for working with my office and our congressional delegation to make this substantial investment in Iowa health care,” Grassley said.

Background:

The rural health care funding comes from the Grassley-backed Working Family Tax Cuts law, titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. In addition to preventing the largest tax increase in history and providing major investments in border security and law enforcement, the law includes a historic investment in rural health care.

Last month, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the state had submitted its “Healthy Hometowns” application for a portion of the law’s funding. Iowa’s plan is aimed at building a high-quality, sustainable system of care that improves the health, well-being and quality of life in rural communities across the state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-north-dakota-awarded-nearly-200-million-from-one-big-beautiful-bill-rural-health-transformation-fund,Hoeven: North Dakota Awarded Nearly $200 Million From One Big Beautiful Bill Rural Health Transformation Fund,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: North Dakota Awarded Nearly $200 Million From One Big Beautiful Bill Rural Health Transformation Fund

State Receiving Initial Funds for FY26, Expected to Receive $500 Million Over Five Years

BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today announced North Dakota will receive more than $198 million from the One Big Beautiful Bill’s (OB3) Rural Health Transformation Fund for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. The state is expected to receive a total of $500 million over five years to improve health care quality and access in rural areas, using the funds to:

Build and retain a rural health workforce.

Prevent chronic disease and reduce costs.

Leverage telehealth and care coordination to bring health care closer to home, while improving the timeliness of care.

Hoeven worked to support the state as it developed its application for the program, which was submitted in November. A summary of North Dakota’s application can be found here.

“This nearly $200 million award is a tremendous step toward implementing North Dakota’s plan for creating a more accessible and robust health care system for our rural communities,” said Hoeven. “With nearly $500 million expected to be awarded to the state over the next five years, these funds will help address staffing needs over the long-term, open up new care opportunities for local residents and improve efficiency to reduce providers’ costs. Through efforts like these, we can improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans across our state and support the continued resiliency of our rural communities.”

As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has worked to empower local communities to better meet their health care needs. This includes leveraging Rural Development loans and Critical Access Hospital (CAH) reimbursement to build state-of-the-art hospitals in communities like Rugby, Grafton and Hazen and improve health care access in those regions. Hoeven also advanced a multi-year effort to ensure the best possible health care for the residents of the Devils Lake region. This resulted in the agreement between Altru and CommonSpirit Health for Altru to acquire Devils Lake Hospital, benefiting both patients and health care providers.

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=23E19F2B-B66D-4C93-BA00-907571B2B5F2,McConnell Helps Secure More Than $212 Million in Federal Funding for Kentucky Rural Hospitals,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KY,Mitch McConnell,M000355,www.mcconnell.senate.gov,mcconnell,https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that the Commonwealth of Kentucky has been awarded $212,905,591 in federal funds for investment in rural healthcare.

The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services will receive funding from the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program which was authorized by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that Senator McConnell voted in support of. The federal funding distributed this year to Kentucky will be directed toward rural hospitals and will be used in a variety of ways approved by statute.

“This significant investment in healthcare is a major win for Kentucky’s rural hospitals and providers,” said Senator McConnnell. “I was proud to help secure the Rural Health Transformation fund in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that Congress passed earlier this year. This legislation helped strengthen safety nets for Kentuckians most in need and works toward a more sustainable and innovative healthcare system in rural areas throughout our country and the Commonwealth.”

This federal program was established to help implement structural reforms to failing rural healthcare systems in place of prior temporary patches. The main goals of the program include sustainable access to care, workforce development, innovative care, and innovation in technology to promote healthy lifestyles for Americans. The federal funding will be allocated to approved states over five years. All 50 states were eligible to apply for funding from the RHT, and half of the funds will be distributed equally to approved states while the other half will be allocated based on state metrics and applications to maximize impact as well as address needs.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=C379D510-3516-412F-943B-FC5C0D7BE2D7,Sen. Moran Applauds $222 Million for Kansas Rural Hospitals from First Year of CMS Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement that Kansas will receive $222 million for the first year of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. This allotment will be awarded for 2026, the first year of the five-year program. The RHT was created in the Reconciliation Bill to direct CMS to work with states to identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers.

“The Rural Health Transformation Program is a significant investment in rural health care and will help improve outcomes for struggling hospitals, invest in new technology and bolster rural communities,” said Sen. Moran. “I worked with my colleagues to establish this fund, and these resources will now be tailored to meet the individual needs of rural health care in each state with no match required by the state. I look forward to working with our health care leaders and state leaders to make certain Kansas providers are able to use these resources to improve the long-term success of rural providers.”

Sen. Moran helped establish the rural provider fund as a part of the Reconciliation Bill, which was signed into law by the President on July 4. On July 3, Sen. Moran joined a town hall with more than 100 Kansas hospital leaders to outline changes made in the Reconciliation Bill for rural hospitals specifically, highlighting the Rural Health Transformation Program.

Items to note:

Funds from the RHT program will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from Fiscal Year 2026 through Fiscal Year 2030.

Kansas will receive one of the highest amounts from the RHT program, exceeded by only five other states.

The funding requires no state match; it is a federal-only investment aimed at helping to improve outcomes for struggling healthcare providers.

This is a one-time application with no renewal required, making certain states and providers have access to the funding over the next five years without needing to reapply.

In collaboration with CMS, states submitted detailed rural health transformation plans for improving access to care. CMS will monitor implementation in order to make certain resources are being targeted to best support struggling providers and improve health outcomes in rural communities.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/murkowski-on-rural-health-transformation-fund-alaska-has-an-extraordinary-opportunity,Murkowski on Rural Health Transformation Fund: “Alaska has an extraordinary opportunity.”,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Lisa Murkowski,M001153,www.murkowski.senate.gov,murkowski,https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/press-releases?PageNum_rs=3,scraper,"Anchorage, AK – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today announced awards under the Rural Health Transformation Program, a $50 billion initiative established through the reconciliation bill. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) highlighted the opportunity presented to Alaska’s rural health care system through the newly expanded fund, which will deliver $272 million per year to Alaska for the next five years.

“During the reconciliation negotiations, protecting health care access for rural communities in Alaska and across the country was my top priority,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “As one of the lead advocates to double the Rural Health Transformation Fund from $25 billion to $50 billion, I was intent on ensuring our rural providers had the resources to adapt, innovate, and continue to deliver care in challenging environments like ours. In addition to the funding, I fought for key provisions, including exemptions for Tribal members from SNAP and Medicaid work requirements and greater flexibility for states like Alaska to exempt regions with limited job availability. These safeguards will matter just as much as the funding. Taken together, they position Alaska well for the future and recognize the realities facing our rural and remote communities. We have an extraordinary opportunity in front of us, and I’m committed to working with our partners in the state to seize it.”

Background:

The Rural Health Transformation Fund was conceived during negotiations on H.R. 1. The fund provides $50 billion nationwide over five years (FY 2026–2031), including a $100 million per-state base allocation each year. Alaska will receive $272 million annually—totaling $1.36 billion over five years—to support rural health care priorities such as maternal and child health, access to essential services, preventive care, workforce recruitment and retention, and health care technology. Senator Murkowski’s negotiations directly led to the doubling of the fund from $25 billion to $50 billion.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/sen-tim-scott-applauds-200-million-rural-health-care-investment-for-south-carolina/,Sen. Tim Scott Applauds $200 Million Rural Health Care Investment for South Carolina,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,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,"CHARLESTON, S.C. — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) today released the following statement on the Trump administration’s announcement that South Carolina will receive more than $200 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program:

“Access to health care should not be determined by one’s ZIP code. The $50 billion investment in rural health care established through the Working Families Tax Cut, which was advanced by Republican Members of Congress and signed into law by President Trump, demonstrates our commitment to improving life for every American,” said Sen. Scott. “I was proud to champion this historic funding that will benefit South Carolinians by ensuring rural families in the Palmetto State and nationwide have access to life-saving care closer to home.”

The Working Families Tax Cut authorized the Rural Health Transformation Program, and all 50 states will benefit from the $50 billion initiative, marking the largest federal investment in rural health care in American history.

The funds allocated to South Carolina will support initiatives such as expanding telehealth and improving chronic disease management, including Sickle Cell Disease, both issues that Sen. Scott has long championed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.sullivan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sullivan-welcomes-272-million-investment-in-alaskas-health-care-system,Sullivan Welcomes $272 Million Investment in Alaska’s Health Care System,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AK,Dan Sullivan,S001198,www.sullivan.senate.gov,sullivan,https://www.sullivan.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases?PageNum_rs=2,scraper,"ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) today welcomed a $272 million award from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to strengthen Alaska’s health care system, the first of five annual awards for Alaska under the five-year Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP). Sen. Sullivan was one of the lead authors of the $50 billion fund in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, the budget reconciliation bill signed into law in July, that established the RHTP. The program is intended to help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize rural facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring high-quality, dependable care closer to home.

Sen. Sullivan announced the award at a press conference today in Anchorage alongside Governor Mike Dunleavy (R-Alaska), Congressman Nick Begich (R-Alaska), and Alaska Health Commissioner Heidi Hedberg.

“This is the biggest investment in rural health care in American history, and certainly the largest investment in Alaska’s health care system from the federal government in our state’s history,” said Sen. Sullivan. “The $272 million per year that Alaska will receive for five years—nearly $1.4 billion from the federal government—is a generational opportunity to transform our health care system. It gives our communities, state officials, and the Legislature the opportunity and freedom to design a health care system that reflects Alaska’s unique needs. This is the opposite of the one-size-fits-all approach we too often see from Washington, DC. This funding will help keep care closer to home, reduce the need for costly and disruptive travel, strengthen rural clinics, and stabilize our health care workforce. With the application the Dunleavy administration put forth, this award is an example of the power of local, tribal and state leaders, and our federal delegation—all the stakeholders—working together to get results for Alaskans.”

According to CMS, the funding will be used by states to implement comprehensive strategies to improve care delivery, support providers, and advance new approaches to coordinating health care services across rural communities. Five key areas of focus for the program include:

Bringing more care within reach

Strengthening and sustaining the rural clinical workforce

Modernizing rural health infrastructure and technology

Driving structural efficiency and empowering community providers

Advancing innovative care models and payment reform

Below is a timeline of Sen. Sullivan’s work on the Rural Health Transformation Program.

During the first few months of 2025, Senate Republicans began working with the Trump administration on their legislative priorities to be included in a budget reconciliation bill.

Among many other important priorities for Alaska, Sen. Sullivan initially secured a 25 percent increase in Alaska’s Medicaid Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) in the bill to better reflect the state’s high cost of living and high cost of health care delivery. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the change would’ve permanently generated more than an additional $200 million in increased annual federal Medicaid dollars for Alaska.

During the final stages of debate on the bill, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senate Democrats challenged Sen. Sullivan’s FMAP provision by arguing to the parliamentarian of the Senate that it violated budget reconciliation rules. Following this review, the parliamentarian advised that the provision violated the requirements of the “Byrd Rule,” resulting in its removal.

It was disappointing that Sen. Schumer and Senate Democrats cut the estimated $200 million in increased annual Medicaid funding for Alaska, but Sen. Sullivan and his team quickly pivoted to another solution—shaping the formula for the Rural Health Transformation Fund to better address Alaska’s unique needs, doubling the fund’s overall size to $50 billion, and moving up the program’s start date to 2026.

On July 1, 2025, the Senate passed the budget reconciliation bill. On July 4, 2025, the legislation was signed into law.

On September 15, 2025, CMS unveiled details on how states could apply to receive funding from the RHTP. The State of Alaska then crafted an application with a plan for transforming Alaska’s health care system.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/u-s-senator-katie-britt-joins-cnns-state-of-the-union-to-discuss-protecting-minors-from-the-growing-threat-of-big-tech-ai/,"U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins CNN’s State of the Union to Discuss Protecting Minors from the Growing Threat of Big Tech, AI",2025-12-28,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"‘How many parents … are going to have to come and tell us a devastating story before we actually pass legislation?’

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined CNN’s Jake Tapper on a special edition of State of the Union, which focused on the growing threat of Big Tech and artificial intelligence (AI).

On raising teenagers in the age of social media and AI:

“I often say I don’t have to ask people what it’s like to raise kids right now, I am living it. We have two teenagers … 15 and 16. And so when you come with that perspective, you know that there are parents out there that are looking for tools to help keep their children safe. Also, when you look at both social media and technology and how fast everything is moving, it’s truly hard to keep up … So I think if we think about all of those things and what our kids are dealing with right now, it is imperative that we put up guardrails, especially when you’re looking at AI.”

On the harms of AI chatbots and the GUARD Act, legislation that would put guardrails around chatbots for minors:

“I have met with a number of parents who have told me devastating stories about their children, where chatbots ultimately … had isolated them from their parents, had talked to them about suicide, had talked to them about a number of things. And you think about this: If these AI companies can make the most brilliant machines in the world, they could do us all a service by putting up proper guardrails that did not allow for minors to utilize these things … And that’s one thing that this legislation does.”

On Big Tech and Congress’s failure to deliver solutions and protect American families:

“I mean, truly enough is enough. I mean, I also want to say: How long is it going to take Congress to actually act? … We’ve been talking about this for years. How many parents like the one that we just heard from are going to have to come and tell us a devastating story before we actually pass legislation? The truth is (that) these AI companies can absolutely do much of this on their own. But we know consistently, time and time again, whether it’s been social media companies or now some of the AI space that we consistently see people putting their profits over actual people …

“I want to elevate this topic for parents from coast to coast. [Congress is] not doing enough to put up guardrails. I mean, you and I did not grow up with front facing cameras … If these things were happening in a storefront on a main street in Alabama, we would shut that store down … So I am disappointed and will continue to push, because I think the time to act for Congress is now … People are over it, and we’re over people going to DC and just dragging their feet and coming up with an excuse. Get in a room and let’s figure out a pathway forward. That’s certainly what I’m committed to doing.”

Senator Britt has been a leader on reining in Big Tech and social media companies and a champion for children’s safety online since she came to Congress. She has led a number of bipartisan pieces of legislation, including the Stop the Scroll Act and Kids Off Social Media Act, both of which would set critical guardrails on social media platforms and companies.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-statement-on-passing-of-jeffrey-holland,Crapo Statement on Passing of Jeffrey Holland,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,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 on the passing of Jeffrey R. Holland, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

“I join other members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in mourning the loss of President Jeffrey R. Holland. Known for his empathetic love and care for others, President Holland embodied a Christ-like spirit of generosity. His more than 30 years of service in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spread the gospel far and wide, inviting others to know the unrelenting love of Christ here on earth.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/icymi-an-iowans-advice-after-70-years-of-parenting,ICYMI: An Iowan’s Advice After 70 Years of Parenting,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"An Iowan’s Advice After 70 Years of Parenting

By Senator Chuck Grassley

December 26, 2025

Wall Street Journal

Last weekend I encouraged everyone to read Rahm Emanuel’s op-ed “Lessons From Modern Parenthood” (Dec. 20). He’s a Democrat, and I’m a Republican, but his advice is sound for moms and dads of any stripe. Kudos to him for speaking up on a consequential issue on many Americans’ minds.

After years of policymaking and parenting, I agree that there’s no “secret sauce” to raising a family. Good parenting isn’t partisan. My wife of 71 years and I agree with the Emanuels on the ritual of eating together as a family. The conversations around the table in my own childhood are seared in my memory—they prompted an interest in government that turned into my vocation.

When our five kids were growing up, I can’t pretend I was at every meal. I give Barbara credit for serving as commander in chief of our household, acting as mom, homework-helper, chore-taskmaster and more when I was in Washington. Yet there was no daylight between us in our approach to parenthood. We taught our kids to work hard and live by the Golden Rule. Farm chores and school work didn’t leave much time to waste on television.

Raising kids today comes with new challenges, but the fundamentals haven’t changed. Our advice: Stick your nose in their business and keep strict boundaries. The internet poses risks beyond idleness and harm to mental health. Nefarious predators are targeting children with all manner of schemes.

As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I’m leading bipartisan efforts with Sen. Dick Durbin (D., Ill.) to combat online child exploitation and keep the next generation safe. Our reforms will help deter bad actors by revamping federal sentencing laws, targeting online criminal networks and cracking down on offenders who use child sex-abuse material to extort and coerce children.

Having and raising children is our nation’s most important work. Parents deserve to feel empowered, to be assured that Washington is an ally.

Barbara and I didn’t fall into helicopter- or tiger-parenting categories. Our Midwestern philosophy was handed down from our parents: Have faith in God and yourself; don’t worry about failure—it yields resilience—and remember that love guarantees you a permanent seat at the supper table.

Sen. Chuck Grassley (R., Iowa)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/trump-signs-into-law-lummis-bill-reauthorizing-congressional-awards-program/,Trump Signs Into Law Lummis Bill Reauthorizing Congressional Awards Program,2025-12-27,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WY,Cynthia M. Lummis,L000571,www.lummis.senate.gov,lummis,https://www.lummis.senate.gov/press-releases/page/,scraper,"Cheyenne, WY — U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement after President Trump signed her Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act into law, continuing this vital program that encourages young Americans to achieve their personal goals and give back to their communities. The Congressional Award is the highest honor bestowed by Congress to young Americans aged 14 to 24. This reauthorizes the board that administers the Congressional Award Program through FY2028.

“I am thrilled that President Trump has signed my bipartisan legislation into law, ensuring the Congressional Award will continue empowering young Americans through FY2028,” said Lummis.“Wyoming holds a special connection to this program– it was our own Senator Malcolm Wallop who helped establish the Congressional Award in 1979, creating a legacy that has inspired generations of youth to embrace service, personal growth, and civic responsibility. For more than forty years, this program has shaped the character of countless young people across our nation, and I am proud to see this Wyoming tradition flourish. This continued investment in America’s youth will help develop the leaders our country needs for tomorrow.”

About the Congressional Award Program:

– As the United States Congress’ only non-profit and highest honor for youth civilians, the Congressional Award program was started by late Wyoming Senator Malcolm Wallop in 1979, and Senator Lummis is proud to carry on his legacy by serving on the national board of directors.

– To achieve a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Congressional Award Certificate or Medal, each participant sets and achieves challenging goals in four program areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition/exploration.

– Medals are presented by members of the House and Senate, with the Gold Medal Ceremony/Summit taking place each June at a Ceremony in the U.S. Capitol.

– The Congressional Award is a public-private partnership.

– Although created by Congress, the Congressional Award program is funded entirely through private-sector donations.

– Congress provides in-kind support, including office space, the medals from the U.S. Mint and the audit oversight by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

– There are currently more than 50,000 youth enrolled throughout the country and reside in every congressional district.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/u-s-senator-katie-britt-urges-epa-to-prioritize-national-emission-standards-for-lime-manufacturing/,U.S. Senator Katie Britt Urges EPA to Prioritize National Emission Standards for Lime Manufacturing,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) recently sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin urging the EPA to prioritize the reconsideration of the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Lime Manufacturing Plants (Lime NESHAP).

Despite low levels of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) emitted by lime plants, the Biden Administration EPA finalized a new set of regulations with which the lime industry must comply. The regulations include four strict emissions standards that would cost the industry $2 billion—the lime industry’s annual revenue totals $2.3 billion.

“I ask you to continue your crucial work reconsidering yet another disastrous Biden-era rulemaking that would stunt the capability of our domestic lime manufacturing industry and negatively impact downstream industrial end-users. Lime is manufactured in 20 States and is an important component in steel production, energy production, delivering safe drinking water, road building, and wastewater treatment,” wrote the Senator.

She continued, “According to EPA’s own regulatory impact analysis, the rule would impose more than $2 billion in costs on an industry that generates just $2.3 billion in annual revenue.’ Despite this, the agency was unable to identify any quantifiable monetized benefits associated with the rule. The EPA has repeatedly acknowledged that the rule is unnecessary as emissions from the lime industry are already within acceptable limits, posing no threat to human health or the environment.”

“I urge you to establish a workable rule with feasible standards and ensure that manufacturers do not have to make costly and unnecessary efforts to comply with a rule that produces no quantifiable public health benefits,” Senator Britt concluded.

Alabama is one of the top lime-producing states in the U.S. In fiscal year 2024, approximately 28.5 million tons of limestone were produced in Alabama. Additionally, it is estimated that 20% of total lime production in the U.S. takes place in Shelby County, Ala., alone.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-cramer-announces-2025-service-academy-nominees,Senator Cramer Announces 2025 Service Academy Nominees,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, announced his nominees to the U.S. service academies:

“One of the great joys of serving North Dakota in Congress is nominating some of our best young patriots for appointments to our service academies,” said Cramer. “After visiting with Cormac and Oliver, I am honored and grateful they are willing to answer the call to serve. They will be great ambassadors of our state.”

The nominees are as follows:

Cormac Dunnick – U.S. Military Academy (West Point). Cormac, son of Ev and Kendra Dunnick, competes in basketball and trapshooting. He is a member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and enjoys hunting, weight-lifting, and golf. Cormac is from Grand Forks and attends Red River High School.

Oliver Schaefer – U.S. Air Force Academy. Oliver, son of Mark and Kristi Schaefer, competes in track and field and cross country. He volunteers for the Serenity Therapeutic Equine Program and enjoys reading, military history, and board games. Oliver is from Minot and attends Des Lacs Burlington High School.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=4DA43F2D-C747-4AE0-A481-A224962CFDFF,"Sens. Moran, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen America’s Energy Supply Chain",2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,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 Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s energy supply chain, reducing the risk of dangerous power outages and helping to meet increasing energy demand. The Electric Supply Chain Act would require the Secretary of Energy to conduct regular assessments of electric consumption trends and vulnerabilities in the electric energy supply chain, which includes distribution lines, transformers and other equipment required to connect energy generators to energy consumers.

“Demand for energy is continuing to grow in Kansas and across the country as power needs increase for housing, business and transportation,” said Sen. Moran. “As demand for energy expands, so does the importance of securing our energy supply chains. It is critical that the Department of Energy is tracking trends in our nation’s energy consumption to recognize vulnerabilities and protect national energy security.”

“Nevada’s electric grid is experiencing unprecedented levels of demand,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “It is our responsibility to help ensure that our supply chains are secure and capable of meeting growing energy demand to prevent power outages or other disruptions to daily life. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will ensure the Department of Energy is collecting information needed to keep electricity flowing throughout the country.”

The legislation would require the Department of Energy to conduct regular reviews of the electric energy supply chain with the following information:

Efforts and opportunities to strengthen, secure and supply electric energy supply chains;

Any trends, risks and vulnerabilities in the supply, demand and availability of components for or related to transmitting electricity;

National security and energy security considerations for strengthening, securing and expanding such supply chains;

Barriers to expanding and manufacturing transmission components and the processing of critical minerals;

Domestic policies that would prevent greater investment into such supply chains;

Workforce challenges impacting such supply chains; and

Recommendations to address the above challenges and risks to the electric energy supply chain.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

Similar legislation led by Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH-05) recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM); National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO); Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE); and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).

“Manufacturers thank Senator Cortez Masto and Senator Moran for introducing the Senate companion to the Electric Supply Chain Act,” said Chris Phalen, NAM Vice President of Domestic Policy. “Their leadership underscores the bipartisan commitment to strengthening America’s competitiveness and keeping our economy growing. Manufacturers are making significant investments in the domestic production of components that are helping to maintain and modernize our grid, and this bill will help ensure those efforts are matched by smart federal oversight and strategic insight. We urge the Senate to continue this momentum and advance this legislation as part of the broader push for comprehensive permitting reform and grid modernization that will strengthen America’s energy and AI dominance.”

“America’s grid is foundational to reindustrializing our economy and advancing U.S. leadership in twenty-first century technologies,” said Avery Ash, SAFE CEO. “Energy-intensive industries are central to American global competitiveness, including critical mineral processing, smelting, automotive manufacturing, and AI computing. The analysis required by this bill will be valuable in enabling strategies to secure our grid component supply chains from foreign adversaries and expand our grid to meet future electricity demand.”

“The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) applauds Senators Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) for their introduction of the Electric Supply Chain Act, marking a swift and encouraging response to House passage of the bill earlier this month,” said Peter Ferrell, NEMA Senior Director of Government Relations. “By requiring regular reports on the grid and its supply chains from the U.S. Department of Energy, this bill enables government and private sector partners to undertake more efficient and effective actions that will improve the reliability and affordability of the grid. NEMA appreciates the Senate's commitment to comprehensive oversight and stewardship of our nation's most critical infrastructure, and encourages bipartisan action on this legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.scott.senate.gov/media-center/press-releases/senator-tim-scott-releases-2025-year-in-review/,Senator Tim Scott Releases 2025 Year in Review,2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,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 2025 Year in Review, highlighting major legislative accomplishments and continued efforts to expand opportunity, strengthen American security, and deliver results for the people of South Carolina and families across the nation.

“I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished this year for the people of South Carolina and Americans nationwide, and I’m looking forward to building on that momentum,” said Senator Scott. “Whether it’s expanding school choice, securing tax relief for families, or strengthening our national security, my mission remains the same: to champion hope, protect opportunity, and ensure every American has the chance to achieve their version of the American Dream. I look forward to building on this progress in the year ahead.”

This year, Senator Scott led the introduction of 38 bills, 8 resolutions, and 14 amendments as well as cosponsored 79 bills and 42 resolutions.

Putting South Carolinians First

The Senator and his team completed casework for nearly 6,000 South Carolinians.

Maintaining a direct line of communication with constituents remained a priority for the Senator and allowed him to respond to more than 200,000 emails and letters from South Carolinians in 2025.

Energy and American Competitiveness

In an effort to restore American energy dominance and strengthen U.S. energy security, Senator Scott reintroduced the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2025. The legislation removes red tape by eliminating the requirement for the Department of Energy (DOE) to approve exports of American liquefied natural gas and streamlining the approval process. In November, the House companion bill, led by Representative August Pfluger (R-Texas-11), passed by a vote of 217-188, moving Congress closer to expanding U.S. energy production, supporting jobs, and lowering energy costs.

Environmental Oversight and Regulatory Accountability

Senator Scott also led efforts to rein in federal regulatory overreach by introducing a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Rubber Tire Manufacturing National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule. The Biden administration finalized the rule in November 2024 despite the EPA’s own risk review concluding it was unnecessary for protecting public health or the environment and unable to quantify any public health benefit. The CRA passed the Senate and was signed into law in May, reversing a burdensome mandate and protecting American manufacturers and workers.

Standing with South Carolina and Honoring Its History

This year marked 10 years since the tragic shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina – an attack that shook the nation and forever changed the Palmetto State. Senators Scott and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) led the introduction of a Senate resolution honoring the lives of the nine innocent worshippers murdered in the attack. The resolution passed unanimously, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to combating hatred and preserving the legacy of the Mother Emanuel Nine.

Supporting Small Businesses and Disaster Recovery

Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, Senator Scott led efforts to ensure small businesses and homeowners received timely assistance by reintroducing the SBA Disaster Transparency Act. The legislation requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to publish regular reports on the status of its disaster loan fund, providing Congress and communities clear insight into the availability of critical recovery resources.

Senator Scott also continued his work to protect small businesses from unnecessary federal overreach by reintroducing the Protecting Access to Credit for Small Businesses Act. This legislation pushes back against a Biden-era rule that would allow the SBA to make direct loans, ensuring that community banks and credit unions – that know the communities they serve – remain the primary source of credit for local businesses.

Empowering Families Through Education

Throughout 2025, Senator Scott continued advancing educational freedom and expanding school choice for families across the country. He introduced the National School Choice Week resolution and led the introduction of the High-Quality Charter Schools Act, legislation designed to grow and support charter schools, ensuring that more students, regardless of background, race, or ZIP code, have access to high-quality education.

In response to the rise of antisemitism on college campuses, Senator Scott partnered with Senator Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) to introduce the Antisemitism Awareness Act. The legislation directs the Department of Education (ED) to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism when enforcing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. This provides schools and investigators clear guidance for addressing antisemitic incidents, protecting Jewish students, and ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.

Through the Working Families Tax Cut, signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025, Senator Scott secured major wins for students and families, including the Educational Choice for Children Act becoming law. This provision encourages charitable contributions to scholarship programs and helps families access quality K–12 education, further empowering parents and communities with meaningful educational options.

Strengthening Families Through Quality Health Care

In 2025, Senator Scott continued leading efforts to expand health care access, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen the nation’s health care system. He reintroduced the Pregnant and Postpartum Women Treatment Reauthorization Act, which was signed into law as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act, ensuring that pregnant and postpartum women across the country have access to vital mental health and substance use disorder care.

Senator Scott has prioritized modernizing health care delivery and expanding patient access to high-quality care by working across the aisle to implement innovative solutions that meet the needs of families and communities. He partnered with Senator Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) to extend the Acute Hospital Care at Home Waiver program, passed by the House in December, giving patients the option to receive hospital level care at home, reducing costs, improving outcomes, and modernizing the delivery of care.

As a champion for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), Senator Scott introduced legislation reauthorizing the Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Demonstration Program. SCD is an inherited blood disorder that disproportionately affects African Americans, Latinos, and other minority groups, affecting approximately 100,000 individuals in the United States and significantly reducing life expectancy. The legislation expands access to research and treatment, trains more clinicians in SCD care, improves care during the transition from pediatric to adult services, and strengthens coordination among health care providers. Additionally, Senator Scott hosted a roundtable in Charleston, South Carolina to highlight emerging gene therapies and drive innovation in treatment options for patients living with the disease.

Senator Scott further led Senate resolutions recognizing National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month, underscoring his commitment to health equity, protecting vulnerable populations, and advancing access to high-quality, patient-focused care for Americans.

Supporting America’s Workers and Families

Senator Scott continued leading efforts to strengthen America’s workforce and protect the rights of workers across the country. He introduced the Modern Worker Empowerment Act to provide independent workers greater flexibility, helping them thrive in the modern day economy. He also championed stronger retirement security through the Strengthening Benefit Plans Act, which allows employers to use overfunded pension accounts to maintain health benefits amid rising costs. Additionally, Senator Scott reintroduced the Employee Rights Act of 2025, reinforcing fairness, privacy, and choice in the workplace and ensuring that all Americans have the protections and opportunities they need to succeed.

Tax Relief and Pro-Growth Reform

Senator Scott delivered major tax wins for hardworking Americans in 2025 aimed at lowering costs, encouraging investment, and strengthening communities. Through the Working Families Tax Cut, Opportunity Zones were made permanent and expanded upon, providing lasting incentives for investment in distressed areas. The legislation also established an extended educator tax deductions to coaches and athletic staff and delivered critical disaster relief and protections for South Carolina’s farmers.

Beyond this landmark legislation, Senator Scott introduced and supported key tax reforms to support families, infrastructure, and economic growth. These initiatives include the Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act, expanded tax credits for short line railroads essential to South Carolina’s port economy, the IRS Accountability and Taxpayer Protection Act, and incentives to strengthen American clean energy and advanced nuclear production.

Bolstering Our National Security

Throughout the year, Senator Scott advanced policies to strengthen U.S. national security, secure the southern border, and support those who serve our nation. He introduced the Securing Our Border Act to redirect unobligated International Revenue Service (IRS) enforcement funds toward border security priorities, including nonintrusive inspection systems, border wall construction, and Border Patrol recruitment and retention efforts. He also introduced the Alan Shao II Fentanyl Public Health Emergency and Overdose Prevention Act to accelerate the processing and removal of migrants illegally entering the country to protect American lives in response to the fentanyl crisis.

Senator Scott secured a key provision in the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) directing the Department of Defense (DOD) to support recruitment, training, and retention of top cyber talent to ensure the U.S. military remains prepared for evolving threats. During the government shutdown, he introduced the Pay Our Capitol Police Act to guarantee continued pay for Capitol Police officers, civilian staff, and essential contractors, and supported similar legislation to pay our military personnel during the shutdown.

Supporting our veterans remained a key priority of Senator Scott’s. Last month, the Senator joined Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) in introducing the Non-Opioids Prevent Addiction in the Nation (NOPAIN) for Veterans Act. The legislation would expand veteran access to non-opioid alternatives by providing pathways for FDA-approved non-opioid treatments to be included in the VA National Formulary (VANF), the list of available prescriptions at VA facilities.

Earlier this year, Senator Scott joined Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Republican colleagues in introducing the No Official Palestine Entry (NOPE) Act to cut off U.S. assistance to entities that give additional rights and privileges to the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). Current U.S. law prohibits funding to organizations, such as the United Nations, which gives the PLO full membership or standing as a member state. The NOPE Act updates the existing funding prohibition to organizations that offer the PLO “any status, rights, or privileges beyond observer status.”

Preserving the American Dream

Senator Scott, as Chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, led the inclusion of key provisions in the Working Families Tax Cut to cut waste, eliminate duplication, and protect hardworking taxpayers. These reforms rein in the unaccountable Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), defund wasteful Green New Deal spending, and eliminate the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) slush fund.

Senator Scott also played a leading role in advancing the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, which President Trump signed into law in July. The legislation established the nation’s first regulatory framework for payment stablecoins, strengthening consumer protections and national security. Under Senator Scott’s leadership, the bill passed the Senate Banking Committee with the support of every Republican and five Democrats. He further led the release of a discussion draft on digital asset market structure, as well as a Request for Information (RFI) for stakeholders to submit feedback on the draft and on a wide range of related issues.

To combat the debanking of federally legal businesses and law-abiding Americans, Senator Scott introduced the Financial Integrity and Regulation Management (FIRM) Act to eliminate all references to reputational risk as a measure to determine the safety and soundness of financial institutions. The bill advanced out of the Senate Banking Committee during its first legislative markup of the 119th Congress, prompting federal regulators to remove this arbitrary standard from their oversight practices.

President Trump also signed into law Chairman Scott’s Congressional Review Act resolution overturning a Biden-era CFPB rule that imposed government price controls on overdraft fees, preserving access to short-term liquidity for millions of Americans.

In the Committee’s first bipartisan housing markup in more than a decade, Chairman Scott led the unanimous passage of the Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act of 2025. The comprehensive package passed the Banking Committee 24-0 and was later included in the Senate-passed version of the National Defense Authorization Act. Senator Scott will continue to build on this momentum in 2026, reinforcing his priorities: expanding housing supply, lowering costs, and making the American Dream of homeownership within reach for more Americans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/general/video-blackburn-wishes-tennesseans-a-merry-christmas,VIDEO: Blackburn Wishes Tennesseans a Merry Christmas,2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,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. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a video message wishing Tennesseans a Merry Christmas:

“From all the Blackburns, I want to say Merry Christmas to you,” said Senator Blackburn. “There is nothing so special or nothing more wonderful than a Tennessee Christmas. Our wish is for all Tennesseans to know firsthand the blessings of the Christmas and holiday season. So, from our family to yours, Merry Christmas.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-s-statement-on-the-44-million-awarded-to-mississippi-s-safe-streets-for-all,Wicker's Statement on the $44 Million Awarded to Mississippi's Safe Streets for All,2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today released the following statement after five cities is Mississippi were awarded $44 million in roadway funding under the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program. These projects are possible because of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Senator Wicker helped negotiate as a senior member of the Senate Commerce Committee.

“Improved roadways lead to improved safety and increased commerce. I have continually advocated for these investments in Mississippi’s infrastructure. I am eager for these grants to be implemented across the state. These upgrades will provide safer, more convenient travel options for drivers and pedestrians alike.”

The grants for Mississippi will support:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/veterans/blackburn-resolution-recognizing-importance-of-community-care-for-veterans-passes-senate,Blackburn Resolution Recognizing Importance of Community Care for Veterans Passes Senate,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,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. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) released the following statements after their resolution recognizing community care as essential to meeting veterans’ health care needs unanimously passed the Senate:

“Federal government bureaucracy should not get in the way of America’s veterans getting the health care they need,” said Senator Blackburn. “This resolution reaffirms my commitment to ensuring veterans in Tennessee and across America can access high-quality, affordable health care.”

“Veterans deserve prompt, high-quality care and greater flexibility in choosing when, where and how to use the healthcare benefits they have earned through their service,” said Senator Moran. “This resolution reaffirms our commitment to making certain that veterans have a choice in where they receive care – whether at VA or in the community – while acknowledging the essential role community care partnerships play in strengthening the VA health care system. I thank Sen. Blackburn for leading this resolution and for her continued dedication to supporting our nation’s veterans.”

“Our veterans deserve the best care possible, and that means ensuring they can access timely, high-quality treatment through VA facilities and trusted community providers,” said Senator Tillis. “This resolution cuts red tape and makes sure no veteran is forced to wait for the care they’ve earned.”

“Mississippi’s veterans rely on community care providers,” said Senator Wicker. “The VA health system cannot meet every imaginable need, and these providers stand in the gap for those who have given so much to our country.”

This resolution is also co-sponsored by Senator Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.).

BACKGROUND

A decade ago, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) faced a nationwide access-to-care crisis that left many veterans waiting too long for essential medical services. In response, Congress passed the VA MISSION Act, a bipartisan reform designed to ensure that veterans could access timely, high-quality care, including through community providers when the VA could not meet veterans’ needs.

Community care has become an indispensable part of the VA health care system, expanding veterans’ options and improving access, especially for those living in rural areas, facing mobility or transportation challenges, or requiring specialized treatment.

Specifically, this resolution:

Recognizes community care as an essential tool for meeting veterans’ health care needs;

Affirms that community care complements the VA’s mission to serve veterans;

Urges the VA to fully and faithfully implement the VA MISSION Act, ensuring veterans can seek community care when the VA cannot provide timely or appropriate treatment; and

Reaffirms the Senate’s commitment to ensuring every veteran has access to high-quality, affordable, and veteran-centered care, whether provided at a VA facility or through community providers.

Click here for resolution text.

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Blackburn, Tuberville Support Expanding Veterans’ Access to Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

Blackburn, Booker, Boozman, Rosen, Collins Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Female Veterans",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-time-to-end-section-230,Q&A: Time to End Section 230,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Q: What is Section 230?

A: Section 230 refers to the federal statute that provides legal immunity to Big Tech. The outdated law shields social media platforms and prevents parents and victims from seeking justice from online harm. As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I’m co-sponsoring the bipartisan Sunset Section 230 Act to repeal this provision of the Communication Decency Act of 1996. This nearly 30-year old measure was written to give emerging internet entities the runway to get off the ground. It allowed social media companies to host and moderate third-party content unencumbered by the fear of costly litigation. Fast forward three decades, many of these entities are among the most powerful, profitable companies in the world; they use Section 230 to evade badly needed accountability. At the helm of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I’ve convened congressional hearings to gather expert testimony on child online exploitation to inform public policy; heard from witnesses exposing online child extortion rings, like the “764” network; and introduced bipartisan legislation to implement whistleblower protections in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry. I’ll continue advocating for parents, including Deric and Kathy Kidd of Des Moines, who lost their son in 2021 when he took half of what he thought was a pain pill that was actually fentanyl.

Congress must take swift action to empower victims and send a message to Big Tech. With passage of our legislation, social media companies would no longer have license to profit from heinous material and drug trafficking pushed on their platforms with immunity. The day is long overdue to open the courthouse doors for victims of online crimes and exploitation to seek justice and hold wrongdoers accountable.

Q: What are the next steps in the new year?

A: I wrote a bipartisan letter alongside the cosponsors of the Sunset Section 230 Act and called upon the Senate Majority and Minority leaders to prioritize this issue and our bipartisan bill for next year’s legislative calendar. Common sense says Section 230 has outlived its utility and instead fosters a breeding ground for online harms and criminal exploitation. The bottom line is clear: Big Tech is profiting at the expense of the American people, especially young people. Section 230 allows online predators to sexually groom and extort kids. Predators create and distribute AI-generated deepfake pornography; drug traffickers sell fentanyl-laced pills to teenagers; impressionable adolescents experience harm to their mental health, with online content exploiting body image issues, anxieties about isolation and stress over peer exclusion. Vulnerable victims and distraught parents are at their wit’s end with no meaningful relief for exploited consumers. Policymakers need to put the American people first and open the door to our system of justice for the redress of grievances. Too many grieving parents will observe this holiday season another year without a precious son or daughter lost to online exploitation or drug trafficking.

When Congress returns to work in the new year, we’ve asked Senate leaders to dedicate a week in February to advance bipartisan legislation that protects children from online threats – including my landmark legislative package to target lax sentencing laws, violent online criminal networks and child sextortion crimes – and end the crisis that’s cropped up after three decades of legal immunity once and for all. After 30 years in the wilderness of legal immunity, it’s time to chop down Section 230 and give victims of online crimes their day in court and parents better peace of mind.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=136799C1-5C8E-4A3E-B181-5F52F5F5FC03,"Sen. Moran, Colleagues Call on NTIA to Preserve States’ Ability to Use Broadband Infrastructure Funds as Congress Intended",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,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. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation – joined Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and their colleagues in urging Arielle Roth, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), to preserve the ability of states to use their remaining Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) funds consistent with congressional intent.

The senators’ letter also requests NTIA to provide a public accounting of unspent BEAD funds for each state, clarification of NTIA’s current interpretation of allowable “non-deployment” uses and a timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds.

Sens. Moran and Fischer were joined by Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Lisa Murkowski (R- Alaska), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).

“We write to request the agency’s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program,” wrote the senators. “Under the latest BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity, many states likely will — or already do — have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship and redistribution of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide.”

The full letter can be found here and below.

Dear Administrator Roth:

We write to request the agency’s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program. Under the latest BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice, many states likely will — or already do — have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide.

Under the statutory framework established by Section 60102 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (47 U.S.C. § 1702), BEAD funding was intended first and foremost to fund broadband expansion: deployment to unserved locations, then underserved areas and connection of eligible community anchor institutions, before consideration of a broader set of permissible “non[1]deployment” uses to facilitate goals of the program. Congress granted this authority, along with the authority to redistribute unallocated funding amongst eligible entities, to maximize broadband infrastructure buildout – and thereby boost the economic productivity that connectivity brings to every corner of our country.

The current status of non-deployment funding, however, appears unsettled. While NTIA’s recent guidance stated that allowable non-deployment purposes were still under review, we were encouraged by your public comments on December 2, 2025, stating that the agency is “operating under the assumption that the states will get to use their BEAD savings,” though noting that “nothing has been finalized.”

Given these considerations, we respectfully request that NTIA provide:

A public accounting of the BEAD funds for each state, including amounts already committed to deployment projects and amounts remaining unallocated or reserved for non-deployment uses;

Clarification of NTIA’s current interpretation of allowable “non-deployment” uses in light of the June 2025 policy notice and consistent with authorized use of the funds under 47 U.S.C. § 1702 moving forward, and whether any previously approved non-deployment activities may remain eligible; and

A timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds, along with any criteria or conditions under which non-deployment programs will be permitted or prioritized.

In responding, we strongly urge NTIA to preserve states’ ability to use their non-deployment BEAD funds consistent with congressional intent and the bipartisan infrastructure law. We look forward to your timely reply and to ensuring that every BEAD dollar is used to connect Americans for generations to come, as Congress intended.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-applauds-trump-administration-actions-to-protect-america-s-roadways-crack-down-on-cdls-issued-to-illegal-aliens,Sen. Rick Scott Applauds Trump Administration Actions to Protect America’s Roadways & Crack Down on CDLs Issued to Illegal Aliens,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,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 sent a letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem praising their leadership and the Trump administration’s actions to improve roadway safety by cracking down on the reckless issuance of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to illegal aliens after the deadly crash in Florida caused by an illegal alien who was issued a CDL license in California. The administration’s life-saving actions to keep our roadways safe and ensure only qualified drivers operate commercial vehicles on America’s roadways as federal audits and enforcement operations uncovered widespread safety failures by states issuing CDLs to illegal and unqualified drivers.

Read the letter HERE or below:

Dear Secretary Duffy and Secretary Noem:

Thank you for the leadership you, your agencies, and President Trump have shown in advancing policies to make American roadways safe again. I appreciate your efforts to restore safety to our roads following the dangerous Obama-era policy that allowed drivers lacking English proficiency to operate commercial motor vehicles without the ability to comprehend basic traffic signs or speak our language.

Earlier this year, three innocent people in my state of Florida were killed by an illegal alien who was granted a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the state of California. This gut-wrenching tragedy should never have happened, and I appreciate you both taking swift action to ensure this can never happen again.

One vital action in preventing the recurrence of this tragedy was the Department of Transportation’s emergency action this September, restricting eligibility for nondomiciled learner’s permits and CDLs in response to the ongoing nationwide audit by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This much-needed audit has already uncovered blatant disregard for public safety by certain states – especially California, which improperly issued more than 25% of its non-domiciled CDLs.

I was also grateful to see the Department of Homeland Security partner with state and local law enforcement to actively address the threat posed by these illegal and unqualified drivers. During September’s joint operation between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, not only were 91 illegal aliens found to be operating a commercial vehicle with a CDL, but one illegal alien possessed a Real ID-compliant CDL issued by the state of New York to “No Name Given.” The New York Department of Motor Vehicles confirmed that this license was authentic.

The reckless issuance of these CDLs during the previous administrations is clearly a widespread problem. This licensing failure was further highlighted by Operation Midway Blitz, a joint ICE-Indiana State Police operation. As of October 30, this operation resulted in the arrest of 223 illegal aliens on Indiana highways, 40 of whom possessed CDLs.

Thankfully, your agencies and the current administration are working hard to address these very real safety issues and protect American drivers by getting unsafe and unqualified drivers off our roadways.

However, it is deeply concerning that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) reportedly uses the very same drivers that your agencies have worked to keep off our country’s roads in order to protect American lives. These reports indicate the USPS has become dependent on a CDL workforce made up of illegal aliens, and, as a result, it is now rescinding its temporary ban on these same employees after only a few short days, despite guidance from the administration.

Your agencies have shown a commitment to addressing this threat, and I look forward to hearing how you plan to hold USPS and other agencies accountable for this negligence. I am also proud to support your efforts to protect citizens on our roadways by joining my colleague, Senator Ashley Moody, in advancing the Safer Truckers Act, which protects drivers by establishing lawful U.S. residency requirements for CDLs and requiring states to report their adherence to English proficiency standards.

I am also proud to have joined Senator Tom Cotton in advancing the Secure Commercial Driver Licensing Act, which requires all testing relating to the issuance of driver’s licenses to be conducted in English only. These bills are critical steps to build on your action to prevent further tragedies and prioritize the safety of Americans.

Thank you both again for your leadership on this critical public safety issue. Please do not hesitate to contact my office if there are additional ways Congress can support your efforts to make America's roadways safe again.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2340,The Clock is Ticking: Students Have Only a Few Months to Make Grad School Decisions - Kennedy Pushes for Passage of the LEAP Act to Provide Equal Access to Higher Education for In-Demand Professions,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"The Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals Act Restores Fairness and Financial Parity for all Advanced Degree Students

New Misguided Policy Created by the Big, Ugly Bill Slashes Amount Many Borrowers Can Receive, Slamming the Door Shut to Professional Advancement

AMHERST, N.Y. – Joined at Daemen University by educators, professionals, students, and advocates, Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) called for swift passage of his legislation, the Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals (LEAP) Act. With decision time for grad schools coming up in April, Kennedy highlighted the pressing need to provide financial stability and predictability for students seeking advanced degrees. Last week, Kennedy and several colleagues introduced the LEAP Act to rectify a borrowing disparity created by the Republican-led Big, Ugly Bill (H.R. 1). The new legislation aims to restore financial support for advanced degree students, including nurses, physical and occupational therapists, and physicians assistants, whose borrowing limits were significantly reduced while other professional programs remained unaffected. Under Kennedy’s bill, all post-baccalaureate degrees would be eligible to borrow the same $50,000 per year, with a borrowing total of $200,000.

“Becoming an occupational therapist was among the best decisions I ever made,” said Congressman Kennedy. “It opened new doors for me, changed my worldview, and it’s how I met my wife, a physical therapist. For each of us, access to financing was a challenging burden, but one that we took on knowing that we could make a difference in peoples’ lives. Higher education is about more than just earning potential, it’s about your contribution to the community and helping others. Right now, future grad students are studying their options, figuring out if they can enter the career path they’ve always wanted to. We need to pass the LEAP Act to keep that dream alive for future generations who want to play their part.”

“We know that one of the biggest barriers to education is financial, and the new limitations on loans will put degree programs out of reach for many. The healthcare graduate programs with new loan restrictions not only prepare students for more responsibility at the bedside, but they are also required to enter Nurse Education. Loan restrictions for advanced healthcare degrees will create new barriers that will limit enrollment and further deepen the healthcare worker shortage, and reduce the number of people qualified to teach healthcare programs,” said Don Fiorilli, Associate Director, 1199SEIU Training & Employment Funds.

“Equitable access to federal student loans is essential if we expect students to pursue advanced degrees in the health professions our communities depend on most,” said D’Youville University President Dr. Lorrie Clemo. “When loan limits unfairly restrict fields like nursing, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, we risk worsening workforce shortages at a time when demand is only growing. The LEAP Act restores fairness and ensures that students are not priced out of careers dedicated to caring for others.”

“ASHA-certified audiologists and speech-language pathologists in New York thank Rep. Kennedy for his leadership in protecting access to the advanced degrees required to deliver essential communication services,” said Bernadette Mayfield-Clarke, PhD, CCC-SLP, 2025 ASHA President. “Demand for these professionals in New York is projected to grow more than 22% for audiologists and 25% for speech-language pathologists by 2032. Rep. Kennedy’s legislation preserves access to higher federal loan limits, ensuring audiologists and speech-language pathologists can complete their training and meet growing workforce needs statewide.”

“At Kaleida Health, we are committed to supporting our staff’s career growth. We support the Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals (LEAP) Act and thank Congressman Kennedy for his tireless advocacy for New York State’s healthcare professionals. The LEAP Act will help reduce financial barriers for those seeking advanced healthcare degrees and build a more robust healthcare workforce. It is essential that we continue to provide resources for our dedicated staff to advance in their professions. Not only will these meaningful loans strengthen our workforce, but they will also increase access to high quality health care for patients statewide,” said Don Boyd, President and CEO, Kaleida Health.

“The LEAP Act is critical legislation to secure the future of our country by ensuring students interested in pursuing graduate degrees in high-demand fields can access the funding necessary to reach their dreams, realize their potential, and support their families and communities with vital services,” said Canisius University President Steve K. Stoute

“I began my career as a registered nurse, and I know firsthand that graduate education is not a luxury in healthcare — it’s how nurses advance, specialize, and ultimately become the educators who train the next generation,” said Catholic Health CEO Joyce Markiewicz. “I’m grateful to Congressman Kennedy for introducing the LEAP Act, which restores fairness and helps ensure the healthcare professionals our patients rely on can afford the education their careers — and our communities — depend on.”

Under H.R. 1, the Grad PLUS program was eliminated and replaced with a two-tiered system. Beginning in July 2026, so-called “professional” degrees will be eligible for borrowing up to $50,000 per year, while “graduate” degrees will only receive up to $20,500 per year, creating a massive disparity and exacerbating ongoing shortages in critical healthcare and other professional fields. Examples of professional degrees include MDs, JDs, and PharmDs, while graduate degrees include a wide variety of other post-baccalaureate degrees such as nursing, therapy, public health, engineering, teaching, and more. Kennedy, the only occupational therapist in Congress, has heard from a wide range of educators and students who are deeply concerned that their access to their desired field of work is being closed off, threatening to make ongoing professional shortages even worse.

The changes implemented in H.R. 1 are slated to go into effect on July 1, 2026. Kennedy’s legislation, co-led by Reps. Jill Tokuda (HI-2) and Shomari Figures (AL-2) would have the same effective date, ensuring equal access for medical professional students moving forward.

This legislation is endorsed by the AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers; American Occupational Therapy Association; American Physical Therapy Association; Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health; Council on Social Work Education; National Association of Social Workers; National Board of Certification of Occupational Therapy; National Hispanic Health Foundation; Hispanic Health Professionals Network; National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates; Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/banks-delivers-for-indiana-constiuents-in-first-year-in-the-senate/,Banks Delivers for Indiana Constiuents in First Year in the Senate,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) highlighted his office’s constituent service work over the past year, marking his first year representing Hoosiers in the U.S. Senate.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “In my first year in the Senate, my office delivered real results for Hoosiers. I’m proud of the work we did to help thousands of families and return millions of dollars to Indiana.”

Over the past year, Senator Banks’ office delivered the following for Indiana constituents:

Assisted 1,138 Hoosiers with federal casework requests

Helped return $32,841,023.49 to constituents

Responded to 58,811 constituent inquires

Arranged 295 U.S. Capitol tours for Hoosiers visiting Washington, D.C.

Arranged 31 White House tours for Hoosiers visiting Washington, D.C.

In 2026, Senator Banks looks forward to continuing to help Hoosiers who need assistance with a federal agency or who are planning a visit to Washington and want to request tours.

Please feel free to contact his office for assistance or visit his website linked here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-capito-wishes-west-virginians-a-merry-christmas-2025,VIDEO: Capito Wishes West Virginians a Merry Christmas,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WV,Shelley Moore Capito,C001047,www.capito.senate.gov,capito,https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Click here or on the image above to watch the video.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Ahead of Christmas, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released a video message wishing West Virginians a merry Christmas and encouraging them to reflect on what’s most important this holiday season. She also wished everyone a happy new year full of health and happiness.

Full video transcript included below:

“Merry Christmas West Virginia.

“I hope this is a time of great joy and happiness. While you gather with family and loved ones to enjoy the traditions and festivities, I encourage you all to reflect on what’s truly most important during the holiday season.

“This is such a special time to come together to celebrate the blessings we have and renew our hope for a bright new year ahead.

“We must also not forget the brave men and women serving overseas, our first responders and law enforcement officers, and our medical professionals who aren’t able to celebrate with their loved ones because of their selfless service to all of us.

“From my entire family to yours, Merry Christmas. May your days be merry and bright and the year ahead full of health and happiness for you and your family.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-legislation-to-improve-veterans-health-care-passes-senate/,Cassidy Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Health Care Passes Senate,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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) applauded the U.S. Senate passage of his Veterans Health Administration Policy Advisory Commission (VetPAC) Act. The legislation creates a new VetPAC to facilitate a transparent, expert-driven review process for the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) operations. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

“Our veterans put their lives on the line in service to our nation,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We owe them a health care system worthy of that sacrifice. This legislation moves us closer to that standard.”

The VetPAC Act creates a Veterans Health Administration Policy Advisory Commission made up of medical experts and veterans tasked with evaluating VHA performance, identifying areas for improvement, and issuing regular reports to Congress to ensure transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement across the VA health care system.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) in introducing the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/local-spotlight-cassidy-highlights-local-artist-andrew-coleman-for-sharing-the-gospel-through-woodworking/,LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: Cassidy Highlights Local Artist Andrew Coleman for Sharing the Gospel through Woodworking,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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,"(Click here to watch and here to download)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), for his monthly Local Spotlight, highlighted Andrew Coleman, a Louisianan following God’s call to ministry by sharing the Gospel through his artistic gifts. After a year in seminary, Andrew discovered his true calling—serving God and his community through woodworking. Each month, Cassidy highlights a local story that truly reflects Louisiana values of humility, respect, and resiliency.

Read his full December 2025 Local Spotlight below:

Today we are recognizing Andrew Coleman of Coleman’s Handcrafted in Baton Rouge.

Andrew has been an artist from a young age, but he felt deeply connected to the church and sensed that God was calling him to a life of ministry. He entered the Seminary to study for the priesthood.

But after a year, God revealed that his calling takes different shape—that he was not meant to share the Gospel from the pulpit, but through the work of his hands.

Because of his sensitivity to God’s voice and obedience to his artistic calling, Andrew is now a full-time carpenter and woodcarver, commissioning pieces for churches in and around Louisiana.

Andrew, you remind us of a simple truth: When you follow God’s plan for your life, good things happen.

First Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Keep using your gifts. You make Louisiana, our country, and the world a more beautiful and more worshipful place.

Background

In November, Cassidy highlighted Katie Jenkins, owner of STIR Coffee in Baton Rouge, who primarily employs Louisianans with cognitive disabilities. By providing good jobs for people who may otherwise face barriers to employment, Katie is improving life for those she employs and setting a positive example for businesses across the country.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bill-to-exhume-alleged-serial-murderer-from-fort-sam-houston-national-cemetery-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Bill to Exhume Alleged Serial Murderer from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Signed into Law,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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 his bill to require the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter the remains of Fernando V. Cota, an alleged serial murderer and convicted rapist, from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery is a sacred resting place for more than 170,000 respected veterans and their loved ones, and it would be a slap in the face to each one of them to allow Fernando Cota, a convicted rapist and alleged serial murderer, to remain buried amongst such heroes,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law rightfully directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter Cota’s remains from Fort Sam Houston to be in-keeping with current law and deliver justice for victims’ families.”

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is a cosponsor of this legislation.

Background:

Sen. Cornyn’s law directs the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter Fernando V. Cota, an alleged serial murderer and convicted rapist, from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. This comes at the request of the son of one of Cota’s alleged victims.

Fernando Cota was drafted into the U.S. Army and fought in the Vietnam War. Upon returning to the states and transitioning to civilian life, he faced multiple sexual assault allegations, was the prime suspect in the murders of six women in San Jose, California, and was ultimately convicted of attacking a nurse by binding and raping her in 1975. He was imprisoned for two decades, but was later released on parole in 1983. One year later, he was stopped by police officers while driving erratically, leading him to commit suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police found a wooden box in his van with the corpse of a young woman, later identified as 21-year-old Kim Marie Dunham, who had gone missing the day before.

Following Cota’s death, the police received a search warrant for his home, where investigators found a small closet where he would torture his victims. On the walls inside the closet, detectives found many fingerprints, which were sent for examination to identify other potential victims.

Furthermore, investigators found fake ID cards, a false police badge, numerous women’s blouses, six pairs of women’s shoes, and advertisements for tenants, which Cota posted on San Jose State University’s campus to invite local students to rent a room in his apartment. During the investigation, six girls were identified as victims – all killed by being strangled, stabbed, or beaten to death.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-kelly-bill-to-enhance-u-s-mexico-counternarcotics-efforts-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Kelly Bill to Enhance U.S.-Mexico Counternarcotics Efforts Signed into Law",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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 Mark Kelly (D-AZ) released the following statements after their Counternarcotics Enhancement Act, which will require elements of the Intelligence Community to assess any direct relationship with an element of the Government of Mexico, develop a strategy to enhance counternarcotics efforts, and make recommendations or request resources required to implement the strategy in furtherance of the national interest of the United States, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“One innocent life lost because of illicit narcotics smuggled into the U.S. by way of Mexico is one too many,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will ensure our Intelligence Community leverages the U.S.-Mexico relationship to most effectively root out these silent killers and keep Americans safe.”

“To win the fight against drug trafficking, the U.S. and Mexico have to work together against the cartels,” said Sen. Kelly. “This effort with Republicans and Democrats will make our country safer by keeping drugs off our streets through Intelligence Community engagement with the government of Mexico.”

Background:

The Counternarcotics Enhancement Act will require elements of the Intelligence Community to submit to the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) the following information:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-op-ed-republicans-solution-to-affordability-is-through-tax-cuts-for-working-families/,Cornyn Op-Ed: Republicans’ Solution to Affordability is Through Tax Cuts for Working Families,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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) authored the following op-ed in the San Antonio Express News on the benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts, which will put money back into the pockets of hard-working Texans.

Republicans’ Solution to Affordability is Through Tax Cuts for Working Families

Senator John Cornyn

The San Antonio Express-News

In print December 21, 2025

https://www.expressnews.com/opinion/commentary/article/republican-tax-cuts-john-cornyn-21248007.php

Americans are facing an affordability crisis after 40-year high inflation under the Biden administration. A quarter of U.S. households are living paycheck to paycheck, while 56% of voters say that affordability is their top concern. While there is no silver bullet that can magically erase economic anxiety, Republicans have delivered solutions that will ease the burden of rising costs on Texan families through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts.

This legislation, which President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4, helps Americans keep more of what they earn by lowering taxes across the board, with Texans receiving an outsized benefit. We permanently increased the base standard deduction to $15,750 with an annual adjustment for inflation. Without our legislation, the standard deduction would have dropped to $8,300 next year, hurting the more than 12 million Texan families who claim the standard deduction. We also made permanent the lower tax rates from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which were set to expire at the end of 2025. The Tax Foundation estimates that Texans will receive an average tax cut of $3,942 in 2026 from the Working Families Tax Cuts.

The burden of rising costs is particularly acute for families with children, who are often forced to pick between living on one income or budgeting for the increasingly exorbitant cost of child care. Without our legislation, families would have been further pinched next year with the Child Tax Credit scheduled to decrease from $2,000 down to $1,000. The Working Families Tax Cuts prevented this from happening, raising the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 and indexing it to inflation. Additionally, we permanently strengthened the Employer-provided Child Care Credit, which will incentivize businesses to provide child care. These reforms mark a small but important step towards making family life more affordable.

Health care remains one of Americans’ top concerns as medical costs continue to rise. We helped address this by expanding access to Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs. Our bill extended HSA eligibility to individual market bronze and catastrophic plans beginning in 2026, allowing people with individual market plans to save pre-tax dollars, and use those funds to cover eligible medical costs. It also permanently ensures high-deductible health plans can cover telehealth and other remote services before the deductible kicks in, while remaining HSA-eligible. With wider access to HSAs, families can rest a little easier knowing that they will have resources set aside to rely on in the case of an unforeseen medical emergency.

Monthly car payments have become another stress point as high interest rates translate to higher payments. The Working Families Tax Cuts confront this problem as well. Our law introduced a new source of savings for those earning less than $100,000: Texans can now deduct up to $10,000 for interest paid on a loan for a new vehicle made in the U.S. This new deduction will help individuals and families who need to purchase a new car, while incentivizing manufacturing here in the United States. Whereas the Biden administration subsidized electric vehicles, a luxury household item made from materials that rely on Chinese supply chains, Republicans have rightly prioritized tax relief for purchases of made-in-America-cars for the working middle class.

Republicans also delivered targeted relief to hourly-wage workers, tipped workers and seniors through new deductions. We delivered a historic win for the working class with our “No Tax on Tips” and “No Tax on Overtime” provisions. These allow employees and self-employed individuals to deduct up to $25,000 in tip income for tax years 2025 through 2028. We also created a new deduction of up to $12,500 for single filers for qualified overtime income, as well as a new $6,000 deduction for seniors over the age of 65. The U.S. Department of Treasury estimates that about 6 million workers will benefit from the new “No Tax on Tips” policy. Through these deductions, the Working Families Tax Cuts ensure that working Texans and seniors have a little more breathing room when Tax Day comes around.

While there is no magic wand that will lower prices and end financial uncertainty, Republicans have delivered relief through the Working Families Tax Cuts and put more money back into the pockets of working Texans. Our historic reforms will help families, those struggling with health care costs or car payments, as well as hourly workers, tipped workers, and seniors. Through the Working Families Tax Cuts, the Republican Party has delivered a critical step towards one of President Trump’s most important promises to the American people, and that is to make life affordable again.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-alsobrooks-curtis-merkley-introduce-bill-to-reauthorize-wildlife-crossings-program,"Cramer, Alsobrooks, Curtis, Merkley Introduce Bill to Reauthorize Wildlife Crossings Program",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"BISMARCK, N.D. – The Wildlife Crossings Program provides grants for infrastructure improvements designed to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions. States and tribes can apply for grants to create safe paths for wildlife to cross roads and highways, often in the form of enlarged culverts, underpasses, and bridges. The program was authorized for five years in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is set to expire next year.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, EPW T&I Ranking Member U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks and U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced legislation to reauthorize the program.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law created the Wildlife Crossings Program to better protect people and animals from the dangers of vehicle collisions, especially in rural states like North Dakota where the two frequently cross paths,”said Cramer. “Our bill reauthorizes and expands the program to support infrastructure projects directly aimed at improving roadway safety. I’m grateful to Senator Alsobrooks for her leadership of this bipartisan effort, which will benefit critters and communities across the nation.”

“The Wildlife Crossings Program at the Federal Highway Administration provides a unique opportunity to protect both our wildlife and our drivers – it is a true win-win,” said Alsobrooks. “I am proud of the ongoing work in Maryland to develop a comprehensive plan to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions across our state and look forward to supporting Maryland’s efforts by reauthorizing this important program. I want to thank Senators Cramer, Merkley, and Curtis for their partnership on this legislation.”

“The North Dakota Department of Transportation supports the reauthorization and improvements to this discretionary grant, as it creates safer connections to communities and provides critical passage for wildlife across North Dakota’s transportation system,” said North Dakota Department of Transportation Director Ron Henke. “These crossings will enhance year-round recreation by providing safer travel for people of all ages looking to enjoy the outdoor activities that North Dakota has to offer.”

""Reauthorizing the Wildlife Crossings Program is a priority for state fish and wildlife agencies to enhance the movement of wildlife and ensure safer roads,” said Paul Johansen, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “Every year, more than 1 million wildlife-vehicle collisions are reported across the United States, resulting in human and wildlife fatalities and costing billions of dollars in damages. We know there are proven solutions - such as culverts, bridges and tunnels that allow animals to migrate safely - to reduce these incidents and save lives. We applaud Senators Alsobrooks, Cramer, Merkley, and Curtis for the bipartisan introduction of this important bill.”

According to the Federal Highway Administration, each year there are over 1 million wildlife vehicle collisions. These accidents result in tens of thousands of injuries, hundreds of fatalities, and cost over $8 billion.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cruz.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-cruz-kennedy-urge-action-to-protect-us-oil-and-gas-from-eu-methane-mandate,"Sens. Cruz, Kennedy Urge Action to Protect U.S. Oil and Gas from EU Methane Mandate",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Kennedy (R-La.) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and Ambassador Jamieson Greer of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, urging the Trump administration to pressure the European Union to repeal the European Union Methane Regulation (EUMR). The EUMR seeks to regulate oil and gas production within the United States, undermining American energy dominance, infringing on American sovereignty, and potentially harming U.S. energy exports to the European Union.

Below are highlights and excerpts from the letter:

“When fully phased in, the EUMR will set a new, yet-to-be-defined methane intensity standard for U.S. imports of oil and natural gas. This provision, if allowed to go into effect, would mean that regulators in Paris, Berlin, and Brussels would tell operators in Midland and Pittsburgh how, when, and where to produce energy.

“The insinuation that European countries could directly regulate American producers is a gross overstep and breach of bilateral relations—especially in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where American LNG exporters helped fend off the worst-case scenarios by surging cargoes to the region. Europe continues to rely on U.S. LNG to keep homes warm, lights on, and factories operating across the continent. In the absence of U.S. LNG, Europe’s reliance on Russian energy would grow, further undermining European security and reinforcing Russia’s strategic grip on the continent.

“As you meet with your European counterparts to finalize the trade deal implementation action plan, we ask that this administration use all available legal, diplomatic, and economic tools to ensure that the EUMR is repealed in full. Regulating aspects of the EU’s own oil and gas production is within the authority delegated to it by member states—any attempt to extend such regulations to U.S. producers represents a clear and provocative attempt to supersede America’s sovereign right to regulate, through laws passed by the U.S. Congress, its own energy supply.

“Thank you for your commitment to maintaining American energy dominance. We stand ready to work together with this administration to protect U.S. energy producers across the country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2025/12/22/daines-honors-montanan-of-the-month-lieutenant-kirby-dempster/,Daines Honors Montanan of the Month: Lieutenant Kirby Dempster,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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 recognized Lieutenant Kirby Dempster as Montanan of the Month for his service with the Fergus County Sheriff’s Office and his courage in the face of a daunting diagnosis. Through his “Montanan of the Month” initiative, every month Daines highlights a Montanan by submitting a statement of recognition in the Congressional Record, the document that reflects the official proceedings of Congress. To recommend a Montanan click HERE. The following is a statement submitted to the Congressional Record:

TRIBUTE TO LIEUTENANT KIRBY DEMPSTER

Mr. Daines, Mr. President, today I have the honor to recognize Lieutenant Kirby Dempster of the Fergus County Sheriff’s Office in Lewistown, Montana, as Montanan of the Month. For more than eight and a half years, Lieutenant Dempster has served the people of Fergus County with courage, compassion, and integrity. As a supervising officer, he leads both detention and patrol operations and oversees important department initiatives, including cyber-crime prevention efforts focused on protecting children, human-trafficking investigations, and a drone program. Today, we also recognize him for something deeper: his resilience during one of life’s toughest battles. Following a difficult cancer diagnosis, Lieutenant Dempster was confronted with a new fight. However, he and his loved ones did not face it alone. His fellow officers, first responders, and the entire Lewistown community stepped forward without hesitation. Fundraisers were launched, donations poured in, and neighbors showed up to support the Dempster family. This remarkable outpouring of support reflects what Lieutenant Dempster has built in his community over his many years of service. He is known as a strong leader, a mentor, a dedicated public servant, and above all, a devoted family man. Lieutenant Dempster’s commitment to protecting his community, his leadership in the face of hardship, and the community’s support in return embodies the very best of Montana values. His story reminds us of what service truly means and how Montanans stand together when it matters most.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/grassley-nominates-31-iowa-students-to-us-military-academies,Grassley Nominates 31 Iowa Students to U.S. Military Academies,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,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 31 Iowa students seeking acceptance to U.S. military academies.

“I am proud to nominate these 31 young Iowans to our nation’s prestigious military academies,” Grassley said. These young men and women have bright futures, and I’m inspired by their leadership, achievements and motivation to serve our country. It’s my honor to nominate them.”

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 2026-2027 academic year follow:

United States Air Force Academy

Jorge Camarena, Council Bluffs

Gabriel Conrad, Iowa City

Odin Hankins, Ainsworth

Mackenzie McClelland, Grinnell

Charlee DeJong, West Des Moines

Calan Peters, Milford

Lydia Weininger, Palo

Luke Miller, Polk City

Lydia Meunsaveng, Indianola

Alexis Bogardus, Granger

Jackson Goslin, Hiawatha

Camilla McArthur, Atlantic

Carter Mitchell, Des Moines

Shae Magley, Cedar Falls

Jack Franzen, Urbandale

United States Military Academy at West Point

Berit Kallemeier, Urbandale

Avery Schnack, Decorah

Naomi Templeman, Dallas Center

Gabrielle Wilker, Saint Olaf

Kamryn Wolkenhauer, Danville

Alexis Bogardus, Granger

Patrick Bowser, Urbandale

Jackson Goslin, Hiawatha

Jackson Lampe, Dubuque

Camilla McArthur, Atlantic

Quentin Moore, Des Moines

Mackenzie McClelland, Grinnell

Allie Sackett, Cedar Rapids

Daniel Spooner, Mason City

Jack Franzen, Urbandale

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Jackson Lampe, Dubuque

Jack Franzen, Urbandale

United States Naval Academy

Dane Thomas, Cedar Rapids

Joseph Winland, Cedar Falls

Luke Miller, Polk City

Alexis Bogardus, Granger

Patrick Bowser, Urbandale

Charles Crane, West Des Moines

Ellie Hance, Palo

Jackson Lampe, Dubuque

Camilla McArthur, Atlantic

Quentin Moore, Des Moines

Owen Powell, Blue Grass

Connor Rash, Ames

Allie Sackett, Cedar Rapids

Daniel Spooner, Mason City

Jackson Goslin, Hiawatha",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/hyde-smith-wishes-mississippians-hope-love-peace-2025-christmas-message,"HYDE-SMITH WISHES MISSISSIPPIANS ‘HOPE, LOVE & PEACE’ IN 2025 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Cindy Hyde-Smith,H001079,www.hydesmith.senate.gov,hydesmith,https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/newsroom,scraper,"VIDEO: Senator Hyde-Smith Issues 2025 Christmas Message

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today issued her 2025 Christmas message, in which she encourages Mississippians to “slow down, take stock of our blessings, and remember the light that guides us to seek peace even when we face uncertainty.”

Read Senator Hyde-Smith’s Christmas message below:

Merry Christmas, Mississippi!

This season reminds us of the simple, yet profound, gifts that we are given – love, peace, and hope.

Christmas invites us to slow down, take stock of our blessings, and remember the light that guides us to seek peace even when we face uncertainty.

Across Mississippi, I see that light every day: in neighbors lending a hand, in communities standing strong together in good times and bad, and in the unwavering spirit that makes the Magnolia State such a remarkable place to call home.

As Christians, we also pause to reflect on the incredible gift God gave us through the birth of His Son.

In Him, we find perfect love, enduring hope, and the promise of peace that the world cannot offer. His life teaches us to love others, as He first loved us.

Christ’s example calls us to comfort the hurting, support the weary, and serve those in need.

As we dwell on the wonders of this season, let’s remember to express gratitude for the men and women in uniform who are spending this season far from home and their families to protect the freedoms we hold dear.

We are also thankful for our first responders and healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and healthy.

My prayer for every Mississippian is that your Christmas is filled with hope, love, and peace. And may God bless you in the year ahead.

From my family to yours, I wish you a blessed Christmas and a new year full of promise.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.justice.senate.gov/press-releases/senators-justice-warner-introduce-bipartisan-bill-child-care-supply-tax-credit-act-of-2025,"Senators Justice, Warner Introduce Bipartisan Bill, Child Care Supply Tax Credit Act of 2025",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WV,James C. Justice,J000312,www.justice.senate.gov,justice,https://www.justice.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Senator Jim Justice (R-WV) and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced S.3534, the Child Care Supply Tax Credit Act of 2025, to address the nationwide childcare shortage and increase childcare supply for families across the country:

“Childcare providers simply can’t afford to pay their workers enough without passing those high costs on to parents. Families in West Virginia and across the country are spending thousands of dollars just to secure reliable childcare – it must be addressed. By creating a targeted tax credit tied directly to caregiver wages, we can pay the people who take care of our kids what they deserve while giving our hard-working families some breathing room,” said Senator Jim Justice.

“From health care premiums to groceries to utility bills, life is only getting more and more expensive for American families, and for many, the math simply doesn’t work without affordable child care. Child care is the foundation that allows parents to earn a living while providing kids with the head start they deserve. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to address the workforce challenges contributing to our nation’s child care crisis,” said Senator Mark Warner.

BACKGROUND:

Childcare providers operate on razor-thin margins; therefore, they typically can’t pay their workers well. But families can only afford to pay so much for childcare, meaning providers can’t raise their prices to offer competitive wages. Poor pay leads to high turnover, difficulty attracting qualified staff, centers operating below licensed capacity, and even facilities permanently closing—only adding to the childcare shortage. In West Virginia alone, families need an additional 20,000 childcare spots.

The Child Care Supply Tax Credit Act of 2025 creates a new tax credit for eligible childcare providers to help offset the cost of employee wages, allowing providers to increase worker wages, retain talent, and increase childcare supply.

The general business tax credit is equal to five percent of their childcare worker base wage—meaning all wages paid to employees that provide direct care to children. In rural regions—practically all of West Virginia—centers would be eligible to receive a tax credit worth seven percent.

The bill allows the credit to be paid directly to nonprofit providers, like churches, and in-home daycares.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=182BD663-CD18-4A42-9C95-7B67265B69C7,"McConnell, Shaheen in The Washington Post: Russia Isn’t Winning Its War On Ukraine.",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KY,Mitch McConnell,M000355,www.mcconnell.senate.gov,mcconnell,https://www.mcconnell.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Jean Shaheen (D-NH) submitted the following op-ed published by The Washington Post:

In the early days of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Biden administration gave Congress its assessment of Ukraine’s ability to hold back Russian forces. The projection was bleak. Kyiv, they said, would fall in weeks, if not sooner.

Yet, the Russian tanks that attempted to topple Ukraine’s democratically elected government were either destroyed or forced to retreat. By April, not only had Putin failed to install a friendly government in Kyiv, his military couldn’t secure a foothold anywhere near Ukraine’s capital. Instead, Ukraine successfully confined Russia’s troops to the far east of their country, where Russia has tried to steal territory since 2015.

After almost four years of fighting, Russia has lost about a third of its strategic bombers, and it continues to lose equipment at significantly higher rates than Ukraine. It is Russia that has borne more than 1 million casualties, dead and wounded, in grinding battles of its own making. Pundits who predicted a quick Ukrainian defeat were wrong in 2022, and they are wrong today.

Along the way, Republicans and Democrats alike criticized the Biden administration’s excessive caution in refusing to provide Ukraine the weapons it needed, when they could have made the biggest difference. It is more than plausible that the Ukrainians could have achieved a decisive victory and lasting peace if they were simply granted the fighter jets, air defenses and long-range weapons when they initially requested them from President Joe Biden. But American assistance was often too little, too late.

In prolonging Putin’s aggression, this hesitation also gave China, Iran, North Korea and other nations working together to undermine American interests new reasons to doubt our credibility and strength.

Fortunately, the opportunity for President Donald Trump to end this conflict on favorable terms for Ukraine, America and the West has not passed. But he must not continue to make the same miscalculation that his predecessor made in 2022.

Administration officials say that the “fall” of the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk is a bellwether for what’s to come for Ukraine. Yet, Pokrovsk, whose population was only around 60,000 even before the war, has yet to fall. And in the entire year and a half that the Russians have spent trying to take this relatively small city, their minuscule gains have come at staggering material and human costs.

Russians are paying an extraordinary economic price in pursuit of Putin’s lust for glory and blood. Russian oil and gas revenue have fallen more than 30 percent due to attacks on its energy infrastructure. The Kremlin has been selling gold to stabilize its finances and shield elites from the true cost of Putin’s war. And roughly a quarter of Russian companies are now bankrupt or at risk. Russia cannot afford the war it is fighting, but it can prolong it.

Putin may be playing for time, but he is not dragging out this conflict because it is his preferred tactic. He is dragging it out because he cannot achieve a decisive victory. He’s hoping that slow, grinding attrition will divide the West.

Instead, the United States must stand with European allies investing heavily in their own defense and far exceeding American support to Ukraine. If there are economic fruits of peace, they lie in cooperation with an innovative, Western-oriented Ukraine and a resurgent Europe, not in a bankrupt, backward Russia.

Envoy Steve Witkoff has been to Moscow six times since the administration took office and worked to get Putin an invitation to the U.S. Yet, just as the Russians have barely moved in their ground offensive against Ukraine, they have not moved an inch in negotiations with the U.S.

It is fair to ask what the U.S.’s endgame should be. Wars end when leverage changes. If the U.S. and its allies want a negotiated end, the only proven, viable path is to strengthen Ukraine’s position, not to weaken it. Abandoning Ukraine or granting Russia what it cannot win on the battlefield will not bring lasting peace. Putin wants more than Donbas — he denies Ukrainian sovereignty outright. And his ambitions extend to the Baltic states and other nations once held captive by the Soviet empire.

Congress has an array of bipartisan tools to increase pressure on Putin. In October, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee advanced measures to tighten sanctions enforcement, restrict Chinese support for Russia’s war machine and authorize transferring frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine. The Trump administration’s recent sanctions against Lukoil and Rosneft have had a profound effect, but much more is required.

Additional investment in the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative — which received overwhelming bipartisan support in the National Defense Authorization Act and the Senate’s defense appropriations, and which is spent here at home to reconstitute America’s defense industrial capacity — would bolster European contributions and help ensure Ukraine has the air defenses, long-range weapons and industrial support needed to sustain a position of strength.

Putin is betting the U.S. will talk itself into believing Ukraine cannot succeed. The past four years show the opposite. Ukraine has defied every expectation, including our own. Kyiv is not losing, and Moscow is not winning. It is up to Washington to match Ukraine’s resolve with the clarity this moment demands.",1,2026-04-03T05:34:17Z,2026-04-03T05:35:48Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=985E345A-876F-43F0-8209-35ECE6E48A7C,Sen. Moran Visits All 105 Kansas Counties in 2025,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"MANHATTAN, KS – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement after visiting Wabaunsee County, completing visits to all 105 Kansas counties in 2025:

“Visiting each of the 105 counties in Kansas and having conversations with Kansans during these stops helps guide my efforts to represent our state in Washington, D.C. This year, I focused on visiting rural hospitals and was able to meet with nurses and doctors at 49 Kansas hospitals and hear directly from them about the unique challenges of delivering essential care in rural communities. Whether touring a hospital, speaking with veterans, stopping at local businesses or family farms, meeting students, or participating in civic groups, I appreciate Kansans sharing with me the challenges they are facing and their ideas to improve life in our state. I’m grateful for the kindness and hospitality shown to me during these visits, and I look forward to future opportunities to meet with and learn from those in communities in every corner of Kansas.”

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-in-the-miami-herald-time-to-fix-our-broken-health-care-system-empower-patients-and-drive-down-costs,"IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Sen. Rick Scott in the Miami Herald: Time to Fix Our Broken Health Care System, Empower Patients and Drive Down Costs",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Senator Rick Scott wrote a letter to the editor of the Miami Herald responding to a recent piece demanding solutions to the health care crisis Obamacare created for our nation, which continues to fail Floridians and Americans. In his response, Senator Scott highlights his push to deliver those solutions with his More Affordable Care Act that will put families — not insurance companies or Washington bureaucrats — back in control of their health care by empowering patients with their decisions, increasing transparency in health care, and driving down costs.

In the letter, Senator Scott wrote, “It’s heartbreaking to see Floridians struggle to afford health care…Growing up, my family was poor. My mother drove hours to the nearest charity hospital so my brother, who had a hip disease, could receive care. It shouldn’t be this hard for Americans to get health care that’s affordable and works for them. I want to fix that.

…

“Democrats created Obamacare, but Republicans must fix it. If we don’t, we’re just rubber-stamping what we all acknowledge is a broken system full of broken promises. That’s why I’m working to pass my More Affordable Care Act…

…

“My bill would drive down costs by allowing Americans to make decisions and empowering them with the information they need to make the best health care choices for their families.

…

“We can pass this bill today to bring change that will drive down costs for families.”

Read the full letter to the editor in the Miami Herald HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sens-rick-scott-john-fetterman-introduce-disclosing-investment-in-foreign-adversaries-act-to-protect-american-investors-from-adversarial-countries,"Sens. Rick Scott, John Fetterman Introduce Disclosing Investment in Foreign Adversaries Act to Protect American Investors from Adversarial Countries",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Rick Scott and John Fetterman announced the introduction of the Disclosing Investment in Foreign Adversaries Act to provide transparency for Americans into investments made by American private equity firms into countries of concern, such as Russia or Communist China, so Americans are not unknowingly investing their hard-earned savings and retirement funds into U.S. adversaries. The legislation addresses this problem by requiring private equity, mutual funds, and ETFs to annually disclose the percentage of any assets invested in countries like China to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC); requiring the SEC to publicly release a report of firms investing assets in countries of concern and the percentage of those invested assets; and requiring entities selling stock in the private markets to disclose the recipient of the investment, the intended location of the investment, and the investment’s intended purpose.

Senator Rick Scott said, “Our adversaries, like Communist China and Russia, benefit from the current status quo that grants them a complete lack of transparency, and currently, our financial markets enable and often help fund their bad behavior. These foreign adversaries lie, cheat, steal, and abuse their own people using the power of American investment dollars, and without public disclosure and accountability, they can get away with it. I am proud to lead this bill to provide Americans transparency on how their savings are being invested, and which companies and regimes they may be supporting. We have to stop sending Americans’ hard-earned dollars to fuel our enemies’ hate against us.”

Senator John Fetterman said, “You work hard for your money, and you should absolutely know how it’s being invested, especially if it boosts the economies of our adversaries. This bill protects the interests of hardworking Americans and our great country, while making sure firms publicly disclose what they are doing. When I think of ‘America first,’ this bill is a good example.”

The Disclosing Investment in Foreign Adversaries Act, which Senator Scott introduced last Congress, is the latest of Senator Scott’s bills to hold Communist China accountable for working to destroy America’s financial systems, including a five-bill package aimed at protecting American investors from China’s financial exploitation and legislation cracking down on Chinese influence in American markets.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.rounds.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-trump-signs-rounds-wounded-knee-bill-into-law,President Trump Signs Rounds’ Wounded Knee Bill into Law,2025-12-20,2025,2025-12,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.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, today issued the following statement after President Trump signed Rounds’ bill, the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act, into law.

“President Trump has officially signed the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act into law,” said Rounds. “The land at this symbolic and sacred site will now be held in possession of both the Oglala Sioux and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes to be preserved for future generations. I’m pleased that our work on this legislation over the past three years has paid off. We will continue to tell the story of Wounded Knee and the events that occurred at this location 135 years ago this month.”

The Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act would place 40 acres of land at the site of the Wounded Knee Massacre into restricted fee status, making certain that the land is held by both the Oglala Sioux and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes for generations to come.

BACKGROUND:

Rounds first introduced the Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act in June 2023. Ryman LeBeau, Chairman of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, and Frank Star Comes Out, President of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, testified on the legislation in a Senate Committee on Indian Affairs hearing. The committee later unanimously passed legislation, but was blocked from passing the full Senate.

Rounds later reintroduced the bill to the 119th Congress in January 2025. The Wounded Knee Massacre Memorial and Sacred Site Act unanimously passed the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs in March 2025, and unanimously passed the full Senate on December 11, 2025. This legislation is cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.). Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced companion legislation in the House.

Click HERE to read full bill text.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/barrasso-statement-on-cynthia-lummis/,Barrasso Statement on Cynthia Lummis,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement regarding Senator Cynthia Lummis’ (R-Wyo.) announcement that she won’t be running for reelection.

“Cynthia Lummis is a perfect senator for Wyoming. From Miss Frontier Days to the Wyoming Legislature to the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate – Cynthia has never stopped fighting for the people of Wyoming.

“Cynthia is a straight shooter and a trailblazer. We’re going to miss her infectious energy and iconic laugh in the halls of the U.S. Senate. I’m grateful we have another year to work side by side serving the people of Wyoming.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/technology/blackburn-unveils-national-policy-framework-for-artificial-intelligence,Blackburn Unveils National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) unveiled a section-by-section summary of The Republic Unifying Meritocratic Performance Advancing Machine intelligence by Eliminating Regulatory Interstate Chaos Across American Industry (TRUMP AMERICA AI Act). This legislative framework would codify President Trump’s executive order to create one rulebook for artificial intelligence (AI) that protects children, creators, conservatives, and communities from harm while ensuring the United States wins the global race for AI supremacy.

“Instead of pushing AI amnesty, President Trump rightfully called on Congress to pass federal standards and protections to solve the patchwork of state laws that have hindered AI innovation,” said Senator Blackburn. “I look forward to introducing the TRUMP AMERICA AI Act in the new year to create one federal rulebook for AI to protect children, creators, conservatives, and communities across the country and ensure America triumphs over foreign adversaries in the global race for AI dominance.”

TRUMP AMERICA AI ACT

Below is a summary of how Senator Blackburn’s TRUMP AMERICA AI Act would protect the “4 Cs” (children, creators, conservatives, and communities) from exploitation, abuse, and censorship and ensure American AI companies can innovate without cumbersome regulation. This framework includes legislation Senator Blackburn has previously introduced, the Kids Online Safety Act and NO FAKES Act, to protect children and creators.

Protecting Children

Places a duty of care on AI developers in the design, development, and operation of AI platforms to prevent and mitigate foreseeable harm to users.

Requires AI platforms to conduct regular risk assessments of how algorithmic systems, engagement mechanics, and data practices contribute to psychological, physical, financial, and exploitative harms.

Reforms Section 230 by incentivizing the development and utilization of blocking and filtering technologies that empower parents to restrict their children’s access to objectionable or inappropriate online material.

Requiring interactive computer services to notify users that parental control protections (such as computer hardware, software, or filtering services) are commercially available that may assist the user limit access to material that is harmful to minors.

Requires covered online platforms, including social media platforms, to implement tools and safeguards to protect users and visitors under the age of 17 to protect children from sex trafficking, suicide, and other abuses.

Requires covered platforms to exercise reasonable care in the design and use of features that increase minors’ online activity to prevent and mitigate harm to minors (e.g., mental health disorders and severe harassment).

Requires covered platforms to provide certain safeguards to minors, such as protections for minors’ data; tools for parents of minors, such as access to minors’ privacy settings; and a mechanism for account holders and visitors to report harm to minors on the platform.

Prohibits covered platforms from conducting market or product research on children under the age of 13 and may only conduct research on those under the age of 17 with parental consent.

Establishes requirements for companies providing AI chatbot and companion services to protect kids.

Prevents systemically important platforms from disseminating sexual material harmful to minors.

Protecting Creators

Creates a federal right for individuals to sue companies for using their data (personal, copyrighted) for AI training without explicit consent and requires affirmative consent for data use in AI models, addressing issues like unauthorized scraping of creative works.

Addresses the use of non-consensual digital replications in audiovisual works, images, or sound recordings by:

Holding individuals or companies liable if they produce an unauthorized digital replica of an individual in a performance.

Holding platforms liable for hosting an unauthorized digital replica if the platform has actual knowledge of the fact that the replica was not authorized by the individual depicted.

Deems derivative works generated, synthesized, or produced by an AI system without authorization as infringing works, which would be ineligible for copyright protection.

Preserves and promotes competition among AI developers by mandating nondiscriminatory access to licensed content.

Protecting Conservatives

Combats the consistent pattern of bias against conservative figures demonstrated by Big Tech and AI systems by requiring:

Audits of high-risk AI systems to undergo regular bias evaluations to prevent discrimination based on protected characteristics, including political affiliation.

High-risk AI systems cover those that could pose significant risks to health, safety, rights, or economic security, including those in education, employment, law enforcement, or critical infrastructure.

Federal agencies and covered entities to provide AI ethics training to personnel.

Covered entities are any person, partnership, corporation, or other entity engaged in the development, deployment, or operation of AI systems, including federal agencies, that meet thresholds established by the Federal Trade Commission.

Protecting Communities

Requires certain companies and federal agencies to issue reports on AI-related job effects, including layoffs and job displacement to the Department of Labor (DOL) on a quarterly basis.

Requires the DOL to compile data on AI-related job effects and publish a report to Congress and the public.

Requires data center operators to be responsible for the full cost of all energy and water infrastructure needed for their operation, including construction, maintenance, and upgrades with no impact on ratepayers.

Click here to read the full section-by-section summary of the TRUMP AMERICA AI Act.

ENDORSEMENTS

This legislative framework is supported by Mike Davis and Steve Bannon:

“Senator Marsha Blackburn’s TRUMP AMERICA AI Act is a major MAGA victory that follows President Trump’s leadership in putting America first in the AI race while protecting our values and our freedoms. This bill protects the Four C’s: children, conservatives, communities, and creators. This bill finally forces Big Tech to build in real guardrails... It pushes back on blue-state speech policing and bias mandates, ensuring AI isn’t weaponized to silence lawful viewpoints. It prioritizes American workers and infrastructure... Finally, the TRUMP AMERICA AI Act establishes national rules on training data, deepfakes, and AI-generated knockoffs so artists, writers, and innovators get paid and protected. President Trump’s executive order set the national policy: end the 50-state patchwork, stop coercive ‘algorithmic discrimination’ mandates that force false outputs, and preempt unlawful state overreach. Senator Blackburn’s bill puts that vision into action... This is how we make America the global leader in AI: a single, constitutional framework that unleashes our entrepreneurs, safeguards our rights, and serves our people. President Trump is leading. Senator Blackburn is delivering. Congress should pass the TRUMP AMERICA AI Act and keep America great, and first, in AI,” said Mike Davis, Founder and President of the Article III Project.

“Over the summer, Senator Blackburn led the movement to defeat the AI amnesty push in the One Big Beautiful Bill, and she has been a fierce advocate in protecting all Americans from the abuse of AI. The TRUMP AMERICA AI Act would establish an enforceable federal standard to ensure that tech bros can’t get rich by exploiting Americans in the AI Wild West,” said Steve Bannon, Host of the War Room on Real America’s Voice News.

RELATED

VIDEO: Blackburn Leads Effort to Remove AI Moratorium from Big Beautiful Bill, Protecting Tennessee Creators & Kids from Harm

Blackburn, Blumenthal, Thune, and Schumer Introduce the Kids Online Safety Act",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-u-s-senator-katie-britt-joins-treasury-secretary-scott-bessent-discusses-trump-accounts-at-the-treasury-department/,"ICYMI: U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Discusses Trump Accounts at the Treasury Department",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Commissioner of the United States Social Security Administration (SSA) Frank Bisignano, and co-founder of Airbnb and Chief Design Officer of the National Design Studio Joe Gebbia at the Treasury Department this week to discuss Trump Accounts—a central component of the Working Families Tax Cut Act that invests in the next generation of Americans in unique and historic way.

Following remarks from Secretary Bessent and Speaker Johnson, Senator Britt joined Gebbia for a fireside chat to discuss Trump Accounts. Excerpts from their conversation are below, and a full video can be found here.

On how President Trump and Republicans are laser focused on securing the American Dream for the next generation:

“Look, this is transformational … And so many of us remember being in the hospital and having this beautiful baby … and you start to think of all that you want to provide for your child. And the immediate things you think about are what’s right in front of you. You know, diapers and the right car seat for safety … But ultimately, what you want for your child, for every child, is a chance at the American Dream.”

“And look, after the last four years of the previous administration … with the inflation and just the cost of life in general, many people felt like that [American] Dream was out of reach. And the incredible thing about the Working Families Tax Cut is that President Trump said, ‘No, we’re going to make good on the promises we made to the American people. We are going to see these parents and help them provide that opportunity. And we want the next generation to be better off as a result of our leadership.’ And I think there is no…greater evidence of that than these accounts.”

“And when we’re looking at America and the fact that we are that shining city on the hill, everybody wants to be a part of that … How do we create a pathway for these kids maybe in an underserved community or have not previously had access to have the ability to achieve that American dream? And that’s what this does. And we are going to look back on this moment and see that it not only changed our nation and how we work together, from government to companies to philanthropist, but it is truly going to change lives.”

“Look, there is no doubt that under President Trump’s leadership, the Republican Party has become the party of families. We have become the party of parents. We’ve become the party of hard-working Americans. And so, to get to be a part of delivering on that has really been incredible.”

Senator Britt alongside SSA Commissioner Bisignano, Treasury Secretary Bessent, Speaker Johnson, and Joe Gebbia.

On her successful efforts to make child care more affordable and accessible in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act:

“One of the other things that I was proud to lead the effort [on] in the Working Families Tax Cut [Act] was actually addressing the affordability and accessibility of child care. So, it doesn’t matter if you’re talking to our largest manufacturers or our smallest business on a main street in a community in Alabama, they tell you being able to recruit and retain a workforce is one of the things that they deal with. And one of the issues that they have with that is affordability and accessibility of child care … So, this is transformative because we’ve heard people talk about affordability of child care for years. President Trump and this administration and the Republican Senate and House actually did something about it.”

What They Are Saying:

SCOOP: Sen. Katie Britt kicks off launch of Trump Accounts alongside Secretary Bessent, Speaker Johnson, and more

Bessent unveils new Trump Accounts website as part of push to encourage saving for children

Bessent announces hedge fund manager Ray Dalio will personally donate to ‘Trump accounts’

Billionaire Ray Dalio joins push to fund Trump Accounts: ‘Been fortunate to live the American Dream’

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/u-s-senator-katie-britt-applauds-passage-of-2026-national-defense-authorization-act/,U.S. Senator Katie Britt Applauds Passage of 2026 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined her colleagues in voting to pass the final version of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). Today, President Trump signed the bill into law. In addition to bolstering our nation’s defense, the FY26 NDAA includes several measures secured by Senator Britt that will directly benefit Alabama.

“The NDAA has passed annually for 65 years in a row and is one of our nation’s most important pieces of legislation. I’m proud to have supported the FY26 NDAA, which executes on President Trump’s and Senate Republicans’ commitment to strengthen our nation’s military capabilities and warfighter, ensure America remains equipped to meet 21st-century threats, and maintain our global military leadership,” said Senator Britt.

The FY26 NDAA returns the Department of War to its warfighting mission, assists President Trump in securing our border and defending our homeland, builds on military recruitment efforts that continue to reach record highs, strengthens deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, and pushes back against Russian aggression and terrorist activity. The legislation also includes a number of wins for Alabama.

On how the FY26 NDAA delivers for Alabama, Senator Britt said, “The role that Alabama plays in our national defense is incalculable. Ensuring our state continues to play a central role in bolstering our warfighter and defense capabilities is pivotal, and I’m proud to have helped deliver continued investment in our state.”

Alabama Wins in the FY26 NDAA:

Military Construction at Alabama Bases:

$50 million for an access control point at the Anniston Army Depot.

$55 million for a propulsion systems building at Redstone Arsenal.

$64 million for a general-purpose warehouse at the DLA distribution center in Anniston.

$28 million for area maintenance support activity at Maxwell Air Force Base.

Bolstering Innovation through Investments in Defense Capabilities:

$3.9 million for missile enhancement with electric motor prototypes

$7 million for infantry support weapons, including combat aviation aircrew enhancement

$18 million for air defense command, control, and intelligence, including air and missile defense common operating picture

$239 million for M-VEST for Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD)

$10 million for an embedded hypersonic seeker in Navy RDT&E

The FY26 NDAA also addresses readiness concerns at Alabama bases, including the understaffing of gate guards like at Redstone Arsenal by authorizing contract guards to augment existing force protection options at military installations, expedites construction of Space Command’s headquarters in Huntsville, and more.

It also overhauls the broken acquisition system so companies in Alabama can get new programs moving faster and with less red tape. As a result, Alabama’s defense industry will see faster contracts, fewer regulatory barriers, and greater demand.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-tax-credit-to-help-families-and-small-businesses-prepare-for-natural-disasters/,Cassidy Introduces Tax Credit to Help Families and Small Businesses Prepare for Natural Disasters,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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) introduced the Shelter Act to help families and small businesses protect their homes and properties from future natural disasters and combat rising insurance costs. The legislation would create a first-of-its-kind disaster mitigation tax credit for families and business owners in disaster-prone areas.

“Everybody in my state has lost someone or something they love because of flooding. This is another tool for families to minimize that loss,”said Dr. Cassidy.

The Shelter Act allows Americans to write off 25 percent of qualifying mitigation expenses, up to $3,750 per taxpayer, to help homes and businesses reinforce their properties against natural disasters such as flood, wildfire, hail, and wind. This would be the first-ever federal tax incentive to help families and businesses invest in disaster resilience and mitigation ahead of time, helping offset the hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars spent on natural disaster recovery each year.

The Shelter Act is supported by: National Institute of Building Sciences, National Association of Realtors, National Association of Home Builders, Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Reinsurance Association of America (RAA), and Satellite Condominiums LLC.Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) as well as U.S. Representatives Maria Salazar (R-FL-27) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07) in introducing the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-kennedy-introduce-resolution-commemorating-bicentennial-of-centenary-college-of-louisiana/,"Cassidy, Kennedy Introduce Resolution Commemorating Bicentennial of Centenary College of Louisiana",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced a resolution commending Centenary College of Louisiana on the occasion of its bicentennial for its contributions to higher education in Louisiana and across the country.

“For 200 years, Centenary College of Louisiana shapes leaders and serves the Shreveport community and our entire state,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Its bicentennial is a celebration of the past and the bright future ahead.”

“For 200 years, Centenary College has helped shape Louisiana’s leaders, strengthened the Shreveport-Bossier community, and upheld the best traditions of higher education. This bicentennial is a testament to the college’s resilience, academic excellence, and lasting impact on our state. I’m proud to see the Senate pass my resolution honoring this great institution,” said Kennedy.

“Centenary is proud to be Louisiana’s oldest college. For two hundred years, the college has been preparing students to serve our state, region, and nation as physicians, scientists, clergy, business people, artists, and so much more. We are grateful for the support of our community and are excited to being our third century of service,” said Dr. Christopher Holoman, President, Centenary College.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-ricketts-republican-colleagues-support-president-trumps-executive-order-to-stop-politically-motivated-debanking/,"Cassidy, Ricketts, Republican Colleagues Support President Trump’s Executive Order to Stop Politically Motivated Debanking",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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) today joined U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Republican colleagues in urging the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to combat politically motivated “debanking” in line with President Trump’s recent Executive Order. The senators called on the OCC to ensure access to financial services is based on objective, individualized, risk-based standards and not political discrimination. In recent years, conservative, religious, and other lawful organizations have reported being denied or stripped of banking services based on their beliefs or affiliations, raising serious concerns about discrimination within the financial system.

“As the OCC works to implement the E.O., we encourage you to fully assess and address the negative impacts of voluntary debanking,” wrote the senators.

“The OCC should consider rulemaking to eliminate politically motivated, voluntary debanking and require financial institutions to offer financial services based on objective and individualized risk-based analysis,” continued the senators.

Cassidy and Ricketts were joined by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jim Justice (R-WV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Jim Risch (R-ID) in sending the letter.

Read the full text of the letter here or below.

Dear Comptroller Gould:

We write to you to express our support for President Trump’s “Guaranteeing Fair Banking for All Americans” Executive Order (E.O.). As you work to finalize the E.O., we want to highlight the need to address all forms of politically-motivated debanking.

We are encouraged by the progress already made by the Trump Administration, including the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) under your leadership, to eliminate all remaining vestiges of Operation Choke Point” (OCP) and “Operation Choke Point 2.0” (OCP 2.0). In your statement in support of the E.O., we were pleased to see that you already removed reputational risk from OCC guidance and that you intend to ensure unlawful debanking is not repeated in the future. In order to effectively eliminate the harmful effects of OCP 1.0 and 2.0, an exhaustive review of all relevant federal government guidance documents, regulations, and internal policies is necessary. We appreciate your steadfast commitment to achieving that objective.

Despite the end of OCP 1.0 and 2.0, some financial institutions continue to adopt discriminatory policies voluntarily. While we are starting to see companies update their policies, action must be taken to stop this voluntary-type of debanking in the future. As the OCC works to implement the E.O., we encourage you to fully assess and address the negative impacts of voluntary debanking. As a part of this effort, the OCC should consider rulemaking to eliminate politically motivated, voluntary debanking and require financial institutions to offer financial services based on objective and individualized risk-based analysis – a process that began during President Trump’s first term.

Again, thank you for your leadership and commitment to a sound, thriving financial system. We support the OCC’s efforts to orient federal financial service industry regulations, guidance, and enforcement away from political discrimination to ensure all individuals have access to necessary banking services.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-bill-to-combat-cartels-in-mexico-signed-into-law/,Cornyn Bill to Combat Cartels in Mexico Signed into Law,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 Partnership for Advancing Regional Training and Narcotics Enforcement Response Strategies (PARTNERS) Act, which requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to recommend future additional joint training with Mexican military forces to combat cartels, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Texas shares more than 1,200 miles of common border with Mexico, and bilateral cooperation is essential to stop the flow of deadly drugs and keep people safe,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will empower the Department of War to train Mexican military forces in counternarcotic efforts to crack down on cartels and bolster the national security of both countries.”

Sen. Angus King (I-ME) is a cosponsor of this legislation.

Background:

The PARTNERS Act will create a military-to-military pilot program through the DoD to bring Mexican military forces to the U.S. to receive tactical training that they can employ in Mexico to counter transnational criminal organizations (TCO), including cartels, weapons dealers, drug traffickers, and human smugglers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-bill-to-combat-child-exploitation-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues’ Bill to Combat Child Exploitation Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) released the following statements after their PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has a long history of equipping our law enforcement officers with the tools needed to safeguard children online and hold perpetrators accountable,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will reauthorize and update this critical program to address the evolving digital threat landscape and protect our children from these heinous crimes, and I’m glad it is now the law of the land thanks to President Trump.”

“The PROTECT our Children Act—bipartisan legislation to fight child exploitation and abuse online—is now law,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Put into action, our measure will ensure that Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces and their law enforcement partners have the tools and resources they need to protect kids from online predators and hold bad actors accountable.”

“The threats children face are growing by the day, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure law enforcement has the resources needed to protect them,” said Sen. Blackburn. “By signing the PROTECT Our Children Act into law, President Trump has reauthorized and modernized the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program to help identify predators, stop abuse, and keep kids safe.”

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) is also a cosponsor of this legislation.

Background:

The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions.

From 1998 to 2022, ICAC Task Forces trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigate and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They also reviewed more than 1.4 million reports of online child exploitation, which resulted in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.

The PROTECT Our Children Act would:

Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide;

Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material;

Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs;

Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations;

And reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2028.

The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC) and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA).

Sen. Cornyn has long championed the ICAC Task Force Program and has led its reauthorization efforts in the U.S. Senate since 2017.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-celebrates-trump-admins-water-delivery-agreement-with-mexico/,Cornyn Celebrates Trump Admin’s Water Delivery Agreement with Mexico,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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) today released the following statement celebrating the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) agreement with Mexico to meet their water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty and the arrival of Mexico’s delivery to the U.S.:

“After many months of pressure from the Trump administration and myself, I am pleased that Mexico has finally agreed to deliver more water it owes under the 1944 Water Treaty and has started to make those disbursements to the United States this week,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Thanks to the hard work of President Trump and Secretary Rollins, farmers and ranchers in South Texas can finally begin to have some certainty on the water deliveries they need to ensure their crops and livestock can thrive, and I will continue working with the administration to ensure the United States receives the water we are owed.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn has led the charge in Congress to boost South Texas’ water supply and ensure Mexico fulfills its treaty obligations to provide annual deliveries of water to South Texas farmers and ranchers. In addition to securing more than $280 million in emergency assistance for Rio Grande Valley farmers and producers affected by the water shortage, he led a request earlier this year to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asking for renewed efforts to force Mexico to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty while also securing Secretary Rubio’s commitment to hold Mexico accountable for delays.

Last year, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to NADBank urging for the restoration of their Water Infrastructure Fund, raised alarms after a Rio Grande sugarcane mill closed due to acute water shortages, cosponsored a resolution supporting diplomacy, and sent a letter to then-U.S. Secretary of State Blinken urging the Department to engage on Mexico’s violation of the intent of the treaty. Senator Cornyn also led a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State and Foreign Operations urging them to withhold designated funds from Mexico until they enter into an agreement with the U.S. to balance the deficit of the water deliveries, which the House Appropriations Committee included in their funding bill. The Senator also introduced legislation in November to hold the Mexican government accountable for not meeting its water delivery requirements.

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’ ability to plan for and grow crops as well as ranchers’ ability to provide water to livestock.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-cortez-masto-colleagues-outbound-investment-measures-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Cortez Masto, Colleagues’ Outbound Investment Measures Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Dave McCormick (R-PA), and Michael Bennet (D-CO), along with Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) and Ranking Member Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), released the following statements after their outbound investment measures to safeguard the United States’ national security against threats posed by countries of concern like China, Russia, and Iran by prohibiting and requiring notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in such countries, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“The need to address capital flowing from the U.S. to countries of concern was realized during the first Trump administration, and my legislation presents a generational opportunity to confront the threats China, Iran, North Korea and others pose to our national and economic security,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This landmark legislation will prohibit and require notification of U.S. investments in certain technologies in countries of concern, ensuring American ingenuity, innovation, and investment do not end up in the hands of adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party to be weaponized against us. I am grateful to colleagues past and present for their contributions to this effort, and I appreciate President Trump signing it into law as part of the annual defense bill.”

“I’m glad to see this critical bill I worked on alongside Senator Cornyn to protect our national security signed into law,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “The future of our national security is reliant on making sure we remain ahead of our adversaries in the race to develop cutting-edge technologies like AI and semiconductors, and this law will help ensure that American investments do not go toward helping Communist China develop these technologies.”

“This legislation takes a strong step in providing the Trump administration with the tools it needs to protect our national economic security. As Americans, we benefit immensely from our free markets and open investment environment. But we must ensure that we are not fueling the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to undermine our military strength and national security,” said Senate Banking Committee Chairman Scott.

“This is an important step toward ensuring the United States remains the world’s leader in advanced technology. Our bipartisan bill will help ensure that we develop the most sensitive and cutting-edge technology here in America rather than supercharge its development in countries that do not share our values. I’ll keep fighting to protect our economic and national security from threats posed by China,” said Ranking Member Warren.

“Our military has long maintained a strong innovative and technological advantage over the Chinese Communist Party, but that advantage is eroded when American financial institutions invest in CCP-controlled companies developing technologies that could hand the future of warfare to America’s adversaries,” said Sen. Sullivan. “It is a shame Congress has to step in to instill some sense of patriotism into Wall Street, but our national security interests demand it. I applaud Senator Cornyn for leading this critically important legislation to make Americans safer at home and to maintain an arsenal of freedom that gives our men and women in uniform the edge they need to defend our interests around the world.”

“With the inclusion of Outbound provisions in the NDAA, the Senate has maintained its steadfast commitment to stopping the Chinese Communist Party’s development of advanced technology that threaten America’s national security. It is vital that we continue to prevent the harmful flow of U.S. investment into China for the development of technology like semiconductions, AI, and quantum computing,” said Democrat Leader Schumer. “I am proud to have championed this legislation that will help to protect our national security and ensure that the United States maintains a competitive edge in the critical technologies our military relies on.”

“American capital shouldn’t subsidize the growth of Communist China’s military and surveillance state,” said Sen. Ricketts. “The FIGHT China Act will address national security threats. It will protect American capital, intellectual property, and innovation from supporting Communist China’s malign ambitions.”

“Passing the FIGHT China Act into law will give us a critical leg up against competitors in the development of cutting-edge technologies and will help us better protect our nation’s security,” said Sen. Kim. “The successful bipartisan effort speaks to how vital it is that we ensure Americans’ investments do not bolster our competitors’ ability to threaten us.”

“China’s growing influence in emerging technologies poses a serious threat to our national and economic security,” said Sen. McCormick. “I’m pleased to see this commonsense legislation included in the NDAA and headed to the President’s desk. It will help prevent U.S. investment from supporting the Chinese Communist Party’s military modernization in artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.”

“As China backs Russia’s war against Ukraine, hacks U.S. infrastructure, and threatens our allies and partners across the Indo-Pacific, we must prevent U.S. investments from fueling China’s development of advanced technologies with potential military uses,” said Sen. Bennet. “This important legislation will protect U.S. national security by screening and blocking these investments. I’m glad to see it become law.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and John Fetterman (D-PA).

Background:

Building on Sen. Cornyn’s previous efforts to increase transparency and prohibit investments by American entities in sensitive technologies in China, and in conjunction with the Trump administration’s America First Investment Policy, the outbound investment measures included in the conferenced National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to require notification of or prohibit U.S. investments in certain technologies in countries of concern, including:

The People’s Republic of China (PRC);

Cuba;

Iran;

North Korea;

Russia;

And the Maduro Regime.

Notifiable technology includes semiconductor technology and microelectronics, artificial intelligence (AI) systems, quantum information technologies, high-performance computing, and supercomputing hypersonic systems. Prohibited technology includes advanced semiconductor technology and microelectronics, artificial intelligence systems, quantum information technologies, high-performance computing and supercomputing hypersonic systems.

Lastly, the legislation would permit the Secretary of the Treasury to impose sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) against PRC entities that engage with the PRC military and intelligence sectors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-kelly-bill-to-boost-military-service-recruiting-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Kelly Bill to Boost Military Service Recruiting Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 Mark Kelly (D-AZ) released the following statements after their bill to promote U.S. military recruiter access to secondary schools and attract the next generation of service members was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026:

“As the global threat landscape evolves and grows more complex, it’s vital that we attract, develop, and retain top talent to boost military readiness,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By expanding U.S. military recruiters’ access to high schools, we can enlist the next generation of advanced warfighters to serve under the bold leadership of President Trump and defend America’s interests at home and abroad.”

“When I was young, the U.S. Navy gave me purpose, direction, and the chance to be part of something much larger than myself. Our country needs more young people willing to step up, challenge themselves, and take advantage of these opportunities that come from military service,” said Sen. Kelly. “We’re making sure recruiters have fair access to schools so students who want to serve their country can get accurate information and a real path to do it.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn championed these provisions in the NDAA FY26 to ensure U.S. military service recruiters have the same access to high schools as colleges and prospective employers, so students can fully understand the benefits of military service and pursue it as a viable path after graduation. A recent CRS report analyzed military recruitment and goals for bringing new personnel into the Armed Forces to ensure our nation has a trained, robust, and fully manned military workforce.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-whitehouse-colleagues-bill-to-equip-law-enforcement-with-trauma-kits-signed-into-law/,"Cornyn, Whitehouse, Colleagues’ Bill to Equip Law Enforcement with Trauma Kits Signed into Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statements after their Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act, which will equip law enforcement officers with quality trauma kits so they can respond immediately if a civilian or fellow officer experiences a traumatic injury during a call, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

“When responding to medical emergencies, time and access to the right tools can mean the difference between life and death,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will equip law enforcement officers with high-quality trauma kits to prevent deaths due to blood loss and give patients the best chance of survival.”

“Police officers serve on the frontlines in their communities every day, and they are often first on the scene in medical emergencies,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “Our bipartisan law will provide officers in the field with emergency trauma kits, and fund standardized training to allow them to better protect the public and save lives.”

“As a strong supporter of our brave men and women in law enforcement, I am proud to co-introduce the Improving Police CARE Act which would equip them with the tools they need to keep our communities safe,” said Sen. Tillis. “Ensuring law enforcement officers have effective trauma kits will save countless law enforcement and civilian lives.”

“All Americans are better off when law enforcement officers have the resources they need to do their jobs when emergencies strike,” said Sen. Coons. “As co-chair of the Senate Law Enforcement Caucus, I’m proud that this bipartisan, commonsense legislation will become law and more police officers will have the trauma kits they need to save lives.”

“It is imperative that law enforcement officers have the resources and training they need to save lives,” said Sen. Durbin. “Blood loss injuries are too often deadly, especially in rural areas where it can take longer for patients to receive emergency medical care. Now that the bill is signed into law, the bipartisan Improving Police CARE Act will establish standards for trauma kits used by law enforcement, ensuring that our officers have the right tools to respond to injuries immediately and continue to serve our communities.”

U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) are cosponsors of the legislation.

Background:

Trauma kits play a vital role in preventing deaths due to blood loss. Between 30-40% of trauma-related deaths are caused by hemorrhaging, or uncontrolled bleeding, with 33-56% of them occurring before the patient arrives at the hospital. During the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, tourniquets and tourniquet training were widely adopted by the military for their lifesaving potential in combat. This practice has since been embraced in civilian populations given its clear survival benefit. In fact, one study found that patient survival was six times more likely when a tourniquet was used, underscoring the critical need for timely bleeding control. This is especially true in rural areas where the average EMS response time is typically double that in urban areas. Having access to a trauma kit and early bleeding control can help bridge this gap and mean the difference between life and death.

The effectiveness of a law enforcement trauma kit program depends in part on the contents and the quality of the kits. Medical professionals recommend that a kit include bleeding control supplies like tourniquets, bandages, non-latex gloves, scissors, and instructions. However, there is enormous variation in the products available on the market.

The Improving Police Critical Aid for Responding to Emergencies (CARE) Act will:

Establish baseline standards in consultation with law enforcement and medical professionals for trauma kits purchased using grant funding under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG);

And require the development of optional best practices that law enforcement agencies can adapt for training law enforcement officers to use trauma kits and for deployment and maintenance of the kits in vehicles and government facilities.

The law is endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA), National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the Society of Trauma Nurses, the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and the American Trauma Society.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/pres-trump-signs-cornyn-bill-to-advance-defense-innovation-artificial-intelligence-into-law/,Pres. Trump Signs Cornyn Bill to Advance Defense Innovation & Artificial Intelligence into Law,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 his Growing University AI for Defense (GUARD) Act, which will codify a portion of President Trump’s AI Action Plan and enable the Department of War (DoW) to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute to advance defense innovation, workforce development, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness, was signed into law by President Trump as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Our Senior Military Colleges already excel at preparing the next generation in warfighting capabilities, and now is the time to build on that success by answering President Trump’s call to create a hub for AI research, development, and talent acquisition at one of these prestigious institutions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law will empower the Department of War to establish and lead a cutting-edge AI Institute so we can streamline integration of emerging technologies in our defense sector and maintain America’s decision-making advantage over foreign adversaries.”

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is a cosponsor of this legislation, and Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) led companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Background:

Under the first Trump administration, Congress passed the National AI Initiative, which authorized $500 million to develop new AI institutes. Building on these efforts, President Trump released an AI Action Plan in 2025 that included a renewed focus on developing AI talent for the Department of War (DoW), specifically calling to “Grow our Senior Military Colleges into hubs of AI research, development, and talent building, teaching core AI skills and literacy to future generations. Foster AI-specific curriculum, including in AI use, development, and infrastructure management, in the Senior Military Colleges throughout majors.”

Sen. Cornyn’s legislation codifies this provision in President Trump’s AI Action Plan by enabling the DoW to establish and lead a National Security and Defense AI Institute at a Senior Military College (SMC) in the United States.

The new AI Institute will bridge academic and government industry divides to streamline integration of advanced technologies for defense systems and intelligence services responses. Specifically, the National Security AI Institute will host testbeds for defense-related AI data management, reliable AI, and AI readiness that give the United States an enduring decision-making advantage. Senior Military Colleges play a central role in developing a skilled workforce capable of implementing these emerging technologies to strengthen national security and defense capabilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cramer-highlights-fair-access-to-banking-at-senate-banking-committee-hearing,Cramer Highlights Fair Access to Banking at Senate Banking Committee Hearing,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for video. Click here for audio***

BISMARCK, N.D. – As part of its commitment to improve economic opportunity and rebuild the economy, the U.S. Senate held a hearing on fair access to banking. During the hearing, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) highlighted his Fair Access to Banking Act, a response to the practice commonly referred to as debanking, in which banks discriminate against law-abiding industries and groups by refusing to provide financial services to them.

In preparation for the hearing, Cramer submitted a recent report on debanking released by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency last week. The report details debanking activities practiced by some of the largest banks in America.

Cramer began his questioning by asking Dean of the University of Wyoming College of Law Julie Hill, a banking and commercial law expert, about her earlier testimony regarding reputational risk, which is sometimes created by rumors and exploited by regulators, creating uncertainty.

“As bad as bad regulation is, bad regulators are worse, and as bad as regulators are, uncertainty is even harder,” said Cramer. “And the reality is that reputation comes from rumors and rumors of rumors as much as it does from bad regulation. If we don't put some guardrails on the debanking side, we leave decisions up to a variety of views, political views and otherwise, both in the industry and with the regulators.”

Hill described her research, explaining how in a study on reputation risk, it was almost always ancillary to other risky or illegal actions.

“So they find a bank that engaged in money laundering, and they say, ‘You shouldn't have engaged in money laundering, because it's illegal, and it causes reputation risk,’ or they find a bank that opened unauthorized accounts, and they say, ‘You shouldn't open unauthorized accounts, because it's illegal, and it causes reputation risk,’” said Hill. “In those instances, reputation risk isn't really doing anything. We might 100% agree that it exists, but regulators don't need that tool to stop that illegal behavior or that risky behavior.”

Hill continued, “Reputation risk becomes troublesome when it acts all on its own. So when it's just reputation risk, when you can't point to a violation of the law or increased financial risk, that's when regulators can use it just to punish people for political reasons. And in that case, it's not doing anything to make the financial industry safer. It's just politicizing the regulators, and that's what's wrong.”

Cramer also asked about the mixed signals sent by regulators because of a lack of guardrails. “Some people would submit to you that the regulators are sort of a useful excuse for bankers to do what they want anyway. And I might ask each of you, if you think there's some truth to that, because we're seeing bankers who, on one hand, especially large banks, have said, ‘we're never going to do that.’ And then, there's a change in the administration. They say, ‘we didn't really say that.’ And then, of course, they wait later, and then they go with political winds. Do you think it's the banks as much as regulators?”

Hill explained how the secrecy surrounding financial supervision as making “it very easy for both the regulators and the banks to point at the other and cast blame, and we never really know who's telling the truth.”

Cramer referred to his Fair Access to Banking Act, which would eliminate the ability of banks to use ambiguous terms such as reputational risk to discriminate against customers and penalize banks for denying services based on anything other than empirical data consistent with the banks’ established, impartial risk-management standards. He asked witnesses for their perspective on whether “a penalty, or enforcement mechanism help hold those banks accountable […] and provide for better guidance? […] Does prohibiting debanking imply a mandate to bank?”

Kathleen Sgamma, a Principal at Multiple-Use Advocacy which represents the oil and gas sector, responded by stressing the importance of regulators refraining from encouraging debanking “the biggest issue over the last five years from my industry has been making sure the regulators can’t use all these levers. To me, that's the really important part.”

Dean Hill concluded by explaining “banks benefit from government supervision and government insurance, which they pay for. So at least in theory, you should be pricing that into your bank model. But the truth of the matter is that there are customers, which it is just difficult to profitably bank. That can be people who overdraw their account or bad credit risks, or it could be marijuana businesses, where the compliance burden is just so high that when you price that into the cost of the account, it becomes prohibitive. I think that there is something of a line between de-banking and being forced to bank, but you've got to be careful about it, because...it will be very difficult, for a bank, to bank some customers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases/us-army-corps-of-engineers-releases-final-environmental-review-for-dapl,U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Releases Final Environmental Review for DAPL,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,Kevin Cramer,C001096,www.cramer.senate.gov,cramer,https://www.cramer.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"***Click here for video. Click here for audio***

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued its final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Dakota Access Pipeline. After months of illegal protests and costly bureaucratic delays, Judge James Boasberg issued a highly partisan ruling in March 2020 requiring the EIS.

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, released a statement following its publication:

“This announcement of the Dakota Access Pipeline’s final Environmental Impact Statement has been nearly a decade in the making, for one EIS over a couple hundred yards. The Dakota Access Pipeline has already been safely operating for over eight years, which we all know in North Dakota. It moves millions of barrels of oil every single week, which just proves that an EIS is nothing more than a very expensive formality.”

“The opposition and delay from within the Obama and Biden administrations was never about the environment or public safety, frankly everyone knows that pipelines are the safest and most environmentally friendly way to move product. But it was kowtowing to a fringe of activists and serial litigants who have as their goal nothing more than killing fossil fuels. Requiring the EIS was pure regulatory abuse, in my view, but it does confirm what we already knew: the Dakota Access Pipeline is operating safely, and it gets Bakken crude to market cleaner, safer, and quicker than any other mode of transportation. Finalizing the EIS and finally granting the easement puts this waste of time in the rearview mirror, thank goodness, so we can finally focus on what really matters: American energy dominance.”

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies to assess the environmental effects of major federal actions, in this case an easement covering 0.21 miles of federal land under Lake Oahe. During the Obama administration, on July 25, 2016, the USACE published a final Environmental Assessment (EA) and a Mitigated Finding of No Significant Impact for the DAPL crossing of Lake Oahe. Litigation was filed against the USACE on this determination. The Obama administration allowed thousands of protesters to illegally reside on USACE land causing serious public safety issues and environmental damage, including 9.8 million pounds of garbage and hazardous materials cleanup at taxpayer expense. After President Donald Trump took office, the USACE granted the easement on Feb. 8, 2017, allowing construction to be completed. Judge Boasberg ordered a remanded EA on June 14, 2017, which was completed in Aug. 2018, but rejected by the court on March 25, 2020. The court then ordered a full EIS.

The DAPL has safely delivered crude oil since becoming operational on June 1, 2017. Nevertheless, several federal court decisions have directed further analysis under NEPA. This is the third NEPA analysis covering the roughly 1,000-foot reservoir crossing provided by the USACE in over nine years. The Record of Decision is expected 30 days after after EIS publication in the Federal Register.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/crapo-backs-bill-to-bolster-aviation-safety,Crapo Backs Bill to Bolster Aviation Safety,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 for Idaho Mike Crapo joined Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), John Boozman (R-Arkansas) and Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) in support of the Spending Aviation Fees for Equipment, Guaranteeing Upgraded and Advanced Risk Detection and Safety (SAFEGUARDS) Act. The bill Senator Crapo co-sponsored would make certain the revenue collected through the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee (PSF) is invested in bolstering aviation and airport security.

“Passenger security fees should be used as intended—to fund aviation security activities,” said Crapo. “Years of diverting these funds have hampered TSA’s ability to implement modernized screening technologies, particularly at checkpoints with high passenger volumes.”

Airline passengers currently pay a fee of $5.60 per each one-way ticket, intended to fund aviation security. Since 2014, more than $13 billion of the collected fees have been diverted to non-security uses, and this legislation would end that diversion and invest these fees back into airport security.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens millions of passengers and their luggage daily, providing services at 2,400 security lanes at the nation's 420 airports.

The SAFEGUARDS Act would:

Allocate $500 million in PSF revenue annually for checked bag explosive detection systems (EDS); and

Set aside $250 million annually for checkpoint technology improvements, including at exit lanes.

TSA has screening checkpoints at all six of Idaho’s major commercial airports, including Boise Airport (BOI), Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA), Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN), Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH), Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport (LWS) and Magic Valley Regional Airport (TWF).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-joins-dave-ramsey-to-discuss-timeshare-transparency-act,CURTIS JOINS DAVE RAMSEY TO DISCUSS TIMESHARE TRANSPARENCY ACT,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Click here or the image above to watch the interview

During the interview, the two highlighted years of consumer complaints and financial data showing the vast majority of timeshare buyers regret their purchases but are locked into long-term contracts with escalating fees and little to no ability to exit. Ramsey concluded the interview calling on his listeners to urge their Representatives and Senators to support the TTA.

Curtis on the TTA:

It’s pretty simple: first, you should know what you’re buying—there should be transparency; second, you should know if there’s going to be radical changes to what you’ve bought; and third, you should be able to change your mind within an agreed upon period of time. And then, let’s face it, if 85% of the people regret getting into it, there needs to be some way for them to get out of it.

On the 14-day penalty-free cancellation period:

Ramsey: From my understanding, a 14-day penalty free cancelation period will cut their sales by 70%—you’ll probably put them out of business.

Curtis: If any business is dependent upon getting people to do something they don’t want to do, then they perhaps should go out of business. Now, my goal is not to put them out of business, my goal is just to make it so people can trust what they’re getting into.

. . .

Many of the people that get into these are seniors—they’re away from their normal support structure when they get into these very, very high-pressure sales techniques, then they maybe make a bad decision, and then they don’t have a window to change that decision. That’s just wrong.

On the timeshare re-sale market:

Ramsey: There’s no backing out, and there’s no way to sell the stupid thing, because nobody wants to buy them. There are hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of them for sale on eBay for $1

Curtis: Yes, and the reason is, they now come with the liability of these monthly or annually fees that are so exorbitant, far greater than any amount of money that you could spend to have a really great vacation—that’s why they’re worthless.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2025/12/19/daines-urges-airlines-to-increase-flights-from-montana-for-fcs-championship-game/,Daines Urges Airlines to Increase Flights from Montana for FCS Championship Game,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MT,Steve Daines,D000618,www.daines.senate.gov,daines,https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Presses Airlines to Give Montana Fans “A Chance to Witness History”

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Steve Daines today led a letter with Senator Tim Sheehy and Representatives Ryan Zinke (MT-01) and Troy Downing (MT-02) to airline CEOs urging them to increase flight options from Montana to Nashville, Tennessee, in advance of the FCS National Championship Game. The letter was sent to the CEOs of Delta, American, Southwest, and United.

“History will be made this Saturday in Bozeman, Montana. For the first time, the University of Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State University Bobcats football teams will meet in the postseason with the winner earning themselves a spot in the NCAA Division I Football Championship in Nashville, Tennessee on January 5, 2026…

“…though the game has yet to be played, we do know a Montana school will be heading to Nashville for the championship game regardless of the outcome. And although Montana will be a state divided this weekend, both Cats and Griz fans can agree that there’s nothing like watching and cheering on your team in-person. Unfortunately, current air service options to Nashville from Montana in the days leading up to the game are limited and liable to sell out quickly. That is why we are asking that your airlines work to increase service to and from Montana for the big game.

“By increasing access to affordable air service, you will be giving Montana fans of all ages the chance to witness history. As proud Montanans, we hope all fans will be able to take part in this special moment with their team.

“Thank you for your consideration and may the best team win!” they wrote in the letter.

Read the full letterHERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.daines.senate.gov/2025/12/19/dainescalls-on-doj-to-defend-2a-rights-stand-with-lawful-gun-owners/,"DainesCalls on DOJ to Defend 2A Rights, Stand with Lawful Gun Owners",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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 joined Representative Andrew Clyde (GA-09) in leading a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice urging them to adopt the positions of the drafters of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act provision that eliminated the $200 National Firearms Act (NFA) excise tax on suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs) and “any other weapons” (AOWs) and end its support for the unconstitutional NFA registration regime that remains.

“We write to inform the Department of Justice of Congress’s position and intent regarding ongoing litigation challenging the National Firearms Act’s (NFA) registration and transfer requirements for non-taxed NFA firearms, following the enactment of President Trump’s landmark Second Amendment victory in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). In enacting this bill into law, Congress affirmed its position that the taxation and registration provisions of the National Firearms Act are inseparably linked, and it expressed its intent to repeal the NFA’s registration and transfer requirements by eliminating the associated taxes on certain firearms and silencers. In light of the Department’s recent filing opposing this interpretation, we must express our serious concern and disappointment that the Department of Justice has chosen to advance a theory that not only conflicts with Congress’s express intent but also disregards the constitutional structure upon which the NFA has rested since 1934. Therefore, we again urge the Department of Justice to adopt and advance Congress’s stated position in all litigation concerning these provisions, to ensure that congressional intent is accurately represented and upheld before the courts.”

“In fact, when Congress reduced the Obamacare penalty to $0 during President Trump’s first term, the Department of Justice refused to defend the underlying flawed law. The Department is fully empowered to decline to defend statutory provisions that no longer rest on a valid constitutional basis. It has exercised that authority before, and it must do so again here – this time in defense of Americans’ Second Amendment rights.”

…

Read the full letter HERE.

Thanks to Senator Daines’ efforts in the Senate, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act contained a provision that reduced the $200 excise tax on suppressors, SBRs, SBS, and AOWs for the first time ever. By eliminating the NFA tax on certain firearms, it was the intent of those who worked to include the provision to repeal the transfer and registration requirements under the NFA for these firearms as well. Despite this intent, the DOJ has chosen to defend the constitutionality of the zero-dollar tax in court.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=FFB95124-F789-4360-8B8E-249CA251CBF6,Fischer Leads Nebraska Delegation in Support of America’s First Transcontinental Railroad,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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-NE) led the entire Nebraska congressional delegation in a letter to the Surface Transportation Board, urging approval of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern in order to create the nation’s first transcontinental railroad.

In the letter, the lawmakers underscore the merger’s widespread support among labor unions and rail customers across key industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy. Due to Nebraska’s central location, the state serves as a vital freight-rail corridor and ranks among the top five in the nation for freight-rail employment. Since 1862, Union Pacific has been headquartered in Omaha and currently employs more than 5,000 individuals across the state, contributing millions of dollars to Nebraska’s economy each year.

Full text of the letter is here and below.

Dear Chairman Fuchs, Vice Chair Schultz, and Member Hedlund:

We write in support of the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. We trust that, after a thorough review, the Board will approve this merger, bringing about the nation’s first transcontinental railroad.

As the Board conducts its review, we believe the benefits associated with the new transcontinental railroad will demonstrate that this merger will enhance competition and provide value to the public. The reduced interchange delays will result in decreased transit times and increased service reliability. The new routes and expanded intermodal service also provide significant new opportunities for shippers. Furthermore, the limited overlap in existing networks of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern results in only a handful of shippers seeing service decreased from two freight rail carriers to one, and we trust Union Pacific will take the necessary action to ensure continued competition for their service. We are also encouraged by Union Pacific’s commitment to maintain gateway access and address associated gateway pricing.

Notably, the proposed merger has received the early support of multiple labor unions, including SMART Transportation Division (SMART-TD), the largest union in the country. Additionally, rail customers across key industries — including agriculture, manufacturing, and energy — have voiced their support, citing improved market access, greater operational flexibility, and faster, more reliable service.

We support the merger of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern and look forward to the opportunities generated by our nation’s first truly transcontinental railroad. As you complete your review, we are confident you will find that the proposed merger serves the public interest and strengthens competition nationwide. Thank you all for your attention to this letter and for your service at the Surface Transportation Board.

Permalink: https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/fischer-leads-nebraska-delegation-in-support-of-america-s-first-transcontinental-railroad",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/more-medical-residency-positions-headed-to-iowa-thanks-to-grassley-law,More Medical Residency Positions Headed to Iowa Thanks to Grassley Law,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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) announced Iowa Methodist Medical Center (UnityPoint) will receive additional Medicare funds to cover added graduate medical education (GME) residency positions in emergency medicine. The positions are a result of a 2020 law Grassley championed as then-Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee to support Iowa’s growing health care workforce needs.

This is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) fourth round of residency funding. Iowa has been awarded federal funding for over 14 permanent additional GME residency positions so far.

“During my 99 county meetings, I hear from patients and health care professionals who tell me our medical workforce needs more support. We especially need more emergency room doctors in rural communities, so today’s announcement is welcome news. I’m gratified to see my efforts are continuing to support Iowans seeking medical care,” Grassley said.

“The additional Medicare-funded residency slots help address critical physician shortages here in Iowa and helps ensure Iowans continue to have access to high quality health care in their local community. Our programs consistently produce physicians and surgeons that remain in Iowa to serve Iowans. We appreciate Senator Grassley’s continued work on this issue,” said Dr. William J. Yost, Chief Academic Officer and Vice President of Medical Education and Research at Iowa Methodist Medical Center.

Below is an overview of GME residency positions CMS has awarded to Iowa hospitals:

Background:

While chairing the Senate Finance Committee, Grassley worked in 2020 to add 1,000 additional Medicare-funded GME residency positions nationwide to strengthen America’s health care workforce – particularly in rural and underserved communities. This was the largest increase in Medicare-funded residency positions in over 25 years.

Following further Grassley oversight, CMS confirmed it intends to meet the 10% rural hospital distribution threshold in the overall distribution of 1,000 residency positions. Grassley highlighted the importance of distributing medical residency positions to rural areas during a May 2024 Finance Committee hearing, in a March 2025 Finance Committee nomination hearing and on the Senate floor in May 2025.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/qanda-national-defense-matters,Q&A: National Defense Matters,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Q: Why is the national defense bill an annual priority?

A: National security is the number one responsibility of the federal government. For 65 years in a row, Congress has passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that shapes defense policies, from nuclear weapons to cybersecurity, drones, troop pay and military construction. As customary, the House and Senate Armed Services Committees conducted a series of hearings throughout the year to dig into the details of the massive legislative package that forms the blueprint for America’s national defense. The $900 billion, 3,086-page bipartisan bill outlines defense priorities for the coming fiscal year to ramp up military readiness and beef up support for our nation’s men and women in uniform, including a 3.8% pay raise, better housing, child care and health benefits. For example, the defense bill on its way to the president’s desk paves the way for improved access to specialty care for service members by lowering the mileage for travel reimbursement for medical appointments from 100 to 75 miles. It allows members of the National Guard and reserves called up to active duty to enroll their children in Defense Department schools and bumps up the family separation allowance for deployed service members. These improvements signal to members of the Armed Forces that Uncle Sam stands shoulder to shoulder with our troops for the service and sacrifice they make for freedom and liberty.

On December 13, 2026, two Iowans made the ultimate sacrifice while serving overseas in Syria. Sergeant William N. “Nate” Howard of Marshalltown and Sergeant Edgar B. Torres-Tovar of Des Moines were members of the Iowa National Guard Second Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. I attended the dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base to pay tribute to these fallen heroes on their solemn homecoming in flag-draped cases and introduced a Senate resolution with Sen. Joni Ernst honoring their service and sacrifice. The ambush attack also killed a civilian interpreter and injured three service members from the Iowa National Guard. The terrorist attack is a stark reminder of the courage, patriotism and sacrifice these fallen heroes gave to their country and affirms why it’s imperative to ensure the full measure of the federal government supports the needs of our troops. That’s why I work every year to strengthen the annual defense authorization bill, including my efforts to protect defense dollars from waste, fraud and abuse. Every dollar lost to fraud is one less dollar for military readiness and our troops.

Q: What measures did you work to secure in the defense bill before final passage?

A: I pushed successfully for authorizing funds for Iowa’s military installations, including $220 million for projects at the 185th Air Refueling Wing at the Sioux Gateway Airport in Sioux City and $13.8 million for the vehicle maintenance shop at the Waterloo Armory. As a longtime advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal, I also supported bipartisan measures to beef up its minimum workload and encourage a public-private partnership to help ensure the nation’s domestic arsenals stand ready long term to supply our nation’s munitions needs. In addition, I worked with Sen. Dick Durbin to enhance and strengthen U.S. security cooperation with the Baltic States. Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine calls for a united front to deter Vladimir Putin’s aggression to resurrect the Soviet empire.

As chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I held two hearings this year to examine the threat drones pose to public safety, from smuggling weapons and drugs across our borders to spying on sensitive facilities or committing acts of terror in a crowded stadium or other public space. My bipartisan bill called the SAFER SKIES Act was included in the defense bill and expands the authority of state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement entities, as well as correctional agencies, to use counter-unmanned aircraft system technologies to stop malicious drone activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/senate-republicans-confirm-14-law-and-order-nominees-to-deliver-safer-streets-for-americans,Senate Republicans Confirm 14 Law and Order Nominees to Deliver Safer Streets for Americans,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IA,Chuck Grassley,G000386,www.grassley.senate.gov,grassley,https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) applauded the Senate’s confirmation of 13 U.S. Attorneys and the Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Criminal Division. The nominees were confirmed last night as part of a nominations package of 97 executive nominees, by a vote of 53-43.

Under Grassley’s leadership, the Senate this year confirmed 31 of President Trump’s U.S. Attorneys, which is the same number of U.S. Attorneys confirmed during the first year of the Biden administration. Four of the 31 confirmed U.S. Attorneys received blue slips from Democrat senators.

“U.S. Attorneys are an essential component of law enforcement – responsible for prosecuting violent criminals, protecting the public and enforcing the rule of law. Yesterday, Senate Republicans successfully voted to confirm these critical law enforcement officers to protect communities across the country. The bulk of Senate Democrats who voted ‘no’ yet again proved their disdain for the safety and wellbeing of Americans. As Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I’ll continue working in the new year to successfully and efficiently advance and confirm President Trump’s nominees,” Grassley said.

The nominees confirmed last night include:

Andrew Duva, to be Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division;

Erin Creegan, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of New Hampshire;

Jerome Francis Gorgon, Jr., to be U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan;

David Courcelle, to be U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana;

Braden Boucek, to be U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee;

Domonick Gerace II, to be U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio;

Bryan Stirling, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina;

Thomas Wheeler II, to be U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana;

Adam Mildred, to be U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana;

Thomas Albus, to be U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri;

Thomas Ferguson III, to be U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina;

Ryan Antony Kriegshauser, to be U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas;

James Kruger, to be U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi; and

Scott Leary, to be U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi.

Background:

Historically, U.S. Attorneys were routinely confirmed on a bipartisan basis due to their non-political and non-controversial nature. That bipartisan tradition was destroyed this year when Senate Democrats placed indefinite, blanket holds on all of President Trump’s 93 U.S. attorneys. Senate Republicans overcame the partisan blockade in October, confirming 18 U.S. Attorneys as part of the first nominations package of 107 executive nominees.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-army-corps-issues-final-eis-for-dapl-recommending-pipeline-maintain-operation-and-easement-be-reinstated,"Hoeven: Army Corps Issues Final EIS for DAPL, Recommending Pipeline Maintain Operation & Easement Be Reinstated",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,ND,John Hoeven,H001061,www.hoeven.senate.gov,hoeven,https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases,scraper,"Hoeven: Army Corps Issues Final EIS for DAPL, Recommending Pipeline Maintain Operation & Easement Be Reinstated

Senator Worked to Advance EIS, Sets Stage for Final Approval in Q1 2026

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released the final environmental impact statement (EIS) for the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). Hoeven spoke with Assistant Secretary of the Army Adam Telle this morning about the EIS, which recommends that:

The pipeline operations are maintained.

The easement to cross Lake Oahe be reinstated.

Hoeven has been working to move the EIS process forward, having repeatedly discussed this issue with Army Corps officials. Today’s recommendations align with the priorities Hoeven has advanced with the Corps and will provide certainty for energy production in North Dakota and the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara (MHA) Nation.

The Record of Decision for the pipeline, which is the final approval under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, may be issued 30 days after the EIS is published in the Federal Register and is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2026.

“The Dakota Access Pipeline has been operating safely for more than eight years, moving more than a half a million barrels a day of light, sweet crude from North Dakota’s oil patch,” said Hoeven. “That’s energy we don’t need to import from our adversaries, and this is the proven, safest method for moving the oil we need to market. That’s why we’ve stayed on the Corps throughout this process to ensure they reach the right decision for our economic and national security. Today’s EIS sets up the final approval for DAPL in Q1 2026 and provides needed certainty for the continued operation of this critical infrastructure.”

-###-",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=3613699E-B324-42B4-B51A-5EC91ADDED38,Sen. Moran Applauds Confirmation of Ryan Kriegshauser as U.S. Attorney for Kansas,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,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. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement applauding the Senate’s confirmation of Ryan Kriegshauser to be the United States Attorney for the District of Kansas:

“Congratulations to Ryan Kriegshauser on his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as United States Attorney for Kansas. Throughout his career, Ryan has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, the rule of law and the pursuit of justice. He cares deeply about the safety and well-being of Kansans. As a former intern for me, I know him to be someone with the character and integrity needed to carry out the duties of this role. I look forward to working with him to support law enforcement and keep our communities safe. I am grateful for Ryan’s willingness to serve our state and country and wish him every success in this role.”

Mr. Kriegshauser has served as interim U.S. Attorney for Kansas since Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed him in July. When his initial 120-day appointment expired, Chief U.S. District Court Judge John Broomes, on behalf of the Court, appointed Mr. Kriegshauser to serve in the position indefinitely while his nomination was pending before the Senate.

Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kriegshauser worked in private practice after serving in the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office as Deputy Secretary of State of the Office of Legal Counsel and Policy, and prior to that, as General Counsel in the Office of the Kansas Securities Commissioner. Mr. Kriegshauser holds a bachelor's degree from Georgetown University and law degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. A Navy veteran of Afghanistan, he currently serves as an officer in the Navy Reserve.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.moreno.senate.gov/press-releases/moreno-secures-key-u-s-attorney-confirmations,Moreno Secures Key U.S. Attorney Confirmations,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,OH,Bernie Moreno,M001242,www.moreno.senate.gov,moreno,https://www.moreno.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) released the following statement after Dominick Gerace II was confirmed as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio. In October, Senator Moreno secured the confirmation of David Toepfer as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.

“Both David and Dominick have dedicated their careers to defending the rule of law and prosecuting criminals, and I’m confident they will work tirelessly to keep communities in the Northern and Southern Districts safe,” said Senator Moreno. “I’m proud to have secured confirmations for these key roles in my first year in office.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2025/12/sen-rick-scott-urges-dow-sec-hegseth-to-add-alibaba-and-other-chinese-communist-party-linked-companies-to-1260h-list,Sen. Rick Scott Urges DoW Sec. Hegseth to Add Alibaba and Other Chinese Communist Party-Linked Companies to 1260H List,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,FL,Rick Scott,S001217,www.rickscott.senate.gov,rickscott,https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/press-releases/,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Senator Rick Scott sent a letter to Department of War (DoW) Secretary Pete Hegseth thanking him for his work with President Trump to put a stop to Communist China’s continuous attempts to undermine critical U.S. national security infrastructure and collect the personal data of American citizens. In his letter, Senator Scott asked that the secretary continue these great efforts with the immediate addition of Communist China-based Alibaba Group Holding Limited and seven other Chinese companies with clear ties to the Chinese government and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army to the DoW’s 1260H list to make clear the United States will not support adversarial regimes.

Read the letter HERE or below:

Dear Secretary Hegseth:

I am writing to thank you and President Trump for your unparalleled commitment to the safety and security of the American people, especially regarding recent reports that Alibaba Group Holding Limited (BABA), Baidu Inc, BYD Co, and five other Chinese-based companies deserve inclusion on the Department of War (DoW)’s 1260H list of Chinese military companies. I support the Department of War’s conclusion.

As Salt Typhoon and the recent F5 hack have shown us, Communist China will stop at nothing and leave no tool untouched to undermine our critical infrastructure. In 2017, officials from China’s top internet regulator broadcast their goal to enhance the “global influence of internet companies like Alibaba, Tencent, Baidu [and] Huawei’ and ‘to push China’s proposition of internet governance toward becoming an international consensus’.” Beyond this, there is ample public evidence that these companies collude with and are connected to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), both directly and through China’s civil-military fusion programs, and require immediate inclusion on the 1260H list.

Just last month, the Financial Times reported that a White House national security memo included intelligence on how Alibaba provides the PLA with capabilities that weaken our national security. Specifically, the memo referenced that Alibaba provided Xi and his military with sensitive customer data, including IP addresses, Wi-Fi information and payment records, AI-related services, and so-called “zero-day” software vulnerabilities. These descriptions alone appear to meet the statutory definition of a Chinese Military Company required for list inclusion, particularly as an entity engaged in “providing commercial services, manufacturing, producing, or exporting.”

Additionally, Communist China’s civil-military fusion program requires companies to share technology with the PLA, and Alibaba’s alleged affiliation with the PLA highlights the extent of China’s military-civil fusion project – including its use of e-commerce companies to gather personal data of American citizens.

Baidu’s ties to Xi, the CCP, and the PLA are similarly alarming. In 2017, Baidu instituted internal Communist Party committees as part of broader corporate governance and “party-building.” Earlier this year, members of Congress sent a letter to Securities and Exchange Chairman Paul Atkins warning that “Baidu Maps is embedded into the Integrated Joint Operations Platform used to surveil Uyghurs in Xinjiang…[Baidu has also] procured high-performance computing systems from Sugon, a Chinese military company sanctioned by the United States for aiding China’s nuclear weapons program. Baidu was also selected to lead China’s AI national laboratory eight years ago, and has a quantum research center with military-linked institutions. This PLA connection is especially concerning, given Baidu’s artificial intelligence and advanced technology products with dual-use capabilities.

The DoW’s assessment of BYD Co. as a Chinese military company is also well-founded. The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act already prevents the DoW from purchasing batteries from BYD beginning October 1, 2027 because of this connection. A 2019 report also indicates that BYD plays a significant role in China’s military-civil fusion strategy and helps send advanced foreign technology back to Communist China, citing its cooperation with a PLA-linked weapons base, its research activities in military-civil fusion zones, national recognition for military-related collaboration, and close technological ties with Huawei. Similar claims have been made in Congressional hearings as well.

In May, the House Homeland Security Committee sent a letter to BYD North America and its U.S. brand, RIDE Mobility, asking for additional information on its corporate structure and whether BYD had ever been asked to comply with Communist China’s National Intelligence Law, Data Security Law, or Cybersecurity Law, which would require the company to share sensitive personal data of millions of Americans with the CCP and PLA. Given the wide-ranging implications these laws could have on Americans’ data and our national security, the DoW is absolutely correct to investigate and affirmatively conclude that BYD’s inclusion on the 1260H list is warranted.

There is extensive, publicly available evidence that raises serious concerns regarding Alibaba, Baidu, BYD, and the five other reported PRC-based companies and their affiliations with the Chinese military. It is essential to our nation’s security and the safety of American families that you add these companies to the Section 1260H list during your latest annual update, and that we keep these companies from encroaching on the lives and exploiting the data of American citizens. I urge you to work with the White House and other federal agencies to include these companies on the DoW blacklist in the coming weeks.

I thank you again for your steadfast leadership of the Department of War and your commitment to protecting Americans and our national security. I look forward to your timely response.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-03-30T11:08:25Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/chairman-wicker-applauds-james-mazol-s-confirmation-as-deputy-undersecretary-of-defense-for-research-and-engineering,Chairman Wicker Applauds James Mazol’s Confirmation as Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, (R-Miss.) Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement on James Mazol’s confirmation to be the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.

“I can think of no one better than James Mazol to assume these responsibilities. He has the knowledge, experience, and vision to advance the horizons of America’s defense technology. I was privileged to benefit from Mr. Mazol’s service on both my Commerce and Armed Services committee staffs, as well as in my personal office. His work ethic, brilliance, and integrity always stood out. The United States is safer with James Mazol in the role of Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. James has a sharp understanding of the threat environment the United States faces, particularly as it pertains to China’s advancements in critical technology areas. I look forward to partnering with him and his office to meet America’s defense needs.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.wicker.senate.gov/2025/12/wicker-hyde-smith-congratulate-kruger-and-leary-confirmed-to-be-u-s-attorneys-for-mississippi,"Wicker, Hyde-Smith Congratulate Kruger and Leary, confirmed to be U.S. attorneys for Mississippi",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,MS,Roger F. Wicker,W000437,www.wicker.senate.gov,wicker,https://www.wicker.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) today released the following statement on the confirmation of James “Baxter” Kruger of Jackson and Scott Leary of Water Valley to serve as the United States Attorneys for Mississippi’s southern and northern districts, respectively.

“We are pleased to congratulate Baxter Kruger and Scott Leary for their confirmation to be United States Attorneys for Mississippi. With their legal and law enforcement experience, these men have developed deep knowledge of Mississippi precedent and have exhibited sound and fair judgment in their careers. As they take on these new roles, we are confident in their leadership. We trust they will oversee federal investigations and criminal prosecutions in Mississippi with professionalism and respect for the rule of law.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-applaud-bill-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-becoming-law/,"Young, Kaine Applaud Bill to Formally End Iraq Wars Becoming Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) applauded the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq. Young and Kaine’s bipartisan legislation to repeal these AUMFswas included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed by President Trump last night.

“It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all,” said Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “This is an important step of what I like to call legislative hygiene, for Congress to formally end these two wars. The 1991 and 2002 AUMFs are no longer necessary and leaving them on the books carries risk of potential misuse. I want to thank my Congressional colleagues and President Trump for supporting this legislation and specifically thank Senator Kaine for his partnership on this effort for many years. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of the men and women who served in these two conflicts. We honor your service and sacrifice.”

“The repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq—the first repeal of an authorization in more than 50 years—is historic. It allows the American people, including the generations of servicemembers who served in Iraq, to finally close the book on this part of our nation’s history,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “There have been too many instances of Congress abdicating its role in matters of war and peace, but the repeal of these AUMFs is a significant step forward in reclaiming our solemn constitutional responsibility and saying no to forever endless wars. I’m thankful to the cosponsors of this legislation and my colleagues for fulfilling our duty, to the President for signing the legislation into law, and to the many advocates, veterans, and military families who worked tirelessly alongside us to get this done.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-congratulates-president-trumps-u-s-attorney-nominees-for-indiana-on-senate-confirmation/,Sen. Banks Congratulates President Trump’s U.S. Attorney Nominees for Indiana on Senate Confirmation,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released a statement congratulating President Trump’s nominees, Adam Mildred (Northern District of Indiana) and Thomas Wheeler II (Southern District of Indiana), on their final confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as U.S. Attorneys for Indiana.

Said Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Adam Mildred and Tom Wheeler both bring decades of legal experience and a deep commitment to upholding law and order. I congratulate them on their final confirmation and am looking forward to the work they will do for Hoosiers across Indiana.”

Adam Mildred (Nominee for United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana)

Adam Mildred is currently a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Allen County and was formerly the Chief Deputy Prosecutor in Noble County. Adam is a veteran Indiana prosecutor and has prosecuted over 200 cases, including trials involving homicide, robbery, drug trafficking, and federal firearms offenses. He holds a B.S. from Ball State University and a J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law.

Tom Wheeler (Nominee for United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana)

Tom Wheeler is currently the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and was previously the Acting General Counsel at the Department of Education.. He has held senior roles across the federal government, including Acting Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice, Senior Advisor to the White House School Safety Commission, and Counsel to the Secretary of Education. Before returning to government, Wheeler was a partner at Bose McKinney & Evans LLP, a top Indianapolis law firm, where he represented federal, state, and local public entities. He holds a B.S. from Indiana University and a J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-jim-banks-visits-indiana-national-guard-troops-stationed-in-washington-d-c/,"Sen. Jim Banks Visits Indiana National Guard Troops Stationed in Washington, D.C.",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"This morning, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) visited Indiana National Guard troops who are in Washington D.C. to support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission as part of President Trump’s Make America Safe Again agenda.

Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Our Indiana National Guard soldiers represent the best of our state. It was great to spend time with them this morning and thank them for the important work they’re doing to help protect our nation’s capital.”

Photos available here.

Background:

300 Indiana National Guard solders arrived in Washington D.C. earlier this month to assist local and federal law enforcement partners to help deter crime and maintain public order. Soldiers trained at Camp Atterbury to prepare for the mission. As the mission evolves, they will continue training alongside Joint Task Force-District of Columbia.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-the-student-loan-tax-elimination-act/,Senator Banks Introduces the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced theStudent Loan Tax Elimination Act. This bill would eliminate origination fees for federal student loans. Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.) and Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) are leading the bill in the House.

Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Students deserve a fair deal when paying for college. My bill ends a hidden tax on student loans and ensures our next generation has a greater opportunity to receive a more affordable education.”

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.): “Student loan debt is holding Virginia families and the overall economy back. It should be easier, not harder, for American students to afford to go to college if that is the right path for them. That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to finally get rid of an antiquated tax on student loan borrowers.”

Melanie Storey, President & CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA): “The Student Loan Tax Elimination Act ensures federal student loans include only the funds needed to support educational costs — eliminating a hidden tax on students and families — and provides a key step toward greater transparency and affordability.”

Key Provisions of the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act are:

Amend the Higher Education Act to repeal origination fees imposed upon federal student loans.

Background:

The Higher Education Act of 1965 built the structure for a bank-based student lending program, a precursor to the modern student financial aid system. To help lenders manage the costs of those programs, Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized loans were charged a 1.057 percent fee, and PLUS loans were charged a 4 percent fee. Legislation in 2010 took all federal student loans out of the hands of private lenders and into the Department of Education. Despite this, these fees have remained.

According to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, who supports this bill, the federal government has taken in more than $6.7 billion over a five-year period from this hidden tax. During a time where college costs continue to soar, this fee continues to artificially inflate costs for students. Repealing this fee would help students and families get a more affordable education.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/republicans-are-unleashing-american-energy-dominance/,Republicans are Unleashing American Energy Dominance,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,WY,John Barrasso,B001261,www.barrasso.senate.gov,barrasso,https://www.barrasso.senate.gov/newsroom/news-releases/,scraper,"“This Christmas, Americans will pay the lowest gas prices in five years. Across the country, families are feeling the relief that comes from returning to common sense energy policies… America is an energy superpower. Under Republicans, we are finally acting like it again.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate Floor about the impact of unleashing affordable, available, reliable American energy.

Senator Barrasso also spoke about President Trump’s address to the nation and the lower prices reported in this morning’s inflation data.

Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.

Sen. Barrasso’s remarks:

“I come to the Floor today hearing the Minority Leader talking about the President’s address to the nation last night. I listened carefully to what the President had to say, and I thought he did an outstanding job explaining what a difference a year makes. Because what the President inherited, Republicans inherited, when we took over after Joe Biden and the Democrats had been in charge, our country was weaker, our country was poorer, our country was less safe. What we’ve seen is a complete reversal over the last year with a focus on significant changes.

“At the border, where we now have a secure border. Most secure it’s been in years and years and even decades. A huge difference on energy. We’re right now going into the Christmas season. Gasoline prices are at the lowest they’ve been in five years. Complete change in taxes, where the Democrats wanted to raise taxes on American families by $5 trillion. Instead, this year, as we go into next year, people are going to see a dramatic difference in lower taxes, impacting how much money they have in their pockets. And a dramatic change in national security. We now have peace through strength, and we didn’t have that over the last administration.

“And then, on top of all these things, President Trump announced something called a ‘Warrior Dividend.’ That’s going to give $1,776 to each and every one of our brave men and women in uniform, and there are over a million of them right now. And what a gift, and what a bonus, to thank them for their service. Oh, yes, we are dramatically changing the direction of this country. We’re getting America back on track.

“And Mr. President, just this morning, we got additional good news. It’s the latest inflation report. The inflation has slowed in November to 2.7 percent, and that is lower than anything anyone expected. That’s a reflection of the work that we’re doing. Core inflation was the lowest since March of 2021 – that’s when Joe Biden and the Democrats came into office, and we faced 40-year high inflation. That’s what the American people suffered through under four years of Biden and the Democrats. This is good news for consumers. It’s good news for Main Street. It’s good news for the country.

“The evidence is undeniable. Republicans are getting America back on track.

“This Christmas, Americans will pay the lowest gas prices in five years. Across the country, families are feeling the relief that comes from returning to common sense energy policies. For years, consumers struggled with sky-high energy prices. Gas prices hit $5 per gallon. Diesel prices were even higher. I’ll never forget the day Joe Biden told his Environmental Protection Agency to prioritize climate over energy that was affordable, available, and reliable. That era is over. By unleashing energy that is affordable, available, and reliable Republicans are making America safer and more prosperous.

“A vital piece of American energy dominance is clean American coal. A few months ago, President Trump declared that American clean coal is essential for our nation’s safety and prosperity. As part of the Working Families Tax Cuts, Republicans in Congress lowered the royalty rate for coal production on federal lands. The old, higher tax rate risked keeping coal in the ground. Lower rates mean higher production. This is good for Wyoming and good for America. Wyoming is America’s energy breadbasket. Our Powder River Basin produces nearly half the coal in America. It is the cleanest-burning coal in the world.

“More production means affordable energy. More production means more revenue for Wyoming schools. More production means more certainty for decades into the future. More production means more good paying jobs.

“Joe Biden tried to cripple clean coal production. His administration imposed the punishing Buffalo Resource Management Plan on Wyoming – a plan to stop mining of American coal. Republicans used the Congressional Review Act to restore sanity to energy production. Now, Wyoming coal producers in the Power River Basin can provide the coal needed to power the country. As a result, miners see a brighter future. Coal production is now up six percent since last year.

“Another critical piece of American energy superiority is nuclear energy. Last year, the Senate passed my bill to ban the import of Russian uranium. President Trump is also supporting uranium production and nuclear energy as part of his all-of-the-above strategy. Uranium production in America is now booming. My home state of Wyoming is the second largest producer of uranium in America. Our production has increased nearly 100 percent since last year. Because of Republican policies, production facilities that were once dormant are now ramping up. That’s because they have the certainty of business. Nuclear energy fuels 20 percent of American electricity. We need it. More power from all energy sources will bring affordable electricity prices in the future.

“Republicans also ended the Electric Vehicle Mandate. We got rid of the $7,500 government subsidies to buy electric cars. When California tried to control what cars Americans could drive, we stepped in and we stopped them. Electric vehicles are vehicles Americans don’t want and can’t afford. We were not going to allow California to force feed us. Now, Americans are back in the driver’s seat.

“Republicans also removed Green New Deal regulations. We did it throughout the entire government. Taxpayers saved billions of dollars. Additionally, Republicans repealed the Biden-era tax on natural gas. That saves Americans money when they heat their home. Republicans rolled back Biden-era regulations on home appliances. Now Americans have the freedom to purchase the appliances that work best for them, their families, and their budgets.

“The contrast is dramatic. Senate Democrats have no plan and no desire to make energy more affordable. Democrats may talk about affordability, yet energy costs are highest in their home states. In Senator Schumer’s home state of New York, electricity prices are up 36 percent over the last six years. New York energy prices are 44 percent higher than the national average. In California, electricity prices are up 58 percent in five years. Democrats ought to take responsibility for the higher prices their policies caused.

“Affordable, reliable American energy is a necessity, not a luxury. It is good for our workers. It is good for our economy. It is good for our safety and security. America is an energy superpower. Under Republicans, we are finally acting like it again.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/blackburn-statement-on-confirmation-of-tennesseans-jeff-hagood-and-mitch-graves-to-tva-board,Blackburn Statement on Confirmation of Tennesseans Jeff Hagood and Mitch Graves to TVA Board,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after Jeff Hagood and Mitch Graves were confirmed to the Tennessee Valley Authority Board of Directors:

“Today, the Senate confirmed two outstanding Tennesseans to the board of the Tennessee Valley Authority, Jeff Hagood and Mitch Graves,” said Senator Blackburn. “These two Tennesseans will help achieve America’s nuclear renaissance and deliver affordable and abundant energy. With Jeff and Mitch on the board, we will make certain Tennessee leads in next-generation nuclear and helps the United States win the global race for energy dominance.”

RELATED

VIDEO: Blackburn Introduces TVA Board Nominees Mitch Graves and Jeff Hagood at Senate Committee Nomination Hearing

America’s Nuclear Renaissance: How the TVA Can Lead Our Energy Future",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/crime/jobs and economy/immigration/video-blackburn-highlights-republicans-accomplishments-in-2025,VIDEO: Blackburn Highlights Republicans’ Accomplishments in 2025,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor highlighting some of the accomplishments achieved by President Trump and Republicans in 2025. President Trump has made America safer and stronger, fixed the Biden border crisis, restored law and order in American cities, rooted out wokeness in our institutions, secured trillions in new investments, and restored peace through strength after the four years of weakness from Joe Biden. Thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts passed by Republicans and signed into law by President Trump, Americans’ tax refunds next year are projected to be about one-third larger than usual, or roughly an extra $1,000 per filer.

Click hereto download Senator Blackburn’s remarks on the Senate floor.

EXCERPTS OF REMARKS",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/12/general/blackburn-welch-introduce-legislation-to-empower-visual-artists-to-protect-their-work,"Blackburn, Welch Introduce Legislation to Empower Visual Artists to Protect Their Work",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the Visual Artists Copyright Reform Act (VACRA), which would modernize copyright registration for visual artists to make it easier and less costly for high-volume visual artists to register and protect their works.

“Visual artists produce incredible work that deserves to be protected, but current copyright law has fallen short,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Visual Artists Copyright Reform Act would modernize copyright registration so creators like photographers, illustrators, and graphic artists can protect their work and enforce their rights. This bill would fix a broken system by cutting unnecessary costs and bureaucracy, helping America’s creative community thrive.”

“Vermont’s visual creators make significant contributions to our country, and their work should be protected. But visual artists often struggle to protect the authenticity of their work because of the unique challenges facing high-volume artists,” said Senator Welch. “We’re working to modernize copyright processes and safeguard the creativity of visual artists.”

BACKGROUND

The Copyright Act offers the promise that copyrightable works are automatically protected the instant they are created. This is a cruel façade as those rights cannot be enforced unless each work is registered with the Copyright Office.

The registration process is so bureaucratic and complicated that the time and expense of compliance is too high for high-volume creators like photographers, illustrators, and graphic artists.

The Copyright Office is aware of these shortcomings but has failed to address them.

THE VISUAL ARTISTS COPYRIGHT REFORM ACT

The VACRA would:

Direct the Register of Copyrights to establish a process for an individual to submit a single application for copyright registration of a group of up to 3,000 photographs;

Adopt a deferred copyright registration option. Under current law, the Copyright Office calculates registration fees based on their administrative costs, regardless of ability to pay or the punitive impact of high fees on photographers and all creators. These high fees ultimately result in many high-volume visual artists not registering their works because they cannot afford to do so. This bill would create a less costly “deferred examination” option for those who need it;

Direct the Register of Copyrights to establish regulations that allow for all-you-can-eatannual registration subscriptions for pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works; and

Direct the Register of Copyrights to create a modern, secure, searchable registry of electronic copies of copyrighted photos and the copyright holders’ information. Until the Copyright Office can achieve this, photographers would be allowed to submit copies of their photos to Copyright Office-certified private sector registries. Depositing a photo in such a registry would satisfy all necessary copyright deposit requirements. Allowing creators to submit their deposits to third party registries rather than the Copyright Office would streamline the process while also providing the public with useful information about the deposited work. This provision would sunset when the Copyright Office is able to provide its own modern, efficient online system.

Click here for bill text.

ENDORSEMENTS

The VACRA is endorsed by Professional Photographers of America and the American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP):

“Professional photographers are important to our world. They are the keepers of our societal memory,” said Professional Photographers of America CEO David Trust. “The United States is the only country that requires creators to register their works before receiving full protection. It has been inexcusable that this problem has gone on for so long. We cannot praise Senators Blackburn and Welch enough for stepping in to correct the injustice.”

“VACRA breaks down the barriers that prevent so many creators and photographers across the country from being able to protect the fruits of their life’s work and passion,” said ASMP Chief Executive Officer Thomas Maddrey. “These sorely needed and common-sense reforms are long overdue and are a first step in bringing so many artists back into the very copyright system that is designed to support their efforts in the creative economy. ASMP applauds Senator Blackburn and Senator Welch for their leadership and support of VACRA, and the far-reaching effects this bill will have on photographers and all visual creators in this country.”

RELATED

Blackburn, Welch Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Musicians, Artists, and Creators from Unauthorized AI Training",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.britt.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-u-s-senator-katie-britt-joins-hannity-on-fox-news/,ICYMI: U.S. Senator Katie Britt Joins Hannity on Fox News,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AL,Katie Boyd Britt,B001319,www.britt.senate.gov,britt,https://www.britt.senate.gov/media/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) joined Sean Hannity on Fox News with Senators Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) following President Trump’s end of year Presidential Address to the nation.

On President Trump’s accomplishments just 11 months into his second term:

“He very clearly said to the American people, I see you. And look at the things that we’ve done. What he has accomplished in just these first ten, 11 months is remarkable. But I think more is yet to come. He secured our border. He did it. We passed the Laken Riley Act. It’s actually the first immigration enforcement law that we’ve passed in like 30 years. In addition to that, he has taken on fentanyl.”

“And then you look at no men in women sports. Look, I have a daughter who plays volleyball, who plays basketball. I want her to have a fair opportunity to compete on that court. And President Trump gave her that.”

“It’s things like the Trump Accounts … if your child is born during the Trump administration, you’re going to get $1,000 into this account. We’re already seeing philanthropists step up. We’re already seeing different businesses saying, I’m going to do this for my employees. So, he is creating this public private partnership that ultimately is going to allow everyday Americans to achieve the American dream.”

“…[B]ecause after the Biden administration, with wide open borders, with total chaos abroad, total chaos, and with parents who felt like the government was in their way, President Trump has changed the dynamic, and it’s a good day for our country and more to come.”

On what Americans can expect to see in 2026 as a result of President Trump and Republicans’ efforts:

“Look, we’re putting more money back in Americans pockets as a result of President Trump’s leadership. We’re going to see it on everything. The no tax on tips and no tax on overtime, but even in childcare. It’s something Democrats have talked about for years, Sean. And President Trump has led the way, allowing parents to keep more of their hard-earned money and actually tackling the affordability, accessibility of childcare. So, there are so many things that we have done that people haven’t actually gotten to reap the benefits of yet, and they will next year when that happens.”

You can watch the full segment here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.budd.senate.gov/2025/12/18/senator-budd-releases-statement-opposing-marijuana-rescheduling/,Senator Budd Releases Statement Opposing Marijuana Rescheduling,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,NC,Ted Budd,B001305,www.budd.senate.gov,budd,https://www.budd.senate.gov/category/news/press-releases/page/,scraper,"“We should not be handing tax breaks to bad actors and foreign drug cartels to advertise a drug that will harm Americans.”

Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) released the following statement after President Trump signed an executive order that would reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a lower classification, easing federal restrictions on the substance:

“Rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III substance and putting more money in the pockets of marijuana companies is a shortsighted policy decision that will have detrimental effects on the health and safety of Americans, especially our nation’s youth. The negative health impacts of marijuana are numerous and well-documented—increased risk of heart attack, stroke, psychotic disorders, addiction, and hospitalization. Marijuana use contributes significantly to deadly traffic and workplace accidents, and with this action, our Department of Transportation will be unable to conduct testing for marijuana—even for America’s pilots and truck drivers. We should not be handing tax breaks to bad actors and foreign drug cartels to advertise a drug that will harm Americans.”

BUDD LEADS SENATE LETTER OPPOSING MARIJUANA RESCHEDULING

Yesterday, Senator Budd led 21 of his Senate Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Trump urging him to reconsider rescheduling marijuana. The full text of that letter is available HERE and below:

“We write to ask you to uphold marijuana’s status as a Schedule I drug. Rescheduling marijuana to a Schedule III drug will undermine your strong efforts to Make America Great Again and to usher in America’s next economic Golden Age. The only winners from rescheduling will be bad actors such as Communist China, while Americans will be left paying the bill.

“Marijuana continues to fit the definition of a Schedule I drug due to its high potential for abuse and its lack of an FDA-approved use. The evidence shows that marijuana is harmful to its users, especially to young people and women who are pregnant and nursing. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, studies show that marijuana is linked to “depression, anxiety, suicide planning, and psychotic episodes.” Tragically, mass shootings have a link to marijuana use, including school shootings; in fact, the shooter who attacked a Catholic school in Minneapolis blamed his actions on “gender and weed” and wrote, “I wish I never tried experimenting with either.” Additionally, marijuana has long-term effects on brain health, including “permanent IQ loss” when a person starts using marijuana at a young age. Lastly, babies are also at risk from marijuana, as marijuana use during pregnancy may result in “fetal growth restriction, premature birth, stillbirth, and problems with brain development, resulting in hyperactivity and poor cognitive function.”

“We cannot reindustrialize America if we encourage marijuana use. America’s workplace and America’s roads are endangered by marijuana use. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified studies linking marijuana use to “impaired judgment” and “lack of concentration,” as well as research finding increases in industrial accidents, injuries, and absenteeism among employees who tested positive for marijuana versus those who tested negative. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that marijuana users are more likely to be involved with car crashes and studies show that marijuana impacts motor skills, cognitive functions, and user’s ability to multitask, which is a “critical skill” for drivers.

“Rescheduling would also give a massive tax break to marijuana companies. These companies are currently prohibited from taking business tax deductions under Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code due to their involvement with marijuana, given its status as a Schedule I drug. According to the marijuana industry’s own researchers, marijuana companies would obtain a $2.3 billion tax break if marijuana were to be rescheduled. Marijuana business leaders have said they will use this infusion of funds to increase their marketing and to expand their businesses into additional states. While supporters of rescheduling argue that extending tax benefits to marijuana businesses will create economic growth, the costs of workplace and vehicular accidents caused by increased marijuana usage far exceeds any perceived benefits—not to mention the moral costs of marijuana advertising that could reach kids.

“In light of the documented dangers of marijuana, facilitating the growth of the marijuana industry is at odds with growing our economy and encouraging healthy lifestyles for Americans. We urge you to continue your strong leadership of our country and our economy, and to turn away from marijuana rescheduling.”

Joining Senator Budd in sending this letter were Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Shelley Moore Capito (R- W.Va.), James Lankford (R- Okla.), Roger Marshall (R- Kan.), Pete Ricketts (R- Neb.), Tommy Tuberville (R- Ala.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Marsha Blackburn (R- Tenn.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mike Crapo (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-bill-to-help-families-claim-the-earned-income-and-child-tax-credits-after-a-natural-disaster/,Cassidy Introduces Bill to Help Families Claim the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits After a Natural Disaster,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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) introduced the Working Families Disaster Tax Relief Act to allow disaster-impacted working families to use the previous year’s income to claim the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) after a presidential major disaster declaration.

“After a natural disaster hits, a family’s ability to make a living can be wiped away just as easily as their home. We should ensure that parents who lose income keep the ability to feed their children,” said Dr. Cassidy.

The Working Families Disaster Tax Relief Act would:

Prevent families from losing access to these benefits due to temporary income loss. Congress has authorized similar temporary provisions for both the CTC and EITC following recent major disasters, including Hurricane Katrina, and for all taxpayers nationwide during COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021.

Amend the Internal Revenue Code to allow disaster-affected taxpayers to use a previous year’s income for the Child Tax Credit when the President declares a major disaster under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.

Designate disaster-affected taxpayers to include individuals whose principal place of abode or principal place of work is located in a disaster zone.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in introducing the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-thune-introduce-bill-to-protect-louisiana-crawfish-industry/,"Cassidy, Thune Introduce Bill to Protect Louisiana Crawfish Industry",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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) and U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) introduced the China Trade Cheating Restitution Act, which would direct Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to pay $38.5 million from the interest on anti-dumping duties received from Chinese imports to certain agricultural sectors harmed by China’s illegal trade practices, including $10.6 million for crawfish producers.

“Louisiana’s crawfish industry is more than just a business—it’s our culture. We’re standing up to China’s illegal attempts to hurt our producers, our processors, and our way of life,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“South Dakota is one of the top honey-producing states in the country,” said Senator Thune. “The unfair practice of circumventing U.S. trade laws, which jeopardizes honey producers’ financial security, should be met with strict enforcement and increased protections. South Dakota honey producers deserve a level playing field. This bipartisan legislation helps ensure fair treatment for affected domestic producers and strengthens their ability to compete globally.”

“Louisiana crawfish processors have taken a beating from unfairly traded crawfish from China,” said Adam Johnson of Bayou Land Seafood in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana – an industry leader. “We are fortunate to have a Senator, like Bill Cassidy, who is willing to stand up for the industry.”

For years, Chinese producers have participated in trade practices known as “dumping”, in which crawfish is exported to the U.S. at a price below the cost of production, driving Louisiana crawfish producers out of business. While federal law instructs CBP to pass on these funds to American agricultural producers, administrative delays have prevented much of it from reaching businesses affected by China’s unfair actions.

In 2000, Congress passed the Continued Dumping and Subsidy Offset Act (CDSOA), which instructed CBP to pay all collected anti-dumping (AD) duties and accrued interest to the U.S. producers that were injured by dumped imports. CDSOA applies to imports that entered the U.S. through September 30, 2007, but due to a range of delays, CBP is still assessing and collecting AD duties and interest on many of these imports.

The China Trade Cheating Restitution Act would:

Require CBP to distribute under CDSOA an estimated $35.6 million in accrued delinquency interest on the antidumping duties that CBP collected and wrongfully withheld;

Amend the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 to move the date of interest collected by the CBP to be dispersed from October 1, 2014 to October 1, 2000 to account for substantial interest withheld by CBP beginning in 2000.

Cassidy and Thune were joined by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Tina Smith (D-MN) in introducing the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-cassidy-applauds-louisiana-opting-in-to-trump-backed-school-choice-program/,ICYMI: Cassidy Applauds Louisiana Opting in to Trump-Backed School Choice Program,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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) released a statement applauding Louisiana for opting in to the upcoming federal school choice scholarship tax credit. Cassidy secured this provision in Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cut bill that passed earlier this year. In October, Cassidy sent letters to governors across the country urging them to opt-in to the program.

“I worked with President Trump to add my school choice bill to the Working Families Tax Cuts, and now Louisiana families will benefit,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re helping parents choose the best school for their children. Thank you, Governor Landry for adding Louisiana to the list.”

As Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Cassidy held a hearing earlier this year on how to reform K-12 education to put students and families first. He also led a resolution recognizing January 26 – February 1 as National School Choice Week.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-sheehy-introduce-bill-to-revoke-tax-exempt-status-of-cair-groups-bankrolling-terrorists/,"Cornyn, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status of CAIR, Groups Bankrolling Terrorists",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,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 Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced legislation that would allow the U.S. Department of the Treasury to terminate the tax-exempt status of groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) that provide material support, such as finances, services, or training, to terrorist organizations. This comes as Texas announced its designation of CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization.

“I’m introducing legislation to strip CAIR of its tax-exempt status because no organization who bankrolls terrorists should get a tax break, period,” said Sen. Cornyn.“CAIR is a radical group of terrorist sympathizers with a long history of undermining American values and trying to unconstitutionally impose Sharia Law on Texas, which is why I stand behind Governor Abbott’s decision to designate it as a foreign terrorist organization. I also call on President Trump to do so at the federal level to ensure this breeding ground for anti-American hate is starved of funding and forced to close its doors once and for all.”

“Radical groups that support terrorists who chant ‘Death to America’ should not benefit from tax breaks to fund their extremist ideology,” said Sen. Sheehy. “I’m proud to support this America First, commonsense bill to remove the tax-exempt status for organizations that support terror groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Al-Qaeda.”

U.S. Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Background:

Under current U.S. tax code, an entity’s tax-exempt status is suspended if it is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a terrorist organization, which includes groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Al-Qaeda. This legislation would extend the current prohibition to include organizations that provide or have provided material support or resources, such as finances, services, or training, to a terrorist organization within the past three years. In addition, the bill would establish procedures for the IRS to provide notice to those organizations, for organizations to refute the designation, and for designations to be rescinded through administrative and judicial review.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/swingin-around-the-texas-christmas-tree/,Swingin’ Around the Texas Christmas Tree,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,TX,John Cornyn,C001056,www.cornyn.senate.gov,cornyn,https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/,scraper,"When it’s Christmas time in Texas, as George Strait once sang, we’ll be swingin’ around the Christmas tree. In his hit holiday single, When It’s Christmas Time in Texas, Strait delves into what this festive time of year looks like for Texans. We may not always get snow, and it may feel more like a summer day for some, but it is still Christmas, nonetheless. One tradition that keeps the holiday spirit high in our household is the Christmas tree.

Going to pick out the family Christmas tree is a memorable holiday tradition for many Texans. Siblings fight over their favorite tree, one picking the fluffy, tall fir, the other picking the short pine, but somehow always ending up with the perfect tree. Even if it’s 70 degrees outside, the Christmas music makes the selection process feel magical.

It is activities like this that make Christmas in Texas so charming. As of 2022, it seems like most Texans agree. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture, the Christmas tree industry in Texas is growing due to an increase in farm acreage, ongoing demand, and opportunities for new seed-improvement programs.

In 2017, Texas was home to 125 Christmas tree producers farming on 945 acres. Only five years later, the Department of Agriculture reported that there were 220 Christmas tree producers in Texas, farming on a remarkable 3,565 acres. One of our state’s largest Christmas tree farms is Old Time Christmas Tree Farm in Klein, Texas. The family farm manages more than 40,000 pine and cypress trees across 40 acres, each tree planted by hand.

There are many different types of Christmas trees, ranging from pine and cypress to fir and spruce. The most commonly grown Christmas tree in Texas is the Virginia Pine. This specific species has the perfect climatic adaptability, growth rate, and form to withstand the tough Texas terrain. The Virginia Pine is even known to be the “anchor species” of the Texas Christmas tree industry.

However, there’s a new tree on the scene that seeks to earn its place in your living room. Over the last decade, the Leland Cypress has been quietly growing in popularity. This tree is hypoallergenic and doesn’t drop its needles as fast as some other species, allowing you to spend less time cleaning and more time celebrating the holidays with friends and family.

As the demand for trees rises, small-scale operations are helping to keep your local Christmas tree farm stocked. According to the Department of Agriculture, roughly 66% of Texas’ Christmas tree farms are less than 10 acres in size. Many of these farms offer more than just Christmas trees. At some, you’ll find an entirely immersive Christmas experience, including light shows, hot chocolate, music, fake snow, and even Santa Claus himself!

As a Texan, we know that our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of the Lone Star State. Christmas tree farms play a huge role not only in special holiday memories but also in our agriculture community, and many families rely on Christmas tree sales for their livelihood. Family-owned Christmas tree farms work hard to produce the trees that Texans love and the joyous seasonal spirit that brings communities together.

When you are picking out your Texas-grown tree this season and decorating it with ornaments, ribbons, and lights, know that your tree is more than just a collection of branches and needles – it is pure Texas Christmas spirit. Our Texas Christmas tree farms are keeping family traditions alive and helping Texans make memories for many Christmases to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-introduces-bill-to-protect-arkansas-national-guardsmen,Cotton Introduces Bill to Protect Arkansas National Guardsmen,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353

December 18, 2025

Cotton Introduces Bill to Protect Arkansas National Guardsmen

Washington, DC — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced legislation to create a 15-foot protective zone around any National Guardsmen in uniform performing domestic duties. The National Guard Protective Zone Act will ensure that any individual who attempts to intimidate or harass a Guardsmen will face consequences.

“The brave Arkansans who serve in our National Guard should be protected from deranged individuals. My bill ensures that anyone who attempts to intimidate or harass a Guardsmen will face the full force of the law,” said Senator Cotton.

Text of the bill can be found here.

The National Guard Protective Zone Act would:

Create a federally defined “protective zone” (15 feet) around any Guardsman in uniform actively performing Title 32 or Title 10 domestic duties.

Mandate that entering the zone with intent to intimidate, harass, or impede equates to a new federal misdemeanor.

Establish as a felony the act of touching, spitting on, or throwing any object at a National Guard member while on duty, with a maximum penalty of imprisonment for up to five years.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z