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://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-hails-passage-2021-government-funding-and-covid-19,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Hails Passage of the 2021 Government Funding And COVID-19 Stimulus Bill, Which Included His Priority Provisions",2020-12-30,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Krishnamoorthi hailed the $900 billion COVID-19 stimulus bill and the $1.4 trillion fiscal 2021 Appropriations bill that passed Congress and were signed into law by President Trump this week. I am thankful that Congress was able to negotiate a bipartisan COVID-19 stimulus package that will provide much needed relief to Americans across the country and that the 2021 omnibus spending bill was signed into law as well, which will allow our government agencies and services to continue operations uninterrupted, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said. The country has been awaiting the passage of this crucial legislation, and I'm proud to have supported it. Some of the main provisions included in the COVID-19 Emergency Relief package include: Economic Impact Payments: $166 billion Payments of $600 for individuals making up to $75,000 per year, $1,200 for couples making up to $150,000 per year, and $600 payment for each child dependent. Small Business: $325 billion Provides first and second forgivable PPP loans, dedicated set-asides for very small businesses and lending through community-based lenders like Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions, and expanded PPP eligibility for 501(c)(6) nonprofits New EIDL Grants for businesses in low-income communities, continued SBA debt relief payments, and enhancements to SBA lending. Unemployment Insurance: $120 billion Provides an additional $300 per week for all workers receiving unemployment benefits, through March 14, 2021. Extends the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, with expanded coverage to the self-employed, gig workers, and others in nontraditional employment Extends the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program, which provides additional weeks of federally-funded unemployment benefits to individuals who exhaust their regular state benefits. Vaccines, Testing and Tracing, Community Health and Health Care Provider Support: $69 billion Schools: $82 billion Rental Assistance For Landlords and Tenants: $25 billion Establish emergency federal rental assistance program An extension of the existing CDC eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021 Transportation: $45 billion Airline payroll support and airline contractor payrolls Funding for transit, state highways, airports and airport concessionaires, private motorcoach, school bus, ferry industries, and Amtrak Child Care: $10 billion Emergency funds for Child Care Development Block Grants (CCDBG) program Funding for Head Start providers who serve low-income children and families Nutrition and Agriculture: $26 billion Increases SNAP benefits Allocates emergency funds for school and day care feeding programs Direct payments, purchases and loans to farmers and ranchers who have suffered losses due to the pandemic Broadband: $7 billion Provisions which Congressman Krishnamoorthi championed which were a part of the packages included: Extending the time period over which states and localities may spend aid from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) Funding for vaccine public service announcements and education in order to increase awareness of the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine to support universal inoculation Increased funding for e-cigarette prevention programs to combat the youth vaping epidemic Funding programs to curb distracted driving to reduce motor vehicle injuries and deaths Reestablishing a national council of educators, researchers, and security professionals to protect American technology and intellectual property from foreign adversaries and intelligence agencies Directing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to finalize rules to ensure that car seats are properly tested for side-impact crashes. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a tragic public health crisis while creating a period of enormous hardship for millions of American families, said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. With the passage of this package, we will be able to lend a helping hand to those families and small businesses in need while working to bring this epidemic to an end. Though this is a crucial step in our efforts, it must be far from the last.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/116th-congress-in-review-bustos-delivers-historic-accomplishments-in-unprecedented-term/,116th Congress in Review: Bustos Delivers Historic Accomplishments in Unprecedented Term,2020-12-29,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington Over the course of the 116th Congress, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos worked to deliver historic accomplishments in an unprecedented Congressional term. From delivering hundreds of millions in federal funding for the communities she serves to helping Illinois navigate a global pandemic to giving the Heartland a seat at the House leadership table, Congresswoman Bustos has been a tireless advocate for Northwestern and Central Illinois over the past two years. Whether working to increase access to affordable health care or prioritizing rebuilding our economy in the midst of the largest economic downturn since the Great Depression, it has been my honor to fight for our corner of Illinois during these last two historic years, said Congresswoman Bustos. The fact is that whether you are an underserved family living in an urban community or an underserved family living in a rural community, we all want the same thing the chance to work hard and earn a good living. That's why, this Congress, I was proud to have worked to invest in our infrastructure, help our Gold Star families and injured veterans, work to lower prescription drug costs and help our communities navigate an unprecedented global pandemic. INCREASING ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE Beginning with helping to pass legislation to protect Illinoisans with pre-existing conditions, Congresswoman Bustos has worked tirelessly to increase access to health care. In 2019, the Congresswoman convened local roundtable discussions in Peoria and Rockford and lifted up the stories of Illinoisans (VIDEO) to highlight the need for lower prescription drugs, worked to include a permanent repeal of the Cadillac Tax in a year-end spending bill, secured millions in federal funding for rural health centers and helped pass the Lower Drug Costs Now Act (VIDEO) to rein in skyrocketing drug prices and allow Medicare to negotiate prescription costs. For rural communities, the Congresswoman pushed the USDA to hire their first-ever Rural Health Liaison, whose sole focus is to improve health outcomes in rural America and introduced legislation to address rural health workforce challenges. In 2020, Congresswoman Bustos secured a first-of-its-kind $3 million pilot program, modeled after her Social Determinants Accelerator Act, as part of Congress' year-end spending bill. This new program will help local governments create plans to empower communities to fight the social factors that harm long-term health, such as health care provider shortages, food deserts, unsafe and insecure housing and other environmental factors. Throughout the year, Congresswoman Bustos utilized her position on the powerful House Appropriations Committee to advocate for COVID-19 help for rural communities (VIDEO) and address disparate impacts of the Coronavirus on communities of color (VIDEO). Partnering with Congresswoman Lauren Underwood of Illinois, she convened a roundtable to discuss Black maternal health. And as mental health struggles reached epidemic levels in the midst of state and local shutdowns, Congresswoman Bustos introduced the Crisis Care Improvement and Suicide Prevention Act to help states upgrade crisis care programs and strategies. This legislation was passed as part of the year-end package. In Rockford, when Mercyhealth refused the insurance of Medicaid patients and downgraded the community's access to critical health services in the midst of a pandemic, Congresswoman Bustos stood up to CEO Javon Bea, calling on House leadership to limit federal support unless Bea restored service to all Medicaid patients and protesting the institution's mental health unit closure. EXPANDING OUR FARMERS' ACCESS TO MARKETS Access to markets is critical for the survival of our growers and producers. When negotiations began on an update to North American Free Trade Agreement, Illinois' farmers and workers deserved the strongest trade deal possible. In 2019, Congresswoman Bustos worked to create a path forward that would provide a seat at the table for labor and agricultural stakeholders, including convening a meeting in Illinois with the Speaker of the House, the Illinois Farm Bureau and Farmers for Free Trade. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which delivered real progress for labor, farmers and manufacturers, was passed and signed into law (VIDEO). Congresswoman Bustos also worked to make sure that our region's goods can continue to get to market efficiently by pushing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide the first funding in a decade for the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP). In FY20, the Corps invested $4.5 million for preconstruction engineering and design for NESP, which would modernize and expand seven outdated locks and restore ecosystems along the Upper Mississippi River. DELIVERING FOR OUR RURAL COMMUNITIES In rural Illinois, one in four people do not have access to high speed internet. Congresswoman Bustos helped pass the Moving Forward Act, a funding package and an infrastructure bill that included nearly $1 billion for rural broadband. In 2019, Congresswoman Bustos introduced the Rural Green Partnership a framework of principles and policies to combat climate change, spur economic growth and lift farmers' voices in the conversation on climate. The Rural Green Partnership details a set of policies that work with federal, local and state governments, producers, businesses, unions, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders to lower greenhouse gas emissions in every economic sector of rural America. In 2020, the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis released their Climate Crisis Action Report, which included critical aspects of the Rural Green Partnership. Voluntary incentives for farmers, utilization and expansion of carbon capture, ongoing roles for biofuels and increased deployment of other renewables like wind and solar were included as key recommendations on how we can best tackle the climate crisis head-on. To bring an environmental lens to biofuels production, Congresswoman Bustos introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act, a bill to leverage greater fuel octane to reduce carbon emissions from transportation, improve air quality by reducing the use of harmful aromatics and increase demand for biofuels. Named bold and innovative by stakeholders, this legislation continues to gain support from producers and industry leaders. To address severe nationwide shortages of early childhood and K-12 teachers that disproportionately impacts students from low-income backgrounds and students of color, Congresswoman Bustos introduced the bicameral Retaining Educators Takes Added Investment Now (RETAIN) Act, which would create a fully refundable tax credit for teachers and other education professionals to encourage recruitment and retention in rural communities and communities of color. The legislation has earned the support of local school officials in Rockford, Peoria, Monmouth and Rock Island. SUPPORTING OUR SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS AND HONORING OUR HEROES This Congress, Congresswoman Bustos was honored to hold two different ceremonies to rename our post offices after local heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation: the Alpha Post Office after Captain Joshua E. Steele and the Pekin Post Office after Lance Cpl. Jordan Bastean, and introduced and passed a bill to rename the Galesburg Post Office in honor of Senior Airman Daniel Miller (VIDEO). Congresswoman Bustos spearheaded support for Gold Star families and spouses of catastrophically injured service members through her bipartisan, bicameral Gold Star Spouses and Spouses of Injured Servicemembers Leasing Relief Expansion Act, which was signed into law as part of the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In the 2020 NDAA legislation passed this December, the Congresswoman worked to include provisions to establish a Zillow-style real estate online tool for the Army, provide a pay raise for our military, enhance student loan benefits for National Guard and Reserve members and require the Department of Defense to provide answers for its inconsistent and troubling record on National Guard COVID-response funding. As cash-strapped states faced cuts to federal support for pandemic response efforts, Congresswoman Bustos urged the Administration stop playing political games, restore full funding and extend National Guard deployments for the duration of the pandemic. After re-introducing her All American Flag Act last year, to ensure that all American flags purchased with taxpayer funds are made in America (VIDEO), Congresswoman Bustos secured a provision in the final Congressional package to encourage all federal agencies to purchase only American flags made in America and with American products. This was passed this month. WORKING TOWARD RACIAL JUSTICE Following the national outcry after George Floyd's death, Congresswoman Bustos attended listening sessions and meetings with religious leaders and members of communities of color throughout Northern and Central Illinois. As an original co-sponsor of the bill, she helped introduce and pass the historic George Floyd Justice in Policing Act (VIDEO), an important step toward comprehensive reform that aims to protect civil rights at the federal level, increase accountability and build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. To address ongoing segregation in our educational institutions, and provide support to school districts that are developing, implementing and expanding school diversity initiatives, Congresswoman Bustos helped pass the Strength in Diversity Act and the Equity and Inclusion Enforcement Act. When minority-owned businesses faced additional barriers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Congresswoman Bustos hosted virtual small business roundtables for Latino and Black small business owners from across the region to provide resources at the state and federal level, featuring special guests Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez (NY-07), Chair of the House Small Business Committee, and House Majority Whip Congressman Jim Clyburn (SC-06). ENSURING THE ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL'S SUCCESS FOR THE FUTURE Congresswoman Bustos worked across the aisle to prioritize support for the Rock Island Arsenal's success, including advocating for the Arsenal during key Appropriations Committee hearings and securing over $50 million in funding for much needed building repairs on the Island. As part of a major 2019 funding package, Congresswoman Bustos included millions for the Rock Island Arsenal's Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center (JMTC), the conversion of Humvees into service trucks and future projects. In addition to increased federal investment in the Arsenal, the Congresswoman joined her colleagues in the Senate to announce 50 new jobs at the Arsenal in 2019. After the Congresswoman's continued advocacy, a total of 65 new human resources professionals were hired in 2020. After the pandemic hit, she joined Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth and U.S. Army Secretary Ryan D. McCarthy to visit the Arsenal to discuss their ability to pivot to produce desperately-needed personal protective equipment. SUPPORTING THE CHICAGO ROCKFORD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT With a long track record of supporting the Chicago Rockford International Airport, Congresswoman Bustos founded the Air Cargo Caucus in 2019 to allow members of Congress and industry leaders the opportunity to collaborate, share ideas and foster relationships. In May, Congresswoman Bustos announced $9 million in federal funding for the airport, and later announced additional $11 million in grant funding to rehabilitate the airport's taxis and runways. Congresswoman Bustos also helped secure $10 million for aviation workforce development grants for the aircraft pilot workforce and aviation maintenance workforce, in order to address the skills gap in the industry and in 2020, announced another $2.6 million to reconstruct a de-icing containment facility. Last year, Congresswoman Bustos joined Senator Duckworth in introducing the bipartisan, bicameral Promoting Aviation Regulations for Technical training (PART) 147 Act to update the decades-old federal regulations for training aviation maintenance workers and make sure those regulations align with work that more accurately reflects what is actually done on the job. This critical aviation legislation was passed as part of the Congressional year-end package. SUPPORTING THE QUAD-CITIES RAIL ROUTE Congresswoman Bustos believes in investing in public transportation infrastructure that's why in 2019, she was proud to announce an extension of $177 million in Federal Railroad Administration funding for the Amtrak route between Chicago and Moline, through December 31, 2024. Support for this critical rail funding passed the House as part of a major funding package in December. SAVING THE PEORIA AG LAB AND FIGHTING FOR OUR NATIONAL GUARD Congresswoman Bustos has spent this Congress tirelessly working to support the Peoria Ag Lab and Air National Guard Project's successes. She ensured that the President's budget included funding for the program after it was proposed to be eliminated. A 2019 legislative package included a requirement that the United States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service fill its vacant staff positions with permanent scientists, in order to help the Peoria Ag Lab fully staff up. Congresswoman Bustos also worked to protect and secure funding for the construction of a new fire station at the Peoria Air National Guard base after the funding was threatened to be diverted to construction of a Southern border wall. After fighting to save funding for the National Guard base, the Congresswoman pushed the Department of Defense to commit to leaving the Fire House funds untouched and later announced the award of a $7.8 million contract for the construction of a new Fire Crash Rescue Station at the Peoria Air National Guard. Congresswoman Bustos worked to include $79 million for engine enhancement packages for C-130H aircraft in a 2019 year-end package. In the 2020 NDAA bill, she worked to include authorization for continued propulsion and propeller upgrades for C-130H aircraft, such as those in operation at the 182nd Air National Guard squadron. CLEANING UP CORRUPTION AND STRENGTHENING OUR DEMOCRACY At the beginning of this term, Congresswoman Bustos helped introduce and pass H.R. 1 the For the People Act (VIDEO), to strengthen ethics laws, end the dominance of big money in elections and make it easier for Americans to vote. Building on the For the People Act, she passed legislation to protect the sanctity of the election process, strengthen our voting infrastructure and combat foreign interference in our elections. This year, she introduced a resolution to recognize the critical role election workers played in the historic Presidential election. Last year, Congresswoman Bustos introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would save significant taxpayer dollars by cutting down on wasteful government payments to people who have passed away or are otherwise ineligible to continue receiving these benefits. After news broke this June that the Administration had been sending stimulus checks to deceased people, Congresswoman Bustos continued to advocate for federal agencies to share data in order to avoid wasteful spending. A compromise version of this legislation passed this year as part of the year-end Congressional package. NAVIGATING THE COVID-19 GLOBAL PANDEMIC In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congresswoman Bustos helped pass the most significant series of relief packages in American history. These packages invested in our health care infrastructure; supported federal, state and local public health agencies and health centers; provided billions for research and the development of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics; and supported the procurement of pharmaceuticals, masks, personal protective equipment and other medical supplies. Legislation included: Coronavirus Supplemental Legislation, Families First Coronavirus Response Act, Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, the CARES Act and the final pandemic relief package signed into law this week. Despite Senate Republicans' failure to act, Congresswoman Bustos also worked to pass both the Heroes Act and Heroes 2.0 in May and October, as well as legislation increasing direct payments to $2,000 yesterday. Congresswoman Bustos also brought resources and information directly to constituents throughout the months following the first COVID-19 cases. She hosted multiple tele-town halls with public health experts, held regional webinars for small businesses, and virtual meetings with local stakeholders, including Farm Bureaus, postal workers, child care providers, public health experts, public health departments, hospital administrators, emergency management agencies, school superintendents, faith leaders and ministers, nursing homes and food banks. As frontline and essential workers faced a lack of critical child care services, Congresswoman Bustos also helped pass two major pieces of legislation to support and stabilize access to child care the Child Care is Essential Act and the Child Care for Economic Recovery Act. Together, these critical bills work to ensure child care providers can remain open, cover increased costs, operate safely, retain employees, expand access to care and support hardworking families. At Thomson and Pekin prisons, both staff and inmates faced unique challenges in navigating how the pandemic would impact each of their locations. After Thomson was initially included in a list of prison quarantine sites, Congresswoman Bustos joined Senators Durbin and Duckworth to push back and was successful in having the site removed from the list altogether. Later, when COVID-19 cases were confirmed both at Thomson and at Pekin, the Congresswoman worked to fight for testing and pressed the BOP Director on testing practices in a Congressional hearing (VIDEO). She also worked to help secure a new 25 percent relocation and recruitment incentive for Thomson Prison, in order to address long-standing understaffing at the site. Finally, when the USPS was threatened, putting veterans, seniors and small business owners at risk, Congresswoman Bustos met with local letter carriers (VIDEO) and helped pass the Delivering for America Act (VIDEO). BY THE NUMBERS 201 (2019) + 352 (2020) = 553 Total events in the district hosted or attended by Congresswoman Bustos, including teleconferences, virtual town halls, webinars, supermarket visits, business and organization tours, Cheri on Shifts, roundtable discussions and rural library visits, in addition to book donations. Congresswoman Bustos is proud to maintain strong outreach in Peoria, Rockford, the Quad-Cities and the many communities in between. 605 (2019) + 1,088 (2020) = 1,693 Constituent cases resolved. Congresswoman Bustos is fighting to make sure the government works for the people and is dedicated to helping Illinoisans cut through red tape at the VA, IRS and other federal agencies. $319,593.90 (2019) + $669, 183.48 (2020) = $988,777.38 Nearly $1 million in constituent money recovered from the Social Security Administration, the IRS and the VA, and returned to constituents in the district. Constituents having problems with any of these agencies are encouraged to reach out to one of our offices in Peoria, Rock Island or Rockford. Congresswoman Bustos' office was also proud to be recognized as a 2020 Democracy Awards Finalist for Constituent Services, one of only eight House offices in the nation. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-requests-house-judiciary-committee-hold-hearings-on-anjanette-young,Rush Requests House Judiciary Committee Hold Hearings on Anjanette Youngs Treatment by Chicago Police,2020-12-25,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) sent a letter to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) requesting that he hold hearings on civil rights abuses perpetrated by police departments across the country with a special focus on the Chicago Police Department. In the letter, Rush wrote: Earlier this year, our nation witnessed a long overdue and unprecedented surge in public cries for racial justice in the aftermath of the tragic murder of several members of the Black community, including Breonna Taylor, an innocent Black woman who was shot dead in her own bed due to errors committed by police. While we are fortunate that Ms. Young was not killed in this case, her treatment is, nonetheless, demoralizing and the trauma she, and people across the country, feels is equally raw. Since the founding of the American colonies, Black women have been treated as subhuman and subjugated to cruel and coldblooded treatment by those in power. That this occurred in this day and age and that there seems to be a concerted effort to cover this up is both outrageous and infuriating. This is even more true given that this heinous act was perpetrated by the Chicago Police Department, the very same department that is responsible for the murder of Laquan McDonald and that attempted to cover up the circumstances surrounding his death. The very same department that, in 1969, orchestrated the murder of Fred Hampton and attempted to cover up that act of barbarism as well. While I wish we could look at our history and note how far we have come, it is clear that is not the case. Therefore, I urge you to convene the Committee on the Judiciary in a hearing to look at civil rights abuses perpetrated by police departments across the country and the Chicago Police Department, in particular. Rush has been a longtime advocate of policing reforms and, in this Congress, introduced legislation to require federal law enforcement officers to be licensed and to encourage states to enact a similar requirement. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-calls-airbnb-amend-its-cancellation-policy-travelers,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Calls On Airbnb To Amend Its Cancellation Policy For Travelers Impacted By COVID-19 Restrictions,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08) sent a letter to the CEO of Airbnb, Brian Chesky, detailing instances of travelers impacted by COVID-19 restrictions and not receiving refunds when cancelling their reservations. To protect customers, companies like Airbnb have a responsibility during this pandemic to accommodate travel changes and not place the burden on customers or hosts for taking COVID-19 precautions. Travelers should not be financially penalized for changing restrictions and quarantine policies, wrote Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. Airbnb should, among other things, revise its extenuating circumstances policy to include health advisories and quarantines' to take the burden off customers and to emphasize the importance of these advisories. Airbnb must acknowledge that extreme circumstances, such as the COVID-19 Pandemic, warrant more flexibility for their customers who choose not to travel due to this public health crisis. This requires a swift change in company policy as the Airbnb extenuating circumstances policy does not cover health advisories and quarantines. Airbnb should be a corporate leader in this regard; however, their current policy and unwillingness to offer refunds has caused unfair financial burdens during a time of severe economic hardship for millions of Americans. The letter can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-condemns-ceo-purdue-pharma-lp-still-receiving-3,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Condemns CEO of Purdue Pharma L.P. Still Receiving $3 Million Bonus After The Company Pleaded Guilty To Three Felony Counts,2020-12-23,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08) expressed strong disappointment that Dr. Craig Landau, President and CEO of Purdue Pharma L.P., told lawmakers during a recent hearing that he intends to a keep a nearly $3 million bonus he is set to receive between now and March 2021. Purdue is the maker of the highly addictive painkiller OxyContin, the aggressive and illegal marketing of which ushered in the nationwide opioid crisis. The notion that Dr. Landau should be rewarded with a nearly $3 million bonus, on top of his base salary of $2.6 million, after years of criminal activity on the part of Purdue and half a million opioid-related deaths since 1999, is simply outrageous, said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. The court overseeing Purdue's bankruptcy case should not permit Dr. Landau to receive this bonus nor should Dr. Landau be willing to accept it. Anything less than a full forfeiture would be an insult to the families who lost loved ones to the depravity of the executives and owners of Purdue Pharma. During the same hearing, Dr. Landau said he did not feel responsible for the 450,000 opioid-related deaths that occurred between 1999, the year he joined Purdue, and 2018. Rep. Krishnamoorthi: At that time, you made a 2009 presentation in September of that year with your consultants at the FDA, and in that presentation you said, in this slide, Who at Purdue takes responsibility for all these deaths? referring to opioid deaths. And the answer: We all feel responsible. Now Dr. Landau, I presume that when you refer to we, that includes you, correct? Dr. Landau: With respect, Representative, that wasn't a slide that was presented, and actually it was not a final slide, it was material in preparation for a Rep. Krishnamoorthi: So you don't feel responsible, is that what you're saying? Dr. Landau: Absolutely not, is what I'm saying. Last month, Purdue Pharma pleaded guilty in federal court to three felonies that, together, spanned the time period of May 2007 to at least March 2017. Those felonies were one count of dual-object conspiracy to defraud the United States and to violate the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and two counts of conspiracy to violate the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute. In 2007, the Purdue Frederick Company, the parent company of Purdue Pharma, pleaded guilty in federal court to a felony charge of misbranding of Oxycontin. Three of Purdue's top executives the CEO, general counsel, and former chief medical officer pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of misbranding Oxycontin. Dr. Landau first joined Purdue Pharma in 1999 and has been continuously employed by the company and its various operations ever since.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/audio-bustos-helps-pass-historic-package-including-900-billion-to-deliver-pandemic-relief-and-1-4-trillion-bill-to-fund-federal-government/,AUDIO: Bustos Helps Pass Historic Package including $900 Billion to Deliver Pandemic Relief and $1.4 Trillion Bill to Fund Federal Government,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bill includes critical Bustos wins for government oversight, public and mental health, defense and rural communities WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17), a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, helped pass a historic package which includes the $900 billion Emergency Coronavirus Relief and $1.4 trillion Omnibus Appropriations bill to help Illinois families and communities continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and secure necessary funding for fiscal year 2021. LISTEN: Congresswoman Bustos speaks about the bipartisan historic package. Help is on the way. Today's relief package will deliver critical support for our efforts to defeat this virus. From direct payments to the American people to funding for vaccine distribution to desperately needed unemployment insurance, this historic legislation is a significant and necessary step forward, said Congresswoman Bustos. But let's be clear we have more work to do. Regions of our Congressional District like Peoria and Rockford still need assistance to avoid layoffs and keep necessary city services like garbage pickup and snow removal. Additional support will be needed for a strong national testing and tracing strategy to be implemented under President-elect Biden. Our families and small businesses will need more help as we continue to navigate the pandemic. Today, we will work to deliver relief, and tomorrow we will continue to fight to make sure the health and well-being of Illinois families is at the heart of our next steps forward. This package also includes significant investments in communities across our nation and state. At a time when support for food security, safe communities, our veterans and service members, schools and secure housing is all critical, today's package puts Illinoisans and Americans first and funds our federal government for the fiscal year. The vote I cast today in support of this appropriations legislation is a vote for the critical programs that our country needs to begin to rebuild better. Emergency Coronavirus Relief The package contains $900 billion in emergency coronavirus relief to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people. Provisions for COVID-19 relief include: Support to accelerate vaccine distribution: Billions to accelerate the free and equitable distribution of safe vaccines to as many Americans as possible as quickly as possible. Includes support for a strong national testing and tracing strategy. End to surprise medical billing: Legislation that will end surprise medical billing for emergency and scheduled care, ensuring that Illinoisans aren't left with sticker shock when they visit the doctor. Strong support for small business: More than $284 billion for forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and critical policy changes to the program including:Expanded PPP eligibility for nonprofitsExpanded eligibility for local newspapers, TV and radio broadcastersKey modifications to target help to the smallest businesses and struggling non-profits and better assist independent restaurants$15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters and cultural institutions$20 billion for targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Grants, critical to many smaller businessesFunding set aside for the smallest businesses and lenders through community-based lenders like Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs)$9 billion in emergency U.S. Treasury investments and $3 billion in emergency support to help low-income and underserved communities, including those that may be disproportionately impacted by the economic effects of the COVID19 pandemic Rental assistance: $25 billion in critically-needed rental assistance for families struggling to stay in their homes and an extension of the eviction moratorium. Direct payment checks: Democrats secured a new round of direct payments worth up to $600 per adult and child. Strengthened Earned Income Tax Credit & Child Tax Credit: Families who faced unemployment or reduced wages during the pandemic will be able to receive a strong tax credit based on their 2019 income. Enhanced Unemployment Insurance benefits: Americans out of work will receive a $300 per week in unemployment insurance enhancement. Nutrition assistance for hungry families: $13 billion in increased SNAP and child nutrition benefits. Support for education and child care: $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools, including funding to help reopen classrooms and $10 billion for child care assistance to keep the doors of child care centers open so parents can get back to work. Investment in increased broadband access: $7 billion for increased broadband access, including a new Emergency Broadband Benefit to help millions of students, families and unemployed workers afford the broadband they need during the pandemic. Omnibus Bill to Fund the Federal Government The Omnibus includes all 12 Appropriations packages previously passed by the House which will fund the federal government through the end of the fiscal year. The legislation includes significant Bustos wins: Bustos secures first-of-its-kind Social Determinants pilot program and inter-agency council: Included in the package is a first-of-its-kind $3 million pilot program, modeled after Congresswoman Bustos' Social Determinants Accelerator Act, as part of the spending bill. This new program will help local governments create plans to empower local communities to fight the social factors that harm long-term health, such as health care provider shortages, food deserts, unsafe and insecure housing and other environmental factors. After news broke this June that the Administration had been sending stimulus checks to deceased people, Congresswoman Bustos continued to advocate for federal agencies to share data in order to avoid wasteful spending. A compromise version of this legislation passed as part of this year-end package. Bustos Passes Legislation to Address Mental Health Amidst Pandemic: Mental health struggles have reached epidemic levels in the midst of pandemic-related shutdowns. Earlier this year, Congresswoman Bustos introduced the Crisis Care Improvement and Suicide Prevention Act to help states upgrade crisis care programs and strategies. This legislation was passed as part of this year-end package and would direct states to utilize five percent of their Mental Health Block Grant for crisis care services. Bustos Passes PARTT 147 Legislation to Update Aviation Maintenance Training: Included in this package are provisions from Congresswoman Bustos and Senator Tammy Duckworth's bipartisan Promoting Aviation Regulations for Technical Training (PARTT) 147 Act to update the decades-old federal regulations for training aviation maintenance workers and make sure those regulations align with work that more accurately reflects what is actually done on the job. Bustos Fights for Rural Communities and Agriculture: The legislation includes an increase in funding for agricultural research of $3.3 billion, following Congresswoman Bustos' advocacy for support for agricultural programs. It also includes more than $2 billion for Rural Water and Wastewater Program loans and grants, and $635 million for the ReConnect program to invest in rural broadband. Robust funding for national defense programs like those in Peoria, Rockford and the Quad Cities:A $1.5 million to fund a pilot program for Online Real Estate Inventory Tools to catalog unused military real estate, similar to Zillow.com.More than $259 million in support for upgrades to C-130H aircraft, like those flown at the Peoria Air National Guard BaseMore than $165 million in funding to support programs such as those at the Rock Island Arsenal, including large-scale additive manufacturing prototyping, soft recoil artillery systems, lightweight body armor mechanisms, and work at the Arsenal to manufacture a modern variant of the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) that makes the field repair of battle-damaged vehicles more effective.$5 million for research into low spool generator capabilities, to make next-generation fighters more efficient and powerful. Much of this research takes place in Rockford, Illinois. The Omnibus bill also: Supports food security: Robust investments in WIC, child nutrition programs, and SNAP. Supports programs that keep our communities safe: $3.3 billion for state and local preparedness grants, training and exercises. Supports servicemembers and military families: increases funding for programs directly impacting the quality of life for servicemembers, their families, and military communities, and fully funds the 3.0 percent military pay raise. Honors our veterans: provides $90 billion for VA medical care, including funding to provide homelessness assistance, suicide prevention and outreach. Combats climate change and protects our environment: $9.24 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency the highest level of funding in ten years to ensure clean air and water and to hold polluters accountable. The bill also includes additional funding for energy innovation, efficiency and renewable energy, and support for the development of clean, affordable and secure energy and a resilient electric grid. Provides pathways to better schools: $16.5 billion for Education for the Disadvantaged Grants to Local Educational Agencies and $12.9 billion for IDEA Special Education Grants to States. Expands access to housing: $43.4 million in new, targeted vouchers to reduce homelessness among families with children, individuals, the unsheltered, veterans, and survivors of domestic violence. The legislation is expected to be voted on by the Senate before heading to the President's desk for signature. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-duckworth-durbin-secure-millions-for-improvements-at-rock-island-arsenal/,"Bustos, Duckworth, Durbin Secure Millions for Improvements at Rock Island Arsenal",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"[WASHINGTON, D.C.] Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17), along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL), today announced that $120 million in funding for the Rock Island Arsenal (RIA) was included in the bipartisan funding agreement that passed the House and Senate and will be signed into law. This funding will provide the Army with necessary mobile maintenance capacity and boost manufacturing capability at RIA. It will be split with AM General, an automotive manufacturer that builds military and commercial vehicles. The Rock Island Arsenal has long played a key role in our nation's defense efforts, and in the wake of the pandemic has become even more critical to our region, said Bustos, a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. I was proud to work with Senators Durbin and Duckworth to help secure this funding to ensure the important work converting Humvees for use in the field continues. This money will make sure the Rock Island Arsenal has the resources it needs. Rock Island Arsenal plays an important role in our national security and I'm pleased that this bipartisan agreement provides funding that will support jobs, manufacturing and the modernization of military equipment, said Duckworth. I'll keep working with Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Bustos to ensure the long term success of the Rock Island Arsenal. These funds will provide additional work at the Rock Island Arsenal, ensuring Humvees have the maintenance shelters they require. I was proud to work with Senator Duckworth and Representative Bustos to secure this federal funding that supports the men and women at the Arsenal, Durbin said. Earlier this year, Duckworth, Durbin and Bustos joined U.S. Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy to tour the Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence at the Rock Island Arsenal's Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center to discuss its efforts to combat COVID-19. The members also sent a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees urging authorization for the United States Army to launch a pilot program that certain users could access for details about Army real estate, which could encourage a fresh influx of talent and opportunity into Army installations like the Rock Island Arsenal. This was also included in the legislation passed by Congress yesterday. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/warren-blumenthal-durbin-krishnamoorthi-and-degette-question-tobacco-companies,"Warren, Blumenthal, Durbin, Krishnamoorthi and DeGette Question Tobacco Companies Exploitative e-Cigarette Advertisements During the COVID-19 Pandemic",2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC -After arecent studyby public health experts at Stanford University revealed that numerous tobacco companies - including several subsidiaries of British American Tobacco (BAT) and Philip Morris International (PMI) - have ""chosen to exploit a global pandemic for marketing purposes,"" United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) along with Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Chair of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform's Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, and Congresswoman Dianna DeGette (D-Colo.), Chair of the House Energy & Commerce Committee's Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee, sent letters to BAT, PMI, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) questioning the tobacco companies' exploitation of the COVID-19 pandemic to market their e-cigarette products using abusive and misleading tactics aimed at youths and adolescents, and seeking information on the enforcement actions taken by the agencies to regulate these advertisements. Since the beginning of the pandemic, several subsidiaries of tobacco and e-cigarette companies BAT and PMI have taken advantage of the ongoing public health emergency to promote the sale of their products. The research conducted by a group of public health experts at Stanford found that in over 300 COVID-themed e-cigarette advertisements, several companies offered essential supplies such as hand sanitizer, face masks, toilet paper, and other materials in short supply as free gifts with the purchase of a vaping product to increase revenue. Some even falsely claimed that vaping is not associated with an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Moreover, these companies appear to have specifically targeted underage users, placing the vast majority of advertisements on Instagram and Twitter, a potential violation of federal law. This is particularly concerning given individuals with a history of chronic respiratory illness such as asthma, as well as individuals that smoke or use e-cigarettes, are at greater risk for suffering more severe symptoms of COVID-19. ""These advertisements are a blatant exploitation of a pandemic that has killed nearly two million people across the world and devastated the lives of countless more. They are reckless and endanger millions, especially as countries around the globe are experiencing yet another surge in cases,""the lawmakers wrote in their letters. ""This attempt to profit off the back of a global health crisis, reminiscent of decades of false and misleading advertising about cigarettes by tobacco companies, represents a callous indifference to the lives and well-being of millions of people across the world,""the lawmakers continue. In order to better understand BAT and PMI's abusive promotional activities, the lawmakers requested copies of the company's advertisements, a list of subsidiaries that distribute their products, internal documents discussing the company's COVID-19 advertisement practices, and any communications with federal public health officials regarding the content of these advertisements. Together, the FDA and the FTC are responsible for the oversight and regulation of unfair, deceptive, and potentially harmful advertisements. In the letter to FTC and FDA, the lawmakers request a staff-level briefing as well as information regarding the agencies' enforcement authority related to e-cigarette advertisement and promotional activities, whether the agencies have received complaints regarding of e-cigarette or vaping products during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to what extent the agencies have communicated with e-cigarette manufacturers regarding their promotional activities during the pandemic. Senator Warren has worked with her colleagues in Congress to urge federal regulators and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) companies, like JUUL Labs, to combat the growing public health crisis of vaping-related illnesses and the epidemic of youth tobacco use and to hold regulators and e-cigarette companies accountable. Her ongoing oversight work includes: Urgingthe Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to move immediately and aggressively to review e-cigarette products and take action to protect children and the public's health. Writing to the CEO of JUULraising concerns aboutthe company's partnership with Big Tobacco giant Altria, and questioning its marketing tactics to hook children on nicotine with kid-appealing flavors. Writingto the FDA regarding reports that e-cigarette use may be correlated to the occurrence of seizures, and urging the agency to swiftly conduct a public health review of e-cigarettes. Sendinga letter to Acting FDA Commissioner Norman Sharpless recognizing the ten-year anniversary of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act -- legislation that gave FDA sweeping authority to regulate the manufacturing, distribution, and marketing of all tobacco products -- and urging the FDA to act quickly and decisively to protect kids from dangerous tobacco products. Calling on companies such aseBay,Alibaba, andCraigslistto crack down on listings for e-cigarettes and vaping products on their marketplace that provide youth an avenue to purchase these items without any age verification. Demanding answersfrom the heads of the FDA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on their actions to address the health impacts of e-cigarette products, as illnesses and even deaths are increasingly linked to vaping. Requestingthat Senate Appropriators include a $100 million investment in the final, bipartisan appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2020 to boost public health data infrastructure as the nation's public health system struggles to adequately monitor and address the ongoing outbreak of vaping-related illnesses. UrgingHHS to take long-overdue steps to stop the youth e-cigarette epidemic. Writing toJUUL LabsandAltriaregarding their companies' role in fueling the youth vaping epidemic and probing the recent corporate marriage of JUUL--the most popular e-cigarette product among children-- with Altria, a large manufacturer of traditional tobacco products, including Marlboro cigarettes and Black & Mild cigars. Letter to BAT (PDF)|Letter to PMI (PDF)|Letter to FDA & FTC (PDF)",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6573,House Passes COVID Relief Legislation Crafted by House Problem Solvers Caucus - Includes Key Contributions Led and Authored by Congressman Lipinski,2020-12-22,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congress passed long awaited COVID-19 relief legislation. As a member of the House Problem Solvers Caucus, Congressman Lipinski joined with colleagues on both sides of the aisle and with a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators to craft a COVID-19 relief bill that jumpstarted negotiations and produced an agreement to deliver much needed relief to the American people. The bill passed today includes an extension of the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses and federal unemployment benefits, along with funding for transportation, public and private K-12 schools, higher education, and other priorities championed by Congressman Lipinski. Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have been working to find solutions in areas of need for the Third District of Illinois and the country, said Congressman Lipinski. There is still important work to be done, but I am proud to have been a part of the bipartisan group that crafted most of this legislation and that several provisions I have fought for made it into the final bill. As a former teacher I am especially proud that America's educational institutions will receive desperately needed federal support and resources. This bill also secures vital funding to support public transit, Amtrak, and other essential transportation that my constituents rely upon. The bipartisan package passed by the House today includes several provisions championed by Congressman Lipinski to support our nation's students, educators, and schools. Congressman Lipinski has worked to ensure all students, including the 6 million students who attend private schools, are able to access a safe and secure education. Highlights of the COVID-19 relief provisions include: Approximately $60 billion for public health measures including vaccine development, procurement and distribution, as well as COVID-19 testing and contact tracing programs. An 11-week extension of unemployment benefits. An additional $284 billion for PPP loans to eligible small businesses. This legislation also allows for additional flexibility in use of loans, and corrects problems with the tax treatment of forgiven loans, while ensuring that small businesses with 300 or fewer employees and a decline of at least 25% in gross receipts are eligible to apply for a second forgivable loan. Critical support for our transportation workers and services, including $14 billion to support transit agencies like CTA, Metra and Pace, $1 billion to support intercity passenger rail at Amtrak, and an additional $15 billion for the Aviation Payroll Support Program to prevent layoffs and harmful long term cuts in the airline industry. Another round of stimulus checks worth up to $600 per adult and child, depending on income levels. I know how essential this legislation is to helping our P-12 and higher education institutions safely operate, said Congressman Lipinski. Today's bipartisan agreement prioritizes our most vulnerable students and allows more young people to pursue higher education. By investing in our students and education system, we will help our nation's economy recover and our communities will benefit for years to come. The legislation includes several crucial education-related provisions championed by Congressman Lipinski including: $2.75 billion in dedicated relief funding for K-12 non-public schools to address coronavirus related expenses such as educational technology for remote or hybrid instruction, personal protective equipment, and expanding capacity for coronavirus testing. $22.9 billion in emergency relief funding for students and institutions of higher education, including support for the transition to distance education and financial aid grants to students for tuition, food, housing, and health care. $54.9 billion to help public schools reopen and respond to the coronavirus, including support for HVAC repair to mitigate virus transmission and reopen classrooms. Simplifying the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) so that more students can access a quality college education. A summary of the COVID-19 relief provisions of the Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-votes-covid-19-relief-bill,BOST VOTES FOR COVID-19 RELIEF BILL,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted in support of end-of-year government funding and COVID-19 relief legislationto provide working Americans, small businesses, and frontline workers relief from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bipartisan and bicameral bill includes funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, vaccine and testing funding, and $600 direct payments for adults and dependents. Had Speaker Pelosi put the needs of the American public above her own partisan agenda, we could have saved countless jobs and businesses months ago, said Bost. While it shouldn't have taken until the 11th hour, I am thankful that help is on the way. Hardworking Southern Illinois families, healthcare and frontline workers, and small businesses, through no fault of their own, have been devastated by COVID-19 shutdowns. This legislation will provide desperately needed relief to millions of Americans this holiday season and, combined with the successes of Operation Warp Speed, gives us hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Important Provisions in the Bipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus & COVID Relief Deal Makes updates to the Paycheck Protection Program to allow businesses to apply for a second PPP loan, allow churches and faith-based organizations to apply for loans, and allow businesses to utilize PPP funds in addition to standard business tax deductions Includes $20 billion of funding to ensure Americans can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to them, $8 billion for vaccine distribution, and $20 billion for continued testing efforts. $600 stimulus checks for adults and dependents Extends unemployment benefits by an additional $300 per week for 10 weeks $10 billion for childcare centers and $82 billion for schools to help them safely reopen for in-person learning $13 billion for farmers and producers impacted by COVID-19, including funding for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program $7 billion for broadband funding $4 billion for substance abuse programs ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://davis.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=25&itemid=1398,CHAIRMAN DAVIS AND RANKING MEMBER WALORSKI APPLAUD THE INCLUSION OF FOSTER YOUTH GRANTS IN OMNIBUS RELIEF BILL,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Danny Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,,,legacy,"PRESS RELEASE Monday, December 21, 2020 CHAIRMAN DAVIS AND RANKING MEMBER WALORSKI APPLAUD THE INCLUSION OF THE SUPPORTINGFOSTER YOUTH & FAMILIES THROUGH THE PANDEMIC ACTIN THE OMNIBUS AND CORONAVIRUS RELIEF BILL WASHINGTON, DC Subcommittee Chairman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) and Subcommittee Ranking Member Jackie Walorski (R-IN) of the House Committee on Ways & Means' Subcommittee on Worker & Family Support applaud the inclusion of Supporting Foster Youth & Families through the Pandemic Act(H.R. 7947) in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. While the COVID-19 pandemic presents difficulties for all Americans, foster youth are particularly subject to instability given that they are typically without reliable adults and other supports in their lives. We know that nearly 20,000 youth age out of foster care each year, and youth who aged out of care during this national emergency have reported high rates of homelessness, food and economic insecurity, and are at risk of contracting and spreading the coronavirus. As a direct response to the COVID-19 crisis, Chairman Davis and Ranking Member Walorski introduced the bipartisan H.R. 7947 to provide emergency temporary supports and flexibilities for older foster youth, grandparents raising grandchildren & other kinship families, home visiting for at-risk pregnant & parenting families, foster care prevention services, and other child welfare services through the end of FY 2021. Upon confirmation of inclusion in the legislative package, Chairman Davis said, I am especially proud of this bipartisan legislation, which will provide the necessary emergency resources and supports that foster youth and families need to weather this storm. This bill was crafted in direct response to what foster youth in our communities have been telling us they need, right now, in order to be okay during the pandemic. This is a major victory for some of America's most vulnerable children and families, who will have additional support to get through the coronavirus crisis and build a stronger, more stable future, Ranking Member Walorski said. Foster youth and families, at-risk pregnant women and mothers, and kinship caregivers such as grandparents raising grandchildren already face unique challenges in normal times. The pandemic has only added to the obstacles they must overcome to achieve the American Dream but help will soon be on the way. I'm grateful to Chairman Davis for his partnership in building on past reforms with this targeted relief to help families thrive. Supporting Foster Youth & Families through the Pandemic Act(H.R. 7947) has been endorsed by hundreds of national, state, and local organizations, including organizations representing current and former foster youth. The provisions are located in Division X of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 the section-by-section summary of which can be foundHERE. A fact sheet on H.R. 7947 is availableHERE. A list of groups that have endorsed H.R. 7947 can be foundHERE. ### Congressman Davis is the Chairman of the Worker and Family Support Subcommittee on the House Ways and Means Committee",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-bipartisan-solar-caucus-applauds-clean-energy-inclusion-omnibus,Congressional Bipartisan Solar Caucus Applauds Clean Energy Inclusion In Omnibus Spending Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Congressman Ralph Norman, co-chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Solar Caucus, applauded the inclusion of clean energy and solar provisions in the end of the year omnibus spending bill. Not only do these provisions endorse a switch towards reducing emissions, but they support the 3.3 million Americans employed in the clean energy sector. Solar energy has been the bellwether for the clean energy industry, and it's critical that we continue to work towards growing the middle class, securing energy independence and lowering our carbon emissions, said Congressman Krishnamoorthi and Congressman Norman. This critical package includes the reauthorization of the Department of Energy's solar energy research and development activities, including research on photovoltaic, heating and cooling, and concentrating solar energy systems, grid integration, and photovoltaic recycling. In addition, the package would establish a solar energy technology materials database and an advanced solar manufacturing initiative to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities.Correspondingly, it improves interagency cooperation for permits on federal land and keeps costs competitive for solar, wind, and geothermal permits on federal land. Lastly, it contains the Department of Energy Veterans' Health Initiative Act, authored by co-chair Rep. Norman, which authorizes a research partnership between the Department of Energy and the Department of Veterans Affairs to solve the big data challenges to veterans' health care and basic science. The bipartisan omnibus provides essential measures needed to improve clean energy technologies, such as solar, to expand access and affordability for all Americans. Growing our economy and reducing our emissions are not competing interests. Together, these two interests can work as one to build a stronger and more resilient economy for the 21st century.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-raja-krishnamoorthi-recognized-his-leadership-improving,Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Recognized For His Leadership Improving Postsecondary Education,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been named one of the newest Moneyball for Government All-Stars for his work as a lead sponsor of the bipartisan College Transparency Act (CTA). The CTA would amend the existing college reporting system by establishing a privacy-protected postsecondary data system at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), which would collect and report on student outcomes such as enrollment, completion, and post-college success to help prospective students determine which programs of study efficiently support their career aspirations. The College Transparency Act has broad bipartisan, bicameral support. It has been cosponsored by 234 representatives (151 Democrats and 83 Republicans), and it has 37 cosponsors in the Senate (20 Republicans and 17 Democrats). The legislation also has the support of over 200 civil rights, youth, business, veterans, education, and workforce development organizations. I am honored to be recognized by Moneyball for Government for fighting for improved outcomes for American families, an improved education system and workforce through providing data to make informed decisions, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. Preparing students of all ages for the economy of the future is critical to growing and strengthening the middle class and I'm glad to work with these leading advocates to do it.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lahood-supports-covid-19-relief-bill,Rep. LaHood Supports COVID-19 Relief Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) voted this evening in favor of the Bipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus and COVID Relief Bill. The bill includes approximately $900 billion in COVID-19 aid. After the vote, Rep. LaHood released the following statement: ""As I traveled across the 18th Congressional District of Illinois in recent months, I heard from businesses on the brink of shutting down for good because of Governor Pritzker's state-mandated closures, workers who still cannot access Illinois' unemployment system, and health care workers who need additional support to care for COVID-19 patients. This bipartisan agreement includes important provisions to extend the Paycheck Protection Program, expand vaccine distribution, reopen our schools, and increase rural broadband access. No compromise is perfect, but this bipartisan bill will provide critical support to families, workers, small businesses, and our frontline health care heroes in Illinois. ""I continue to hold real concerns about the massive amount of deficitspending we are piling up and Congress' yearly inability to work in regular order to fund our government. While Congress needs to act to provide COVID-19 relief, if we continue this spending pattern unchecked, the burden left on our children and their children will be unbearable. ""As we head into the new year, the health and economic impact of COVID-19 will continue to present our nation with serious challenges. This bill will provide important relief to those in need and resources to support key programs in Illinois. It is essential that the Governor, the General Assembly, and local elected officials in Illinois also work swiftly to allow businesses to safely reopen, get our kids back in the classroom, and alleviate the issues so many of my constituentscontinue to have with Illinois' unemployment system."" Bipartisan-Bicameral Omnibus & COVID Relief Deal Key COVID-19 provisions in the legislation include: Extends the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and adds deductibility for PPP expenses Gives businesses experiencing severe revenue reductions an opportunity to apply for a second draw PPP loan $20 billion for purchase of vaccines that will make the vaccine available at no charge for anyone who needs it $8 billion for vaccine distribution $20 billion to assist states with testing $600 for both adults and dependents with safeguards to prohibit illegal aliens from receiving payment $82 billion in funding for schools and universities to assist with reopening for in-person learning $300 million to build out rural broadband $250 million for telehealth $13 billion to support our farmers and agriculture industry Key provisions that Rep. LaHood introduced or advocated for: Paycheck Protection Program deductibility, which Rep. LaHoodcalled for earlier this month CERTS Act- $2 billion included in CERTS funding for the moto-coach industry, which Rep. LaHood is the lead sponsor H.R. 5952 - SNF Hemophilia Access Act, which Rep. LaHood is the lead sponsor $15 billion in funding for the Payroll Support Program for airlines, which will support 18th District airports Allows FSA/DCFSA users to rollover unused dollars into 2021, which Rep. LaHoodcalled for in May Ends surprise medical billing, bytaking patients out of the middle with no government rate setting and giving true and honest cost estimate for patients three days prior to scheduled procedure, which are key priorities for Ways and Means Republicans Improves support for unique rural health care needs suggested by the Rural and Underserved Task Force, of which Rep. LaHood is a member Includes responsible reforms to what are commonly known as tax extenders, including making the Craft Beverage and Short Line Rail tax credits permanent. Allocates $55 million for airport control towers, which will benefit needed airport tower upgrades at 18th District airports H.R. 7947 - Supporting Foster Youth and Families through the Pandemic Act, which provides temporary additional funding to support older foster youth, kin caregivers, at-risk families, state courts, adoptive families, and foster care prevention services, and allows older youth to remain in foster care during the pandemic. For additional information on key items included in this legislation and COVID-19 relief, visit the Ways and Means Republicans websiteHERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6574,House Votes to Pass Bipartisan Omnibus Appropriations and Legislative Package with Multiple Provisions Championed by Rep. Lipinski,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, the House of Representatives passed major legislation that will fund the federal government for the rest of Fiscal Year 2021. The Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 133) invests in important priorities led by Congressman Lipinski, including support for higher education, funds to protect the environment, funding for essential transportation services, investments in clean energy and science programs, and key social science programs at the Department of Defense. This legislation is the culmination of over a year of hard work and diligent, bipartisan compromise to fund federal government programs through September 30, 2021 said Congressman Lipinski. I am proud to see many provisions that I fought for contained in this package. These appropriations will have a positive impact on the lives of those living in Illinois's Third Congressional District and across the country. Funding for the National Institutes of Health, innovative energy research, funding for universities, and investments in our local infrastructure will create opportunities for new jobs, lower energy costs, and help guard against future pandemics. I have made it my mission every year to fight for the needs of Illinois's 3rd Congressional District. and I am pleased this year's appropriations bills reflect many of the priorities of our community. Federal appropriations highlights impacting Illinois's 3rd Congressional District and championed by Lipinski include: A provision authored by Congressman Lipinski emphasizes the importance of the Bubbly Creek project and directs the Army Corps of Engineers to brief the Appropriations Committee on the status of the project moving forward. $2 billion for Amtrak to continue important rail service and make capital investments to improve intercity passenger rail. Also contains provisions preventing Amtrak from furloughing workers or ending long distance service. $2.0 billion for the Capital Investment Grants Program and $375 million for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Program to invest in rail infrastructure including for Metra. $400 million for discretionary Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants to invest in airport infrastructure at airports like O'Hare, Midway, and Lewis airports. An increase of $180 million for the Environmental Protection Agency to help bolster EPA Region 5 staffing to protect the Great Lakes and address other important environmental issues in the Midwest. Congressman Lipinski spearheaded this push to address long standing staffing concerns in Region 5 that undermine the EPA's ability to protect the environment in Chicago, including ETO concerns. Increased funding at Argonne National Laboratory to keep the facility a world leader in cutting edge research, including $160 million for the Advanced Photon Source upgrade and at least $150 million for the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility, which will be home to Aurora, the first exascale supercomputer. Congressman Lipinski has consistently championed efforts to ensure robust funding for these two programs. Restoration of $17 million in funding for the Department of Defense's Minerva Research Initiative, which supports social science research on topics that bolster our national security policy. Congressman Lipinski led the effort to reverse cuts to this program. $40 million for the National Security Innovation Network, which administers the Hacking for Defense program to foster entrepreneurship skills at universities to solve national security problems. A provision authored by Congressman Lipinski directs the Department of Energy to conduct research, development, and demonstration projects into direct-use geothermal energy and heat pumps. An increase of $1.25 billion and a record funding level of $42.9 billion for the National Institutes of Health to create new and innovative treatments for a range of diseases and prevent future pandemics. Congressman Lipinski co-signed a letter to Appropriations Committee requesting strong funding for the institutes. $427 million for ARPA-E to help advance new and innovative energy technologies and $7.026 billion for the Office of Science to fund basic science research in physics, biology, chemistry, and other science disciplines. $12.5 million for gun violence research, including crime prevention. Congressman Lipinski made a request to the Appropriations Committee requesting robust funding on this matter. $12.9 billion for the education of children with disabilities. Congressman Lipinski made a request to the Appropriations Committee requesting the funding. A summary of the FY2021 appropriations provisions of the Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of 2020 is available here. Additional Priorities Beyond the critical government funding and COVID-19 relief provisions, this legislation also advances good, bipartisan priorities that Congressman Lipinski has been engaged on during his time in Congress. This legislation includes consumer protections and tax provisions that will provide relief, certainty and stability to consumers, small businesses, and others said Congressman Lipinski. The ban on surprise medical bills is an important achievement because too many American families have faced eye-popping bills after unknowingly being treated by providers outside their healthcare network, said Congressman Lipinski. I have been working for years to put an end to this practice. While today's fix is not perfect, it is an important step in the right direction and will prevent most patients from receiving unexpected bills after their care. Bipartisan policy priorities advanced by this legislation include: A ban on most surprise medical bills that arise when patients are unexpectedly treated by out-of-network healthcare providers. While the surprise billing agreement is not perfect, it will help protect consumers from large medical bills. A multi-year extension of important health research and treatment programs. This includes the Special Diabetes Program, which supports research on Type 1 diabetes at the National Institutes of Health, and the community health center program which provides primary care to underserved populations nationwide. A national awareness campaign promoting the safety and effectiveness of vaccines as a disease control measure. New reporting and public awareness requirements related to corrupt practices of Chinese Communist Party officials and Eastern European oligarchs. Makes permanent a tax benefit for volunteer first responders that collect limited benefits or reimbursement for their services from state or local governments. Permanently extends the Section 45G railroad track maintenance tax credit available to short line and regional railroads.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6575,Chairman Lipinski Accomplishes a Top Priority to Reauthorize and Strengthen U.S. Pipeline Safety Programs,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, the House of Representatives passed the Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety (PIPES) Act of 2020. As the Chair of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, Congressman Lipinski has led bipartisan efforts over the past two years to reauthorize the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) federal pipeline safety programs. Under Lipinski's leadership, these programs have been reauthorized through fiscal year 2023, while ensuring U.S. pipelines are safe, reliable, and minimize their impact on the environment. There are approximately three million miles of pipelines in the United States, including an extraordinary number in the Third District, that transport vital energy products such as oil and natural gas to keep our economy running. The Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee that I chair oversees the federal pipeline safety agency PHMSA, and the safety of our pipeline system, said Congressman Lipinski. One of my top priorities this Congress was reauthorizing critical federal pipeline safety programs to protect the American people. This process became dangerously and unnecessarily tied up in partisan squabbling, but after the longest ever delay in reauthorizing these programs, I am grateful that my colleagues in both chambers heeded my call to come together and pass a robust, compromise bill we can all be proud of and that will improve the safety of our pipeline system while addressing the problem of methane emissions. The reauthorization contains key pipeline policy priorities of Congressman Lipinski including: Requiring PHMSA to update methane detection and methane leak repair regulations within one year to ensure that pipeline operators are using the best available technology to detect and repair methane leaks, a key contributor to climate change. Authorizing the hiring of additional regulatory staff to help PHMSA expeditiously finalize outstanding key safety regulations from the 2011 and 2016 pipeline safety reauthorizations. Providing greater protection to the Great Lakes and other unusually sensitive areas in federal pipeline regulations. Establishing a pilot program to allow pipeline operators to test new pipeline safety technology. The reauthorization also does a number of other things including: Requiring PHMSA to update their Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) regulations, which haven't been updated since the 1970's, to better regulate modern LNG facilities. Clarifying that PHMSA should take into account safety and environmental benefits when calculating the benefits of a potential rulemaking under PHMSA's cost-benefit analysis requirement. Requiring pipeline distribution companies to have better integrity management plans to prevent pipeline accidents in residential communities. Directing PHMSA to finalize ongoing rulemakings on class location change and gathering lines. This legislation was included as Division R in the Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 133).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6576,House Passes First Major Energy Legislation in 13 Years with Lipinski Priorities Included,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, the House of Representatives passed the Energy Act of 2020 as part of the COVID-19 and FY21 appropriations omnibus legislation (HR 133). As a Senior Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and a longtime champion of clean, renewable energy, Congressman Lipinski was proud of several legislative victories in the final version of the bill. Provisions led by Rep. Lipinski included research and development in geothermal heating and research on the health effects of low-dose radiation. Additionally, Rep. Lipinski cosponsored a bill to reauthorize the Advanced Research Projects Agency Energy, or ARPA E, which was included in the final package. Clean energy is essential to addressing the climate crisis and creating new, good-paying American jobs, said Congressman Lipinski. This legislation will allow the Department of Energy, industry leaders, and higher education researchers to collaborate on some of the most pressing areas of concern for our nation. I'm particularly proud to have authored a provision directing DOE to develop new geothermal heating technologies, which will be ideal for producing carbon-free heat in Illinois due to our geology. Key priorities of Congressman Lipinski included in the bill: $35 billion over 10 years for clean energy and carbon capture research and development. $2.9 billion for ARPA-E over five years. Tax credit extensions to incentivize additional solar and wind production. Requires an 85% reduction in the use of hydrofluorocarbons by 2035. Authorizes research on the health effects of low-dose radiation, a provision championed by Congressmen Lipinski and Posey Directs DOE to conduct research, development, and demonstration projects into direct-use geothermal energy and heat pumps, as authored by Congressman Lipinski. The Energy Act of 2020 is the first comprehensive energy legislation passed by Congress since 2007 and includes 14 bipartisan bills that the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee developed and advanced over the course of this Congress. These bills overall advance the research and development of clean energy like wind and solar, seeks to unlock nuclear and fusion power, accelerates the effectiveness and deployment of carbon capture technologies, and reauthorizes the critical ARPA-E agency. Together, these bills will help fight climate change and promote energy independence.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6577,Congressman Lipinski Helps Ensure Important Aviation Safety Reforms Will be Signed into Law,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON The COVID-19 relief and FY21 appropriations legislation (HR 133) passed by the House today includes provisions aimed at improving airline safety in the aftermath of the 2018 and 2019 Boeing 737 MAX plane crashes that tragically claimed the lives of 346 people. As a member of the Aviation Subcommittee of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Congressman Lipinski worked to ensure significant reforms to the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) aircraft certification system that will enhance the safety of air passengers and prevent future tragedies. As I have said from the beginning, something went terribly wrong in the certification of the Boeing 737 MAX plane and the consequences were tragic, said Congressman Lipinski. Today's legislation is the result of two years of investigations, committee meetings, and discussions with groups including the victims' families, aviation safety experts, and other aviation stakeholders. I am proud of the work the members of our committee put in to improve safety for travelers. Key provisions of the legislation include: Instituting significant reforms to the Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) program to reinforce the FAA's oversight role over aviation manufacturers. Ensuring that critical safety systems like MCAS are clearly disclosed and evaluated before a plane is certified to fly. Requiring a system-wide safety assessment for proposed design changes under amended type certificates. Addressing concerns about the revolving door between industry and the FAA by implementing a one-year cooling off period for incoming FAA employees before they can oversee their former employer. The Aircraft Certification Reform and Accountability Act reforms will collectively ensure that the ODA program functions appropriately, that new technologies like MCAS are properly analyzed for their safety, that the cultures at Boeing and FAA embody the right values, and that the FAA is truly an independent regulator. The bill is the result of nearly two years of effort by Congressman Lipinski working with Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio (OR) and Subcommittee Chairman Rick Larsen (WA), and other members of the T&I Committee to get to the bottom of the two Boeing Max crashes and craft legislation to protect American travelers. This legislation follows the ungrounding of the Boeing Max Plane by FAA in November 2020. The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee released its final report on its 18-month investigation into the certification of the Boeing 737 MAX earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6578,House Passes Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Legislation with Important Local Provisions Authored by Congressman Lipinski Including Increased Funding to Protect the Great Lakes from Invasive Asian Carp,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON The House of Representatives passed as part of the COVID-19 and FY21 appropriations omnibus legislation (HR 133), the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020. WRDA authorizes specific Army Corps of Engineers projects and oversees other water infrastructure projects at our ports and inland waterway navigation system. WRDA 2020 authorizes a record 46 new Army Corps of Engineer Projects and 27 new feasibility studies while directing the Corps to make greater use of natural and nature-based projects. The passage of WRDA 2020 follows previous WRDA bills in 2018, 2016, and 2014. I have long championed investing in and improving our inland waterway and port infrastructure. The Illinois Waterway system runs through the heart of the Third District and is vital to regional commerce, said Congressman Lipinski. The Water Resources Development Act of 2020 contains a provision I fought for on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee that provides an 80%, instead of the usual 50%, federal cost share on the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project that will provide further protection against the spread of invasive Asian Carp into Lake Michigan. Key wins for the 3rd Congressional District of Illinois: Authorizes the Brandon Road lock and dam project in Joliet at 80% federal cost share, a higher federal share than normal for a project like this, in order to help prevent the spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes. Authorizes the Bubbly Creek ecosystem restoration project. Directs the Army Corps of Engineers to prioritize completion of a study to fix the eroding Chicago Shoreline. Authorizes a study to develop eco-system restoration projects for the Chicago Area Rivers system. Incorporates more natural infrastructure, including green infrastructure, into the Army Corps of Engineers work to reduce flooding and restore ecosystems in a more sustainable, less costly way. Raises the federal cost share for inland waterways system infrastructure projects from 50% to 65%, to help the Army Corps of Engineers modernize our inland waterways system more quickly and effectively. This change will help expedite the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP), which will make much needed navigation improvements to the locks and dams in Upper Mississippi River System. The full WRDA 2020 bill will authorize the study and construction of dozens of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects that build and maintain inland waterway locks and dams, ports, and other water infrastructure, while also providing flood relief, and restoring damaged ecosystems. Infrastructure projects authorized under the legislation will create good paying jobs. The bill has won the endorsement of both business and labor groups across the country. The Water Resources Development Act of 2020 was included as Division AA in H.R. 133.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-passage-of-federal-omnibus-spending-bill-and-covid,Rush Statement on Passage of Federal Omnibus Spending Bill and COVID Relief Legislation,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) released the following statement subsequent to his vote in support of a legislative package that funds the Federal Government for Fiscal Year 2021 and provides critical additional funding for the response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic: The passage of today's government funding package demonstrates that House Democrats remain committed to delivering much-needed relief to the American people in the wake of the devastation wrought by COVID-19, said Rush. Health Care Provisions Included in the COVID-19 Relief Funding Package I am pleased that the COVID-relief package includes critical provisions to ensure access to physicians, testing, and vaccines, with a particular focus on communities of color. While we need even more, particularly in regard to community-based testing and contact tracing as well as rental assistance, today's legislation will save lives and take critical steps to help the individuals and businesses in my district weather this pandemic. Specifically, the package: Significantly reduces looming cuts to healthcare specialists. Rep. Rush has been an outspoken leader on ensuring that Medicare's scheduled fee increase for the office-based evaluation and management (E/M) code set to take effect in 2021 does not adversely affect other healthcare providers. He led multiple letters to House leadership and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services emphasizing the importance of preventing these cuts in order to protect patients' access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Includes long-term funding for critical public health programs, including Community Health Centers, Teaching Health Centers, the National Health Service Corps, and the Special Diabetes Program. Eliminates Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) payment cuts for safety net hospitals for Fiscal Year 2021 and postpones any additional cuts until Fiscal Year 2024. Rep. Rush has cosponsored legislation, voted on amendments, and sent letters to House leadership to prevent these ill-advised cuts to safety net hospitals. Most recently, he led a letter with members of the Illinois delegation supporting a multi-year delay of Medicaid DSH payment cuts. Provides billions in funding for testing and contact tracing efforts, as well as vaccine purchasing, distribution, and outreach efforts. This includes funding specifically designated for communities of color and other groups who have been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus. Specifically, the legislation includes $22.4 billion for testing, contact tracing, and surveillance, $19 billion for the manufacturing and purchasing of vaccines, therapeutics, and ancillary supplies, and $8.75 billion for distribution, promotion, monitoring, and tracking of the administration of the vaccine, including funding specifically designated for high-risk and underserved populations, such as communities of color. Permanently ends surprise medical bills, by ensuring patients are only responsible for their in-network cost-sharing amounts when they can't choose an in-network provider. Furthermore, the solution preserves access to care by implementing an arbitration system, which will ensure doctors and hospitals will be fairly reimbursed and be able to continue to operate. Rep. Rush tirelessly advocated for this solution, as it is in the best interest of both patients and doctors in Illinois. Reauthorizes the School Based Health Center Program. Rep. Rush has cosponsored legislation and included this program as one of his top priorities. He understands the importance of ensuring the health infrastructure is there to provide care to students, since consistent access to medical care can reduce the racial health gap that has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Includes a long-overdue fix to ensure access to colorectal cancer screenings for Medicare patients. Rep. Rush joined his colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus to ask House and Senate leadership for the inclusion of this language in this package. Permanently covers mental health telehealth services under Medicare. Rep. Rush has cosponsored numerous bills to ensure access of telehealth services both for the length of this pandemic and as a permanent provision to increase access to care for seniors in their homes. Decreases costs for those on Medicaid to participate in clinical trials by requiring state Medicaid programs to pay for the cost of services provided as part of participating in a clinical trial. Currently, only a fraction of patients who currently participate in clinical trials come from underserved or minority populations with socioeconomic disadvantages. This lack of access is a double-edged sword: African-Americans are simultaneously unable to receive access to advanced clinical trials for medicine that could save their lives and once the drugs are approved, researchers and physicians have no way of knowing how they will interact with African-American bodies. Rep. Rush is a proud cosponsor of legislation, which this provision is based on, to remove this barrier. Creates a grant program to expand the use of technology-enabled collaborative learning and capacity-building models to increase access to specialized health care services in medically underserved areas and for medically underserved populations. Rep. Rush is a proud cosponsor of the legislation that this provision is based on. Allocates $10 billion for Child Care and Development Block Grants to provide immediate assistance to childcare providers. Delivers Vital Economic Relief to Americans Effected by the COVID-19 Pandemic The measure passed by the House today takes the critical step of restoring the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation supplement at $300 per week, restoring vital relief to those who have been put out of work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, this legislation provides a federal subsidy for half of a state's costs for unemployment benefits granted to employees of state and local governments and non-profits, who may have been devastated by spending cuts, said Rep. Rush At a time when economic strain has caused millions of Americans to struggle with hunger, this legislation increases the monthly SNAP benefit level by 15%. This is a crucial increase for families who have may have found themselves wondering where their next meal was going to come from. With a recent survey from the United States Census Bureau finding that over 1 in 10 Americans can sometimes find themselves without enough to eat on a weekly basis, I am glad Congress recognized the moral imperative for this increase. Additionally today's legislation provided a refundable tax credit in the amount of $600 per eligible family member, phased out after an individual or household reaches a specified income level, and a provision allowing employers to postpone paying their portion of 2020 Social Security taxes until January, 1, 2022. Several measures critical to the survival of small businesses were also included in the package passed by the House today: Critical funding and policy changes to help small businesses including minority-owned business and nonprofits weather this pandemic. The legislation includes over $284 billion for first and second forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, expands PPP eligibility for nonprofits, modifies requirements to help the smallest businesses, struggling non-profits, and independent restaurants, and includes $15 billion in dedicated funding for live venues, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions. The agreement also includes $20 billion for targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which are critical to many smaller businesses on Main Street. Establishes a $9 billion Emergency Capital Investment Program to provide low-cost, long-term capital investments to minority depository institutions (MDIs) and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to support lending in low-income and underserved communities, including persistent poverty counties, that have been disproportionately impacted by the economic effects of the COVID19 pandemic, as well as $3 billion for grants and other financial assistance to CDFIs, as they serve consumers, small businesses, and nonprofits in their communities. Sadly, COVID-19 and the resulting economic downturn has thrown many Americans into housing insecurity. Today's package includes several measures to aide those struggling to pay their rent or suffering from homelessness: Secured $25 billion in federal rental assistance and extends the federal eviction ban through January 31, 2020. The economic devastation wrought by COVID-19 has caused many to lose their jobs and incomes, and Rep. Rush is pleased that this package will allow Americans to remain in their homes and help assist them in regaining their economic security. Expands access to housing through $43.4 million in targeted vouchers to reduce homelessness among families with children, individuals, veterans, and survivors of domestic violence. $3.8 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), an increase of $10 million. Today's package also assists the transportation sector, among the hardest hit, by enacting the following measures: Provides emergency relief to transit services, including airlines, airports, mass transit, and state highways. Specifically, the legislation includes $15 billion to help airlines maintain their payrolls, $14 billion in operating assistance for mass transit, $10 billion for state highway maintenance and operations, and $2 billion for operation and personnel costs of airports. Rep. Rush believes that it is vital that transit agencies, like the CTA, are able to continue to operate and to pay their workers during this difficult time. It is also critical that they have the resources they need to keep both their employees and passengers safe and healthy. Rep. Rush has long advocated for more equitable broadband access, and today's legislation included several measures that made critical progress: $3.2 billion for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program, which provides broadband household discounts of up to $50, or up to $75 on Tribal lands, off the cost of internet service and a subsidy for low-cost devices such as computers and tablets to eligible recipients. Provides $1 billion for Tribal broadband programs. $300 million in grants for rural broadband. Appropriates $65 million to improve broadband map. Establishes Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to focus on broadband access to and adoption at Historically Black Colleges or Universities and appropriates $285 million for pilot program. As schools and early childhood learning programs continue to navigate the COVID-19 Pandemic, Rep. Rush was pleased to support the following measures in today's relief package: 54.3 billion for the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund. $22.7 billion for the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. $250 million for Head Start. Rep. Rush's Omnibus Government Funding Priorities Included Today's package includes $2 million to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) for the implementation of the Cold Case Record Collections Act of 2018. The Cold Case Records Collections Act requires NARA to establish a public database of unsolved civil rights cases. This ensures that those who were the victims of crimes which violated civil rights will never be lost to history. I was proud to lead the effort for the passage of this bill in the House and am pleased to see that today's package allocates the resources NARA needs to carry out its responsibilities under the law. Rep. Rush serves as the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Energy Subcommittee, and the following Energy priorities were enacted in the FY2021 Omnibus package: $39.6 billion for the Department of Energy, an increase of $1 billion above the fiscal year 2020 level and $4.5 billion above the budget request. $2.86 billion for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, an increase of $72 million above the fiscal year 2020 level and $2.1 billion above the President's request. $1.5 billion for Nuclear, an increase of $14.2 million above the fiscal year 2020 level and $328 million above the President's request. $7.026 billion for Science, an increase of $26 million above the fiscal year 2020 level and $1.2 billion above the President's request. $427 million for the Advanced Research Projects Agency Energy, an increase of $2 million above the fiscal year 2020 level and rejects the budget proposal to eliminate this program. As our schools, education programs, and institutes of higher learning shape young minds into thoughtful and engaged citizens, the following measures were included in today's package to support them: $73.5 billion for the Department of Education, an increase of $785 million above the 2020 enacted level and $7 billion above the President's budget request. $40.6 billion for K-12 education programs, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, an increase of $498 million above the 2020 enacted level. $24.5 billion for Federal student aid programs, an increase of $25 million above the 2020 enacted level. $2.5 billion for higher education programs, an increase of $66 million above the 2020 enacted level. $1.1 billion for Federal TRIO programs, an increase of $7 million above the 2020 enacted level. $475 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), in 2023 advance funding, an increase of $10 million above the 2020 enacted level. $257 million for the Institute of Museum and Library Services, an increase of $5 million above the 2020 enacted level. Environmental Protection $9.24 billion in for the Environmental Protection Agency, an increase of $180 million above the 2020 enacted level and $2.53 billion above the budget request. $566 million for environmental compliance monitoring and enforcement activities and grants, a $14 million increase above the 2020 enacted level and $41 million above the budget request. $12.5 million for Environmental Justice activities, a $2.3 million increase above the 2020 enacted level and over four-fold increase above the budget request. Includes the Water Resources Development Act of 2020, which passed the House on July 30, 2020. Increased Funding for Great Lakes Maintenance Secured $153 million, an increase of $2 million over Fiscal Year 2020, for the Army Corps Investigations account, so that more can be done to ensure that Chicago's shoreline is protected from the ever-increasing water levels in Lake Michigan and the associated erosion taking place. Rep. Rush led a letter to the Appropriations Committee asking for this increase in funding. Flooding this year has resulted in near-record lake levels and coastal damage. It is critical that the Army Corps has the resources it needs in order to identify long-term solutions to protect critical infrastructure. Arts and Humanities $167.50 million each for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities, which rejects the President's budget request proposal to eliminate the Agencies. The FY2021 Omnibus package also included several key authorizing measures that advanced Rep. Rush's legislative priorities: Infrastructure $227.9 million in FY2021 for the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) pipeline safety program with an increase to $237.9 million by FY2023 for operational expenses, state pipeline safety grants, one-call notification program, and other programs. Directs PHMSA to improve safety by requiring methane leak detection and repair programs, a study of standards for automatic shut-off valves on existing pipelines, and increasing inspection and enforcement personnel. Energy $303 million investment into advanced nuclear energy technologies and to support the modernization of existing operating nuclear power plants. $1.73 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program to provide low-income communities with home energy efficiency retrofits and other weatherization services. Reforms the Department of Energy's Title XVII loan program to make $23.9 billion of existing funds to deploy emissions reduction technologies. $36 million the Federal Energy Management Program to support federal agencies in meeting energy efficiency goals through public-private partnerships. $75 million to deliver reliable clean energy to low-income and minority communities, including the deployment of energy storage grants and microgrids. Environment Reauthorized the diesel emission reduction program (DERA) until FY 2024. Directs the Environmental Protection Agency to program to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 85 percent over 15 years. Education Reinstates Pell Grants to those convicted of drug offenses by lifting the prohibition of financial aid to incarcerated students or students convicted of drug offenses. Expands the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) program process and simplifies the federal financial aid process to support low-income students in pursing higher education. In summary, this legislative package makes important strides in advancing equity and rebuilding our economy and the lives of all those who have been effected by the COVID-19 pandemic. While no legislation is perfect, this bill is the result of months of painstaking negotiations and diligent attention to the needs of those across the country. For these reasons, I am proud to have voted in favor of it. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-calls-congressional-leadership-extend-states-use,Congressman Krishnamoorthi calls on Congressional leadership to extend states use of CARES Act funds due to uncertainty of state funding in new COVID-19 package,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi reiterated the need for an extension of the deadline for state and local governments to spend Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) payments provided by the CARES Act and additional flexibility on how the payments may be spent. On Tuesday, Congressman Krishnamoorthi led a letter with members of the Illinois delegation Bobby L. Rush (IL-1), Danny K. Davis (IL-7), Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Robin L. Kelly (IL-2), and Bill Foster (IL-11) to Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader McConnell, and Leader Schumer requesting that they provide state and local governments additional time and flexibility to spend their remaining CRF funds. As a result of the pandemic, states have faced high rates of unemployment, business closures, and reduced tax revenues, leaving states across the country facing serious budget shortfalls that threaten their ability to provide services to the public. The Office of the Illinois Comptroller estimates that the state has already spent approximately $2.3 billion directly on the pandemic for services ranging from testing to medical assistance. The CARES Act required CRF recipients to spend any funds received by December 30, 2020 and restricted use of the funds to coronavirus-related expenses. While the CARES Act spending deadline is the end of December, the pandemic has not yet ended and a winter surge in virus cases is expected. Asking cities and states to return CRF funds at what is likely to be the height of the entire pandemic would be counterproductive and undermine the progress that has already been made towards bringing the virus under control, the Representatives wrote. Unfortunately, the latest proposed COVID-19 package may not include additional state and local aid, even as local public health authorities have cited a lack of funding for vaccine distribution among their top concerns. If we do not provide state and local governments with an immediate infusion of additional, flexible aid, we must at least allow them to continue spending the money that they have already received and in such a way that allows them to avoid the most catastrophic economic scenarios, the Representatives wrote. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requests that Congressional leadership extend the December deadline for states to spend their CRF funds in the upcoming COVID-19 legislative package, especially if additional state and local aid will not be included in the package. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-lahood-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner-illinois-18th-0,Rep. LaHood Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner for Illinois 18th Congressional District,2020-12-17,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18)announced today that Nehal Tangudu, a senior at Normal Community High School, has won the Congressional App Challenge for the 18th Congressional District of Illinois in 2020. Nehal's project, the ""Timeline of the Universe"" was completed while taking classes from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I am pleased to announce that Nehal Tangudu from Normal Community High School has won this year's Congressional App Challenge for the 18th District of Illinois,stated Rep. LaHood.Not only did Nehal display exceptional coding and technical skills in hi application, but Nehal's innovative design in the Timeline of the Universe went above and beyond expectations."" This year's Challenge brought a variety of applicants from across central and west-central Illinois, and it was the most competitive competition we've had over the last four years. The Congressional App Challenge always presents an exciting opportunity for students to showcase their talent in the innovative technology field. Computer science and STEM education are critical to our nation's long-term success, and I will continue to promote the importance of these programs through this Challenge and in Congress. Timeline for the Universe App Name:Timeline for the Universe School: Normal Community High School Overview: The app gives an in depth timeline our earth's history, providing educational information about the world's evolution You can view his submissionhere ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-approves-bost-veterans-provisions,HOUSE APPROVES BOST VETERANS PROVISIONS,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvements Act. The legislation includes several bills that Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12), the incoming lead Republican on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, introduced to improve benefits and services for veterans and their families. Our nation's military members have risked all in defense of our nation and our freedoms, said Bost. They should not be met with bureaucratic red tape when they return home. I'm proud to have introduced several provisions that were included in this package that will help ensure that servicemembers and veterans receive the benefits they have earned. Bost speaks on the House Floor in support of the legislative package. Click here to watch. Bost Provisions Included H.R. 7287 Allows specialty care providers to conduct disability exams across state lines H.R. 6013 Reforms the Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI) program to ensure that veterans can receive life insurance coverage through the VA, even if they had been previously denied coverage by private insurance providers H.R. 5245 Includes a provision that Bost introduced to allow veterans to remove a dependent via the eBenefits website H.R. 7445 Expands eligibility for the VA Home Loan Guarantee Program to members of the National Guard and Reserve who have been activated by governors in response to COVID-19, recent civil disturbances, and natural disasters H.R. 7105 Expands VA services for homeless veterans during the coronavirus pandemic ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-initiative-to-increase-funeral-benefits-for-veterans-survivors-passes-house/,Bustos Initiative to Increase Funeral Benefits for Veterans Survivors Passes House,2020-12-16,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, bipartisan legislation led by Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) to provide critical relief to surviving families of veterans suffering a loss passed the House of Representatives. The Burial Rights for America's Veterans' Efforts (BRAVE) Act was included in a sweeping package to address benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). We owe our veterans and military families nothing less than the best for their service and sacrifice, Congresswoman Bustos said. That's why I'm pleased to see this bipartisan, commonsense fix to the Veterans Affairs funeral benefits system pass the House today. It's essential we honor the lives of our veterans properly and prevent military families from facing unfair financial burdens when they lose a loved one. Congresswoman Bustos' billwould upgrade the VA's reimbursement for the costs of a veteran's funeral by increasing VA burial benefits for non-service connected deaths that occur at non-VA facilities. Under current law, survivors are penalized based on the circumstances at the time of a veteran's death. Veterans who die of a non-service connected condition outside of a VA facility are offered just $300 for funeral expenses, while the VA will pay up to $796 toward burial and funeral expenses for non-service connected deaths inside a VA facility. The BRAVE Act would grant parity to survivors by making the benefit the same regardless of where a veteran dies. The legislative package also addresses veterans' education programs and benefits, pandemic assistance, disability and life insurance programs, health care programs, homelessness and housing, transition to civilian life services, support for women veterans and financial protections. In May, Congresswoman Bustos, Congressman Adam Kinzinger and Senator Gary Peters wrote to House Leadership encouraging them to include their bipartisan BRAVE Act in the next coronavirus relief package. You can lead the lawmakers' letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/language-congressman-krishnamoorthi-s-bipartisan-resolution-urging-china-end,Language From Congressman Krishnamoorthis Bipartisan Resolution Urging China to End Its Military Aggression Toward India Passes Both Chambers,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC The U.S. House and Senate officially passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included key components of Congressman Krishnamoorthi's resolution language urging the Chinese governmentto end its military aggression toward India along the Line of Actual Control. The inclusion of this provision, which Congressman Krishnamoorthi led as an amendment when the bill passed the House, reflects the United States Government's strong support for its allies and partners like India in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond: Violent aggression is seldom the answer, and this is especially true for the Line of Actual Control, which is the disputed border region that separates the People's Republic of China from India,said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi.He added, By including my resolution language in the NDAA and signing that legislation into law, the United States government will send a clear message that China's military provocations of India will not be tolerated. The United States is committed to standing with our allies and partners like India in resolving the border standoff using diplomatic means. Congressman Krishnamoorthi's measure, which passed each chamber with overwhelming bipartisan support, will become law if President Trump signs it. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-calls-for-the-reimagining-of-healthcare-delivery-following-state,Rush Calls for the Reimagining of Healthcare Delivery Following State Board Meeting on Mercy Hospital & Medical Center,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) made the following statement following the conclusion of the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board meeting: Mercy Hospital and Medical Center has served residents of the South Side for 170 years. They are not alone in struggling to keep their doors open, especially as our hospitals grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the last few months, I have heard from safety net hospitals, both in and around my district, that are being devastated by the increased costs and declining revenues resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before the pandemic, the safety net hospitals serving my constituents, including Advocate Trinity Hospital, South Shore Hospital, St. Bernard Hospital, and, of course, Mercy Hospital & Medical Center, operated at a loss in 2018 due to few inpatient cases and decreases in reimbursement for Medicaid patients and the uninsured. We cannot afford for our healthcare facilities to lack the resources they need especially during the pandemic. It is incumbent on us to ensure that everyone has access to the medical care they need. We must work together to reimagine healthcare delivery on the South Side. This will take dedicated funding from both the State and Federal Government, as well as creative solutions from hospitals, providers, and community groups. I remain committed to working with my colleagues in the U.S. Congress and with the incoming Biden Administration to prioritize federal funding, but we must use all the resources at our disposal. Now is the time for decisive action. I commend the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board for decisively voting against allowing Mercy Hospital & Medical Center to proceed with its plans to close. While it is rare for the Review Board to deny a hospital's request to close, to do otherwise particularly during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic would have been disastrous. I believe that the Review Board was swayed by the outpouring of community opposition from citizens, including the testimony of patients and medical staff from around the city, as well as the leadership of Governor Pritzker in opposing this closure. We must now work on a solution that ensures long-term access to health care for patients and the financial stability of hospitals on the South Side. Rep. Rush has been a leading voice advocating for keeping Mercy Hospital & Medical Center from closing. In March 2020, he wrote to Governor JB Pritzker urging the state to promptly provide state funding for safety net hospitals, including Mercy Hospital. In August 2020, Rep. Rush spoke with Speaker Nancy Pelosi to urge Congress to direct the Department of Health and Human Services to provide additional funding from the Provider Relief Fund to safety net hospitals given the increased costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://shimkus.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/shimkus-salutes-life-of-lawrence-county-legend-cunningham,Shimkus Salutes Life of Lawrence County Legend Cunningham,2020-12-14,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,John Shimkus,S000364,shimkus.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15)entered a statement into the permanent Congressional Record remembering the extraordinary life of Lawrence County's Roscoe D. Cunningham, who passed away November 28. ""Roscoe proved to be a strong community leader, dedicating his life to bettering his community in Lawrence County. He was considered one of the county's most vocal advocates,"" Shimkus said. ""Lawrence County will surely miss him."" The full entry in the Congressional Record can be found HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/video-bustos-legislation-to-rename-the-galesburg-post-office-after-fallen-hero-senior-airman-daniel-miller-passes-house/,VIDEO: Bustos Legislation to Rename the Galesburg Post Office after Fallen Hero Senior Airman Daniel Miller Passes House,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WATCH: Bustos Honors Senior Airman Miller on House Floor WASHINGTON Yesterday, legislation introduced by Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) to rename the U.S. Post Office on East Main Street in Galesburg, Illinois, as the Senior Airman Daniel Miller Post Office Building passed the House of Representatives and will now head to the Senate. In 2004, Daniel Miller of Galesburg, Illinois, joined the United States Airforce after graduating from ROWVA High School in Oneida, Illinois, where he played varsity football and his principal described him as always smiling and caring about everyone. Miller went on to earn the rank of Senior Airman and became an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Airman. He was deployed from the 775th Civil Engineer Squadron's Explosive Ordinance Disposal Flight in Hill Air Force Base, Utah, which is responsible for defusing military and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and working with chemical and biological weapons. On January 7, 2007, at the age of 24, Senior Airman Miller was killed in action attempting to defuse a car bomb while protecting our nation in Al-Mahmudiyah, Iraq. Also killed were members of Team LimaSenior Airman Elizabeth A. Loncki and Technical Sergeant Timothy R. Weiner. To commemorate the service and sacrifice of Senior Airman Miller, Congresswoman Bustos introduced legislation to rename the U.S. Post Office on East Main Street in Galesburg as the Senior Airman Daniel Miller Post Office Building. I am proud to see this legislation pass the House to honor the life of Senior Airman Miller who paid the ultimate sacrifice defending our nation, Congresswoman Bustos said. It is my hope that this commemoration will serve as a place for the Galesburg community to remember this hero and allow the legacy of Senior Airman Miller to live on for time to come. My brother Dan never hesitated to put the concerns of others before his own and it gives our family great pride to see this legislation pass the House, said Tim Miller, brother of Senior Airman Daniel Miller. This is an excellent way to honor his commitment and remember those who have served our nation. I thank Congresswoman Bustos for being such a relentless advocate for military families and appreciate all of the work she has done on their behalf. You can watch Congresswoman Bustos honor Senior Airman Miller on the House Floor here. BACKGROUND Prior to joining the Air Force, Senior Airman Miller lived in Galesburg, Illinois and attended the Rio, Oneida, Wataga, Victoria and Altona (ROWVA) High School in Oneida, Illinois, where he played football and graduated in 2001. Senior Airman Miller was the eldest of six children, including a younger brother who served a yearlong tour in Iraq with the National Guard. ROWVA High School's Principal described him as, always happy, always smiling it didn't matter who you were, Dan liked you. He was that kind of kid. He cared about everyone around him. Senior Airman Miller joined the United States Air Force in 2004 and went on to become an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Airman. He was deployed from the 775th Civil Engineer Squadron's Explosive Ordinance Disposal Flight in Hill Air Force Base, Utah, which is responsible for defusing military and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and working with chemical and biological weapons. At the age of 24, Senior Airman Miller was killed in Al-Mahmudiyah, Iraq on January 7, 2007 while attempting to defuse a car bomb. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-introduces-legislation-to-protect-consumers-from-the-dangers-of,Rush Introduces Legislation to Protect Consumers from the Dangers of Portable Generators,2020-12-11,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) announced the introduction of H.R. 8928, the Portable Generator Safety Standard to Avoid Needless Deaths and Reduce Disabilities Act, or, the Portable Generator Safety STANDARD Act. This legislation would direct the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to create mandatory consumer product safety standards for portable generators in order to protect consumers from death or injury related to the use of these products. There are currently no mandatory safety standards for the performance of portable generators, which are tied to the deaths of nearly 1,000 Americans from carbon monoxide poisoning between 2005 and 2019, as well as several thousand non-fatal injuries each year. When faced with unpredictable power outages, countless Americans turn to portable generators in order to meet their electricity needs. This becomes even more important as we enter the bitter cold months associated with Chicago winters and elsewhere. However, many families seldom imagine that the use of these products could result in their own untimely deaths or that of a loved one, said Rep. Rush. Between 2005 and 2019, portable generators have killed nearly 1,000 of our fellow Americans through the emission of noxious carbon monoxide. In fact, a number of deaths associated with Hurricane Laura, which rocked the Gulf Coast of the United States this past summer, were tied to the use of these generators and the subsequent carbon monoxide poisoning. This colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas is a silent killer, and due to the abhorrent absence of mandatory safety standards associated with portable gasoline generators, many Americans are unwittingly poisoning themselves and their families, Rep. Rush continued. That's why I am proud to introduce the Portable Generator Safety STANDARD Act, which has been endorsed by Consumer Reports and the Consumer Federation of America, in order to create common sense safety standards for these products and ultimately protect American consumers from the lesser known dangers associated with them. I am confident that the bill's requirements and the simple implementation of clear and conspicuous labeling will make these products safer and ultimately save lives. People typically use portable generators as trusted emergency equipment, and the last thing they should have to worry about during a power outage is someone getting hurt or killed by carbon monoxide poisoning, said William Wallace, manager of safety policy for Consumer Reports. These deaths and injuries are preventableespecially given recent innovationand the best way to help people stay safe is to make sure that every portable generator comes equipped with essential safety features. That's exactly what this bill does, and it's why CR strongly supports it. Consumer Federation of America applauds the introduction of the Portable Generator Safety STANDARD Act, stated Rachel Weintraub, legislative director and general counsel with Consumer Federation of America. For far too long, too many portable generators posed serious threats to consumers. This bill takes significant steps to reduce these preventable deaths and injuries, Weintraub concluded. In particular, the Portable Generator Safety STANDARD Act requires that: portable generators have certain maximum carbon monoxide emission rates based on the type and class of the generator; portable generators have appropriate shutoff capability in elevated carbon monoxide environments, and a portable generator shall include clear and conspicuous labeling marking the direction of exhaust. Earlier this year, Rep. Rush introduced H.R. 5565, the Safety Hazard and Recall Efficiency (SHARE) Information Act, which would amend the Consumer Product Safety Act to allow the CPSC to share critical information regarding hazardous products to consumers in a timely manner. The legislation would also increase the civil penalties on those who violate information sharing requirements or continue to sell dangerous products. Both the SHARE Information Act and the Portable Generator Safety STANDARD Act are supported by Consumer Reports and the Consumer Federation of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-fda-vaccine-advisory-panel-review-covid-19-vaccine,Congressman Krishnamoorthi On FDA Vaccine Advisory Panel Review Of COVID-19 Vaccine Data: Science Prevailed Over Politics,2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to today's meeting of the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) on Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine: Today, science prevailed over politics, as the independent vaccine experts on FDA's VRBPAC advisory committee carefully assessed the safety and efficacy of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine during nearly 10 hours of open public session. This comes after months of the President attempting to pressure public health officials to rush and hastily approve a vaccine, contributing to public skepticism around vaccines in the process. After my Oversight Subcommittee's investigation and the introduction of the EVALUATE Act, my legislation to require VRBPAC review, FDA officials finally committed not to rush a vaccine and to undergo public VRBPAC review despite White House meddling. VRBPAC's vote in favor of recommending emergency authorization gives me confidence in the Pfizer vaccine, and this independent review will also play a key role in reassuring the public as to the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine as we work toward universal inoculation and, ultimately, ending this pandemic.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-krishnamoorthi-garc-and-davis-ask-cdc-extend-eviction-moratorium,"Congressmen Krishnamoorthi, Garca, And Davis Ask CDC To Extend Eviction Moratorium In Response To Worsening Pandemic",2020-12-10,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Yesterday, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8), Congressman Jess Garca (IL-4), and Congressman Danny Davis (IL-7) sent a letter to Director Robert Redfield at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) requesting that the CDC extend its eviction moratorium. The Congressmen expressed their concern that if this moratorium were to expire at the end of December, over 19 million Americans would potentially face evictions. The CDC's eviction moratorium was implemented on September 4th through the Public Health Service Act with the justification that evictions could lead to a rise in homelessness and overcrowding in homeless shelters, a situation in which it's difficult to follow public health measures. When the eviction moratorium was implemented, there were 174,000 deaths in the U.S. from COVID-19, and currently, there are over 270,000 deaths. Given the prolonged stalling of the economy, the current rising COVID-19 case rates, and the potential increase in COVID-19 cases which could result from a wave of new evictions, the Congressmen believe that this eviction moratorium is still necessary in order to provide a safety net to those in need. We saw an increased level of evictions in between the expiration of the CARES Act eviction mortarium on July 25th and the implementation of the CDC moratorium on September 4th, the Representatives wrote. Allowing for another gap in between moratoriums during the coldest month of the year could have a catastrophic impact on public health and economic recovery in the United States. The Congressmen asked that the eviction moratorium be extended past its current December deadline and requested a response from Director Redfield by Friday, December 11th. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-announces-78-million-metro-east-health-center-grant,BOST ANNOUNCES $7.8 MILLION METRO EAST HEALTH CENTER GRANT,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the Department of Health and Human Services has awarded a $7.8 million grant to SIHF Healthcare in Sauget through their Health Center Cluster funding program. These discretionary funds will be used for general health center operations. Now more than ever, healthcare providers like SIHF Healthcare are working around the clock to keep their communities safe and healthy, said Bost. This grant will provide SIHF with critical resources to continue their work to provide quality care for patients. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6569,"Congressman Lipinski Celebrates Final, Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill with Provisions to Protect Lake Michigan from Carp, Restore Bubbly Creek, and Address Local Shoreline Erosion",2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today Congressman Lipinski voted to pass S. 1811, the final conference report for the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020. The bill contains numerous provisions crafted by the Congressman as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. These provisions will have a positive impact on Chicagoland residents, including protecting Lake Michigan from invasive carp, restoring Bubbly Creek, and addressing shoreline erosion. As the senior Illinois member on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I have worked in the committee to advance vital local water infrastructure projects that will improve the lives of Chicagoland residents, said Congressman Lipinski. WRDA is vital to maintaining the Illinois Waterway system that runs through the heart of the Third District and strengthens the local and regional economy. I was proud to have worked in committee to raise the federal cost share for the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project from 50% to 80% which will save Illinois taxpayers significant money. It will also help ensure that this critical project to protect the Great Lakes from invasive Asian carp will proceed. I was also happy to include provisions that will prevent the spread of Asian carp, advance the restoration of Bubbly Creek, fix our eroding shoreline, and restore the Chicago Area Rivers eco-system. The full WRDA bill will authorize the study and construction of dozens of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects that build and maintain inland waterway locks and dams, ports, and other water infrastructure, while also providing flood relief, and restoring damaged ecosystems. Infrastructure projects authorized under the legislation will create good paying jobs, and the bill has won the endorsement of both business and labor groups across the country. Congressman Lipinski ensured several key provisions were included in the final 2020 Water Resources Development Act, including provisions: Authorizing the Bubbly Creek ecosystem restoration project; Authorizing the Brandon Road lock and dam project in Joliet at 80% federal cost share instead of the usual 50% share, in order to help prevent the spread of Asian carp into Lake Michigan; Directing the Army Corps to prioritize completion of a study to fix the eroding Chicago Shoreline; Authorizing a study to develop eco-system restoration projects for the Chicago Area Rivers system; Incorporating more sustainable and cost efficient, natural infrastructure into the Army Corps of Engineers' efforts to reduce flooding and restore ecosystems; Raising the federal cost share for inland waterways system infrastructure projects from 50% to 65% for 10 years to help the Army Corps of Engineers modernize our inland waterways system more quickly and effectively, while reducing the burden on local taxpayers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-approves-bost-waterways-infrastructure-provisions,HOUSE APPROVES BOST WATERWAYS INFRASTRUCTURE PROVISIONS,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which will help strengthen America's ports, locks, dams, and water infrastructure. The bill, which now advances to President Trump's desk for his signature, includes several provisions introduced by U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) to improve certain water infrastructure projects across Southern Illinois. Every year, 575 million tons of cargo pass through our inland ports and waterways, including several in Southern Illinois, said Bost. These projects are vitally important to our local and national economies. I'm pleased that the Water Resources Development Act includes several provisions I introduced to strengthen Southern Illinois' water infrastructure from Wood River to Cairo and points in between. Bost provisions in WRDA include: Increasing federal funding authorization to help carry out six miles of sewer separation projects in Belleville and Wood River. This project will reduce sewage backup, disruptions to traffic, and other health and economic consequences resulting from overflows and untreated sewage; Creating a program for the United States Army Corps of Engineers to make repairs and improvements to Army Corps-constructed flood pumping stations, such as those in Cairo, Illinois; Permitting local levee districts to make additional in-kind contributions toward achieving a positive Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) in cases where the Corps determines that the cost of repair to a breached non-federal levee exceeds its flood prevention benefits. Increasing the federal costs share for construction of inland waterways projects, such as locks and dams. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-helps-pass-key-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-inland-waterways/,Bustos Helps Pass Key Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Inland Waterways,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) helped pass the final bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020. This legislation, which was first passed by the House in July and has been finalized by bipartisan, bicameral negotiations, authorizes Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) water resources projects to strengthen our locks and dams, improve inland waterways, invest in flood damage reduction and update water infrastructure. The Senate is expected to pass the final bill swiftly and send it to the President's desk to be signed into law before the end of the year. Our agricultural producers depend on our inland waterways to deliver tons of goods to market each year, and we must ensure this economic driver remains strong, said Congresswoman Bustos. With the Mississippi River to our west, and the Illinois River to our south, it's vital we have reliable water infrastructure with modern locks and dams to serve the needs of our communities. This strong bipartisan bill is an example of the work Congress can accomplish when we come together, and I'll continue to invest in our region's infrastructure. Click HERE for audio. The WRDA would do the following in alignment with Congresswoman Bustos' priorities: Invest additional Federal resources for the construction of inland waterways projects and prioritizes the construction of projects identified by inland users, including the Upper Ohio River navigation system and the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP) for the Upper Mississippi River.Amend the cost-share formula for the construction and major rehabilitation of inland waterways navigation projects and would expedite completion of such projects, bringing the U.S. inland waterways transportation system into the 21st century. Through this new cost-share program, 65 percent of the federal share will come from the General Fund, while 35 percent will come from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund.Fully unlock the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) by providing the authority to appropriate additional funds for harbor maintenance needs from the existing balance in the Trust Fund. The current estimate of the balance in the trust fund is approximately $10 billion.Authorize the Corps to study, design and construct water resources projects for communities that have been subjected to repetitive flooding events and have received emergency flood assistance, including the construction of temporary barriers. This will help repetitive loss communities, especially those in economically-disadvantaged communities, obtain critical flood protection.Renew Congressional support for water resources projects that promote the beneficial reuse of sediment by establishing a national policy that recognizes the economic and environmental value in reusing clean dredged materials for ecosystem restoration or storm damage reduction projects.Create additional flexibility for the Corps to address the water resource needs of economically disadvantaged communities, communities of color and rural communities.Authorize the Corps to affordably study the flooding and storm damage reduction needs of economically disadvantaged communities, including communities of color, and tribal and rural communities. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-helps-pass-strong-national-defense-bill-2/,Bustos Helps Pass Strong National Defense Bill,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bill Includes Key Bustos Provisions Such as Zillow-style Military Real Estate Tool, Pay Raises, Protections for Gold Star Families, National Guardsmen WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17), a member of the powerful House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, helped pass the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) out of the House. The bill includes key Bustos provisions to establish a Zillow-style real estate online tool for the Army, strengthen protections for Gold Star families, provide a pay raise for our military, enhance student loan benefits for National Guard and Reserve members and require the Department of Defense to provide answers for its inconsistent and troubling record on National Guard COVID-response funding. The heart of our nation's defense runs right through Northwestern and Central Illinois and that's why I'm proud to help pass a bipartisan, bicameral National Defense Authorization Act today, Congresswoman Bustos said. From the Rock Island Arsenal to the Peoria Air National Guard Base to research facilities in Rockford, this package upholds our region's strong tradition of service and includes critical initiatives that will expand economic and real estate opportunity for our military bases, strengthen protections for Gold Star families, and ensure our National Guard service men and women get the support they deserve. Congresswoman Bustos fought to include the following provisions: Opens up Rock Island Arsenal for growth: The Army will now choose certain installations for a pilot program to catalog unused real estate online, much like Zillow.com does for residential real estate. If the Arsenal is selected, qualifying organizations from state and federal government, academia and the private sector could begin to lease surplus real estate on the Arsenal, right next to the Army's Advanced and Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence. Student Loan Benefits for National Guard: The bill enhances student loan benefits for National Guard and Reserve members. Right now, National Guardsmen and Reservists can receive 15% or $500 (whichever is greater) of student loans forgiven every year. However, because the student loan forgiveness program kicks in during the second year of a National Guard enlistment, many Guardsmen will only receive a total of 75% or $2,500 (whichever is greater) of the student loan forgiveness by the end of a six-year enlistment. Today's bill incorporates parts of Congresswoman Bustos' bipartisan Selected Reserve Education Loan Repayment Program (LRP) Enhancement Act to double the minimum forgiveness to 15% or $1,000 (whichever is greater). Uniforms for Women Servicemembers: In today's bill, Congresswoman Bustos helped include a provision that would authorize a pilot program to provide women in the military access to maternity uniforms at no cost. Pregnancy Discrimination: Congresswoman Bustos also helped include a provision that requires the Department of Defense to develop policies that fight pregnancy discrimination, including reasonable accommodations for a pregnant servicemember's career (like training postponement). Other priorities of Congresswoman Bustos in the bill include: Gives Our Troops a Pay Raise and Protects Their Safety: Authorizes a 3 percent military pay raise, protects their health by cleaning up so-called PFAS forever chemicals and advances justice with improvements to sexual assault prevention and response. Strengthens Our Military Families: Includes important fixes to expand paid parental leave for certain federal civilian employees and addresses the shortage of military child care. This package also includes requirements for improvements to military housing. Addresses Removal of Confederate Names and Symbols from Military Bases: Creates an independent commission to make binding recommendations on modifying or removing all names, symbols, displays, etc. that honor the Confederacy or any person who served voluntarily with the Confederacy. Strengthens Our Military's Tactical Airlift Fleet: This package provides authorization for seven new C-130J aircraft in addition to continued propulsion and propeller upgrades for C-130H aircraft, such as those flown by the Peoria Air National Guard Base. Helps Veterans Exposed to Agent Orange: Provides long-overdue disability and treatment benefits to Vietnam-era veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-asks-white-house-if-potential-presidential-pardons,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Asks White House If Potential Presidential Pardons For President Trumps Family Or Himself Will Specify The Crimes For Which The Recipients Are Being Pardoned,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent a letter to White House Counsel Pat Cipollone citing his concern about President Trump's reported interest in issuing preemptive pardons to members of his family, including himself. This letter follows a December 3rd letter that Congressman Krishnamoorthi sent to White House Counsel regarding the pardon of former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn. The use of a preemptive presidential pardon for a family member, particularly a blanket pardon, would be entirely unprecedented in American history, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. President Trump has reportedly asked aides if he can issue preemptive, blanket pardons to Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner. There have also been reports that President Trump has considered pardoning himself. These preemptive, blanket pardons would supposedly apply to all future federal charges. While each of these family members, and the President himself, have faced scrutiny for actions which could lead to federal investigations, if not necessarily charges, the President could eliminate this risk through issuing blanket, preemptive pardons, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. These pardons would block any accountability from the Trump family regarding their illicit actions. Congressman Krishnamoorthi introduced the Presidential Pardon Transparency Act last year in order to increase the transparency of the pardon power. This act would require that the Attorney General publish the name, date, and full text of a presidential pardon no later than three days after it's issued. While this legislation has yet to become law, Congressman Krishnamoorthi is intent on ensuring there is maximum transparency with future pardons of the Trump Administration. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested the following information from the White House Counsel: Is the White House reviewing potential pardons for President Trump's family members or himself? Can you guarantee that any pardons issued to members of the Trump family, close associates, or President Trump himself will be publicly disclosed and that the crimes for which the recipients are being pardoned will be specified? A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lahood-votes-improve-infrastructure-resources-illinois-waterways-0,LaHood Votes to Improve Infrastructure Resources for Illinois Waterways,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) voted in support of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020, which will provide critical support for Illinois locks and dams and waterways, provide rural communities additional resources in addressing flood risk needs, and strengthen Illinois' agriculture competitive advantage in the global economy. ""In central and west-central Illinois, which is uniquely positioned between the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, our communities rely heavily on water infrastructure resources for economic development,""said Rep. LaHood.""It is critical that we continue to invest in infrastructure that allows farmers and manufacturers in the 18th District to move their commodities around the globe. This bipartisan bill includes important provisions to boost federal support for inland waterways projects and strengthen flood plans in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. I am proud to once again support this essential piece of legislation for Illinois."" Rep. LaHood advocated for a provision in this year's WRDA which adjusts the federal cost-share of inland waterway projects. This provision will ensure that the Army Corps of Engineers construction projects are completed on-time and on-budget, including the anticipated 2023 Illinois Waterway lock and dam rehabilitation projects. Background: WRDA 2020 is bipartisan legislation that includes projects of national, regional, and local significance that help strengthen the Nation's global competitiveness, grow the economy, move goods throughout the country and abroad, protect communities, and create jobs. WRDA authorizes projects to improve ports and harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, and other pieces of water resources infrastructure, as well as programs and policy reforms related to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program. Specifically, these projects and investments in water resource infrastructure are initiated and carried out at the local level but provide valuable benefits regionally and nationally. Key reforms included in WRDA 2020 streamline flood risk reduction projects provide local communities the tools to build their infrastructure back faster and more resilient after disasters and take care of rural communities by providing additional support and resources in addressing flood risk needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6568,"Congressman Lipinski Secures Notable Victories in Defense Bill for 2021, Including Sustainable Chemistry bill, the Minerva Research Initiative, and Hacking for Defense",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC -- Today, Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-03) voted to pass the conferenced version of HR 6395, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021. The bipartisan package includes several provisions authored and championed by Congressman Lipinski, including the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act, the Hacking for Defense program, and the Minerva Research Initiative. The bill is expected to pass the Senate and be sent to the President's desk. Rep. Lipinski's H.R. 2051, the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act, which is included in the defense bill supports efforts in green chemistry across federal research agencies and will establish a coordinating entity under the National Science and Technology Council within the Office of Science and Technology Policy. The bill will allow federal agencies to assess the state of sustainable chemistry in the U.S. and coordinate federal efforts in sustainable chemistry to maximize return on federal investment in this area. Rep. Lipinski's bill had previously passed the House of Representatives on December 9, 2019 with support from environmental and industry groups. I'm proud to see the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act that I introduced along with Rep. Moolenar included in this bill, said Congressman Lipinski. This provision will strengthen collaboration between the federal government and the private sector by promoting sustainable research and development that can make unsafe chemicals obsolete. Global demand is increasing for products made from green chemicals that are safer for our health and the environment. This legislation creates an opportunity for the federal government to meet that demand and create domestic jobs. The proposal directly benefits our troops by helping the Department of Defense develop synthetic fuels, flame retardants, high-performance materials, and other equipment to protect warfighters. The bill also includes a directive led by Rep. Lipinski to restore the Minerva Research Initiative. Minerva is the Department of Defense distinguished basic social science research program, which was slated for elimination in the President's budget request. Projects funded under the Minerva Research Initiative help the U.S. better understand global threats like terrorism and combat negative influence from foreign adversaries. Many of the national security challenges we face are social in nature, said Congressman Lipinski. Particularly as we react to increasing pressure from China and the continued threat of global terrorism, we need to better understand and predict the decisions and behaviors of our adversaries. The social sciences inform many of the aims outlined in the Department of Defense's most recent National Defense Strategy, such as building stronger alliances and strengthening our technology advantage. Congressman Lipinski led a letter earlier this year calling for $17 million to restore the Minerva Research Initiative. The Joint Statement accompanying the bill also highlights the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) Office, which administers Hacking for Defense, or H4D, which Rep. Lipinski was able to get authorized in 2018. This Department of Defense entrepreneurial education program harnesses college students' creativity and energy and prepares them to address real-world national security challenges. ""We need more of our best and brightest young minds dedicated to advancing our nation's national security interest in a digital age,"" said Congressman Lipinski. ""I got H4D authorized as an innovative program to grow our defense talent pipeline, and I'm pleased to see that the new NDAA calls for the program to be fully resourced under its NSIN Office."" The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is the annual bill passed by Congress authorizing the Department of Defense's activities, other national security programs. The bill also authorizes the pay and benefits for our Armed Forces. This year's bill is the 60th straight year Congress has passed an NDAA. We need more of our best and brightest young minds dedicated to advancing our nation's national security interest in a digital age, said Congressman Lipinski. I got H4D authorized as an innovative program to grow our defense talent pipeline, and I'm pleased to see that the new NDAA calls for the program to be fully resourced under its NSIN Office. accompanying the bill also highlights the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) Office, which administers Hacking for Defense, or H4D, which Rep. Lipinski was able to get authorized in 2018. This Department of Defense entrepreneurial education program harnesses college students' creativity and energy and prepares them to address real-world national security challenges. The Joint Statement accompanying the bill also highlights the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) Office, which administers Hacking for Defense, or H4D, which Rep. Lipinski was able to get authorized in 2018. This Department of Defense entrepreneurial education program harnesses college students' creativity and energy and prepares them to address real-world national security challenges. Lipinski led a letter earlier this year calling for $17 million to restore the Minerva Research Initiative. The social sciences inform many of the aims outlined in the Department of Defense's most recent National Defense Strategy, such as building stronger alliances and strengthening our technology advantage. Congressman Lipinski led a letter earlier this year calling for $17 million to restore",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6571,Rep. Lipinski Farewell Speech,2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"When I was a professor teaching American government before I was elected to Congress, the first thing I would do when beginning to teach a class about Congress and the legislative process would be to show this video; the three minute Schoolhouse Rock! cartoon video from the 1970s, I'm Just a Bill. The cartoon begins with a group of constituents calling their congressman with an idea for a new law. The congressman introduces a bill which goes through House committee debate and amendment before a vote to report the bill favorably to the House floor. On the House floor the bill goes through debate and amendment before a majority vote that sends bill over to the Senate where the process continues. This is what we call regular order, a standard way of legislating in the House that facilitates extensive participation of Members in a deliberative, consensus-based decision-making process. More importantly, this is how the framers of the Constitution not only intended the House to work, but believed that the House needed to work if the United States, then it's infancy, was to succeed. Congress was created in Article I of the Constitution because the legislative branch being closest to the people - was necessarily the linchpin of American representative democracy. While the framers didn't include in the Constitution the rules by which the House or Senate would operate, they understood that the way in which the lawmaking process was conducted was critical to the creation of laws that were good for the nation as a whole and to the legitimacy of Congress and those laws. James Madison, oftentimes called the father of Congress, believed that it was essential that the legislative branch make policy in a manner that well-represented the vast and varied republic and best served the nation as a whole. Remember, our nation began as a unique experiment in self-governance. There was great doubt about whether the views of people so diverse could successfully be forged into good policy that served such a large nation. Madison believed that the way to do this was for Members of Congress to represent the multiple diverse ideas and interests of their constituents in an open marketplace of ideas in Congress. Through the legislative process the peoples' representatives would debate, deliberate, and put together a consensus on legislation that served the common good of the nation. What the Constitution created was not a parliamentary system because the framers did not intend to empower temporary majorities. Instead they wanted to compel compromise in a diverse society. The exercise of power was shared so that all Americans voters had an opportunity to be heard in the lawmaking process and to ensure that only the will of broad, durable majorities could be acted upon. Especially because America was a large and diverse country whose unity needed to be nurtured, it was critical that the legislative process worked this way so that the American people saw Congress as an institution that truly represented them and thus saw American law as legitimate. But today, the House doesn't often work this way, especially when we deal with issues that are the greatest importance to our nation. Those bills, when they get considered, don't get shaped through an open process in committee and on the floor. Each member doesn't have the opportunity to represent their constituents by bringing their ideas and interests to the legislative process where debate, deliberation, and compromise produce the best policy for our nation. Instead, the process runs through the Speaker's office, where the content of legislation is shaped to get enough votes - just out of the majority to pass something that pleases various partisans. Now, before I go any further I want to make clear that this is not a criticism of the current Speaker or any past Speaker. It's a problem of this institution. How did we get here? Well there has been a big change in the way Washington reacts every two years after a congressional election. It used to be the case that when election results came in, everyone would look to see which party had the majority in the House, which party had the majority in the Senate - and whether it had the 60 votes needed to overcome a filibuster, and which party held the White House. Understanding the balance of power and issues facing the nation over the next two years, Members of Congress would get to work figuring out what issues they may be able to come to an agreement on and get passed into law over the next 20 months or so before the next campaign cycle kicked off. Now, after understanding the balance of power in Washington, each party retreats to its corner and begins plotting what their party is going to do over the next two years to create party-preferred laws and keep that majority. If there is unified government that is one party has majorities in both chambers of Congress and the presidency here in the House the Speaker will consider the priorities of the party and decide what issues to make their legislative priorities over the next two years. Ideally, but oftentimes not, this is done with party counterparts in the Senate and - if the same party the White House. If there is divided government, which is the norm having occurred 30 out of the last 40 years, and 39 out of forty considering the filibuster in the Senate, the Speaker plans what the party can do over the next two years to help the party gain unified control of the government with the hope of then passing all of the party's preferred policies. In order to help their party carry out the biennial plan, Members of Congress have given much of their power to represent their constituents in the legislative process to their party leaders. So what has this led to? Gridlock. There are so many issues that need to be addressed that we have failed to act on. Healthcare costs. The federal debt. Immigration. Climate change. The economic and military threat of China. Social Security and Medicare finances. Transportation infrastructure. The continuing decline of good working class jobs. Reforming the War Powers Act. These are just some of the major issues which Congress has been failing to address and I'm sure that are other major ones I just missed. And the one obligation Congress has each year, passing appropriations bills to fund the government, is almost never accomplished on time. Presidents have stepped in to fill the policymaking void and have wielded power to even address issues that were specifically put in the hands of Congress in the Constitution. Increased presidential exercise of power on policy has resulted in policy whipsawing back and forth depending on the presidential administration. Lawmaking by executive order has become the norm. So much so that Saturday Night Live even did a parody of I'm Just a Bill replacing Bill with an executive order. And this President has taken it to a new level. But no matter who the president has been, few of us stand up for our institution; we only criticize presidential overreach when it's a policy that we don't like. And it is not only the president who has gained power because Congress is failing to act. The courts have also stepped in as activists have turned to the judicial system to settle policy issues in the absence of Congress. So what we have now is an imperial presidency and powerful courts with a Congress that largely sits gridlocked. And what happens when we have unified government? The last two times this occurred major policy changes were passed on completely party-line votes. The minority party then attacked the legitimacy of these laws. I'm not saying they were illegitimate, but the framers knew this kind of attack would resonate. In both cases, the House majority was voted out by the American people in the next election. Today, Congress is failing in ways that the framers feared. In Sen. Lamar Alexander's farewell address to the Senate, he defended the filibuster, saying that what is needed to make the Senate work better is not a change of rules but a change of behavior. Unfortunately, in the House, I believe that we need some of both. Over the past four years, I have been a member of the House Problems Solvers Caucus. The caucus is a bipartisan group of about 50 Members, evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. We meet every week, to talk policy and build relationships. Our goal is to work together to get to yes on policies that are good for our country. I've greatly enjoyed the caucus because not only have I been able to build friendships, but was able to participate in a microcosm of what Madison envisioned for the House. The Problem Solvers Caucus don't always succeed in forging compromise because sometimes it's been out of reach, but we have taken on some big issues. I was part of Problem Solvers Caucus working group that was put together after President Trump said he was going to eliminate DACA and then told Speaker Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Schumer that he would help work out a legislative solution to protect these immigrants who were brought to the United States as children the Dreamers. The President never followed through on that, but the caucus believed that there was a bipartisan agreement that we could work out that granted the opportunity for citizenship to millions who we argued were deserving while putting in policies to prevent future illegal immigration. Our working group's meetings usually started at 9 pm because that was the time that everyone was free from every other obligation we have around here. We would get together, Democrats and Republicans, learn from each other and from experts about current law, discuss our views and our constituents' views on what should be done, and honestly work through every minute detail of a compromise. We would work late into the night; a few times I had to run out to catch the last metro train of the night at 11:30 so I could get back to my apartment. It was hard work, but enjoyable. And we came up with a compromise that was endorsed by our bipartisan group of 50 Members; just as we had come up with compromise legislation that same summer which would have helped strengthen the Affordable Care Act and made it more affordable. But in the end, despite our agreement, we could not get legislation on either of these issues to the floor. We had good policy for our nation which probably could have gotten a majority of the House to pass it and possibly been able to get through the Senate with bipartisan support. We got there by bringing our constituents' ideas and interests to the table, debating, deliberating, and forging a compromise, but the rules did not give us an avenue to bring this agreement to the House. In the summer of 2018, when the Problem Solvers Caucus proposed changes to the House rules I said this: Our Constitution empowered the American people by empowering Congress and their representatives. But congressional rules are now rigged in a way that greatly diminishes our ability to represent our constituents. This has resulted in a Congress that doesn't work and is frozen in partisan gridlock, allowing the president and the courts to grab the power that is supposed to be held by the American people. By instituting these proposed reforms we will begin to restore this power, break partisan gridlock, and facilitate congressional problem solving that will help us build a better America for future generations. We made some progress in changing the rules, but much more is still needed. To make this great institution work as it was intended for the American people. Mr. Speaker, the greatness of our nation springs from the founding principles which sound common to us today but were radical for their time. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. I still believe that this is the greatest nation in the history of the world. It's not perfect, because humans aren't perfect and can never be perfected. But we must pray and work every day that each of us and our nation better uphold the principle of equality, and that we better protect life and liberty every day, for all from the very first moment of life to natural death. And with God's grace, we will do that. And we will be that shining city upon the hill for all the world to see and follow. God bless this institution and God bless the United States of America.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-underwood-applauds-department-of-education-announcement-extending-0,"Rush, Underwood Applaud Department of Education Announcement Extending Student Loan Forbearance",2020-12-07,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) and Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.) applaudedthe Department of Education's announcementextending the suspension of loan payments, interest accrual, and involuntary collections on federal student loansthrough January 31, 2021. The announcement follows the successful effort led by Rep. Underwood, joined by Rep. Rush and 90 members of the House of Representatives, urging President Donald J. Trump to use his executive authority to extend federal student loan relief. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unimaginable impact on our nation, particularly those who now find themselves unemployed and out of work due to widespread business closures as companies attempt to navigate this crisis, said. Rep. Rush. I was proud to join Rep. Underwood's effort to call on the President and his administration to extend the suspension of student loan payments in order to provide some relief to those who are financially struggling during these unprecedented times. I have also introduced legislation to further assist struggling students called the Student RELIEF Act, which seeks to alleviate the economic hardships of our nation's most vulnerable families by making Pell Grant students and their families eligible for the $1,200 direct stimulus payments that were not afforded to them by the CARES Act, Rep. Rush continued. Congress must continue to do everything in its power to not only ensure that Americans survive this pandemic, but that they can ultimately thrive when we are on the other side of it. Millions ofstudent loanborrowersarefacingfinancial hardships impacting their abilitytomake student loan payments.Asthe pandemicworsens, we must continue not cut off givingfederal support toborrowers,said Underwood.I'm pleased to see the Department of Educationfinallytake action to extend this critical relief; however,a further extension will still be necessary until theeconomiccrisis brought on pandemic has subsided. A copy of the letter can be found here. On June 22, 2020, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) introduced the Student Recovery Eligibility for Low-Income Individuals to Exact Funds (RELIEF) Act of 2020 (H.R. 7295), which provides low-income students with direct stimulus payments that were previously unavailable to them under the CARES Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-urges-president-trump-join-chorus-those-advocating,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Urges President Trump To Join The Chorus Of Those Advocating For More Funding For COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Efforts,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent a letter to President Trump urging him to actively advocate for more funding for COVID-19 vaccine distribution efforts. Given the promising results of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, the country must ensure that it's adequately prepared to effectively distribute a vaccine. The success of that endeavor will require increased funding from the government. As of now, the CDC has provided $200 million to states for vaccine distribution, but state and local officials have said that is not close to what they will require to properly inoculate their populations. As a result, Congressman Krishnamoorthi expressed his concern and called on President Trump to ensure that states are equipped to execute this important next phase in defeating COVID-19. While Congress must approve additional funding for vaccine distribution efforts before it reaches your desk, the vocal support of the President of the United States will only strengthen the effort to move this funding through Congress, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. Congressman Krishnamoorthi suggested that President Trump take heed of advice from the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM), who have requested at least $8.4 billion for COVID-19 vaccination distribution. The approval of a COVID-19 vaccine will be an enormous step forward in defeating the pandemic, but only through fully funding state and local vaccine distribution efforts will we be able to capitalize on that achievement and bring this dark chapter in our nation's history to a close, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-krishnamoorthi-and-mitchell-lead-coalition-more-70-members,Congressmen Krishnamoorthi and Mitchell Lead Coalition Of More Than 70 Members Requesting College Transparency Acts Inclusion In Omnibus Spending Bill,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Congressman Paul Mitchell led a letter of over 70 Members in the U.S. House of Representatives to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy to request that the College Transparency Act (CTA) be included in the year-end omnibus spending bill. Particularly given that the ongoing financial challenges facing our country may extend years into the future, coupled with growing national student debt, CTA will help students find the programs that best prepare them to enter the workforce with skills employers need by providing them with accurate earnings and employment information on both the institution and program level before they decide where to enroll, what to study, and how to pay for it, the Representatives wrote. The bipartisan legislation amends the existing college reporting system, which is currently incomplete and inefficient since current law prohibits the federal government from collecting and reporting accurate data on student outcomes. The current system leaves millions of American families in the dark without fully understanding the return on investment as they make their decisions concerning this enormous investment in their children's future. Specifically, the College Transparency Act would establish a privacy-protected postsecondary data system at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), which would collect and report on student outcomes such as enrollment, completion, and post-college success to help prospective students determine which programs of study efficiently support their career aspirations. This new data reporting system would be organized by factors such as race, ethnicity, veteran's status, and more. NCES would securely store student information within this data system and work with relevant federal agencies to generate post-college outcomes reports, and would provide a summary of the information in a user-friendly website for students and families. Importantly, this new system would aid institutions of learning and policymakers in their work to improve our country's postsecondary education system, ensure employers have the talent pipeline they need to grow the economy, strengthen equity and access for all Americans to achieve a high-quality education, and allow students and families to make well-informed decisions so that yield a return on their investment. Representatives Andy Barr, Michael Cloud, Mike Gallagher, Roger Marshall, John Moolenaar, Lloyd Smucker, Bryan Steil, Steve Stivers, Steve Watkins, Robert J. Wittman, Danny K. Davis, Vincente Gonzalez, Hank Johnson, Susie Lee, Gregory Meeks, Katie Porter, Albio Sires, Elissa Slotkin, Bennie G. Thompson, Jess G. Chuy Garca, Salud Carbajal, Judy Chu, Matt Cartwright, Dwight Evans, Jared Huffman, Ann M. Kuster, Joseph Morelle, Donald Norcross, Tom O'Halleran, Abigail Spanberger, Paul Tonko, Xochitl Torres Small, Lori Trahan, Nydia M. Velzquez, Ro Khanna, John Joyce, Darin LaHood, Debbie Lesko, Josh Harder, David Trone, Juan Vargas, Marc Veasey, Debbie Dingell, Conor Lamb, Daniel T. Kildee, Lauren Underwood, Emanuel Cleaver II, Henry Cuellar, Adriano Espaillat, John Garamendi, Stephen F. Lynch, Luis Correa, Jason Crow, Ted W. Lieu, Anthony G. Brown, Katherine Clark, Don Beyer, Tony Crdenas, Colin Allred, G.K Butterfield, David Cicilline, Jim Cooper, Eliot L. Engel, Ed Perlmutter, Kathleen Rice, Mary Gay Scanlon, Donna Shalala, Darren Soto, and Dean Phillips joined Congressman Krishnamoorthi and Congressman Mitchell in signing the letter. With overwhelming bipartisan and bicameral support, we strongly believe CTA should be included in an end of year legislative package, such as any appropriations spending measure that passes Congress, the Representatives wrote. With an enacted and operational student-level data system as provided under CTA, students and families, policymakers, institutions of higher education, and employers will have access to more complete information about college access, success, costs, and outcomes so that they can make more informed decisions. The College Transparency Act has broad bipartisan, bicameral support. It has been cosponsored by 234 representatives (151 Democrats and 83 Republicans), and it has 37 cosponsors in the Senate (20 Republicans and 17 Democrats). The legislation also has the support of over 200 civil rights, youth, business, veterans, education, and workforce development organizations. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-statement-on-the-51st-anniversary-of-the-murder-of-fred-hampton,Rush Statement on the 51st Anniversary of the Murder of Fred Hampton,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) submitted the following extension of remarks to the Congressional Record regarding the murder of his friend and former colleague, Fred Hampton, Chairman and co-founder of the Illinois Black Panther Party: Madam Speaker, you can kill the revolutionary, but you cannot kill the revolution. These were the words my late comrade and best friend Fred Hampton, the Chairman and co-founder of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party spoke and lived by. In a year that has seen too many Black lives unjustly taken, Chairman Fred's words, life, and legacy remain just as vital to our understanding of justice today as they were on the date of his assassination on December 4th, 1969. Chairman Fred was both a visionary and a revolutionary, who fought for a more just world for everyone. I had the distinct privilege of recruiting and working alongside Fred during our righteous struggle for the liberation and emancipation of the people who had been ignored by those in power for far too long. We encouraged community development and empowerment through programs that included community health clinics and an expansive free breakfast for children program, finally delivering critical social services to long underserved communities. We also helped broker a peace agreement between Chicago's street gangs, reducing violence in the city's most marginalized neighborhoods. Furthermore, the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party joined forces with the Latino Young Lords organization, and the Young Patriots, an organization of poor whites living in Chicago's Uptown community. Together, we formed the original Rainbow Coalition to fight all economic oppression. This watershed organization assembled a working-class coalition to fight for our shared interests, despite the fact that we were working in one of the most segregated cities in the United States. We banded together to fight many of the issues that still plague us to this very day, including police brutality, substandard housing, mediocre education, and low-quality health care. In the early hours of December 4th, 51 years ago, the Chicago Police Department with the cooperation, coordination, and support of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cook County State's Attorney entered an apartment on West Monroe Street that seven members of the Black Panther Party were staying in, with the premeditated aim of murdering Fred Hampton. The police immediately opened fire, killing Fred as he lay in his bed alongside his pregnant girlfriend, Akua Njeri. Our fellow Black Panther Party Member Mark Clark was also killed in the raid. There but for the grace of God, on that dreadful night, go I. In fact, my apartment was raided during the early hours the very next morning, December 5th, 1969. Madam Speaker, through meticulous work we were able to prove that the official narrative of that night, that Hampton and Clark were killed in a vicious firefight, was entirely a falsehood. The police and State's Attorney claimed that they engaged in a fierce battle with the Panthers, but investigators were able to determine that the police fired 99 bullets while the Panthers only fired one. A civil lawsuit would further reveal that the FBI's Counter-Intelligence Program, or COINTELPRO, helped plan the murder of Fred Hampton. William O'Neil, an FBI informant within the Party, provided floor plans of the apartment to the FBI, who provided them to the State's Attorney and Chicago Police Department. An autopsy found a massive dose of the barbiturate Seconal in Chairman Fred's bloodstream, powerful enough to sedate an elephant. J. Edgar Hoover's FBI viewed the Black Panther Party movement Fred and I helped start to liberate our brothers and sisters who were suffering from divestment, lack of health care, and police brutality as the number one threat to the national security of America. This country's government planned the assassination the political assassination of one of our nation's brightest young leaders. To my recollection, the murder of Fred Hampton is the only time federal law enforcement conspired to carry out the political assassination of an American citizen on United States soil, a truly shameful moment in the history of our country. This was a systemic campaign to violently disrupt a movement seeking justice and freedom for the most marginalized among us. This should remind all of us that Black lives have never been fully valued by many of those in this country's power structures. Too often, justice is not sought for the families of those whose lives are senselessly taken by the state. Madam Speaker, when the South Side of Chicago's very own Ida B. Wells published her seminal investigative journalism on lynching in America, she found that many lynchings occurred because the victims posed a threat to the white supremacist status quo. One of her best friends was killed for merely operating a successful grocery store that competed with neighboring white businesses. While the killings Ida B. Wells examined were not political assassinations like the murder of Fred Hampton, they share a common thread. Both challenged the white supremacist status quo in their communities. Fred Hampton profoundly challenged this status quo by fiercely advocating for economic and social dignity for all people, and by providing long overdue social services to the most neglected communities in Chicago. Fred Hampton's challenge to the status quo proposed nothing less than a demand for full civil rights and economic opportunity for all those whose talents, dreams, and goals had long been stifled. This was a scary proposition to those like State's Attorney Hanrahan and FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, who would stop at nothing to maintain the unjust status quo that prevailed in Chicago and throughout the United States in December of 1969. Fred Hampton gave his life to help create a more fundamentally fair and equal nation for every American, consistent with our nation's founding principles. Sadly, Madam Speaker, too often it appears that for Black Americans merely existing can be seen as a challenge to the white, racist power structure. And sadly, as Ida B. Wells found in 1892, the consequences can be just as gruesome. Ahmaud Arbery was 25 years old when he was gunned down for merely jogging in what his killers deemed to be the wrong neighborhood. Despite this incident taking place in February of this year, and a video being available, neither of the men now charged with the murder of Ahmaud Arbery were arrested until May. If not for a report by The New York Times that helped lead to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's intervention in the matter, Mr. Arbery's killers may never have faced justice. Ahmaud Arbery's death was a lynching, which occurred because two white men felt uncomfortable with his jogging though their neighborhood. One of the most recent in far too long a line of lynch mob killings of Black people in the United States. Madam Speaker, Congress must act promptly to ensure that no one who participates in such acts of terror and hatred can escape justice. As introduced, my bill, the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, would designate lynching as federal hate crime. This would apply whether or not those committing the offense were acting under the color of law. By designating lynching as a federal hate crime, the United States Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation would be compelled to investigate a case like Ahmaud Arbery's. The Emmett Till Antilynching Act honors the legacy of Emmett Till, who was brutally murdered in Money, Mississippi, in 1955. His death helped spark this country's civil rights movement, but his murderers never faced justice, as they were acquitted at a sham trial in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi. Passing the Emmett Till Antilynching Act would ensure that the full force of the United States Federal Government is always brought to prosecute those who commit the monstrous act of lynching. We have the opportunity to finally, after 120 years and 200 attempts since Congressman George Henry White of North Carolina introduced the first anti-lynching legislation, make lynching a federal crime. In fact, Ida B. Wells herself advocated for the administration of President William McKinley to push for anti-lynching reforms all the way back in 1898. Passage of the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act into law would demonstrate that this country understands the heinous legacy of lynching and begin the process of finally closing this shameful chapter of our history. Madam Speaker, let us never forget the courage, conviction, and compassion of Fred Hampton. Despite this government assassinating him at only 21 years of age, Chairman Fred's work and legacy are everlasting. Let our work in Congress be guided by his legacy of pursuing freedom and justice for all people. That work can begin by sending the Emmet Till Antilynching Act to the President's desk, an act that would require action by our colleagues in the Senate. That would be a clear demonstration that Congress has begun to value the Black lives, including Fred Hampton's, Emmett Till's, Ahmaud Arbery's, and the countless others whose lives have been systemically devalued for far too long.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-elected-top-republican-veterans-affairs-committee,BOST ELECTED TOP REPUBLICAN ON VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,Senate,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) has been elected by his House Republican colleagues to serve as the lead Republican on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, tasked with setting the party's agenda on veterans issues and leading oversight efforts of the administration. Should Republicans gain the majority in Congress in the next election, Bost would be in line to become the chairman of the full committee. As a Marine and the father of a Marine, I can think of no greater honor than fighting for America's veterans as the lead Republican on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. I am grateful for the trust of my Republican colleagues and excited to follow in the footsteps of great leaders like Jeff Miller and Phil Roe, said Bost. We will work to implement an aggressive, pro-veteran agenda that builds upon the successes of the MISSION Act, appeals reform, and combatting veterans' suicide. Our veterans have borne the battle in defense of our freedoms, and I view it as my mission to ensure they receive the care and services they deserve. Our nation's veterans have served their nation with distinction and courage, and they deserve leaders in Washington who will strive to meet their level of dedication, said House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA). Mike has served his country as a Marine, and his community as a firefighter - I have no doubt that as Ranking Member of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, he will continue to lead from the front by addressing the unique challenges facing our veterans. He has a results-proven track record, which includes passing the Veterans Appeals and Modernization Act of 2017, which streamlined the appeals process, and helped to decrease the appeals backlog by 80%. I am confident Mike will be an ally to our veterans and serve as the strong leader they need who will commit to looking out for their best interests. I congratulate my colleague and good friend, Rep. Bost, on being chosen by the Republican conference to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs for the 117th Congress, said Dr. Phil Roe (R-TN), the retiring top Republican on the committee. As a Marine veteran, Mike brings vital first-hand experience and understanding to the table and has been a fighting force for our fellow brothers and sisters in arms since joining the Committee. I have no doubt that he will continue to serve our nation's veterans well and build on the many bipartisan accomplishments we have already made on their behalf. It has been a great honor to lead this Committee and I am proud to pass the torch to the gentleman from Illinois. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/under-pressure-from-bustos-trump-extends-national-guard-covid-19-response-efforts/,"Under Pressure from Bustos, Trump Extends National Guard COVID-19 Response Efforts",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bustos-led letter called on President Trump to fully restore federal funding as expiration loomed WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) issued the following statement after President Trump announced that he will extend National Guard activations for COVID-19 response efforts through March 31, 2021. Current activations were set to expire at the end of the year. Without an extension, states would have been forced to grapple with a gap in federal funding for relief efforts, stand down members of the National Guard and potentially shutter desperately needed COVID-19 response services. The announcement, however, also extends a 25-percent cut to federal funding for deployment, following the Trump Administration's 100-percent coverage earlier this year. While today's decision to extend the service of our women and men in the National Guard is essential, it simply doesn't go far enough. As they face what may be one of the deadliest winters in American history, cash-strapped states are still forced to navigate federal funding cuts to the costs of National Guard deployments. On its way out the door, this Administration continues to financially burden struggling states. While the pandemic wreaks havoc on our nation, they callously turn a blind eye to the impact that rising COVID-19 cases has on our communities. Ultimately, their decision to extend cuts to federal funding for state deployments also takes a toll on our cities and towns, and it is American families who suffer. Thankfully, President-elect Biden has already pledged to fully fund the efforts of our neighbors in uniform a commonsense measure that should never have been in question. In the meantime, these unforeseen expenses will spread state resources thin at a dire time. That's why I introduced legislation earlier this year to require the Trump Administration to cover the full costs of National Guard COVID-19 response efforts. I'll continue to hold this Administration accountable in its final days and fight for the Soldiers and Airmen who have played a critical role in protecting the health of our nation. BACKGROUND In response to the COVID-19 crisis, members of the National Guard have been deployed across the country to assist with public health responses. Last week, Congresswoman Bustos sent a letter to President Trump calling on him to fully restore federal funding for the National Guard's COVID-19 response efforts, which were set to expire at the end of the year and as the nation prepares for what may be one of the deadliest winters in American history. Bustos also praised President-elect Joe Biden's pledge to provide federal support for these efforts. Earlier in the year, the Trump Administration covered 100 percent of the associated costs for deployment. In August, the Administration stripped states of millions of dollars of support when it announced it would no longer cover the full costs, forcing many states and territories to cover 25 percent of National Guard deployment, while making an unexplained exception exclusively for Florida, Texas, Arizona, Connecticut and California. Now, they are forcing every state to cover 25 percent of the costs. Representatives Cheri Bustos, Max Rose and Deb Haaland introduced legislation in August that would force the Trump Administration to cover the full cost of National Guard deployments for COVID-19 response efforts throughout the nation to ensure every state and territory is treated equally. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-calls-wh-counsel-answers-anti-bribery-safeguards,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Calls On WH Counsel For Answers On Anti-Bribery Safeguards Around Pardons As Well As President Trumps Reported Exploration Of Pardoning Rudy Giuliani, His Own Family, And Himself",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi wrote to White House Counsel Pat Cipollone asking for information regarding President Trump's pardon of former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, safeguards against potential bribery schemes, and whether future pardons were possible for President Trump's associates, family members, and or even himself. President Trump announced the pardon of General Flynn on November 25. This pardon protects General Flynn from further legal actions against him regarding his 2017 guilty plea on lying to the FBI about his conversations with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. In his letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi noted his concern with the political nature of this pardon given that the official White House statement cited President Trump's vexation with the investigation into Russia's 2016 election interference. President Trump has used his pardon power for political and personal connections many times rather than for clemency petitions brought through the established channels. Congressman Krishnamoorthi introduced the Presidential Pardon Transparency Act last year in order to increase the transparency of the pardon power. This act would require that the Attorney General publish the name, date, and full text of a presidential pardon no later than three days after it's issued. While this legislation has yet to become law, a wave of presidential pardons is expected in the remaining weeks of the Trump Administration, and I want to ensure that there is maximum transparency regarding each one, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. In terms of future pardons possible in the remaining weeks of the Trump Administration, President Trump has reportedly expressed interest in pre-emptively pardoning his family members and possibly himself. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested details on future potential pardons and whether any misconduct or irregularities were occurring in the decision-making process. I am concerned that President Trump will use his remaining few weeks in office to pardon his personal associates including Rudy Giuliani who has reportedly directly requested one from the President as well as family members, and even himself, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested the following information from the White House Counsel: In the coming weeks, is the White House committed to publicly announcing all presidential pardons prior to their issuance, including the names of recipients and the full text of each pardon? Please describe the process by which the White House is vetting potential presidential pardon candidates. Please provide a list of the individuals involved in providing guidance and advice to President Trump on the pardon of Michael Flynn and potential future pardons. Is the White House reviewing any requests for pardons from the President's advisors or legal team members, such as Rudy Giuliani? Are there any safeguards in place to shield the pardon process from bribery or coercion? Is the White House reviewing potential pardons for the President or any of his family members? If so, please provide the names of these individuals. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-s-big-cat-public-safety-act-end-private-ownership-dangerous-big,Quigleys Big Cat Public Safety Act to End Private Ownership of Dangerous Big Cats Passes House,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley's (IL-05) legislation the bipartisan Big Cat Public Safety Act passed the House of Representatives. The Big Cat Public Safety Act, which was co-sponsored by more than half of the House, prohibits the private ownership of big cats like lions and tigers and curbs the exploitative industry of cub-petting. After months of the public loudly and clearly calling for Congress to end private big cat ownership, I am extremely pleased that the House has now passed the Big Cat Public Safety Act. Big cats are wild animals that simply do not belong in private homes, backyards, or shoddy roadside zoos. Too often, law enforcement and first responders are the ones who end up in danger from these animals and, in a time when our first responders are already facing increased risk from the pandemic, we owe it to them to limit the additional dangers they face on the job, said Quigley. Animals like tigers, lions, leopards, and pumas should not be exposed to miserable conditions so many of them in our country currently face. By passing the Big Cat Public Safety Act we are one step closer to ensuring these animals are treated humanely and to keeping the public safe from dangerous big cats. It is my hope that the Senate will quickly bring this bill to the floor so we can get it signed into law before the year ends."" I am pleased to see the House passed our Big Cat Public Safety Act today. For too long, big cats have been mistreated, exploited, and abused in private roadside zoos, said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). As a member of the bipartisan Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, I'm committed to ensuring our government is doing its part to promote animal welfare. It is crucial we stand up for animals, both as individuals and as a society, and our legislation takes an incredible step to protect all animals. This spring, the Netflix series Tiger King brought increased public attention to the dangers of unaccredited animal parks and led to a surge in support for the Big Cat Public Safety Act. The bill was endorsed by over 60 law enforcement organizations, zoos, animal sanctuaries, and animal welfare and environmental organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Sheriff Association, the Humane Society of the United States, the Animal Welfare Institute, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and Animal Wellness Action. We have seen the shocking news reports of a tiger being removed from a tiny apartment in Harlem, a sheriff's department forced to shoot lions running along a highway, and a teenager killed as she posed with a tiger for a class portrait. We have also witnessed heartbreaking footage of infant cubs pulled from their mothers to be exploited for profit, and huge tigers pacing neurotically in small, barren backyard cages. The trade in big cats is a tragedy and a national embarrassment. We commend the House for passing the Big Cat Public Safety Act and we hope the Senate will swiftly follow suit, said Cathy Liss, president of the Animal Welfare Institute. Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States, said Long before Tiger King,' Joe Exotic and dozens of others like him were under our scrutiny due to their abuse of tigers -- both adults and cubs. While the world of private tiger ownership thrives in the shadows with little mandatory documentation, we estimate that hundreds of tigers across the country are kept as pets and money-making props by roadside zoos, pseudo-sanctuaries and cub-petting operations. They are often torn from their mother moments after birth, hit, dragged, and forced into photo ops, and live in squalid conditions. This is a public safety disaster. Congress must pass The Big Cat Public Safety Act to put an end to this cycle of misery, abuse, and danger once and for all. Sara Amundson, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund said, Whether it's Joe Exotic, Doc Antle or Joe Blow doing it, it makes no sense to permit private individuals to keep big cats captive for pleasure or profit. Passage of the Big Cat Public Safety Act by the U.S. House will help end the public safety hazards associated with private ownership, prohibit public contact based on snatching infant cubs from their mothers for pay to play' and selfie-taking operations, and cripple the shady networks that put these endangered animals at risk of being killed for the wildlife products trade. Now it's up to the U.S. Senate to pass the bill and put the cruelty depicted in Tiger King' on the trash heap of history where it belongs. Big cats are amazing, but best viewed at a distance in the wild or through a sound barrier at an accredited zoo, said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action. Breeding them for the pet trade or for cub petting is a hazard for people and the animals, and we give a big roar of approval to Reps. Quigley and Fitzpatrick for leading the way on getting the bill passed today in the House. We're one step closer to ending the private possession of big cats in this country. Tigers, lions, and other big cats have complex psychological and physical needs and simply cannot thrive in someone's backyard or basement. The Animal Legal Defense Fund is grateful for the leadership of the bill's sponsors for today's victory on behalf of animals, said Animal Legal Defense Fund Executive Director, Stephen Wells. By passing the Big Cat Public Safety Act, the U.S. House has taken a critical step forward in safeguarding wildlife and people alike said Carson Barylak, Campaigns Manager at the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). We thank the sponsors and supporters of this important legislation for taking action to advance animal welfare and conservation while protecting first responders and communities across the U.S. Nine years ago, in Zanesville Ohio, we witnessed the horrific consequences of a private individual possessing big cats and other dangerous wild animals. The result was a national tragedy not only for the owner and the animals but also for local law enforcement who were forced to quickly handle the situation without proper knowledge or resources. I look back on that day and am grateful for how far we have come thanks to Congressman Quigley, Congressman Fitzpatrick, and the many other animal welfare champions in Congress. We applaud the House for standing for animal welfare and public safety by passing the Big Cat Public Safety Act and encourage the Senate to swiftly take up the bill before the end of the year, said Angela Grimes, CEO of Born Free USA. More information on the bill is available HERE.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-introduces-legislation-to-invest-100-billion-in-nation-s-youth,Rush Introduces Legislation to Invest $100 Billion in Nations Youth Workforce,2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"Today, Congressman Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) announced the introduction of the Jobs Now Youth Employment Act (H.R. 8839), which would require the Department of Labor to make increased funds available for youth workforce investment activities in areas experiencing especially high rates of long-term unemployment. These activities would include conducting research related to meeting the education and employment needs of eligible youth, as well as the supporting of career services and financial literacy programs for young people from struggling and often overlooked communities. Even before the current pandemic, we have known that the pandemic of unemployment has had an outsized impact on marginalized and other underserved communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has only served to worsen this crisis and increase the injustice and inequities being suffered by the most vulnerable members of our society, said. Rep. Rush. In particular, America's youth is often overlooked when we consider solutions for increasing employment and many of our young people, out of sheer desperation, turn to less legitimate measures in order to provide for themselves and their families. Idle hands are the devil's workshop, and I have long held that lack of access to resources is one of the key factors in determining whether otherwise upright citizens may turn towards a life of malfeasance and misdoing. I am confident that if we provide those living in poverty, particularly the younger members of our society, with the resources they need to adequately enter the workforce, as well as the financial literacy tools they require to create and maintain wealth, the benefits to our society at large will be abundant. That is exactly why I have introduced the Jobs Now Youth Employment act, which will provide our young people with essential resources to enter the workforce and escape the cycle of poverty. The Jobs Now Youth Employment Act directs the Secretary of Labor to make financial resources available to local areas based on the relative number of long-term unemployed individuals in each local area, compared to the total number of long-term unemployed individuals in all local areas, for the purposes of investing in youth workforce investment activities. These activities include: Conducting research related to meeting the education and employment needs of eligible youth; Supporting the development of alternative evidence-based programs that enhance the choices available to eligible youth; Supporting career services; Supporting financial literacy; and Providing technical assistance to eligible entities working to support youth workforce investment. The Jobs Now Youth Employment Act authorizes $10 billion dollars each year, over the course of the first ten years of the bill's enactment, to be appropriated for youth investment activities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-helps-pass-grain-standards-reauthorization-act/,Bustos Helps Pass Grain Standards Reauthorization Act,2020-12-02,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, helped pass the U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act, which authorizes the Federal Grain Inspection Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to establish marketing standards like weight and quality for certain grains and oilseeds including corn, soybeans, wheat and more. This legislation would re-establish a clear and fair set of guidelines for buyers and producers to follow in order get their goods to market. Illinois is home to some of the best farmers in the world who produce products of the highest quality and help feed folks around the globe they deserve a fair playing field, said Congresswoman Bustos. The Grain Standards Reauthorization Act is critical to providing them with the support and certainty they need to remain competitive after facing years of unpredictable weather and reckless trade wars under the current Administration. I was pleased to see it pass with broad bipartisan support today and will continue to fight to strengthen our rural economy. The current authorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act is set to expire on December 11, 2020. The U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2020, which has already passed the Senate, would provide a reauthorization until September 30, 2025. It is expected to be signed into law by President Trump. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/rep-bustos-welcomes-rep-mast-as-new-co-chair-of-bipartisan-air-cargo-caucus-for-the-117th-congress/,Rep. Bustos Welcomes Rep. Mast as New Co-Chair of Bipartisan Air Cargo Caucus for the 117th Congress,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17), Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-MI-10), Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL-18) and Gina Zuckerman of the Cargo Airline Association made the following statement announcing Rep. Mast will be the new Co-Chair of the bipartisan Air Cargo Caucus in the 117th Congress: I thank Representative Mitchell for his bipartisan partnership and service as Co-Chair of the Air Cargo Caucus, said Air Cargo Caucus Co-Chair Representative Bustos. It has been a pleasure working with him to create a platform for our region's leaders to share best practices and connect with folks from across America to advance issues related to the industry. As we prepare for the next Congress, I look forward to serving alongside Representative Mast and welcome him to this new role. I am excited for the future of this caucus. The air cargo industry is a vital part of the global economy, and without it 21st century commerce would not be what it is today. As a Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I had the opportunity to work with many air cargo stakeholders and focus on related policy issues, said Air Cargo Caucus Co-Chair Representative Mitchell. That is why I co-founded the Air Cargo Caucus with Rep. Bustos. This caucus plays an important role in our work as Representatives, and while my time in Congress and as Co-Chair is coming to an end, I know the caucus is in good hands with Rep. Mast. I thank Co-Chair Bustos for being an excellent partner in this effort, as well as all the stakeholders and staff for lending their expertise. There's no doubt that the air cargo industry is a critical component of our local, state, and global economies. In Florida alone, the industry supports more than 625,000 jobs and creates over $4 billion in revenue. These numbers are only going to grow larger as our national and global economies expand, which is what makes the Air Cargo Caucus so important, Representative Mast said. Thank you to Representatives Mitchell and Bustos for entrusting me with the role of co-chair. There is a lot of work to be done, and I could not be more excited to get started! We are thankful for Representative Mitchell's leadership that enabled the Air Cargo Caucus to thrive since its formation in 2019 and look forward to working with Representative Mast as he assumes his new co-chair role, said Gina Zuckerman, Vice President of Legislative Policy for the Cargo Airline Association. The Air Cargo Caucus is proof that a bipartisan group of Members can coalesce in support of a shared topic, and we anticipate growing its ranks in the 117th Congress as the Caucus continues to highlight the impact that air cargo plays throughout the country. BACKGROUND The Air Cargo Caucus was launched in March 2019 by Rep. Bustos and Rep. Mitchell. The bipartisan House of Representatives caucus has 42 members and was formed to enhance relations with the all-cargo community, give Members the opportunity to specialize on issues impacting carriers, and allow collaboration on these issues with fellow Members of Congress. It helps educate Members and staff about the air cargo industry and the impact is has on regions, the nation, and the world. In July 2019, Rep. Mitchell announced he would not seek reelection and that at the end of the 116th Congress he would retire from Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/the-futures-of-our-women-and-men-in-the-national-guard-are-left-in-limbo-bustos-statement-on-pences-promise-to-press-trump-to-restore-federal-funding-for-national-guard-cov-2/,The Futures of our Women and Men in the National Guard are Left in Limbo: Bustos Statement on Pences Promise to Press Trump to Restore Federal Funding for National Guard COVID-19 Response Efforts,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bustos-led letter calls on President Trump to fully restore federal funding as expiration looms WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) released the following statement in response to reports that Vice President Pence promised a group of governors that he would press President Trump to extend federal funding for National Guard COVID-19 response efforts, which are set to expire at the end of the year and was requested by Congresswoman Bustos last week. Although this Administration is notorious for empty rhetoric and broken promises, I truly hope Vice President Pence kept his word to our nation's governors; rarely has our nation seen so much at stake during a transfer of presidential power. In the face of a raging pandemic, cash-strapped states have been forced to scrape together resources due to the White House's utter failure to provide support, while the futures of our women and men in the National Guard are left in limbo. As we prepare for what could be one of the deadliest winters in American history, President-elect Biden has already pledged to fully fund the efforts of our neighbors in uniform the current Administration must step up to ensure that states aren't left to grapple with a potential gap in funding. President Trump must immediately extend federal support for COVID-19 response efforts of our National Guard, so that ongoing efforts may continue uninterrupted. To protect the health of our people and our nation, states must not be left to shutter desperately needed COVID-19 response services, and our service men and women must continue their critical work in our nation's fight against this pandemic. I am calling on President Trump to do the right thing: immediately and fully extend federal funding for National Guard COVID-19 response deployments beyond the end of this year. BACKGROUND In response to the COVID-19 crisis, members of the National Guard have been deployed across the country to assist with public health responses. Last week, Congresswoman Bustos sent a letter to President Trump calling on him to fully restore federal funding for the National Guard's COVID-19 response efforts, which are set to expire at the end of the year and as the nation prepares for what may be one of the deadliest winters in American history. Bustos also praised President-elect Joe Biden's pledge to provide federal support for these efforts. Earlier in the year, the Trump Administration covered 100 percent of the associated costs for deployment. In August, the Administration stripped states of millions of dollars of support when it announced it would no longer cover the full costs, forcing many states to states and territories to cover 25 percent of National Guard deployment, while making an unexplained exception exclusively for Florida, Texas, Arizona, Connecticut and California. You can read full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/the-futures-of-our-women-and-men-in-the-national-guard-are-left-in-limbo-bustos-statement-on-pences-promise-to-press-trump-to-restore-federal-funding-for-national-guard-cov/,The Futures of our Women and Men in the National Guard are Left in Limbo: Bustos Statement on Pences Promise to Press Trump to Restore Federal Funding for National Guard COVID-19 Response Efforts,2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Bustos-led letter calls on President Trump to fully restore federal funding as expiration looms WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) released the following statement in response to reports that Vice President Pence promised a group of governors that he would press President Trump to extend federal funding for National Guard COVID-19 response efforts, which are set to expire at the end of the year and was requested by Congresswoman Bustos last week. Although this Administration is notorious for empty rhetoric and broken promises, I truly hope Vice President Pence kept his word to our nation's governors; rarely has our nation seen so much at stake during a transfer of presidential power. In the face of a raging pandemic, cash-strapped states have been forced to scrape together resources due to the White House's utter failure to provide support, while the futures of our women and men in the National Guard are left in limbo. As we prepare for what could be one of the deadliest winters in American history, President-elect Biden has already pledged to fully fund the efforts of our neighbors in uniform the current Administration must step up to ensure that states aren't left to grapple with a potential gap in funding. President Trump must immediately extend federal support for COVID-19 response efforts of our National Guard, so that ongoing efforts may continue uninterrupted. To protect the health of our people and our nation, states must not be left to shutter desperately needed COVID-19 response services, and our service men and women must continue their critical work in our nation's fight against this pandemic. I am calling on President Trump to do the right thing: immediately and fully extend federal funding for National Guard COVID-19 response deployments beyond the end of this year. BACKGROUND In response to the COVID-19 crisis, members of the National Guard have been deployed across the country to assist with public health responses. Last week, Congresswoman Bustos sent a letter to President Trump calling on him to fully restore federal funding for the National Guard's COVID-19 response efforts, which are set to expire at the end of the year and as the nation prepares for what may be one of the deadliest winters in American history. Bustos also praised President-elect Joe Biden's pledge to provide federal support for these efforts. Earlier in the year, the Trump Administration covered 100 percent of the associated costs for deployment. In August, the Administration stripped states of millions of dollars of support when it announced it would no longer cover the full costs, forcing many states to states and territories to cover 25 percent of National Guard deployment, while making an unexplained exception exclusively for Florida, Texas, Arizona, Connecticut and California. You can read full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6567,Congressman Lipinski Remembers Staffer Zac Plantz,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Judy and I were heartbroken to hear of the passing of my staff member and friend, Zac Plantz. The world has lost an incredible young man whose life was tragically cut too short. After I brought Zac into my campaign last year, I quickly learned what a gifted young man he was and made him my Campaign Manager. He was a proud Notre Dame graduate who had a contagious energy about him that lifted up those who interacted with him. He was smart, thoughtful, respectful, and charismatic. Talking to Zac always brightened your day. He was smart, witty, and had an impressive ability to inject light-hearted humor into a conversation to put things in perspective or just to make you smile. After the campaign, Zac joined my congressional staff as Senior Policy Advisor. In that role he was passionate about bringing people together, serving the community, and making a difference in the lives of residents of Illinois's 3rd Congressional District. Zac truly wanted to serve others. Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents Ron and Laura, his siblings Logan, Tyler, and Abby, his girlfriend Kathleen, and all of Zac's family and friends during this difficult time.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://shimkus.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lithuanian-leaders-thank-local-congressman,Lithuanian Leaders Thank Local Congressman,2020-11-30,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,IL,John Shimkus,S000364,shimkus.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Lithuania's Seimas unanimously adopted a resolution last week honoring retiring Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15). John Shimkus was one of the most active congressmen in persuading the U.S. Congress to liberalize trade in liquefied natural gas and approve NATO's defense plans for the Baltic States, in countering Russia's aggression against Ukraine, in proclaiming and regularly commemorating Black Ribbon Day at the U.S. Congress, in fighting against the Kremlin's hostile propaganda and disinformation, in establishing the American-Lithuanian Business Council, and launching a host of other initiatives of support to the Baltic States, the resolution from the European nation's legislature read. Introduced by more than 20 Lithuanian lawmakers from different political parties, the resolution also noted the congressman's Lithuanian heritage as well as his service as a U.S. Army Officer in Europe during the Cold War. Successfully advocating for NATO expansion to include the Baltic States has been one of my proudest achievements as a Member of Congress, Shimkus said. Growing that defensive alliance, and supporting the former Soviet states' ability to look to the West for freedom, prosperity, and security remains in the best interest of both Europe and the United States. I thank my friends in the Seimas for this great honor and for their friendship over many years. Shimkus announced his retirement from Congress last summer after serving 23 years in the House of Representatives. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/day-thanks,A day of thanks,2020-11-26,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"On the fourth Thursday of November, Americans from all backgrounds gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving. While Thanksgiving takes on a different meaning and form this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's important that we join together in spirit to share in our collective thanks for the opportunities and relationships we enjoy. Now, more than ever, we should remind ourselves that we cannot take these blessings for granted. As we prepare for our Thanksgiving meal this afternoon, I am thankful for my three sons, McKay, Lucas, and Teddy, my loving wife Kristen, and our home in central and west-central Illinois. I am especially grateful for my family's good health this year, the health care professionals working hard to fight COVID-19, the essential workers, and the brave men and women serving in our military overseas so that we can enjoy the comforts of living in the greatest country in the world. While we are all blessed with a wonderful community, it is important during this season of thanks to not forget those who are less fortunate. This year has been a challenge for so many across Illinois, and those of us who are able should take time during the holiday season to return our blessings and find a way to give back to those in need. While we may not be able to gather with friends to play football or gather with everyone in our extended family in person, please take a moment to stop and reflect on what you are thankful for today. We are all blessed to live in a country that allows each of us the freedom to chart our own path and to live out the American dream. For that, we should all be thankful. I hope you all have a blessed Thanksgiving and remain healthy and safe! Sincerly, Darin LaHood",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-durbin-duckworth-loebsack-secure-new-initiative-to-bolster-staffing-at-usp-thomson/,"BUSTOS, DURBIN, DUCKWORTH, LOEBSACK SECURE NEW INITIATIVE TO BOLSTER STAFFING AT USP THOMSON",2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representatives Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17) and Dave Loebsack (D-IA-02), with U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), applauded the Bureau of Prisons' (BOP) approval of a 25 percent relocation and recruitment incentive for all departments at Thomson Prison. This new incentive will be made available to new employees at the agency and existing employees who choose to transfer to Thomson. It builds upon the lawmakers' work to bolster staffing at the facility, such as advocating for increased locality pay, direct hire authority and proper precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The bonus also requires a service commitment from the applicant which includes one year for recruitment and two years for relocation. This is an important step forward in bringing new talent to Thomson in order to address their staffing needs, said Congresswoman Bustos. Initiatives like this help strengthen the workforce, ensure the facility can compete with others in the region and support the surrounding community's economy. I thank my colleagues for their partnership on this issue and will continue to work alongside them to put forward initiatives to recruit and retain staff. This is a positive step forward in our effort to bring additional staff to USP Thomson. It will make the prison a safer place to work, especially as staff and incarcerated individuals at USP Thomson face the dangers associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Durbin said. Low staffing numbers at the Thomson federal prison have led to long hours and overworked staff, presenting significant risk to staff, inmates and the surrounding community, Senator Duckworth said. I'm glad the Bureau of Prisons has agreed to our request to incentivize qualified staff to pursue new career opportunities at Thomson and for existing staff to remain at Thomson, which will help improve staffing levels and overall safety at the prison especially in light of the ongoing pandemic. Understaffing has long been an issue for Thomson Prison, placing undue burden on the hardworking men and women who run the facility, said Congressman Loebsack. This welcomed announcement will help bring in additional qualified employees. I am pleased to have worked with my colleagues and officials at the Bureau of Prisons to approve Thomson Prison for a 25 percent recruitment and relocation incentive. It is imperative that staffing levels are met and qualified applicants are needed to safely and effectively run the prison. In addition to today's announcement, the lawmakers wrote to BOP in August requesting that correctional officers at USP Thomson be provided a 25 percent retention bonus, aligned with the request of AFGE Local 4070. They have also routinely worked with, and called on, BOP to prioritize the staffing needs of the institution in order to maintain safe staffing levels amid the COVID-19 public health crisis. The lawmakers have also called on BOP and the Office of Personnel and Management to grant Thomson Prison direct hire authority in order to cut through a backlog of applications and speed up the hiring process. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congresswoman Bustos included language in the Commerce, Justice and Science appropriations package to encourage the Bureau of Prisons to continue seeking direct hire authority for Thomson Prison. She also included a provision in the Financial Services and General Government appropriations package that encourages the Office of Personnel Management to grant direct hire authority for facilities like Thomson. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-expresses-concern-over-allegations-chinese,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Expresses Concern Over Allegations Of Chinese Construction Along Disputed Border With India,2020-11-24,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement in response to a CNN report of satellite images appearing to show that the People's Republic of China has built up an area along the disputed border with India, a region which was the site of an extended standoff in 2017: I am aware of and concerned with the public reports surrounding Chinese military construction along the disputed border with India. If these reports are true, and I hope they are not, China's continued military provocations will continue to escalate tensions in the region. The United States will always continue to stand with our Indian partners in the Indo-Pacific region while opposing any revisionist efforts by the Chinese government or anyone else to challenge peace and stability. In July, the U.S. House passed its annual National Defense Authorization Act which included Congressman Krishnamoorthi's bipartisan amendment calling for an end to Chinese aggression toward India along the Line of Actual Control.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-urges-trump-to-restore-federal-funding-for-national-guard-covid-19-response-efforts-as-expiration-looms-and-nation-prepares-for-deadly-winter/,Bustos Urges Trump to Restore Federal Funding for National Guard COVID-19 Response Efforts as Expiration Looms and Nation Prepares for Deadly Winter,2020-11-23,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"Applauds Biden pledge for federal support WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) sent a letter to President Trump calling on him to fully restore federal funding for the National Guard's COVID-19 response efforts which are set to expire at the end of the year and as the nation prepares for what may be one of the deadliest winters in American history. Bustos praised President-elect Joe Biden's pledge to provide federal support for these efforts, announced last week. Throughout this pandemic, the Trump Administration has put forward an inexplicable piecemeal approach, which has placed the benefits of our men and women in the National Guard in jeopardy, forced cash-strapped states to cover costs and lacked the consistency in leadership this moment demands, said Congresswoman Bustos. With the confirmed case count growing exponentially across the nation and the activation of National Guard deployment set to expire at the end of the year, I am once again calling on the Trump Administration to immediately restore funding to support our National Guard in full to protect the health of our people and the health of our nation. I applaud President-elect Biden's pledge to fully fund the efforts of our neighbors in uniform who have answered the call to serve in response to this public health crisis. As we head into what could be one of the deadliest winters in American history, our states need every tool at their disposal in order to continue to battle the pandemic. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, members of the National Guard have been deployed across the country to assist with public health responses. Earlier in the year, the Trump Administration covered 100 percent of the associated costs for deployment. In August, the Administration stripped states of millions of dollars of support when it announced it would no longer cover the full costs, forcing many states to states and territories to cover 25 percent of National Guard deployment, while making an unexplained exception exclusively for Florida, Texas, Arizona, Connecticut and California. You can read full text of the letter here and below: Dear Mr. President, Your authorization for COVID-19 Title 32 National Guard support led to the critical mobilization of thousands of Soldiers and Airmen across nearly every state and territory. The authorization, however, expires at the end of the year. This means that states will stand down these brave men and women on December 17th to give them enough time to return to their families safely. Our nation now approaches what could very well be the deadliest winter in American history. As colder temperatures force people indoors for the holiday season, we continue to shatter records for COVID-19 infections and deaths. GovernorsDemocratic and Republican alikeneed every tool at their disposal to keep their residents safe, including the National Guard. As with disasters past, we have witnessed the quick courage of our neighbors in uniform, whom we may need to call upon for further sacrifices again as the new year breaks. But if you allow your Title 32 authorization to lapse, you will hamstring the response of 49 states and territories: testing capacity, already spread thin, will shrink even further,[1] food delivery will slow,[2] and distribution of supplies, such as life-saving PPE, will stall.[3] It doesn't have to be this way. President-elect Biden has already pledged to authorize full Title 32 support,[4] including the restoration of the traditional, 100% federal cost-share, to allow the limited resources of states to be used more effectively elsewhere. Our nation needs you to do the same. You alone have the power to extend the current Title 32 authorization, and you have the power to restore the 100% federal cost-share covered by your original Title 32 authorization. Time is running out. Forcing governors to sit and wait over a three-week delay between your Administration and the next will inflict unnecessary, easily avoidable suffering. You must restore 100% federally-funded Title 32 National Guard support now. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lahood.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lahood-leads-effort-revive-hospitality-and-tourism-industries,LaHood Leads Effort to Revive Hospitality and Tourism Industries,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Republican,Senate,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-18), Steven Horsford (NV-04), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) today introduced the bipartisan Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act to revitalize the tourism and hospitality industries, which have been severely impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A companion to the U.S. Senate legislation introduced by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Keven Cramer (R-N.D.), the Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act will provide comprehensive relief for the convention, entertainment, hospitality, and travel industries and their workers by creating new recovery incentives and enhancing the employee retention tax credit until frequent travel and tourism safely resumes. The COVID-19 pandemic and state-mandated closures continue to wreak havoc on communities and industries across Illinois' 18th district, especially our hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors, said Rep. LaHood. Congress cannot sit on the sidelines any longer while businesses continue to struggle. This bipartisan bill will give these disproportionally affected businesses the support they need to recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The hospitality, travel and tourism industries employ nearly 30 percent of Southern Nevada's workers and are the lifeblood of our state's economy. These sectors face unprecedented hardships amid the COVID-19 pandemic and have made every effort to keep their employees and customers safe as they fight to stay in business, said Congressman Horsford. I'm proud to introduce the Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act to give them and their workers a fighting chance as we navigate these challenging times. If we don't pass an economic relief package soon, our economy, including our local hospitality industry, will be severely damaged for years to come. The tax credits provided in our Hospitality and Commerce Jobs Recovery Act would provide much-needed revenue to those businesses so that they can preserve jobs and come back stronger than ever, said Congressman Panetta. This type of legislation is vital to protect the 22,000 travel and tourism employees who call the Central Coast home. Travel is by far the industry hardest hit by the ongoing fallout of the pandemicaccounting for 42 percent of all jobs lost in the U.S. since the start of the pandemic, said Tori Emerson Barnes, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy at the U.S. Travel Association. Without recovery measures like this bill, the industry is expected to take at least 5 years to recover to pre-pandemic levels of employment and economic activity. By targeting tax incentives on the areas that need the most helpincluding in the meetings and events and entertainment sectorsthe Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act will provide a significant boost to rebuilding travel jobs, helping to ensure the millions of Americans that rely on travel for income can get the financial stability they need. We thank Representatives Horsford, LaHood, and Panetta for taking a bold stand on behalf of America's travel workforce. The bipartisan Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act, introduced thanks to the continued leadership by Representatives Horsford and LaHood, is exactly what the hotel industry needs to help recover, bring back jobs, and reignite a continued investment in the communities they serve. The pandemic has all but decimated the hotel industry, with business and leisure travel grinding to a near halt and occupancy rates hitting record lows. Our data shows that 7 in 10 hoteliers won't make it another six months without further federal assistance given the current drop in projected travel demand. That will have a ripple effect throughout our communities for years to come, saidChip Rogers, president and CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.Now, with the new surge in COVID-19 cases, we expect fewer Americans to travel this holiday season and we are incredibly worried about the coming months and what the drop in demand will mean for the industry and the millions of employees we have been unable to bring back. Our industry's priorities have always focused on retaining and rehiring our workforce, and the tax incentives provided in this bill will alleviate some of the strain felt by the hospitality industry during this crisis and allow us, and the broader economy, to move towards recovery. We applaud Reps. LaHood and Horsford for their commitment to job recovery especially in the hospitality and commerce sectors, said Peter Pantuso, president & CEO of the American Bus Association. Few industries have been hit harder by the COVID-19 pandemic as millions of people find themselves furloughed or unemployed, and the economy is losing hundreds of billions of dollars because people are not traveling right now. The men and women who rely on travel and tourism need help from Congress and they need it now. Background: The COVID-19 pandemic presents a tremendous challenge to both public health and the economy, and no industry in the U.S. has been more severely impacted than the travel and hospitality sector. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in travel and tourism has fallen by 23.9% across the nation this year. The Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act would address the significant challenges facing the tourism and hospitality industries as the U.S. continues to work toward recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, the Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act would: Support the convention and trade show industries by establishing a tax credit for the cost of attending or hosting a convention, business meeting, or trade show in the United States between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2023. Make improvements to the Employee Retention Tax Credit. Restore the Entertainment Business Expense Deduction. Support the restaurant industry by establishing a tax credit for restaurants or food service businesses, covering any cost associated with reopening or increasing service at an establishment forced to close down or reduce operations due to the COVID-19 pandemicincluding any renovation, remediation, testing, or labor cost needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Credit would be effective between the date of enactment and December 31, 2022. Provide a modest tax credit for qualified travel expenses for many Americans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/wishing-you-joyous-and-safe-thanksgiving,Wishing You A Joyous and Safe Thanksgiving,2020-11-20,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"As Thanksgiving approaches, I am writing to you about the difficult decisions we all find ourselves facing. The holiday season is a wonderful time of year filled with joyous and cherished traditions. At this time of year, we're always reminded of what's truly important in lifeour family, friends, and loved ones. And this holiday season, keeping those dearest to us safe should be of the utmost importance to us all. Due to the current rate of infection for COVID-19, I want to urge you all to make thoughtful choices about how to celebrate this year. For some, this might mean adjusting cherished holiday traditions to limit exposure, so we can enjoy many more holiday seasons to come. The CDC has recommended you celebrate only with members of your household and has warned that travel may increase your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19. We recently received news that indicates two new effective vaccines are on the horizon and there may be a light at the end of the tunnel. Unfortunately, these vaccines will still not be widely available for months at the earliest, and with parts of Illinois experiencing their worst surges in cases to date, we must continue our efforts to limit the spread of cases so that as many people as possible can receive a vaccine when it becomes available. In the meantime, we as a community ought to recommit ourselves to the safe practices of wearing a mask, staying home, and limiting our gatherings. I'm confident that the resilience of our community, which has carried us through this year's unprecedented challenges, will meet the demands of this moment. In light of the challenges we did face this year, I am ever more thankful this Thanksgiving for my loving wife, our two beautiful daughters, and our entire Chicago community. I wish you all a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/breaking-news-internet-of-things-cybersecurity-legislation-clears-congress,"BREAKING NEWS: Internet of Things Cybersecurity Legislation Clears Congress, Heads to White House For Presidents Signature",2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Data privacy and cybersecurity issues continue to be top of mind, as this week the U.S. Senate unanimously passedthe Internet of Things (IoT) Cybersecurity Improvement Act (H.R. 1668), introduced by Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-Illinois). In September,the House had passed the billby voice vote after negotiation sessions with the Senate. The legislation provides for the establishment of minimum cybersecurity standards for government purchased, internet connected devices, with anticipated impact on manufacturers in the private sector. In a press release issued after the bill's passageCongresswoman Kelly stated[t]he bipartisan [IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act] will ensure that the US government purchases secure devices and closes existing vulnerabilities to protect our national security and the personal information of American families. The IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop standards and guidelines for the federal government on the appropriate use and management by agencies of [IoT] devices owned or controlled by an agency and connected to information systems owned or controlled by an agency. This includes NIST developing minimal informational security requirements for managing cybersecurity risks associated with such devices. Along these lines, NIST is instructed to consider relevant standards, guidelines, and best practices developed by the private sector, agencies, and public-private partnerships. The IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act also provides that any standards and guidelines developed should also be consistent with pre-existing NIST efforts in this area, including: Examples of possible security vulnerabilities of IoT devices; Considerations for managing the security vulnerabilities of IoT devices; and With respect to IoT devices, the following considerations: (i) secure development (ii) identity management, (iii) patching, and (iv) configuration management. Additionally, NIST is also to develop guidelines as to how federal agencies and contractors/subcontractors should receive information about and resolve cybersecurity vulnerabilities in their IoT devices. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is charged with implementing NIST's guidelines once promulgated. The IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act also contains a procurement provision. The head of any federal agency is prohibited from procuring or obtaining, renewing a contract to procure or obtain, or using an [IoT] device, if the Chief Information Officer of that agency determines during a required review for a contract for such device that the use of such device prevents compliance with the standards and guidelines developed by NIST. There are three limited grounds for waiver of this requirement including if the CIO of the agency determines that: The waiver is necessary in the interest of national security; Procuring, obtaining, or using such device is necessary for research purposes; or Such device is secured using alternative and effective methods appropriate to the function of such device. The final impact of the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act remains unknown, as the scope of the guidelines set by NIST have yet to be determined. Stay tuned. Read the original at the National Law Review.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/lawmakers-push-for-improved-diabetes-care-through-tech-advancements,Lawmakers push for improved diabetes care through tech advancements,2020-11-19,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Lawmakers and experts on Wednesday discussed the crucial role technological advancements are playing in providing health care, particularly for diabetes patients. Despite medical innovations like blood glucose monitors, many Americans still have trouble accessing the proper toolsfor living with diabetes. Greater access to those technologies, lawmakers said, could improve the quality of life for the tens of millions of Americans who have diabetes. Rep. Michael Burgess (R-Texas), a medical doctor and member of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, said federal agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should be working to get some of those technologies to market faster. You don't want to sacrifice speed for safety, but I have gotten uncomfortable or anxious because of the length of time it seems to be taking theagency to get through with the regulatory process, he said at The Hill's ""Innovation Forward: Technology and Diabetes Care"" event. Burgess also criticized the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), calling it an obstacle to increasing health care accessibility. He told The Hill's Steve Clemons that the CBO, which provides lawmakers with cost estimates of legislation,onlylooks at the immediate cost and not the long-term benefit that patients will gain from more affordable health care. He added that there needs to be a more nimble way for the government's budgeting process to address the upfront cost of preventive care. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust, followed Burgess at Wednesday's event by stressing the importance of other tech advancements in the health field like telemedicine. She said expanding broadband access to more rural areas would bolster telemedicine, which she noted hasmade it easier for patients to attend doctor's appointments because they don't have to worry about transportation or missing other commitments, such as work or school. Telemedicine can be a great equalizer, if done properly, she said at the event sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company. Read the original at The Hill.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-hagedorn-introduce-bill-to-lower-greenhouse-gas-emissions-encourage-low-carbon-fuel-production/,"Bustos, Hagedorn Introduce Bill to Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Encourage Low-Carbon Fuel Production",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) and Congressman Jim Hagedorn (MN-01) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would lower greenhouse gas emissions and encourage low-carbon fuel production. The Streamlining Advanced Biofuels Registration Act would help biofuels plants cut through red tape in order to increase production of cellulosic biomass into renewable fuels. Reducing greenhouse gases while investing in renewable fuels means we must take steps to help our biofuels producers utilize every available fuel source, while supporting our corn farmers, said Congresswoman Bustos. That's why I'm proud to introduce the Streamlining Advanced Biofuels Registration Act with Congressman Hagedorn. By cutting red tape and ensuring that producers receive a timely response from the EPA, we can encourage the use of cellulosic biomass in low-carbon, renewable fuel production and continue to create cleaner, more environmentally-friendly fuels. This legislation is an important step toward improving clean energy technology and efficiency with the help of corn producers and the ethanol industry, said Congressman Hagedorn. By forcing the EPA to make timely decisions on these applications, we are opening new markets that will power southern Minnesota communities and the nation's economy. I'm extremely pleased to work in bipartisan fashion with Congresswoman Bustos on this important initiative. The Renewable Fuel Standard requires energy producers to utilize low-carbon, renewable fuels. Cellulosic biomass, a non-food product that can be used as an energy source, can be utilized to produce low-carbon, renewable fuels with a 60 percent reduction on greenhouse gas emissions, compared to nonrenewable fuels. The increased use of cellulosic biomass to produce renewable fuels could greatly reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the environment. However, in order to process cellulosic biomass under the Renewable Fuel Standard, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must approve applications on behalf of biofuels producers. The EPA has refused to act on dozens of applications on behalf of biofuels producers. The Streamlining Advanced Biofuels Registration Act would force the EPA to act on outstanding applications and compel the EPA to accept applications if, after 90 days, the fuel could participate in at least one state's clean transportation program. READ more about the Streamlining Advanced Biofuels Registration Act. POET applauds Representatives Bustos and Hagedorn for their leadership on this important issue. Renewable fuels are a critical part of the solution in the fight against climate change, and our nation needs to use every tool at its disposal, said Josh Shields, Senior Vice President of External Affairs. The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) has long promised not only low-carbon fuel from corn starch, but also that which can be made from additional feedstocks and energy-dedicated crops. While companies like POET have honored our commitment to developing these fuels with billions of dollars of research, EPA has consistently prevented our applications from moving forward and left us with little to no incentive to continue our vital research and development in this area of energy innovation. This legislation will remedy the EPA logjam and get our nation back on the right path to pursuing the zero-carbon liquid fuel option that drivers will need to overcome our reliance on fossil fuels. We applaud Congresswoman Bustos and Congressman Hagedorn for proposing a bipartisan and common sense solution to the regulatory logjam blocking cellulosic biofuels from the consumer marketplace, said Brooke Coleman, Director of the Advanced Biofuels Business Council. There are dozens of registration applications in seemingly perpetual review at EPA, freezing the commercial deployment of low-carbon, cellulosic biofuels and discouraging investment in U.S. innovation. This legislation takes the critical first step of recognizing the problem and forcing EPA to rule on long-overdue pathway and registration petitions. The cellulosic biofuels industry is ready to help decarbonize and revitalize the U.S. economy solving the EPA registration problem is a critical piece of the puzzle. We applaud Representatives Bustos and Hagedorn for introducing this legislation to streamline pathways for low-carbon biofuels, said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. Unnecessary delays have stalled progress on the biofuels industry's ability to harness clean energy from agricultural residue, corn fiber, and waste. We know that cellulosic technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 100% or more, providing options for negative-emissions liquid fuels and providing a low-cost alternative to petroleum-based aromatics that poison our air and threaten our health. This important legislation will help clear the deck on long-overdue approvals and jumpstart growth in these innovative technologies at a time when revitalizing rural communities has never been more important. The Biomass Power Association is grateful to Rep. Bustos and Rep. Hagedorn for introducing this bill and holding EPA to account for the qualifying fuels it hasn't yet included in the RFS, said Carrie Annand, executive director of Biomass Power Association. Electricity producers have been waiting for nearly 13 years to be included in the program, even after RFS2 made clear that electricity generated from approved feedstocks qualifies to generate RINs. It's time for the EPA to do its job by processing applications for electricity producers and others to participate in the RFS. We urge swift approval and enactment of this bill. The American Biogas Council (ABC) is very thankful for the introduction of this bill by Representatives Bustos and Hagedorn. We believe it proposes a reasonable solution to a long running problem which has led to delays in the development of biogas to electricity projects, stated Patrick Serfass, Executive Director of the ABC. As a result of the unprocessed applications at EPA, many biogas developers have decided to forgo applying to the program rather than devoting resources to a process that would leave them in limbo. Biogas projects want to participate in the RFS by making electricity. We are hopeful this legislation will enable them to do so. Senators John Thune and Jeanne Shaheen carry the legislation in the Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6559,Chairman Lipinski Holds Rail Subcommittee Hearing on the Future of the Surface Transportation Board in Strengthening Service on Commuter Rail and Amtrak,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-03) held a Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee hearing today focusing on the role of the Surface Transportation Board (STB) in achieving a better and more robust intercity and commuter rail passenger system in the United States. At the hearing, Chairman Lipinski emphasized the importance of making significant investments in rail infrastructure and making it easier for passenger railroads and Amtrak to expand or establish new service. Witnesses at the hearing included Romayne Brown, the first African-American chairwoman of the Metra, and Marty Oberman, current vice-chair of the STB and former chairman of Metra. As one of the millions of Americans who frequently uses commuter and passenger rail, I understand firsthand the importance of a reliable and safe rail network in getting Americans where they need to go, said Congressman Lipinski. Enhancing our passenger rail networks requires making a significant federal investment in our intercity and commuter rail infrastructure. It also necessitates that we expand our domestic rail supply industry, so that our nation's railroads are once again made in America. Lastly, we will need to establish a more balanced and efficient process to utilize existing tracks for expanded passenger rail service. The Surface Transportation Board plays a vital role in protecting the interests of travelers and commuters and this hearing gives the subcommittee an opportunity to hear how Congress can enhance the STB's role in reauthorization. Chairman Lipinski and subcommittee members examined how the Surface Transportation Board's jurisdiction could be further expanded to improve our national intercity and commuter passenger rail system. The Chairman specifically highlighted the need for Congress to give commuter railroads like Metra more leverage with other railroads when it wants to expand or add new service. In July, Chairman Lipinski co-authored the House approved the Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2), a transformative bill that would invest a record $60 billion over five years in the nation's passenger rail infrastructure. The Moving Forward Act makes commuter railroads newly eligible for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program and authorizes $7 billion over five years for the CRISI program. The Moving Forward Act also requires freight railroads to strongly consider commuter railroads' requests for reasonable access and usage of freight rail infrastructure, a key priority of Chairman Lipinski. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) is an independent federal agency and has the primary responsibility of regulating railroads, including adjudicating disputes between Amtrak and freight railroads regarding on-time performance and Amtrak's requests to initiate new rail service on existing freight rail lines. The STB is currently operating with only 3 of the 5 board seats filled and its authorization expired on October 1, 2020. Witnesses for today's hearing were: Ms. Ann D. Begeman-Chairman, Surface Transportation Board Mr. Martin J. Oberman-Vice Chairman, Surface Transportation Board Ms. Romayne C. Brown- Chair of the Board of Directors, Metra Mr. Stephen Gardner- Senior Executive Vice President, Amtrak Mr. Ian Jefferies-President and Chief Executive Officer, Association of American Railroads Mr. Randal O'Toole-Senior Fellow, Cato Institute Mr. Paul Skoutelas-President and Chief Executive Officer, American Public Transportation Association Chairman Lipinski's full opening remarks can be found on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure website here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6561,Congressman Lipinski Statement in Response to the Federal Aviation Administration Rescinding Order that Grounded the Boeing 737 Max Plane,2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced they are rescinding the order that grounded the Boeing 737 Max plane. All Max planes have been grounded in the United States since March 2019 following the Ethiopian Airlines and Lion Air plane crashes that tragically claimed the lives of 346 people. The ungrounding of the planes follows in depth safety reviews of the Max by the FAA Technical Advisory Board (TAB), Joint Authorities Technical Review (JATR), and U.S. Department of Transportation Inspector General. This is only the first step that must be taken before the planes are cleared to fly again. Repairs must be made to a safety system on each Boeing Max plane and pilots will have to complete mandatory training to fly it. Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-03) issued the following statement in response to the news: It is important that the public have confidence that it is safe to fly on Boeing Max planes and understands how the FAA reached this decision based on the independent safety evaluations and return to service testing done. I look forward to the FAA briefing the public and the families of the victims on how this decision was reached. While Congress did not have a direct say in the ungrounding of the plane, our work on this issue is not done. Yesterday, the House of Representatives unanimously passed the bipartisanAircraft Certification Reform and Accountability Act(H.R. 8408). The legislation includes numerous, significant reforms to the Federal Aviation Administration's airplane certification system which will enhance the safety of air passengers and ensure the FAA is free from undo industry influence.I urge my colleagues in the Senate to move forward with this bill so we can get it into law before the end of Congress. We owe it to the victims and families to ensure that this bill is enacted into law and is fully implemented. TheAircraft Certification Reform and Accountability Actreforms will collectively ensure that the ODA program functions appropriately, that new technologies like MCAS are properly analysed for their safety, that the cultures at Boeing and FAA embody the right values, and that the FAA is truly an independent regulator. The bill is the result of nearly two years of effort by Congressman Lipinski, Chairmen DeFazio and Larsen, and other members of the T&I Committee to get to the bottom of the two Boeing Max crashes and craft legislation to protect American travellers. The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee released itsfinal reporton its 18-month investigation into the certification of the Boeing 737 MAX earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/iot-cybersecurity-bill-gets-senate-approval-heads-to-white-house,"IoT Cybersecurity Bill Gets Senate Approval, Heads to White House",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Senate on Nov. 17 approved the Internet of Things Cybersecurity Improvement Act (H.R. 1668) by unanimous consent, sending the bill to the White House for President Trump's signature. The House approved the bill in September. The legislation establishes baseline standards for government-purchased Internet-connected devices by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Office of Management (OMB) and Budget to publish and review standards for IoT device security, setting a minimum security standard for all IoT devices purchased by government agencies. The bipartisan Internet of Things Cybersecurity Improvement Act will ensure that the U.S. government purchases secure devices and closes existing vulnerabilities to protect our national security and the personal information of American families, said Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., who serves as the co-chair of the House Tech Accountability Caucus. The bill is sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Catherine Cortez Mastro, D-Nev., Cory Gardner, R-Colo., Steve Daines, R-Mont., and Mike Rounds, R-S.D. The House version of the bill is sponsored by a bipartisan group of 26 representatives, including Reps. Kelly, Gerry Connolly, D-Va., Ro Khanna, D-Calif., Ted Lieu, D-Calif., Will Hurd, R-Texas, Roger Marshall, R-Kan., and Ted Budd, R-N.C. Most experts expect tens of billions of devices operating on our networks within the next several years as the Internet of Things (IoT) landscape continues to expand, said Sen. Gardner, who co-chairs the Senate Cybersecurity Caucus. We need to make sure these devices are secure from malicious cyber-attacks as they continue to transform our society and add countless new entry points into our networks, particularly when they are integrated into the federal government's networks. Sen. Warner, who also co-chairs the Senate Cybersecurity Caucus, agreed with his colleague across the aisle, While more and more products and even household appliances today have software functionality and internet connectivity, too few incorporate even basic safeguards and protections, posing a real risk to individual and national security. He added, I'm proud that Congress was able to come together today to pass this legislation, which will harness the purchasing power of the federal government and incentivize companies to finally secure the devices they create and sell. I urge the President to sign this bill into law without delay. Read the original at MeriTalk.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/internet-of-things-cybersecurity-legislation-clears-congress-heads-to,"Internet of Things Cybersecurity Legislation Clears Congress, Heads to White House",2020-11-18,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Last night, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Internet of Things Cybersecurity Improvement Act (H.R. 1668), introduced by Congresswoman Robin Kelly. The legislation establishes baseline standards for government-purchased Internet-connected devices. The bipartisan Internet of Things Cybersecurity Improvement Act will ensure that the US government purchases secure devices and closes existing vulnerabilities to protect our national security and the personal information of American families, said Congresswoman Robin Kelly, co-chair of the House Tech Accountability Caucus. The legislation was unanimously approved by the U.S. House in September. It passed on the Senate by unanimous consent on the evening of November 17th, 2020. Passing this vital cybersecurity legislation would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of my colleagues and partners: Rep. Will Hurd, Sen. Mark Warner and Sen. Cory Gardner. Thank you! added Congresswoman Kelly. Sen. Gardner and Rep. Hurd may not be retuning next Congress, but their efforts crafting, passing and enacting good cybersecurity legislation will endure for decades with the passage of this legislation. Passage of the Internet of Things is the latest tech and cybersecurity-related effort from Congresswoman Kelly. This Congress, she also co-authored four white papers on artificial intelligence (AI) policy, introduced a Congressional resolution calling for a government-wide AI strategy, reauthorized the US SAFEWEB Act and decried the negative impacts of the Trump Shutdown on the already-understaffed government's IT workforce. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-introduces-legislation-strengthen-american,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Introduces Legislation To Strengthen The American Intelligence Community Through Expanding Its Microelectronics And Geospatial Intelligence Capacity,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi(D-IL)introduced two bills to expand the capacity of the American intelligence community through the use of microelectronics and geospatial data. The bipartisan Seeding Enterprises in the Microelectronics Industry (SEMI) Act, which Congressman Krishnamoorthiintroduced with Rep. Chris Stewart (R-UT),would provide $15 million to the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA) to be distributed in seed funds, for the development and advancement of microelectronicsand computing technologies.The Geospatial Partnership for Security (GPS) Act would increases funding for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) to improve its access tocommercial geospatial intelligence data and services. I am proud to introduce these two bills to help strengthen our intelligence community and to ensure our nation is equipped with the state-of-the-art technologies upon which our security depends, said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. At a time when our adversaries are using every tool at their disposal to take advantage of any gaps in our intelligence systems, it is critical we remain vigilant in developing and adopting the latest technologies. By providing funding for the implementation and use of microelectronics and commercial geospatial intelligence data, my bills would help maintain the preeminence of our intelligence community.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/health-experts-say-covid-19-vaccinators-must-address-trust-gap-in-minority,Health experts say COVID-19 vaccinators must address trust gap in minority communities,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Moderna Inc. announced Monday that its COVID-19 vaccine was 94.5% effective in preventing the virus, according to early clinical trial data. That came on the heels of news last week that early data from a Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE COVID-19 vaccine trial showed it was more than 90% effective in preventing the virus. But a September survey by Pew Research Center found that only 32% of Black adults and 56% of Hispanics said they would get a COVID-19 vaccine when one is available, even as Blacks and Latinos are contracting the virus and dying from it at drastically higher rates than whites. I'm not surprised, said Dr. Jaime Baylock regarding the survey data. Baylock is a part of Flossmoor-based Primary Healthcare Associates. As a nephrologist, she treats patients with kidney disorders and other illnesses. Most of her patients are African American, have high blood pressure, obesity and many of them are smokers, which puts them at greater risk of poor outcomes if they contract COVID-19. She briefly treated me last year while I was hospitalized after suffering arm muscle damage that temporarily put my kidneys at risk. We have a long history of mistrust among people of color with the medical community for various reasons, she said. That lack of trust goes all the way back to the Tuskegee experiment where African Americans were withheld proper treatment for syphilis from the government for experimental purposes all the way up to today where mortality rates among Black mothers are higher than that of other races when giving birth. Roberson shared similar views. History is now returning to haunt the U.S. medical establishment, she said. They must take the trust gap seriously as a problem to be addressed. Other factors causing skepticism include the politicization of the virus and the speed at which vaccines are being developed, Roberson and Baylock said. It usually takes years, and the fact that vaccines are being rushed to be developed in months may make some people hesitant to want to take a vaccine, said Baylock, who has privileges at UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey, Advocate South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest and Franciscan Health in Olympia Fields. People are concerned about being used as guinea pigs, Roberson said. Baylock's patients have mixed views on whether to take the vaccine. Some people are enthusiastic, but plenty are hesitant, Baylock said. Even among her family, some are skeptical. They are asking me what I think about it and what they should do if and when a vaccine becomes available similar to what my patients are saying, Baylock shared. When a vaccine is approved, Baylock said she will want to see information on whether the vaccine is safe for her particular patient population. But she is confident such information will be available. She said she is telling her patients and family that in order for a vaccine to be approved, it has to be deemed safe and effective. We can be assured that both of those qualifications will be met in any vaccine that is put out for the public to take."" Baylock and Roberson said they will take a COVID-19 vaccine when one becomes available. To get minority communities to do so, having trusted leaders providing them with the facts will be crucial, they and others stressed. I think the more information we can get out, the more people know what's going on the better, said U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Matteson, who is chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust. We will do everything we can to pump information out and speak to as many people as possible. It will be important for people to hear directly from the medical community and physicians they trust, said Baylock and Kelly. I use myself as an example, said Baylock. ""My patients ask me all the time my opinion on vaccines and whether or not they should take them, and I tell them. My patients relate to me not only because I'm an African American woman, but we have things in common. When I say I'm doing it for myself and for my family as well, I think that encourages people to be able to trust the person they've entrusted their major medical problems with. Baylock said educating people rather than just telling them what they need to do will help them become more informed decision-makers about their health care. I think when you involve people in the decision-making process and explain why, they are much more likely to go along with it,"" she said. Time is of the essence, said Roberson. She advises communities of color to find out as much about the vaccine as they can for themselves so they can make informed decisions, be proactive and an advocate for their own health. Aunt Martha's Health & Wellness CEO and President Raul Garza says the federally qualified health center, which treats many Latino and Black patients, will incorporate multiple approaches to educating the public on the importance of communities of color taking a COVID-19 vaccine. Aunt Martha's has 23 clinics including sites serving patients in Chicago Heights, Harvey, Hazel Crest, Blue Island and South Holland. The center provides testing for COVID-19 and has tested more than 14,000 people so far. The positivity rate among Hispanics who have been tested is a whopping 61%, and it's 16% among African Americans, Garza said. Aunt Martha's will be getting out there and really promoting why this is so important, he said, adding its education campaign will use social media, and when (patients) come in for visits, we will have information for them to take home. We will have tailored information for every segment of the population. Aunt Martha's call center will also provide information, and care coordinators will reach out to patients, he said. I think we will be effective in getting the word out, he said. Federal regulatory approval of a COVID-19 vaccine is anticipated before the end of the year. This is critical to slowing down the mortality and the prevalence of this virus, said Baylock. If a vaccine is going to dramatically slow that down, I'm all for it. Read the original at the Daily Southtown.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/us-rep-robin-kelly-chicago-police-hand-out-free-turkeys-in-south-chicago,"U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, Chicago police hand out free turkeys in South Chicago neighborhood",2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police and U.S. Representative Robin Kelly helped hand out free turkeys and trimmings to people in the South Chicago neighborhood. The event was part of the Black McDonald's Operators Association week long holiday giveaway. Every individual received a free turkey and a box filled with side dishes at 2425 E. 79th in Chicago Friday. McDonald's and Chicago police also joined together for the 20th annual Turkey and Sides Giveaway on Veterans Day. It was a first-come, first-served basis and veterans received VIP treatment, with a dedicated line for expedited service, organizers said. Read the original at WLS.com",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/kelly-bill-to-protect-seniors-passes-us-house,Kelly Bill to Protect Seniors Passes U.S. House,2020-11-17,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Robin Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington,D.C. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed legislative language, introduced byCongresswoman Robin Kelly, to protect older Americans from COVID-19-related scams. Originally introduced as thebipartisanProtecting Seniorsfrom Emergency Scams Act,the legislation was included in theFraud and Scam Reduction Act(H.R. 2610) which the House passed on voice vote today. The legislation directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) tomake digital resources available for older Americans and caregivers on the nature of scams in their geographic area and provides connections to law enforcement. The legislation also requires the FTC to submit areport toCongressonthe number and types of scams targeting seniors during the coronavirus pandemic. The legislation also requires the FTC tomake recommendations on how to prevent scams targeting seniors during the COVID-19pandemic and future emergencies. Our senior citizenshave bornethebrunt of thispandemic. Now, scammers are targeting older Americans andpreying on theirCOVID-19fears,CongresswomanRobinKelly said. We haveamoral obligationto stop these con artists by empowering seniors with facts and information while aggressively targeting criminals with all available FTC resources. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D.(R-KS01)was an original co-sponsorof the House legislation andSenators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) introducedthe Senatecompanion bill(S. 3824).The billwas endorsed by the AARP, Elder Justice Coalition, American Society on Aging and National Adult Protective Services Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-writes-director-national-intelligence-general,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Writes To Director Of National Intelligence & General Services Administration On The National Security Implications Of Delayed Presidential Transition,2020-11-13,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent letters to Emily Murphy, the Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA), and John Ratcliffe, the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), to express his concern that the letter of ascertainment has not yet been signed by GSA Administrator Murphy to begin the presidential transition process and therefore presents a national security threat as the Biden Administration takes over in January. GSA Administrator Murphy has not yet signed the letter outlined by the Presidential Transition Act of 1963 to initiate presidential transition proceedings including the granting of transition funding as well as access to current officials and government resources even though Joe Biden has been near-universally recognized as the winner of the 2020 election. GSA withholding the certification of the election has serious national security implications for the country, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. Intelligence officials and documents are not available to the incoming administration for preparation until GSA certifies the elections, and the delay of these logistical processes and resources may in turn slow the new administration's ability to successfully begin its role in protecting the United States against national security threats. Once the letter of ascertainment is signed by GSA, the President-elect can receive summaries on military and covert operations, begin filing FBI background checks for new hires, and it's customary for the President-elect to receive the Presidential Daily Briefing. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence has stated that ODNI would not have any contact with any transition team until notified by the GSA Administrator. So, these processes are currently on hold. The Presidential Transition Act of 1963 specifically notes that any disruption occasioned by the transfer of the executive power could produce results detrimental to the safety and well-being of the United States and its people. Congressman Krishnamoorthi asked both GSA Administrator Murphy and DNI Ratcliffe what actions are being taken to assist the incoming administration protect national security, whether they're aware that a delay in the presidential transition process may have national security implications, and what their plans are for an expedited transfer of intelligence information to the Biden Administration given the current delay. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested a response by November 24th. A copy of the letter to GSA Administrator Emily Murphy is available here, and a copy of the letter to DNI John Ratcliffe is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/congresswoman-bustos-nominated-to-co-chair-steering-and-policy-committee-for-117th-congress/,Congresswoman Bustos Nominated to Co-Chair Steering and Policy Committee for 117th Congress,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) issued the following statement after Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced her nomination to serve as Co-Chair of the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. Throughout my career, I have sought to lift up voices from the middle of our country families in our cities and towns, communities that make up rural America and hardworking people all across our nation. Today, I am humbled and honored to be nominated for Co-Chair of the Steering and Policy Committee and to continue to bring that perspective to the senior leadership team in the U.S. House of Representatives. I thank Speaker Pelosi for this nomination, and I salute Congresswoman DeLauro for her long standing service and leadership. I am honored to serve with Reps. Eric Swalwell and Barbara Lee and look forward to partnering with them to continue our work For The People. The powerful House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee recommends committee assignments to the Democratic Caucus and helps shape the House policy agenda. First elected in 2012, Congresswoman Bustos has always been a voice for the hardworking families she serves. In 2016, she was elected to serve as Co-Chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC), which is tasked with developing a message that communicates how House Democrats are fighting on behalf of working families. In 2018, Congresswoman Bustos was elected Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which leads the campaign arm of the Democratic Caucus. She will continue to serve on the powerful House Appropriations Committee and on the House Committee on Agriculture. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-raja-krishnamoorthi-introduces-resolution-recognizing-religious-and,Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Introduces Resolution Recognizing the Religious and Historical Significance of The Festival of Diwali,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthiof Illinoisintroduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali. Diwali is celebrated across the world and in the United States by the more than 3 million Americans of Indian descent, including by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains.This year, it is commemoratedon Saturday, November 14th. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution in recognition of the tremendous religious, cultural, and historical significance of Diwali for those of Indian descent, said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. For Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains, the festival of Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, and in this time of challenge and uncertainty in the United States and across the world, this commemoration is as important as ever. I wish all who celebrate a safe and happy Diwali. Click the image above to watch Congressman Krishnamoorthi's Diwali message",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-introduces-bicameral-legislation-to-create-one-million-jobs-through,Rush Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Create One Million Jobs Through Environmental Conservation Projects,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) introduced the Restore Employment in Natural and Environmental Work (RENEW) Conservation Corps Act, which would create a civilian conservation corps to provide communities with job training and employment opportunities related to the outdoor recreation economy and green infrastructure projects. This legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). The ongoing pandemic has presented our nation and it's communities with countless challenges and hardships, which includes enduring the highest unemployment rates since the Great Depression. With this in mind, it is essential that Congress pursue every avenue to restore the prospect of well-paying jobs and occupational training, said Rep. Rush. This is why I am pleased to join Senator Durbin in introducing legislation today to establish the RENEW Conservation Corps program, which would deliver much-needed workforce training and employment opportunities within our communities by tackling the backlog of deferred conservation projects. America's outdoor spaces have provided recreation for generations, and this year we've seen how important and valuable they've been to countless Americans looking for a respite. If we are to leave these natural gifts to the next generation, we have to take responsibility in protecting them, Senator Durbin said. This bill is a straightforward approach to creating one million jobs that can address maintenance and restoration of our greatest natural resources and recreation areas. This is an investment to protect the beauty of America's natural treasures. Access to public and natural spaces is an essential part of our individual and collective health and well-being, said Jerry Adelmann, President and CEO of Openlands, a conservation organization active in the Chicago region. With the RENEW Conservation Corps Act, we will welcome a new generation of jobs that restore and preserve our natural lands and waters and create more inclusive and inviting places for all to enjoy and connect with nature. The RENEW Conservation Corps Act establishes the new conservation corps program at the U.S. Departments of Interior and Agriculture and authorizes more than $55 billion over a five-year period to put one million Americans to work to address the backlog of deferred conservation projects. To ensure a diverse workforce, the bill requires participants be reflective of the demographics in the area where the project is being completed. In addition, those participating in the program that complete a full year of work would be eligible to receive up to $5,500 credit for post-secondary education.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/e-newsletters/thank-you-veterans,"Thank You, Veterans!",2020-11-11,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,,,legacy,"Each year, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the year, we pause as a nation to honor all those who have served in our armed forces. I so wish that we could all be together today. In any other year, we would be celebrating our veterans at parades and festivals and thanking veterans in person. This year, we honor our veterans and particularly our elderly veterans by staying home instead. To those who have served- I am constantly inspired by your service, humbled by your selflessness, and grateful for your dedication to America. I hope you know how much our nation appreciates you. And today, in particular, our proud nation thanks you for all that you are, all that you have done, and all that you have given in service to these United States of America. From protecting trans service members to preventing veteran homelessness to ensuring proper access to mental health care, I'm proud to be fighting in DC on behalf of our veterans. All of us who enjoy the benefits of living in this great country must always remember that the reason the United States stands as a beacon of freedom throughout the world is because of our brave veterans. We owe it to our veterans to show gratitude by keeping our promises to them when they come back home. Please join me in thanking every veteran for their service. I hope that you, your family, and all veterans have a wonderful, safe Veteran's Day.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-writes-wh-counsel-and-doj-over-concerns-about,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Writes to WH Counsel and DOJ Over Concerns About President Trumps Adherence to the Presidential Records Act,2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent letters to Pat Cipollone, White House Counsel, and William Barr, Attorney General, asking for information regarding President Trump's adherence to the Presidential Records Act. Congressman Krishnamoorthi's letters ask for the WH Counsel and DOJ to ensure that the Presidential Records Act is followed in the closing months of the Trump Administration, especially in light of past concerning reports that President Trump was not fully complying with it. The Presidential Records Act states that all documents of the Presidents must be saved in the National Archives and defines Presidential records as documentary materials, or any reasonably segregable portion thereof, created or received by the President, the President's immediate staff, or a unit or individual of the Executive Office of the President whose function is to advise or assist the President, in the course of conducting activities which relate to or have an effect upon the carrying out of the constitutional, statutory, or other official or ceremonial duties of the President. The Presidential Records Act is crucial to maintaining the transparency within the Executive Office of the President, the trust between the government and the people, and the accountability of the government to the people, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. Every document that the President interacts with is a piece of history and belongs to the people through the NARA. Congressman Krishnamoorthi was concerned by reports that the Trump Administration's internal processes may impede adherence to the Presidential Records Act. These issues include reports that President Trump tends to rip up pieces of paper and throw them away after reading them, that he has taken notes from his interpreter in meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, that files on the treatment of undocumented immigrants are not being saved, and that members of the Executive Office of the President have been using messaging applications to conduct official business. Congressman Krishnamoorthi asked both the WH Counsel and DOJ what steps they are taking to ensure all members of the Executive Office of the President comply with the Presidential Records Act prior to a transition to the Biden Administration in January, and he requested a response by November 23rd. A copy of the letter to WH Counsel Cipollone is available here and a copy of the letter to Attorney General Barr is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-norman-introduce-bill-to-make-national-first-responders-day-a,"Rush, Norman Introduce Bill To Make National First Responders Day a Federal Holiday",2020-11-10,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) and Ralph Norman (R-SC) announced that they have introduced H.R. 8724, legislation that would designate October 28th as National First Responders Day across America, adding it to the current list of 10 legal public holidays under current law. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made the importance of the contributions our first responders make in every community across the United States clearer than ever, said Rush. Firefighters, police officers, and Emergency Medical Services workers put their lives on the line every day to protect our neighborhoods. Whether that crucial work involves extinguishing potentially deadly fires, keeping our streets safe, or delivering urgent and lifesaving medical services, first responders are there when Americans need them. Every day, our first responders selflessly serve their communities, often at great personal cost. While we can never fully repay first responders for the critical work that they do each day, a Federal holiday in their honor is one small way that we can demonstrate our gratitude. My support for first responders is unwavering. The heroism firefighters, police officers, and paramedics show has never been clearer than it is right now. The Coronavirus has tested us all, and local first responders everywhere have continuously stepped up to protect their communities. I am proud to introduce this legislation to help recognize these incredible men and women, said Norman. This legislation is a result of both lawmakers' belief that, regardless of the danger, our firefighters, police officers, and paramedics are on the front lines to protect our safety and wellbeing. The selflessness and heroism these individuals display deserves to be celebrated. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-statement-election-president-elect-joe-biden-and,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Statement on the Election of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris,2020-11-07,2020,2020-11,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement on the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris: With more than 75 million votes overall and a substantial margin in the electoral college, the American people have elected Joe Biden as our next president with a clear mandate to heal our country's wounds while defeating the coronavirus and reviving our economy. The son of Scranton never forgot the commitment to make a difference that led him into public service, and he never will. The election of Kamala Harris as Vice President is a transformative, meaningful moment for our country. Exactly 100 years after the ratification of the 19thamendment, we have elected America's first female Vice President. In a year of racial strife, we have elected America's first Black Vice President. The daughter of immigrants, Kamala Devi Harris also makes history as our first South Asian Vice President. As an Indian-American, I'm very grateful that my children will see Kamala Harris, along with Joe Biden, as a role model when she enters office. I know she'll work to further the progress the United States has made in representation and equality, and countless people will be inspired by her example.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/peoria-rockford-rock-island-and-monmouth-school-officials-join-call-for-bustos-retain-act/,"Peoria, Rockford, Rock Island and Monmouth School Officials Join Call for Bustos RETAIN Act",2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, Peoria, Rockford, Rock Island and Monmouth school officials joined the call for theRETAIN Act, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos' (IL-17) bicameral bill to address the severe, nationwide shortages of early childhood and K-12 teachers. Introduced along with U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Tina Smith (D-MN), theRETAIN Actwould address teacher shortages that disproportionately impact students from low-income backgrounds and students of color. We sell our teachers short when we leave them underpaid and undervalued, and wesell our next generation short when we fail to build a strong education system for all of our children,said Congresswoman Bustos.Teacher shortages were a problem before COVID-19 hit, but the number of empty positions has continued to skyrocket, since the beginning of the pandemic. We must bolster efforts to recruit and retain our teachers, and I'm proud have the support of educators in Peoria, Rockford, Rock Island and Monmouth, who know first-hand how critical these next steps will be for our children. Exacerbated by low pay, school leadership instability, and poor teaching conditions, schools in low-income communities struggle to retain experienced, qualified education professionals.Teacher pay has also worsened in the past 20 years, and teachers in low-income schools are more underpaid than teachers in more affluent schools.TheRetaining Educators Takes Added Investment Now (RETAIN) Actcreates a fully refundable tax credit for teachers, paraprofessionals, mental health providers, and school leaders in Title I schools and educators, program providers, and program directors in head start, early head start, and Child Care & Development Block Grant (CCDBG) funded early childhood education programs. The tax credit increases as these professionals become more experienced to incentivize retention. I support theRETAIN Actbecause it invests in teachers and paraprofessionals. I've seen so many colleagues who are excellent teachers leave the profession especially over the last year because of the long hours, lack of respect, and now, our own health is at risk. We need legislation like this to bring in new, dedicated teachers and to keep the ones who do this selfless work,said Mary Fran Wessler, Peoria High School Paraprofessional. Every teacher I know takes money out of their own paycheck to purchase extra school supplies, help students in need, and make their school year a success. We work long hours, starting before the school day and finishing up parent calls or grading papers well into the evening. We cover other classes because there is both a teacher and sub shortage. Many of us could increase our salary by using our expertise in another field, but we love our students and our jobs. The RETAIN Act is a great step in giving educators the recognition we deserve,said Matt McCaw, Peoria High School Math Teacher. Peoria Public Schools is fully supportive of this legislation. The RETAIN ACT will support in the retention of highly qualified and diverse staff who have been hired intentionally to mirror the schools' demographics to meet the needs of children. The legislation also emphasizes that the teaching profession is a viable career path entrusted with one of the most important and rewarding roles in our societymaking the lives of children the best it can be, especially in communities with the greatest need,saidDr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat, Superintendent, Peoria Public Schools. Staffing challenges are often the greatest in schools that have a high concentration of low-income students, and Rockford Public Schools continues to look for ways to attract and retain high-quality educators. The RETAIN Act would be a powerful tool for RPS 205 and districts across the country to help ensure educators working in Title I schools are financially supported with a fully refundable tax credit. As we invest in our educators, our students will ultimately benefit,said Dr. Ehren Jarrett, Superintendent, Rockford Public Schools. I am in full support of the RETAIN ACT. It has the opportunity to serve as a catalyst in helping school districts meet the critical need of attracting and retaining effective educators who reflect the diversity of today's student populations,saidDr. Reginald L. Lawrence II,Superintendent, Rock Island Milan School District #41. The teacher shortage is real and is likely to get worse due to the pandemic. Teachingis already a highly stressful vocation and the pandemic has made it even moredifficult. Teachers are doing their best to provide their students with the best education they can under the most challenging of circumstances. Having to teach with masks and social distancing and to adopt remote learning practices, for which they were not trained, has created a stressful job even more stressful, especially for teachers near the end of their careers. In addition, the pandemic has hit schools in communities of color, often with the fewest resources, the hardest. The impact in these communities will be long lasting as the longer students are out of the classroom without access to adequate technology and interaction witheducationalprofessionals, the wider the achievement gap will become.One way to address the teaching shortage is to provide teachers with financial incentives to stay in the profession, such as tax credits. For this reason, I endorse the RETAIN Act,saidDr. Michael Scarlett, Augustana College Education Department Chair. Monmouth College is closely involved with efforts to deal with teacher shortages, especially in rural school districts. Our schools are essential to the progress of our nation, and we are encouraged by efforts such as Congresswoman Bustos' to invest in attracting and retaining quality teachers,saidDr.Clarence R. Wyatt, President, Monmouth College. Background According to federal data, the average teacher salary in 2016 was $58,950though this obscures lower pay in less affluent school districts. The national median salary of Early Childhood Educator (ECE) teachers in 2015 was just $28,570 (qualifying many for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Teacher pay is largely shaped by local tax revenue, and to receive modest increases, teachers must obtain expensive graduate degreesadding student loan debt that dwarfs the accompanying pay raise. Further, schools consistently struggle to attract and retain effective teachers who reflect the diversity of students, particularly with respect to teachers who are African-American, Latino, and/or men. The current pandemic is expected to exacerbate these inequalities. The following organizations support the RETAIN Act: AASA-The Superintendent Association; American Federation of Teachers; American School Counselor Association; Chicago Teachers Union; First Five Years Fund; Illinois Education Association; Illinois Federation of Teachers; Illinois Principals Association; National Association of Elementary School Principals; National Association of School Psychologists; National Education Association; and the Service Employees International Union. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-krishnamoorthi-calls-office-special-counsel-investigate-potential,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Calls On The Office Of Special Counsel To Investigate Potential Hatch Act Violation By Interior Secretary Bernhardt Through Promoting Campaign-Style Video of President Trump,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent a letter to The Office of Special Counsel requesting that it investigate a potential Hatch Act violation by Interior Secretary David Bernhardt as a result of a Twitter video posted from his official account on October 27, 2020. The campaign-style video posted by Secretary Bernhardt on his official Twitter account, only one week before the election, promoted the claimed accomplishments of President Trump on environmental conservation and featured a speech by President Trump. In his letter to the Special Counsel's office, Congressman Krishnamoorthi expressed his concern that this video was created by the Interior Department presumably using taxpayer funds and that it framed Interior Department activities as achievements of President Trump's first term in office in the same manner as a campaign advertisement. Under the Hatch Act, any executive branch employee is explicitly barred from us[ing] his official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with or affecting the result of an election. Activities covered by this prohibition include the official [u]sing his or her official title while participating in political activity. The Twitter post in question especially warrants an investigation into a Hatch Act violation given its timing in relation to the November election. The Hatch Act explicitly prohibits federal employees from participating in partisan political activity in an official capacity, barring them from engaging in any activity directed toward the success or failure of any political party or candidate, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. The video posted by Department of the Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, which applauds President Trump exactly seven days before the general election, appears to have violated the Hatch Act, and OSC should immediately commence an investigation and take appropriate disciplinary action against those involved and responsible. Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested an update on the Special Counsel's actions to investigate this potential Hatch Act violation by November 11th. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://lipinski.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91&itemid=6555,Congressman Lipinski Announces Virtual Information Session on Financing College: Federal and State Resources,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Daniel Lipinski,L000563,lipinski.house.gov,,,legacy,"Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-03) announced this week that he will host a virtual information session on financing college for students and families on Monday, November 9th at 6:00pm CST. The information session will discuss federal and state financial aid resources. These are challenging times for students and families attempting to cover the costs of higher education, said Congressman Lipinski. Navigating state and federal bureaucracy can be challenging, but my staff and I are here to help. This session is an opportunity for us to speak directly with students and their families about the resources available and how to best take advantage of these opportunities. The session is open to high school seniors, current college students, and their families, as well as anyone interested in learning more about navigating resources to finance higher education. The program will feature presentations from: Major General Mark Brown, COO of Federal Student Aid at the U.S. Department of Education Kiely Fletcher, Executive Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Illinois at Chicago Aaron Lemon-Strauss, VP of College and Career Readiness at the College Board Additional representatives from Federal Student Aid, U.S. Department of Education Staff from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission For more information or to register online, please visit Congressman Lipinski's website at lipinski.house.gov/events or call Congressman Lipinski's Chicago office at (773) 948-6223.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-finkenauer-lahood-loebsack-applaud-army-corps-of-engineers-recognition-of-corn-belt-port-as-top-100-in-the-nation/,"Bustos, Finkenauer, LaHood, Loebsack Applaud Army Corps of Engineers Recognition of Corn Belt Port as Top 100 in the Nation",2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representatives Cheri Bustos (IL-17), Abby Finkenauer (IA-01), Darin LaHood (IL-18) and Dave Loebsack (IA-02) announced today that the recently federally-designated Corn Belt Ports were named as Leading U.S. Ports in 2019 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ranking in the top 100 ports in the United States by tonnage moved. The lawmakers recently announced that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved the creation of the three Port Statistical Areas (PSAs) in the Heart of the Corn Belt, which includes key ports in Illinois and Iowa along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The Corps designated the Mississippi River Ports of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois (MRPEIWI), the Mid-America Port and the Illinois Waterways Ports and Terminals as the Corn Belt Port Statistical Areas. Approval of the statistical area designations will aid the ports in attracting business and investments, grow the local economy and create new jobs within the community. The ranking of the Corn Belt Ports in the top 100 brings national recognition to the critical role that our region and our inland waterways play in strengthening the nation's economy, Congresswoman Cheri Bustos said. I was proud to work across the aisle to secure the federal designation of these ports and proud to see our ports continue to receive the recognition they deserve. Now, our work will continue as we utilize these rankings to raise awareness of the commodities produced by Northwest and Central Illinois' farmers and manufacturers and the opportunities provided by our inland waterway systems to drive investment in the region. Northeast Iowa communities already know how important our ports are, and today's ranking only further proves it, Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer said. We scored a major bipartisan win recently by having Iowa's ports designated as part of a Port Statistical Area, promising new opportunity and investment for our state. I'm happy to see our ports ranked in the top 100, and look forward to seeing them climb in these rankings. Access to inland waterways is critical to the economic viability of our communities in central and west-central Illinois. Inland waterways allow small businesses, farmers, and manufacturers to export commodities around the world and keep them competitive in the global economy,said Congressman Darin LaHood.The recognition of the Corn Belt Ports as some of the best in the nation will only strengthen economic opportunities across our region. In Congress, I'll continue to work with this bipartisan group to support the Corn Belt Ports. The inclusion of all three Corn Belt Ports in the 2019 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers port rankings highlights our region as a leader in inland waterway commerce, Congressman Dave Loebsack said. I am especially proud to note the tremendous growth for the Mississippi River Ports of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, which covers the entirety of the 2nd Congressional District's riverfront counties and its reported 275.9% increase in tonnage from the previous year. In September, Representatives Bustos, Finkenauer, Loebsack and LaHood sent a bipartisan letterto the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers asking for expedited approval of a local request to improve economic opportunity at Illinois and Iowa ports along the Mississippi River. The creation of the Corn Belt Ports Statistical Area will highlight the importance of the region in transporting goods. The report, issued by the Waterborne Commerce Statistics Center (WCSC), provides data for the Corn Belt Ports and will improve awareness of the importance of the region to the national economy and investing in inland waterway infrastructure. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-durbin-duckworth-illinois-delegation-members-urge-fema-to-expedite-public-assistance-reimbursements-for-covid-19-expenses/,"BUSTOS, DURBIN, DUCKWORTH, ILLINOIS DELEGATION MEMBERS URGE FEMA TO EXPEDITE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE REIMBURSEMENTS FOR COVID-19 EXPENSES",2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17) and U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today led Democratic members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) expressing concerns over the agency's processing of the State's requests for Public Assistance as it relates to COVID-19 expenses. States may apply to be reimbursed for eligible costs related to emergency protective measures amid the pandemic, such as purchases of PPE or testing supplies. To date, FEMA has approved less than five percent of Illinois' submitted claims, while taking an average of more than 90 days to process a claim. Furthermore, the delegation members cited reports that FEMA has retroactively applied new guidance to previously submitted claims, and further, that it has applied unpublished guidance to claims. Theseapparently retroactive or unofficial policies have been used to justify denials of reimbursement applications. We request expedient clarification on these policies and subsequent denials, as untimely guidance, nontransparent procedures, and moving goalposts only make it more difficult for States to navigate federal aidand at a time when their resources are already thinly stretched,Durbin said. The following Illinois Congressional Delegation members joined Bustos, Durbin and Duckworth in signing today's letter: U.S. Representatives Bobby Rush (D-IL-01), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Dan Lipinski (D-IL-03), Chuy Garcia (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14). Full text of today's letter is availablehereand below: October 27, 2020 Dear Administrator Gaynor, While we appreciate the support that the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) has thus far provided to the State of Illinois, we are writing today to express concerns with FEMA's processing of the State's requests for Public Assistance as it relates to COVID-19 expenses. To date, FEMA has approved less than five percent of Illinois's submitted claims, while taking an average of more than 90 days to process a claim. Furthermore, we have received reports that your agency has retroactively applied new guidance to previously submitted claims, and further, that it has applied unpublished guidance to claims. We also have received reports that these belated or unofficial policies have been used to justify denials of reimbursement applications. We request expedient clarification on these policies and subsequent denials, as untimely guidance, nontransparent procedures, and moving goalposts only make it more difficult for States to navigate federal aidand at a time when their resources are already thinly stretched. We urge you to direct your agency to be transparent, timely, and communicative as possible as they enforce administrative requirements, and to bear in mind the overarching goal to assist already-burdened states in this time of need. We look forward to hearing from you and stand ready should you need our assistance. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/icymi-bustos-highlights-federal-support-for-innovative-military-artillery-systems-in-visit-to-mandus-group/,ICYMI: Bustos Highlights Federal Support for Innovative Military Artillery Systems in Visit to Mandus Group,2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"ROCK ISLAND This week,Congresswoman Bustos(IL-17)toured Mandus Group, an innovative engineering and manufacturing firm based in Rock Island to highlight recently secured federal support for military artillery systems currently under development, such as those manufactured by the company. The Congresswoman met with representatives of Mandus Group and AM General, a Mandus Group partner, during the visit. VIEW PHOTOS of Congresswoman Bustos' visit here. When it comes to American soldiers' lives, there is no goal too big, no effort too great to keep our men and women in uniform safe,said Congresswoman Bustos.Here in the Quad Cities, we have a proud history of commitment to our men and women in uniform, and it is a top priority of mine to continue to support that work. The artillery technology being produced at Mandus Group makes it possible for our weapons systems to be more accurate and deployed faster and that saved time could mean a saved life. As the only company in the world that is producing this critical technology, I want to thank Mandus Group for their contributions to our community and to our military. AM General could not be more proud of our partnership with Mandus Group and Rock Island Arsenal to bring next generation artillery solutions to our men and women in uniform. We are grateful for the leadership and support of Representative Cheri Bustos as we grow this collaboration in the Quad Cities, which we believe will be a critical part of the national defense ecosystem of the future,said Andy Hove, President and CEO of AM General. A local jobs creator that is currently developing new military technologies, Mandus displayed prototypes of the artillery system technology, which consist of a 105mmsoft recoil howitzer weapon system, mounted on a Humvee named Hawkeye' and a 155mmweapon system mounted on a medium tactical vehicle, named Brutus'. As part of last year's Appropriations package, Congresswoman Bustos helped secure $10 million in funding for the 105mmHawkeye soft recoil howitzer technology, like that manufactured by Mandus, which the Army has stated they plan to procure for research and development. In this year's Appropriations package, Congresswoman Bustos helped secure $25 million for soft recoil technologies research, like that currently under development at Mandus Group. VIEW PHOTOS of Congresswoman Bustos' visit here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://shimkus.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/trump-administration-invests-over-14-million-in-bond-coles-and-shelby,"Trump Administration Invests Over $14 Million in Bond, Coles, and Shelby Counties for Water Infrastructure Projects",2020-10-28,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,IL,John Shimkus,S000364,shimkus.house.gov,,,legacy,"Maryville, Illinois Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15) today announced the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded more than $14 million to improve rural water and wastewater infrastructure in Greenville, Ashmore,Sigel, Cumberland, and Claremont. ""Federal investments like this are critical in rural communities where the capital costs of major infrastructure projects would be all but impossible to finance through other means, Shimkus said. I applaud Greenville, Ashemore, and the EJ Water Cooperative on their successful loan applications."" Through USDA, Greenville will receive a low-interest $14.2 million loan to build a new water treatment plant. The city's existing plant was built in 1969 and has reached the end of its useful life. ""The needed new Water Treatment Plant will provide the benefits of operating efficiencies and increased water production capability for current residents, businesses, and industries, Greenville Mayor Alan Gaffner said. With the new Water Treatment Plant., Greenville is well-positioned for growth into the future."" ""We thank Congressman Shimkus for his support of the Rural Development Loan, Gaffner added. These types of programs prioritize and address the needs of rural communities. Jobs, economic development, and community life all have a relationship to a safe and high-quality water system."" Shimkus also announced the Coles County Village of Ashemore will receive a low-interest loan of $320,000 to replace 10,631 linear feet of water main, service meters, fire hydrants, and related infrastructure. The EJ Water Cooperative will likewise receive a $180,000 low-interest loan to construct 49 miles of water main to serve residents ofSigel, Cumberland, and Claremont Townships in Shelby County. All three projects are being funded through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program at USDA. This week the Trump Administration announced a total of $891 million in grants through the program to help complete 220 projects in 43 states. ""Upgrading water infrastructure provides a path to economic growth and protects the health and safety of people who live and work in rural areas, USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Bette Brand said. Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Perdue, USDA continues to be a strong partner to rural communities, because we know that when rural America thrives, all of America thrives."" ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-announces-resolution-condemning-superspreader-events,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Announces Resolution Condemning Superspreader Events In Wake Of Outbreaks Following President Trumps Rallies,2020-10-27,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Today, Congressman Krishnamoorthi announced that he'll be introducing a resolution this week urging Americans to follow public health recommendations, denouncing COVID-19 superspreader events, and specifically condemning President Trump's rallies which have repeatedly been followed by coronavirus outbreaks. The coronavirus pandemic has already killed more than 226,000 Americans, and we all have a responsibility to follow the guidance of public health experts and doctors to keep each other safe, said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. An essential part of that is officials and candidates setting a good example for the public by refusing to hold or attend potential superspreader events gatherings at which public health recommendations on mask-wearing and social-distancing are disregarded, drastically increasing the risk of coronavirus infections and death. Defeating the coronavirus is only possible through Americans taking care of one another, and part of that means putting a stop to superspreader events. The text of Congressman Krishnamoorthi's resolution is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/bustos-smith-durbin-blunt-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-call-for-corps-to-prioritize-upper-mississippi-water-infrastructure-projects/,"BUSTOS, SMITH, DURBIN, BLUNT LEAD BIPARTISAN, BICAMERAL CALL FOR CORPS TO PRIORITIZE UPPER MISSISSIPPI WATER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS",2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. RepresentativesCheri Bustos(D-IL) andJason Smith(R-MO) andU.S. Senators Dick Durbin(D-IL) andRoy Blunt(R-MO) led a bipartisan, bicameral call for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to include construction funding for the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP) in the Fiscal Year 2021 Work Plan. In a letter, the lawmakers urged the Corps to take this next step toward lock modernization and ecosystem restoration to strengthen water infrastructure along the Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The inland waterway system is critical to the transportation of a number of American products and plays a key role in the agriculture economy. NESP, which was authorized in Title VIII of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007, would modernize and expand seven outdated locks and restore ecosystems. Including construction funding for NESP wouldbuild on the $4.5 million investment in preconstruction engineering and design (PED) for the projects in FY20. NESP is a critically important multi-purpose program that allows the Corps to address both navigation and ecosystem restoration in an integrated approach that construct new locks at seven existing sites, thereby opening the river up to two-way traffic,the lawmakers wrote. Our nation's water infrastructure plays a critical role in maintaining our competitiveness in the global economy by ensuring the safest, least expensive, most environmentally-friendly, and most efficient movement of goods to market, but the current backlog of outstanding water infrastructure projects pending before the Corps is putting that competitiveness at risk. This window in time, with a new construction start available, is the best opportunity to begin the long-awaited NESP program. Waterways Council, Inc. and its members greatly appreciate the leadership from Congresswoman Bustos, Congressman Smith, Senator Blunt, Senator Durbin and all who co-signed onto this letter, advocating for this critical program for the entire nation,said Tracy Zea, President and CEO of Waterways Council, Inc.America's farmers, our manufacturing base, and our construction trades need NESP to begin now. The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commends Senator Roy Blunt (R-Missouri.), Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.) and Congressman Jason Smith (R-Missouri.) for this bipartisan letter which will continue to build momentum for the urgently needed Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP),said Bobby Frederick, Vice President of Legislative Affairs and Public Policy for the National Grain and Feed Association.NESP will make American Agriculture more competitive through the construction of seven new 1,200-foot locks and dams on the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois Waterway. This additional capacity will reduce potential commercial barge traffic disruptions, help discipline rail rates and alleviate highway congestion, all while transporting commodities via the most environmentally friendly mode. With over fifty percent of all corn for export being transported on the inland waterway system, corn farmers rely heavily on efficient and reliable infrastructure of locks and dams,said John Linder, President of the National Corn Growers Association.We're thankful for Congresswoman Bustos, Congressman Smith, Senator Durbin, and Senator Blunt bringing attention to this important issue to ensure our growers are able to move their product efficiently and stay competitive. As America's #1 export crop with an average export value of more than $16 billion, we rely on U.S. inland waterways infrastructure to stay competitive in dynamic global markets, said Bill Gordon, President of the American Soybean Association and soy farmer from Worthington, Minnesota.The American Soybean Association appreciates the Corps' previous allocation of funds through NESP to improve locks along the Upper Mississippi and Illinois rivers, and we again look to the Corps to assure these vital improvements come to fruition through the FY2021 Work Plan. As America's soybean farmers are harvesting the 2020 crop this fall, the timeliness of these water infrastructure projects is all the more evidentand pressingfor our continued economic success. Text of the letter is below and can be foundhere. October 26, 2020 The Honorable R.D. James Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army 108 Army Pentagon Washington DC, 20310 Lieutenant General Scott A. Spellmon Chief of Engineers and Commanding General U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 441 G Street NW Washington, DC 20314-1000 Dear Assistant Secretary James and Lieutenant General Scott A. Spellmon: As you prepare the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Civil Works, we urge you to include a new start for a construction project through the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP). We appreciate that the Corps included $4.5 million for preconstruction engineering and design (PED) of the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois Waterway System projects in the FY20 Work Plan. A new start will allow the momentum of this work to continue; it is our understanding that, with a new start, the Corps would be ready for a construction award worth several million dollars for a project under NESP. Authorized in 2007, NESP is a critically important multi-purpose program that allows the Corps to address both navigation and ecosystem restoration in an integrated approach that construct new locks at seven existing sites, thereby opening the river up to two-way traffic. Additionally, NESP provides a comprehensive ecosystem restoration for the Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. Our nation's water infrastructure plays a critical role in maintaining our competitiveness in the global economy by ensuring the safest, least expensive, most environmentally-friendly, and most efficient movement of goods to market, but the current backlog of outstanding water infrastructure projects pending before the Corps is putting that competitiveness at risk.As this infrastructure continues to age (currently well past its intended lifetime) the risk of catastrophic failure grows. It is imperative that we address this issue before not after such a failure occurs. NESP maintains broad, bipartisan support in Congress, and, in recent fiscal years, both the House and Senate Energy and Water Appropriations bills and reports have included continued funding for PED and called for the Corps to advance projects authorized in Title VIII of the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (PL 110-114). We urge the Corps to move forward with a new construction start for NESP in the FY21 Work Plan. Thank you for your time and consideration of this important request. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-responds-dr-fauci-s-comment-president-trump-hasn-t,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Responds To Dr. Faucis Comment That President Trump Hasnt Attended Coronavirus Task Force Meetings In Several Months By Asking The President When He Last Attended One, And If He Will Again",2020-10-26,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL In the wake of Dr. Anthony Fauci's comment on Friday that President Trump hadn't attended a White House Coronavirus Taskforce meeting in months, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi wrote to the President, asking when he last attended a meeting of the Task Force, and if he has any intention of attending another. The letter is available here and its text follows below. October 26, 2020 Donald J. Trump President of the United States The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear President Trump, In light of the ongoing and escalating state of the COVID-19 pandemic, it took me by surprise to hear Dr. Anthony Fauci say on Meet the Press Daily on Friday that you hadn't attended any White House Coronavirus Task Force meetings in several months.[1] In light of Dr. Fauci's claim, my constituents and I would like to request the following information: When did you last attend a meeting of the White House Coronavirus Task Force? Do you have any intention of attending another meeting of the Task Force? The only way to defeat the coronavirus pandemic is to be listening directly to the experts to translate the best available information into the most effective policy. I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, Raja Krishnamoorthi Member of Congress ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bost.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bost-veterans-bill-signed-law,BOST VETERANS BILL SIGNED INTO LAW,2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Republican,Senate,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12), the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, today announced that President Trump has signed the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act (H.R. 6168) into law. This bipartisan bill, introduced by Bost and Representative Elaine Luria (D-VA), will ensure our nation's veterans receive the same annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) as Social Security Recipients. The bill would increase the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities beginning December 1, 2020. Now more than ever, it is critical that the men and women who have served our nation receive the benefits they have earned, said Bost. Many veterans and their families depend on these benefits to pay for necessities like food and medicine. I'm proud to have helped introduce this bipartisan bill and I am grateful that the President took this important step to provide an important cost-of-living adjustment for our veterans and their dependents. The Veterans' Compensation COLA Act would provide a cost-of-living increase for disability compensation; compensation for dependents; clothing allowance; dependency and indemnity compensation to surviving spouses; and, dependency and indemnity compensation to children paid of our wounded warriors and their families for injuries they suffered while serving our nation in uniform. This increase would begin December 1, 2020. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/illinois-biofuels-producers-industry-leaders-join-call-for-bustos-next-generation-fuel-act/,"Illinois Biofuels Producers, Industry Leaders Join Call for Bustos Next Generation Fuel Act",2020-10-23,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"It represents an opportunity for economic development for rural economies all over Illinois. a win for farmers, motorists, and the rural economy. an enormous step this legislation offers the path to a homegrown, green renewable fuel WASHINGTON Biofuels producers and leading organizations in Illinois are joining the call in support ofCongresswoman Cheri Bustos' (IL-17)Next Generation Fuels Acttoday, citing the bill's potential to increase demand for biofuels and corn and to create economic opportunity for rural communities. Introduced last month, Congresswoman Bustos' bill would leverage greater fuel octane to reduce carbon emissions from transportation, improve air quality by reducing the use of harmful aromatics and increase demand for biofuels. We need to work toward a future that builds economic opportunity for our producers while supporting sustainable, clean energy,Congresswoman Bustos said.With theNext Generation Fuels Act,we can both reduce carbon emissions and increase biofuels demand. I am thrilled to receive the support of these homegrown leaders today and look forward to working with them to take this next step toward a brighter tomorrow for our corn farmers and the biofuels industry. Corn farmers in Illinois are excited about the new demand opportunity made possible by theNext Generation Fuels Act. This is truly the next generation of corn and ethanol demand drivers since the Renewable Fuel Standard of 2005 and 2007,said Bill Leigh, Minonk, IL corn farmer and IL Corn Growers Association President.It represents an opportunity for economic development for rural economies all over Illinois. Additionally, Rep. Bustos's bill gives the American consumer a liquid fuel option that is good for the environment, good for public health, and good for the economy. It's a win-win. Farmers are always seeking to increase demand for crops we grow and to expand the market for biofuels. That's why we thank U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos' for her leadership on the Next Generation Fuels Act,said Illinois Farm Bureau president Richard Guebert, Jr, a Randolph County grain farmer.Rep. Bustos' bill is timely and lays the legislative groundwork for development, production, and use of environmentally friendly higher-octane, low-carbon fuels. Rep. Bustos' focus on developing next generation fuels is a win for farmers, motorists, and the rural economy. Higher octane ethanol blends will increase demand for our feedstocks, generate economic returns and ultimately cleaner air. Big River Resources, LLC applauds and thanks Congresswoman Bustos for her efforts on the development of the Next Generation Fuels Act of 2020. This bill recognizes the importance of ethanol as an efficient, low carbon, environmentally friendly fuel that supports our Midwest Agricultural Economy,said Jim Leiting, CEO, Big River Resources, LLC. As our Representative, Congresswoman Bustos has always been a good friend to Adkins Energy. We're grateful to her for fighting for clean, renewable energy that boosts our region's economy. We hope that the Next Generation Fuels Act will spur more growth for the ethanol industry.said Ray Baker, General Manager, Adkins Energy. Ethanol is a low carbon fuel that burns cleanly and increases the octane of gasoline, allowing internal combustion engines to operate more efficiently. PEI thanks Congresswoman Bustos for recognizing ethanol's unique low-carbon, high-octane benefits and we agree that renewable fuels will play a critically important role in the transition to a lower carbon economy.said Jim Sneed, Chief Commercial Officer, Pacific Ethanol Inc. (PEI) PEI owns and operates multiple facilities in Pekin, IL. This bill is an enormous step in the right direction on so many of the issues that have been limiting the benefits of renewable fuels. As our country moves rapidly toward a low-carbon future, this legislation offers the path to a homegrown, green renewable fuel that also offers higher octane for newer, more efficient engine technology. We thank Rep. Bustos for her longtime support for renewable fuels and her leadership in this particular effort.saidEric Mosbey, General Manager, Lincolnland Agri-Energy LLC. BACKGROUND Fuels with greater levels of octane are more stable and have the potential to make engines more fuel-efficient. This legislation establishes a minimum octane standard for gasoline and requires sources of the added octane value to reduce carbon emissions by at least 30 percent compared to baseline gasoline.The legislation limits the use of harmful aromatics in meeting this new higher octane standard, as well as in current-market gasoline. Due to ethanol's high octane rating, utilizing low-carbon, high-octane ethanol blends results in both additional fuel efficiency and significant greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction benefits. Ethanol is also priced lower than gasoline, making it the most cost-effective octane source. By requiring the new high octane fuel to utilize low-carbon sources,theNext Generation Fuels Actwill decarbonize liquid fuels as vehicle technologies advance. This requirement, coupled with a new limit on harmful aromatics content, ensures that progress already made to lower emissions continues. Using more petroleum-based sources to increase fuel octane would produce more carbon emissions, erase GHG reduction benefits from improved fuel economy and result in more emissions of harmful hydrocarbon aromatics, which degrade air quality and respiratory health. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/american-farm-bureau-federation-recognizes-congressman-krishnamoorthi-friend,American Farm Bureau Federation Recognizes Congressman Krishnamoorthi With The Friend Of Farm Bureau Award For His Work On Agricultural Issues,2020-10-22,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL In recognition of his outstanding service during the 116th Congress, the American Farm Bureau Federation recently recognized Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi with its Friend of Farm Bureau award. I'm grateful the American Farm Bureau Federation has seen fit to recognize my efforts with the Friend of Farm Bureau Award' and I look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure an even brighter future for American agriculture, said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi. Our farms are at the heart of our national prosperity and health, and I'm proud to fight for the farmers of Illinois and our nation in Washington. The American Farm Bureau Federation represents 6 million member families from all 50 states and is dedicated to promoting, protecting, and representing the interests of farmers and their families and working to build strong, prosperous agricultural communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://bustos.house.gov/release-bustos-slams-defense-dept-s-failure-to-answer-why-certain-states-are-favored-in-covid-19-national-guard-response/,RELEASE: Bustos Slams Defense Dept.s Failure to Answer Why Certain States are Favored in COVID-19 National Guard Response,2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Cheri Bustos,B001286,bustos.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today,Congresswoman Cheri Bustos(IL-17) responded to the Department of Defense's failure to explain why the current Administration requires some states to pay for a portion of National Guard COVID-19 response efforts, while fully funding others. The Department of Defense recently issued a response to lawmakers' inquiries about changes in the federal cost-share of National Guard deployments which burden some states with millions in unforeseen expenses, while exempting a total of five states from any cost. The letter offers no insight into the Administration's decision on the policy change and does not explain why states such as Florida, Texas and Arizona, have been exempted, while states like Michigan and Nevada have had their requests for full coverage denied. The Department of Defense has offered no explanation for why it stuck some cash-strapped states with the bill for COVID-19 response efforts, and their response raises more questions than it answers. While the federal government has historically paid the full share of costs for the National Guard to deploy for disaster relief efforts, the Administration has chosen to shirk their responsibility when it comes to COVID-19. Picking and choosing favorites with disaster relief funding is a dangerous game that puts American lives at risk. There are 50 states in our nation, not five, and the President should learn that he is responsible for all of them. Each state deserves to be supported in its response to the pandemic, whether they're on the President's favored list or not. I introducedthe UNITED Actto fully restore federal funding for the National Guard's coronavirus efforts, so that Americans aren't left to continue to suffer while the Administration continues to play political games. Read the full letter from the Department of Defense here.The initial letter, led by Rep. Adam Smith, to the Department of Defense can be found here. BACKGROUND In response to the COVID-19 crisis, members of the National Guard have been deployed across the country to assist with public health responses. Congresswoman Bustos recently introduced new legislation to force the Trump Administration to cover the full cost of National Guard deployments for COVID-19 response efforts in every state. Currently, only Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, and Texas receive full cost coverage. Congresswoman Bustos also recently led a callof more than 30 lawmakers urging the Trump Administration to extend the activations of men and women in the National Guard for the entire duration of the declared disasters and emergencies so they can continue to assist with the nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic uninterrupted. The letter demands the Administration explain the change in the federal cost-share of National Guard deployments which will force struggling states to cover a quarter of the cost, resulting in states being burdened with millions in unforeseen expenses. The lawmakers also raised concerns about why Florida and Texas were initially the only states exempt from the new cost-share agreements. Three additional states were later exempted, with no explanation provided. The Administration has also failed to implement a reliable plan for how long members of the National Guard will be activated. Rather than provide consistency to servicemembers and states, the Administration has frequently waited until the last minute to extend activations that were set to expire soon leaving states in the lurch as they continue to respond to the pandemic and servicemembers facing an uncertain future. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-schweikert-kelly-thompson-introduce-the-safe-testing-at-residence,"Rush, Schweikert, Kelly, Thompson Introduce the Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth Act",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.), David Schweikert (R-Ariz.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), and Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) announced the introduction of the Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth (START) Act. This bipartisan legislation would provide robust at-home COVID-19 testing for seniors and other vulnerable populations. I am pleased to join Congressman Schweikert, Congressman Kelly, and Congressman Thompson in introducing this critical legislation, which will make testing more accessible and safer for seniors in my district and around the country, said Rush. Robust testing is key to ensuring those exposed to this dreaded disease receive timely treatment and prevent the spread to others. The coronavirus pandemic has brought on unprecedented challenges for all Americans, particularly our vulnerable, senior populations who are most at risk for contracting COVID-19 and have continued to stay isolated from family and friends, said Schweikert. One area where we have seen incredibly positive changes has been for seniors utilizing telehealth and at-home care tools, with growing appreciation for the flexibility and comfort this care can provide. I am proud to introduce this legislation to continue our much-needed expansion of healthcare technology and I am hopeful this can be included in any future COVID-19 relief to support our seniors and vulnerable populations working to stay healthy and safe. Telehealth is revolutionizing medical care. Virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring are allowing Americans to receive top quality care in the comfort and safety of their own homes. This technology will allow seniors to be tested for COVID-19 from their living rooms, and this bill will expand access to this vital service, said Kelly. As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to impact us all, I am focused on ensuring that everyone can get the health care they need through telehealth, to fight the spread of the virus and keep people safe, said Thompson. That's why I am proud to join with Rep. Schweikert as co-chairs of the Telehealth Caucus to introduce this bill to help seniors get a COVID-19 test at home using telehealth. I look forward to working to pass this bill and continuing to increase the use of telehealth both now, and beyond our current crisis. We commend the sponsors of this commonsense legislation to encourage safe and convenient testing, while avoiding unnecessary exposure to the health care system where spread of Covid-19 is more likely and costs are higher, said Joel White, Executive Director, Health Innovation Alliance. Background: Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Family Foundation have found that U.S. adults age 65 and older account for roughly 16 percent of the population and 80 percent of COVID-19 deaths. The Safe Testing at Residence Telehealth Act of 2020 would amend the Social Security Act by adding coverage and payment for Medicare beneficiaries to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved at-home tests. The approved tests would help diagnose or discount a diagnosis of COVID-19 or other similar respiratory infection and be done in conjunction with an assistive telehealth consultation. Through this legislation, seniors will be able to safely consult with their physician from the comfort of their home. Relieved of risking exposure or coordinating transportation, families and health officials will now have more complete data to act on. Seniors prove to continue adapting to the new models of care made available thanks to generous telehealth waiver restrictions. From January to June of 2020, 43 percent of Medicare nationwide primary care claims have been through telehealth. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-introduces-bill-to-protect-scientific-independence-of-the-cdc-and,Rush Introduces Bill To Protect Scientific Independence of the CDC and FDA,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) introduced the Scientific Agencies Following Evidence and Guaranteeing that Unscientific Agendas are Refused and Denounced (SAFEGUARD) Act. This bill would create a Public Health Oversight Panel, which would be made up of a commission of six experts with experience in scientific review or oversight and would be chaired by the Assistant Secretary of Health. During public health emergencies, the panel would have veto power over all final regulations, guidance, and orders for the eight agencies overseen by the Assistant Secretary for Health including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), among others in order to ensure that science and not politics is driving decisions. In times of uncertainty, trust in science is more important than ever. And yet, during the COVID-19 public health emergency, the Trump Administration has undermined and undercut the scientific experts at our nation's public health agencies, by contradicting, muddling, and delaying the information and reports produced by reputable scientists, said Rep. Rush. This has real world consequences. In a recent survey, only 58 percent of the US public report that they plan to get the vaccine as soon as it is available, and among Black individuals, the predicted uptake is only 43 percent. The American people need to be able to trust in our government's scientific integrity in order to beat this dreaded disease and to get life back to normal. That is why I am proud to introduce a bill that would safeguard our scientific agencies from political interference during public health emergencies. In an effort to give the impression that the pandemic was under control, the Trump Administration has repeatedly contradicted scientists at the CDC, FDA, and NIH, which has made the pandemic worse and has damaged the reputations of these public health agencies. Some recent examples of political interference include: In August, the CDC published guidelines that stated it was not necessary to test those who were asymptomatic that had been exposed to COVID-19. The New York Times reported that HHS officials published the guidance on the CDC's website over the objections of CDC scientists. In September, Politico reported that politically appointed HHS communications officials had demanded the power to review and revise the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports to align them more closely with the President's claims. HHS spokesperson Michael Caputo urged the CDC to retroactively alter reports that he claimed overstated the dangers of COVID-19. While the CDC has resisted efforts to retroactively correct reports they have published, some reports including a CDC report that examined how doctors were prescribing hydroxychloroquine were delayed for a month as Mr. Caputo and his team reviewed it. In September, the CDC briefly published guidelines on its website stating that COVID-19 could spread through airborne particles, before pulling it down three days later. However, on October 5, the CDC once again updated its guidelines to state that COVID-19 could be transmitted by airborne particles, including by those who are further than six feet apart. According to NPR, many who study COVID-19 had been warning of this transmission for months. On September 23, 2020, President Trump threatened to intervene and invalidate stricter FDA guidelines for the release of vaccine. The New York Times reported that the main sticking point had been the requirement that those who participated in clinical trials be tracked for a median of two months after they received the vaccine, which would prevent an emergency authorization before the election. While the White House eventually cleared these guidelines, the efforts by the President to politicize vaccine approval undercuts trust in scientists and the FDA. Dr. Rick Bright was transferred from his role as the director of Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) and assistant secretary for preparedness and response to a much narrower role at the NIH after he expressed concerns about an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for hydroxychloroquine being used by patients in a non-supervised setting. In October, according to his lawyers, Dr. Bright was forced to leave his position at NIH because he can no longer sit idly by and work for an administration that ignores scientific expertise, overrules public health guidance and disrespects career scientists, resulting in the sickness and death of hundreds of thousands of Americans. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://rush.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rush-introduces-legislation-calling-on-states-to-ban-the-box,Rush Introduces Legislation Calling on States To Ban the Box,2020-10-20,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Bobby Rush,R000515,rush.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) introduced a resolution calling on states to implement ban the box legislation, prohibiting employers from asking about a job applicant's criminal history in the early stages of their application. We should be doing all we can to encourage those who are attempting to move on from their past criminal convictions by finding gainful employment, not erecting barriers for them. It has been shown that when a job applicant discloses a criminal conviction, their chances of being called back for an interview are cut in half, said Rush. Immediately inquiring about an applicant's conviction history can stifle their careers and prevent them from rebuilding their lives. Everyone deserves a second chance to build a productive and law-abiding life, and banning the box is a critical step in ensuring everybody has that chance. We must also remember that the racial disparities in our criminal justice system can lead to racial disparities in our unemployment figures. Initially asking job applicants for their criminal histories can only increase these inequalities. I applaud the 13 states that have already implemented legislation banning the box and invite my colleagues to join me in supporting this vital measure. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-requests-information-dni-ratcliffe-russian-use-qanon,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Requests Information From DNI Ratcliffe On Russian Use QAnon In Disinformation Efforts,2020-10-19,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi wrote to Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe regarding Russian attempts to use the QAnon conspiracy theory movement as an element of its disinformation campaign against the United States. The Congressman's letter is available here and its text follows. below. October 19, 2020 The Honorable John Ratcliffe Director of National Intelligence Office of the Director of National Intelligence Washington, D.C. 20511 Dear Director Ratcliffe, I am writing to express my strong concern regarding outside reports that Russian state-connected actors have amplified dangerous QAnon conspiracy theories. This is an issue of increasing importance as a number of public officials, including the President, have refused to denounce the movement while even praising its adherents.[1] In the past few years, the QAnon conspiracy theory group has gained a foothold in the radical right-wing movement in the United States. Individuals participating in QAnon have widely advanced false narratives such as variations on age-old anti-Semitic conspiracies.[2] Beyond sharing false information, the movement's followers have incited and participated in violence across the country.[3][4] As a result of this real-world violence, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook have imposed restrictions on QAnon-related content.[5] As you know, Russia interfered in the 2016 election and is doing so again.[6][7][8] It is therefore alarming that evidence is rapidly mounting that Kremlin-linked actors are propagating QAnon content on a widespread basis online.[9][10] As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and in building on last week's unclassified hearing with third-party experts on these threats, I request the following information: Any Intelligence Community analysis that addresses any aspect of the public reporting with respect to Russia potentially using QAnon as an element of its disinformation or foreign influence efforts. A description of any efforts the Intelligence Community is taking or has taken to assess whether Kremlin-linked actors are propagating, amplifying, or otherwise engaging with QAnon content. Given the importance of public information and education, I request an unclassified response to the above questions no later than October 30, 2020. Sincerely, Raja Krishnamoorthi Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-presses-vp-pence-urge-campaigns-keep,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Presses VP Pence To Urge Campaigns To Keep Misrepresentations Of COVID Task Force Experts & Public Health Officials Out Of Ads,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi sent a letter to Vice President Mike Pence as Chair of the White House Coronavirus Task Force to urge him to safeguard the credibility of the Task Force by requesting that political campaigns refrain from using statements from Task Force experts and other public health officials in advertisements that take their statements out of context or otherwise contribute to the spread of misinformation. Congressman Krishnamoorthi's letter follows an October advertisement from the Trump campaign that included a clip of Dr. Anthony Fauci saying, I can't imagine that anybody could be doing more, presenting the statement as if he was referring to President Trump when, according to Dr. Fauci, he was referring to the efforts of federal public health officials. In response to the political advertisement, Dr. Fauci stated, In my nearly five decades of public service, I have never publicly endorsed any political candidate. Congressman Krishnamoorthi has objected to the Trump campaign's use of Dr. Fauci in their political advertisement as it misconstrued his comments and dangerously politicized an unbiased civil servant. Dr. Fauci has expressed his desire to remain an apolitical source of credible, unbiased information for the American people, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. The misleading use of Dr. Fauci in political advertisements is counterproductive to the crucial goal of mitigating the current crisis by providing the public with the most reliable available information. In Congressman Krishnamoorthi's letter to Vice President Pence, he asks that VP Pence actively separate the members of his Task Force from political campaigns in order to ensure the integrity and scientific credibility of the Task Force. A copy of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-submits-statement-congressional-record-commemorating,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Submits Statement Into The Congressional Record Commemorating Distracted Driving Awareness Month,2020-10-16,2020,2020-10,Democrat,Senate,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,,,legacy,"SCHAUMBURG, IL Today, Congressman Krishnamoorthi submitted a statement into the Congressional Record commemorating Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This year marks 10 years since Congress declared the first Distracted Driving Awareness Month in 2010, and it has continued to be an important issue as more than 700 people die or are injured every day in the United States as a result of distracted driving crashes. In 2018, approximately 2,841 people died in distraction-affected driving crashes, and the National Safety Council estimates that only 62% of drivers were very willing to obey state laws preventing cell phone use. To address the issue of distracted driving, Congressman Krishnamoorthi introduced the States Afforded Funding Extensions To Oppose Driving Recklessly In Vehicular Engagements (SAFE TO DRIVE) Act together with Congressman Mike Gallagher (WI-08). This legislation would incentivize states to change laws to educate drivers and enforce distracted driving laws. The use of electronic devices on the road is all too common and dangerous. In one second, the mistake of looking at your cell phone while driving can be irreversible and tragic. I'm proud to be promoting road safety in my district and across the country through the SAFE TO DRIVE Act, said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. I hope that observing this Distracted Driving Awareness Month provides just that awareness to the seriousness of the issue of distracted driving. The National Safety Council, an organization that focuses on safety policies and mitigating preventable causes of death -- such as distracted driving, has led the way in combatting distracted driving through measures including the SAFE TO DRIVE Act, which it's endorsed. We continue to accept crashes and near-misses as the cost of connectivity, said Lorraine M. Martin, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. We must commit to changing our culture around distracted driving particularly with a national pandemic compounding traffic safety even further. We applaud Congressman Krishnamoorthi for recognizing Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the need for better education. Saving lives will mean disconnecting behind the wheel once and for all.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z