url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-secures-over-19-5-million-to-improve-louisiana-roadway-safety-from-his-infrastructure-bill/,Cassidy Secures Over $19.5 Million to Improve Louisiana Roadway Safety from His Infrastructure Bill,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $19,517,973 in federal funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. The funding will help communities across the state improve traffic safety, reduce serious injuries and fatalities, and make local roads safer for families, pedestrians, and first responders.

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2340,The Clock is Ticking: Students Have Only a Few Months to Make Grad School Decisions - Kennedy Pushes for Passage of the LEAP Act to Provide Equal Access to Higher Education for In-Demand Professions,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"The Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals Act Restores Fairness and Financial Parity for all Advanced Degree Students

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This legislation is endorsed by the AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers; American Occupational Therapy Association; American Physical Therapy Association; Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health; Council on Social Work Education; National Association of Social Workers; National Board of Certification of Occupational Therapy; National Hispanic Health Foundation; Hispanic Health Professionals Network; National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates; Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-legislation-to-improve-veterans-health-care-passes-senate/,Cassidy Legislation to Improve Veterans’ Health Care Passes Senate,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the U.S. Senate passage of his Veterans Health Administration Policy Advisory Commission (VetPAC) Act. The legislation creates a new VetPAC to facilitate a transparent, expert-driven review process for the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) operations. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

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

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/local-spotlight-cassidy-highlights-local-artist-andrew-coleman-for-sharing-the-gospel-through-woodworking/,LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: Cassidy Highlights Local Artist Andrew Coleman for Sharing the Gospel through Woodworking,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"(Click here to watch and here to download)

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

Read his full December 2025 Local Spotlight below:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Background

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-tax-credit-to-help-families-and-small-businesses-prepare-for-natural-disasters/,Cassidy Introduces Tax Credit to Help Families and Small Businesses Prepare for Natural Disasters,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Shelter Act to help families and small businesses protect their homes and properties from future natural disasters and combat rising insurance costs. The legislation would create a first-of-its-kind disaster mitigation tax credit for families and business owners in disaster-prone areas.

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

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-kennedy-introduce-resolution-commemorating-bicentennial-of-centenary-college-of-louisiana/,"Cassidy, Kennedy Introduce Resolution Commemorating Bicentennial of Centenary College of Louisiana",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced a resolution commending Centenary College of Louisiana on the occasion of its bicentennial for its contributions to higher education in Louisiana and across the country.

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

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-ricketts-republican-colleagues-support-president-trumps-executive-order-to-stop-politically-motivated-debanking/,"Cassidy, Ricketts, Republican Colleagues Support President Trump’s Executive Order to Stop Politically Motivated Debanking",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today joined U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Republican colleagues in urging the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to combat politically motivated “debanking” in line with President Trump’s recent Executive Order. The senators called on the OCC to ensure access to financial services is based on objective, individualized, risk-based standards and not political discrimination. In recent years, conservative, religious, and other lawful organizations have reported being denied or stripped of banking services based on their beliefs or affiliations, raising serious concerns about discrimination within the financial system.

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

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

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

Read the full text of the letter here or below.

Dear Comptroller Gould:

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

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

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-bill-to-help-families-claim-the-earned-income-and-child-tax-credits-after-a-natural-disaster/,Cassidy Introduces Bill to Help Families Claim the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits After a Natural Disaster,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Working Families Disaster Tax Relief Act to allow disaster-impacted working families to use the previous year’s income to claim the Child Tax Credit (CTC) and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) after a presidential major disaster declaration.

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

The Working Families Disaster Tax Relief Act would:

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

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

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-thune-introduce-bill-to-protect-louisiana-crawfish-industry/,"Cassidy, Thune Introduce Bill to Protect Louisiana Crawfish Industry",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) introduced the China Trade Cheating Restitution Act, which would direct Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to pay $38.5 million from the interest on anti-dumping duties received from Chinese imports to certain agricultural sectors harmed by China’s illegal trade practices, including $10.6 million for crawfish producers.

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

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

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

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

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

The China Trade Cheating Restitution Act would:

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

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-cassidy-applauds-louisiana-opting-in-to-trump-backed-school-choice-program/,ICYMI: Cassidy Applauds Louisiana Opting in to Trump-Backed School Choice Program,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released a statement applauding Louisiana for opting in to the upcoming federal school choice scholarship tax credit. Cassidy secured this provision in Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cut bill that passed earlier this year. In October, Cassidy sent letters to governors across the country urging them to opt-in to the program.

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

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

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2339,"After GOP Spending Bill Slashes Student Loan Limits for Nurses, PTs, OTs, and More, Kennedy and Colleagues Introduce LEAP Act to Level Playing Field for Healthcare Professionals",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"H.R. 1 Cut Loan Limits in Half for Graduate Student Professions, Maxing Out at $100,000

LEAP Act Will Ensure that Graduate Students and Professional Students Receive the Same Amount of Borrowing Capacity, Opening Careers up to More Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26), alongside Rep. Jill Tokuda (HI-2) and Rep. Shomari Figures (AL-2), introduced the Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals (LEAP) Act. This legislation corrects a disparity made in H.R. 1, the Republican-led reconciliation bill, which drastically reduced borrowing power for advanced degree essential health students such as nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and public health workers, while leaving limits for other professionals untouched.

(Full press conference video available here)

Prior to H.R. 1, post-baccalaureate students were able to borrow up to the cost of attendance for federal lending through the Grad PLUS program. However, H.R. 1 eliminated this program and established a two-tiered system for direct unsubsidized loans: a higher $50,000 annual limit for “professional” degrees (such as MDs, JDs, and PharmDs) and a slashed $20,500 annual limit for “graduate” degrees (such as nursing, PT, OT, and Public Health). The LEAP Act creates parity by raising the cap for graduate students, ensuring these vital professionals have the same borrowing capacity as their peers.

“When I went to grad school to become an OT, I had to take out loans,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I remember filling out those forms, hoping I’d have enough to cover tuition, books, and rent. I took on that debt because I wanted to build a better future for my family, and because I wanted to help people. Without the LEAP Act, we face a future of fewer nurses at the bedside, fewer therapists helping patients recover, fewer specialists serving rural communities, and fewer mental health providers at a time when this nation is desperate for them. I urge my colleagues to pass this bill into law and to provide equity for these vital healthcare providers.”

“Regardless of whatever misguided label the Department of Education wants to slap on these programs, nursing, physical therapy, and other advanced health training are health care professions. To say otherwise is offensive, and the people who step up to serve our communities in these fields are professionals,” said Rep. Tokuda (D-HI-02). ""The Big, Ugly Bill once again failed Americans by refusing to recognize the urgent need for these health care workers in every state, and by making it harder for students to enter these critical fields. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Loan Equity for Advanced Professional Act. This bill ensures equal access to federal student loans so graduate and professional students can finish their degrees, get to work, and help shore up the health workforce our communities depend on.”

“The recent category change of student loan programs is yet another attempt by the administration to devalue higher education, and it is hurting students in Alabama and across the country,” said Rep. Shomari Figures (D-AL-02). “That kind of policy is just wrong. This bill says clearly that we’re not going to let Trump dismantle opportunities for the next generation. The Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals Act restores fairness, raises loan limits, and ensures students won’t be forced to walk away from their dreams.”

""Social workers are professionals, and they should have the same level of federal financial aid options as their professional colleagues,” said Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C, CEO of National Association of Social Workers (NASW). ""NASW is proud to endorse the Loan Equity for Advanced Professionals (LEAP) Act, which would allow all graduate programs to have the same student loan limits. This common sense legislation would mitigate actions by the Department of Education to differentiate student loan limits between graduate and professional programs.""

“The LEAP Act is a critical step toward protecting access to education for the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said American Occupational Therapy Association Chief Executive Officer Katie Jordan, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA. “At a time of severe nationwide workforce shortages, it’s essential that future students can pursue careers in occupational therapy and other essential health professions. Strengthening our healthcare workforce starts with equitable access to graduate education, and AOTA is proud to collaborate with Congressman Kennedy on this commonsense solution.”

“The National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) supports the LEAP Act’s commitment to restoring federal loan access for occupational therapy students,” said Angela Macauley, President & CEO of NBCOT. “The financial demands of OT graduate education are significant, and those entering the profession deserve the same support as their peers in other professional healthcare programs. With many states already below recommended workforce levels, preserving access to these loans is essential to maintaining the pipeline and protecting public access to care.

“The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) supports maintaining appropriate federal loan access for MSW students and expanding federal funding opportunities that make social work education attainable,” said Matt Hooper, Vice President of CSWE. “This is essential to upholding a strong and effective workforce that supports individuals, families, and communities nationwide.""

“We applaud Congressman Tim Kennedy for calling for the reversal of the Department of Education’s decision to impose stricter federal loan limits on certain advanced degree programs,” said Dr. Elena Rios, president of the National Hispanic Health Foundation. ""Students in high-demand healthcare fields would be able to borrow adequate levels of loans.”

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

This legislation is endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers; American Occupational Therapy Association; American Physical Therapy Association; Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health; Council on Social Work Education; National Association of Social Workers; National Board of Certification of Occupational Therapy; National Hispanic Health Foundation; Hispanic Health Professionals Network; National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates; Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions.

This legislation is cosponsored by Representatives Angie Craig, Suzan DelBene, Debbie Dingell, Dwight Evans, Cleo Fields, Dan Goldman, Pablo Hernandez, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Greg Landsman, George Latimer, LaMonica McIver, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Grace Meng, Chellie Pingree, Stacey Plaskett, Lateefah Simon, Suhas Subramanyam, Shri Thanedar, Dina Titus, Rashida Tlaib, and Nydia Velazquez.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-secures-louisiana-wins-in-national-defense-package-headed-to-president-trumps-desk/,Cassidy Secures Louisiana Wins in National Defense Package Headed to President Trump’s Desk,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) issued the following statement on his support for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) headed to President Donald Trump’s desk to be signed into law. The package includes several key Louisiana priorities Cassidy worked on with others to secure.

“America’s strength begins with the men and women who serve,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s invest in our service members and their families to ensure the United States remains prepared to face any challenge.”

Provisions Cassidy helped champion for Louisiana in the NDAA include:

$116 million for the Weapons Generation Facility at Barksdale.

$18 million for personnel housing at Barksdale.

$2.2 million for design work for a Child Development Center at Barksdale.

$931 million for the continued modernization of the B-52 bomber which will primarily go to Barksdale.

The NDAA also includes language to:

Establish a Military–Civilian Medical Surge Program as a program of record, building on Cassidy’s prior $6 million investment that added LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) as a National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) pilot site. This will stabilize long-term funding, strengthen LSUHS’s partnership with Barksdale and the Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs, and enhance Louisiana’s role in national disaster and medical readiness.

Codify the Air Force Global Strike Command, solidifying even further the importance of Barksdale’s Global Strike Command.

Add specific authorities and funding limitations related to Medium and Large Unmanned Surface Vessels. The bill exempts unmanned surface and underwater vehicles from specific senior technical authority requirements to accelerate development and acquisition, directly benefiting shipbuilders in Louisiana.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-applauds-15-million-investment-in-louisiana-education/,Cassidy Applauds $15 Million Investment in Louisiana Education,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today applauded a $15 million federal grant awarded to the Louisiana Department of Education through the U.S. Department of Education’s Education Innovation and Research (EIR) Expansion program. The funding will support evidence-based literacy initiatives aimed at improving student achievement, particularly for high-need students.

“Strong literacy skills are the foundation for everything that comes next in school and in life,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Louisiana has shown real progress, and this funding helps take what’s working and expand it so more students can succeed.”

Background

The award builds on Louisiana’s statewide push to improve literacy and comes as national leaders point to the state’s progress. Earlier this year, Cassidy joined U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and education leaders in Baton Rouge for a roundtable on child literacy, where Louisiana’s results were highlighted as a model for other states.

According to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, Louisiana is one of only three states where fourth-grade reading scores met or exceeded pre-pandemic levels, and the only state where eighth-grade reading scores fully recovered to 2019 levels. Recently, Cassidy released a report outlining ways to improve child literacy and fix the broken K-12 education system to better serve American children and families. He also is leading the 21st Century Dyslexia Act to promote early screening for dyslexia.

The EIR Expansion program supports the growth of innovative, research-backed approaches that have shown results in improving educational outcomes. Louisiana’s award reflects confidence in the state’s use of evidence-based classroom strategies that help students build strong foundational skills.

Cassidy has also pushed to give parents more tools to support their children’s education, including securing the inclusion of his Educational Choice for Children Act in President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts bill, giving families more opportunities to choose the school that best fits their child’s needs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-bill-to-help-americans-plan-for-life-changing-illness/,Cassidy Introduces Bill to Help Americans Plan for Life-Changing Illness,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Medicare Advance Planning (MAP) for Care Act to encourage Medicare beneficiaries to create electronic advance directives—legal documents that allow patients to clearly articulate their preferences for their medical care should they suffer from a debilitating illness or condition. The bill encourages Medicare beneficiaries to create and register a certified and secure advance directive online and provides beneficiaries with access to a website with a range of options.

“When someone is discussing end of life care with his or her doctor, they often feel powerless. This bill gives them control over the decisions in the last part of their life,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) in introducing the legislation.

Background

According to a 2006 study by the Pew Research Center, 70 percent of Americans have thought about their health care preferences should they be faced with a life-threatening illness or injury, but only one-third have completed an advance directive. Under the MAP Act, Medicare beneficiaries would be able to voluntarily create and register an electronic advance directive with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) at any time. Advance directives would be created through and maintained by outside organizations certified by CMS, and could be modified or terminated at any time by the beneficiary. An advance directive would include any written statement that outlines the kind of treatment and care a beneficiary wants or does not want under certain conditions, and can include identification of a health care proxy.

To address concerns about confidentiality, the MAP for Care Act requires both CMS and outside groups maintaining advance directives to hold the highest standards for privacy and security protection as well as system functionality. CMS would only keep track of the certified organization through which a beneficiary has created an advance directive and would not keep a database of these documents. The bill does not interfere with any state laws governing advance directives.

The bill is supported by the National Right to Life Committee, the American College of Emergency Physicians, MyDirectives, the American Nurses Association, National Healthcare Decisions Day, Koda Health, and US Acute Care Solutions.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-celebrates-signing-of-support-act-in-new-orleans/,Cassidy Celebrates Signing of SUPPORT Act in New Orleans,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"METAIRIE – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today held an event to celebrate President Trump signing into law his SUPPORT Act, which bolsters prevention, treatment, and recovery services for Americans with substance use disorders and mental illness. The event also honored angel families who lost loved ones to fentanyl and was hosted by the Southeast Louisiana branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

“President Trump and I are combating the addiction and mental health crisis head on,” said Dr. Cassidy. “That’s why we worked together to sign the SUPPORT Act into law to give nurses, therapists, and first responders the resources they need to save lives.”

Since arriving in Congress, Cassidy has worked with President Trump to end the opioid crisis and improve access to mental health care.

In addition to Cassidy’s SUPPORT Act, President Trump signed Cassidy’s HALT Fentanyl Act into law earlier this year. The bill gives law enforcement another tool to crack down on drug dealers by permanently scheduling fentanyl substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act. Cassidy joined Trump at the White House for the bill signing, and hosted his own event in Baton Rouge to honor those whose families have been affected by fentanyl overdoses.

At the event, angel families, people in recovery, and Washington Parish Sheriff Jason Smith shared their stories. Additionally, Nick Richard, the Executive Director of NAMI Southeast Louisiana, thanked Cassidy for supporting efforts to break the cycle of addiction and mental illness.

“On behalf of NAMI Southeast Louisiana, I want to thank Senator Cassidy for his leadership in championing the SUPPORT Act,” said Mr. Richard. “As we stand alongside survivors and families grieving unimaginable loss, this legislation gives us real hope; hope that people living with mental illness can get help sooner, that crises can be prevented, and that lives can be saved. Mental health affects every corner of our community, and we appreciate the Senator’s continued commitment to expanding timely, compassionate care for our community.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2338,"Kennedy Introduces Legislation to Safeguard Emergency Alerts Funding, Protect Public Safety Communications",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"SAFE Comms Act Pushes Back Against Trump’s Attacks on Lifesaving FEMA Programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26), along with Representatives Rob Menendez (NJ-08), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Nanette Barragan (CA-44), introduced the Supporting and Advancing Federal Emergency Communications through Infrastructure (SAFE Comms) Act, legislation to ensure that local broadcasters can continue to deliver lifesaving emergency alerts despite disruptions to the federal grant program that supports them. Specifically, the bill requires the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to administer and disburse funds through the Next Generation Warning System (NGWS) grant program, guaranteeing that already-approved funds to improve emergency alerting reach communities across New York State and the nation.

“As Ranking Member of the Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee, it is my priority to ensure that the bedrock of our emergency alerting system - local stations - receive promised support from Congress,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “In the face of this President’s assault on FEMA and its lifesaving programs, we must guarantee the continuity of the Next Generation Warning System. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to ensure that local communities in Western New York and across the U.S. continue to benefit from critical federal investments in emergency alerting infrastructure.”

“FEMA programs like the Next Generation Warning System are crucial to ensuring that our communities stay up-to-date with life-saving emergency information,” said Congressman Menendez. “With Republican cuts to public broadcasting, we must continue to fund and protect this program so local public media stations can provide timely alerts to New Jerseyans in the most critical moments.”

“Local public TV and radio stations are a lifeline during emergencies, especially in rural and underserved communities,” said Congresswoman Barragán. “The Next Generation Warning System Grant Program helps these stations get the resources they need to send timely alerts when people need them most. I’m proud to join Reps. Kennedy, Menendez, and McClain Delaney in co-leading this effort to safeguard the future of the program and make sure every community has the information it needs during disasters.”

""Every second counts when protecting the public from natural disasters and other emergencies, and next-generation warning systems are essential to safeguarding lives and property,” said Congresswoman McClain Delaney. “With the Corporation for Public Broadcasting now closed, FEMA must deliver Congressionally appropriated funds directly – and without delay – to local broadcasters. I’m proud to support legislation that provides this critical fix as we continue modernizing and strengthening our nation’s warning capabilities, building more prepared and resilient communities.""

“Buffalo Toronto Public Media, like all public media radio and television stations, acts as the backbone of the national emergency alert system. The life-saving alerts keep people informed across the country and state and in all four corners of Western New York. Funding for the NGWS is critical for public media stations to keep the system working, up to date, and to expand their reach, especially into rural and underserved areas. Since 2022, Buffalo Toronto Public Media has sent nearly 30,000 Wireless Emergency Alerts via its television and radio broadcast towers. Buffalo Toronto Public Media is in full support of Congressman Kennedy’s efforts to ensure that FEMA stewards these funds towards public media stations and to the communities they serve.” – Tom Calderone, President & CEO of Buffalo Toronto Public Media

“America’s Public Television Stations, on behalf of the 158 locally operated, locally controlled public television stations, commend Representative Kennedy and the other co-sponsors for the introduction of the SAFE Comms Act. This bill recognizes the lifesaving work of local public broadcasting stations and requires that FEMA follow Congressional intent in spending funds that Congress has already appropriated to support local stations’ public safety services. We greatly appreciate the long-standing bipartisan support for the Next Generation Warning System at FEMA and are grateful that this legislation would ensure that this critical program continues to support the lifesaving emergency alert, warning and public safety services provided to local communities by their public broadcasting stations.” – Kate Riley, CEO & President of America’s Public Television Stations

Established by Congress in 2022, the NGWS grant program allows public media stations to upgrade technology and infrastructure used to broadcast emergency alerts. The program, implemented by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), strengthens reliability and resilience for emergency communications including upgrading transmitters, expanding coverage, and improving the ability to reach vulnerable and rural populations. Every day, local public radio and television stations serve as lifelines for communities across the United States, delivering critical, real-time information to families when disaster strikes. From lake effect snowstorms to flash floods, Western New Yorkers rely on these trusted resources to provide the timely alerts that save lives. Alarmingly, a breakdown in federal funding and grant administration, spurred by the Trump administration, has put this funding at risk.

In July, congressional Republicans passed the Rescissions Act of 2025 which defunded CPB, the lone administrator of the NGWS grant program. Without CPB to manage the NGWS grant program, millions of dollars in previously approved funding were left in limbo at FEMA, jeopardizing upgrades for critical technology that ensure emergency alerts reach people when they’re needed most.

The SAFE Comms Act safeguards continuity and accountability by directing FEMA to assume full responsibility for the NGWS program, disburse already obligated Fiscal Year 2022 funds within 180 days of bill enactment, and begin the process of awarding grants for Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024. Through Congressman Kennedy’s bill, local stations will be able to continue improving their emergency communications systems without further delay.

This legislation is endorsed by Buffalo Toronto Public Media and America’s Public Television Stations.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2337,Kennedy Slams Noem’s Failures That Have Put Western New York and the Nation at Risk,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"During Committee Hearing Kennedy Grills DHS Secretary Noem, Calls for Resignation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Homeland Security Committee hearing, Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) pressed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about the agency’s unlawful immigration raids, the dismantling of our nation’s emergency preparedness and management capabilities, and unprecedented cuts to counterterrorism funding. Kennedy condemned the deviation from the core missions of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) during Noem’s tenure, highlighting a pattern of politically-driven decisions that have made Americans less safe and stripped New York State of essential national security funding.

During the hearing, Kennedy delivered a pointed rebuke of the Secretary’s failed leadership, stating: “Your cuts are blatantly political, callous, and outright dangerous. It is clear that you have no interest in countering real threats to the homeland. While high-risk cities and disaster zones wait for help, you’ve devoted the past 11 months to violent raids, anti-police policies, and nonstop photo-ops. You’ve brought shame to a Department that was created in a time of unity to protect our people, and it is in the best interest of this nation that you resign immediately.”

(Congressman Kennedy’s Full Hearing Remarks)

Under Secretary Noem, DHS has slashed over 90 percent of New York State’s counterterrorism funds, including $134 million in Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) funding intended to protect New York City, the nation’s top terrorism target. The State Homeland Security Program cuts alone eliminated $1.7 million from Erie County and nearly $400,000 from Niagara County, jeopardizing local preparedness and emergency response capacity.

As Ranking Member of the Emergency Management & Technology Subcommittee, Kennedy questioned Secretary Noem’s sweeping attacks on FEMA’s workforce, capabilities, and grant programs. Her cancellation of the nationwide Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program erased funding for flood mitigation, emergency communications upgrades, and infrastructure improvements across the nation, including a $284,000 award for Buffalo for building code modernization. Kennedy also highlighted Noem’s mismanagement of FEMA’s response to catastrophic flooding in Central Texas in July of this year, including a three-day delay in aid and unanswered emergency lines.

Kennedy emphasized that these failures are a product of the reckless decisions made by an administration more focused on carrying out extreme and unlawful immigration practices than responsibly monitoring real threats to the homeland, leaving communities like Western New York unnecessarily vulnerable.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/chair-cassidy-slams-democrats-voting-to-raise-health-care-costs-block-money-to-american-families/,"Chair Cassidy Slams Democrats Voting to Raise Health Care Costs, Block Money to American Families",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, slammed Democrats for voting to raise health costs on millions of Americans and preventing families from receiving up to $5,000 to pay for care.

Cassidy’s Republican legislation, introduced alongside Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-ID), lowers insurance premiums by 11 percent, lowers out-of-pocket costs, and gives thousands of dollars directly to families to control their own care. This bill is an alternative to Democrats’ temporary COVID bonuses, which send billions of tax dollars to giant insurance companies without lowering insurance premiums.

“Democrats want to force families to pay $6,000 out-of-pocket before their insurance kicks in. Republicans want to make health care affordable and put thousands in patients’ pockets to help pay for their out-of-pocket expenses,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Democrats need to stop playing politics with people’s health care and come to the table to find real solutions.”

Before the vote, Cassidy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor in support of the Republican legislation.

Cassidy has continuously called for Congress to work together on solutions to lower the cost of health insurance for families. Over the past few months, Cassidy has urged Congress to address rising health care costs in a Senate Finance Committee hearing, a HELP Committee hearing, and on the U.S. Senate Floor.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2336,Kennedy Leads Members of Congress in Letter Urging Trump Administration Reverse Termination of Burma TPS,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Kennedy Joined by 11 House Democratic Colleagues in Letter Demanding Trump Change Course on Revoking Temporary Protected Status for Burma

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) led fellow Members of Congress in sending a letter to the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State urging the Trump administration to reverse its recent decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma.

In the letter, Kennedy outlines the dire and worsening humanitarian conditions in Burma, where the military junta continues to commit widespread abuses, block humanitarian aid, and destabilize communities through violence, forced displacement, and political oppression. The administration’s decision threatens more than 4,000 Burmese nationals living legally in the United States – people who contribute to local economies, raise families, and call communities like Western New York home.

Kennedy emphasized that ending TPS for Burma will have real, immediate consequences for families across the country.

“Western New Yorkers know firsthand that our community is stronger when we protect families who are fleeing violence and working hard to build their lives here,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Stripping TPS from our Burmese neighbors sends them back to danger and tears apart the communities they’ve strengthened, the workplaces they sustain, and the local economies they help grow. This heartless decision is wrong on the facts, wrong for our national interests, and deeply wrong for the innocent families who will be forced back into harm’s way.”

Kennedy’s letter details ongoing violence, civilian displacement, restrictions on humanitarian relief, and major natural disasters that have exacerbated instability in Burma. Citing reports from the United Nations and U.S. Department of State, the letter underscores that conditions remain far too dangerous for individuals to return safely, despite the administration’s claims that the situation may soon improve. For Western New York’s vibrant Burmese community, Kennedy noted that TPS has enabled families to fully participate in the local workforce, open small businesses, support their children in school, and contribute to the region’s long-term growth. Ending these protections would threaten not only their safety, but also the stability and economic vitality of neighborhoods across Buffalo and the greater area.

The letter calls on the administration to reverse its decision immediately and redesignate TPS for Burma in light of clear, ongoing humanitarian need.

Full text of the letter can be found below:

The Honorable Kristi Noem

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

2707 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, S.E.

Washington, D.C. 20528

The Honorable Marco Rubio

U.S. Department of State

2201 C Street NW

Washington, D.C. 20520

Secretary Noem and Secretary Rubio,

We write to express deep concern regarding this administration’s recent termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma. Currently, it is estimated that over 4,000 Burmese citizens reside in the U.S. with TPS, relying on this legal designation as a lifeline to support their families, contribute to the economy, and avoid return to a country plagued by civil unrest, violence, corruption, and instability. Accordingly, we urge the administration to immediately reverse its decision to end TPS for Burma and instead redesignate status for the thousands of Burmese nationals currently living and working in the U.S. lawfully.

As you know, in February 2021, a military junta in Burma seized power from a democratically elected government, thrusting the country into a civil war, political upheaval, and dire humanitarian conditions. Four years later, ethnic groups and pro-democracy coalitions continue to clash with the junta in efforts to fight back against military rule, and as such, the conditions in Burma continue to deteriorate. As recently as last month, a United Nations independent council that investigates crimes in Burma warned that “the frequency and severity of international crimes” continues to escalate. This includes abuses during military detention, attacks on hospitals, places of worship, and schools, and civilian starvation as a result of continued conflict. Additionally, a 2024 report by the U.S. Department of State concluded similar findings of abuses, including disappearances, unlawful killings, forced labor, and illegal recruitment of children, among others.

Further compounding an already devastating humanitarian crisis, earthquakes hit central Burma in March of this year, leaving roughly 200,000 people homeless. Following the natural disaster, military forces reportedly blocked humanitarian aid, threatened relief workers, and capitalized on the already delicate situation to conduct civilian airstrikes, leaving more than half of western Rakhine state families unable to meet basic needs. In addition to an estimated 21.5 million Burmese citizens in need of humanitarian assistance such as food, shelter, sanitation, and water, the United Nations projects that 3.5 million individuals are internally displaced.

Since 1990, the law has allowed foreign nationals from countries with severe civil unrest, violence, or natural disasters to remain in the country legally under TPS. Just weeks after the military takeover in February 2021, the federal government designated TPS for Burma and renewed the status for individuals in the U.S. twice thereafter due to worsening conditions in the country.[1] This lifesaving designation has allowed an estimated 4,000 Burmese individuals to remain in the U.S. safely and lawfully, protected from forced return to a country wrought with life-threatening conditions.

As evidenced above, this humanitarian crisis has not changed despite the administration’s cancellation of TPS, making Burma unsafe for return. As a result, 4,000 Burmese nationals living in the U.S. and covered by TPS will face deportation on January 26, 2026, back to a country that they likely will no longer recognize, and where they will have little to no quality of life. Further, this administration’s justification for TPS cancellation is purely based on speculation that conditions in the country may improve. In its recent decision, DHS cited the end of a state of emergency, a “timeline” for elections, and a “credible” ceasefire agreement as promises for Burma’s future, with a total disregard for the current devastating humanitarian conditions on the ground.[2]

In communities across the U.S., Burmese nationals with TPS contribute to their local economies, start businesses, and raise families, working towards a future they could not currently sustain safely in their home country. From Western New York to Indianapolis, regions with thriving Burmese communities risk being upended should this administration continue with its cancellation of TPS. Accordingly, we urge the Trump administration to immediately reverse the cancellation of TPS for Burmese nationals and redesignate status in line with continued conflict and humanitarian devastation in Burma.

Sincerely,

###

[1] Department of Homeland Security. Secretary Mayorkas Designates Burma for Temporary Protected Status. March 21, 2021. https://www.dhs.gov/archive/news/2021/03/12/secretary-mayorkas-designates-burma-temporary-protected-status",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2335,"Kennedy Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Transparency, Predictability, and Local Impact of FEMA Preparedness Grants",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Kennedy’s DHS Grants Accountability Act Would Ensure Funding Decisions Are Data-Driven

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26), a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, introduced the DHS Grants Accountability Act, legislation that would guarantee greater transparency, consistency, and data-driven decision-making within the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) homeland security preparedness grants programs. The bill directly addresses long-standing concerns raised by the Government Accountability Office and stakeholders about unpredictable timelines, opaque risk methodologies, and abrupt funding shifts that compromise local preparedness. By codifying clear award timelines and transparent methods, the DHS Grants Accountability Act strengthens the integrity of one of the federal government’s most critical homeland security programs nationwide.

“I am proud to lead legislation that makes commonsense, necessary reforms to restore fairness and predictability to FEMA’s suite of preparedness grant programs,” said Congressman Kennedy. “When local needs are placed at the forefront of these funding decisions, communities can focus on what matters most: keeping people safe. Western New York families and first responders deserve a system of federal support that is transparent, reliable, and rooted in real risk.”

“For decades, the federal government has distributed billions in homeland security grants to our communities to prevent terror attacks and respond to disasters,” said Committee on Homeland Security Ranking Member Bennie Thompson. “This legislation will clarify Congressional intent and ensure that FEMA awards grants based on need and in a timely and reliable manner. The DHS Grants Accountability Act helps keep our preparedness grants consistent and transparent, giving States and local partners the stability they need to keep our communities safe. I thank Congressman Kennedy for introducing this much-needed legislation and I look forward to working with him on passage.”

FEMA’s preparedness grants portfolio includes the State Homeland Security Program, the Urban Area Security Initiative, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, the Port Security Grant Program, and numerous public transportation security grant programs. These investments help state, local, nonprofit, and tribal partners prevent, protect against, and respond to evolving threats, including terrorism, cyberattacks, and natural disasters.

This year, cities and states were given just two weeks to develop and submit complex grant applications for this funding - far short of the typical 60-day window and insufficient for coordinating local priorities. FEMA also altered its funding parameters without advance notice, cutting millions for New York State compared to FY24. Sudden shifts like these jeopardize public safety planning, hamper long-term investments, and leave high-risk areas, like Western New York’s border crossings, transit systems, and major population centers, without the support they rely on.

The DHS Grants Accountability Act addresses these problems by:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-secures-4-9-million-for-louisiana-firefighters/,Cassidy Secures $4.9 Million for Louisiana Firefighters,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Funding AmountRecipientProject Description$793,931Caddo Parish Fire District #4This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$742,857North Sabine Fire Protection DistrictThis grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$714,285Coulee Croche Fire District #4This grant provides federal funding for vehicle acquisition.$434,782State Fire MarshalThis grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$390,000Livingston Fire Protection District 2This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$318,181Holiday Village Fire DepartmentThis grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$246,857Pointe Coupee Fire District #2This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$247,619Caddo Parish Fire District Number FiveThis grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$230,038Haughton (Town of)This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$204,857Caddo Fire District No. 1This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$175,238Rapides Parish Fire District 12This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$87,619Vidrine Community Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$74,838Bossier Parish Fire District #7This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$73,333Choctaw Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$57,142Rapides Parish Police JuryThis grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.$53,604NE Bossier Parish Fire District 5This grant provides federal funding for operations and safety.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-republicans-introduce-back-the-blue-act/,"Cassidy, Republicans Introduce Back the Blue Act",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and a group of Senate Republican colleagues introduced the Back the Blue Act to increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves. In October, Iberville Parish Deputy Charles Riley was killed, and Captain Brett Stassi Jr. was injured in a tragic shooting.

“Americans in Blue deserve our support. Let’s do everything we can to protect Louisiana’s law enforcement from violent criminals and targeted attacks,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Jim Banks (R-IN), Marsha Blackburn, (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Kennedy (R-LA), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), John Barrasso (R-WY), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Todd Young (R-IN), James Lankford (R-OK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) in introducing the legislation.

The Back the Blue Act:

Strengthens Laws to Protect Police Officers.

Creates a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years.

Creates a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can be commenced absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate.

Creates a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense.

Creates a Specific Aggravating Factor for Federal Death Penalty Prosecutions

Clarifies that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty.

Limits Federal Habeas Relief for Murders of Law Enforcement Officers

Imposes time limits and substantive limits on federal courts’ review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases.

Limits Recovery of Certain Damages and Fees for Individuals Engaged in Felonies

Limits the type of civil damages and attorney’s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence.

Expands Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights for Law Enforcement Officers

Allows law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited.

This legislation is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2333,Kennedy Warns: Trump’s Cruel Loan Cuts Will Cause Healthcare Workforce to Flatline,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"In Speech Before Congress and in Letter to Trump Administration, Kennedy Condemns New Loan Rules That Will Deepen Workforce Shortage

Kennedy, an Occupational Therapist, Demands Repeal of Misguided Rule That Will Further Weaken our Healthcare System

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) led 69 of his colleagues in a letter to the Trump Administration demanding the reversal of its dangerous decision to impose strict federal loan limits on certain advanced degree programs. Under the new Department of Education policy, certain advanced degree programs including those in high-demand healthcare fields such as nursing, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, speech-language pathology, social work, public health, and others, are not classified as “professional programs,” meaning students pursuing these degrees will only be able to borrow half as much as their counterparts in unaffected fields.

Kennedy warned that these new restrictions will severely hinder the ability of prospective healthcare professionals to finance their education and enter the field, further destabilizing a healthcare system already in crisis. These loan limits will worsen staff shortages, restrict access to higher education, and further strain a healthcare system already at its breaking point. Kennedy also underscored these concerns in remarks on the House floor, citing deepening staff shortages, clinic closures, and communities increasingly being left without access to timely care.

Kennedy Speaks on the House Floor

“When I went to grad school to become an OT, I had to take out loans. I remember filling out those forms, hoping I’d have enough to cover tuition, books, and rent,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I remember the weight of those payments followed me for years. I took on that debt because I wanted to build a better future for my family, and because I wanted to help people. This administration wants to force aspiring healthcare professionals to mortgage their futures before they treat their first patient. Worse, this move will deter them from answering their calling, taking an axe to the very system that trains them. As the only occupational therapist in Congress, I will not sit idly by while Trump and Congressional Republicans sabotage the very workforce that keeps this nation alive.”

In their letter, Kennedy and his colleagues detailed ongoing healthcare workforce shortages, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating that the nation will need to fill nearly 195,000 nursing positions every year through 2033. This policy change is compounded by the vast damage caused by the passage of the Big, Ugly Bill that gutted $1 trillion from the nation’s healthcare system, threatening to push struggling clinics and hospitals over the cliff. Without action to prevent these new loan limits from taking effect, generations of students will lose the ability to enter the healthcare workforce.

The text of the Kennedy-led letter is below:

The Honorable Linda McMahon

Secretary of Education

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue SW

Washington, D.C. 20202

Dear Secretary McMahon,

We write with deep concern regarding recent policy changes that impose strict federal student loan limits on advanced healthcare degree programs. As a result of provisions in H.R. 1, the Department of Education’s (Department) most recent negotiated rulemaking introduces new distinctions between graduate programs in determining federal loan eligibility. These distinctions will directly undermine the ability of nurses, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, public health workers, mental health counselors, and other essential healthcare professionals to finance their education. Federal aid is one of the most effective tools for ensuring a stable and accessible healthcare workforce. This inequitable restructuring of graduate loan access places careers - in healthcare and a range of other professions - out of reach for middle-class students, deepens existing workforce shortages, and further strains a healthcare system already in crisis. We urge the Department to immediately reverse this harmful policy and ensure equal access to federal loans for all graduate degrees.

Historically, most graduate and professional students across disciplines have had access to the same federal borrowing limits. However, H.R. 1 made disastrous changes to these programs, creating disparities in how much certain graduate students can borrow for direct unsubsidized loans. Subsequently, on November 6, 2025, the Department moved forward with a proposal that compounds these disparities by failing to classify nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other graduate medical degrees as “professional programs.” As a result of the Department’s failure to classify these professions appropriately, students pursuing these degrees will be permitted to borrow only half as much in federal loans compared to their counterparts in other fields. This reduction, combined with the elimination of the Grad PLUS program, represents a dramatic and destabilizing shift in how individuals pursue necessary advanced training for healthcare professions.

In practice, this policy undermines the future and stability of our healthcare system at a time of unprecedented workforce need. Across hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, the warning signs are clear. Nursing units are short-staffed, mental health providers are overwhelmed, and rehabilitation clinics cannot hire therapists fast enough to meet soaring patient needs. Federal labor projections paint a stark picture of what these shortages look like on the ground. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the U.S. will need to fill roughly 194,500 nursing positions every year through 2033, and demand for social workers and mental health counselors is expected to require nearly 123,000 new professionals annually. In rehabilitation fields, where patients rely on consistent access to physical and occupational therapy, demand for providers is projected to grow at rates nearly triple the national average, leaving thousands of unfilled positions each year.

These are not abstract numbers; they represent real patients waiting longer for care, communities losing vital services, and exhausted providers being stretched beyond capacity. By restricting access to federal loans, the Department is narrowing the pathway into these critical healthcare professions at the very moment that the need is surging, placing these degree programs out of reach for millions of prospective students. The result will be immediately felt in clinics already contending with staffing shortages and, over time, in teaching hospitals and training programs where shrinking graduate cohorts will weaken the pipeline of future practitioners. This policy only worsens the workforce crisis that is already compromising care and threatens to destabilize the nation’s entire healthcare infrastructure for generations to come.

Aside from the workforce shortage this policy will create, it puts up yet another barrier to the middle class in the midst of our nation’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis. For tens of thousands of students, federal aid is the only viable pathway to afford the advanced training required for these medical professions, as well as those outside healthcare, including education, accounting, and architecture. By arbitrarily capping support, the Department is effectively pulling up the ladder of opportunity, forcing aspiring healthcare professionals to take on predatory private debt or abandon their calling altogether. This decision is the height of hypocrisy by an administration that claims to support the middle class, while actively penalizing working-class students seeking to serve their communities.

In the richest country in the world, the Department’s proposal saddles an already overburdened health workforce with tremendous financial and staffing challenges. At a critical inflection point in the future of our nation’s healthcare, the administration must be advancing policies that address pressing workforce shortages and the cost of delivering care rather than exacerbating them. Given the need to correct this issue, we are actively considering policy options to ensure equal treatment of federal loans for graduate degrees. We urge you to reverse course immediately to prevent irreversible damage to critical medical workforces.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-legislation-to-encourage-unemployed-workers-to-reenter-the-workforce/,Cassidy Introduces Legislation to Encourage Unemployed Workers to Reenter the Workforce,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Expedited Access to Reemployment Learning Yields (EARLY) Benefits for Workers Act, which would allow unemployed workers faster access to reemployment services so they can quickly reenter the workforce.

“By getting unemployed Americans the tools they need to quickly return to the workforce, we’re fueling the economy, filling job openings, and supporting businesses,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Background

Employers across many industries are facing serious labor shortages, and too many unemployed Americans are struggling to find suitable work. As artificial intelligence and other technologies change our economy, workers will face greater dislocation. Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) benefits – such as resume assistance, job search planning, and career workshops – are designed to help people get back to work faster. But under current law, states cannot offer RESEA services until after an unemployment insurance (UI) claim is approved. It typically takes weeks to process an initial unemployment claim after workers lose their jobs, meaning most workers do not receive help until they have already been out of work for some time. Today, more than one in three Americans exhaust their UI benefits before finding a new job, and research indicates that the longer a person is unemployed, the more difficult it becomes to reenter the workforce.

The EARLY Benefits for Workers Act would address these issues by allowing states to provide basic reemployment services as soon as a worker applies for unemployment benefits. This will help workers find jobs faster, shortening their unemployment and saving taxpayer dollars.

Casidy was joined by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) in introducing the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-delivers-floor-speech-calling-to-make-health-care-affordable-empower-patients/,"Cassidy Delivers Floor Speech Calling to Make Health Care Affordable, Empower Patients",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) today delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor calling on Congress to address rising health care costs for families. Specifically, Cassidy criticized the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which funnel billions of taxpayer dollars to giant insurance companies with no incentive to lower the cost of health premiums. In his speech, Cassidy outlined his plan to send this money directly to patients, rather than insurance companies, so they can better afford their care and out-of-pocket expenses. President Trump has expressed support for this concept.

“Instead of 100% of this money going to insurance companies, who take 20% of it … we give 100%, almost, to the patient, to our fellow American, in an account that she controls and use as she wishes.” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Let’s give power to the patient, not profit to the insurance company. Let’s make health care affordable again!” said Dr. Cassidy.

Background

In November, Senator Cassidy urged Congress to address rising health care costs at a Senate Finance Committee hearing.

Cassidy has also continuously called for Congress to work together on solutions to lower the cost of health insurance for families in speeches on the Senate floor.

Click here to watch Cassidy’s full speech.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-leads-bill-to-streamline-veterans-benefits/,Cassidy Leads Bill to Streamline Veterans’ Benefits,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Veterans Appeals Modernization Act 2.0 to eliminate red tape in the veterans’ benefits appeals process and add additional oversight and accountability.

“Veterans served our country without hesitation,” said Dr. Cassidy. “They deserve to receive their benefits just as quickly.”

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in introducing the legislation.

Background

While the Appeals Modernization Act of 2017 (AMA) system was a substantial improvement over the legacy system, the changes below would continue to build on those successes:

Eliminate arbitrary “donut holes” or blackout periods that prevent veterans from submitting evidence during certain periods of the appeals process.

Make it easier for veterans to efficiently change review lanes without penalization.

Require VA to regularly publish online data about the outcome of AMA disputes, including Board appeals.

Make electronic notice of Board decisions the default option and require the Board to include greater detail and explanation in its decisions.

Ensure better caseflow management by requiring the Secretary of VA to complete a review of the electronic systems used to process appeals.

Give veterans the right to seek Board reconsideration by a different panel

Conduct a third-party review of the veterans appeals process.

Require the comptroller general to conduct a review of VA’s implementation of precedent setting decisions.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-applauds-300-million-investment-to-expand-franklin-shipyard/,Cassidy Applauds $300 Million Investment to Expand Franklin Shipyard,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded Saronic Technologies, Inc. for expanding operations in St. Mary Parish to increase production capacity at its autonomous surface vessels shipyard. The $300 million investment will strengthen Louisiana’s advanced manufacturing base and generate 3,200 jobs.

“Companies invest in Louisiana because we have the workforce and infrastructure to run a successful business,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Saronic knows that. Their expansion means real jobs, real innovation, and a stronger economy in South Louisiana.”

The company is expected to create 1,500 direct new jobs with an average annual salary of $87,936 at full employment, which is 46% above the average St. Mary Parish wage. When Saronic acquired the shipyard in April, it retained the existing workforce of 35 employees and has since grown to more than 100. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 1,770 indirect new jobs, for a total of 3,270 potential new job opportunities in the Bayou Region.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-trump-signs-cassidys-legislation-to-simplify-irs-notices-into-law/,President Trump Signs Cassidy’s Legislation to Simplify IRS Notices into Law,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released the following statement after President Trump signed his Internal Revenue Service Math and Taxpayer Health (IRS MATH) Act into law. The legislation will improve math and clerical error notices, an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) authority used to quickly adjust taxpayers’ returns.

“President Trump and I want Americans who play by the rules to keep their hard-earned income. An honest mistake on a tax return should be met with clear guidance from the IRS, not confusion. I appreciate President Trump’s partnership in making this a priority,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Background

In October, Cassidy applauded the U.S. Senate passage of his IRS Math Act.

The Internal Revenue Code allows the IRS to make “math error” corrections — expedited adjustments to tax returns that contain simple math or clerical errors. Unlike other adjustments, which are made after a notice period and are challengeable in U.S. Tax Court, math and clerical adjustments are made automatically and require taxpayers to initiate responses to reverse them within 60 days. If the taxpayer does not contest the notice within the 60 days, the taxpayer forfeits their right to challenge, and the IRS can move forward with its normal collections process.

Each year, millions of Americans receive math error notices reducing their tax refunds but find the notices “vague and confusing” because they do not explain what error the IRS has corrected or that taxpayers have only 60 days to challenge the IRS’s position. The notices often list several potential errors that may have been made rather than specifying the exact issue, and they do not properly notify taxpayers of ways to contest the IRS adjustment, resulting in compounding errors on future tax returns and further risks to taxpayers. The legislation aims to improve the unworkable system to help hardworking taxpayers, who often cannot afford expensive tax advisors to help them navigate the complicated correspondence process. The legislation follows the 2024 tax filing deadline and vastly improved taxpayer services this filing season, but the lawmakers are urging the IRS to build on those improvements by fixing long-standing issues with math error notices.

The IRS MATH Act addresses this problem for taxpayers by directing the IRS to improve notices of math or clerical errors, requiring that notices:

Identify the line item IRS is changing;

Explain the reason for the change, and;

Clearly list the taxpayer’s required response date.

In addition, the bill requires:

the IRS to notify the taxpayer of abatement determinations when taxpayers disagree with the IRS.

the U.S. Treasury Secretary to provide additional procedures for requesting an abatement of a math or clerical error adjustment, including by telephone or in person.

Creation of a pilot program coordinated by the IRS and National Taxpayer Advocate to determine the benefit of sending math or clerical error notices by certified or registered mail.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-applauds-president-trump-signing-his-support-act-into-law/,Cassidy Applauds President Trump Signing His SUPPORT Act Into Law,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, applauded President Trump signing his SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act into law. The law bolsters prevention, treatment, and recovery services for Americans with substance use disorders and mental illness.

“The opioid and mental health crisis is devastating families across the nation. Thousands of Americans die each month from an overdose,” said Dr. Cassidy. “President Trump and I are committed to tackling this crisis head-on. I’m proud to work with him to enact the SUPPORT Act to equip communities with vital resources to save lives.”

The SUPPORT Act originally passed Congress and was signed into law by President Trump in 2018. The legislation expired on September 30, 2023.

Since arriving to Congress, Cassidy has worked with President Trump on multiple efforts to combat the opioid crisis and strengthen mental health resources for families and children. In July, President Trump signed into law Cassidy’s HALT Fentanyl Act, which gives law enforcement another tool to combat drug cartels by permanently scheduling fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.

The SUPPORT Act Reauthorization of 2025:

Renews and strengthens important programs for prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Helps individuals in recovery reenter the workforce to get back on their feet.

Reauthorizes specialized programs that treat moms and babies with alcohol and other substance use disorders.

Reauthorizes comprehensive opioid recovery centers that provide a full spectrum of support services for individuals with substance use disorders.

Helps more addiction medicine providers enter the workforce, increasing capacity of recovery programs.

Ensures that 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Lifeline is protected from cybersecurity threats.

Trains first responders to administer life-saving opioid overdose reversal medications.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-budd-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-ban-terrorist-sympathizers-from-the-united-states/,"Cassidy, Budd, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Ban Terrorist Sympathizers from the United States",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Ted Budd (R-NC), and a group of Republican colleagues introduced the Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act to close loopholes in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and expand the existing INA provision that bans officers, officials, representatives, or spokesmen of the Palestine Liberation Organization to additionally include any member or anyone who publicly endorses the terrorist activities of Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Palestine Islamic Jihad, or any successor or affiliate group, from receiving a visa or admission into the United States.

“Freedom of speech does not protect terrorism and calls to terror,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re strengthening the law so terrorists and their supporters can go hate us somewhere else.”

“Ever since the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7, we have seen a dramatic rise in pro-Hamas rhetoric across our country, including from international students here on visas. This needs to stop. Those seeking to come to the U.S., whether for school, work, or otherwise, and who publicly endorse Foreign Terrorist Organizations, must face consequences for their actions. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act will close ambiguous loopholes in our immigration law by prohibiting them from entering our borders,” said Senator Budd.

Cassidy and Budd were joined by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Cornyn (R-TX), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Rick Scott (R-FL) in introducing the legislation.

“We have a fundamental responsibility to protect American citizens and our allies from those who would spread hatred and violence on our soil. This legislation simply codifies what should be common sense: if you’re a member of or spokesperson for Hamas, Hezbollah, or other terrorist organizations—or if you publicly endorse their barbaric acts—you have no right to enter or remain in the United States. We saw the disgusting displays on college campuses after October 7th, and this bill ensures we have the statutory tools to prevent terrorist sympathizers from exploiting our visa system,” said Senator Lummis.

“The October 7 terrorist attacks were a dark day for the world. Since those attacks, we have witnessed a disturbing rise in pro-Hamas support among foreign visa holders inside the United States. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act would ensure that an alien who backs Hamas, Hezbollah, ISIS, or any other group supporting the Palestine Liberation Organization is deemed inadmissible to the United States,” said Senator Blackburn.

“Our nation has learned the hard lesson that when terrorists come into our country, they harm Americans. I’m proud to join Senator Budd and our colleagues in this commonsense effort to further prevent terrorist sympathizers and associates from coming to the U.S., threatening our national security, and spreading their anti-American propaganda and hatred,” said Senator McCormick.

“Israel is our strongest ally in the Middle East and those who sympathize with terrorists like Hamas and Hezbollah have absolutely no place in our country. I’m proud to join Senator Budd and our colleagues in introducing this bill to keep our nation safe and send a strong signal across the globe that America will not tolerate any form of violent antisemitism,” said Senator Daines.

“In the aftermath of Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israel two years ago, we’ve seen an alarming wave of antisemitic, pro-terrorist advocacy by foreign visa holders present in the U.S. who seek to do Americans harm. By broadening the Immigration and Nationality Act, this commonsense legislation would ensure those who support or sympathize with terrorist groups and their affiliates are inadmissible to the United States, and I’m proud to support it,” said Senator Cornyn.

“Terrorist organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, ISIS, and Al-Qaeda seek to murder Americans. Their terrorist members, spokesmen, and supporters should not be allowed into our country. This bill will keep Americans safe,” said Senator Ricketts.

“America must never be a safe haven for anyone who supports terrorist organizations or celebrates violence against our ally, Israel. After the horrific terrorist attacks on October 7, we saw individuals in this country openly praising Hamas and other foreign terrorist groups. That is unacceptable. This bill makes crystal clear in federal law that any individual in the U.S. on a visa who openly support Hamas, Hezbollah, ISIS, or any other terrorist organization, is not welcome in the United States. We are closing dangerous loopholes and standing firmly with Israel, with the Jewish community, and with America’s commitment to fight terrorism at every turn,” said Senator Scott.

U.S. Representative August Pfluger (R-TX-11) previously introduced the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“There is no place in America for foreign adversaries or terrorist sympathizers. As our nation faces a disturbing rise in antisemitic and illegal alien terror attacks, along with increasing pro-Hamas sentiment on our college campuses, we must take action to ensure our borders are secure from those wishing harm against Americans. The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act would take a critical step in that effort,” said Representative Pfluger.

Background

Following the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, there has been a wave of anti-Israel, antisemitic, and pro-Hamas advocacy by foreign visa holders present in the United States, as well as visa applicants seeking to enter the country.The Trump administration has revoked the visas of individuals who engaged in pro-Hamas advocacy and tightened the vetting process to detect such advocacy conducted by visa applicants.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/local-spotlight-cassidy-highlights-baton-rouge-business-owner-katie-jenkins-for-employing-people-with-disabilities/,LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: Cassidy Highlights Baton Rouge Business Owner Katie Jenkins for Employing People with Disabilities,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), for his monthly Local Spotlight, highlighted Katie Jenkins, owner of STIR Coffee in Baton Rouge, who primarily employs Louisianans with cognitive disabilities. By providing good jobs for people who may otherwise face barriers to employment, Katie is improving life for those she employs and setting a positive example for businesses across the country. Each month, Cassidy highlights a local story that truly reflects Louisiana values of humility, respect, and resiliency.

Read his full November 2025 Local Spotlight below:

A big shoutout to Katie Jenkins, owner of STIR Coffee in Baton Rouge—a café that primarily employs people with disabilities.

For someone with cognitive differences, whether from birth or trauma, finding a job can be hard.

And many want to work but are never given a chance.

Perhaps the best thing about STIR Coffee is the brewing sense of hope so many of their employees feel—expanding their expertise, sharpening their skills, and staying involved in a community despite the challenges they face.

Every American—including those with disabilities—deserves the freedom to work and reach their fullest potential.

Katie, a real shoutout, applauding you for starting a business that improves the life of people in our community in such a heartwarming way.

You set out to make a difference, and drip by drip—and, in all seriousness—person by person, you are succeeding!

Keep making Louisiana and our world a better place!

Background

In October, Cassidy recognized St. Bernard Parish firefighter, Andrew Nixon, for saving a woman’s life while off-duty seconds before her car was engulfed in flames following a collision with an 18-wheeler. Andrew was on his way home from a wedding with his fiancée when he pulled the young woman from her vehicle and carried her to safety. The 23-year-old firefighter reflects on the experience as a full-circle moment—drawing strength from the memory of his niece, Everleigh, whose tragic passing continues to inspire his commitment to protect others.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-lankford-introduce-bill-to-protect-medical-residents-from-coercive-abortion-training-practices/,"Cassidy, Lankford Introduce Bill to Protect Medical Residents from Coercive Abortion Training Practices",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and James Lankford (R-OK) introduced the Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Actto ensure medical students and residents are never pressured or coerced into abortion training that violates their moral or religious beliefs. The legislation establishes clear federal protections, so residents are not forced to choose between their consciences and their careers.

“Those training to save lives should be exempt from participating in that which goes against her or his conscience,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Allow students to choose a culture of life.”

“Medical residents should never be pressured to violate their beliefs in order to finish their training or advance in their careers,” said Senator Lankford. “Many went into medicine to protect life, not take it. No one should have to choose between their conscience and their future in medicine. Our bill makes that clear and ensures medical students and residents can follow their convictions as they care for their patients.”

Cassidy and Lankford were joined by U.S. Representative Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC-03), and U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Banks (R-IN), Steve Daines (R-MT), Katie Britt (R-AL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Todd Young (R-IN) in introducing the legislation.

“Medical residents should not be compelled to participate in abortion training if it violates their conscience,” said Representative Murphy. “Opting out of such training enables potential retaliation by faculty who have enormous power over residents and their future success. Pursuing an elective abortion is not the same as receiving lifesaving care, such as for miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies, and training should reflect that. This issue is about restoring a non-ideological educational environment where individuals do not fear expressing moral or religious objections.”

The legislation is supported by The American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Americans Defending Freedom, Americans United for Life, National Right to Life Committee, Center for Urban Renewal and Education, CatholicVote, Vitae Foundation, Human Coalition, March for Life Action, Heartbeat International, Students for Life Action, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee, The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Live Action, Heritage Action, Family Policy Alliance, Liberty Counsel, Family Research Council, and Liberty Counsel Action.

Background

Under current rules from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, residents are allowed to opt out of abortion training, but the opt-out system puts pressure on trainees to participate in procedures that violate their moral or religious beliefs. Residents often fear that opting out could affect evaluations, recommendations, or future career opportunities.

The Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act replaces the opt-out system with an opt-in system. It ensures residents can choose whether to participate in abortion training and protects them from discrimination or retaliation if they decline.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-backed-proposed-oil-and-gas-lease-sale-in-gulf-of-america-announced-by-trump-administration/,Cassidy-Backed Proposed Oil and Gas Lease Sale in Gulf of America Announced by Trump Administration,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauds the Trump Administration’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announcement of the Proposed Notice of Sale for the second offshore oil and gas lease sale. Cassidy played a key role in getting this sale authorized through President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts bill.

“I’m working with President Trump to boost American energy, lower costs, and create jobs,” said Dr. Cassidy. “That starts right here in Louisiana’s backyard—the Gulf of America.”

The proposed lease sale is scheduled to take place on March 11, 2026. This sale is the second of thirty Gulf of America oil and gas lease sales required by the Working Families Tax Cuts bill. By committing to a predictable sale schedule, the department is delivering on President Trump’s promise to expand American energy production and strengthen U.S. energy dominance.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-legislation-to-protect-americans-from-foreign-robots/,Cassidy Introduces Legislation to Protect Americans from Foreign Robots,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Humanoid Robots Oversight and Blocking of Obtainment from Totalitarians (Humanoid ROBOT) Actto ensure the United States remains the leader in robotics and protect American systems from adversarial nations accessing them through humanoid robot technologies. The bill would prevent federal agencies and their contractors from using humanoid robots developed by China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea, while establishing oversight of foreign investment in U.S. humanoid robotics.

“Americans win when we lead in technology,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re keeping that lead by blocking countries like China from putting their robots in our workplaces and homes.”

Humanoid robots are expected to become increasingly integral for industrial, household, and defense applications. Although the U.S. currently leads in this field, hostile nations are investing in the technology, posing risks to American data, national security, and economic strength.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) in introducing the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-secures-nearly-3-million-for-jefferson-parish-bus-stop-improvements/,Cassidy Secures Nearly $3 Million for Jefferson Parish Bus Stop Improvements,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Jefferson Transit will receive $2,975,000.00 to upgrade bus stops throughout its service area to ensure compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Cassidy secured this funding through a combination of Congressionally Directed Spending and Cassidy’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act through the Federal Transit Administration.

“Jefferson Parish families rely on these routes to get to work, school, the grocery store, appointments, and more,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This project ensures the stops along the way are safer and more accessible.”

The project will modernize bus stop locations parish-wide to improve accessibility and enhance rider experience.

Since taking office, Cassidy has been one of the most effective U.S. Senators at directing federal dollars home to Louisiana, despite not serving on the Appropriations Committee. In FY2024, Roll Call reported Cassidy was one of the top 20 senators in total funding secured for his state—and one of only five in that group who does not sit on the committee. That year, he secured a record $1.3 billion for Louisiana, the highest of any member of the state’s congressional delegation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-updates-bill-to-help-veterans-military-spouses-rejoin-the-workforce/,"Cassidy Updates Bill to Help Veterans, Military Spouses Rejoin the Workforce",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced an updated version of the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Act that was reintroduced earlier this year to help veterans and military spouses find high-paying jobs. The bill enables business owners to invest in staffing, training, wages, and benefits to expand employment opportunities for workers. The updated legislation extends eligibility to military spouses, includes a 5-year extension of the credit, and indexes the credit to inflation. Without Congressional action, WOTC will expire at the end of this year.

“Veterans and military spouses deserve every opportunity to build stable, rewarding careers,” said Dr. Cassidy. “By reducing the burden on employers who hire them and other individuals who have fallen through the cracks, we strengthen our economy and give people the chance they need.”

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Jim Justice (R-WV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Peter Welch (D-VT).

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-11) and Steven Horsford (D-NV-04).

“Some of the most productive and reliable workers happen to be married to members of the military, but they often struggle with employment because of frequent relocation,” said Senator Boozman. “I am pleased to join the bipartisan effort to update the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and extend eligibility to include military spouses. Doing so will only strengthen this initiative, support families serving our country and benefit our economy.”

“For hardworking Americans who’ve faced real obstacles entering the workforce and pursuing their American Dream, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit has long been a vital lifeline,” said Senator Marshall. “By extending and modernizing WOTC – and adding military spouses alongside the long-term unemployed, those transitioning off assistance, and our veterans – we’re giving more people a fair chance at meaningful work and the independence that comes with it. I’m proud to join Senator Cassidy in introducing this legislation.”

“Expanding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit offers support to employers in Kansas and across the country to fill critical workforce needs while providing opportunities for more Americans to find steady, meaningful jobs,” said Senator Moran. “This commonsense legislation will provide those who face barriers to employment, including veterans, military spouses and individuals with disabilities, the opportunity to provide for themselves and their families while working in their local communities.”

“Our veterans and military families have always stepped up for our country and we absolutely owe it to them to ensure they have the opportunity to succeed when they return home. Updating and extending the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) helps our businesses and hard-working Americans. It’s common sense, pro-worker, and it strengthens our communities in West Virginia and across our nation,” said Senator Justice.

“The best anti-poverty program is a good job. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) helps both employers and workers, as individuals transition back into the workforce. I remain dedicated to helping disadvantaged Americans return to work by advancing legislation that strengthens this proven tool. WOTC is a bipartisan, commonsense approach that every Member of Congress should champion,” said Representative Smucker.

The WOTC provides a federal tax credit to employers who invest in American workers who have consistently faced barriers to employment, including eligible veterans, SNAP recipients, individuals with disabilities, and long-term unemployed individuals. Employers incur higher recruitment and training costs to reach WOTC-eligible populations and support their successful transition back into employment. WOTC has not been updated since its enactment twenty-seven years ago, and its value has been eroded significantly due to inflation. The National Employment Opportunity Network reports that the WOTC has saved the federal government an estimated $202 billion over ten years. According to EY, the legislation is estimated to directly support 350,000 new jobs, generating $3.7 billion in labor income and contributing $5.6 billion to GDP.

The Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act would:

Update the WOTC, which has not been changed since its enactment twenty-seven years ago, and encourage longer-service employment.

Increase the current credit percentage from 40% to 50% of qualified wages.

Incentivize employee retention by expanding the credit for those who work 400 or more hours.

Eliminate the arbitrary age cap at which SNAP recipients are eligible for WOTC. This change will provide an incentive to hire older workers and better align the credit with previously adopted work reforms.

Extend the credit for 5 years.

Expand eligibility to military spouses.

Index the credit to inflation.

“The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a critical part of our mission… WOTC not only opens doors to opportunity for thousands of Louisianans each year but also supports businesses in finding and retaining skilled, motivated workers. With the WOTC program set to expire at the end of this year, we respectfully urge your support for its extension and continued authorization.” – Louisiana Works

“For more than two decades, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit has been one of the federal government’s most effective tools for improving veteran employment outcomes. By strengthening WOTC, extending it through 2030, and finally adding military spouses as a new target group, this legislation aligns federal hiring incentives with the lived realities of today’s military families. These reforms will open doors, strengthen economic opportunity, and support the financial stability and readiness of the all-volunteer force.” –Lt. General Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret.), President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America

“WOTC tax credits are a great benefit to job seekers finding meaningful employment opportunities. It’s a WIN/WIN for both the job seeker and the employer. Not continuing this program would be a huge setback to workforce ecosystem.” – Brandon Smith, Flexicrew Tech

“I am writing on behalf of our restaurants in the Louisiana Market. The WOTC credit is crucial to the financial success of our business in the state of Louisiana that the WOTC tax credits are extended. These are one of the main reasons we are still able to maintain profitability and keep those 10 restaurants open. We employee over 500 people with a weekly payroll of over $100,000.” — Christopher Ballard, Human Resource Director, Big River Restaurants

“The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a lifeline for Louisiana employers and workers alike. It helps small businesses fill critical jobs, invest in training, and bring overlooked workers — including veterans and those rebuilding after unemployment — back into the workforce. Senator Cassidy’s legislation to extend and strengthen WOTC will keep these opportunities growing and our communities thriving.”— Mark Leyoub, Manager, Complete Staffing LLC, Lake Charles, LA

“WOTC helps Louisiana employers fill open jobs, reduces hiring costs, and supports workforce stability by encouraging employers to bring in workers who might otherwise be overlooked. For many Louisiana small businesses, WOTC provides a financial bridge to invest in training and retention for new hires, helping individuals move from public assistance to employment and empowering families to achieve long-term financial independence.” – Quinn Jones, CFO & Owner, Cabildo, New Orleans

“With six Buffalo Wild Wing locations in Louisiana, the WOTC provides much needed assistance on rising payroll costs in an already thin margin business. This credit assists with the viability of our entities and allows us to continue operations, employ other individuals throughout our restaurants and support the local community via fundraising and sponsorship.” – Matt Soderman, Chief Financial Officer, Patton Wings, Inc.

“The updated ‘Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act’ not only strengthens WOTC — it will drive economic activity in communities across the country, assist individuals such as veterans, the long-term unemployed, and SNAP and TANF recipients get off the sidelines and into good-paying jobs, and reduce the cost of federal and state social assistance programs. This program has been valuable for our company and growth opportunities, and we look forward to working in a bipartisan manner to enact it.” – Scott Adams, Corporate Tax Director, Turner Industries Group, Baton Rouge LA

“This legislation includes ‘the most significant improvements to the program since its inception, will drive economic activity in communities across the country, and encourage employers to hire spouses of active-duty members, many of whom have sacrificed their careers in service of our country.” – Charles Daroca, CFO, Restaurant Antoine, New Orleans, LA",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/38686-2/,"Cassidy Calls to Make Health Care Affordable, Send Money to Patients at Finance Hearing",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) called on Congress to work together to address rising health care costs by sending money directly to Americans at a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing. Cassidy also criticized the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which funnel billions of taxpayer dollars to giant insurance companies with no incentive to lower the cost of health premiums. Cassidy’s proposal would redirect that money to patients to help pay for care and out-of-pocket expenses. President Trump has spoken supportively of Cassidy’s concept.

“Under the status quo, the insurance companies get the money that subsidizes premiums, the insurance company makes the decision, and it doesn’t lower health care costs. In fact, it actually contributes to higher costs, and it fuels fraud and unauthorized enrollment.” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Under what we’re proposing, is that 100% goes to a patient-driven account in which she can use for a physician, or dentist, or drugs,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy has continuously called for Congress to work together on real solutions to lower health insurance costs for families.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-louisiana-first-in-the-nation-to-receive-approval-for-1-4-billion-in-broadband-funding-from-his-infrastructure-bill/,Cassidy Announces Louisiana First in the Nation to Receive Approval for $1.4 Billion in Broadband Funding from His Infrastructure Bill,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced that Louisiana has become the first state in the nation to receive full federal approval of its plan to deploy $1,355,554,552.94 billion in broadband internet funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“I was proud to negotiate the infrastructure bill to secure this $1.36 BILLION in funding for Louisiana. Access to high-speed internet is essential for every small business owner, student, and worker. I am grateful to President Trump for his work to get it moving,” said Dr. Cassidy.

While negotiating the infrastructure bill, Cassidy pushed for a fair broadband formula that would benefit Louisiana’s needs and ensure the funding was directed to areas that lacked access to high-speed internet. The formula is based on the number of unserved and underserved broadband recipients in each state as determined by updated Broadband internet-coverage maps. A map of Louisiana residents accessing broadband internet before Cassidy’s bill was passed can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-recognized-for-work-to-advance-historic-tax-credit-in-new-orleans-2/,Cassidy Discusses Growing Louisiana’s Economy with LABI Members in Baton Rouge,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"BATON ROUGE – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) spoke at the Federal Outreach Tour for the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) this morning to discuss what he’s doing in Washington to help create jobs, support small businesses, and expand Louisiana’s economy.

“We want Louisiana to be a place where young people move to,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We already have the best food in the world, so that means making life affordable and creating high-paying jobs. Thanks to my work with President Trump and our local business owners, this is all happening.”

In July, Cassidy joined President Trump to support the Working Families Tax Cut Act. That legislation made permanent the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 and cut taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security. The legislation also provided tax deductions for oil and gas exploration and required no less than two lease sales every year for 15 years in the central and western areas of the Gulf of America.

Additionally in October, Cassidy headlined the American Council for Capital Formation Energy Summit in New Orleans, to discuss using Louisiana’s energy resources to boost U.S. manufacturing and help America remain energy independent. Cassidy has also introduced legislation to strengthen power grids, increase oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf, and protect permitting applications from frivolous lawsuits.

Attending the event were leaders across Louisiana’s business community. Cassidy was also welcomed by Mr. Will Green, President and CEO of LABI.

“The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry appreciates Senator Cassidy taking the time to brief our members on the key issues and priorities shaping the business and policy landscape of Washington, D.C.,” said President Green. “His insight into federal energy, infrastructure and economic competitiveness helps inform LABI’s efforts to advance initiatives that strengthen Louisiana’s economy and support job creation across all sectors.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-recognized-for-work-to-advance-historic-tax-credit-in-new-orleans/,Cassidy Recognized for Work to Advance Historic Tax Credit in New Orleans,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"METAIRIE – Today, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) visited the Shops at Jax Brewery in New Orleans to acknowledge a plaque unveiled in his honor thanking him for his support of the Historic Tax Credit (HTC). Thanks to that credit, they were able to renovate its building in 2024, supporting over 400 jobs.

“Across New Orleans, old landmarks are finding new life as condos, restaurants, and attractions thanks to the Historic Tax Credit,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s preserve our past as we build to a better future.”

Originally, Jax Brewery opened in 1890 to brew Jax Beer, and at its height was the largest brewery in the southern United States. The brewery closed in 1974 but was later reopened as a shopping center and is one of many buildings in New Orleans which have benefitted from the HTC, including the Hibernia Bank Building and locations across the Warehouse District.

The HTC was originally struck by the U.S. House of Representatives when they passed their version of the TCJA. However, thanks to Cassidy’s efforts, the credit was preserved in the Senate version of the TCJA and ultimately signed into law.

Cassidy was joined by several dignitaries, including from The Berger Company, which renovated the building. He was also welcomed by Mr. Albert Rex, Chair of the Historic Tax Credit Coalition.

“Senator Bill Cassidy has been an extraordinary champion of the federal historic tax credit,” said Mr. Rex. “Without his leadership in 2017, the credit would have been eliminated in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Thanks to his efforts, more than 6,700 historic rehabilitation projects have been approved nationwide since then, generating over $41 billion in investment. In Louisiana, alone, more than 600 projects have driven $1.7 billion in private investment. Senator Cassidy continues to work tirelessly to strengthen this critical program, encouraging reinvestment in our communities and preserving America’s historic heritage.”

Mr. Rex added, “this plaque will serve as a permanent reminder of Senator Cassidy’s work, not just in New Orleans where the credit has been so valuable, but across Louisiana and the nation. We look forward to continuing to work with Senator Cassidy to improve the credit so more buildings and communities can benefit from this important program.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-cassidy-cruz-resolution-condemning-abduction-demanding-release-of-pastor-ezra-jin/,"Senate Passes Cassidy, Cruz Resolution Condemning Abduction, Demanding Release of Pastor Ezra Jin",2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Ted Cruz (R-TX), released the following statements following U.S. Senate passage of their resolution condemning the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin and other leaders of the Zion Church and calling for their release.

“Faith isn’t a crime. We need to call out China for once more targeting people of faith,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Christians are fighting daily for their religious freedom against the Chinese Communist Party. Last month, the CCP carried out its largest nationwide crackdown in over four decades against a Christian house church in China. I’m grateful to Senator Coons and my colleagues for standing with me to demand Pastor Jin and his congregation’s release and to make clear that any government that fears faith is tyrannical,” said Senator Cruz.

Cassidy and Cruz were joined by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tim Scott (R-SC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jim Justice (R-WV), and Rick Scott (R-FL) in introducing the resolution.

Background

On October 10, 2025, the CCP conducted the largest coordinated, nationwide crackdown against a Christian urban house church in over four decades. At least 22 pastors and church members from Zion Church, one of China’s largest underground congregations, were arrested, including a prominent pastor and the founder of Zion Church, Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-higgins-kennedy-johnson-back-mcneese-university-request-for-naval-rotc-program/,"Cassidy, Higgins, Kennedy, Johnson Back McNeese University Request for Naval ROTC Program",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), U.S. Representative Clay Higgins (R-LA-03), Senator John Kennedy (R-LA), and Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA-04) expressed strong support for McNeese University’s request to establish a Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program.

“We extend our support for McNeese State University’s application to participate in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (Naval ROTC) program. Assigning a Naval ROTC program to McNeese would expand its academic offerings, enhance student life experiences, and align the University with becoming even more military-friendly for active service members, Veterans, and their families,” wrote the members.

“With its proximity to the Gulf of America, many of the nation’s top ports, and the burgeoning home of Navy autonomous vessels, McNeese would be an excellent location for future naval officers,” continued the members.

Read the full letter here or below:

Secretary Phelan,

We extend our support for McNeese State University’s application to participate in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (Naval ROTC) program. Assigning a Naval ROTC program to McNeese would expand its academic offerings, enhance student life experiences, and align the University with becoming even more military-friendly for active service members, Veterans, and their families.

With its proximity to the Gulf of America, many of the nation’s top ports, and the burgeoning home of Navy autonomous vessels, McNeese would be an excellent location for future naval officers. The University maintains highly successful Engineering and Computer Science programs and is experiencing an upward trend in enrollment due to its rigorous academic curriculum and value-based organizations. McNeese State University is already committed to these students and the Navy, identifying campus buildings and facilities for the program.

Louisiana has a storied history in supporting our nation’s defense and providing exemplary servicemen and women. McNeese is prepared to invest in this effort and capitalize on its students’ desire to serve our country. A Naval ROTC program would solidify this pathway.

We appreciate your attention to this matter and respectfully request your full and fair consideration of McNeese State University for a Naval ROTC program.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-releases-statement-on-vote-to-reopen-government/,Cassidy Releases Statement on Vote to Reopen Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released the following statement on Democrats voting to reopen the government after 42 days. This legislation will reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) retroactive to October 1st, fully fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), pay our federal workers and troops, and get our airport operations back to normal.

“After weeks of pain for working American families, Democrats finally agreed to end their unnecessary shutdown,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Now that the government is open, it’s time to work together to address the health care affordability crisis.”

Cassidy has continuously called for Democrats to end the shutdown and for Congress to work together on real solutions to lower health insurance costs for families.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-delivers-floor-speech-calling-on-democrats-to-work-together-to-lower-families-health-costs/,Cassidy Delivers Floor Speech Calling on Democrats to Work Together to Lower Families’ Health Costs,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor urging Democrats to work together on real solutions to make health care affordable for the American people. Specifically, he criticized the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which funnel billions of taxpayer dollars to giant insurance companies with no incentive to lower the cost of health premiums.

In the speech, Cassidy proposed an idea to give these credits directly to patients and empower them to manage their own health care decisions. President Trump has repeatedly called on Congress to end these subsidies that pad the profits of insurance companies, and instead give these resources directly to patients. The President has also spoken in support of Cassidy’s idea as an alternative.

“Obamacare has tried to make health care affordable by throwing more money at insurance companies. But, that doesn’t make health care cheaper; it makes health insurance more expensive for many,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead of paying insurance companies to manage more of our money, let’s trust Americans to manage those extra dollars and manage their own care — with a pre-funded Federal Flexible Spending Account.”

“Let’s fix health care, and let’s give the patient the power,” continued Dr. Cassidy.

Click here to watch Cassidy’s full speech.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-calls-for-action-to-make-health-care-affordable/,Cassidy Calls for Action to Make Health Care Affordable,2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered remarks on the U.S. Senate floor calling on Congress to work together to address the real issues driving up health care costs for the American people. Specifically, Cassidy criticized the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which funnel billions of taxpayer dollars to giant insurance companies with no incentive to lower the cost of health premiums.

President Trump has repeatedly called on Congress to end these subsidies that pad the profits of insurance companies, and instead give these resources directly to patients. Cassidy proposed an idea aligned with President Trump’s mission to empower patients to manage their own health care dollars and decisions.

“I absolutely agree with President Trump that we need to redirect the subsidies from insurance companies and give patients the power,” said Dr. Cassidy. “That’s exactly what my Pre-Funded Flexible Spending Accounts do. As a doctor, I want my patients to have the power.”

Click here to watch Cassidy’s full speech.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-continues-to-demand-end-to-shutdown-echoes-call-from-president-trump-to-make-health-care-affordable-for-families/,"Cassidy Continues to Demand End to Shutdown, Echoes Call from President Trump to Make Health Care Affordable for Families",2025-11-08,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), delivered remarks on the U.S. Senate floor calling on Democrats to end the shutdown and for Congress to work together on real solutions to make health care affordable for families. Specifically, Cassidy criticized the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which funnel billions of taxpayer dollars to giant insurance companies with no incentive to lower the cost of health premiums.

“The choice is before us. We can keep on paying insurance companies to hide the cost of the health care behind confusing bills and rising premiums… Or we can trust Americans with the tools to pay for the care directly, at fair prices, with total transparency,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Earlier today, President Trump called on Congress to end these subsidies that pad the profits of insurance companies, and instead give these resources directly to patients. Cassidy proposed an idea aligned with President Trump’s mission to empower patients to manage their own health care dollars and decisions.Click here and here to watch Cassidy’s full remarks.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-delivers-floor-speech-to-demand-end-to-shutdown-call-for-action-to-lower-health-costs-for-american-families/,"Cassidy Delivers Floor Speech to Demand End to Shutdown, Call for Action to Lower Health Costs for American Families",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), delivered remarks on the U.S. Senate floor calling on Democrats to end the shutdown and for Congress to work together on real solutions to lower health insurance costs for families. Specifically, he offered an alternative to the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, which funnel billions of taxpayer dollars to giant insurance companies with no incentive to lower the cost of health premiums.

Cassidy joined President Trump and Republican lawmakers calling for an end to the shutdown so Congress can work together on genuine reforms to fix the insurance market and lower health care costs.

“I want to present colleagues and fellow Americans with an idea that can move us forward out of this stalemate and solve the health care affordability problem.” said Dr. Cassidy.

Since arriving to Congress in 2009, Cassidy has led multiple efforts to deliver solutions that make health care affordable for families. In his speech, Cassidy proposed an idea to empower patients to manage their own health care and ensure resources go directly to families’ pockets, rather than insurance companies.

Click here to watch Cassidy’s full remarks.

See below for the remarks as prepared for delivery.

Mr. President,

The government has been shut down for 38 days now.

We are about to have another failed vote that will continue the shutdown into next week.

Families across the country are frustrated.

We need to open the government. If we need to talk about health care to do it, then let’s talk about health care.

We have an affordability crisis and health care is part of this

This is personal to me. I practiced in a public hospital for the uninsured for two decades. I saw middle income patients who could no longer afford insurance and now came to the hospital where I worked.

We have to put down our entrenched way of thinking and think creatively.

Washington and Obamacare have tried to make health care affordable by throwing more money at insurance companies.

The Enhanced Premium Tax Credit, or ePTC, is the latest example — a program that sends billions of taxpayer dollars straight to insurers in the hope that families will see smaller bills.

But let’s face it — that doesn’t make health care cheaper and makes it more expensive for millions.

We can do better than hiding the cost behind layers of bureaucracy.

Instead of paying insurance companies to manage our money, let’s trust Americans to manage their own care — with a pre-funded Federal Flexible Spending Account.

I want to present colleagues and fellow Americans with an idea that can move us forward out of this stalemate and solve the health care affordability problem.

Let me make clear: This is not me speaking for the Republican Conference or even as Chairman of HELP.

This is me speaking as a Senator and an American who wants to make health care more affordable for all Americans and by the way, end the shutdown.

Here’s the problem.

Under the ePTC, if your insurance premium goes up, Washington simply pays more of the bill.

Insurers get paid no matter what — and taxpayers get stuck with the tab.

There’s no incentive to bring costs down, no transparency about what care really costs, and no reward for families who try to save.

It’s like putting a band-aid on a broken bone.

We’re not fixing the system — we’re just hiding the fracture. .

The ePTC doesn’t empower patients. It enriches insurance companies. Insurance companies are important, we need them, but give me the choice of empowering you or enriching an insurance company, I pick you every time.

Now imagine a different kind of help — not another insurance subsidy, but a health account you, a fellow American controls. .

Every eligible American would receive a Federally Pre-Funded Flexible Spending Account.

It would work like a prepaid health account that you could use for real-world health expenses:

Dental care – from cleanings to crowns;

Vision care – eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses;

Orthodontics – braces for kids or adults;

Prescription drugs and medical supplies;

Routine medical services and preventive care.

It would not pay insurance premiums.

Instead, it would pay for the care that families actually use — the parts of health care most Americans struggle to afford day-to-day.

The Pre-Funded Flexible Spending Account does exactly that.

I will admit, this seems too complicated for some. It doesn’t have to be. This is a tried-and-true means of paying for health care. 72% of Americans working for the government are offered FSAs. 47% of Americans employed by business have access to FSAs. What I am proposing just gives the same option to people on the exchanges.

By the way, speaking to private industry, they can stand it up.

The Federal Government already offers FSAs on the Small business Obamacare exchanges. Senators and Representatives are on these Small business Obamacare exchanges and the Treasury Department has an office which directs a portion of the Representatives or the Senator’s paycheck into their FSA. My wife and I have one.

All this to say, the Federal Government can take the laws, tools, vendors and departments to make this happen.

By the way, if there is anyone who can push the bureaucracy to move faster, it is President Trump. His Operation Warp Speed developed a vaccine to protect Americans from Covid in 10 to 11 months when some said it would take 10 years and the most optimistic was 18 months. President Trump can make this happen.

Let me make clear the key difference between ePTCs and a Federally pre-funded FSA

With the Pre-Funded Flexible Spending Accounts, we’re taking money that the ePTC would send to an insurance company for profit, bureaucracy, administrative costs, oh, and by the way paying for some health care and, this is the difference, we send it to you, the consumer, the patient, an American citizen to directly pay for care without the markups and hidden costs of an insurance policy

And there’s more:

If the cash price for a service — say, a dental cleaning or a prescription refill — is lower than the insurance copay, YOU, the consumer can pay the cheaper cash price with their Pre-Funded Flexible Spending Accounts.

That means you save money, and so do the taxpayers funding the account.

This is the essence of giving power to patients: you pick the best deal, like in every other part of life.

The Pre-Funded Flexible Spending Accounts don’t treat people like dependents of a government program as the PTCs do.

It treats you like capable consumers who knows what’s best for your family.

You decide where to go for dental work.

You decide which pharmacy to use.

You decide whether to pay the negotiated rate or the cheaper cash price.

Instead of Washington paying insurance companies to manage your day-to-day care, you manage it — with fairness, transparency, and flexibility.

Some will ask: “Won’t this cost money?”

Yes, it will — about the same as the current ePTC. My democratic colleagues should like that. An individual is getting better value through the Federally funded FSA.

But the difference is where that money goes.

That means more value for every federal dollar.

And because it is in a family’s financial interest to shop wisely, total spending is likely to go down over time — without a single new mandate or price control.

This isn’t just fiscally responsible — it’s common sense.

So here’s the choice before us:

We can keep paying insurance companies to hide the cost of health care behind confusing bills and rising premiums in a system which actually raises the cost for some.

Or we can give Americans the tools — and the trust — to pay for their care directly, at fair prices, with total transparency.

If we can, it puts patients, not insurers.

It encourages competition.

It rewards smart choices.

And it makes health care truly affordable — not by inflating subsidies, but by unleashing the power of the consumer.

Let’s stop writing blank checks to bureaucracies and insurance companies.

Let’s invest in you.

I will say, to accomplish this, we have to first open the government!

We have to be willing to take a risk to solve the problem and not be afraid to do something different, to tackle complex problems.

We will not solve them by retreating to where we have always been.

I am a rock ribbed Republican but I will say, this is not a Republican solution, it is not a Democrat solution, it is an American solution.

Let’s open the government and then let’s fix health care the American way,

Thank you.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-bill-to-protect-flood-insurance-program/,Cassidy Introduces Bill to Protect Flood Insurance Program,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced legislation to protect the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) from lapsing during a government shutdown.

“Louisiana families have to be ready when floods hit,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re making sure they are covered, no matter what happens in Washington.”

This legislation ensures the National Flood Insurance Program never shuts down again by automatically extending the program if Congress misses a deadline. By creating a built-in safety-net year of authority, we protect homeowners, lenders, and coastal economies from needless disruption during lapses in authorization.

Background:

Most recently, to help alleviate the pressure of the Schumer Shutdown, Cassidy and U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) introduced the NFIP Extension Act to reauthorize the NFIP until November 21, 2025. He also introduced a bill to reauthorize the NFIP for the remainder of FY2026. It would protect all policies that have lapsed during the shutdown.

Last week, Cassidy delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor outlining the harm the Schumer Shutdown is causing half a million Louisianans enrolled in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

In August, Cassidy delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor commemorating the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and emphasizing the significant progress made since the storm to rebuild and strengthen our infrastructure.

In June, Cassidy delivered a speech highlighting the need to end the Biden-era Risk Rating 2.0 policy and make NFIP affordable again.

Last year, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee held a hearing on NFIP at the request of Cassidy. The hearing highlighted the urgent need for Congress to act and featured a Louisiana witness. Cassidy also participated in a roundtable hosted by GNO, Inc. and the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance to hear from community leaders and advocates on the issue.Cassidy traveled St. Bernard Parish in 2023 to talk with residents about their flood insurance premiums, recording the second episode of his Bill on the Hill series.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-kennedy-raise-concerns-on-foreign-imported-radioactive-shrimp-advocate-for-gulf-shrimp/,"Cassidy, Kennedy Raise Concerns on Foreign Imported Radioactive Shrimp, Advocate for Gulf Shrimp",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and John Kennedy (R-LA) raised safety concerns to the largest grocery stores in the United States for selling foreign imported shrimp that contains dangerous radioactive substances despite repeated safety recalls.

“Despite these numerous concerns, [you] continue to sell imported shrimp at your stores, rather than support domestic fisheries that offer a safer product while supporting small American businesses,” wrote the senators. “Ensuring that American families have access to safe, quality food is essential for us to advance President Trump’s agenda to Make America Healthy Again.”

Since August, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued eight safety alerts related to imported shrimp potentially contaminated with Cesium-137, a radioactive substance that can cause serious health harms like cancer. In response, Cassidy and Kennedy are calling on Americans to eat shrimp produced in states like Louisiana, as it poses significantly less health risks and benefits local businesses.

Under the Biden administration, FDA failed to adequately prioritize foreign food inspections, inspecting less than one percent of all foreign facilities in 2024. As Chairman of the HELP Committee, Cassidy is committed to working with President Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to improve food safety.

Read the full letter to Walmart here.

Read the full letter to Kroger here.

Read the full letter to Albertsons here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidyjoins-president-trump-for-breakfast-at-white-house/,CassidyJoins President Trump for Breakfast at White House,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, President Donald Trump invited U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Senate Republicans to the White House for breakfast to discuss the issues facing our country, including finding an end to the Schumer Shutdown.

“Another great visit with President Trump. I appreciate his continued friendship,” said Dr. Cassidy. “The President is focused on fulfilling an agenda to benefit our country. I share that focus.”

Recently, Cassidy joined President Trump at the White House to celebrate Louisiana baseball and again to discuss advancing nominations through the U.S. Senate and an end to the Schumer Shutdown.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-when-the-gulf-of-america-is-open-america-thrives/,"ICYMI: When the Gulf of America is Open, America Thrives",2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) penned an op-ed in the American Press underscoring the importance that the Gulf of America plays in powering the nation’s economy, supporting Louisiana jobs, and advancing President Trump’s energy dominance agenda.

“What begins off the coast of Louisiana leads to economic growth across all 50 states, greater energy independence for our nation, and a steadfast commitment to freedom and prosperity for every American. That is my goal, and that is President Trump’s goal,” wrote Dr. Cassidy.

“Louisiana is ready to lead. The workers are here. The resources are here. Let’s keep the Gulf of America open, keep the jobs coming, and continue powering the freedom and prosperity that define this great country,”concluded Dr. Cassidy.

Read the full op-ed here or below:

When the Gulf of America is Open, America Thrives

When the Gulf of America is open, America does better. Families have good jobs. Energy prices stay affordable. Restaurants fill up on Friday nights. Our country grows stronger. What begins off the coast of Louisiana leads to economic growth across all 50 states, greater energy independence for our nation, and a steadfast commitment to freedom and prosperity for every American. That is my goal, and that is President Trump’s goal.

The energy produced in the Gulf of America powers Louisiana’s economy. Oil and gas from the Gulf account for roughly 25% of our state’s total economic output and support 15% of all jobs.

Offshore production sustains over 250,000 Louisiana workers — men and women whose paychecks help support schools, local small businesses, libraries, and mor. Each year, this industry contributes $4.5 billion in taxes and adds $2.1 billion to our state’s overall economy.

The Gulf’s importance stretches far beyond our state’s borders. It provides nearly all of America’s offshore oil and gas — about 14% of our total energy supply — and generated nearly $7 billion in federal revenue just last year. Energy flowing from the Gulf means reliable power for families and businesses all across the nation, and it’s done with high safety and responsibility standards.

To maintain a strong flow of energy, federal agencies conduct routine reviews known as biological opinions, or BiOps. These reviews are meant to keep energy projects moving forward responsibly, while protecting key natural resources, and giving businesses and workers the certainty they need to invest and create jobs. For President Trump’s energy dominance agenda to succeed, we need a BiOp that provides stability, fuels growth, and keeps America energy independent.

The current BiOp, developed on a rushed timeline under the Biden administration, relies on outdated data and speculative modeling. Reviews this important should be built on real, verifiable evidence, not guesswork. When the science is thin, the consequences are not: workers, communities, and our allies who depend on American energy pay the price. We need a BiOp anchored in current facts and rigorous methodology to avoid creating a false choice between conservation and energy security.

American natural gas allows European countries to rely less on Russia, which keeps markets strong and supports freedom around the world. Cutting back production here doesn’t protect anyone; it just hands control to countries like China, Russia, and Venezuela.

That’s why, in President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts bill, we’ve expanded Gulf lease sales for the next 15 years. Republicans promised to create jobs and restore Ameri- can energy dominance, and this is a clear step toward delivering on those promises. Alongside that, with the REPAIR Act — which I’ve introduced with Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo — we’re working to stop frivolous lawsuits that bog down the permitting process, waste taxpayer dollars, and hurt American workers.

When the Gulf of America is open, everyone benefits — from the offshore worker in Houma to the family in Ohio paying less at the pump, to our allies overseas who rely on reliable, affordable American energy. Keeping the Gulf open fuels opportunity, prosperity, and freedom for all Americans. It keeps our country energy in- dependent and competitive on the world stage.

With President Trump’s energy dominance agenda leading the way, we are expanding and securing America’s energy future like never before. We can unlock even more of the Gulf’s potential and keep Louisiana at the heart of this great success story.

Louisiana is ready to lead. The workers are here. The resources are here. Let’s keep the Gulf of America open, keep the jobs coming, and continue powering the freedom and prosperity that define this great country.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-risch-republican-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-second-amendment-rights-during-government-shutdowns/,"Cassidy, Risch, Republican Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Second Amendment Rights During Government Shutdowns",2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Jim Risch (R-ID) introduced the Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act to ensure law-abiding gun owners can exercise their Second Amendment rights during government shutdowns. The bill would require federal agencies to continue processing firearm applications and licenses despite a lapse in appropriations.

“The Constitution doesn’t stop working when the government shuts down. The right to protect your family is God-given. We should process these applications regardless of the Schumer Shutdown,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“The government shutdown has real impacts on real people, but it certainly should not compromise our constitutional rights. While Democrats pander to their far-Left base, federal agencies have stopped processing firearm applications, unjustly restricting law-abiding Idahoans’ Second Amendment rights,” said Senator Risch. “My Firearm Access During Shutdowns Act ensures our right to lawfully bear arms is not infringed when there is a lapse in appropriations.”

Cassidy and Risch were joined by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Steve Daines (R-MT), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Justice (R-WV), James Lankford (R-OK), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) in introducing the legislation.

BackgroundDuring government shutdowns, federal agencies are limited in the work they can conduct. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives have halted most operations associated with the background checks and licensing applications due to the shutdown, impacting law-abiding gun owners and disrupting firearm sales nationwide.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-ernst-recognize-veteran-small-business-owners/,"Cassidy, Ernst Recognize Veteran Small Business Owners",2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) led a group of colleagues in designating November 3rd – 7th, 2025, as National Veterans Small Business Week to highlight the important role veteran-owned businesses play in contributing to Louisiana’s economy and strengthening communities.

“We have a responsibility to care for those who have served our country, as well as their families. Supporting and helping veterans’ small businesses grow is a way to do so,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Ensuring veterans have every opportunity to pursue the American Dream is personal to me. They fiercely protected our freedoms during their service and, now as civilians, exemplify the American entrepreneurial spirit. During National Veterans Small Business Week, join me in celebrating these men and women who have served their country and now their communities,” said Senator Ernst.

Cassidy and Ernst were joined by U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jim Banks (R-IN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Ted Budd (R-NC), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Hoeven (R-ND), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Steve Daines (R-MT), Katie Britt (R-AL), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Cindy Hyde-smith (R-MS), John Barrasso (R-WY), James Lankford (R-OK), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Todd Young (R-IN), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Rick Scott (R-FL), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jon Husted (R-OH), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Curtis (R-UT), Tim Scott (R-SC), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mike Lee (R-UT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jack Reed (D-RI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) in introducing the resolution.

Background

This week, Cassidy honored veterans and their families in Slidell during the community’s annual Veterans Appreciation Reception to thank them for defending America’s freedom.

Last month, the U.S. Senate passed Cassidy’s Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act to increase access to job counseling services for spouses of members of the Armed Forces who died while on active duty – “surviving spouses” – through the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program.

Recently, Cassidy convened a field hearing in New Orleans titled “Breaking Barriers: Improving Veterans’ Mental Health in Louisiana, where he examined how mental health care services are functioning for veterans in Louisiana, and where they can be improved.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-honors-veterans-in-slidell/,Cassidy Honors Veterans in Slidell,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"METAIRIE – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) yesterday afternoon honored veterans and their families in Slidell during the community’s annual Veterans Appreciation Reception to thank them for defending America’s freedom.

“Today’s event celebrated being a veteran and serving our country. There is a camaraderie, even as veterans joke between the services,” said Dr. Cassidy. “They were living life as they lived their service to our country.”

As a member of the U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), Cassidy works to pass legislation that benefits veterans and their families. His Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act passed through the Senate earlier this month. The bill increases access to job counseling services for spouses of members of the Armed Forces who died on active duty. Cassidy also recently convened a SVAC field hearing in New Orleans to discuss how to improve mental health care services for veterans.

At the Veterans Appreciation Reception, retired officers from the Army and Navy also thanked those in attendance for their service. The presentation of the colors was conducted by Northshore High School’s ROTC unit, and a medley of patriotic songs was performed by the Knights of Columbus Regional Choir.

Cassidy was welcomed to the reception by Mr. Chuck Sabadie, the Chairman for the Veterans Appreciation Reception.

“Seventeen years ago, a group of community leaders inspired by a young sergeant home from Iraq began honoring veterans in Slidell,” said Mr. Sabadie. “We now have an annual reception with the support of the mayor, volunteers, and most importantly, our veterans. Every year we have guest speakers, and now a Member of Congress to personally acknowledge our veterans. We thank Senator Cassidy for his support and advocacy in Washington.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2326,Kennedy Calls to End the Republican Shutdown as Safety Net Cliff Threatens Families,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On November 1, HEAP and Nutritional Benefits Run Out, and Open Enrollment With Skyrocketing Premiums Begins

As Republicans Keep the Government Shut Down Rather Than Protect Healthcare, Americans Will Suffer

LACKAWANNA, N.Y. - Joined by elected officials, nonprofit leaders, and members of the faith community at Second Baptist Church in Lackawanna, NY, Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) alerted his constituents that the safety net cliff he has long warned about is arriving. The loss of funding for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and nutritional benefits, coupled with the beginning of the healthcare exchange's open enrollment period and skyrocketing premiums, means working families across Western New York and the entire nation will begin to acutely feel the pain of the Republican-led government shutdown. As Democrats continue to fight to reopen the government and cancel the deadly healthcare cuts, Kennedy called on Western New Yorkers to rally around one another to help get them through this difficult time and reiterated his demand that Congressional Republicans come back to Washington and immediately enter into good-faith negotiations.

“We have warned for months of the risk of inaction in addressing the impending safety net cliff that our community is facing,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Tragically, those warnings have been met with silence by Congressional Republicans. Make no mistake about what this will mean. Families will struggle to put food on the table, seniors will suffer through a cold winter, and the nearly two million New Yorkers who buy their insurance on the healthcare exchange will wake up to impossibly high premiums. This confluence is creating a perfect storm that threatens to rip the rug out from under working families and make America sick. Republicans must come to the negotiating table and stop playing games with people's lives and livelihoods.”

Watch Congressman Kennedy’s full remarks here.

“As we enter the holiday season, community members in Western New York should be focusing on family, on celebration, and on prayer,” said Pastor Mark Blue. “Unfortunately, far too many will instead have to worry about putting food on the table, keeping warm, and finding affordable healthcare. At Second Baptist Church, we will do our part to stand up for the community, and we urge all Western New Yorkers to do the same. I urge Congress and the President to protect our healthcare and reopen the government in order to deliver for the American people and prevent further suffering.”

“The Republican majority is showing us just where their priorities lie with these cruel cuts, and it’s not with the American people, it’s with tax cuts for billionaires. Because of the GOP thousands of Erie County residents including infants, children, seniors and veterans will be colder, hungrier and sicker as we enter this month of Thanksgiving, all to further enrich the top 1%,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “While the GOP ran away for a long vacation, turning their backs on their constituents, hardworking people out here in the real world have had to make difficult decisions about how to make ends meet. The Republicans have shown that they have no interest in or cares about the health and wellbeing of their constituents, so it is up to us to rise as a community, call out their cruelty for what it is, and move forward together despite them.”

“The impending loss of federal program benefits and programs which provide our most vulnerable populations with access to food, heat, healthcare and other benefits will be heavily felt in the City of Lackawanna, and similar communities across the country, as nearly one-quarter of our resident population lives below the poverty level,” said Mayor Annette Iafallo. “As elected officials we must come together, across the aisle, and get SNAP, HEAP and other necessary benefits funded ASAP – while continuing to make affordable healthcare options available. While politics at any level of government can be complicated, it should never result in depriving the people we serve of basic needs and dignity.”

“FeedMore WNY and our network of partner agencies are preparing for a substantial increase in need in November,” said Collin Bishop, Chief Communications Officer of FeedMore WNY. “The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides benefits to approximately 201,000 individuals in our service area each month. If they do not receive that benefit, many will turn to our network for help. Anyone in need of that assistance can use the Find Food button on the FeedMore WNY website for a list of all the resources that are available through our organization. Ensuring all of these community members have the necessary nutrition for the month would be a substantial increase on the work we do, and we cannot do it alone. The Western New York community has already responded by reaching out to us, organizing food drives, sending donations, and offering to volunteer. This is the help we need now, and in the weeks to come. The longer the shutdown continues, the greater the burden will be on our food bank distribution network.”

“The impending pausing of HEAP and SNAP, along with healthcare open enrollment without the benefit of enhanced tax credits puts an undue burden on working families. I would ask why this is necessary, but for this administration, the cruelty is the point,” said New York State Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes. “I stand with Congressman Kennedy in bringing attention to this issue as we all work on solutions to mitigate this administration’s assault on the working class.”

“Without the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, working families, seniors, and low- and middle-income households in Western New York will face steep premium hikes, higher out-of-pocket costs, and reduced coverage options,” said Keisha A. Williams, Deputy Director of Neighborhood Legal Services. “Without access to affordable health care, health conditions worsen, financial distress grows, and families are forced to make impossible choices between medical care and other basic needs. Restoring funding for the Essential Plan and extending the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits will ensure that every member of our community can continue to access the care they need without risking financial hardship.”

“The financial hardship currently facing American families is not only heartbreaking, it is unethical and truly unamerican,” said First Ward Councilmember Amira Muflahi. “The inability to feed your family has to be the toughest struggle someone has to endure. Cutting benefits and services while inflation ravages the economy, is absolutely disheartening. I pray for a better tomorrow.”

“The looming halt to SNAP and HEAP benefits is just the latest example of the federal government’s disregard for working families and vulnerable people,” said Councilwoman Zeneta Everhart. “First, they gutted Medicaid and food assistance that millions of Americans rely upon, then they refused to extend tax credits that allow millions more to afford insurance on the healthcare exchange, and now they are choosing to let some 40 million Americans go hungry. As made clear by the lawsuit filed by 25 state attorneys general, including New York’s own Attorney General James, the administration not only has billions in contingency funding to maintain SNAP benefits during the shutdown, but also is legally obligated to do so. I join Congressman Kennedy in calling on Congress and the White House to stop prioritizing tax cuts for billionaires above the basic needs of working people.”

“The loss of vital supports like HEAP and SNAP, combined with rising costs, will leave too many Buffalo residents and community members in the Lovejoy District struggling to choose between heat, food, and healthcare,” said Councilmember Bryan Bollman. “I’m grateful to Congressman Kennedy for bringing attention to this critical issue, and I stand with him in calling for immediate action to protect our most vulnerable neighbors.”

Due to the shutdown, the start of New York's HEAP program has been delayed until at least mid-November from its typical early November opening. This delay means over a million low-income New York households cannot receive federal heating aid as temperatures drop. In Western New York, this week’s lowest temperatures dipped into the 30s, already putting the energy squeeze on families.

As a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown and the Trump Administration's refusal to use its legal authority to maintain benefits, millions of New Yorkers face the loss of their November SNAP benefits after already sustaining billions in cuts earlier this year. This is a choice by the Administration to play politics with food assistance, abandoning hungry seniors, veterans, and families with children by not releasing available funds.

Beginning November 1, many New Yorkers using the NY State of Health marketplace will face a sharp increase in their health insurance premiums due to the expiration of the Affordable Care Act's enhanced healthcare premium tax credits. This steep jump, which follows Republicans’ refusal to extend the credits, is compounded by other federal cuts to the state's healthcare programs, including a major reduction in funding for the Essential Plan.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-cruz-colleagues-condemn-abduction-demand-release-of-pastor-ezra-jin/,"Cassidy, Cruz, Colleagues Condemn Abduction, Demand Release of Pastor Ezra Jin",2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee introduced a resolution condemning the Chinese Communist Party for the abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin and other leaders of the Zion Church and calling for their release.

“Faith isn’t a crime. We need to call out China for once more targeting people of faith,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“The Chinese Communist Party is conducting yet another sweeping crackdown on Christians, and they are again targeting Pastor Jin and the Zion Church. The CCP fears anything it cannot directly control, perhaps most of all, faith. The United States has powerful tools to provide protection and relief to people facing persecution and violence, and we should use those tools unless and until China releases the members of the Zion Church,” said Senator Cruz.

Cassidy and Cruz were joined by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV),Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tim Scott (R-SC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jim Justice (R-WV), and Rick Scott (R-FL) in introducing the resolution.

“The Chinese Communist Party’s campaign of repression against Christians, including the targeting of churches such as the Zion Church, is a violation of fundamental religious freedom rights. I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this resolution, which sends a clear message: faith is not a crime, and the United States condemns the recent alarming arrests of church leaders by CCP authorities,” saidSenator Capito.

“The abduction of Pastor Ezra Jin and the ongoing religious persecution against Christians in China is a tragedy and a violation to individual rights and freedoms. I strongly condemn the Chinese Communist Party’s continued religious persecution of Christians, as well as believers of other faiths, and will continue to advocate for those being unfairly silenced,” said Senator Grassley.

“The Chinese Communist Party’s crackdown on Pastor Jin and the Zion Church is an attack on the God-given right to live out one’s faith. I’m joining this bipartisan resolution to condemn China’s persecution of Christians and other religious minorities and to call for the immediate release of all those arrested. The United States stands with the persecuted and is committed to defending religious freedom,”said Senator Tim Scott.

“The Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) track record of brutal religious persecution and oppression is evil and unacceptable, with the arrest of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri and members of the Zion Church as the regime’s latest violation of religious freedom and human dignity. America must always stand on the side of religious freedom as a basic human right and commit always to condemning evil violations of this right around the globe. I’m proud to join Senator Cruz on this resolution to condemn China’s religious persecution and demand the immediate release of Pastor Jin and all those imprisoned for worshipping God,” said Senator Rick Scott.

“Everyone deserves the right to practice their religion freely without fear. For years we’ve seen the Chinese government terrorize, persecute, and disappear Uyghurs, Christians, Buddhists, and other religious minorities. Just in the last few days, they’ve arrested Pastor Ezra Jin and other members of the Zion Church for simply doing what so many of us do each day: worshiping their God. I urge President Xi to release them along with all political prisoners,” said Senator Coons.

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House by Representative Andy Barr (R-KY-06).

“The CCP’s latest human rights violation is attacking and persecuting Christians. Senator Cruz and I are fighting to hold the CCP accountable if they continue targeting people of faith. We won’t rest until they release Pastor Jin and all the other people of faith wrongly detained,” said Representative Barr.

Background

On October 10, 2025, the Chinese Communist Party conducted the largest coordinated, nationwide crackdown against a Christian urban house church in over four decades. At least 22 pastors and church members from Zion Church, one of China’s largest underground congregations, were arrested, including a prominent pastor and the founder of Zion Church, Pastor “Ezra” Jin Mingri.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/local-spotlight-cassidy-recognizes-off-duty-st-bernard-parish-firefighter-for-saving-louisiana-womans-life/,LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: Cassidy Recognizes Off-Duty St. Bernard Parish Firefighter for Saving Louisiana Woman’s Life,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), for his monthly Local Spotlight, recognized St. Bernard Parish firefighter, Andrew Nixon, for saving a woman’s life seconds before her car was engulfed in flames following a collision with an 18-wheeler. Andrew was on his way home from a wedding with his fiancé when he pulled the young woman from her vehicle and carried her to safety. The 23-year-old firefighter reflects on the experience as a full-circle moment—drawing strength from the memory of his niece, Everleigh, whose tragic passing continues to inspire his commitment to protect others.

Read his full October 2025 Local Spotlight below:

I want to recognize Andrew Nixon, a St. Bernard Parish firefighter who saved a young woman’s life.

After witnessing a car crash off-duty—on his way home from a wedding with his fiancée—Andrew pulled over to the side of the road to check on a woman whose vehicle had just been struck by an 18-wheeler.

Noticing that the car’s tires were on fire, Andrew broke the woman’s windshield, lifted her out of the vehicle, and got her to safety seconds before her vehicle was completely overtaken by flames.

A woman’s life was saved because Andrew put himself in harm’s way to help her.

Andrew is a local hero—and anyone who saw him as an uncle knows his bravery and selflessness run deep.

Andrew, thank you for your bravery in the service of someone you did not even know. But because we’re to do unto others as we would have them do unto us, you saved her life.

Everleigh is in Heaven. She is proud of you for saving another’s life, even though hers could not be.

Background

In September, Cassidy highlighted French Settlement Mayor Jeremy Aydell, whose request to the office in June 2024 to include beauticians in President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Bill became federal tax policy.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-backs-republican-legislation-to-pay-capitol-police-officers-during-schumer-shutdown/,Cassidy Backs Republican Legislation to Pay Capitol Police Officers During Schumer Shutdown,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) co-sponsored the Pay Our Capitol Police Act to ensure members of the United States Capitol Police, their civilian staff, and essential contractors continue to receive pay during a government shutdown.

“Capitol Police is showing up every day to protect folks like Chuck Schumer who keep voting against paying them. That’s dedication to our country. They deserve a lot of credit—and more importantly, a paycheck,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Lankford (R-OK), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) in supporting the bill.

The Pay Our Capitol Police Act provides:

Continuing appropriations to pay members of the Capitol Police performing active service.

Pay for civilian employees and contractors who directly support Capitol Police operations.

Automatic coverage during any period in which interim or full-year appropriations are not in effect, retroactive to Oct. 1, 2025.

The bill is effective immediately upon enactment and remains in place until the passage of the next appropriations legislation or Sept. 30, 2026.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-on-senate-floor-end-the-schumer-shutdown-restore-flood-insurance-stability/,"Cassidy on Senate Floor: End the Schumer Shutdown, Restore Flood Insurance Stability",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor outlining the harm the Schumer Shutdown is causing daily for the half a million Louisianans enrolled in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Cassidy called on Senate Democrats to work with Republicans to reopen the government, restore stability for homeowners, and end the disruption to NFIP coverage.

“The Democratic Leader said that every day, the shutdown gets better for them. Well, I can tell you that every day the government is shut down gets worse for Americans in my state who are worried about flooding and losing everything.,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Reopen the government. Restore certainty to the American people. Protect homes. Protect families. Protect livelihoods,” continued Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

Mr. President,

I spoke on this floor a month ago about the consequences of a government shutdown on our country and my state of Louisiana—particularly the half a million Louisianans enrolled in the National Flood Insurance Program—or NFIP.

I called on Senate Democrats to join me and my Republican colleagues in keeping the government open and Congress working.

Unfortunately, the Senate Minority Leader shut down the government nearly a month ago to appease his radical base.

That’s nearly a month that many Louisianans on the NFIP have gone without the trust, certainty, and stability that the program is designed to provide.

Families are unable to close on a new home because they can’t purchase a new flood insurance policy.

Homeowners are vulnerable during hurricane season because they can’t renew existing policies.

And that raises a question the American people are asking every day: how can they trust a government that isn’t even open?

We know the NFIP is not perfect. It faces financial challenges. Some reforms are needed. But shutting it down makes the problem worse, not better.

The Democratic Leader said that every day, the shutdown gets better for them.

Well, I can tell you that every day the government is shut down gets worse for Americans in my state who are worried about flooding and losing everything.

The American people want solutions. They want a government that works. They want flood insurance that protects their homes, families, and livelihoods.

That’s why I’m working on legislation that would automatically reauthorize the NFIP during any lapse in government funding—in other words, prevent any future shutdown from interrupting the NFIP.

It fixes the damage caused by the Schumer Shutdown and ensures stability going forward.

My colleague from Louisiana and I have introduced two bills—one to extend NFIP in the short term, another to provide a full year of coverage.

We’re also working toward broader reforms that keep premiums affordable and the program sustainable for generations to come.

We must reopen the government immediately. Democrats have voted against doing so 13 times.

13 opportunities we have given them to end their shutdown, and they’ve thrown it back in Americans’ faces.

Government services might be on pause, but Hurricane Season isn’t.

Reopen the government. Restore certainty to the American people. Protect homes. Protect families. Protect livelihoods.

Republicans are trying to prevent the worst effects of the Schumer Shutdown from taking place, but Democrats keep blocking our efforts.

We want to pay the troops, we want to fund SNAP, we want to extend NFIP.

Democrats are a blanket “NO.”

The American People deserve better. They deserve more than the Democratic Party is willing to give them.

With that, I yield.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-delivers-speech-calling-for-end-to-schumer-shutdown-as-snap-benefits-hang-in-the-balance/,Cassidy Delivers Speech Calling for End to Schumer Shutdown as SNAP Benefits Hang in the Balance,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor slamming Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer for the negative effects of the Schumer Shutdown, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits running out, leaving nearly 800,000 Louisianans without critical food assistance beginning November 1st.

“SNAP can be the difference between a child having a full belly and that same child asking their mother when is the next time they will eat a meal,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“If Democrats are interested in lowering health care costs as they say they are, then reopen the government, pay our troops, and stop taking food from our children,” continued Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

Mr. President,

The government has been shut down for nearly a month.

It’s the longest full government shutdown in American history.

And it all began with the Democrat Leader’s desire to play politics with people’s lives and paychecks.

Americans—including those in Louisiana—are paying the price.

Nationwide, 1.4 million federal employees, many living paycheck to paycheck, are furloughed or working without pay.

13,000 air traffic controllers have already missed one paycheck and will miss another soon.

SNAP—or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—benefits will run out on November 1st in many states like Louisiana—that’s just two days away.

In my state alone, that’s eight hundred and four thousand individuals, including three hundred and twelve thousand children who rely on SNAP.

This isn’t some abstract ideological issue. We’re literally talking about food on the table.

SNAP can be the difference between a child having a full belly and that same child asking their mother when is the next time they will eat a meal.

Republicans are working to extend it—I am on a bill to fund SNAP.

But it looks like we don’t have the Democratic support to pass it.

Mr. President, that’s a lot of empty dinner tables—and a lot of children going to bed hungry.

Democrats have voted against reopening our government 13 times since.

13 times they have voted to take food out of children’s mouths and send families to the food banks instead.

I’m told that food banks will not be able to keep up. Federal workers, single parents with young kids—walking into empty food banks.

This is coming from a party that regularly claims that they are the party of children, families, and vulnerable communities.

Republicans and the Trump administration are working hard to mitigate the worst parts of this shutdown.

President Trump found the money to pay our troops.

Senate Republicans voted for a bill to pay all federal employees, including our air traffic controllers, who are working without pay right now.

Democrats blocked it. They are the party of “NO” right now, and the bizarre part is, no one could figure out why.

Until one of their leaders said the quiet part out loud.

The House Democratic Whip acknowledged Democrats are allowing people to suffer because a shutdown: “…is one of the few leverage times we have.”

This is the second-highest-ranking House Democrat openly confirming that working families are being used as political leverage.

This is all about politics, not what’s best for the country.

Now they will tell you it’s about health care, but again their position crumbles under scrutiny.

If it were about health care costs, why would they make people suffer more in order to change health care policy rather than reopen the government and negotiate with Republicans on solutions which actually lower health care costs?

Republicans have repeatedly said we will negotiate how to lower health care costs, just not while Americans suffer.

Our position is clear: End the shutdown, and then let’s talk about health care.

Seems reasonable. You might ask why they are still voting against reopening the government.

It’s because they know their proposals on health care won’t actually lower health care costs!

Under Democrats’ current plan, premiums will still go up next year.

Not to mention their proposed solution is just aimed at papering over the mess that Obamacare created, because the facts are clear: the Affordable Care Act did not make care affordable.

All of this seems one elaborate attempt to save face.

Well, it’s not working, and more importantly, Americans are suffering.

I repeat, REOPEN the government, then let’s have a conversation about the areas in health care we can address to actually lower premium costs and out-of-pocket costs for middle-class Americans.

By the way, the Democrats’ current plan will only affect the seven percent of people on Obamacare.

Their plan ignores ninety-three percent of Americans, who will also see costs go up. We need to help all Americans by fixing our health care system, not just papering over the failures of Obamacare to only help a few.

I’ll add that for as much as they talk about health care, the Democrat’s shutdown is defunding important health care programs. As Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, I led a bipartisan effort to protect Americans’ access to affordable over-the-counter drugs.

The members of my committee worked together to reauthorize the Over-the-counter Monograph Drug User Fee Program, sometimes referred to as OMUFA, which funds the review process to bring over-the-counter drugs to market.

Because of Democrats, for the first time in history, a user fee program has expired, meaning patient access to new over-the-counter treatments for common ailments is in jeopardy.

I’m a doctor. I want to tackle the numerous issues facing our health care system.

I’ve spent my whole career fighting for patients. Let’s have a conversation about lowering costs for all Americans—like those on Medicare, those with employer-sponsored insurance, and small business owners who provide insurance to their workers.

If Democrats are interested in lowering health care costs as they say they are, then reopen the government, pay our troops, and stop taking food from our children.

I’m tired of hearing people say there’s no off-ramp or way out of this shutdown.

Here it is, that’s the way forward.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-backs-bill-to-fund-snap-program-during-schumer-shutdown/,Cassidy Backs Bill to Fund SNAP Program during Schumer Shutdown,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), co-sponsored a bill to reinstate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the government shutdown. Cassidy joins U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-MO), James Lankford (R-OK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Susan Collins (R-ME), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Katie Boyd Britt (R-AL), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Jon Husted (R-OH) in pushing a U.S. Senate vote on the Keep SNAP Funded Act.

“Chuck Schumer is taking food out of children’s mouths by forcing this shutdown to continue. It’s wrong,” saidDr. Cassidy. “We’re stepping up to make sure families can still put food on the table.”

The Keep SNAP Funded Act would ensure full funding for the SNAP program during the government shutdown. Under the bill, Congress would appropriate the necessary funding to provide uninterrupted SNAP benefits, retroactive to the start of the shutdown. This legislation also provides a path for states to get reimbursed by the federal government for any funds used to keep the program going during the government shutdown.

Background

On Friday, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry signed an emergency declaration to help fund SNAP, for the nearly 800,000 Louisianans who rely on the program, if the ongoing government shutdown continues into November. Cassidy responded to the announcement by saying he was working on legislation to address this issue before the deadline.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2320,Kennedy Statement on Ending of Canada Trade Talks,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Tim Kennedy, Co-Chair of the Northern Border Caucus, released the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s announcement that the United States will end all trade talks with Canada:

“President Trump’s impulsive decision to end trade discussions with Canada shows how unserious he is about fixing our broken economy and making life more affordable for all Americans. This move will have devastating consequences for our economy, our workers, and our northern border communities, including right here in Western New York.

“Canada is one of our closest allies and largest trading partners. In northern border communities like mine, trade and tourism are a lifeline for jobs and local businesses. President Trump’s senseless trade war and constant insults against Canada are destroying that relationship, weakening our economy, and hurting Americans across the country. As families struggle with the skyrocketing cost of living, we need smart, strategic economic policy, not presidential temper tantrums that create instability and uncertainty.”

“Only Congress has the constitutional authority to impose tariffs, and the Supreme Court now has an opportunity to make that clear to this president who continues to disregard the rule of law. It is time for Congressional Republicans to stop bending the knee to this out-of-control president and stand up for their constituents by rescinding these tariffs that are tearing apart our nation’s economy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/democrats-block-republican-effort-to-pay-troops-federal-workers-during-government-shutdown/,"Democrats Block Republican Effort to Pay Troops, Federal Workers During Government Shutdown",2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), today released a statement after Democrats voted to block the passage of his Shutdown Fairness Act to pay federal employees who work through a shutdown like active-duty military and air traffic controllers.

“Really?! Chuck Schumer won’t pay the troops! This is wrong!” said Dr. Cassidy. “If you can’t bring yourself to cross party lines to ensure our troops get a paycheck, you should reconsider why you ran for Congress.”

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI), Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tom Cotton (R-AR), James Risch (R-ID), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Todd Young (R-IN ) in introducing the bill.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-led-legislation-to-simplify-irs-notices-passes-senate-heads-to-president-trumpsdesk/,"Cassidy-Led Legislation to Simplify IRS Notices Passes Senate, Heads to President Trump’sDesk",2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the U.S. Senate passage of his Internal Revenue Service Math and Taxpayer Health (IRS MATH) Act to improve math error notices, an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) authority used to quickly adjust taxpayers’ returns. This legislation now heads to President Trump’s desk for signature.

“Americans should have every opportunity to keep their hard-earned income,” said Dr. Cassidy. “If the IRS thinks someone made an honest mistake filing their taxes, the IRS should be clear about how to correct it.”

“No one should have to spend a fortune on a lawyer or hours trying to figure out what went wrong on their taxes when the IRS already knows the answer,” said Senator Warren. “Our bill is a common-sense bipartisan solution to protect taxpayers and help put more money in their pockets.”

The Internal Revenue Code allows the IRS to make “math error” corrections — expedited adjustments to tax returns that contain simple math or clerical errors. Unlike other adjustments, which are made after a notice period and are challengeable in U.S. Tax Court, math and clerical adjustments are made automatically and require taxpayers to initiate responses to reverse them within 60 days. If the taxpayer does not contest the notice within the 60 days, the taxpayer forfeits their right to challenge, and the IRS can move forward with its normal collections process.

Each year, millions of Americans receive math error notices reducing their tax refunds but find the notices “vague and confusing” because they do not explain what error the IRS has corrected or that taxpayers have only 60 days to challenge the IRS’s position. The notices often list several potential errors that may have been made rather than specifying the exact issue, and they do not properly notify taxpayers of ways to contest the IRS adjustment, resulting in compounding errors on future tax returns and further risks to taxpayers. The legislation aims to improve the unworkable system to help taxpayers, who cannot afford lawyers to help them navigate the complicated correspondence process. The legislation follows the 2024 tax filing deadline and vastly improved taxpayer services this filing season, but the lawmakers are urging the IRS to build on those improvements by fixing long-standing issues with math error notices.

The IRS MATH Act addresses this problem for taxpayers by directing the IRS to improve notices of math or clerical errors, requiring that notices:

Identify the line item the IRS is changing;

Explain the reason for the change, and;

Clearly list the taxpayer’s required response date.

Requiring that the IRS notify the taxpayer of abatement determinations.

Requiring the U.S. Treasury Secretary to provide additional procedures for requesting an abatement of a math or clerical error adjustment, including by telephone or in person.

Creating a pilot program coordinated by the IRS and National Taxpayer Advocate to determine the benefit of sending math or clerical error notices by certified or registered mail.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in introducing the legislation. U.S. Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) and Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04) introduced the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-joins-fox-news-to-discuss-todays-meeting-with-president-trump/,Cassidy Joins Fox News to Discuss Today’s Meeting with President Trump,2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) appeared today on Fox News’ The Story with Martha MacCallum to discuss his working lunch this afternoon with President Trump at the White House, where Senate Republicans discussed working together to end the Schumer Shutdown.

“I think for the President it has been easier to negotiate with Hamas than it has been with Chuck Schumer. We need an end to the shutdown. Let’s get to work,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“The President was gracious as always,” continued Dr. Cassidy. “Connecting with the President about how we go forward was the most important thing we did.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-president-trump-meet-at-white-house/,"Cassidy, President Trump Meet at White House",2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, President Donald Trump invited U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Senate Republicans to the White House for a working lunch to discuss advancing nominations through the U.S. Senate and an end to the Schumer Shutdown.

“Great to be back at the White House today for lunch with President Trump,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Working together, we’re moving his agenda forward in the Senate to get results for the American people.”Yesterday, Cassidy joined President Trump at the White House to celebrate Louisiana baseball.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-senate-republicans-introduce-bill-to-pay-active-duty-military-excepted-workers-during-schumer-shutdown/,"Cassidy, Senate Republicans Introduce Bill to Pay Active-Duty Military, Excepted Workers During Schumer Shutdown",2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tom Cotton (R-AR), James Risch (R-ID), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced legislation to ensure federal workers who are excepted, like our active-duty military and air traffic controllers, don’t miss a paycheck during a government shutdown.

“Middle-class Americans showing up to work cannot miss multiple paychecks because Democrats shutdown the government,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s make sure our troops, like those at Barksdale, Fort Polk, and the Joint Reserve Base in Belle Chasse, and others who protect our nation and keep our country running still get paid.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/chair-cassidy-majority-whip-barrasso-nominate-president-trump-for-nobel-peace-prize-praise-historic-operation-warp-speed/,"Chair Cassidy, Majority Whip Barrasso Nominate President Trump for Nobel Peace Prize, Praise Historic Operation Warp Speed",2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and John Barrasso (R-WY), Senate Majority Whip, introduced a resolution nominating President Donald J. Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for launching Operation Warp Speed, which delivered safe and effective vaccines that saved millions of lives during the pandemic. President Trump calls Operation Warp Speed, “one of the greatest achievements ever.”

“President Trump’s decisive action in Operation Warp Speed not only saved millions of lives but brought the American economy back to life. When Americans needed a vaccine in record time to stop a once-in-a-generation pandemic, President Trump delivered,” said Dr. Cassidy. “The Nobel Prize has been given for a lot less. He should receive the next one!”

“Operation Warp Speed is a model of American strength and ingenuity. It would not have been possible without President Trump’s bold leadership. He bent an infamously slow bureaucracy to his will to bring a vaccine to market in under a year. Operation Warp Speed saved millions of lives in the United States and millions more lives around the world. President Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his life-saving achievement,” said Senator Barrasso.This effort echoes multiple Trump administration officials, including Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz, who have publicly called for the President to get the Nobel Prize for Operation Warp Speed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2319,"Kennedy, Parents, And Providers Sound The Alarm On Risk Medicaid Cuts And Dept. Of Education Firings Pose To Early Intervention Care",2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Early Intervention Services At Bornhava Rely On Medicaid And Department Of Education's Office Of Special Education Programs

With Medicaid Reimbursement Rates Already Too Low, New Cuts Threaten To Pull The Rug Out From Families

AMHERST, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) stood today with parents, early intervention providers, and advocates to sound the alarm on the risk that enacted Medicaid cuts and illegal Department of Education firings pose to the ability to continue to provide early intervention services. Standing at Bornhava, where Kennedy worked as an occupational therapist for nearly a decade, he warned that the Big, Ugly Bill’s massive cuts to Medicaid pose an existential threat to the services provided at the school and at other providers across the state and nation. This risk is exacerbated by the illegal layoffs at the Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs, which oversees billions of dollars of budget funding. According to public reports, employment levels at the Office of Special Education Programs may go into the single digits if the firings are allowed to continue. As of last week, the firings have been temporarily halted by a federal court. Rather than focus on working with Democrats to stop the government shutdown and cancel the cuts, President Trump and Congressional Republicans have chosen instead to punish the most vulnerable in our community by engaging in illegal firings.

“Bornhava and other early intervention providers change lives for the better every single day, helping children to live up to their fullest potential, and giving families the peace of mind knowing that their young ones are receiving the care they need and deserve to thrive,” said Congressman Kennedy. “I’ve seen it firsthand, working for nearly a decade at Bornhava as an occupational therapist. The children here aren’t a line item or a place to find budget savings - they are our future, and these cuts are robbing both them and our entire community of a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow by stripping away crucial resources and support they desperately need to succeed. It’s time to cancel the cuts, protect our kids, and make life more affordable for all working class families.”

""The proposed Medicaid cuts are not just financial—they are a direct threat to the lives and futures of our most vulnerable children, including those here at Bornhava,” said Dr. Shannon Karcher, Ed.D., Bornhava Executive Director. “Cutting critical early intervention services for children with disabilities creates setbacks with long-term consequences for their learning, growth, and independence. If the federal government steps back from providing adequate oversight and funding, the resulting gap will jeopardize the future prospects of students with disabilities, fundamentally limiting their potential.""

“My daughter Claudia received Early Intervention Care and Special Education Services for 18 years—services that were essential to her being able to thrive and lead a meaningful life,” said Tom Rosenecker, President of Claudia’s Club. “She’s now 22, and I shudder to think about the long-term impact program cuts will have on individuals like her and their families.”

“Cuts to Medicaid and Social Security will have long lasting effects on our most vulnerable population,” said Amy Monson, President of Down Syndrome Parents Group of WNY. “Families of all incomes of people with disabilities rely on the support it gives to provide essential services like specialized education, speech, physical, and occupational therapy. These interventions at an early age help people with disabilities to develop to their fullest potential. Additionally, most adults with disabilities rely solely on Social Security as they are not able to be competitively employed. The absence of services throughout different stages of life will have negative impacts in the future. This support is essential for people with additional needs at all ages and stages of life.”

""The essential services provided by organizations like Bornhava are not just about education; they are about unlocking potential and building futures,” said Stefanie Mueller, Bornhava Student Parent and Board Member. “My son was born with a rare genetic disorder. But from ages two to five, Bornhava provided him with the crucial support he needed - giving him his legs, his voice, and the confidence to embrace all the joys and challenges of typical children. The recent attempted gutting of the Office of Special Education at the Department of Education is deeply concerning. These cuts target our community's brightest - but most vulnerable - stars, and as a parent and Bornhava Board Member, I am grateful to Congressman Kennedy for bringing attention to this. I urge our community to unite in the fight to protect these crucial services.""

“The Republican Congress’s draconian cuts to Medicaid, along with the administration’s purging of key Department of Education civil servants, will have consequences - and sadly, families and students in our community who rely on early intervention care programs are going to bear the brunt of these destructive policies,” said Councilwoman Zeneta Everhart. “If the federal government refuses to change course, schools like Bonhava will suffer, families will lose access to early intervention care, and students with learning challenges will fall further and further behind in their academics, with grave long-term consequences not only for these students as individuals but for their families and our society as a whole. I’m proud to stand with Congressman Kennedy and our community’s educators to call on the federal government to reverse these cruel cuts and give every student an opportunity to learn, achieve, and thrive.”

The Office of Special Education Programs is a component of the U.S. Department of Education that provides leadership and financial support to states and local districts. Its mission is to improve outcomes for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities by administering the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and ensuring access to a free and appropriate public education. The personnel who are under threat of firing are critical for administering billions in IDEA grants, monitoring state compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), providing technical assistance, and ensuring the civil rights of the nation's 7.5 million students with disabilities are protected.

Medicaid is a critical funding source for Early Intervention (EI) services under IDEA Part C, covering eligible services for infants and toddlers with disabilities who are enrolled in both programs. States leverage Medicaid's Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit and other state Medicaid options to secure federal matching funds, significantly offsetting the cost to state and local Part C programs.

Bornhava is an Early Childhood Center in the Town of Amherst that provides specialized early intervention and preschool programs for children from birth to age five across the region who have developmental disabilities or delays. This center offers a nurturing, play-based environment with a team of special education teachers and therapists to empower children to reach their fullest potential, at no cost to families.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-bill-to-support-gold-star-spouses-passes-senate/,Cassidy Bill to Support Gold Star Spouses Passes Senate,2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) applauded the U.S. Senate’s passage of the Gold Star and Surviving Spouse Career Services Act. The legislation increases access to job counseling services for spouses of members of the Armed Forces who died while on active duty – “surviving spouses” – through the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program, a program housed within the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service at the U.S. Department of Labor. The program provides every state with funding to hire dedicated workforce specialists to provide individualized career counseling support with localized knowledge to eligible surviving spouses.

“During the Civil War, President Lincoln said that we the living have the obligation ‘to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.’ The Gold Star Spouse bill fulfills this command in the modern world—that the surviving wife or husband would have access to career services to care for themselves and their family,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) in securing the legislation in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The bill now awaits input from the U.S. House of Representatives.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-trump-celebrate-louisiana-baseball-at-white-house-ceremony/,"Cassidy, Trump Celebrate Louisiana Baseball at White House Ceremony",2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, President Donald Trump invited U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) to attend a ceremony at the White House honoring the 2025 LSU Baseball NCAA National Champions and the 2025 LSU-Shreveport NAIA National Champions. Cassidy is an LSU graduate — earning both his undergraduate and medical degrees there — and now serves as a professor at the university.

“Only in Louisiana do you get two national champions in the same sport in one year! It was great to mark the moment with President Trump and both teams at the White House,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Tomorrow, Cassidy will go back to the White House to have lunch with President Trump and Senate Republicans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/chair-cassidy-republican-colleagues-urge-governors-to-opt-in-to-trump-backed-school-choice-program/,"Chair Cassidy, Republican Colleagues Urge Governors to Opt-In to Trump-Backed School Choice Program",2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON– U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) sent letters urging states to opt-in to the upcoming federal school choice scholarship tax credit. In July, President Trump signed Cassidy’s Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA) as a part of the Working Families Tax Cut bill to authorize this program.

“This innovative credit will unlock billions of private dollars to fund scholarships for K-12 students across the country, including in your state,” said the members.

“Each of these scholarships could improve a child’s trajectory, open new opportunities, and strengthen your state’s educational outcomes and future workforce. We urge you to act quickly to ensure students can benefit from this tax credit from day one and dollars donated to your state remain in the state,” continued the members.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) and U.S. Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), Burgess Owens (R-UT-04), and Tim Walberg (R-MI-07) in sending the letter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-headlines-accf-louisiana-energy-summit-highlights-future-of-energy-security/,"Cassidy Headlines ACCF Louisiana Energy Summit, Highlights Future of Energy Security",2025-10-16,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) headlined the American Council for Capital Formation (ACCF) Energy Summit in New Orleans, bringing together top industry leaders and federal, state, and local officials. In his remarks, Cassidy highlighted how smart energy policy is the key to international competition, domestic security, and prosperity.

“Smart energy policy is the key to making Louisiana and America more prosperous, competitive, and energy independent,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re bringing decision-makers here — to Louisiana, the energy powerhouse for our country — to accomplish these goals.”

The Summit featured eleven panels that explored bolstering U.S. manufacturing, securing energy independence, and understanding the future of AI in the energy sector.

“There’s no better place to have this conversation than right here in Louisiana, surrounded by its industry, workforce, and researchers. The Senator’s vision was to create a venue to foster dialogue among Louisiana stakeholders that was inclusive and open to the public. Today, he achieved that goal: the Summit convened 11 panels, 70 speakers, and 450 registered attendees,” said George David Banks, Chief Operating Officer, ACCF. “ACCF is grateful for Senator Cassidy’s leadership and looks forward to working with him and his team next year.”

Background

In May, Cassidy introduced legislation to strengthen power grids resiliency across the country by reauthorizing two U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant programs that help states and utilities invest in modernizing their grid infrastructure.

In April, Cassidy and Senate Republicans introduced legislation to protect the permitting process for U.S. energy, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure projects from frivolous lawsuits designed to stall judicial reviews of approved projects.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-delivers-floor-speech-celebrating-louisiana-veterans-102nd-birthday/,Cassidy Delivers Floor Speech Celebrating Louisiana Veteran’s 102nd Birthday,2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor recognizing Mary Nugent, a Louisiana World War II U.S. Navy veteran, who turned 102 years old this month. Cassidy reflected on Mary’s life of service and devotion to God, her country, and her community.

“I’m told Mrs. Nugent still greets people with a warm smile and has a deep appreciation for nature. Perhaps her habit of looking for the good in everything and everyone is the secret to a long life,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Mary, thank you for your service to our country and state—you’ve made Louisiana and our country a better place for 102 years. You inspire, you bless, you make Louisiana proud. Happy birthday!” concluded Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

Mr. President, I want to recognize Mary Hajek Nugent, a Louisianan who exemplifies the best of our state—hard work, service, and faith—and just turned 102 years young this month.

Born on a farm near Libuse, Louisiana, Mary has been always been a hard worker. She grew up tending vegetable gardens, a fruit orchard, and farm animals before enlisting in the U.S. Navy, building planes at a bomber plant, and serving as a parachute rigger.

After World War II, she returned to Central Louisiana and devoted her time and talents to the tuberculosis unit at Pineville Veterans Hospital. She later worked at a downtown Alexandria Veterans Affairs office, where she met her husband, Robert Nugent.

I’m told Mrs. Nugent still greets people with a warm smile and has a deep appreciation for nature. Perhaps her habit of looking for the good in everything and everyone is the secret to a long life. A long-time member of Calvary Baptist Church, Mary’s faith is strong, and she still wakes up every day with a smile and words of thanksgiving.

Mary, thank you for your service to our country and state—you’ve made Louisiana and our country a better place for 102 years. You inspire, you bless, you make Louisiana proud. Happy birthday!

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2318,"Kennedy, Organized Labor, Nursing Home Leadership, and Residents Warn of Dire Consequences of Medicaid Cuts on Nursing Home Care",2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Kennedy: Congress Must Cancel the Cuts and Stop the Shutdown

In Kennedy’s District, 63% of Nursing Home Residents Rely on Medicaid Coverage, Threatening Long-term Viability of Critical Services

TONAWANDA, N.Y. - Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) was joined by members of 1199SEIU, residents, and leadership from the McAuley Residence in Tonawanda, New York, to highlight the dire consequences that Congressional Republicans’ massive Medicaid cuts will have on nursing home residents and the facilities they rely on. With 63% of nursing home patients in Kennedy’s district relying on Medicaid, the well-being of thousands of Western New Yorkers, as well as the facilities they rely on, are at severe risk. Kennedy warned that the Medicaid cuts will lead to more facility closures, adding to the pain already felt from the closure of Weinberg Campus in 2024, which upended the lives of hundreds of residents and employees. Kennedy demanded that House Republicans return to Washington to stop the shutdown, cancel the cuts, and extend healthcare tax credits.

“The hardworking men and women of 1199SEIU provide thoughtful, empathic, and loving care each day to the more than 130 residents of McAuley Residence, a story that is played out each day in dozens of nursing homes across the region,” said Congressman Kennedy. “With 63% of nursing home residents in the region relying on Medicaid coverage, we are careening towards disaster, and we risk the closure of more nursing homes. As an occupational therapist, I know firsthand that when nursing homes close, care is interrupted and, tragically, people die. It’s time for Congressional Republicans to stop playing games with our healthcare. Cancel these deadly cuts and stop the shutdown.”

“1199SEIU members provide essential care and services to the most vulnerable seniors in our community. For decades, unionized healthcare workers have fought hard to win quality benefits and wages to sustain working families in WNY,” said Grace Bogdanove, 1199SEIU Vice President, WNY Nursing Home Division. “Congressional Republicans who recently shut down our government and voted to cut $1.2 trillion dollars in healthcare funding are putting jobs and care for New Yorkers at risk – all to line the pockets of billionaires. As 1 out of every 4 nursing homes face closure due to inadequate funding, already strained hospital systems will continue to be overburdened when these critical long term care and rehabilitative beds go offline.”

“Congressman Kennedy knows our nursing homes – and the compassionate care we provide – well, and has been a tireless partner in Albany, and now in D.C., to shine a light on the financial challenges threatening nursing homes, especially in communities like ours,” said John Durno, Administrator of the McAuley Residence. “More than 90 not-for-profit nursing homes have closed or been sold in the last 10 years in New York, and four – all upstate -- have closed in the last 12 months. It is critical that policymakers at the state and federal level all work to fund nursing homes and adequately reimburse for the care provided. Our region’s elderly deserve to have high quality, skilled care provided in our community.”

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, ""Republican leadership’s refusal to cancel these Medicaid cuts is not just a budget issue, it’s a moral failure. Here in Western New York, nursing homes are already stretched thin, struggling to recruit staff and provide the level of care our seniors deserve. If these cuts go through, it will mean fewer beds, fewer caregivers, and more families forced to make impossible choices about their loved ones’ care. We cannot allow Washington’s political games to endanger the health, dignity, and safety of our seniors.""

McAuley Residence, operated by Catholic Health and led by the members of 1199SEIU, has an average daily census of 135 and was rated by Newsweek as one of the Top 50 best nursing homes in the nation in 2024.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-delivers-speech-honoring-two-louisiana-police-officers-shot-in-the-line-of-duty/,Cassidy Delivers Speech Honoring Two Louisiana Police Officers Shot in the Line of Duty,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor recognizing Captain Brett Stassi Jr. of the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, the son of Sheriff Stassi, and Deputy Charles Riley, who were shot in the line of duty Monday, October 6th,, in Plaquemine, Louisiana. Deputy Riley did not survive his injuries. Captain Stassi remains in critical but stable condition.

“Mr. President, a tragedy like this reminds us that law enforcement officers put their lives on the line for us every single day,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Deputy Riley gave his life protecting our community,” continued Dr. Cassidy. “We pray for his close friends and loved ones—those here who grieve the loss of someone they look up to and will deeply miss.”

“We pray and hope for Stassi’s strength and full recovery—and for his wife and family,”continued Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

Mr. President,

On Monday evening, a tragedy occurred at a courthouse building in Plaquemine, Louisiana.

Captain Brett Stassi Jr. of the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, the son of Sheriff Stassi, and Deputy Charles Riley were shot by a suspect they were attempting to arrest in connection with a sexual assault case.

The two officers were taken to a hospital, where Deputy Riley—a six-year veteran of the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, husband, and father—died.

Captain Stassi, I’m told, has undergone surgeries and is in critical but stable condition as of now.

These officers were attacked while booking a sex offender.

Mr. President, a tragedy like this reminds us that law enforcement officers put their lives on the line for us every single day.

We can never take that for granted.

Deputy Riley gave his life protecting our community.

We pray for his close friends and loved ones—those here who grieve the loss of someone they look up to and will deeply miss.

Our hearts are with the fellow deputies who are hurting and the Plaquemine community.

We pray and hope for Stassi’s strength and full recovery—and for his wife and family.

The support we get from law enforcement—the willingness to put themselves in harm’s way—can never be repaid.

We should support law enforcement, as well as those who are suffering in the wake of this tragedy.

With that, I yield.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-mullin-republican-colleagues-introduce-resolution-honoring-service-members-lost-in-abbey-gate-bombing-establishing-national-day-of-remembrance/,"Cassidy, Mullin, Republican Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring Service Members Lost in Abbey Gate Bombing, Establishing National Day of Remembrance",2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), and a group of Republican colleagues introduced a resolution honoring the lives of the 13 brave service members who died in the bombing at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan, on August 26, 2021, and establishing a National Day of Remembrance to officially recognize the victims and their faithful service to the United States.

“For 13 American families, August 26th marks another painful year without their loved ones because of the Biden-Harris administration’s botched withdrawal from Afghanistan. We must honor their sacrifice by demanding accountability and ensuring such failures never happen again,” said Dr. Cassidy.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t think about the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan and the 13 servicemembers we lost at Abbey Gate. Four years later, not one person has been held accountable for the Biden administration’s reckless decision-making that cost American lives. Our resolution will ensure no one forgets the 13 heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice as we continue to push for answers,” said Senator Mullin. “We owe it to the Americans the Biden-Harris administration left behind and those who needlessly lost their lives to provide accountability, so a disaster of this magnitude never happens again.”

U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jim Justice (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Steve Daines (R-MT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Hoeven (R-ND), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ashley Moody (R-FL), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Boozman (R-AR), Eric Schmitt (R-MO) and Todd Young (R-IN) joined Cassidy and Mullin in cosponsoring the resolution.

“August 26 will always be a somber date in our nation’s history, marking the day when 13 American heroes lost their lives at Abbey Gate. We will never forget their service or sacrifice,” said Senator Cotton.

“The Biden admin’s botched Afghanistan withdrawal will forever be a stain on our nation. We will never forget the fallen 13 and all those wounded in the tragedy at Abbey Gate,” said Senator Cornyn.

“It is our solemn duty to honor the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation at Abbey Gate. That’s why I am proud to cosponsor a resolution establishing a National Day of Remembrance. As we remember their sacrifice, we also pay tribute to the Gold Star Families who have faced unimaginable grief. We will never forget their loved ones’ bravery, nor the cost of our freedom,”said Senator Moody.

“The 13 U.S. servicemembers and civilians whose lives were needlessly taken from them four years ago deserve to be remembered in history books for years to come. President Trump has gone above and beyond to honor the families of each of these fallen servicemembers, and it is now time for Congress to do the same. I am thankful for their sacrifice and honored to be a part of an important effort to ensure their heroic actions are never forgotten,” said Senator Tuberville.

“Due to senseless policy decisions made by the Biden administration, 13 heroic servicemembers were tragically killed at Abbey Gate during America’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. While the pain felt by their loved ones will never fade, there is no better way to remember and honor the service and sacrifice of those lost that fateful day than by establishing a National Day of Remembrance,” said Senator Budd.

U.S. House Representative Max Miller (R-OH-07) introduced the House companion, H.J. RES 116, on August 26, 2025.

“Four years ago, 13 service members lost their lives at Abbey Gate in Afghanistan. These men and women embodied the values of America: Bravery, Selflessness, Dedication, and Service. As a Marine, I know the sacred responsibility we carry to honor the memory of the fallen, not just in words, but in action,” said Representative Miller. “I introduced a resolution to designate August 26 the official National Day of Remembrance for the victims of the bombing at Abbey Gate. A grateful nation must never forget their sacrifice.”

Background

On August 26, 2021, an ISIS-K suicide bomber targeted a civilian gate (Abbey Gate) at Hamid Karzai International Airport during the withdrawal of U.S. military forces and non-combatant evacuation of Kabul, Afghanistan.

The attack resulted in the death of 13 U.S. servicemembers and more than 160 Afghan civilians in the deadliest day for the U.S. military in Afghanistan since 2011.

President Trump signed a proclamation on August 25, 2025, to commemorate the 4th anniversary of the attack.

The Resolution designates a National Day of Remembrance in honor of the American servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice at the bombing of Abbey Gate at the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, on August 26, 2021, and expresses condolences and gratitude to the Gold Star Families of those lost.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-supports-national-defense-package-secures-louisiana-investments/,"Cassidy Supports National Defense Package, Secures Louisiana Investments",2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) issued the following statement after voting to pass the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“The Schumer Shutdown is harming families and denying our troops their pay,” said Dr. Cassidy. “That’s why Republicans are working to strengthen our defense, support Louisiana’s military bases, and protect our troops.”

Provisions Cassidy secured for Louisiana in the NDAA include:

The NDAA also includes language establishing a Military–Civilian Medical Surge Program as a program of record, building on Cassidy’s prior $6 million in DoD funding that added LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) as an National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) pilot site. This will stabilize long-term funding, strengthen LSUHS’s partnership with Barksdale and the Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs, and enhance Louisiana’s role in national disaster and medical readiness.Additionally, the NDAA increases authorization for shipbuilding and amphibious fleet programs, supporting Louisiana shipyards and strengthening America’s maritime defense industrial base.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-applauds-senate-confirmation-of-president-trumps-pick-for-the-middle-district-of-louisiana/,Cassidy Applauds Senate Confirmation of President Trump’s Pick for the Middle District of Louisiana,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released the following statement applauding the U.S. Senate confirmation of Kurt Wall to serve as United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. A career prosecutor for over 30 years, Wall currently serves as the Assistant District Attorney and Chief Felony Prosecutor in Livingston Parish. Wall’s distinguished service to the state of Louisiana also includes directing the Criminal Division of the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office and serving as Assistant District Attorney in East Baton Rouge Parish.

“When President Trump wants results, he picks people who get them,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Kurt is the man for the job. He’s ready to protect Louisiana families and enforce the law.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-cassidy-releases-statement-joins-resolution-recognizing-two-year-anniversary-of-october-7/,"VIDEO: Cassidy Releases Statement, Joins Resolution Recognizing Two-Year Anniversary of October 7",2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) released a video recognizing the two-year anniversary of the October 7th terrorist attacks in Israel that killed over a thousand Israelis and Americans. Cassidy also joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) in introducing a resolution condemning Iran-backed Hamas for its actions, calling for the return of all remaining hostages, and supporting Israel.

“When you see the images and hear the stories of what families endured on October 7th, your heart breaks,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We stand with Israel and against the antisemitism that fuels Hamas. Let’s end the war with President Trump’s peace deal.”

Background

Cassidy applauded President Trump’s work to develop a proposed peace deal between Israel and Gaza.

As Chair of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Cassidy is leading multiple efforts to address antisemitism on college campuses following the attacks. At the HELP Committee hearing on antisemitic disruptions on campuses, Cassidy launched an investigation into the Hamas associated American Muslims for Palestine (AMP) group for helping organize, support, and facilitate violent, antisemitism demonstrations that are disrupting college campuses across the country. Additionally, Cassidy introduced the Protecting Students on Campus Act, that holds universities accountable to address discrimination and maintain a safe learning environment for all students.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2315,Kennedy Joins Primary Care and Emergency Care Providers to Demand GOP Cancel the Cuts and Reopen the Government,2025-10-06,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Standing With Doctors, Nurses, Patients, Elected Officials, Kennedy Underscores the Dire Need to Cancel the Cuts from Trump’s Big Ugly Bill

Reconciliation Bill Slashed Medicaid, Failed to Renew ACA Tax Credits, Setting Families Up For Dramatic and Unaffordable Premium Increases and Loss of Healthcare

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Joined today at Neighborhood Health Center’s Mattina facility by primary care and emergency care providers, as well as patients and colleagues in government, Congressman Tim Kennedy demanded that Congressional Republicans and President Trump end their government shutdown, cancel the Medicaid cuts, and permanently extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits that keep exchange-purchased health plans affordable for families.

As the Republican shutdown enters its sixth day, the need for Republicans to return to the negotiation table is more dire than ever. Without swift action from Congress to renew the ACA tax credits, families in Kennedy’s district face average premium increases of $1,670, while more than 1 million New Yorkers will lose health coverage entirely, and 11 rural hospitals risk closure. While Congressional Republicans were eager to provide tax cuts to billionaires permanently, they have failed to take care of working-class Americans by extending the tax cuts, threatening to remove access to healthcare for tens of millions.

“I spent more than a decade practicing as an occupational therapist, and I’ve seen firsthand what happens when there is a lapse in care, or worse, when there is a cancellation of care,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Congressional Republicans and President Trump made sure to take care of their billionaire friends by permanently extending their tax cuts, while at the same time leaving tens of millions of hardworking Americans out in the cold. Make no mistake, if they don’t cancel the cuts and extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, we will make America sicker and people will die. I won’t stop fighting to reopen the government and cancel these deadly cuts.”

""You may think this doesn’t affect you, but there are ripple effects,” said Joanne Haefner, President & CEO of Neighborhood Health Center of WNY. “For example, when a health center cuts services, hours, staff, or closes entirely, that limits access to care for everyone who relies on that health center – whether you have private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or are uninsured.""

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “This current government shutdown didn't happen by accident. It’s a choice made by Republican leadership in Congress, and they have to own it. By refusing to govern responsibly, they’ve thrown our healthcare system into uncertainty, threatened Medicaid funding that millions depend on, and jeopardized Affordable Care Act tax credits that help working families afford coverage. Here in Western New York, our hospitals, providers, and patients are paying the price for the dysfunction of Republicans in Washington. It’s past time for Republican leaders to reopen the government and stop playing games with people’s health and livelihoods.”

“It’s outrageous that Congressional Republicans, fresh off voting to rip Medicaid from some 12 million Americans, now want to let the enhanced ACA tax credits expire and kick millions more off their health insurance - and are even willing to shut down the federal government to do so,” said Buffalo Common Council Majority Leader and Ellicott District Council Member Leah Halton-Pope. “We know what happens when people lose access to healthcare. They go into medical debt, they fail to receive essential preventative care, and some even lose their lives. I stand with Representative Kennedy and local healthcare providers with a clear message for the White House and Congress: stop putting the profits of billionaires ahead of the health and lives of the American people.”

“The expanded Affordable Care Act tax credits are a critical lifeline for thousands of Western New Yorkers and millions of Americans, and yet MAGA Republicans want to strip these protections in order to fund more handouts for the billionaire class,” said Masten District Councilwoman Zeneta Everhart. “Let’s be clear: the government shutdown could end this morning if the White House and Congressional leaders committed to protecting health coverage. I’m proud to stand with Representative Kennedy and healthcare leaders to tell them, ‘Hands off Medicaid, hands off the ACA, hands off our healthcare.’

“We cannot afford to wait,” said Legislator Lawrence Dupre. “I stand with Congressman Kennedy and urgently demand the cancellation of Medicaid Cuts and the extension of ACA tax credits to restore the critical benefits our citizens deserve and need. The federal government must reopen and get to work on these issues.”

This failure by Republicans will blow a $1,670 hole in the annual budgets of the 10,000 people in Kennedy’s district who rely on ACA coverage, representing a 35% premium increase. The burden is even steeper for some. For example, a 60-year-old couple with a household income of $85,000 will face an extra $4,116 in annual health insurance costs—a 57% spike. Congressional Democrats have introduced legislation that will cancel the cuts, extend the ACA tax credits, and reopen the federal government. With Republicans in control of the House of Representatives, Senate, and White House, the onus is on them to come back to the table and negotiate in good faith.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-lummis-republican-colleagues-introduce-resolution-to-celebrate-domestic-energy-producers/,"Cassidy, Lummis, Republican Colleagues Introduce Resolution to Celebrate Domestic Energy Producers",2025-10-04,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and a group of Republican colleagues introduced a resolution designating October 4, 2025, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the men and women who work to power Louisiana, the nation, and the world.

“President Trump is focused on unleashing American energy—so am I,” said Dr. Cassidy. “American energy dominance means peace, a strong economy, and a better life for the American family. The people who work every day toward that goal are worth celebrating.”

“This is the time for American energy dominance,” said Senator Lummis. “After a four-year war on the west, President Trump unleashed American energy, opening our lands and resources to production and empowering our workers. I am proud to lead my colleagues in introducing this resolution that celebrates American energy independence, and the men and women throughout the west who are powering our lives.”

Cassidy and Lummis were joined by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Justice (R-WV), James Lankford (R-OK), and Jim Risch (R-ID) in cosponsoring the resolution.

“In Wyoming, we know firsthand how American energy production fuels American success,” said Senator Barrasso. “Wyoming is America’s energy breadbasket. Our workers produce the energy and resources that keep America running and our economy strong. Wyoming will proudly lead the way in celebrating National Energy Appreciation Day.”

“This Energy Day, I celebrate Idaho’s immense contributions to the production of home-grown energy,” said Senator Crapo. “It is vital we shore up domestic energy supply chain production to reduce the influence of foreign countries like China. We must work together to find collaborative solutions to our nation’s overall energy needs and an ‘all of the above’ energy strategy that promotes our energy independence and national security.”

“Energy and prosperity are inseparable, and America’s energy producers drive the growth and strength of our nation,” said Senator Cruz. “The American oil and gas industry, led by Texas producers, is the backbone of our economy and supports millions of hardworking families. The Biden-Harris administration pursued a climate agenda that disregarded these basic facts and undermined American energy production, but now with President Trump in the White House and a Republican congress we are restoring American energy. I am proud to join Senator Lummis and my fellow Republican Senators in introducing this resolution.”

”This resolution honors the hardworking Americans who power our nation,” said Senator Hoeven. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we’ve cut burdensome regulations, expanded access to taxpayer-owned lands and minerals, and strengthened domestic energy production. Celebrating these achievements on National Energy Appreciation Day highlights the critical role our energy workers play in driving economic growth, securing our future and maintaining energy dominance.”

“Unleashing American energy is essential to our nation’s strength and security, and it would not be possible without the hardworking men and women who power every part of the industry,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “From our offshore rigs and oil fields to our power plants, their work fuels our economy, lights our cities, cools our homes, and delivers the cleanest, safest, and most reliable energy in the world.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-speaks-to-lsu-turning-point-usa-chapter/,Cassidy Speaks to LSU Turning Point USA Chapter,2025-10-03,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last night, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) spoke to Louisiana State University’s Turning Point USA chapter. He honored the memory of its organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk, and pledged to keep advancing conservative values in Washington.

“Charlie Kirk inspired students to defend freedom, faith, and the values that America was built on,” said Dr. Cassidy.“It’s up to us to carry that legacy forward in Louisiana and across America.”

Cassidy was thanked for his attendance by Mr. Mark Schoeppel, Director of Recruitment and Outreach of the Turning Point USA chapter at Louisiana State University.

“We had a terrific time hosting Senator Cassidy at our meeting,” said Mr. Schoeppel. “At a moment where discourse is invaluable, we greatly appreciate the Senator taking time to discuss crucial issues with constituents and young conservatives.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-highlights-flood-insurance-risks-in-face-of-government-shutdown/,Cassidy Highlights Flood Insurance Risks in Face of Government Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered a speech on the U.S. Senate floor outlining the harm the looming government shutdown would have on the 500,000 Louisianans, and millions more Americans, relying on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Cassidy called on Democrats to join Republicans in keeping Congress working for the American people.

“If Democrats would stop trying to please the fringe of their party and start focusing on the real, immediate needs of the American people—like keeping the government open, maintaining flood insurance, and protecting access to rural health care—we could solve this today,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy’s remarks as prepared for delivery are below:

Mr. President,

Hurricane season ends November 30th—two months left to go.

Last week marked the first anniversary of Hurricane Helene—one of many storms so severe that Louisiana sent its own first responders to affected states to support emergency operations on the ground.

The weekend saw two Category 4 storms churning in the Western Atlantic.

Thankfully, it doesn’t appear that they will hit our coast.

Still, these storms remind folks in Louisiana, and in other states, that flooding isn’t a matter of if, but when.

Democrats are pushing us towards a government shutdown.

What does that mean for those on the National Flood Insurance Program?

Imagine you are about to close on a house. That house requires you to have flood insurance.

If you are in a special flood hazard area—by the way, over half of Louisiana is a special flood hazard area—and you’re purchasing a house with help from a federally-backed loan, you may not be closing on that home.

Nor will you be able to renew your existing policy.

All because Democrats rejected a clean continuing resolution to keep the government open.

Let me repeat: they walked away from a bill that simply extended the existing budget for seven weeks to allow further negotiation.

Now, they demand a highly partisan bill which would add more than one TRILLION dollars to our national debt.

They want taxpayer-funded health care for illegal immigrants.

Transgender surgery for minors.

And to cut the $50 billion Rural Hospital Fund Republicans created as part of our Working Families Tax Cuts bill.

Americans are left wondering how a shutdown will affect their flood insurance, while Democrats are writing checks to appease the far-Left.

I’ll tell you what the American people care about.

They want the government to do its job.

They want disaster recovery when it’s needed.

They want flood insurance that works.

They want rural hospitals to stay open.

They want energy security and a balanced budget—not trillion-dollar add-ons that only serve a political agenda.

Mr. President, the American people deserve accountability. And they expect Congress to put their needs before partisan politics.

If this shutdown happens, it will mean that the National Flood Insurance Program can’t renew policies.

That’s 500,000 Louisianans, and millions more across the country, unable to renew their policies while we are still in hurricane season.

It will mean delays in disaster aid and emergency response coordination. It will mean uncertainty for families still recovering from past storms.

This is personal for families in Louisiana.

If Democrats would stop trying to please the fringe of their party and start focusing on the real, immediate needs of the American people—like keeping the government open, maintaining flood insurance, and protecting access to rural health care—we could solve this today.

So I ask them: Who are you working for?

Are you working for the American families watching the weather, hoping the next storm doesn’t wipe out everything they’ve built?

Are you working for the veterans waiting on care, the seniors relying on their Social Security checks, or the communities who count on rural hospitals to be there in a crisis?

Or are you working for political activists and special interest groups that have nothing to do with the lives of the people you were elected to serve?

Mr. President, the path forward is simple: pass a clean bill to keep the government open.

Background

Earlier this month, Cassidy delivered a floor speech warning of the consequences if the National Flood insurance Program lapses.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-introduces-resolution-designating-september-20-27-national-estuaries-week/,Cassidy Introduces Resolution Designating September 20–27 National Estuaries Week,2025-09-29,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced a resolution designating September 20 through September 27, 2025, as National Estuaries Week and calling for the protection and restoration of America’s estuaries, which drive economic activity and are facing mounting threats from rising sea levels, pollution, and extreme weather.

“When Louisiana’s coastlines are protected, so is our way of life. Our estuaries are a lifeline. We must keep them healthy,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) in introducing the resolution.

“National Estuaries Week reminds us of the vital role estuaries, bays, sounds, and coastal regions play in our nation’s future,” said Daniel Hayden, President of Restore America’s Estuaries. “Nearly 40% of Americans live in a coastal region and many more rely on them for food, recreation, and trade but more can be done to ensure these ecosystems continue to thrive. We depend on our estuaries, and our estuaries depend on us. Restore America’s Estuaries thanks Senator Cassidy, Senator Whitehouse, and all of their colleagues who signed on to this bipartisan resolution – demonstrating continued support of our estuaries from our nation’s capital.”

“National Estuaries Week is a chance to celebrate the places that sustain our way of life in Louisiana and across the country,” said Bren Haase, Director of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program. “Estuaries are working landscapes—they buffer us from storms, fuel our fisheries, and anchor the communities and traditions that define coastal life. Here in the Barataria-Terrebonne region, we see every day how important it is to invest in restoring and protecting these waters and wetlands. We’re grateful for the bipartisan leadership in the Senate that recognizes the value of our nation’s estuaries and the role they play in building a more resilient future.”

Background

An estuary is a partially enclosed, coastal body of water where freshwater from rivers and streams meets an open body of water, typically the sea or Great Lakes. Nearly 40 percent of Americans live in estuarine regions, which support nearly 47 percent of U.S. economic output. Estuaries provide key ecosystem services that protect human health and safety, including water filtration, flood control, shoreline stabilization, and erosion prevention. They also protect coastal communities during increasingly frequent hurricanes and other extreme weather events.

Estuarine regions of the United States contribute disproportionately to the national economy. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, estuary regions cover only 13 percent of the land area of the United States, but they contain nearly 40 percent of the population and make up almost half of the country’s economic output.

Threats to estuaries are increasing, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimated that the continental United States has lost more than half of its wetlands since the 1780s. Additionally, bays across the country that once served as important fisheries are now considered “dead zones” filled with algal blooms, chemical waste, nutrient pollution, and marine debris.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/local-spotlight-cassidy-recognizes-louisiana-business-owner-who-influenced-president-trumps-working-families-tax-cuts-bill/,LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: Cassidy Recognizes Louisiana Business Owner Who Influenced President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Bill,2025-09-29,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), for his monthly Local Spotlight, recognized Louisiana business owner and French Settlement Mayor Jeremy Aydell, whose request to the office in June 2024 to include beauticians in President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Bill became federal tax policy. Each month, Cassidy highlights a local story that truly reflects Louisiana values of humility, respect, and resiliency.

Read his full September 2025 Local Spotlight below:

I would like to recognize Jeremy Aydell from Livingston Parish, Louisiana, who visited my office over a year ago representing the needs of small business owners in Louisiana.

Jeremy saw that, under prior law, employers of waiters and waitresses saved 7.65% in payroll taxes on tips, freeing up money to raise wages, add shifts, and support workers who earn those tips.

As a Sport Clips franchise owner in Louisiana, Jeremy wanted the same thing for the folks working in his stores.

So when Jeremy saw the opportunity to include this in President Trump’s tax bill, I agreed, and we got it done.

Because of that meeting—that conversation, Jeremy Aydell, a Louisiana business owner, helped influence national policy. Employer tip credit for tip income was included in the final text of President Trump’s tax bill, and Louisianans working in the beauty industry will take home more of their hard-earned pay, and salon owners will have a much-needed financial break.

I want to thank Jeremy—give him a shoutout—for coming to my office with that request. You helped make tax policy work better for Louisianans and for people across the country. You make Louisiana proud, and I am proud to have worked with you.

Background

Recently, Cassidy highlighted Louisiana search and rescue personnel Samuel Haynes, Turner Gore, Gordon Seagraves, Steven Maestas, Roy Gros, Christopher Whatley, Justin Wolfe, Colby Reed, David Burden, Austin Tull, Chris Shadoin, and Craig Bynog for aiding in rescue efforts following the flooding in Texas.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-34-6-million-for-louisiana-hurricane-recovery-and-emergency-preparedness/,Cassidy Announces $34.6 Million for Louisiana Hurricane Recovery and Emergency Preparedness,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive a combined $34,568,131.81 from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support recovery and emergency preparedness following Hurricanes Laura, Ida, and Francine. The funding will reimburse local governments, utilities, and state agencies for permanent repairs, emergency measures, and management costs.

“After a storm hits, families need their hospitals, schools, and power restored quickly,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding gets Louisiana back on its feet and ready for the next storm.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-tours-facility-meets-employees-at-rngd-in-metairie/,"Cassidy Tours Facility, Meets Employees at RNGD in Metairie",2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"METAIRIE – On Friday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) visited RNGD’s Southeast Region campus in Metairie, where he visited with employees and toured the complex.

“RNGD is a Louisiana company employing people from Louisiana as they build structures across the south. President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts bill gives more opportunity to create more jobs, and lets those workers keep more of their hard-earned money. I was glad to support it,” said Dr. Cassidy.

Cassidy’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has provided over $10 billion to Louisiana. Much of that money is going to build and improve roads, bridges, and highways in Louisiana. Companies like RNGD build the infrastructure funded by that bill.

Additionally, Cassidy voted for President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts bill, which made permanent income tax reductions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, and a deduction to help small businesses expense capital investments.

At RNGD, Cassidy discussed how they invested $25 million to consolidate their Southeast Region campus. This project will retain 265 jobs in the region, while creating an additional 130 jobs. There is also a Renegade Academy on site, a training center that hosts their award-winning professional and workforce development program.

Cassidy was joined on the tour by Mr. Jerry Bologna, President and CEO of JEDCO, the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission, which helped RNGD expand in the parish.

“RNGD’s decision to deepen its presence in Jefferson Parish has helped create more high-paying jobs and opportunities in our community while also amplifying the global message that JP is a destination for business, innovation and economic growth,” said Mr. Bologna. “Senator Cassidy’s visit to the state-of-the-art, 14-acre campus provides a special recognition of the company’s significant investment in Jefferson Parish and highlights the attention that this project has received on a national scale.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-50-million-to-boost-duck-hunting-access-expand-bird-habitat-in-louisiana/,"Cassidy Announces $50 Million to Boost Duck Hunting Access, Expand Bird Habitat in Louisiana",2025-09-25,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced that Louisiana will receive $49,838,000.00 from the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund to conserve more than 20,000 acres of waterfowl habitat and expand public access on two national wildlife refuges. Funding was approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission through revenues primarily generated from the sale of Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps, commonly known as Duck Stamps.

“Whether it’s duck hunting at sunrise or casting a line in the afternoon, Louisianans know how important the outdoors are to our way of life,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This funding allows folks to keep enjoying while boosting local economies in North Louisiana.”

This latest round of funding provides $35,238,000.00 to the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge for the conservation of 17,023 acres and $14,600,000 to the Red River National Wildlife Refuge for the conservation of 3,285 acres. These investments will strengthen migratory bird habitats, and expand opportunities for hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and other recreational activities that boost local economies.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2312,"Kennedy, Ramirez Lead 95 House Democrats in Demanding VA Reinstate Collective Bargaining Agreements for 377,000 Workers",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Lawmakers Emphasize that Suppression of Labor Rights Will Only Worsen VA Staffing and Reduce Quality of Care for Veterans

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) and Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03) led a coalition of House Democrats demanding that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) immediately reinstate collective bargaining agreements for more than 377,000 VA employees that were unilaterally terminated by the Trump administration, including nurses, doctors, and frontline staff who care for millions of veterans nationwide.

Kennedy and Ramirez underscored that the termination of these collective bargaining agreements is an egregious attack on organized labor and a direct threat to the stability of the VA healthcare system, the security of its workforce, and the quality of the care our veterans rely on.

“When you rip away workplace protections from nurses, doctors, and caregivers – many of whom are veterans themselves – you destabilize the very system our heroes depend on for their care,” said Congressman Kennedy. “This is reckless, it is politically motivated, and it will harm veterans in Western New York and across the country.”

The lawmakers’ letter comes after VA Secretary Doug Collins’s repeated insults regarding the integrity of hardworking union employees who tirelessly care for our nation’s heroes. Silencing unions who speak up against harmful policies not only violates workers’ rights but also weakens oversight, discourages whistleblowers, and erodes public trust in the VA’s ability to protect those who protect us. These actions to suppress collective bargaining protections will only deepen staffing shortages and threaten timely, quality care for veterans.

Kennedy, a longtime advocate for organized labor and a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, will continue holding the VA accountable to its mission of serving our nation’s heroes with the dignity, fairness, and respect they deserve.

Background

On August 6, the Trump administration abruptly terminated collective bargaining agreements for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), AFL-CIO, National Association of Government Employees (NAGE), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNU), and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Together, these unions represent the vast majority of VA’s 450,000-person workforce.

Full text of the letter below:

The Honorable Doug Collins

Secretary

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

810 Vermont Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20420

Dear Secretary Collins:

We write to express our outrage regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) decision to unilaterally terminate collective bargaining agreements covering over 377,000 employees. These workers, many of whom are veterans themselves, have dedicated their lives to serving our nation’s heroes. To that end, we demand that the VA reinstate collective bargaining agreements for affected federal unions.

On August 6, the Trump administration wrongly decided to terminate the collective bargaining agreements for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), AFL-CIO, National Association of Government Employees (NAGE), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), National Nurses Organizing Committee/ National Nurses United (NNU), and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). The unions have previously issued statements and protested the Administration’s decision against proposed staff cuts and have filed numerous lawsuits against such cuts.

For months, we have sought clarity from the VA regarding how they plan to implement the Executive Order related to the termination of collective bargaining agreements, but they have denied us any answers. The first official response we received was the VA’s press release, which attempted to justify the current contracts as “outdated” or “not aligned with VA values.”

To that end, it is clear that the Administration only terminated collective bargaining agreements for unions that have been critical of their actions, punishing those who have spoken out against VA policies that stripped protections for union members and the veterans they serve. Further, your assertion that “...unions that represent VA employees fight against the best interest of Veterans while protecting and rewarding bad workers” is both insulting and downright false. More than 80% of the VA’s 450,000-person workforce is union-affiliated, and AFGE alone represents about 300,000 employees working for the VA. The assertion is nothing but a hollow pretense for silencing labor voices, voices that often speak out against administrative abuse against our veterans without fear of retaliation. Union contracts are renegotiated, not revoked.

The Supreme Court has repeatedly found that “a fundamental principle of the First Amendment is that the government may not punish or suppress speech based on disapproval of the ideas or perspectives the speech conveys.” Refusing to honor collective bargaining agreements is a direct affront to the rights of the VA employees who are union members. Chilling the speech of unions and their members instills fear in the workforce, rendering employees less likely to report abuse and practice accountability.

Silencing VA’s unionized workers is a direct contradiction to the agency’s purported goal of improving efficiency and transparency. Anyone who purports to care about efficiency and accountability in government would, in good faith, empower workers to speak truth to power, to voice unpopular opinions, and alert the VA to potential abuse happening to our veterans. The mass termination of bargaining rights undermines trust, jeopardizes workplace stability, and discourages those who want to choose a career with the VA. Moreover, it signals an intent to weaken oversight and accountability, all of which will certainly impact the quality of care for our veterans.

We will not stand by while the administration makes decisions that intentionally violate the rights of its workers and jeopardize the health and well-being of our nation’s heroes. The administration’s decision to terminate the collective bargaining agreements of over 377,000 union members will destabilize the already overburdened workforce delivering critical care and greatly impact services to our nation’s veterans. We demand that the VA cease any further attempts to bypass or undermine the collective power of employees who have honorably chosen to serve our nation’s veterans

Sincerely,

Rep. Timothy M. Kennedy, Rep. Delia C. Ramirez, Rep. Chellie Pingree, Rep. Debbie Dingell, Rep. Danny K. Davis, Rep. Becca Balint, Rep. Shri Thanedar, Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, Rep. John B. Larson, Rep. Lucy McBath, Rep. Kevin Mullin, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Rep. Juan Vargas, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, Rep. Nikema Williams, Rep. Gwen S. Moore, Rep. Bill Foster, Rep. Sarah Elfreth, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, Rep. Jonathan L. Jackson, Rep. Paul D. Tonko, Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán, Rep. Herbert C. Conaway, Jr., Rep. Yassamin Ansari, Rep. Frederica S. Wilson, Rep. LaMonica McIver, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Joe Courtney, Rep. Adam Smith, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Rep. James P. McGovern, Rep. Betty McCollum, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson, Rep. Jason Crow, Rep. Glenn Ivey, Rep. Mike Thompson, Rep. Donald S. Beyer Jr., Rep. Val Hoyle, Rep. Angie Craig, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, Rep. David Scott, Rep. Johnny Olszewski, Jr., Rep. Dan Goldman, Rep. Marilyn Strickland, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, Rep. Scott H. Peters, Rep. Morgan McGarvey, Rep. Nellie Pou, Rep. Dina Titus, Rep. John Garamendi, Rep. Mike Levin, Rep. Sylvia R. Garcia, Rep. Grace Meng, Rep. Brendan F. Boyle, Rep. Robin L. Kelly, Rep. Julia Brownley, Rep. Robin L. Kelly, Rep. Julia Brownley , Rep. Andrea Salinas, Rep. Mark Takano, Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Rep. Maxine Dexter, Rep. Shontel M. Brown, Rep. Jared Huffman, Rep. Haley M. Stevens, Rep. Greg Casar, Rep. Eric Swalwell, Rep. Maggie Goodlander, Rep. Kelly Morrison, Rep. Greg Stanton, Rep. Chris Pappas, Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes, Rep. Kathy Castor, Rep. André Carson, Rep. Summer L. Lee, Rep. Dwight Evans, Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, Rep. Adriano Espaillat, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, Rep. Joaquin Castro, Rep. Chris Deluzio, Rep. Gabe Amo, Rep. Madeleine Dean, Rep. Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr., Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Rep. Joe Neguse, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Rep. Donald Norcross, Rep. Suzan K. DelBene, Rep. Yvette D. Clarke, Rep. Mark Pocan, Rep. Jill Tokuda, Rep. Josh Harder, Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, Rep. Mark DeSaulnier

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-over-22-5-million-for-louis-armstrong-new-orleans-international-airport-runway-upgrades/,Cassidy Announces Over $22.5 Million for Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport Runway Upgrades,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $22,539,337.00 from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reconstruct Runway 02/20 at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. This funding comes from Cassidy’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

“MSY is the front door to Louisiana for millions of visitors each year,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Rebuilding this runway keeps New Orleans open for business, for Mardi Gras, and for all the people who fly here to enjoy our food, music, and culture.”

The project will reconstruct 7,002 feet of concrete runway, and this grant funds the final phase of that construction.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-honors-law-enforcement-at-annual-awards-luncheon-in-new-orleans/,Cassidy Honors Law Enforcement at Annual Awards Luncheon in New Orleans,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"BATON ROUGE – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) delivered remarks at the Metropolitan Crime Commission’s Excellence in Law Enforcement Awards Luncheon. While there, Cassidy thanked law enforcement for their work and discussed how they can use his HALT Fentanyl Act, signed into law by President Trump, to target drug dealers.

“Fentanyl dealers are criminals and murders,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thanks to local law enforcement and my HALT Fentanyl Act, they are more likely to go to jail and Louisiana is safer.”

In July, President Donald Trump signed Cassidy’s HALT Fentanyl Act into law. Between 2014 and 2023, more than 400,000 Americans died from fentanyl overdoses, including 5,000 from Louisiana. The HALT Fentanyl Act addresses this crisis by giving law enforcement another tool by permanently scheduling fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.

Additionally in August, Cassidy hosted a press event to honor angel families and celebrate President Trump’s signing of his legislation. Video of the event is available here.

At the event, Cassidy was joined by Mr. Jonathan Tapp, the FBI special agent in charge for New Orleans, and Louisiana State Attorney General Liz Murrill. Cassidy was also welcomed to the event by Mr. Rafael Goyeneche, III, President of the Metropolitan Crime Commission.

“The HALT Fentanyl Act that Senator Cassidy authored and earned bipartisan support for is important not just to Louisiana, but to our nation,” said Mr. Goyeneche. “Fentanyl overdose deaths exceed the combined total of murders and vehicular deaths on an annual basis. This legislation addresses a public safety issue, and that’s why the Metropolitan Crime Commission invited the Senator to speak to our membership. This is critically important for safer communities in Louisiana, and throughout the country.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2311,"Kennedy: As We Warned, Healthcare Cuts Are Closing Facilities, Driving Up Premiums, And Putting WNY in Danger",2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Standing With Organized Labor, Healthcare Practitioners, and Patients, Kennedy Called on Congressional Republicans to Cancel the Cuts

GOP’s Budget Resolution Fails to Extend ACA Tax Credits, Hiking Premiums By 75% for Patients

BUFFALO, NY – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) stood outside of Buffalo Therapy Services in Amherst, which is slated to close in November, to sound the alarm on a deepening healthcare crisis spurred by President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ Big, Ugly Law.

Back in July, Congressional Republicans passed Trump’s sweeping legislative package that, in part, slashes Medicaid funding and allows enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits to expire in order to provide permanent tax cuts for billionaires. At that time, Kennedy joined healthcare workers, labor leaders, and community advocates to warn that Trump’s legislation would trigger devastating consequences: facility closures, skyrocketing premiums, degraded services, and millions losing health insurance. Today, those predictions are becoming reality.

“As the only occupational therapist in Congress, I know firsthand the kind of life-changing care that happens inside facilities like this one,” said Congressman Kennedy. “At a time when our nation’s healthcare system needed to be bolstered, Trump and Congressional Republicans have actively chosen to divest from our healthcare facilities in order to finance an economic agenda that only benefits the ultra-wealthy. We need to go back to Washington, fund the government properly, and cancel the cuts.”

Buffalo Therapy Services is one of several facilities set to close later this year – a list that includes the Millard Fillmore Surgery Center and the DeGraff Wellness Center. Kaleida Health has cited the upcoming Medicaid cuts as a key factor in their decision. Additionally, at least eleven rural hospitals in New York State are at risk of closure, threatening to worsen healthcare deserts where families already struggle to access basic care.

The crisis extends beyond facility closures. In the coming weeks, Western New Yorkers who rely on the ACA for their health insurance will receive notices showing an average premium hike of $1,670, a direct result of Congressional Republicans refusal to extend enhanced ACA tax credits. For many families and small businesses, this increase will mean impossible choices between keeping health insurance or paying rent.

Despite these looming threats, last week House Republicans passed a government funding resolution that Kennedy opposed because it did nothing to address the healthcare crisis. The measure failed to extend ACA tax credits, failed to reverse Medicaid cuts, and failed to reduce costs for everyday Americans.

“As a mother, a nurse, and a union leader, I can’t imagine anything more cruel than what we’re facing right now,” said Denise Abbott, President of the Western New York Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. “What Claudia Tenney and Nick Langworthy voted for, and what Donald Trump signed into law, will take away access to healthcare for nearly 40,000 workers, children, and seniors in our community, and some of them will die because of it. Working people everywhere are being forced to reckon with higher costs and local closures, like this facility in Amherst, so that the billionaires and CEOs can get another tax break. Healthcare shouldn’t be about profits, it should be about the patients in need and the providers who can help. That’s what our federation will continue to fight for, and we thank Congressman Kennedy for standing with us on this issue.”

“The results of these cuts and the failure to address them are unacceptable,” said Sarah Buckley, RN, CWA 1168 Political Legislative Action Director. “CWA 1168 appreciates Congressman Kennedy’s leadership on this issue. The reduction in services at 705 Maple Rd, Buffalo Therapy Services, and Degraff Wellness Center will lead to untreated debilitating conditions. The miracles I have heard about from patients who learned to walk and speak again through the wrap-around adult neurotherapy, and those who receive life-changing lymphedema treatment, will no longer be possible. The alternative services are either full or too far away for patients to navigate, and this is just the tip of the iceberg—not to mention the services lost with our family planning and ENT clinics, as well as the good union jobs and quality care from our ambulatory surgery center. We need more voices in Congress like Tim Kennedy who will prioritize the community over tax breaks for the super wealthy.”

NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, RN, BSN, CCRN said, “NYSNA nurses have been sounding the alarm on the devastating effects that the Trump administration’s attack on healthcare would have on patients, healthcare workers, and our communities. We are already seeing cuts to staff and essential services that threaten the safety and well-being of our patients. Nurses demand that hospital administrators put patients first and reverse the cuts that impact quality care. We also call on our elected officials to do all they can to reverse healthcare cuts and are proud to join allies who demand that Congressional Republicans Cancel the Cuts!”

""We've heard about the threats to Medicaid and the disastrous impacts such cuts would mean for our area,” said Assemblymember Karen McMahon. “Unfortunately, Western New Yorkers are already feeling the effects as services are being trimmed and access to health care is being limited. Republicans, acting as a simple rubber stamp for the Trump administration, have slashed Medicaid and turned the lives of patients and practitioners upside down. I'm proud to join Congressman Kennedy in condemning these unconscionable cuts and calling on Republicans to pass a continuing resolution to restore essential funding so that people can get the healthcare they need.""

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “The Republican reconciliation law has already dealt devastating blows to Buffalo’s health care system, with facility closures forcing families to travel farther for care and putting our most vulnerable neighbors at risk. And with the end of enhanced ACA tax credits looming, working families are now staring down steep increases in their health insurance costs. At a time when we should be strengthening health care access, these shortsighted cuts are dismantling it. I urge Republicans in Congress to end this manufactured crisis and use the continuing resolution to restore stability to our health care system before irreversible damage is done.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-improve-seniors-health/,"Cassidy, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Improve Seniors’ Health",2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals Program Pilot Act to provide access to medically-tailored meals, addressing the crisis of chronic disease in seniors. Medically tailored meals are designed by dieticians to manage or reverse severe diet-related illnesses and have shown promising results in reducing patients’ hospitalizations and lowering healthcare spending.

“Nutrition can determine how long patients stay out of the hospital,” said Dr. Cassidy. “For seniors with a chronic medical condition, healthy meals are essential.”

“As longtime advocates for policy initiatives that address the connection between nutrition and health, FIMC is deeply appreciative of Representatives McGovern, Malliotakis, Pingree, Fitzpatrick and Evans and Senators Booker, Marshall, Cassidy and Smith for their introduction of the Medically Tailored Home-Delivered Meals Program Pilot Act. This program will not only address the gap in access to medically tailored meals for older Americans and people with disabilities, but it will provide the data we need to make our health care system more efficient and patient centered. We look forward to working with these bipartisan champions, the Administration, and legislators on both sides of the aisle to advance this important bill,” said Alissa Wassung, Executive Director, Food Is Medicine Coalition.

“Older Americans face an urgent crisis of diet-related disease—sapping their well-being, vitality, and retirement savings. It’s time to reimagine our approach to health, and to recall the wisdom of the past, by integrating nourishing food into our national healthcare programs,” said Dariush Mozaffarian, Cardiologist and Director of the Food Is Medicine Institute, Tufts University.

Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), and Cory Booker (D-NJ) in introducing the legislation.

Last week, the group wrote a letter to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz, urging the agency to establish standardized billing codes for Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs) to help streamline reimbursements.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-hyde-smith-introduce-legislation-to-crack-down-on-unfair-trade-practices-protect-louisiana-shrimp-catfish-industries/,"Cassidy, Hyde-Smith Introduce Legislation to Crack Down on Unfair Trade Practices, Protect Louisiana Shrimp, Catfish Industries",2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) introduced the India Shrimp Tariff Act to protect Louisiana’s shrimp and catfish industries against India’s dumping of cheap shrimp and produce into U.S. markets.

“People come from all over to try Louisiana gumbo, jambalaya, and shrimp and grits. That’s because our shrimpers and catfish farmers meet high standards,” said Dr. Cassidy. “By leveling the playing field, this bill protects Louisiana seafood and the jobs that depend on it.”

“For too long Indian shrimp has been dumped on the U.S. market with minimal penalty or regulation, which has come at the expense of domestic shrimpers, processors, restaurants, and consumers. Senator Cassidy’s common-sense legislation will help put our domestic industry on a more level playing field, and I will work with him to move this bill forward for the benefit of Gulf Coast shrimpers and everyone who enjoy domestic shrimp,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.

Background

Last week, during a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing, Cassidy secured a commitment from President Trump’s Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury nominee Jonathan Greenstein to support Louisiana shrimp producers and oppose unfair trade practices hurting the state’s seafood industry.

In February, Cassidy and a group of Republican colleagues introduced the Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act to protect the Louisiana rice industry against dumping of cheap produce into U.S. markets from India and China.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-46-7-million-for-louisiana-airport-improvements-from-his-infrastructure-law/,Cassidy Announces $46.7 Million for Louisiana Airport Improvements from His Infrastructure Law,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana airports will receive a combined $46,681,737.00 in federal funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The funding comes through Cassidy’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and will support safety upgrades, runway extensions, drainage systems, and hangar construction at airports across the state.

“The airport is the first thing people see when visiting Louisiana,” said Dr. Cassidy. “With this funding, we are making our state more accessible to families, businesses, and visitors.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-over-122-million-for-calcasieu-sabine-marsh-restoration-project/,Cassidy Announces Over $122 Million for Calcasieu-Sabine Marsh Restoration Project,2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) will receive $122,112,519.00 to support the Calcasieu-Sabine Large-Scale Marsh and Hydrologic Restoration project. The investment will restore and protect natural resources, ecosystems, and coastal wetlands in the Cameron-Creole Watershed, while also supporting long-term economic health in the Lake Charles region.

“Southwest Louisiana still feels the effects of Hurricane Laura years later. Our coastline took a beating,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We secured this funding to restore marshland, strengthen homes and businesses, and keep Southwest Louisiana safe.”

The project will construct seven gravity drainage structures along the eastern rim of the existing Calcasieu Lake levee, improve up to 18 miles of conveyance channels to strengthen flow pathways across the marsh, and partner with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to create approximately 400 acres of new marsh using dredged material.This investment is designed to reduce flood stress and land loss in the Cameron-Creole Watershed, protecting communities, ports, and wildlife habitat in the Calcasieu-Sabine Basin.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-colleagues-recognize-national-day-of-remembrance-for-charlie-kirk/,"Cassidy, Colleagues Recognize National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) joined a resolution led by U.S. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) to designate October 14, 2025, as “National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk.”

“Charlie Kirk inspired millions of young people to engage thoughtfully in civic discourse and have a relationship with God. A day of remembrance will ensure his honorable legacy lives on for future generations,”said Dr. Cassidy.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2310,Kennedy’s Honoring Our Heroes Act Passes the House of Representatives,2025-09-17,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,John Kennedy,K000393,kennedy.house.gov,kennedy,https://kennedy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Legislation to Guarantee Burial Honors for U.S. Veterans Received Strong Bipartisan Support

Bill Now Heads to the Senate for Consideration

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives has passed Congressman Tim Kennedy’s legislation, H.R. 2721, the Honoring Our Heroes Act. If enacted into law, this legislation would correct a long-standing inequity in how the Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes veterans who have passed away. The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate for final passage.

(Congressman Kennedy’s remarks here.)

“As Members of Congress, we have a moral obligation to fully honor the heroes who fought for this country,” said Congressman Kennedy. “The families left behind are simply asking our government to properly recognize the bravery and dedication of their loved ones – Americans who were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we all hold dear.”

Under current federal law, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not provide government-issued headstones for veterans who died before November 1, 1990, leaving their families unable to secure this honor for their loved ones. Kennedy’s legislation establishes a seven-year pilot program to allow eligible family members to request a VA headstone for veterans who died on or after December 7, 1941, when America entered World War II, provided they have not already received a marker, medallion, or headstone.

For decades, loved ones of veterans who served their country honorably have faced the painful reality of being denied this final recognition because of an arbitrary cutoff date. By expanding eligibility, the Honoring Our Heroes Act ensures that families will now have the opportunity to see their relatives remembered with the same dignity and respect as their fellow veterans.

Passage of the bill marks an important step toward fairness for military families in Western New York and nationwide. It guarantees that service is honored consistently, regardless of when a veteran passed away, and it gives families the chance to properly memorialize those who answered the call to serve. For the thousands of families who have waited years for this recognition, this legislation represents not just policy change, but a long-overdue acknowledgment of sacrifice and service.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-34-8-million-for-louisiana-disaster-recovery-safer-roads-economic-development/,"Cassidy Announces $34.8 Million for Louisiana Disaster Recovery, Safer Roads, Economic Development",2025-09-17,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,LA,Bill Cassidy,C001075,www.cassidy.senate.gov,cassidy,https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/?jsf=jet-engine:press-list,scraper,"Funding AmountRecipientProject Description$4,056,819.12St. James Parish HospitalThis grant provides federal funding for permanent repairs to the hospital and medical plaza following Hurricane Ida.$2,722,755.38Jefferson Parish – Water & Drainage DepartmentsThis grant provides federal funding for emergency pumping and generator operations to protect water and drainage systems during Hurricane Ida.$2,506,500.00Jefferson Parish Public School SystemThis grant provides federal funding for emergency mold remediation and air stabilization at school facilities following Hurricane Ida.$1,763,210.02Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal DistrictThis grant provides federal funding for replacement of the City Docks Transit Shed 7 warehouse building following Hurricane Laura.$1,727,040.01Plaquemines ParishThis grant provides federal funding for eligible loan and interest costs tied to permanent disaster repairs following Hurricane Ida.$1,676,972.28St. Charles Parish (Management Costs)This grant provides federal funding for management costs related to Hurricane Ida recovery.$1,578,919.95Town of Golden MeadowThis grant provides federal funding for permanent repairs to recreational facilities and mitigation following Hurricane Ida.$1,563,985.91The Society Of The Roman Catholic Church Of The Diocese Of Lake CharlesThis grant provides federal funding for the lease and placement of temporary modular classrooms, offices, and restrooms at St. Louis High School in Lake Charles following Hurricane Laura to serve students and staff until permanent replacements are completed.$1,496,684.55Jefferson Parish – Sanitary System (Hurricane Francine)This grant provides federal funding for emergency sanitary system pumping and temporary lift-station support during Hurricane Francine.$1,600,548.33St. Charles Parish Hospital Service DistrictThis grant provides federal funding for permanent repairs to St. Charles Parish Hospital Service District following Hurricane Ida.$1,428,700.43Livingston Parish Public SchoolsThis grant provides federal funding for temporary modular classrooms and campus facilities at Denham Springs Elementary following the 2016 floods.$1,154,024.46Chennault International Airport Authority (Management Costs)This grant provides federal funding for management costs related to Hurricane Laura recovery.$1,071,417.51Lafourche Parish Hospital Service District #1This grant provides federal funding for permanent restorations, including roof replacements and interior repairs, following Hurricane Ida.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z