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

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

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

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

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

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

Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/video-blackburn-hassan-introduce-improving-travel-for-families-act,"VIDEO: Blackburn, Hassan Introduce Improving Travel for Families Act",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Ahead of Christmas travel, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video announcing the introduction of her Improving Travel for Families Act with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) to allow young children to accompany their parents through Global Entry. This will provide flexibility to help families traveling internationally with children.

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

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

BACKGROUND:

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

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

IMPROVING TRAVEL FOR FAMILIES ACT:

The Improving Travel for Families Act would:

Allow children under the age of 11 who are not a member of Global Entry to go through the Global Entry lanes with their parent or legal guardian who is enrolled in the program; and",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/crime/blackburn-ossoff-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff-passes-senate,"Blackburn, Ossoff Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Passes Senate",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the Senate passed the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates:

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

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

BACKGROUND:

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

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

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

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

THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT:

The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act would require:

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

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

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

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

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

RELATED:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BACKGROUND:

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

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

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

SEMI INVESTMENT ACT:

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

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

Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-marshall-introduce-bill-to-reduce-tax-burden-on-social-security-benefits-for-seniors,"Blackburn, Marshall Introduce Bill to Reduce Tax Burden on Social Security Benefits for Seniors",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes (RETIREES FIRST) Act to lower the tax burden on Social Security benefits for seniors.

“Retirees across the country depend on Social Security, especially after enduring the record-high inflation of the last four years,” said Senator Blackburn. “This bill would cut taxes on seniors’ benefits, helping them keep more of their hard-earned money.”

“President Trump promised to protect Social Security and deliver relief to senior citizens by cutting taxes on these benefits. This simple action will put more money in seniors' pockets, correct a fundamental flaw in our tax system, and support President Trump’s economic agenda and a promise made to the American people: No Tax on Social Security,” said Senator Marshall.

BACKGROUND:

Historically, Social Security benefits were entirely exempt from the federal income tax, reflecting the understanding that these benefits were funded by workers’ own earnings.

In 1983, Congress passed legislation that taxed benefits for higher-income retirees to strengthen program solvency. However, the measure was only intended to impact a small portion of households.

Current exemption thresholds—$25,000 for single filers and $32,000 for married filers—have not been adjusted for inflation since their creation, causing “bracket creep” that increasingly taxes middle-income retirees.

Today, nearly 56% of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits, compared to less than 10% in 1984, with this figure projected to rise further.

Many retirees rely on Social Security as their primary source of income, but the added tax burden reduces their quality of life, especially as inflation erodes the value of their benefits.

RETIREES FIRST ACT:

This RETIREES FIRST Act would:

Eliminate Taxes on Benefits for Most Retirees: Raise the provisional income threshold to $34,000 for single filers and $68,000 for married filers, exempting most middle-class retirees from paying taxes on their Social Security benefits.

Keep Exemptions Aligned with Rising Costs: Ensure the new thresholds are updated annually to prevent bracket creep, preserving the value of exemptions and shielding retirees from inflation’s impact.

Simplify Tax Rules and Eliminate the Marriage Penalty: Maintain a single 85% inclusion rate for benefits exceeding the new thresholds, simplifying the filing process and reducing confusion for seniors. Additionally, the bill would eliminate the substantial tax penalty currently imposed on married retirees who both receive benefits.

Protect Long-Term Solvency by Cutting Bureaucratic Waste: Redirect funds from inefficient government spending in the non-defense, non-veterans, non-homeland security discretionary appropriations accounts to offset revenue reductions, safeguarding the Social Security and Medicare trust funds while prioritizing retirees.

Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/military/blackburn-secures-tennessee-priorities-in-2025-national-defense-bill,Blackburn Secures Tennessee Priorities in 2025 National Defense Bill,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after securing vital wins for Tennessee in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the Senate yesterday and will soon be signed into law:

“In the face of formidable threats from Communist China, Iran, and Russia, this year’s national defense bill will help safeguard U.S. national security and support our men and women in uniform,” said Senator Blackburn. “Tennessee is home to tens of thousands of active-duty servicemembers, and this legislation will enhance their defense capabilities, support the development of new technology, and strengthen cybersecurity efforts in the Volunteer State.”

KEY TENNESSEE PRIORITIES:

Support the Pathfinder Program, which is developing technological solutions for real-world Army challenges at Vanderbilt University and in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Support the development of advanced materials for hypersonic vehicles, including at Arnold Air Force Base and the University of Tennessee Space Institute

Support modernization efforts at production and support facilities, including at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant

Continue to support the construction of the Uranium Processing Facility at the Y-12 National Security Complex

Support Unmanned Arial Systems (UAS) test capabilities, unmanned underwater vehicle experiments, and other research projects, including through the partnership between the University of Memphis and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division on President’s Island in Memphis, Tennessee

Support advanced materials manufacturing research, including ongoing research between the University of Tennessee, Knoxville,Army Research Lab, andOak Ridge National Laboratory

Support the Nonproliferation Stewardship Program (NSP), creating a workforce of nuclear subject matter experts through Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Y-12 National Security Complex

Support the classified additive manufacturing partnership between the Air Force Research Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory for future Air Force assets, including at Arnold Air Force Base

Support cybersecurity for autonomous vehicles research, including at Tennessee Tech University

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-announces-tennessee-priorities-in-water-resources-bill,Blackburn Announces Tennessee Priorities in Water Resources Bill,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after securing important projects for Tennessee in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act, which passed the Senate this week and will soon be signed into law:

“Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene across East Tennessee, rebuilding our communities and reassessing flood risk is extremely important across the entire state,” said Senator Blackburn. “This year’s Water Resources Development Act will allow the dredging and maintenance of Pidgeon Harbor in Memphis, enabling the continued growth of the industrial area and supporting the city as the Logistics Hub of America. It will also improve our state’s flood risk management to help us better respond to future natural disasters and strengthen wastewater infrastructure to support the development of Blue Oval City.”

KEY TENNESSEE PRIORITIES:

Authorization of federal maintenance and dredging of Pidgeon Harbor navigation channel in Memphis

Feasibility study for flood risk management in Nashville

Feasibility study for water supply support, including evaluation of Nolichucky River capabilities in Greene County

Expedited completion of the Kentucky Lock and Dam navigation project

$35 million for wastewater infrastructure and water supply infrastructure in Tipton County

$50 million for water and wastewater infrastructure in Tipton, Haywood, and Fayette Counties

Mandated coordination with stakeholders to address the dredging needs of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in Mississippi and Alabama",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/women/senators-blackburn-and-gillibrand-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-remove-the-tax-penalty-on-settlements-awards-and-judgments-paid-to-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment,"Senators Blackburn And Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Remove The Tax Penalty On Settlements, Awards, And Judgments Paid To Survivors Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would remove the federal tax penalty on settlements, awards, and judgments paid to survivors of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Current law exempts payments for damages due to physical and emotional injuries from physical injury cases from taxation. However, payments from sexual harassment and sexual assault lawsuits are taxed as income unless the survivor can prove that they received physical injuries, such as broken bones or bruises, during the incident. This can cause uncertainty in some cases regarding whether settlements from sexual assault or sexual harassment cases are taxed or not, causing additional anxiety for survivors.

“Survivors of sexual assault and sexual harassment should not be forced to pay taxes on compensation they receive as a result of the crime,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act would ensure these courageous survivors do not have to bear the cost of unjust financial penalties.”

“It is unacceptable to force survivors of sexual assault and harassment to pay taxes on the compensation they rightfully deserve,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act is commonsense legislation that will eliminate this tax burden, allowing survivors to focus on healing in the wake of their trauma. I am proud to introduce this legislation, and I will continue fighting to ensure that survivors of sexual assault and harassment are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

Blackburn and Gillibrand’s introduction of the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act follows the introduction of the same legislation in the House of Representatives by Reps. Lois Frankel (D-Fla.) and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) in August. The bill is endorsed by the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence and Lift Our Voices.

“Survivors of sexual harassment and assault deserve fair treatment under the law,” said Representative Frankel. “It is unacceptable for a woman who has been raped, who endures immense pain and trauma, or who had to quit her job to escape harassment, to face further tax burdens on the compensation she rightfully deserves. This bill ensures survivors receive equal treatment regarding their payments.”

“Survivors of assault have already endured the unimaginable; they should not face tax penalties on monetary settlements obtained in their pursuit of justice. This commonsense bill closes an unfair loophole in our tax code by exempting settlements and judgments from sexual harassment or assault claims from income taxes, aligning the tax treatment of these settlements with physical injury settlements and ensuring survivors are not further penalized,” said Congresswoman Tenney.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-help-rescue-more-children-from-violence-by-recording-child-protective-services-interviews/6583f60b-5203-4a53-8e5e-6edfd577b4f2,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Help Rescue More Children from Violence by Recording Child Protective Services Interviews",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Generate Recordings of All Child protective Interviews Everywhere (GRACIE) Act, which would incentivize states to require the recording of all Child Protective Services (CPS) interviews with children and adults. Modernizing CPS interview protocols would increase the likelihood that child trafficking victims will be identified and removed from dangerous situations, including sex and labor trafficking, domestic violence, physical and emotional abuse, and other forms of violence.

“Children are often silenced by their abusers, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure that does not happen,” said Senator Blackburn. “The GRACIE Act would help give more children a voice, increase domestic violence reporting, and strengthen the foster care system.”

“We can never do enough to support vulnerable children in Georgia and across the country,” said Senator Ossoff. “Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this new bipartisan bill to strengthen transparency in State child protective agencies and help States better fund their operations.”

BACKGROUND:

In the U.S., 37.4% of children will be interviewed by CPS at some point in their childhood. These initial interviews can be traumatic, so we must do everything we can to ensure transparency and accountability during the process. CPS is the gateway to the foster care system, and approximately 60% of U.S. domestic child sex trafficking victims have engaged with the foster care system. Many of them undergo multiple interviews without one CPS staffer identifying them as child trafficking victims or removing them from real-time trafficking violence.

CPS has a history of distorting the testimony of children who are trying to speak out about abuse and trafficking. As a result, children can remain in abusive and dangerous situations. CPS interview protocols are broken, and mandating all CPS interviews be recorded would be a good first step toward fixing this broken system.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has required recordings of all interrogations for nearly a decade, and state law enforcement departments often require police body cameras. Similar accountability measures are long overdue in the child protection space. It is imperative that federal and state legislation require at least audio recording–if not video recording, too–of all CPS interviews.

THE GRACIE ACT:

The GRACIE Act would create a grant program within the DOJ to award grants to states that require the recording of all CPS interviews with children and adults. This legislation includes provisions to protect the privacy and security of those recordings, so they are not shared with anyone outside of a law enforcement investigation. They would also only be retained for the amount of time needed to deal with the case.

ENDORSEMENTS:

This legislation is endorsed by Street Grace, No Trafficking Zones, Pearl at the Mailbox, The Foundation United, Rights for Girls, and 3Strands Global.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/national-security/blackburn-urges-dod-to-protect-u-s-airspace-national-security-following-ongoing-drone-sightings,Blackburn Urges DOD to Protect U.S. Airspace & National Security Following Ongoing Drone Sightings,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Lloyd Austin regarding the ongoing drone sightings across the Eastern United States over the past several weeks.

In the letter, Senator Blackburn requested more information on the DOD’s assessments of the drone sightings, what counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems are currently deployed to address these threats, and how the DOD is coordinating with federal, state, and local authorities.

Drone Sightings Appear to Be Part of Broader Foreign Surveillance Pattern of U.S. Activity

“I write to urgently raise concerns regarding the ongoing drone sightings across the Eastern United States, which have been widely reported over the past several weeks. These incidents, which seem to involve clusters of drones appearing near critical infrastructure and sensitive areas, represent a growing threat to our national security that demands immediate and serious attention. The reports of drone activity appear to be part of a broader pattern of foreign surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts, including the 2023 Chinese spy balloon incident and the recent Chinese-backed Salt Typhoon hack targeting our telecommunications networks. These actions demonstrate a clear willingness from adversarial nations to utilize unconventional technologies to surveil, gather intelligence, and intimidate.”

Blackburn Urges DOD to Take Clear and Immediate Action to Send a Strong Message to Any U.S. Adversaries Seeking to Undermine National Security

“The persistence of credible sightings indicates a significant and evolving risk. The drone sightings across the East Coast should be viewed within this context as part of an ongoing, multidimensional threat to our national security. I strongly urge the Department of Defense to take all necessary steps – up to and including military action – to ensure the protection of our airspace and the security of the American people. A clear and immediate response will not only mitigate the current threat but also send a message to any foreign power seeking to undermine the security and safety of the United States.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-prevent-supply-chain-disruptions-protect-american-producers-pocketbooks-set-to-pass-in-end-of-year-package,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Prevent Supply Chain Disruptions, Protect American Producers & Pocketbooks, Set to Pass in End of Year Package",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Representatives Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), secured a package of provisions based on the bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act in the must-pass Continuing Resolution. The package authorizes the U.S. Department of Commerce to strengthen American supply chains for critical industries and emerging technologies by working with the private sector and other U.S. government partners to anticipate and prevent future supply chain disruptions before they happen. In the process, it will also identify opportunities to grow manufacturing capacity and jobs, and reduce costs for American consumers.

“Strengthening supply chains is essential to ensuring that groceries, fuel, household products, and every other consumer product is accessible and affordable,” said Sen. Blackburn. “To achieve a strong, resilient, supply chain, we must have a coordinated, national strategy that decreases dependence on our adversaries, like Communist China, and leverages American ingenuity. By establishing a supply chain resiliency program at the Department of Commerce, the U.S. government can better coordinate with private sector partners, identify risks, and increase our competitiveness.”

“Strengthening our supply chains is essential to ensuring that critical goods remain accessible and affordable,” Sen. Cantwell said. “And we need strong, secure supply chains to keep our country competitive in the global race for emerging technologies. This bill will strengthen American manufacturing jobs, keep our store shelves stocked and lower costs for American families.""

Senators Cantwell and Blackburn introduced the Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act (S. 4375) in May 2024. The House companion legislation, introduced by Reps. Bucshon and Blunt Rochester (H.R. 6571), overwhelmingly passed the House the same month.

“The past few years have revealed significant weaknesses in the supply chains that Americans depend on, affecting everything from manufacturers and healthcare providers to our warfighters. Now more than ever, we must support American business seeking to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on unstable or adversarial trading partners such as China,” said Dr. Bucshon. “The inclusion of key provisions from The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act will help bolster our economy by enabling us to proactively address potential disruptions and respond effectively when they arise.”

“Strong, functional, and secure supply chains are critical not just to our businesses and workers, but to our national security. I am thrilled that provisions from our bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act, legislation I championed alongside Dr. Bucshon in the House, is set to pass in the end of year package and be on its way to President Biden’s desk for his signature,” said Rep. Blunt Rochester, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “The pandemic exposed the need for us to shore up our supply chains, and in the years since, I’ve heard directly from Delawareans about how shortages of critical goods have impacted them, their families, and their businesses. It’s why I’ve been laser-focused on building bipartisan and bicameral support for this legislation, so we can put a national strategy in place to anticipate shocks before they occur, ultimately creating more good-paying jobs and lowering costs for consumers in Delaware and across our nation.”

Geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters and the pandemic have highlighted the fragility of supply chains. These events can cause significant delays and shortages, impacting everything from consumer goods to critical medical supplies and driving up the costs of consumer goods. The U.S. is heavily reliant on single countries for critical supply chain segments, including manufacturing components, critical minerals, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This concentration poses a significant risk of disruption. Most U.S. companies currently lack full visibility into their supply chains, with estimates suggesting that more than 90 percent do not have complete transparency throughout their entire supply chain.

The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act: Section-by-Section",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-joint-statement-on-house-leadership-s-refusal-to-allow-a-vote-on-the-kids-online-safety-act,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Joint Statement on House Leadership’s Refusal to Allow a Vote on the Kids Online Safety Act",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the status of passing the Kids Online Safety Act in the 118th Congress:

“While the House has refused to take up the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, countless children and teens have died from suicide, mental health disorders, predation, bullying, and drug use fostered and fueled by Big Tech.

One of these victims, Jesse Harrington, was a 15-year-old boy who wanted to be a firefighter and died by suicide in October after becoming addicted to Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, while the House sat on its hands at the behest of Mark Zuckerberg. The House’s active obstruction of the Kids Online Safety Act will tragically result in the deaths of even more children like Jesse.

To be clear: the blockade against safeguards and accountability was about padding Big Tech’s financial bottom line, not principle. For nearly four years, we have worked with more than 240 organizations and colleagues across the political spectrum to craft bipartisan legislation to protect children online from Big Tech abuses – legislation that passed the Senate on a 91-3 vote. Yet falsehoods crafted in Silicon Valley boardrooms and parroted by Washington politicians, along with millions of dollars spent along the way, held up KOSA in the House to advance Meta and Google's goal of profiting off our children.

We are thankful to Senate leadership, most especially Senators Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, John Thune, Ted Cruz, and Maria Cantwell and the powerful bipartisan coalition that supported KOSA and continues to believe it is necessary. We are grateful for the many free speech advocates who saw through Big Tech's lies and smokescreen, including Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, and Donald Trump, Jr. It was House Republican leadership who chose not to move this bill forward despite overwhelming support.

We will continue the strongly bipartisan fight on the Kids Online Safety Act for the young people and parents across the country that have spoken up and demanded reforms from Big Tech. The American public deserves to know that their families and kids’ lives are more important than Meta and Google’s profits.” – Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/veterans/blackburn-demands-accountability-from-secretary-mcdonough-on-mountain-home-va-scandal,Blackburn Demands Accountability from Secretary McDonough on Mountain Home VA Scandal,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough regarding the disturbing reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate workplace conduct involving multiple employees at the Mountain Home Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC).

Senator Blackburn requested an update on the status of the ongoing investigation, how many allegations have been made against the Mountain Home VAMC in recent years, what corrective actions will be taken, and how many employees have been terminated or reassigned as a result of the investigation.

Mountain Home VAMC Is Subject of Ongoing Investigation on Reports of Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, and Inappropriate Workplace Conduct

“I write to inquire about the ongoing investigation into allegations of misconduct at the James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Mountain Home VAMC) in Johnson City, Tennessee. As you know, your staff briefed me regarding disturbing reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate workplace conduct involving multiple employees at the Mountain Home VAMC.”

Such Disgusting Misconduct Should Never Have Been Allowed to Occur

“It is beyond reprehensible that no individual has been held meaningfully accountable for their actions. Equally troubling are the leadership and oversight failures that may have allowed such misconduct to occur. The absence of clear answers, coupled with media reports, has caused unnecessary distress among the Mountain Home veteran community. The VA must act urgently to address these concerns. Transparency and accountability are not optional—they are essential to restoring trust and ensuring my constituents feel that they can expect this facility to provide them with the highest standard of care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issue/technology/blackburn-on-fox-business-we-have-the-votes-to-pass-kosa-in-the-house,Blackburn on Fox Business: ‘We Have the Votes to Pass KOSA in the House’,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today on Fox Business’ Varney & Co., U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) urged House Republican leadership to call a vote on the Kids Online Safety Act, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate 91-3 in July. Last week, free speech champion Elon Musk endorsed the new negotiated text as well as X CEO Linda Yaccarino and Donald Trump, Jr.

Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks about KOSA on Fox Business.

STUART VARNEY: “House lawmakers have just weeks to pass the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act before the new Congress is sworn in. The Senate has already passed this bill with overwhelming majority. This bill would limit who kids can talk to, limit infinite scrolling and notifications, make it easy for kids to delete data, and a whole lot more… Are there enough votes to get this thing passed now?”

SENATOR BLACKBURN: “Yes, indeed. In the House, we have enough votes to get it passed. It is a matter of the Leader and the Speaker in the House actually putting it on the floor and calling a vote. There’s been all these falsehoods about the bill, and we have worked to tighten up protections on free speech. We have addressed some of the ‘duty of care.’ There is absolutely no reason for the bill not to move forward.”

“Stuart, when Elon Musk has signed off on this bill – he is truly the free speech champion. He bought X to make certain that free speech was protected. And he and Linda Yaccarino, who is the CEO of X, have both tweeted in support. Donald Trump, Jr. has tweeted in support. We need to make certain we put protections in place for our children in the virtual space just like we have them in the physical space.”

RELATED:

Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on New ‘X’ Negotiated KOSA Text",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-tenney-introduce-doge-acts-to-make-federal-government-more-efficient-and-slash-wasteful-spending,"Blackburn, Tenney Introduce “DOGE Acts” to Make Federal Government More Efficient and Slash Wasteful Spending",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and U.S. Representative Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) introduced a package of bills known as the “DOGE Acts” to hold the federal government accountable for managing taxpayer dollars. The DOGE Acts coincide with President-elect Trump’s recently announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which will be led by entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy.

“The American people have had enough of outsized bureaucracy and wasteful government spending. The DOGE Acts are the first step to achieving government efficiency by requiring federal employees to get back in the office, moving federal agencies into the heartland of America, cutting bloated federal spending across the board, and freezing federal hiring and salaries until we can rightsize the federal government,” said Senator Blackburn.

“Under President Trump's leadership and a Republican-controlled Congress, we are determined to cut wasteful government spending and reduce costs for hardworking Americans. Congress is ready to collaborate with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to rein in bloated budgets, relocate federal agencies out of Washington, DC, reform outdated bureaucracies, and ensure bureaucrats actually work for their pay. The DOGE Acts embody these priorities, serving as a bold first step in advancing the incoming Trump Administration's 'Make America Efficient Again' agenda,” said Representative Tenney.

THE DOGE ACTS:

The DOGE Acts include the separate pieces of legislation below:

The Federal Freeze Act would help address out-of-control spending and save taxpayer dollars by implementing a one-year freeze on increases in federal civilian employees’ salaries, directing federal agency heads to establish a cap on the number of workers that can be employed over a period of three years, and decreasing the number of employees at federal agencies. This legislation would exempt certain employees deemed necessary to serve the interests of law enforcement, national security, public safety, and public health services. Click here for bill text.

The Commission to Relocate the Federal Bureaucracy Act would decentralize the power held by unelected bureaucrats in Washington D.C. by establishing a plan to relocate non-national security related agencies to states across the country based on financial efficiency, existing infrastructure, and related industries. Click here for bill text.

The Federal Employee Performance and Accountability Act would establish a performance-based pay structure that bolsters government efficiency by incentivizing high performance among federal employees, exempting agencies deemed necessary for national security or public safety. Click here for bill text.

The Stopping Home Office Work’s Unproductive Problems (SHOW UP) Act would require federal agencies to return to pre-pandemic telework levels within 30 days and would prevent federal agencies from permanently expanding telework without submitting to Congress telework plans certified by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This legislation passed the House last year. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-warner-delbene-pfluger-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-u-s-immersive-technology-leadership,"Blackburn, Warner, DelBene, Pfluger Introduce Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Immersive Technology Leadership",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) along with Representatives Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) introduced the United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act to establish an advisory panel tasked with creating a national immersive technology strategy:

“We need to stay two steps ahead of our adversaries when it comes to applying immersive technology in American industries and stimulating economic growth,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act would make certain we can compete with adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party and safeguard national security as virtual reality and augmented reality become more prevalent on the world stage.”

“The global technology landscape is rapidly changing. In order to take full advantage of the possibilities of XR, remain competitive globally, and protect our national interests, it’s crucial that we have industry and government leaders working together on the same page. This legislation will help to do just that by creating a national strategy for XR,” said Senator Warner.

“We cannot allow ourselves to be left behind in the burgeoning XR field,” said Rep. DelBene. “As our world becomes increasingly technological, it is crucial that we prepare to compete effectively on the global stage while protecting our interests. This legislation will help us catch up to other global leaders and regain our foothold in creating national standards.”

“Immersive Technology is an essential technological tool utilized by thousands of Americans, businesses, and our military for enhanced simulation and training capabilities. Recently, China has been aggressively investing in XR technology, posing a potential threat to our economic and national security interests,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Our legislation will ensure the United States maintains global leadership through a national strategy in this emerging technology.”

BACKGROUND:

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), collectively known as immersive technology (XR), allow us to blend the digital and physical worlds into one integrated experience. From automatically generated closed captions of live conversations for the hearing impaired to creating personalized, hands-on training modules for students, the benefits of XR are limitless.

Despite being home to some of the world’s largest XR content and hardware producers, the U.S. lags behind other countries in creating a clear roadmap for applying them to commercial and personal use. Already, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and China have strategies that allow them to embrace immersive technologies. The U.S. is relinquishing its role on the international stage to guide the creation of XR standards without a strategy.

UNITED STATES LEADERSHIP IN IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY ACT:

The United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act would:

Direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to create an advisory panel to advise the president on how to utilize XR in commerce, trade, and economic competitiveness, in coordination with relevant Congressional committees.

Direct the advisory panel to study the state of XR and the effects of XR on our national security.

Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/immigration/video-blackburn-calls-on-senate-judiciary-committee-to-pass-the-clear-act,VIDEO: Blackburn Calls on Senate Judiciary Committee to Pass the CLEAR Act,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) called on Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) to take up and pass the CLEAR Act, which would ensure state and local law enforcement officials can help the federal government deport criminal illegal immigrants from the U.S. This hearing included testimony from Patty Morin whose daughter, Rachel Morin, was allegedly murdered last year by an illegal immigrant from El Salvador.

Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

Blackburn: Open-Border Policies Are Not Compassionate

“This open-border policy that we’ve seen is not a compassionate policy. I’ve talked to people that work with human trafficking and sex trafficking, and what is happening to women and children is abhorrent, and we are all aware of that. Mr. Chairman, I appreciated your remark that we should deport those that are truly a danger to Americans. I think that’s accurate. I don’t think anyone would disagree with that.”

Blackburn Calls on Senate Judiciary Committee to Pass the CLEAR Act

“We’ve all seen the uptick in violent crimes – such as Ms. Morin and her family have experienced – and this is the reason I re-introduced my CLEAR Act this year, which would enable local law enforcement when they apprehend someone who is in the country illegally to detain them and then call on ICE to deport them. And then the federal government have to repay that local law enforcement agency for what they’ve spent in that apprehension, that detention, and we should pass this bill today. That would be a good thing for this committee to be doing this last week. Pull it up, put it on the hotline, and run it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-cortez-masto-probe-doj-on-match-fixing-risk-ahead-of-2026-fifa-world-cup-and-2028-olympics,"Blackburn, Cortez Masto Probe DOJ on Match-Fixing Risk Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri on the growing risk of match-fixing in the United States and its potential ties to organized crime around the world.

Match-fixing not only threatens the game, but is often connected to human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. The Senators are seeking answers from the DOJ on U.S. enforcement against match-fixing and the steps federal law enforcement is taking to protect the integrity of sports against those running illegal offshore sports books.

American Law Enforcement Must Be Equipped to Combat Organized Crime and Match-Fixing as U.S. Prepares to Host FIFA World Cup and Olympics

“We write to you today to express our unease at the growing risk of match-fixing in the United States and its potential ties to organized crime around the world. As the United States plans to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics—two of the biggest sporting events in the world—we must ensure American law enforcement has every tool at their disposal to protect the integrity of the games and fight against organized crime.”

Organized Crime Efforts Are Becoming More Sophisticated and Lucrative

“Organized crime has long manipulated sporting events, and their efforts are only getting more sophisticated. Match-fixing does not simply pose threats to the integrity of the game, but it can be connected to violent crime—including human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. These criminals have seized on illicit sports betting and match-fixing as a vehicle for laundering money and making incredible profits. Foreign, illegal online betting markets have become the perfect venues for these schemes, with studies showing that up to 10% of organized crime revenue is made from sports bets. Experts estimated in 2014 that $140 billion is laundered annually through illegal and unregulated sport betting, an amount that has undoubtedly grown. While the most prominent examples of sports corruption have been international, there is risk of

match-fixing in this country... Given this risk, it is important to ensure the United States government has every possible tool to keep our sports safe for players and fans alike.”

Match-Fixing Exploits the Vulnerable, Harms Athletes, and Corrupts Athletics – We Must Bring Transnational Criminals to Justice

“When similar concerns were raised in countries around the world, their legislative bodies acted to make match-fixing a specific criminal act to address the full scope of match-fixing behavior and give their judicial and law enforcement systems the clarity and tools needed to bring these transnational criminals to justice. Sport brings the world together, and we must fight to protect its integrity against the onslaught from criminals who exploit the vulnerable, target athletes for harassment, and corrupt the globe’s best traditions. The United States has one of the most vibrant sporting communities in the world, and it is imperative we support our athletes—from little league teams to collegiate stars to professional players.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-statement-on-new-x-negotiated-kosa-text,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on New ‘X’ Negotiated KOSA Text",2024-12-07,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement after X CEO Linda Yaccarino announced updated KOSA bill text to further safeguard freedom of speech for minors online.

“Led by X, the new changes made to the Kids Online Safety Act strengthen the bill while safeguarding free speech online and ensuring it is not used to stifle expression,” said Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal. “These changes should eliminate once and for all the false narrative that this bill would be weaponized by unelected bureaucrats to censor Americans. We thank Elon and Linda for their bold leadership and commitment to protecting children online and for helping us get this bill across the finish line this Congress. We appreciate that this endorsement and revised text reflects their publicly stated goal of furthering free speech without fear of censorship. We reiterate X’s call to pass KOSA by the end of the year – it is clear that this legislation has overwhelming support from Congress.”

BACKGROUND:

You can view the revised bill text, including changes negotiated by X, here.

These changes were made to further make clear that KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet, and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from.

The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral.

RELATED:

Blackburn Announces Growing Conservative Momentum for the Kids Online Safety Act

Tennessee AG Leads 31 State Attorneys General in Urging Congress to Pass Blackburn’s Kids Online Safety Act",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/immigration/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-crack-down-on-fentanyl-trafficking-dangerous-counterfeits-and-imports-made-with-forced-labor,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Crack Down on Fentanyl Trafficking, Dangerous Counterfeits, and Imports Made with Forced Labor",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Detection and Exclusion of Negligent, Illicit, and Extralegal Deliveries (DENIED) Act to crack down on fentanyl trafficking, protect Americans from unsafe counterfeits, and prevent bad actors from importing products made with forced labor into the United States by exploiting U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) screening process:

“Foreign criminals and shady businesses exploit vulnerabilities in our trade system to import products made with forced labor, slip counterfeit goods into U.S. markets, and smuggle drugs across the southern border,” said Senator Blackburn. “We need to strengthen efforts to prevent bad actors from importing unethical goods, and our DENIED Act would combat the fentanyl epidemic, protect U.S. intellectual property, and counter forced labor practices around the world.”

“Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this bipartisan bill to strengthen enforcement against imports tainted by forced labor and illegal trade practices,” said Senator Ossoff.

BACKGROUND:

De minimis entry permits imports valued under $800 to enter the United States duty-free through a streamlined inspection process, allowing CBP to focus its resources on higher-risk shipments.

While most businesses follow the rules, some have exploited the de minimis process to import products made with forced labor, especially from regions like Xinjiang, China. This allows them to bypass critical inspections and undercut companies that adhere to ethical standards.

Earlier this year, Senator Blackburn sent a letter to U.S. Treasury Department Secretary Janet Yellen raising concerns about the Biden-Harris administration’s failure to fully enforce the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA).

In addition, criminals are using the de minimis process to smuggle drugs like fentanyl and its precursor chemicals into the United States, avoiding detection by shipping small packages and fueling the ongoing opioid crisis.

In 2023 alone, CBP seized over 27,000 pounds of fentanyl – enough to kill over 6 billion people – yet many de minimis shipments go uninspected, allowing dangerous drugs to slip through undetected.

Counterfeit goods are also being imported through the de minimis process, stealing the innovative work of American businesses and endangering consumers with dangerous products like faulty electronics, fake pharmaceuticals, and substandard automotive parts.

DENIED ACT:

The DENIED Act would empower CBP to establish a new “Denied Parties List,” barring foreign companies that repeatedly aid or facilitate the import of forced-labor products, counterfeit goods, or illegal drugs from leveraging the de minimis process. This safeguard ensures that bad actors can no longer dodge inspections to flood the market with dangerous and unethical products.

The Treasury Secretary would be required to publish the Denied Parties List every 90 days, exposing companies banned from duty-free entry and detailing the reasons for their ban.

Entities added to the Denied Parties List would also be referred to the UFLPA Task Force, strengthening coordination among enforcement agencies and reaffirming America’s commitment to combating forced labor in China and around the world.

CBP, in coordination with the United States Postal Service, would be authorized to enhance data collection on de minimis imports, providing law enforcement with the tools they need to better target and crack down on unauthorized imports.

This legislation would also empower CBP to impose steep fines on violators, starting at $1,000 for the first offense and rising to $5,000 for repeat offenses, ensuring there are real consequences for breaking the law and deterring future abuses.

ENDORSEMENTS:

This legislation is endorsed by Shatterproof, the Uyghur Human Rights Project, the Campaign for Uyghurs, and the Citizen Power Initiatives for China.

“Shatterproof, a national nonprofit leading the fight against our nation’s addiction crisis, is grateful to Senators Blackburn and Ossoff for introducing the DENIED Act,” said Kevin Roy, Chief Public Policy Officer of Shatterproof. “Fentanyl-related deaths demand immediate action to stop the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into our country. This legislation enhances CBP’s capacity to combat illegal imports by closing smuggling loopholes and barring violators, including those trafficking fentanyl, from exploiting duty-free exemptions. Shatterproof calls on Congressional leadership to prioritize this critical issue.”

“Companies profiting from Uyghur forced labor are now on notice: you will be barred from direct-shipping access to U.S. consumers. Uyghurs are deeply grateful to Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator Jon Ossoff for this important bipartisan bill to stop complicity in the atrocities against our people,” said Omer Kanat, Executive Director, Uyghur Human Rights Project.

“The proposed measures to establish a ‘Denied Parties List’ and combat forced labor and unethical practices are critical steps in ensuring accountability and protecting the integrity of global supply chains. CFU would be honored to provide an endorsement for this initiative. We believe this Act not only strengthens safeguards against forced labor but also underscores the United States’ commitment to upholding human rights and ethical business practices,” said Rushan Abbas, Executive Director of Campaign for Uyghurs.

“I strongly endorse the DENIED Act authored by Senator Masha Blackburn (R, Tennessee) and Senator Jon Ossoff (D, Georgia). The Act is a crucial step toward safeguarding both human rights in China and American markets. By closing loopholes in the de minimis entry process, this bill ensures that importers who engage in unethical practices—especially the use of forced labor—cannot bypass critical inspections. The establishment of the Denied Parties List, paired with steep fines and accountability measures, sends a powerful message: America will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable populations or the undermining of ethical businesses. Strengthening our commitment to human dignity and a fair global trade system, the DENIED Act sets a good example of bi-partisan effort to help advance human rights in China while defending our American values and interests,” said Dr. Jianli (Doc) Yang, Founder and President, Citizen Power Initiatives for China.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/senate-passes-blackburn-hickenlooper-music-tourism-bill,"Senate Passes Blackburn, Hickenlooper Music Tourism Bill",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan American Music Tourism Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors:

“Tennesseans know a thing or two about the positive impact that music tourism has on the economy and culture,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Volunteer State is proud to be home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to enjoy – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. This bipartisan legislation promotes music tourism’s fast-growing industry, and I’m pleased the Senate took action to ensure fans from all over the world can celebrate the rich history of music for generations to come.”

“Colorado’s vibrant music scene attracts artists and fans from around the world,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our bipartisan bill will help our local music venues thrive and expand.”

ENDORSEMENTS:

This legislation is supported by the Recording Academy, the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International, the Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, the National Independent Venue Association, Tennessee Department of Tourism Development, Tennessee Entertainment Commission, Memphis Tourism, Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Overton Park Shell, Airbnb, Eventbrite, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum.

“The Recording Academy is pleased to support the American Music Tourism Act and applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their continued dedication to lifting up the music community. Music has long played an important role in our economy and culture. This bill will amplify the music community’s contributions to economic growth and increase understanding of music’s impact on the U.S. and the world,” said Todd Dupler, Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer of the Recording Academy.

“The Nashville Songwriters Association International is glad to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As owners of an iconic music venue, The Bluebird Café, we acutely understand the impact of music on tourism dollars. With the music tourism market expected to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032, and since the United States is one of the main beneficiaries of music tourism, it is essential that the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism identify and promote musical sites of significance,” said Bart Herbison, Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International.

“From the historic Grand Ole Opry to the legendary Telluride Bluegrass Festival, America’s music story comes alive at iconic venues and landmarks all across the country. We applaud Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for introducing the American Music Tourism Act, which will encourage even more music fans to experience the rich legacy of American music firsthand,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman & CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America.

“In Nashville, Memphis, and countless other communities across the country, a vibrant live music scene is an economic magnet that draws fans from around the globe. The American Music Tourism Act is an important piece of legislation that will help ensure live music remains a pillar of American culture and tourism, and we’d like to thank the Senator for her leadership on this issue,” said Sally Williams, President of Nashville Music and Business Strategy for Live Nation Entertainment.

“From rural communities to city centers, independent stages attract investment and visitors for the artists and professionals that put on shows and the restaurants, retail, and attractions around them. The American Music Tourism Act finally recognizes music tourism as a catalyst for economic development and ensures its growth is a national priority. We applaud Senators Marsha Blackburn and John Hickenlooper for aligning the nation’s tourism strategy with the venues and festivals across our country that the world travels to experience,” said Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association.

“As the proud home to world-renowned attractions like Graceland, Grand Ole Opry, Dollywood, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Tennessee's tourism industry thrives on our rich musical heritage. The American Music Tourism Act reflects our agency’s dedication to preserving this legacy and bolstering our state’s global music appeal. By championing our diverse creative talent and attractions, we believe this legislation can bolster economic growth and draw visitors seeking authentic American music experiences,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

“For decades, Tennessee has maintained its reputation as a mecca for music tourism attracting both domestic and global audiences alike. Our State’s uniquely positioned musical legacy has become a valuable tool in shaping cultural pride, economic growth, and community development across all grand divisions. The American Music Tourism Act promotes and supports our distinctive destinations and music heritage, preserving what makes Tennessee a truly exceptional place to visit,” said Bob Raines, Executive Director of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission.

“Music is Memphis’ primary travel motivator, as it brings in both domestic and international visitors year-round. Visitors from around the world choose Memphis as a vacation destination for our live music, musical attractions, as well as to see and learn about our talented musicians of the past, present and future. Tourism is currently a 6-billion-dollar industry for Memphis and Shelby County. The American Music Tourism Act will allow for the preservation of all areas of our music industry and will be essential to the sustainability and future of tourism,” said Kevin Kane, President and CEO of Memphis Tourism.

“Music tourism is of vital importance to Tennessee, but specifically to Pigeon Forge. Last year, more than eight million people visited our destination, many of whom came in search of musical entertainment. In addition to a highly successfully musical theater community, we are especially proud that Dolly Parton, one of the world’s most celebrated musicians and prolific songwriters, and her Dollywood theme park give so many visitors reasons to visit time and time again. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism has a vital role in promoting and increasing tourism for both domestic and international visitors. On behalf of Pigeon Forge and other Tennessee destinations that rely on music-seeking visitors, I encourage the Assistant Secretary to expand these efforts through the American Music Tourism Act,” said Leon Downey, Executive Director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism.

“The historic Overton Park Shell of Memphis, Tennessee is thrilled to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As stewards of our iconic venue which was home to Elvis Presley's first live performance in 1954, The Overton Park Shell acutely understands the impact of music on tourism dollars. Amplifying the work of cultural assets will have a ripple effect to the economic impact that these entities bring to our Country and the legacy of American music known worldwide,” said Natalie Wilson, Executive Director of the Overton Park Shell.

“We’ve seen firsthand how concerts have become a growing tourist attraction, driving travel demand to regions around the world. That’s why we are proud to support the American Music Tourism Act, which helps promote domestic tourism in the US and amplifies the positive economic impact of Airbnb guests seeking music experiences across the country,” said Mike Signer, North America Policy Director Airbnb.

“Eventbrite applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their American Music Tourism Act, bipartisan legislation consistent with Eventbrite’s commitment to live music and mission to bring the world together through shared experiences,” said Julia Hartz, Co-Founder, CEO, and Executive Chair Eventbrite.

“The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors the artists whose music connects us all. We share stories of the people, events, and songs that shape our world through digital content, innovative exhibits, live music, engaging programs, and our annual Induction Ceremony, and have welcomed nearly 15 million visitors from all 50 states and around the world to our Museum in Cleveland, Ohio. We support the American Music Tourism Act to reinforce our music community’s massive economic and emotional impact on the U.S. and beyond,” said Greg Harris, President & CEO, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum.

BACKGROUND:

Music tourism – both the act of visiting sites important to the history of American music culture and the act of traveling for current concerts and music festivals – is a vital industry for American culture and an economic driver for our communities.

Music tourism has emerged as a top travel trend, with the market forecasted to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032.

The United States, which boasts one of world’s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year, is one of the main beneficiaries of this international interest in music tourism.

The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism is uniquely positioned to identify and promote sites of musical significance.

AMERICAN TOURISM ACT:

Specifically, the American Music Tourism Act would:

Leverage the existing framework within the Department of Commerce to highlight and promote music tourism in the United States.

Require the Assistant Secretary to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors; and

Require a report to Congress on the successes and vulnerabilities of the Assistant Secretary’s goals to increase travel and tourism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/icymi-in-the-hill-senators-ramp-up-pressure-on-house-to-pass-online-safety-privacy-package-in-lame-duck-session,"ICYMI in The Hill: Senators Ramp up Pressure on House to Pass Online Safety, Privacy Package in Lame-Duck Session",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Earlier this week, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined a bipartisan group of legislators urging House Republican Leaders to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) package before the end of the year.

The legislation to protect children from increasing harms caused by social media has languished in the House for months after overwhelmingly passing the Senate, 91-3, in July. Read more about the Senators’ push to pass this legislation before the end of the year below.

Senators ramp up pressure on House to pass online safety, privacy package in lame-duck session

Miranda Nazzaro

The Hill

A group of bipartisan senators pushed House Republican leadership on Wednesday to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) before the end of the year as it remains stalled in the lower chamber.

In a letter sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), six senators with the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee asked the leaders to “put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote.

The KOSPA package, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in July, combines two measures, including the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and aims to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms.

The package also includes the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0). If passed, the measure would update the original COPPA from 1998 and add data privacy measures including the ban of targeted advertising to teens and kids online.

“We write today to state our support for protecting American children from the harms caused by social media and other online platforms,” the senators wrote. “While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms.”

“Federal law protecting children’s privacy has not kept up with technology. Further, current law does not protect the online privacy of teens aged 13-16,” the letter added.

Signatories on the letter included Commerce Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas), along with Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) — the coauthors of KOSA — and Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), the authors of COPPA 2.0.

The pressure comes with just weeks to go in the lame-duck session. KOSA and COPPA advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in September, but House leadership has mostly sidestepped whether the bills will be brought to the floor before the end of the year.

Members of both parties have expressed issues with the language of the Senate versions, for varied reasons.

Johnson told Punchbowl News last month he likes the concept of KOSA, though the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.”

Meanwhile, some lawmakers were concerned with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harm, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders.

The House version that advanced out of committee last month included amendments changing this provision.

The letter follows a series of other efforts from senators, namely Blackburn to push KOSA and COPPA past the finish line. The campaigns have included meetings between tech advocacy groups and members, along with parents of children who either died or were seriously harmed because of social media.

The Hill reached out to Johnson and Scalise’s offices for comment.

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/health-care/blackburn-kelly-introduce-bill-to-increase-primary-care-access-and-lower-costs-for-medicaid-recipients-in-rural-communities,"Blackburn, Kelly Introduce Bill to Increase Primary Care Access and Lower Costs for Medicaid Recipients in Rural Communities",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) introduced the Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act to grant state Medicaid programs the authority to explore and implement direct primary care arrangements for Medicaid beneficiaries. Key features of the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model include predictable costs, improved access, reduced administrative burden, and lower costs.

“Rural residents often experience worse health outcomes and higher hospital utilization compared to urban populations, and 78 of Tennessee’s 95 counties are rural – making it extremely important to improve primary care access for Medicaid recipients in these communities,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act would address disproportionate health care coverage in rural areas by providing states with greater flexibility to address primary care challenges within Medicaid populations.”

“Access to quality primary care is essential for the health and well-being of Arizonans,” said Senator Kelly. “By expanding care options for patients, this bill will allow providers to meaningfully address health needs and improve preventive care.”

BACKGROUND:

Primary care providers play a critical role in preventing serious health conditions, reducing emergency room utilization, improving patient outcomes, and potentially lowering overall healthcare costs. Studies consistently show that higher continuity of primary care, where patients maintain a long-term relationship with their primary care physician, leads to fewer hospital admissions.

However, Medicaid populations face unique challenges that exacerbate costs and strain provider capacity, including high emergency room utilization, disproportionate coverage in rural areas, and poorer outcomes in rural communities.

Access to primary care is especially limited in rural, low-income areas. The patient-to-physician ratio in rural areas is just 39.8 physicians per 100,000 people, compared to 53.3 per 100,000 in urban areas. The United States is projected to face a shortage of up to 55,200 primary care physicians by 2032. Expanding access to DPC can help address these workforce and cost challenges by empowering state Medicaid programs to innovate and improve care delivery.

DPC is an innovative health care delivery model that provides patients with unrestricted access to primary care services in exchange for a flat, predictable monthly fee. Unlike traditional fee-for-service models, DPC eliminates third-party billing for most primary care services, allowing physicians to focus on patient care rather than administrative requirements.

While DPC practices are primarily used by privately insured or self-pay patients, there is growing interest in adapting the model for Medicaid beneficiaries to improve access and outcomes, particularly in underserved areas.

MEDICAID PRIMARY CARE ENHANCEMENT ACT:

The Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act would clarify that state Medicaid programs have the authority to explore and implement direct primary care (DPC) arrangements for Medicaid beneficiaries.

The DPC model is a healthcare delivery approach in which patients pay a flat, monthly fee for access to primary care services, enabling predictable costs and potentially improving care coordination and outcomes.

By codifying this authority, the bill seeks to provide states with greater flexibility to address primary care access challenges within Medicaid populations.

Click herefor bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/news-bipartisan-senate-leaders-urge-house-gop-to-stand-up-to-tech-companies-protect-children-from-social-media-harms-pass-kids-online-privacy-legislation-before-end-of-year,"NEWS: Bipartisan Senate Leaders Urge House GOP to Stand Up to Tech Companies, Protect Children From Social Media Harms & Pass Kids Online Privacy Legislation Before End of Year",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chair Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Ranking Member Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Sens. Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), authors of bipartisan bills to protect children online, wrote to House Republican Leaders urging them to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) package before the end of the year. The legislation to protect children from increasing harms caused by social media has languished in the House for months after overwhelmingly passing the Senate, 91-3, in July.

“While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms,” the senators wrote in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise. “Studies show the more time youth spend on social media, the greater the risk they will suffer from poor mental health, disordered eating, and diminished sleep quality. These risks are multiplied because social media platforms are designed to be addictive, so that kids will spend more time online.”

The KOSPA package combines two key pieces of legislation. The first is the Markey-Cassidy Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), which updates the original COPPA passed in 1998. This legislation bans online companies from collecting personal information from users under 17 years old without their consent and creates an eraser button to eliminate personal information online. The second component is the Blumenthal-Blackburn Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which provides children and parents with the tools, safeguards and transparency to protect against online harms, establishes a duty of care for online platforms and requires the most protective settings for kids by default.

“KOSPA proves that Congress can set aside politics and act decisively when our children are at stake,” the letter continued. “We ask that you join the 91 United States Senators who put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote.”

Read the letter here and below:

Dear Speaker Johnson and Leader Scalise:

We write today to state our support for protecting American children from the harms caused by social media and other online platforms. While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms.

These are not isolated harms. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the use of social media among American youth is pervasive, with up to 95 percent of kids aged 13-17 reporting that they use social media, and more than one-third of them use it constantly. Nearly 40 percent of kids aged 8-12 use social media, even though most platforms purportedly do not allow children under 13 to create an account.

Studies show the more time youth spend on social media, the greater the risk they will suffer from poor mental health, disordered eating, and diminished sleep quality. The use of targeted advertising results in kids being shown ads for alcohol, tobacco, diet pills, or gambling sites. These risks are multiplied because social media platforms are designed to be addictive, so that kids will spend more time online.

Federal law protecting children’s privacy has not kept up with technology. Further, current law does not protect the online privacy of teens aged 13-16.

The “Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act” (“KOSPA”) will give parents and kids more tools to avoid harm. And the law will provide a long overdue update to the current Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The Senate passed KOSPA by an overwhelming, bipartisan vote of 91-3. KOSPA proves that Congress can set aside politics and act decisively when our children are at stake.

We ask that you join the 91 United States Senators who put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote.

Sincerely,

Senator Maria Cantwell

Senator Ted Cruz

Senator Edward Markey

Senator Bill Cassidy

Senator Richard Blumenthal

Senator Marsha Blackburn",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/pro-life/blackburn-smith-lead-over-100-members-of-congress-in-asking-gao-to-investigate-how-much-federal-funding-has-been-awarded-to-abortion-providers,"Blackburn, Smith Lead Over 100 Members of Congress in Asking GAO to Investigate How Much Federal Funding Has Been Awarded to Abortion Providers",2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a bicameral letter led by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representatives Chris Smith (R-N.J.), Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), 112 Members of Congress asked the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate and report on the amount of federal funding that has been awarded to abortion providers—including Planned Parenthood—over the past three years:

“We are writing to request updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers,” the lawmakers wrote.

“Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike,” the lawmakers continued. “It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public.”

BACKGROUND:

The lawmakers noted the GAO has prepared several congressionally requested reports on federal funding for these organizations over the years. According to its most recent report, the abortion industry had siphoned off nearly $2 billion federal taxpayer between fiscal years 2019-2021.

CO-SIGNERS:

Among the 81 House Members and 31 Senators who signed the letter are the top three leaders of the new Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issue/technology/blackburn-fights-to-protect-seniors-from-skyrocketing-artificial-intelligence-scams,Blackburn Fights to Protect Seniors from Skyrocketing Artificial Intelligence Scams,2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of the holiday season, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, issued a warning to seniors at risk of harmful cyber-attacks during a hearing on protecting consumers from artificial intelligence (AI) enabled fraud and scams:

Click hereto watch the full hearing and here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks.

Senior Citizens Are Targeted Most Frequently by AI Scams

“Older Americans are the ones who have been hit most frequently with this, as an emerging threat. Now, the fraudsters that are utilizing AI to deceive consumers have gotten crafty when it comes to creating these highly personalized and convincing attacks. What is surprising to a lot of people is the fact that they are doing this at scale… These attacks have become very realistic. The spear phishing emails that really use a lot of this, make it appear that it's coming from a trusted source. And adding to this, the chat box, which make it appear that you are having an actual real-time conversation with someone, is very disarming… The use of these tools by the scammers are becoming more prevalent, they're becoming more precise, more widespread, and harder to attack.”

Artificial Intelligence Scams Are Putting Tennesseans at Risk

“In Tennessee, I say we've got the good, bad, and ugly relationship with AI. A lot of our manufacturers, people that are working in healthcare, predictive diagnoses, disease analysis, logistics, they are utilizing AI every day, to achieve efficiencies… The ugly is really what is happening to people with these scams, and with these frauds, and especially when it comes to senior citizens… The FTC with the Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book listed that scams increased a billion dollars over the last 12 months to $10 billion. This is what it's costing… We know AI is what is driving a lot of this. It is a technology that is advancing so incredibly fast, and of course legislation never keeps pace with technology.”

Blackburn Says Congress Must Advance Legislation to Protect Citizens in the Virtual Space and Strengthen Privacy

“Consumers need to be armed with knowledge about what is happening here and… we know that it is also going to require that we move forward with having an actual online privacy standard, which we've never passed… It is going to require that we take those actions, [and] we're really thrilled to have you all before us today. It helps to inform not only our committee, our subcommittee, informs our colleagues, and builds into the record for the need to move forward on legislation that will enhance the privacy, and help to protect our citizens in the virtual space.”

RELATED:

Blackburn, Cantwell, Heinrich Introduce Legislation to Combat AI Deepfakes & Put Journalists, Artists & Songwriters Back in Control of Their Content

Blackburn, Coons, Tillis, Klobuchar Announce Draft of Bill to Protect Voice and Likeness of Individuals from AI-Generated Replicas",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/11/issues/veterans/video-blackburn-honors-tennessee-veterans,VIDEO: Blackburn Honors Tennessee Veterans,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video honoring the patriotism and service of more than 400,000 veterans across the Volunteer State on Veterans Day. Learn more about Senator Blackburn’s work to support Tennessee veterans here.

Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn honoring Veterans Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/11/issues/immigration/blackburn-ernst-fight-to-protect-americans-and-deport-illegal-immigrants-convicted-of-sex-crimes,"Blackburn, Ernst Fight to Protect Americans and Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – After a shocking report revealed that tens of thousands of illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are in the country, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and 18 of their colleagues in introducing a bipartisan bill that will allow America to deport sexual offenders currently in the country and block those seeking to enter:

“Led by Border Czar Kamala Harris, the Biden-Harris administration has left our southern border wide open to dangerous criminals and national security threats,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Be GONE Act would ensure that illegal immigrants who commit sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence are deported to keep American citizens safe.”

“These violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they’re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,” said Senator Ernst. “Since Border Czar Kamala Harris won’t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped, and deported.”

BE GONE ACT:

Specifically, the Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as “aggravated felonies.”

CO-SPONSORS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-cornyn-gop-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-stop-biden-harris-amnesty-program,"Blackburn, Cornyn, GOP Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop Biden-Harris Amnesty Program",2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and 12 of their colleagues introduced the Visa Integrity Preservation Act, which would close a loophole in current law that the Biden-Harris administration exploited in a June 2024 executive action to grant amnesty to illegal immigrants who entered the United States without inspection or overstayed a visa:

“Since day one in office, the Biden-Harris administration has made it crystal clear that they support an open border and providing mass amnesty to illegal immigrants through unlawful catch-and-release programs,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Visa Integrity Preservation Act would stop the Biden-Harris administration from devaluing U.S. citizenship and making illegal immigration legal.”

“For almost four years, the Biden-Harris administration has waived their magic amnesty wand to create unlawful programs that allow any and every person to enter and stay in the U.S. – legally or not,” said Senator Cornyn. “By strengthening the laws already on the books, our legislation would root out this massive pull factor while also preserving the integrity of our employment-based nonimmigrant visa program, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for their support.”

BACKGROUND:

Under current immigration law, illegal immigrants who overstay their visas cannot reenter the United States for up to 10 years if they leave, and those who illegally enter the U.S. are not allowed to reenter at all. Federal law also requires that temporary visa applicants interview abroad at a U.S. consulate before they can receive their visas, so illegal immigrants are not eligible to regularize their status using the temporary visa programs. The law does allow the U.S. Secretary of State to waive the consular interview requirement, but only on a case-by-case basis where in the national interest of the United States or in emergency situations.

In June 2024, the Biden-Harris administration announced a new initiative to grant amnesty to over half a million illegal immigrants, including spouses of American citizens. As part of that initiative, President Biden and Vice President Harris waived the consular interview requirement for nonimmigrant visas, enabling immigrants who have illegally entered the U.S. or overstayed a visa to obtain temporary work visas. The Biden-Harris administration’s waiving of this policy encroaches on Congress’s authority and threatens to transform nonimmigrant visa programs into a tool to provide amnesty to illegal immigrants.

VISA INTEGRITY PRESERVATION ACT:

The Visa Integrity Preservation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify that immigrants who have entered the U.S. illegally or overstayed a visa for more than 180 days are not eligible for a waiver of the in-person consular interview requirement and would instead be required under all circumstances to depart the U.S. for an interview before they could receive a nonimmigrant visa. Under existing law, they are barred from reentering the U.S. upon presenting for inspection at a Port of Entry.

CO-SPONSORS:

This legislation is also co-sponsored by Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-highlights-domestic-violence-awareness-month-and-the-salons-stories-act-on-unmuted-with-marsha,VIDEO: Blackburn Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month and The SALONS Stories Act on ‘Unmuted with Marsha’,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a new episode of ‘Unmuted with Marsha’ highlighting Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the SALONS Stories Act. Senator Blackburn spoke with Tennessee salon owner and Shear Haven Co-Founder Susanne Post about her personal experience and how the SALONS Stories Act would incentivize states to provide domestic violence awareness training for beauty professionals.

The national domestic violence hotline number is 800-799-SAFE (7233). The free 20-minute Shear Haven training can be found at Shearhaventraining.org.

Clickhere to watch this episode of Unmuted with Marsha.

“Last December, Senator Duckworth and I introduced a piece of legislation, the SALONS Stories Act. This is important because it allows training that is done by a nonprofit for all of our estheticians and barbers and beauticians. Tennessee and Illinois have moved forward with this training. This is something we are trying to incentivize and do nationwide.” – Senator Blackburn

“This advocacy work that I'm doing was born out of a very personal season for me as a survivor of domestic violence. I know firsthand how isolating it is to be in an abusive relationship, how difficult it can be to take steps to lead safely, and how important it was for me, personally to have someone trusted and close to me that was educated with the signs of domestic violence.” – Susanne Post, Tennessee salon owner and Shear Haven Co-Founder

RELATED:

VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/health-care/blackburn-whitehouse-colleagues-urge-dea-to-extend-telehealth-flexibilities-for-substance-use-disorder-and-mental-health-treatment,"Blackburn, Whitehouse, Colleagues Urge DEA to Extend Telehealth Flexibilities for Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Treatment",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) led a group of 11 Senators in sending a bipartisan letter calling on the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to extend COVID-era regulatory flexibilities that increase access to telehealth services.

These rules have been a lifeline for many patients, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, as well as individuals managing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and chronic illnesses.

“Telemedicine has proven to be an effective tool in reducing barriers to care, supporting those with the greatest need, and bridging the divide between patients and providers,” wrote the Senators.

“As bipartisan senators committed to safeguarding public health and promoting equitable access to health care, we are concerned that the reported proposed restrictions could have significant unintended consequences, including disrupting access to treatment for substance use disorder,” added the Senators. “We urge the DEA to continue working with stakeholders on a proposal that prioritizes the public health benefit for continued access to telemedicine, and finalize an additional temporary extension well before the December 31, 2024 deadline so that both providers and patients have certainty that there will be no gap in their ongoing care.”

BACKGROUND:

The bipartisan letter urges the Biden administration to extend the current flexibilities that safeguard access to necessary care while addressing the risks of prescription medication misuse, and recommends a final rule that creates no new barriers to care.

The letter highlights that telemedicine has expanded access to life-saving treatments, particularly for opioid use disorder, mental health care, and chronic illnesses.

Overdose deaths involving opioids rose to a peak of 84,181 Americans in 2022 before falling to 81,083 in 2023. Despite strong evidence that medication is the most effective treatment for opioid use disorder, only one in five Americans with opioid addiction receive medication treatment that could help them quit and stay in recovery.

The Senators’ letter also stresses the importance of ensuring there is no gap in services when the current rules expire at the end of 2024.

TREATS ACT:

In November 2023, Senators Blackburn, Whitehouse, Murkowski, and Warner reintroduced the Telehealth Response for E-prescribing Addiction Therapy Services (TREATS) Act to increase access to medication for substance use disorder through telehealth.

The bipartisan legislation would waive regulatory restrictions for accessing care, preserving flexibilities put in place to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services temporarily removed the in-person exam requirement for prescribing medication via telemedicine for people with opioid use disorder. Telehealth flexibilities helped a broad range of patients – including veterans, those living in rural areas, people experiencing homelessness, individuals in the criminal justice system, and racial and ethnic minorities – access treatment. The flexibilities are set to expire on December 31, 2024.

The TREATS Act would make the changes permanent, allowing providers to waive the in-person visit requirement and instead use audio-only or audio-visual telehealth technology. The TREATS Act has 20 bipartisan co-sponsors in the Senate.

CO-SIGNERS:

The letter is also signed by Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Representatives Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) and Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) are leading a similar effort in the House.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/broadband-czar-harris-must-be-held-accountable-for-mismanagement-of-federal-initiatives,“Broadband Czar” Harris Must Be Held Accountable for Mismanagement of Federal Initiatives,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, and seven of their Senate colleagues sent a letter to Vice President Kamala Harris regarding her egregious mismanagement of federal broadband initiatives.

In 2021, President Biden specifically tasked the Vice President to lead the administration’s effort to expand broadband services to rural, unserved communities. Under Vice President Harris’s tenure as the “broadband czar,” the Biden-Harris administration’s $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program has yet to connect a single person to the internet.

“Instead of focusing on delivering broadband services to unserved areas, your administration has used the BEAD program to add partisan, extralegal requirements that were never envisioned by Congress and have obstructed broadband deployment,” wrote the Senators. “By imposing burdensome climate change mandates on infrastructure projects, prioritizing government-owned networks over private investment, mandating the use of unionized labor in states, and seeking to regulate broadband rates, your administration has caused unnecessary delays leaving millions of Americans unconnected.”

CO-SIGNERS:

The letter was also signed by Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/human-trafficking/blackburn-cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-combat-child-exploitation,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Combat Child Exploitation",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and three of their Senate colleagues introduced the PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program:

“For more than 15 years, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has helped law enforcement agencies protect innocent children from sexual predators who wish to exploit them online,” said Senator Blackburn. “The PROTECT Our Children Act would reauthorize this critical program to combat technology-facilitated crimes against children.”

“For decades, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has played an invaluable role in helping federal, state, and local law enforcement work together to fight child exploitation and put vicious predators behind bars,” said Senator Cornyn. “By extending and modernizing this program, our legislation would ensure these Task Forces can continue to protect our next generation in an increasingly digital world.”

“We must save children who are victims of the most ongoing vile, stomach-churning crimes because child sexual abuse goes unstopped,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Protecting such victims is urgent and imperative—and we have an obligation to provide tools and resources necessary to do it. The PROTECT Our Children Act reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Programs, enabling law enforcement to combat the exploding, serious dangers of abhorrent abuse in an online society. This essential legislation will help safeguard our children and hold predators accountable.”

BACKGROUND:

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

Since 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects.

THE PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT:

The PROTECT Our Children Act would:

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

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

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

Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations; and

Reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2027 with an escalator authorization.

ENDORSEMENTS:

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

CO-SPONSORS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-recognizes-breast-cancer-awareness-month,VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encouraging women to get their yearly mammogram.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and now is the perfect time to encourage your mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends to go in for a yearly checkup. Last year, Senator Blackburn led a bipartisan effort to address the challenges female veterans face when seeking mammogram services. Expanding access to mobile mammography units, improving advanced mammography equipment, and enhancing outreach services to better publicize mammography services will increase female veterans’ access to lifesaving preventative screening.

Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“As we think about breast cancer, one in eight women is expected to experience breast cancer in her lifetime, so breast health and mammograms are important. Last year, I led an effort to make certain that our female veterans have access to mammograms, and we did that through legislation that would allow mobile mammography. So ‘think pink’ during the month of October, and wear some pink, as you remind moms and sisters and daughters and friends to get that mammogram.”– Senator Blackburn

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/icymi-in-the-hill-blackburn-pushes-back-against-kosa-lies,ICYMI in The Hill: Blackburn Pushes Back Against KOSA Lies,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a memo rebutting Big Tech’s lies about the Kids Online Safety Act, which passed the Senate 91-3. Read more about this memo in the article here and below.

Republican senator pushes back against KOSA ‘lies’

Miranda Nazzaro

The Hill

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) pushed back against tech companies’ criticism of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), responding in a memo Monday to what she described as “lies” about the privacy legislation.

The memo, released Monday morning by her office, rebuked a series of arguments made by some leading tech companies and lawmakers opposed to the bill’s current form. It comes as the legislation faces an uncertain future in the House after passing in the Senate earlier this year.

Blackburn, the co-author of the Senate-passed version, wrote KOSA does not censor speech nor affect the First Amendment — concerns raised by some House Republicans.

“KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from,” the memo stated. “The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral.

The bill would not give any new “rulemaking power” to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Blackburn wrote in response to some Republicans’ concerns it would give the FTC too much authority to regulate social media platforms.

KOSA, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in a 91-3 vote in late July, is aimed at boosting online privacy and safety for children. The bill would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and intends to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms.

Some House Republicans suggested last month the bill could specifically censor conservative voices or anti-abortion views. Blackburn disagreed with this, writing online platforms will not be held liable for hosting or boosting users with these views, and emphasized the bill does not grant enforcement powers related to speech or content.

“Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law,” Blackburn wrote. “The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media accountable for their product designs — their own predatory business practices and deadly apps.”

While the bill advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee last month, members in both parties expressed concerns with its language, for different reasons.

Some lawmakers took issue with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harms, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders.

Blackburn offered her definition of the provision, writing it “simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. These harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC.”

The House version that advanced out of committee last month includes amendments changing this provision.

The Tennessee Republican further emphasized that KOSA applies to commercial and online platforms like social media, online video games and video streaming services, but it does not apply to nonprofit organizations, blogs, news outlets, churches or broadband companies.

“It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news or a church sermon,” Blackburn wrote.

The bill would “give parents a seat at the table” and a place to voice their concerns with leading tech companies, she added.

The push comes nearly a week after House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) revealed he likes the concept of KOSA, though he claims the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.”

“I love the principle, but the details of that are very problematic,” Johnson told Punchbowl News in an interview in Pennsylvania.

The Speaker said the Senate bill, as written, would have “unintended consequences,” Punchbowl reported. Johnson’s office confirmed his comments to The Hill.

Punchbowl reported Johnson did not appear open to persuasion on the Senate version, a potential blow to KOSA advocates who previously told the outlet the House leader might be flexible.

Monday’s memo follows a series of other efforts led by Blackburn and tech advocacy groups to pass the legislation on the full House floor.

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/icymi-on-wjhl-blackburn-lauds-volunteers-promises-fema-oversight-after-floods,"ICYMI on WJHL: Blackburn Lauds Volunteers, Promises FEMA Oversight After Floods",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 during her trip to Northeast Tennessee on Friday, where she received an update from local and state officials on repairs following Hurricane Helene:

Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11.

Blackburn lauds volunteers, promises FEMA oversight after floods

Murry Lee

WJHL News Channel 11

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) was in Northeast Tennessee surveying damage left by Hurricane Helene on Friday.

Blackburn toured damage in parts of Northeast Tennessee like Washington and Greene counties. Blackburn went to the remains of the Highway 107 Kinser Bridge and examined the amount of debris in the area.

News Channel 11 spoke with Blackburn in Greene County during a meeting with local leaders like County Mayor Kevin Morrison and EMA Director Heather Sipe.

“We are working on flood damage and of course, the response here with the EMA with the mayor, with your local elected officials has really been exemplary,” Blackburn said. “And our team has worked really closely with them. We’re standing up the multi-agency resource centers. We are doing pop-up office hours, and Michael and Kim in our office are working with people to be sure that they recover those Social Security and VA and income tax documents.”

Blackburn told News Channel 11 it is critical that people and businesses receive the care and attention required after the natural disaster.

“What we want to do is make certain that FEMA stays on the ground, that individuals are able to apply for all the resources that are available to them, and that FEMA processes these claims in a timely manner, whether it is something for the county, for businesses, or for individuals,” she said.

Blackburn’s office has also created a web page to direct flood-impacted Tennesseans to resources like FEMA individual assistance and Multi-Agency Resource Centers.

The senator also praised the volunteer spirit of Tennessee during her visit.

“Tennessee has the best volunteers and the best communities, and people have stepped up,” she said. “I think it is just so inspiring how they’ve come forward with water and food and furniture and clothing, and the communities are partnering up to help everybody in Upper East Tennessee and help them rebuild. We have so many families that have really lost everything.”

Blackburn stated that part of the process going forward will be to ensure federal agencies like FEMA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) fulfill their obligations in the months to come.

“What we will do is just continue,” Blackburn said. “It’s mostly oversight. There will be some funding provisions and we want to make certain that the agencies are funded adequately so that they respond appropriately to the needs that are there in the communities. And then looking at the oversight for how FEMA and the Small Business Administration and DOT, those agencies that respond in times of disaster to make certain that they do that in the proper manner.”

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-hagerty-colleagues-call-out-doj-for-refusing-to-provide-answers-on-prosecutions-of-illegal-aliens-registering-to-vote,"Blackburn, Hagerty, Colleagues Call Out DOJ for Refusing to Provide Answers on Prosecutions of Illegal Aliens Registering to Vote",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and a group of bicameral colleagues in calling out U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) failure to prevent illegal aliens from registering to vote in American elections or prosecute those who evidently have done so:

“We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the Members of Congress wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.”

“Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results,” the Members of Congress continued.

BACKGROUND:

State officials across the country have recently taken steps to prevent, deter, and investigate cases of illegal voter registration by non-citizens, including in South Carolina, Georgia, Ohio, and Tennessee. Since the Members of Congress sent their initial letter, cases have emerged in Virginia and Texas.

CO-SIGNERS:

Co-signers of the letter include Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), along with Representatives Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Andy Harris (R-Md.), Clay Higgins (R-La.), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Bob Good (R-Va.), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Ben Cline (R-Va.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), Mary Miller (R-Ill.), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Lance Gooden (R-Texas.), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Mike Collins (R-Ga.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Greg Lopez (R-Colo.), Keith Self (R-Texas), Brian Babin (R-Texas), August Pfluger (R-Texas), Alex Mooney (R-W. Va.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Randy Weber (R-Texas.), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.), and Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/rebuttal-to-big-tech-s-lies-about-kosa,Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies about KOSA,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"To: Interested Parties

Date: October 21, 2024

Re: Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies About the Kids Online Safety Act

KOSA Does Not Censor Speech Nor Impact the 1st Amendment

KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from. This bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral.

Online platforms cannot be held liable for hosting or promoting conservative voices or pro-life views as a result of this bill. The legislation does not include any enforcement powers or obligations related to content or speech.

To be clear on Congress’s intent to protect speech, the bill includes an explicit statement that it does not expand or limit Section 230, which provides online platforms broad legal immunities for third-party content. Furthermore, the bill provides legal safeguards to protect users’ ability to view and search for the content that they choose to see.

KOSA Does Not Increase The Authority of the Federal Government or FTC

It is important to note that there is no new rulemaking power for the FTC in KOSA nor any ability to create rules about content. KOSA gives the FTC clear direction from Congress about how to apply its existing enforcement authorities to protect kids online.

Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law.

What Does KOSA’s Duty of Care Actually Do?

The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media platforms accountable for their product designs – their own predatory business practices and deadly apps. This is the same responsibility and accountability that exists for almost every other industry in America

The duty of care simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. Those harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC.

Big Tech will be required to ensure their platforms are safe for kids by default, and not put the burden exclusively on parents. This will also ensure that the protections for kids keep up with changes in technology.

KOSA Will Not Require Anyone To Upload ID

KOSA does not impose age verification requirements or require platforms to collect more data about users (government IDs or otherwise). In fact, the bill explicitly states that it does not require age gating, age verification, or the collection of additional data.

KOSA Protects Churches, Blogs, and News Outlets

KOSA covers commercial, online platforms such as social media, social networks, online video games, social messaging applications, and video streaming services, such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Roblox.

Non-profit organizations, blogs, personal websites, news outlets, churches, broadband companies, etc. are not covered by KOSA. It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news, or a church sermon.

KOSA Gives Parents A Seat At The Table

For decades, Big Tech lobbyists and their front groups have dominated the conversation, denying the suffering of American families. The Kids Online Safety Council is a place where parents have a seat across the table from big tech and they can raise the issues they are seeing with their kids. The Council has no rulemaking or enforcement power.

KOSA Uses The Same Methods Our Military Utilizes to Define ""Mental Health Disorder”

For decades, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Mental Disorders (DSM) has been used by Congress and states, as well as our military, the VA, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

How Can Companies Know Who Is Under 17?

Online platforms have been required to provide legal protections to kids for more than two decades under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Just as COPPA has not required age-gating or substantial burdens on business or privacy, neither will KOSA.

If an online platform truly doesn’t know the age of the user, then it does not face any obligation under the bill. It is not required online platforms collect more data to determine the user’s age.

Click here to download the full memo.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-rose-tennessee-delegation-call-for-urgent-aide-to-farmers-devastated-by-helene,"Blackburn, Rose, Tennessee Delegation Call for Urgent Aide to Farmers Devastated by Helene",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), U.S. Representative John Rose (R-Tenn.), and the entire Tennessee Congressional Delegation sent a letter urging U.S. House and Senate leadership to provide meaningful disaster relief for Tennessee farmers in the weeks ahead.

Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend of Florida as a Category 4 storm. While assessments are ongoing, Helene is on track to become one of the deadliest and most devastating hurricanes to hit the United States. In the letter, Members of the Tennessee Delegation highlighted the important role federal agricultural disaster assistance will have in helping Tennessee farmers recover.

“In Tennessee, some areas received nearly 10 – 15 inches of rainfall in addition to runoff from surrounding states, drowning crops and littering fields with debris. Ruined ready-to-harvest crops and forage, flooded pastures, equipment loss, and distressed livestock have left farmers questioning how their operations will move forward and how they will provide for their families,” wrote the Tennessee Delegation. “Producers, who are already engulfed by the ongoing farm financial crisis, will require meaningful disaster assistance to stand up their operations and continue farming.”

CO-SIGNERS:

The letter was also signed by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and U.S. Reps. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Mark Green (R-Tenn.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-receives-update-on-flooding-repairs-along-nolichucky-river,Blackburn Receives Update on Flooding Repairs Along Nolichucky River,2024-10-19,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) met with local and state officials to receive an update on repairs following the devastating damages caused by Hurricane Helene. In Washington County, Senator Blackburn met with families who have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses during the destruction alongside Governor Bill Lee and Deputy Governor and Commissioner of Transportation for Tennessee Butch Eley. In Greene County, Senator Blackburn received an update on the reconstruction of Kinser Bridge, which was washed away in the Nolichucky River during the storm.

“Our staff is working every single day to help people with flood recovery, and right now people are trying to get things cleaned up and cleaned out so they can make assessments about rebuilding and what recovery is going to look like. Our goal at the federal level is to continue to work with FEMA to get these projects completed as quickly as possible. We continue to lift up those who have felt the wrath of this storm in prayer.” – Senator Blackburn

Click hereto download this photo of Senator Blackburn, Governor Lee, and First Lady Maria Lee.

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-bennet-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-employer-child-care-tax-credit,"Blackburn, Bennet Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Employer Child Care Tax Credit",2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), members of the Senate Committee on Finance, introduced the bipartisan Child Care for American Families Act to strengthen the employer-provided child care credit and expand support for small and rural businesses:

“Many families across Tennessee and America are struggling to find reliable and affordable child care, and we need to incentivize businesses to invest in child-care services for their employees,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Child Care for American Families Act would help alleviate the financial burden of child-care costs by expanding and modernizing the Employer-Provided Child Care Tax Credit.”

“Child care costs are rising nationwide, and countless families lack access to affordable, high-quality child care. This makes things that much harder for working parents, strains families’ budgets, and adds undue stress for families with young children,” said Senator Bennet. “The Child Care for American Families Act will help increase our country’s child care supply and reduce the number of Americans in child care deserts.”

BACKGROUND

According to the Tennessee Department of Human Services, 48 percent of Tennessee residents live in a child care desert, with disproportionate impacts felt by rural and low-income communities.

The Bipartisan Policy Center found that 31.7 percent of children below the age of six with working parents do not have access to child care, and in rural communities, that number arises to 35.1 percent.

THE CHILD CARE FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES ACT:

Expands the employer-provided child care credit to cover a greater percentage of child care expenses, equal to:

60% for businesses in eligible rural and low-income areas, up to a maximum of $1.2 million annually;

50% for small businesses, up to a maximum of $1 million annually; and

40% for all other businesses, up to a maximum of $800,000 annually.

Directs the U.S. Department of the Treasury to issue guidance on multi-employer facilities.

ENDORSEMENTS

The Child Care for American Families Act is endorsed by Save the Children, Colorado Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC), Kindercare, and Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC).

Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/fighting-wokeness/blackburn-to-blinken-the-state-department-s-divisive-dei-agenda-undermines-america-s-interests-abroad,Blackburn to Blinken: The State Department’s Divisive DEI Agenda Undermines America’s Interests Abroad,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter demanding transparency from U.S. Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken on the Department’s use of taxpayer dollars to pay the salaries of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) employees instead of promoting U.S. security overseas.

Last month, reporting revealed top DEI officials at the Biden-Harris State Department make nearly $200,000 each year – nearly double the pay of average State Department employees.

The State Department Goes to Extreme Lengths to Prioritize Diversity Over Competence

“I write with concern regarding the State Department’s use of hundreds of thousands of taxpayer funds to pay the salaries of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) employees. The State Department’s apparent willingness to go to extreme lengths to prioritize diversity over competence in formulating a workforce for the agency, whose stated mission, in part, is to ‘protect and promote U.S. security,’ is demonstrated by the hefty salaries of top DEI officials. According to financial disclosures, the position of Chief Diversity and Inclusion officer received an annual salary of $194,510, and the State Department’s Special Representative for Racial Justice and Equity receives $191,000 per year. Conversely, the base salary of the average State Department employee is just $97,000.”

As Iran, China, and Russia Wage War on Democracy, the State Department’s DEI Agenda Is Offensive and Irresponsible

“As you know, the current geopolitical landscape is dangerously volatile, and the United States is entangled in multiple diplomatic conflicts worldwide. Israel, one of our closest allies, is fighting an existential war against Iran’s proxy terrorist groups on several fronts, Communist China continues to threaten Taiwan’s sovereignty and bully nations in the Indo-Pacific into subservience, and Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine has now resulted in at least one million casualties on both sides. During this capricious period, it imprudent and offensive for your agency to allocate hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to support a DEI agenda that does not support, but in fact undermines, America’s interests abroad. The American people deserve transparency over the use of their tax dollars to advance a divisive ideological agenda, particularly when it comes at the expense of protecting and promoting U.S. security overseas.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/health-care/blackburn-duckworth-introduce-bill-to-increase-access-to-advanced-wheelchairs,"Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bill to Increase Access to Advanced Wheelchairs",2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced the Choices for Increased Mobility Act to increase access to wheelchairs made with advanced materials by allowing Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to lighter, more functional wheelchairs without bearing the entire upfront cost. These manual wheelchairs help prevent shoulder injuries, enhance maneuverability, and reduce overall pain and fatigue for users.

“Too many Americans with disabilities face unnecessary barriers to obtaining the best mobility equipment to meet their needs,” said Senator Blackburn. “By making it easier for Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to wheelchairs made with advanced, lighter materials like carbon fiber and titanium, this bipartisan bill would help improve the quality of life for countless individuals. I’m pleased to work with Senator Duckworth to reduce financial burdens on those who rely on these essential devices and ensure that more people have access to the mobility solutions they deserve.”

“For too long, Medicare recipients have struggled to access lighter, more functional wheelchairs that would help them get around more easily while putting significantly less strain on their bodies,” said Senator Duckworth. “Our bipartisan legislation would help ensure Medicare recipients are better able to access the wheelchairs they need to live healthier, more independent lives—with minimal cost to the federal government. It’s a win-win.”

BACKGROUND

Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) is a specialized subset of the Durable Medical Equipment benefit, which includes highly configurable manual and power wheelchairs, adaptive seating, and positioning systems. Among these, manual wheelchairs constructed from advanced materials like carbon fiber and titanium are significantly stronger and lighter than standard aluminum wheelchairs.

When the Medicare billing code for ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs was established in 1993, materials like titanium and carbon fiber were not considered, as they were not yet in use for wheelchairs. As a result, CRT providers have struggled to supply wheelchairs with these advanced materials at the fee schedule amounts set by Medicare.

Historically, Medicare allowed beneficiaries who met medical necessity requirements to upgrade their equipment by paying the difference between standard and upgraded materials. However, a policy change in 2016 removed this option, requiring beneficiaries to prepay the entire cost of the wheelchair out-of-pocket and await reimbursement for the standard portion, significantly limiting access to these advanced wheelchairs.

CHOICES FOR INCREASED MOBILITY ACT

The Choices for Increased Mobility Act would create two new billing codes for ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs: one for base models and another for those constructed with titanium or carbon fiber. This change would allow Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to lighter, more functional wheelchairs without bearing the entire upfront cost. Instead, beneficiaries would only pay for the cost of the specialized materials, significantly reducing their financial burden.

This bill aims to restore the option for beneficiaries to choose and pay for advanced materials for their wheelchairs without removing medical necessity requirements. It would ensure that Medicare covers the standard portion of the wheelchair cost, with beneficiaries responsible only for the upgraded materials.

ENDORSEMENTS

This legislation is supported by the American Association for Homecare, Permobil Americas, National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology, National Registry for Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers, Clinical Task Force, The VGM Group, U.S. Rehab, Association for Tennessee Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment Services, Great Lakes Home Medical Services Association, Midwest Association for Medical Equipment Services, Southwest Medical Equipment Suppliers Association, Alabama Durable Medical Equipment Association, Michigan HomeCare & Hospice Association, Pennsylvania Association of Medical Suppliers, Georgia Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers, Texas Medical Equipment Providers Association, Home Medical Equipment and Services Association of New England, Georgia Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers, Florida Alliance of Home Care Services, Atlantic Coast Medical Equipment Services Association, Northeast Medical Equipment Providers Association, Nevada Association of Medical Product Suppliers, Big Sky Association of Home Medical Equipment Suppliers, Pacific Association for Medical Equipment Services, Colorado Association for Medical Equipment Services, California Association of Medical Product Suppliers, Ohio Association of Medical Equipment Services, and Arkansas Medical Equipment Providers.

“We are so fortunate to be able to work with leaders like Senator Blackburn and Senator Duckworth who share our passion for supporting people with disabilities,” said Tom Ryan, President & CEO of the American Association for Homecare. “Their work to improve access to lightweight wheelchairs is the latest example of their commitment to ensuring people with mobility challenges can remain actively engaged in their communities.”

“Our mission will always be to enable those with disabilities to live life with independence by providing aides of the same technical standards that we all use in our daily lives. S. 5154 is a common sense, budget neutral solution that empowers individuals with the choice to access to the many benefits of titanium or carbon fiber wheelchair frames,” said Chuck Witkowski, President of Permobil Americas. “We are immensely grateful to Senators Blackburn and Duckworth and thank them for their continued leadership and support of this community.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-recognizes-domestic-violence-awareness-month,VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month,2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and calling on the Senate to pass her bipartisan legislation to better protect women nationwide from domestic violence before the end of the year.

One in four women will face physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. Some women, even at their most vulnerable and isolated, will continue going to the salon and building relationships with their cosmetologists. The bipartisan bill, the SALONS Stories Act, would empower beauty professionals to recognize and respond to domestic violence.

Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the SALONS Stories Act.

“Every year, there's about 5 million occurrences of domestic violence against women age 18 and older, and there are things that we can do. There is awareness that can be built. One item we're pushing forward in the U.S. Senate is the SALONS Stories Act. This is legislation that will provide training for estheticians and beauticians so that they are able to look for the signs of domestic violence and then intercede and get help for people who are victims and need that help.” – Senator Blackburn

RELATED:

Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bill To Help Cosmetologists Recognize & Respond To Domestic Violence",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-grassley-bicameral-colleagues-call-out-abuses-in-the-biden-harris-unaccompanied-migrant-children-program,"Blackburn, Grassley, Bicameral Colleagues Call Out Abuses in the Biden-Harris Unaccompanied Migrant Children Program",2024-10-15,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and 42 bicameral Republican colleagues in a letter urging President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to work with Congress to root out abuses in their administration’s unaccompanied migrant children program and stop the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) cover-up of the crisis. HHS has failed to comply with two out of every three U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) subpoenas and other information requests issued amid its investigation into more than 100 suspicious sponsors.

The lawmakers are urging Biden and Harris to “make changes to [their] policies and procedures” in order to “end this public safety crisis.” They are specifically calling on the Biden-Harris administration to enhance information sharing with law enforcement and Congress, fully cooperate with DHS’s child exploitation investigation, and thoroughly respond to all congressional oversight requests.

“[The Biden-Harris HHS] must stop its cover-up and cooperate with law enforcement and Congress to end this crisis and protect unaccompanied children and the American people,” the lawmakers concluded.

BACKGROUND:

More than 500,000 unaccompanied migrant children have crossed the southwest border under the Biden-Harris administration, while cartel trafficking activity surged an estimated 2,500 percent. Amid this crisis, the lawmakers note that the Biden-Harris administration limited background checks for sponsors of unaccompanied children, cut back on familial DNA testing at the border and decreased information sharing with law enforcement.

In addition to hampering DHS’s child exploitation investigation, the Biden-Harris HHS attempted to obstruct oversight of HHS contractors, including Southwest Key. HHS has also defied House Judiciary Committee subpoenas.

CO-SPONSORS:

Joining Senators Blackburn and Grassley in signing the letter are Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), along with Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Roger Marshall (R-Kans.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.).

Additional co-signers in the House include Representatives Tom McLintock (R-Ca.), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Dan Bishop (R-N.C.), Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.), Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.), Ben Cline (R-Va.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Russell Fry (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Wesley Hunt (R-Texas), Laurel Lee (R-Fla.), and Michael Rulli (R-Ohio).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-demand-tiktok-documents,Blackburn & Blumenthal Demand TikTok Documents,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn), authors of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, wrote TikTok CEO Shou Chew requesting “documents, communications, and research held by TikTok regarding the safety of minors on its platform.” The request follows reports of a court filing from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office revealing TikTok executives’ awareness of the platform’s harm to young people and subsequent disregard of the mental and physical dangers the platform poses to children and teens.

BACKGROUND:

In the letters, the Senators requested that TikTok provide documents and information previously produced to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and other states’ Attorneys General.

The full text of the letter can be found .",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/blackburn-ernst-to-tiktok-celebrating-female-athletes-is-not-hate-speech,"Blackburn, Ernst to TikTok: Celebrating Female Athletes Is Not Hate Speech",2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) sent a letter to TikTok Chief Executive Officer Shou Zi Chew regarding the platform’s decision to ban and label pro-women’s sports advertisements as “hate speech” while simultaneously allowing graphic advertisements promoting transgender surgery for minors on the platform.

TikTok’s Ban of Pro-Women Sports Ads Is Only Latest Example of Attempt to Indoctrinate Users

“We write to you today regarding TikTok’s decision to ban pro-women’s sports advertisements as ‘hate speech,’ while allowing ads promoting transgender surgery for minors on the platform. This is yet another example of TikTok’s attempted indoctrination of its users, in addition to instances where TikTok has deplatformed notable female athletes—like Bethany Hamilton and Riley Gaines—simply for advocating for fair play. These blatant examples of bias further call into question the extent to which TikTok levies its influence over Americans for nefarious purposes.”

TikTok Labeled Small Business Advertisement Celebrating Female Achievement in Sports as “Offensive” and “Hate Speech”

“Reporting from June indicates that TikTok banned XX-XY Athletics—an American owned small business that supports biological women in sports—from advertising on the platform… TikTok labeled the content offensive and, later, hate speech. The advertisement deemed hateful by TikTok was simply a celebration of female achievement—using a real life example—and encouraged young women to ‘be honest and be brave.’ Supporting young women should never be offensive, and it is telling that TikTok would consider a celebration of our girls in sports as worthy of being banned.”

Meanwhile, TikTok Allows Graphic Ads Promoting Transgender Surgery for Minors

“Even more troubling are the advertisements that TikTok does permit on its platform. TikTok allows woke advertisements in an attempt to mold Americans’ minds on a litany of issues. One of the most concerning advertisements that TikTok allows, though, is an advertisement promoting transgender surgery for minors. The sponsored content shows a teenage girl who recently had a double mastectomy, exposing her surgery in graphic detail. TikTok allowing this advertisement to run on minors’ feeds is the height of hypocrisy from a platform that suppresses conservative speech while profiting from leftist propaganda.”

Protecting Female Athletes Is Not Controversial – Nearly 70% of Americans Agree Athletes Should Only Be Allowed to Compete Against Their Own Biological Sex

“Almost 70% of Americans agree that athletes should only be allowed to compete on sports teams that correspond with their sex at birth. There is nothing controversial or hateful about the fact that men and women have biological differences, and any argument to the contrary is simply an attack on our nation’s women and girls. Not only is TikTok a threat to every American’s privacy and our national security, but it also threatens free speech and the rights of parents to rear their children in the way they see fit—rights fundamental to who we are as Americans. TikTok should immediately stop their assault on America’s young women and small businesses and allow companies that promote biological women in sports to advertise on the platform.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-celebrates-female-athletes-on-october-10,VIDEO: Blackburn Celebrates Female Athletes on October 10,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video celebrating women’s athletic achievements on October 10th after introducing a resolution earlier this year to designate 10/10 as ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’

Despite the fact that nearly70% of Americans agree athletes should only be allowed to compete on teams that correspond with their sex at birth, Senate Democrats blocked the effort to pass this resolution last month.

Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’

“In 2022, the Biden-Harris Department of Education announced new rules that would actually force schools to allow biological men to play on female teams. This regulation really does undermine women's sports, so I introduced legislation that would establish a day, October 10th, as ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’ The Democrats went to the floor and blocked that resolution, but October 10th should still be a day we set aside and celebrate our female athletes. In the last 50 years, since the signing of Title IX, female athletes have really gone from the sidelines to center stage. That is something to celebrate.” – Senator Blackburn

RELATED:

Senate Democrats Block Blackburn’s Effort to Establish “American Girls in Sports Day”

Blackburn Leads Resolution To Recognize ‘American Girls In Sports Day’",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/military/blackburn-tennessee-officials-tour-disaster-relief-center-and-receive-update-on-i-40-repairs-in-east-tennessee,"Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Tour Disaster Relief Center and Receive Update on I-40 Repairs in East Tennessee",2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) toured the Northeast Tennessee Disaster Relief Center at Bristol Motor Speedway, which currently serves as a major donation and collection site, provides logistics for search-and-rescue operations, and houses a regional disaster relief hotline. After the tour, Senator Blackburn, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, and U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) held a media availability.

Senator Blackburn then heard from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) at I-40 in Cocke County about the steps the agency is taking to repair damages along the vital roadway that connects North Carolina and Tennessee. Following the update, Senator Blackburn, Governor Lee, Representative Harshbarger, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Commissioner of Transportation for Tennessee and Deputy Governor Butch Eley, and other Tennessee officials held a media availability.

“I want to say a heartfelt thank you to the Governor’s team and to the TDOT Commissioner for working so quickly on all of this. Tennesseans who still need assistance getting documents can visit our website, blackburn.senate.gov/Helene. They can view that webpage in English or Spanish and find out where to get help and how to give help. We are also beginning pop-up office hours this week in affected counties to help residents access the critical federal resources they need.” – Senator Blackburn

Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn and Representative Harshbarger with members of the Tennessee National Guard at Bristol Motor Speedway.

RELATED:

Blackburn Announces Pop-Up Office Hours to Assist Flood Victims in East Tennessee

Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Survey Storm Damage and Meet with Flood Victims in East Tennessee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/israel/video-blackburn-marks-one-year-since-barbaric-october-7th-attack-on-israel,VIDEO: Blackburn Marks One Year Since Barbaric October 7th Attack on Israel,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack on Israel that claimed the lives of more than 1,200 people:

Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing the October 7th attack against Israel.

“Today, on October 7, it is important for us to pause and to remember what happened one year ago today, and it is important for us to recommit ourselves in supporting Israel and making certain that Israel has what they need to protect themselves.” – Senator Blackburn

RELATED:

Blackburn, Graham, Rubio, Colleagues Condemn Palestinian Effort Targeting Israel at UN

Blackburn, Graham, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Condemning Any Action by the Biden Administration To Withhold Ammunition Or Weapons For Israel

Blackburn Statement On Terrorist Attacks Against Israel",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-announces-pop-up-office-hours-to-assist-flood-victims-in-east-tennessee,Blackburn Announces Pop-Up Office Hours to Assist Flood Victims in East Tennessee,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in counties across East Tennessee, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) announced pop-up office hours in affected counties for staff to provide immediate assistance to flood victims:

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the recent flooding,” said Senator Blackburn. “As we continue to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to support recovery efforts, I want to ensure that every impacted resident has access to the resources they need.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pop-up office hours will be available to help residents access critical federal resources and navigate replacing any federal documentation that may be needed to receive federal assistance, including social security cards, veteran records, and tax information.

Staff can also assist flood victims in following up on disaster assistance applications with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Constituents are encouraged to bring any relevant documentation with them, such as proof of residency and identification, to streamline the process.

For those unable to attend pop-up office hours, assistance remains available at Senator Blackburn’s state offices or at https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/helene.

For more information on pop-up office hours, please contact (423) 753-4009.

SCHEDULE AND LOCATIONS:

Tuesday, October 8, 2024 – Johnson and Carter Counties

Johnson County Courthouse - Lower Courtroom

9:00AM – 12:00PM ET

222 West Main Street

Mountain City, TN 37683

Carter County Courthouse - Mayor's Conference Room

2:00PM – 5:00PM ET

801 E Elk Ave

Elizabethton, TN 37643

Wednesday, October 9, 2024 – Washington and Unicoi Counties

Jonesborough Visitors Center Community Room

9:00AM – 12:00PM ET

117 Boone St.

Jonesborough, TN 37659

Erwin City Hall

2:00PM – 5:00PM ET

211 N Main Ave

Erwin, TN 37650

Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Greene and Cocke Counties

Greene County Annex

9:00AM – 12:00PM ET

204 N Cutler St.

Greeneville, TN 37745

Cocke County Recreation Center

2:00PM – 5:00PM ET

466 Learning Way

Newport, TN 37821

Friday, October 11, 2024 – Hamblen and Hawkins Counties

Hamblen County Mayor's Office

9:00AM – 12:00PM ET

511 W 2nd St.

Morristown, TN 37814

Mayor's Office Admin Building

2:00PM – 5:00PM ET

301 E. Washington St.

Rogersville, TN 37857",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/military/blackburn-on-mcghee-tyson-ang-base-s-advancement-in-competition-to-become-main-operating-base-for-kc-46-aircraft,Blackburn on McGhee Tyson ANG Base’s Advancement in Competition to Become Main Operating Base for KC-46 Aircraft,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the 134th Air Refueling Wing at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard (ANG) Base outside of Knoxville, Tennessee, was selected for the final phase of competition to house the U.S. Department of the Air Force’s next generation of air refueling aircraft, the KC-46 Pegasus:

“With decades of proven experience and service, McGhee Tyson ANG Base would be the perfect fit to receive and employ the KC-46, and I applaud the Air Force’s decision to keep Tennessee in the running,” said Senator Blackburn.

Earlier this year, Senator Blackburn led the entire Tennessee congressional delegation in sending a letter urging U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall III to make McGhee Tyson ANG Base the seventh main operating base for the KC-46. Senator Blackburn recently spoke with Air Force officials, who informed her of the Department’s decision to keep Tennessee in the running between seven possible locations.

Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn with Airmen of Tennessee’s 134th Air Refueling Wing.

BACKGROUND:

McGhee Tyson ANG Base boasts over 68 years of volunteer excellence and service to the Air Force. The unit has received a remarkable 16 Air Force Outstanding Unit awards and is one of the most decorated air refueling units in Air Force history.

KC-46 acquisition is the Tennessee Air National Guard’s number one short-term priority. Securing KC-46 aircraft for McGhee Tyson ANG Base will preserve over 1,500 jobs and $203 million annually for decades to come.

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-tillis-colleagues-make-bipartisan-push-for-quick-passage-of-hurricane-helene-disaster-relief-legislation,"Blackburn, Tillis, Colleagues Make Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Legislation",2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and 10 of their Senate colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Senate Appropriations Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) on the urgent need to pass a disaster relief package to support the millions of Americans affected by Hurricane Helene:

“The devastation from Hurricane Helene across the southeastern United States is simply inconceivable…Because of a lack of cell service, we anticipate even greater tragedy to unfold in the days and weeks ahead as communications and power are restored and we can understand the full scope of this disaster,” the Senators wrote.

“Even preliminary damage assessments indicate that, at a minimum, the total damage and economic loss will be in the tens of billions of dollars. This amount will likely soar as recovery efforts continue and the full picture of this ruinous disaster becomes clear,” the Senators continued.

“Although the true level of devastation is still unfolding, it is clear that Congress must act to meet the unmet needs in our states and address the scope and scale of destruction experienced by our constituents. This may even require Congress to come back in October to ensure we have enough time to enact legislation before the end of this calendar year. Tens of millions of Americans were impacted by Hurricane Helene, and we look forward to working with you to provide relief to those impacted by this horrific storm,” the Senators concluded.

CO-SPONSORS:

Senators Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) also signed the letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/icymi-blackburn-speaks-with-wjhl-in-flooding-aftermath,ICYMI: Blackburn Speaks with WJHL in Flooding Aftermath,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 about the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in communities across East Tennessee and the federal government’s response to the crisis:

Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11 about Hurricane Helene.

Blackburn, Hagerty, Harshbarger tour flood damage and answer questions

Anslee Daniel

WJHL News Channel 11

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn spent the day touring damaged areas in Northeast Tennessee, speaking to those impacted and answering questions.

Local leaders, including U.S. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, joined them at the destroyed I-26 bridge in Unicoi County to survey the damage and hear an update on recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Interviews with Blackburn, Hagerty and Harshbarger can be watched below:

LINK TO SENATOR BLACKBURN INTERVIEW

RELATED:

Blackburn, Tillis, Colleagues Make Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Legislation

Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Survey Storm Damage and Meet with Flood Victims in East Tennessee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/blackburn-tennessee-officials-survey-storm-damage-and-meet-with-flood-victims-in-east-tennessee,"Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Survey Storm Damage and Meet with Flood Victims in East Tennessee",2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) surveyed storm damage and met with flood victims and local officials across East Tennessee, which has been significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene. Senator Blackburn visited a shelter at Elizabethton High School, a residential neighborhood cleanup in Hampton, and a distribution center at Southside Freewill Baptist Church in Erwin.

Senator Blackburn, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director Patrick Sheehan, and other Tennessee officials held a media availability at the I-26 East Bridge in Unicoi County over Nolichucky River.

“Throughout the day, I heard from families, local officials, first responders, and volunteers who have seen and experienced devastating loss in the wake of Hurricane Helene. It was heartbreaking to hear from Tennesseans who lost everything due to this tragedy. We will continue to work with federal, state, and local officials to make sure impacted families have the support they urgently need. We will not allow the federal government to neglect Tennesseans and will ensure all resources are provided to help folks rebuild.” – Senator Blackburn

Click hereto download photos from Senator Blackburn’s stops in Carter County and Unicoi County.

RELATED:

Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Updated Disaster Declaration Requesting Additional Assistance Following Hurricane Helene

Sen. Blackburn, Gov. Lee, Rep. Harshbarger Survey Storm Damage in East Tennessee

Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Disaster Declaration Following Hurricane Helene Flash Flooding",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-leads-tennessee-delegation-in-urging-swift-approval-of-updated-disaster-declaration-requesting-additional-assistance-following-hurricane-helene,Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Updated Disaster Declaration Requesting Additional Assistance Following Hurricane Helene,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"ERWIN, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led the Tennessee Congressional delegation in sending a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to swiftly approve Governor Bill Lee’s request for an updated major disaster declaration in the wake of flash flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene.

Governor Lee requested individual assistance and other necessary federal resources to respond to the devastation from Hurricane Helene. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial assistance and direct services to eligible individuals and households affected by a disaster, who have uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and serious needs.

Read full the letter here or below.

Dear Mr. President:

We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather beginning on September 26, 2024.

The remnants of Hurricane Helene have caused widespread damage across Tennessee, especially in East Tennessee. The unprecedented amount of rainfall in the region had devastating consequences, with some areas receiving up to 12 inches of rainfall. Multiple rivers in the state neared or exceeded historical flood stage records, and multiple dams overtopped or were under imminent threat of failure. Catastrophic flash flooding has devastated communities across East Tennessee, causing I-40 to collapse and leaving homes destroyed, businesses underwater, and widespread power outages. In fact, many areas are expected to be without power for weeks. As of September 30, approximately 20 water treatment facilities reported disruptions, impacting over 160,000 Tennesseans. 77 school districts experienced disruptions due to the extreme weather event. Sadly, the Tennessee Department of Health attributed the flooding to the deaths of six Tennesseans, and the search continues for over 100 individuals in impacted counties. We are grateful to the heroic actions of first responders on the local, state, and federal level for their work up to this point.

To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting Individual Assistance for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington Counties. He is also requesting Public Assistance, including direct Federal assistance, for Carter, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington Counties, and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The Governor further requests 100 percent federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective services—Categories A and B—under the Public Assistance program for the first 45 days of the incident, beginning on September 26, 2024. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible.

Our offices can provide you with any additional information you need.

CO-SIGNERS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/blackburn-leads-tennessee-delegation-in-urging-swift-approval-of-disaster-declaration-following-hurricane-helene-flash-flooding,Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Disaster Declaration Following Hurricane Helene Flash Flooding,2024-09-28,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led the Tennessee delegation in sending a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to swiftly approve Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration in the wake of flash flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene.

Read the full letter here or below.

Dear Mr. President:

We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather occurring on September 26 and 27, 2024.

The remnants of Hurricane Helene have caused widespread damage across Tennessee, especially in East Tennessee. An estimated 6 to 10 inches of rain has fallen across the eastern part of the state over the past 48 hours. Catastrophic flash flooding has devastated communities across East Tennessee, causing I-40 to collapse and leaving homes destroyed. The Unicoi County Hospital has been inundated with flood waters, and patients and staff were forced to take shelter on the roof to await rescue. Over 75,500 power outages were reported statewide. With the heaviest rains expected to shift through Middle and West Tennessee over the weekend, more damage is expected.

To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting an Emergency Declaration, Categories A and B, including Direct Federal Assistance. Governor Lee’s request is attached. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible.

Our offices can provide you with any additional information you need.

CO-SIGNERS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/sen-blackburn-gov-lee-rep-harshbarger-survey-storm-damage-in-east-tennessee,"Sen. Blackburn, Gov. Lee, Rep. Harshbarger Survey Storm Damage in East Tennessee",2024-09-28,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), along with Governor Bill Lee, Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Tenn.), and Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director Patrick Sheehan surveyed storm damage and met with local officials in East Tennessee.

“I am heartbroken by the devastating damage in East Tennessee caused by the horrific storm. Thank you to our first responders, Tennessee National Guard, TEMA, and the countless other agencies that have been working around the clock to rescue Tennesseans.” – Senator Blackburn

Click here to view Senator Blackburn’s remarks following tour of storm damage.

Following the devastating damage, Senator Blackburn led the entire Tennessee Congressional delegation in swiftly securing federal assistance.

RELATED:

Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Disaster Declaration Following Hurricane Helene Flash Flooding

Blackburn Statement on Flash Flooding Emergency in Tennessee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/blackburn-statement-on-flash-flooding-emergency-in-tennessee,Blackburn Statement on Flash Flooding Emergency in Tennessee,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement on the impact of flash flooding and severe weather caused by Hurricane Helene in Tennessee:

“All Tennesseans impacted by flash flooding and severe weather should follow local guidance and evacuation protocols carefully. We are working with local officials to ensure public safety, and I encourage every Tennessean to avoid dangerous areas and heed the direction of emergency personnel if traveling. We stand ready to assist and help secure any federal assistance that may be necessary,” said Senator Blackburn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/immigration/blackburn-to-schumer-bring-the-save-act-to-a-vote,Blackburn to Schumer: Bring the SAVE Act to a Vote,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) urged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to secure U.S. elections by allowing a vote on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which she co-sponsored.

This legislation would ensure that only U.S. citizens participate in federal elections by requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration across the country. It passed the House over the summer and was introduced in the Senate by Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) earlier this year.

Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks on the Senate floor about the SAVE Act.

REMARKS AS PREPARED:

Over the Years, Thousands of Illegal Immigrants Have Been Discovered on U.S. Voter Rolls

“In America, nothing is more fundamental to preserving our God-given freedoms—as equal citizens—than fair and open elections.

But for more than three years, we have seen the Biden-Harris administration wage a war on this sacred institution by making illegal immigration legal.

Under this administration, there have been more than 10.2 million illegal crossings—with countless illegal aliens receiving government benefits, including drivers’ licenses and state IDs.

Of course, illegal aliens can break the law and use state IDs to register to vote.

In fact, over the years, thousands of aliens have been discovered on voter rolls from Massachusetts to Arizona and everywhere in between.”

In 14 States Across the Country, Voters Are Not Required to Show ID at the Polls

“Under Republican leadership, Virginia has discovered and removed more than 6,000 aliens from its voter rolls in less than three years.

On top of this, in 14 states across the country, voters aren’t required to show any form of identification at the polls.

One thing is clear: While it is against the law for illegal aliens to vote in federal elections, many states and jurisdictions lack the proper safeguards to enforce the law—and ensure that not a single illegal alien can vote in our elections.”

Amid Skyrocketing Illegal Immigration Under Biden-Harris, the SAVE Act Would Require Proof of Citizenship for Voter Registration

“The risk is especially high with the millions of illegals now in our country because of the Biden-Harris Open Border.

Our SAVE Act would solve this problem.

This bill would require states to obtain documentary proof of U.S. citizenship—in person—before allowing an individual to register to vote for a federal election.

The SAVE Act also has crucial provisions to restore election integrity.

It would require states to establish programs to remove aliens from their voter rolls.

It would also allow citizens to sue election officials who fail to uphold requirements for proof of citizenship.”

Senate Democrat Leadership Has Refused to Allow Vote on the SAVE Act

“The House passed this important legislation in July—but for two months, Senate Democrat leadership have refused to bring this bill up for a vote.

What about this bill could they possibly oppose?

Do they want foreign nationals voting in federal elections?

Do they want illegal aliens voting in federal elections?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/education/blackburn-kelly-cornyn-baldwin-introduce-bill-to-stop-school-bus-manufacturers-tied-to-chinese-communist-party-from-receiving-federal-funding,"Blackburn, Kelly, Cornyn, Baldwin Introduce Bill to Stop School Bus Manufacturers Tied to Chinese Communist Party from Receiving Federal Funding",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) introduced the Secure School Buses Act to ensure school bus manufacturers tied to foreign entities and countries of concern, including the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), do not receive federal funding:

“Under current law, federal funding for public transit is banned from going to companies tied to U.S. adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party, but the requirements do not apply to federal funding for school buses,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Secure School Buses Act would close this dangerous loophole and safeguard national security and our nation’s students.”

“The Clean School Bus Program has provided school districts in Arizona and throughout the country opportunities to modernize their school bus fleets, while supporting bus manufacturers based here in the United States,” said Senator Kelly. “This bill ensures companies that receive state support from the Chinese government can’t take advantage of this program to unfairly compete against American manufacturers. We’ve taken these same steps to protect public transit systems, and now it’s time we apply the same standard to the buses carrying our kids to school every day.”

“It is unacceptable for adversarial nations to receive any benefit at the expense of American taxpayers,” said Senator Cornyn. “This bill would prohibit federal dollars from going to subsidiaries and spin-offs of predatory entities in China and other countries of concern that don’t have our interests at heart, and I’m glad to support it.”

“When we use taxpayer dollars, we should be investing those dollars back into American businesses, workers, and communities – not sending money overseas to adversaries like China,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m proud to work with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to ensure taxpayer investments in our children’s school buses won't line the pockets of bad actors like China and give them a competitive edge over our workers and businesses.”

BACKGROUND:

Several years ago, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the Clean School Bus Program to replace existing school buses with electric models. According to the EPA, they have awarded almost $3 billion in taxpayer funds through this program. Troublingly, certain companies in the electric bus industry have ties to the CCP and other foreign entities of concern.

Localities can currently use their federal funding to purchase buses from companies with ties to these foreign entities of concern, with some of these companies marketing buses specifically for the Clean School Bus Program. In the past, Congress has made clear that no federal taxpayer dollars should go to companies with ties to our adversaries.

While federal funds are prohibited from going to companies with ties to the CCP and other foreign entities of concern for public transit, there are no such prohibitions for the procurement of school buses. If these products are not safe enough for public transit, they certainly are not safe enough for our nation’s children.

Senator Blackburn has worked extensively on the national security risks posed by Chinese-made connected cars and electric vehicles proliferating in the United States, due to many Chinese companies’ subservience to the CCP. The same holds true for these electric bus companies with ties to the CCP and other foreign entities of concern.

SECURE SCHOOL BUSES ACT:

The Secure School Buses Act would prohibit the award of federal grant funding to school bus manufacturers with certain ties to a foreign entity of concern.

This legislation is endorsed by the Alliance for American Manufacturing and Heritage Action.

RELATED:

Blackburn, Peters Probe Chinese Automakers on Ties to the Chinese Communist Party to Safeguard U.S. Security",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/jobs-and-economy/senate-passes-blackburn-kaine-resolution-designating-october-as-national-country-music-month,"Senate Passes Blackburn, Kaine Resolution Designating October as “National Country Music Month”",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of the Senate’s passage of her resolution with Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) to designate the month of October as “National Country Music Month.”

This resolution honors the contributions of country music to the story and history of the U.S. and encourages the American people to observe “National Country Music Month” with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks on the Senate floor about her “National Country Music Month” resolution.

REMARKS AS PREPARED:

Next Month, Country Music Association Will Add John Anderson, James Burton, and Toby Keith to Country Music Hall of Fame

“Each year since 1961, the Country Music Association has inducted the legendary performers, songwriters, and artists of this uniquely American musical tradition into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

In many ways, this distinction is the highest honor in country music—with names like Hank Williams, Chet Atkins, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley among its roll of honor.

Next month, three new names will join this legendary group during the Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony: John Anderson—a force for traditionalism in country music who achieved twenty Top Ten country singles across a five-decade-long career. James Burton—who is considered one of the greatest guitarists in all of music, performing and recording with the likes of Elvis, Merle Haggard, John Denver, and Emmylou Harris. And the late Toby Kieth—an exceptional storyteller who brought joy to millions around the world through his music, especially to our men and women in uniform.”

Country Music Reminds Every American of the Importance of Faith, Family, Freedom, Hope, Opportunity, and Patriotism

“While each artist has their own distinct sound and style, they share a music tradition that reminds every American of the things that truly matter: faith, family, freedom, hope, opportunity, and patriotism.

To honor this incredible genre, I come to the floor today to call for a unanimous consent vote for my resolution that would designate October 2024 as ‘National Country Music Month.’”

Blackburn Honors Grand Ole Opry as “Home of American Music”

“There’s a reason the Grand Ole Opry, the most famous stage in country music, is known as the ‘home of American music.’

Now is the perfect time for Congress to honor the contributions of country music—and its legendary performers and artists—to the story and history of the United States.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/blackburn-probes-big-tech-platforms-after-cox-media-group-admits-it-listens-to-users-phone-conversations,Blackburn Probes Big Tech Platforms After Cox Media Group Admits It Listens to Users’ Phone Conversations,2024-09-24,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent three letters to the leadership of Cox Media Group and its clients, Google and Meta, following reporting that Cox Media Group admitted to investors that it listens to users’ smartphone microphones using “Active Listening” software.

According to this reporting, Cox Media Group claimed the company targets advertisements based on phone conversations of potential customers and identified specific clients during a slide deck presentation to investors, including Google and Meta. Both Google and Meta have a troublesome history of ignoring consumer privacy.

Cox Media Group Admitted It Uses Artificial Intelligence to Listen to Phone Conversations

“I write today with concerns following recent reporting by the New York Post that Cox Media Group has admitted to investors that it deploys ‘active listening’ software, which uses artificial intelligence to ‘capture real-time intent data by listening to [users] phone conversations.’”

Reporting Confirms Longstanding Concerns Held by Consumers about Online Privacy

“Consumers have long expressed concerns about their privacy in the virtual space and how their data is misused. If this reporting is true, it confirms longstanding suspicions by many consumers that technology and media companies are violating their privacy for profit by marketing products that closely reflect key words or phrases from private conversations. It is imperative that consumers have the ability to clearly opt in and out of features that track their behavior and that they are alerted when these features are deployed. I request a copy of the slide deck presented to investors.”

Blackburn Demands Google and Meta Reveal Extent “Active Listening” Tools Were Deployed on Users

“I am seeking answers regarding Google’s [and Meta’s] relationship with Cox Media Group, the extent to which, if at all, ‘active listening’ tools were deployed on users, the steps Google [and Meta] [are] taking to investigate the products and services from Cox Media Group used by Google [and on Facebook] and the extent to which those products may have violated any applicable privacy policies or user agreements [and users’ privacy].”

BACKGROUND:

Last year, Google settled a $5 billion lawsuit claiming it “secretly tracked the internet use of millions of people who thought they were doing their browsing privately.” This is not the first time Google has seen legal action for violating consumers’ privacy rights. A search engine with the reach of Google must prioritize the privacy of its users and use diligence when handling their data.

In 2019, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) imposed a $5 billion penalty on Facebook for violating consumers’ privacy. Then-FTC Chairman Joe Simons said of Facebook, “despite repeated promises to its billions of users worldwide that they could control how their personal information is shared, Facebook undermined consumers’ choices.” This long-demonstrated pattern of public reassurances by Meta directly contradicts the company’s record of flagrant disregard for user privacy.

RELATED:

ICYMI: Senator Blackburn Pushes Big Tech For Answers On Their Predatory Privacy Practices

Blackburn, Wicker Introduce Federal Data Privacy Legislation

Clickhere to view the letter to Meta Platforms Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

Clickhere to view the letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/health-care/video-blackburn-discusses-fentanyl-epidemic-with-tennessee-mom-who-lost-her-17-year-old-son,VIDEO: Blackburn Discusses Fentanyl Epidemic with Tennessee Mom Who Lost Her 17-Year-Old Son,2024-09-23,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video detailing her conversation with a Middle Tennessee mother named Kathy, who tragically lost her 17-year-old son, Vaughn-Thomas, after he unknowingly took a pill laced with fentanyl.

Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn’s conversation about the fentanyl epidemic with Kathy.

“Most all of us know at least one person through friends, through family that has been affected, their lives have been torn apart by fentanyl. Over 100,000 Americans a year die [from drug overdoses], and it’s primarily fentanyl. The precursors come from China into Mexico, and then drug cartels bring it into the country. What we know is that across our great state, there are so many physicians and nurses and healthcare professionals who are on the front line of this every day. That is why we say thank you to our law enforcement and our healthcare community for the work that they are doing to fight back against fentanyl.” – Senator Blackburn

“Vaughn-Thomas… was our firstborn, our oldest of three sons. He was very strong in his faith, he loved his friends, he was a good student, he was athletic, he loved golf – life was going really well for him… He was supposed to play golf with his dad the next day, and when Vaughn-Thomas didn’t wake up to his alarm, that’s when we found him. He took what he thought was a Xanax – it was a counterfeit Xanax. Our borders are inviting tragedy into the lives of our children. One mistake should not have been a death sentence for Vaughn-Thomas.” – Kathy

BACKGROUND:

Fentanyl poisoning is the leading cause of death for Americans age 18-45.

According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), CBP’s fentanyl seizures increased more than 860% from fiscal years 2019 to 2023, and they nearly doubled from fiscal years 2022 to 2023.

Just last month, CBP officers in Arizona seized roughly 4 million blue fentanyl pills – weighing more than 1,000 pounds and the largest singular fentanyl seizure in CBP history.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/veterans/blackburn-sullivan-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-hold-va-accountable-for-financial-shortfall,"Blackburn, Sullivan, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Hold VA Accountable for Financial Shortfall",2024-09-23,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and 12 of their Senate colleagues in introducing the Protecting Regular Order (PRO) for Veterans Act to hold the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) accountable for the Veterans Benefits Administration’s (VBA) nearly $3 billion budget shortfall and the $12 billion projected shortfall in Fiscal Year 2025 for VA medical care.

Last week during a Senate Veterans Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Blackburn questioned the VA’s Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs and Under Secretary for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal on the VA’s gross mismanagement of federal funds.

“The VA’s budget shortfall that put millions of veterans’ benefits at risk is only the agency’s latest failure to responsibly manage federal funds under the Biden-Harris administration’s leadership, and it proves the VA needs to be subject to greater accountability and oversight,” said Senator Blackburn. “This legislation would require the VA to provide regular, in-person budget reports to Congress to ensure they are properly managing taxpayer dollars.”

PROTECTING REGULAR ORDER FOR VETERANS ACT:

This legislation would institute a three-year requirement for the VA to submit quarterly in-person budget reports to Congress to give federal legislators the opportunity to ask questions and strengthen oversight and accountability of the VA.

Earlier this year, a watchdog report found that the VA improperly awarded $10.8 million in bonuses to senior executives at its central office.

If there are VA budget shortfalls outside of regular order, this legislation would restrict bonuses for Senior Executive Service (SES) employees in the VA’s central office as well as employees at the Office of Management and Budget.

CO-SPONSORS:

This legislation is also co-sponsored by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).

RELATED:

Blackburn, Moran, Boozman Introduce Legislation to Restrict Bonuses to Senior Executives at VA

Blackburn Leads Letter to Hold VA Accountable for Misusing Taxpayer Dollars

Blackburn To Biden’s VA: Putting Illegal Immigrants Above America’s Veterans Is Unacceptable",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/israel/blackburn-graham-rubio-colleagues-condemn-palestinian-effort-targeting-israel-at-un,"Blackburn, Graham, Rubio, Colleagues Condemn Palestinian Effort Targeting Israel at UN",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and 27 of their Republican colleagues issued a joint statement in response to the Palestinian Mission to the United Nations (UN) submitting a disgraceful and flagrant resolution. This resolution was submitted ahead of the UN General Assembly and targets the Jewish State of Israel and its rightful control over its historic homeland.

The Senators wrote, “This proposal introduced by the Palestinian delegation, ahead of the United Nations’ General Assembly, is an absolute disgrace that rewards terrorism. It is a clear insult to the Jewish people and anyone who understands history.”

Senators continued, “As we approach the one-year anniversary of the barbaric terrorist attack by Hamas and affiliated Palestinian terrorist groups against innocent Israeli civilians, which involved murder, mutilation, and sexual violence, the international community must unequivocally unite against this evil, one-sided effort to delegitimize Israel. Instead of proposing biased and counter-productive initiatives, which will do nothing to advance a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, the international community must focus its energy and resources on ensuring Hamas and other terrorist groups are completely destroyed. We must remain firm to ensure every single hostage held by these terrorists is safely returned to their loved ones.”

CO-SIGNERS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/blackburn-blumenthal-statement-on-house-energy-and-commerce-committee-s-passage-of-kids-online-safety-act,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Passage of Kids Online Safety Act",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s passage of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act:

“Children are dying every single day at the hands of social media companies. The House Energy and Commerce Committee’s passage of KOSA is a positive step towards protecting our children online. While we still have more work to do on KOSA, we are pleased that we are one step closer to having this legislation signed into law before the end of the 118th Congress. We applaud Chairwoman McMorris-Rodgers (R-Wash.) for moving forward with the Kids Online Safety Act and thank her and her staff for their hard work on this legislation, along with Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) and Kathy Castor (D-Fla.).” – Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal

BACKGROUND:",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/crime/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates:

“Last year, nearly half of surveyed Bureau of Prisons staff stated they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by an inmate. This statistic is appalling and unacceptable. No federal employee or law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work, and the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act would be an important step forward in ending sexual abuse of prison staff who are simply trying to do their jobs,” said Senator Blackburn.

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

BACKGROUND:

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

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

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

THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT:

The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act would require:

The DOJ OIG to conduct a comprehensive statistical review and analysis of the incidence and effects of sexual harassment and assault perpetrated by federal inmates against BOP staff;

The U.S. Attorney General to report the findings of the Inspector General’s review to Congress; and

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

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

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

RELATED:

Blackburn, Ossoff Launch Inquiry to Protect Federal Prison Staff from Sexual Assault and Harassment",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/health-care/blackburn-casey-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-lift-restriction-on-care-for-people-with-disabilities,"Blackburn, Casey Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Lift Restriction on Care for People with Disabilities",2024-09-18,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, introduced the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-In Programs Act. The bipartisan bill would lift a restriction that prevents people with disabilities from buying-in to Medicaid after they turn 65.

“Americans with disabilities should be able to continue working without losing coverage or care through Medicaid when they turn 65,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-In Program Act would ensure adults with disabilities over the age of 65 can continue to work without sacrificing their Medicaid coverage and benefits.”

“People with disabilities deserve to be given the resources and support they need to live and work independently no matter their age,” said Chairman Casey. “The Medicaid buy-in program is a critical way for many people with disabilities to receive that support, and should not be restricted to those under 65. This new bipartisan bill will prevent people with disabilities from being forced into retirement just to maintain access to the support they need to live independently.”

BACKGROUND:

The Medicaid buy-in program allows people with disabilities to access daily long-term care services that most employer-sponsored insurance plans do not typically cover, but currently has an age limit of 65, forcing many people with disabilities to retire in order to maintain Medicaid coverage. Senators Casey and Blackburn’s bill would remove that restriction, allowing people with disabilities to continue to work as long as they wish while receiving Medicaid to support their independence.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/immigration/video-senator-blackburn-discusses-deadly-impacts-of-open-border-with-tennessee-law-enforcement,VIDEO: Senator Blackburn Discusses Deadly Impacts of Open Border with Tennessee Law Enforcement,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video about the deadly impacts of our wide-open border on counties across our state. Since day one in office, the Biden-Harris administration has sought to make illegal immigration legal. During President Biden and Vice President Harris’ first 100 days in office, they issued 94 executive orders to implement their open-border agenda.

Human and drug trafficking networks organized by Mexican cartels are infiltrating communities and putting Americans in danger. In January, Cheatham County Drug Unit authorities stated that Nashville had become a hub for drug trafficking, citing a lack of resources for special drug units and the record number of people illegally crossing our southern border. The Biden-Harris administration’s failed policies are to blame for the border crisis and the death of countless Americans due to fentanyl poisoning and violent crimes committed by dangerous individuals illegally crossing the southern border.

Click here to download this video.

“Every time I travel to counties across our state, I hear about how drug and human trafficking at the southern border is impacting local communities. The disastrous policies implemented by the Biden-Harris administration have contributed to fentanyl deaths, human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and violent crimes committed by illegal aliens. Under this administration, every town is a border town, and every state is a border state,” said Senator Blackburn.

BACKGROUND:

The Biden-Harris administration ended Title 42, terminated President Trump’s successful “Remain in Mexico” policy, and brought back catch-and-release policies.

As a result, over 10 million people have illegally crossed the southern border since the Biden-Harris administration took office.

Over 1.7 million known “gotaways” have evaded U.S. Border Patrol.

Nearly 100 illegal immigrants on the terrorist watchlist have been released into the country under the Biden-Harris administration’s watch.

This devastating crisis has impacted every single state across the country, including Tennessee.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/blackburn-statement-on-instagram-child-safety-changes-ahead-of-house-kosa-markup,Blackburn Statement on Instagram Child Safety Changes Ahead of House KOSA Markup,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement following Instagram’s announcement of new child safety changes ahead of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s markup of the Kids Online Safety Act:

“If anyone needed further proof that Big Tech has no interest in actually protecting our children, the timing of Instagram’s announcement on the eve of a House markup of the Kids Online Safety Act is it. Just like clockwork, the Kids Online Safety Act moves forward and industry comes out with a new set of self-enforcing guidelines. We applaud Chairwoman McMorris-Rodgers for moving forward with the Kids Online Safety Act and thank her and her staff for their hard work on this legislation, along with Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.), Kathy Castor (D-Fla.) and Erin Houchin (R-Ind.).” – Senator Blackburn",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/women/senate-democrats-block-blackburn-s-effort-to-establish-american-girls-in-sports-day,Senate Democrats Block Blackburn’s Effort to Establish “American Girls in Sports Day”,2024-09-17,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) urged her Senate colleagues to stand with female athletes by designating October 10 as “American Girls in Sports Day.” Senate Democrats blocked the resolution in favor of the Biden-Harris administration’s radical agenda to allow biological males to compete in women’s sports by dismantling Title IX. Nearly 70% of Americans agree, athletes should only be allowed to compete on sports teams that correspond with the sex they were assigned at birth.

Senator Blackburn’s resolution is co-sponsored by 37 Senators and has been endorsed by many key advocates for female athletes, including Riley Gaines, Caitlyn Jenner, and Sage Steele.

Click hereto download video of Sen. Blackburn discussing “American Girls in Sports Day” and here to view it.

REMARKS AS PREPARED:

Athletics Create Opportunities and Offer Life Lessons for Young Women

“Across our country, more than 3 million female high school and college athletes compete, practice, and train every day to achieve athletic success.

For many of these young women and girls, their sports are more than just a game: They are life-long passions that improve their physical health, boost their self-confidence, and teach them the leadership skills to succeed on and off the field.

In short, women’s athletics has done incredible things for women.”

The Biden-Harris Administration Waged War on Women’s Sports by Overhauling Title IX

“Which is why it is so deeply disturbing to see the Biden-Harris administration wage a war on women’s sports.

In their crosshairs: Title IX— the landmark civil rights law that codified protections on the basis of sex.

By requiring equal resources for training, recruitment, and scholarships for female athletic programs, Title IX led to an explosion of women’s participation in sports.

In fact, since 1972, the year Title IX became law, the number of female college athletes increased by a factor of seven, while the number of female high school athletes has increased more than ten-fold.

Yet for years we have seen this administration undermine the very Title IX provisions that enabled greater women’s participation in sports.

In 2022— on the 50th anniversary of Title IX—the Department of Education announced new rules that force schools to allow biological males to play on female teams.

And just in April, the administration redefined ‘discrimination’ to allow biological men to use women-only locker rooms and bathrooms.

Are Tennesseans and the American people really expected to believe that this is okay?

You do not need to be a biologist to understand that there are fundamental biological differences between men and women.

And when it comes to sports, these differences undermine fair play, erase women’s hard-earned achievements, and put female athletes in danger.”

Blackburn Commends Young Women for Bravely Speaking Out Against the Biden-Harris Administration’s Radical Agenda

“Thankfully, many young women are bravely speaking out against the Biden-Harris administration’s radical agenda, including Tennessee’s Riley Gaines.

In 2021, Riley was forced to compete against—and share a locker room with—a biological male during the NCAA Women's Swimming & Diving Championships.

During the 200-meter competition, Riley tied for fifth with her male competitor. But when Riley went to the award ceremony to pick up her trophy, officials told Riley that they were giving the fifth-place trophy to the biological male.

‘Yours will be coming in the mail,’ they told Riley.

This should never happen in the United States of America.”

Blackburn Urges Senate Colleagues to Stand with Female Athletes to Establish “American Girls in Sports Day”

“Now more than ever, Congress should stand with the female athletes fighting for fair play and celebrate the incredible contributions women have made to the world of sports.

That’s why I’m calling for unanimous consent for my resolution to establish October 10 as ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’

Of course, we picked that date for a special reason: As the 10th day of the 10th month, October 10 is represented by the roman numerals XX—the same numerals of the female sex chromosome.

In the last 50 years, female athletes have gone from the sidelines to the center stage of competition. As we continue to fight for women’s participation in sports, we must keep in mind what is at stake—and the ‘American Girls in Sports Day’ resolution will help ensure that happens.

I urge all my colleagues to support it.”

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/crime/blackburn-to-secret-service-two-assassination-attempts-on-former-president-in-two-months-is-unfathomable-and-unacceptable,Blackburn to Secret Service: Two Assassination Attempts on Former President in Two Months is ‘Unfathomable and Unacceptable’,2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe urging the agency to provide former President Trump with the same level of protection that it provides a sitting president following the second apparent attempt to assassinate the former President in two months:

Two Assassination Attempts Against a Major Presidential Candidate in Two Months is Unacceptable

“While we are still awaiting more details about this horrific event, I am thankful that the perpetrator was unsuccessful and the Secret Service agent acted swiftly to ensure that the former president is safe. But one thing is abundantly clear: within the span of a mere two months, there have been two assassination attempts against a major presidential candidate and former president in the United States of America. It is unfathomable and unacceptable that this incident occurred.”

Secret Service Must Elevate Former President Trump’s Security Detail and Level of Protection

“I urge you to immediately elevate President Trump’s security detail to the same level of protection that the Secret Service provides to a sitting President of the United States. As you know, incumbent presidents receive the highest level of Secret Service protection, while former presidents and presidential candidates are afforded lower levels of security that vary depending on the threat level to the protectee. Following the tragic first assassination attempt that occurred on July 13, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas confirmed that the Secret Service enhanced President Trump’s level of protection. But, put simply, that security enhancement was still not enough to prevent an unimaginable second assassination attempt.”

Americans Deserve to Know Exactly How the Secret Service Will Right This Wrong

“In your testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee in July, you promised to ‘implement meaningful change’ following the Butler assassination attempt. That meaningful change is long overdue… The American people deserve answers about what actions the Secret Service will be taking to right this wrong, and I hope and expect that you will provide public congressional testimony on this tragic event.”

RELATED:

Blackburn to Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Durbin: Call Secret Service Director, DHS Secretary, FBI Director to Testify on Assassination Attempt on President Trump

Blackburn Renews Call for Secret Service Director Cheatle to Resign Following House Oversight Committee Hearing",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/icymi-new-polling-shows-massive-public-support-for-the-kids-online-safety-act,***ICYMI*** NEW POLLING SHOWS MASSIVE PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR THE KIDS ONLINE SAFETY ACT,2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, a new poll shows that the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, sponsored by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), has massive support across the political spectrum. The poll, released this week by Issue One’s Council for Responsible Social Media, ParentsSOS, and Fairplay found that 86 percent of U.S. voters support the Kids Online Safety Act. Support for the bill crosses partisan lines, with 87 percent of Republicans, 88 percent of Democrats, and 82 percent of independents in favor of it. 76 percent of Republican voters are also more likely to vote for a candidate of Congress that supports the Kids Online Safety Act.

The poll also found that the public has serious concerns about Big Tech’s harms to kids. Ninety percent of the electorate believes that it is important to combat the harms being caused by social media platforms, and nearly nine in ten voters (88 percent) believe the government should pass laws to enact safeguards. Nearly all voters (93 percent) agree that mental health challenges facing young people today are a serious issue, and 67 percent believe that social media has made child and teen mental health worse today than 15 years ago.

“The Kids Online Safety Act provides parents and young people the tools they need to protect themselves against Big Tech causing life-changing harm; 91 to 3—that is the margin by which we passed the legislation in the Senate. The overwhelming bipartisan support from our colleagues and the American public demonstrates that the time is now to hold Big Tech accountable for putting profits over safety, and we will continue in this fight to make social media a safer place for our nation’s children,” said Blackburn and Blumenthal.

More information about the newly released poll can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/video-why-we-must-pass-the-kids-online-safety-act,VIDEO: Why We Must Pass The Kids Online Safety Act,2024-09-16,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a heart-wrenching video showcasing the urgent need to pass the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act to save lives.

Senator Blackburn sat down with Kathy, a Middle Tennessee mom, who shared her tragic story of how her 17-year-old son, Vaughn-Thomas, bought a pill likely on Snapchat that was unknowingly laced with fentanyl and was poisoned.

Watch Kathy’s story to learn why Congress must pass KOSA here.

Vaughn-Thomas Was a Good Student and an Athlete

“He was very strong in his faith, he loved his friends, he was a good student, he was athletic, [and] he loved golf. Life was going really well for him.” – Kathy

The Last Time Kathy Saw Her Son – “Good Night, I Love You”

“[On] December 1st, I had put up some Christmas decorations and I had gone to pick up my youngest at basketball practice. Vaughn-Thomas texted me he was hungry, he just got through working out at the gym [and he] wanted me to grab him some food. I brought that home to him and we talked a little bit and I gave him a big hug and said ‘good night I love you’ and he hugged me back and said ‘I love you more.’ That was the last time I talked to him.” – Kathy

Vaughn-Thomas Was Poisoned from a Pill Likely Bought on Snapchat

“When Vaughn-Thomas didn't wake up to his alarm, that's when we found him. He took what he thought was a Xanax, it was a counterfeit Xanax [laced with fentanyl]. He [may have acquired] some of that via Snapchat. One mistake should not have been a death sentence for Vaughn-Thomas.” – Kathy

BACKGROUND:

KOSA would specifically help mitigate social media being used to push drugs such as fentanyl onto our children.

KOSA includes a “duty of care” that requires social media companies to prevent and mitigate certain harms, including illicit drugs such as fentanyl, that they know their platforms and products are causing young users to be exposed to as a result of their own design choices, such as their recommendation algorithms and addictive product features.

In July, the Senate voted 91-3 in favor of KOSA.

RELATED:

Blackburn Announces Growing Conservative Momentum for the Kids Online Safety Act",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/crime/blackburn-ossoff-launch-inquiry-to-protect-federal-prison-staff-from-sexual-assault-and-harassment,"Blackburn, Ossoff Launch Inquiry to Protect Federal Prison Staff from Sexual Assault and Harassment",2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) launched a bipartisan inquiry to protect federal prison staff from sexual assault and harassment. Their letter to Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Colette Peters follows reports of inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment.

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

“The DOJ OIG report, as well as personal testimony BOP staff has provided to my office, strongly suggest that BOP’s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault/harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees,” the Senators wrote.

BACKGROUND:

As part of their inquiry, the Senators requested that BOP release information about their inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment reporting procedures, correctional methods, and staff assistance programs, including statistics and data from FCI Atlanta, formerly USP Atlanta, and federal prison facilities around the country.

Last year, Senator Blackburn co-sponsored the Federal Prisons Accountability Act to increase federal oversight and accountability of the federal prison system.

Tennessee houses one federal prison—Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Memphis—in Shelby County.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/crime/video-senator-blackburn-raises-the-alarm-on-soft-on-crime-practices,VIDEO: Senator Blackburn Raises the Alarm on Soft-on-Crime Practices,2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video about the disastrous impact that releasing violent criminals—without bail—back onto our streets has on public safety in cities across the country.

Cash bail is an essential public safety tool that keeps violent offenders off the streets and restores law and order in our communities. In Memphis, a suspect accused of shooting four people was recently released from police custody by Shelby County Judge Bill Anderson without bond. At the end of last year, Judge Anderson also signed off on the release of a man charged with the first-degree murder of 15-year-old Anthony Mason.

Click hereto watch this video andhere to download.

“Allowing dangerous criminals back on the streets and in our communities after they have committed a crime defies common sense. We must put an end to soft-on-crime practices like cashless bail that incentivize violent criminals to reoffend and put public safety at risk,” said Senator Blackburn.

BACKGROUND:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/blackburn-announces-growing-conservative-momentum-for-the-kids-online-safety-act,Blackburn Announces Growing Conservative Momentum for the Kids Online Safety Act,2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) announced new conservative endorsements for the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act she authored with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) to provide young people and parents with the tools, safeguards, and transparency they need to protect against online harms. This legislation is the first major reform to the tech industry since 1998 and passed the Senate with 91 Senators voting in favor of it.

Children face an endless list of online threats, including sexual exploitation, drug trafficking, and the promotion of suicide, eating disorders, and illegal products. The Kids Online Safety Act has garnered support from a strong coalition of conservative stakeholders who are calling on the House of Representatives to quickly take up and pass this legislation before the end of the year.

NEW ENDORSEMENTS:

Kellyanne Conway: “Increasingly, children are vulnerable to online distortion and exploitation due to social media use. Social media can be a force for good, but also lurking there are traffickers, drug dealers and other bad actors. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) would begin to implement concrete measures that ensure our children are protected online and parents are given more control over what their children are viewing. I commend Sen. Marsha Blackburn’s persistent dedication and leadership on KOSA. For the well-being of our children, the health of our nation, and the security of our future, Congress must act now.” – Kellyanne Conway, Chair, Center for the American Child, America First Policy Institute (AFPI), Former Senior Counselor to President Donald J. Trump

Mercedes Schlapp: “Big Tech must be held accountable for refusing to protect children from online harms. When children are online, they are vulnerable to traffickers, child predators, and drug dealers who want to manipulate and harm them. It’s past time for social media platforms to prioritize the safety of children by adding stronger privacy settings and preventing the promotion of harmful content to minors. Keeping children safe is paramount, and I commend Senator Blackburn for standing up against Big Tech and for conservative values.” – Mercedes Schlapp, Former White House Director of Strategic Communications under the Trump Administration

Morgan Ortagus: “The Kids Online Safety Act is a critical step for protecting those who depend on us most for protection—our children. By requiring social media platforms to enable strong private settings by default, our minors will be better defended against the exploitation attempts visible every day on these platforms. As a mother, I am so grateful to Senator Blackburn for standing up for our children and being a leader in this fight.” – Morgan Ortagus, Former U.S. Department of State Spokesperson under the Trump Administration

Mike Huckabee: “I’m delighted to support the heroic efforts that [Senator Blackburn] and Senator Blumenthal are leading in a bi-partisan plan to pass the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). Protecting America’s children is not a political issue, but a public safety concern that transcends the normal horizontal political spectrum of left/right. This is a vertical issue of up and down and KOSA is straight UP for families who are struggling to protect their children from the ‘Wild West’ of online dangers. Those who legitimately have concerns of censorship should realize KOSA does not threaten the First Amendment, but it helps protect children from the very real threat of exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.” – Mike Huckabee, Former Governor of Arkansas

Jonathan Skrmetti: “I appreciate Senator Blackburn’s leadership on this bipartisan effort to protect kids from the worst effects of social media. Algorithmic social media platforms have devastated teen mental health. I’m proud that Senator Blackburn places such a high priority on kids’ online safety.” – Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti

Lynn Fitch: “Social media platforms promise connectivity, but not without consequences. These platforms pose a serious risk to our children and their futures depend on our willingness to protect them in this digital era. It is past time the federal government updated the rules to help parents protect their children from the mental and physical effects of this epidemic. I am proud to support Senator Blackburn’s Kids Online Safety Act to ensure our children receive the protection they desperately need and deserve.” – Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch

Harmeet Dhillon: “Americans have all seen the threat posed by Big Tech companies. I’ve represented clients against big tech companies including Google who fired them for expressing conservative views. I’ve said before that I’m surprised we haven’t seen Washington do more to rein in Big Tech’s excesses, so I’m glad that lawmakers such as Senator Blackburn are stepping up to do so. The Kids Online Safety Act will put rules into place to prevent these platforms from exploiting vulnerable kids and will give families a remedy against the CEOs who offer false apologies but enable these practices for profit and ideological reasons. To be clear: this is not about so-called ‘misinformation,’ although we know tech uses Section 230 as a mechanism to freely censor content that falls outside of their version of the truth. KOSA will address the other side of the coin, tech companies’ effective immunity against real harms caused by publishing others’ content, including sex trafficking of children, drug sales to minors, and kids committing suicide. I commend the Senate for passing this much-needed legislation and look forward to seeing the House pass it soon.” – Harmeet K. Dhillon, Founder and Managing Partner of Dhillon Law Group Inc.

Josh Hammer: “I commend Senator Blackburn and Congressman Bilirakis for their work on the Kids Online Safety Act. At a time where family values are consistently under attack, this legislation takes the right steps to help parents fight back against Big Tech’s exploitation of our children. We know that internet platforms are targeting kids for everything from the solicitation of sex to fentanyl trafficking courtesy of China and the Mexican cartels. Don’t buy Big Tech’s claims to the contrary – it’s time Congress stepped in to regulate Big Tech for the sake of American families.” – Josh Hammer, Senior Editor-at-Large for Newsweek and Host of The Josh Hammer Show

John Yoo: “The Kids Online Safety Act is a critical step forward in the fight to protect our children online. It empowers families with the tools that they need to remain safe online. It holds platforms accountable by creating a targeted duty of care to prevent and mitigate risks to children. The Act falls squarely within the First Amendment, which recognizes the government's compelling interest in preventing the sexual exploitation of children and protecting their physical and emotional well-being. That compelling interest, and the Act's narrowly tailored means, will outweigh any free speech claims from the Big Tech platforms. This bill is not about censorship or content, but about the dangerous features that tech companies have pushed towards America’s children.” – Professor John Yoo, Emanuel Heller Professor of Law at the University of California at Berkeley and Former Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legal Counsel

Paula White-Cain: “As a Pastor and a parent, I affirm that supporting the Kids Online Safety Act is a pro-life value because it protects the dignity and well-being of our children from the relentless exploitation by Big Tech. Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal's bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act is a crucial step in defending our youth from the toxic content, addictive algorithms, and mental health risks that have become rampant online. By demanding stricter privacy settings and greater parental control, this bill stands against those who seek to profit from the vulnerability of our children. We must champion this cause to safeguard the future of our next generation. That is why the National Faith Advisory Board supports the Kids Online Safety Act and urges people of faith, parents and anyone who wants to protect children to voice their support too.” – Pastor Paula White-Cain, President and Founder of the National Faith Advisory Board and Spiritual Advisor to President Donald J. Trump

CONSERVATIVE LEADERS SUPPORT PROTECTING KIDS ONLINE:

Richard Grenell: “The Kids Online Safety Act is pro-family and pro-America. It will help protect children from being exploited online by drug cartels, sex predators, and human traffickers. Big tech has abused conservatives for far too long. I know that big tech will continue spending millions to defeat this legislation, but my good friend [Senator] Marsha Blackburn will not back down.” – Richard Grenell, Former Acting Director of National Intelligence under the Trump Administration

Newt Gingrich: “The Senate should pass the Kids Online Safety Act. It is a vital step toward protecting children.” – Newt Gingrich, Former U.S. Speaker of the House

Sebastian Gorka: “I can’t remember the last time there was 70 plus co-sponsors for a bill in the Senate… God bless Senator Marsha Blackburn. Please follow her right now and express your support for this crucial piece of legislation.” – Sebastian Gorka, Former Deputy Assistant to President Donald J. Trump, Host of “America First with Sebastian Gorka”

America First Policy Institute: “Congrats to the U.S. Senate for passing the Kids Online Safety Act, which empowers parents to make better-informed decisions about their children’s online presence. It’s well past time to stand up for our children from predators, toxic content, exploitation, and more, and this bill would do just that!”

The Heritage Foundation: “Normally I am just an analyst here but today I am a grateful mom. The Senate passed the Kids Online Safety Act by a vote of 91-3. If it is successful in the House, this would be the first concrete piece of legislation aimed at protecting kids online in almost THREE DECADES. Big Tech will finally be held accountable for targeting younger and younger users and parents will finally have a fighting chance against their predations.” – Kara Frederick, Director of the Heritage Foundation Tech Policy Center

Heritage Action: “It’s no secret that big tech companies prey on children’s personal data to keep them addicted to scrolling, regardless of the negative impact on kids and the dangerous content that’s far too easy for them to access. Social media has proven to lead to deteriorated mental health, bullying, harassment, and sexual exploitation. Protecting children and young adults from those threats is one of the biggest issues of our time—Heritage Action applauds Sen. Blackburn for taking up the mantle. The Kids Online Safety Act is an important, unifying bill that holds big tech accountable for their greed and protects American children from exploitation.” – Ryan Walker, Heritage Action Executive Vice President

Concerned Women for America: “The last time that Congress addressed the safety of children online was in 1998, long before the age of social media. Since then, we've seen catastrophic numbers of children exploited on social media platforms that have no protective guardrails. Since these companies have yet to address this issue themselves, Congress needs to act. By introducing common-sense provisions, KOSA is an important first step towards making these platforms safer for minors.” – Penny Nance, President of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee

Parents Defending Education Action: “The bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act will help protect minors and empower parents to have more control over what their children are doing online. [Parents Defending Education Action] is proud to support it.” – Nicki Neily, Executive Director of Parents Defending Education Action

National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE): “#KOSA passing in the Senate is a monumental win for the safety of children online—it is the first time in 25 years that a federal bill on online child protection has been this close to passing! #PassKOSA #ProtectKidsOnline #BigTech.”

Ethics and Public Policy Center: “Parents have been left on their own to try to fend off a massive tech-induced health crisis among today’s tweens and teens, contending against the allure of products engineered to be maximally addictive to their kids. KOSA offers a much-needed solution to ensure parents have the ability to protect their kids online from content that hurts their development and mental health. KOSA will grant children and parents more control over children’s experiences on the platforms and what they see; and prevent tech companies from taking those choices away with the design of their automatic features or algorithms.” – Clare Morell, Head of the Technology and Human Flourishing program for the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC)

The Institute for Family Studies: “Young Americans are suffering from a profound mental health crisis caused by addiction to social media. Big Tech companies have proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they will not reform themselves, but instead, driven by profits, they will do all they can to keep unfettered access to children. The Kids Online Safety Act gives parents and young Americans more effective tools to gain control over their experiences on these platforms to make them more age-appropriate, allowing them to disable the most addictive features. It also imposes upon these Big Tech companies a ‘duty of care’ to ensure that they are not designing their platforms to exploit children. It is time to pass the Kids Online Safety Act. The children of America desperately need it.” – Michael Toscano, Executive Director of the Institute for Family Studies

Wired Human: “The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) makes it clear to Big Tech, that ‘Childhood is Not for Sale.’ With the explosion of AI-driven algorithms, Big Tech is profiting by the billions from the commodification of children online, leading to countless forms of exploitation and harm so severe that children are dying. KOSA’s ability to target the harmful design mechanisms of social media platforms makes it the most reasonable form of child protection legislation I have witnessed. Tech companies that stand against KOSA, stand against America’s children and families at large.” – Jason Frost, LL.M, CEO of Wired Human

American Principles Project: “Some folks like to make a flawed argument that parents and only parents should be concerned with the safety and well-being of their children online — that tech companies and government should bear no responsibility. This is completely unreasonable. Screens are everywhere. Parents obviously cannot shoulder this responsibility alone. Tech platforms specifically should bear responsibility for how they are interacting with minor users and what kinds of content they are making available to them. The Kids Online Safety Act is an important bill that aims to protect kids from some of the worst aspects of the Internet, while providing parents with stronger tools to better direct their children’s online experience.” – Jon Schweppe, Policy Director for American Principles Project.

Digital Progress Institute: “KOSA’s targeted bipartisan approach ensures that parents can protect their kids online from content that hurts their development and mental health. This is something everyone should support. Thank you, [Senator] Blackburn and [Senator] Blumenthal, for your unwavering leadership!” – Joel Thayer, President of Digital Progress Institute

Enough is Enough: “Too many children have been sacrificed online due to the misguided notion that big tech companies get a ‘no responsibility/no accountability free pass’ when it comes to doing their part. EIE offers its highest gratitude to all of the bi-partisan sponsors of KOSA and COPPA 2.0, our allies across America and the survivors and Gold Star parents who have supported these critical bills. Each bill puts a stake in the ground that says ‘Enough Is Enough®!’. It takes all of us, working together to safeguard our children, our future. Remember, making the internet safer for children and families is a marathon, a war. Today's Senate success marks a huge victory!”

Parents Television and Media Council: “We commend the Senate for recognizing the real harms to children online and acting with urgency to ensure that tech platforms are held accountable for protecting our children.” –Melissa Henson, Vice President of the Parents Television and Media Council

Angel AI: “For far too long, we have allowed children to be exploited online by multi-billion dollar Tech Companies that designed their products to addict and monetize kids but too poorly to protect their safety. After over a decade of damage and harms to countless kids from this negligence, enough is enough. KOSA represents the beginning of our Democracy stepping up to defend our kids by setting a standard for age appropriate design of products. Now, like any other mature industry, Tech companies and social media will have liability for the harms they incur through their ongoing negligence. I applaud the many cosponsors of this Bill and look forward to the day it is passed and signed into law. A day that cannot come soon enough for the children of America.” – Tim Estes, CEO of Angel AI

Gingrich 360: “Today, the Senate passed the Kids Online Safety Act. The House should do the same when they return in September. Congress must protect America’s children.” – Callista Gingrich, CEO of Gingrich 360

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/icymi-conservative-commentator-and-legal-scholar-josh-hammer-urges-house-to-pass-kids-online-safety-act,ICYMI: Conservative Commentator and Legal Scholar Josh Hammer Urges House to Pass Kids Online Safety Act,2024-09-12,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Josh Hammer, senior editor-at-large of Newsweek and host of “America on Trial with Josh Hammer” and “The Josh Hammer Show,” urged the House to pass the Kids Online Safety Act.

This legislation, introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), passed the Senate 91-3 and would provide young people and parents with the tools, safeguards, and transparency they need to protect against online harms. If signed into law, it would be the first major reform to the tech industry since 1998.

Below are excerpts of yesterday’s episode of “America on Trial with Josh Hammer.

Josh Hammer Says KOSA is “as Bipartisan as it Gets” in Washington, D.C.

“The Kids Online Safety Act – or KOSA for short – was approved by a 91-3 vote in the U.S. Senate. That is about as bipartisan as it gets these days in Washington, D.C. What would the Kids Online Safety Act actually do? Well, it would force the Big Tech platforms or social media oligarchs to take ‘reasonable steps to prevent harms to children such as bullying, drug addiction, and sexual exploitation,’ and it would broaden existing federal privacy protections to include kids and teens, 16-years-old and younger.”

Big Tech Has Colluded with the Federal Government to Censor Americans

“Have we not seen enough evidence over the years… involving Big Tech collusion with the federal government to censor, the ‘censorship industrial complex.’ Have we not gotten more than enough evidence by now to know that Big Tech is not necessarily our friend... Big corporations, the Fortune 500, not only are they not the allies of the American right and the conservative cause and, indeed, of the Republican Party at this point, they are something closely approximating the enemy.”

Big Tech Has Taken Advantage of Vulnerable Teenage Girls Leading to Unprecedented Rates of Depression and Suicide

“What's happening with Big Tech exploiting our children is horrific. Instagram and Tiktok, perhaps above all. Teenage girls in particular are the most vulnerable demographic out there when it comes to the garbage, and yes, garbage that is posted regularly on Tiktok, that the Instagram algorithms regularly show them based on how they interact with the posts and stories that they see there. They are made to feel insecure. They are made to feel vulnerable. They are made to feel they are inadequate, not good enough. And tragically, those resulted in historically unprecedented rates of depression and yes, indeed, tragically, suicide rates when it comes to teenage, adolescent and young girls and young women in particular.”

Josh Hammer to Speaker Johnson: Now is the Time to Bring KOSA for a Vote

“In an election year, there are very few opportunities to pass any kind of legislation, really whatsoever, other than those that are deemed ‘must-pass’ and that fund the federal government. If you want to get a legislation, a bill, passed – let alone one that passed by a bipartisan margin of 91-3 in the House, this is the time to do it… Right now, the onus is on Mike Johnson, Speaker Mike Johnson, to bring this thing up for a vote.”

Click hereto listen to the full episode.

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/china/blackburn-peters-probe-chinese-automakers-on-ties-to-the-chinese-communist-party-to-safeguard-u-s-security,"Blackburn, Peters Probe Chinese Automakers on Ties to the Chinese Communist Party to Safeguard U.S. Security",2024-09-11,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, sent a letter to several Chinese automakers urging them to make their ties to the Chinese Communist Party clear and highlighting the national security concerns these ties raise if their vehicles are imported into the U.S.

Last year, China became the second largest exporter of vehicles in the world, and the global automotive market has been flooded with Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs). The Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) control of industry in China poses serious concerns that the CCP could leverage certain connected technology to access sensitive personal data and critical infrastructure. If Chinese-made connected cars proliferate in the U.S., the CCP could theoretically control or disable these vehicles at will.

Senators Blackburn and Peters sent this letter to the leaders of Geely Holding, Great Wall Motors Group, SAIC Motor, Chery Automobile, FAW Group, Dongfeng Motor, BYD, and GAC Group.

Growing Chinese Global Automotive Manufacturing Sparks Concerns About Security of U.S. Data and Critical Infrastructure

“The global automotive market is being flooded with Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs). In fact, in 2023, China became the second largest exporter of vehicles in the world. Given the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)’s control of industry in China, we are deeply concerned that Chinese automakers are beholden to the regime and that the technology used in Chinese-made automobiles could be leveraged by the CCP for nefarious purposes. The data security of both American citizens and the critical infrastructure of our nation must be prioritized.”

Experts Have Sounded the Alarm on Potential for CCP Unauthorized Access to Vehicle Systems

“It is well documented that the CCP and Chinese intelligence agencies are provided access to data stored in China or accessible by companies incorporated in China for the purpose of ‘national security.’ Specifically, experts have sounded the alarm regarding the control of data for connected vehicles manufactured by companies incorporated in China, particularly when it comes to the potential for unauthorized access by the CCP to vehicle systems, data collection, and surveillance capabilities embedded within the vehicle’s technology.”

CCP Access to Video Cameras and Over-the-Air Update Systems Raise Serious Security Concerns

“Modern vehicles are equipped with video cameras and sensors both within and outside the vehicle that are capable of continuously monitoring the vehicle’s surroundings and passengers… In the hands of our adversaries—they could be used to map our critical infrastructure and roads, track the movements of U.S. citizens, provide access to the electric grid, and generally surveil Americans… Over-the-Air (OTA) update systems found in Chinese-made vehicles also raise security concerns. OTA updates—or the digital software updates intended to ensure that a vehicle runs efficiently and safely—in a Chinese-made vehicle could be vulnerable to malicious activity, opening a window for an adversary to push compromised software to Americans’ vehicles. If Chinese-made EVs proliferate in the U.S., the CCP could theoretically control or disable vehicles in the United States at will.”

Chinese Automakers Must Be Honest About Ties to the CCP

“The CCP has made clear that they intend to make the 21st century a ‘Chinese Century,’ with domination of the global automotive market being a key piece of their strategy. The United States has a responsibility—for the sake of the next generation of Americans and the world at large—to ensure that does not become a reality… As the potential national security threat posed by connected vehicles becomes more acute, we believe you must make clear the depth and nature of your ties to the CCP, as well as your future plans to potentially import vehicles into the U.S. market.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/video-blackburn-commemorates-23rd-anniversary-of-9-11,VIDEO: Blackburn Commemorates 23rd Anniversary of 9/11,2024-09-11,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a video commemorating the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001:

“Today, we all pause, and we remember the nearly 3,000 lives that were lost on September 11, 2001. I think most of us remember where we were as we began to look at these images that were coming across our TV screens and not even believing what we were seeing. As the day wore on, we realized that there were Tennesseans that lost their lives in that number – Tennesseans that were at the Pentagon, the North Tower, the South Tower. Families today still grieve those losses, and we grieve with them. That is why it is so important that today we commit ourselves to making certain that we do what is necessary to protect our nation and that we each rediscover that love of country and that value of sacrifice for protecting this nation and our citizens.” – Senator Blackburn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/education/blackburn-fleischmann-lead-tn-delegation-in-resolution-celebrating-scarboro-85,"Blackburn, Fleischmann Lead TN Delegation in Resolution Celebrating Scarboro 85",2024-09-10,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representative Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.) led the entire Tennessee delegation in introducing a resolution celebrating the role of 85 students from the Scarboro neighborhood in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, in the desegregation of public schools following the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education.

On September 6, 1955, these 85 African American students – known as the “Scarboro 85” – entered all-white classrooms in Oak Ridge High School and Robertsville Junior High, becoming the first public schools in the Southeast region to integrate and implement the ruling of the Supreme Court.

“The Scarboro 85 made the monumental first step in integrating schools in Tennessee and the Southeast region. It is an honor to celebrate these 85 Tennesseans along with my colleagues in the Tennessee delegation following the 69th anniversary of desegregation at Oak Ridge High School and Robertsville Junior High School,” said Senator Blackburn.

“The moment the Scarboro 85 desegregated two public schools in Oak Ridge, the first school desegregation anywhere in the Southeast, a new chapter in America’s history began – a chapter where the fundamental truth of America envisioned by our Founders that ‘all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness’ was fulfilled. The Scarboro 85 are heroes, and every American should know their story from coast to coast. I am honored to join Senator Blackburn and my Tennessee Congressional colleagues to honor the Scarboro 85 and the brave and noble work they did to make our state and nation a better place for every Tennessean and American,” said Representative Fleischmann.

Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn with “Scarboro 85” students in 2021.

Tennessee Led the Southeast Region in Desegregating Public Schools Thanks to the Bravery of the Scarboro 85

“In a second opinion issued on May 31, 1955, the Supreme Court of the United States decreed that schools should be desegregated ‘with all deliberate speed’…On September 6, 1955, Oak Ridge High School and Robertsville Junior High, located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, became the first public schools in the Southeast region to implement the ruling of the Supreme Court of the United States in Brown v. Board of Education…The integration of Oak Ridge High School and Robertsville Junior High was conducted in a peaceful manner.”

ENDORSEMENTS:

This resolution is endorsed by the Oak Ridge Heritage and Preservation Association (ORHPA).

“In preparation for the first day, I and other students had been coached with training by the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). I endured the negative glances and unfair treatment by students and teachers because I was determined to graduate in 1956 and be successful. This resolution and the actions of the Scarboro 85 were the keys to unlock the doors in this nation's long road to equality,” said Shirley Hawkins Lawrence, Scarboro 85 student.

“We really appreciate Congress recognizing these wonderful pioneers,” said Ms. Rose Weaver, longtime Scarboro Historian and Co- Chair of the Scarboro 85 Anniversary Celebration in 2020. “They changed the course of education and sports in our nation.”

“You just can’t speak of Civil Rights in America, without talking about the Scarboro 85,” said Coach John Spratling, award-winning educator and Chairman of the Scarboro 85 Monument Celebration Committee. “They made all the difference. In many ways, they opened the modern civil rights era!”

“The Scarboro 85 students, parents, and teachers brought Black and White communities together to help America,” said Martin McBride, Ph.D., member of the Monument Celebration Committee and Co-Chair of the Scarboro Anniversary Celebration in 2020. “They set a wonderful example for our nation --- and the World.”

CO-SPONSORS:

Senator Blackburn and Representative Fleischmann were joined by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and U.S. Representatives Mark Green (R-Tenn.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), and John Rose (R-Tenn.) in introducing this resolution.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/immigration/video-senator-blackburn-demands-justice-for-woman-murdered-in-tennessee-by-illegal-immigrant,VIDEO: Senator Blackburn Demands Justice for Woman Murdered in Tennessee by Illegal Immigrant,2024-09-10,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) slammed the Biden-Harris administration for allegedly allowing an illegal alien into our country who murdered a woman in Tennessee.

Until we secure our border, every town is a border town, and every state is a border state. The Biden-Harris immigration policies are claiming lives every single day.

The Biden-Harris Admin Reportedly Let in an Illegal That Murdered a Woman in Cleveland

“The accused murderer of a 25-year-old woman in Cleveland, Tennessee, is an illegal alien, someone who came in this country on the CBP One App. You've heard me talk about this because it is another of those components that the Biden-Harris administration is using trying to make illegal aliens legal. This absolutely has to stop. This is why it is imperative that we close the border.” – Senator Blackburn

Click here to download the video and here to watch it.

BACKGROUND:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/technology/blackburn-confronts-meta-over-reports-they-are-censoring-olympic-and-paralympic-champions-in-shooting-sports,Blackburn Confronts Meta Over Reports They Are Censoring Olympic and Paralympic Champions in Shooting Sports,2024-09-04,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter confronting Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg over reports that the platform is unfairly censoring shooting sports content and athletes.

Meta has reportedly shadow-banned and de-platformed several members of USA Shooting who represent our nation on the world stage, including four-time Olympic gold medalist Vincent Hancock and Paralympian McKenna Geer, in blatant instances of bias against the Second Amendment and freedom of expression. The West Point Rifle Team has experienced similar censorship. Big Tech must be held accountable for this unacceptable bias and pattern of censorship.

Elite Athletes in Shooting Sports Report Meta is Censoring Their Content

“According to reports, Meta has censored leading athletes in shooting sports, including Olympian Vincent Hancock and Paralympian McKenna Geer. Mr. Hancock, a U.S. Army veteran, recently won his fourth Olympic gold medal in skeet shooting, having previously proved himself the world’s best marksman in 2008, 2012, and 2021. A dominant figure in the sport, Mr. Hancock is the first skeet shooter to earn an Olympic gold medal more than once, and he joined an elite group, becoming only the sixth Olympian to win a gold medal in the same event four times. He has become a role model for others in the same way that swimmers look to Michael Phelps. Yet, instead of allowing his athletic feats to be celebrated, moderators at Meta have chosen to punish Mr. Hancock by restricting his accounts.”

Meta Displays Bias Against Firearm Content Without Clear Guidelines

“In July of this year, Ms. McKenna Geer faced similar censorship from Meta. Ms. Geer was born with a muscular disorder that can impact an individual’s ability to do even the simplest tasks. Incredibly, Ms. Geer has risen to the highest echelons of shooting sports and was chosen to represent the United States in the air-rifle event at the Paralympic Games. When she posted a photo holding the very rifle she used to qualify for the Games, Meta flagged the photo as a violation of its guidelines and informed her that she would be effectively shadow-banned, with nonfollowers being unable to view her account or her content, all because her post failed to promote a ‘safe environment.’ When she tried to appeal the decision, the appeal platform wasn’t functional.”

Meta Has a Pattern of Censoring Shooting Sport Athletes and Suppressing the Freedom of Speech

“Meta’s discrimination is not limited to these two athletes. Instead, this pattern of censorship has affected other shooting athletes and even the West Point Rifle Team’s page, which Facebook argued violated their Community Standards. This censorship seems specifically targeted at shooting sports, as no other sport faces the same online discrimination. Any reasonable individual could draw only one conclusion: this attack on freedom of speech and sport is simply due to the use of a firearm. Never mind the fact that many of these athletes use their platforms to advocate for firearm safety and responsible gun ownership, or that shooting is one of the few sports that can unite athletes across the boundaries of age and ability. This is simply an effort by Meta to virtue signal to the world and trample on these athletes’ freedom of expression.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/education/video-blackburn-renews-call-to-pass-after-school-act-as-tennessee-students-begin-new-school-year,VIDEO: Blackburn Renews Call to Pass AFTER SCHOOL Act as Tennessee Students Begin New School Year,2024-08-30,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a video urging Congress to pass her bipartisan AFTER SCHOOL Act, which would establish a grant program for local communities to establish, maintain, and strengthen after school programs to combat violent crime among juveniles. Earlier this year, the Memphis City Council unanimously passed a resolution in support of this legislation.

“Across the country, 64 percent of violent juvenile crime happens [on] school days. In the U.S. Senate, I’ve introduced the bipartisan AFTER SCHOOL Act. It would strengthen after school programs with a goal of reducing violent juvenile crime. After school programs have the proven effect of keeping youth crime low and keeping our young kids out of trouble. As children go back to school, I’m calling on the U.S. Senate to pass this bipartisan legislation. Let’s give more tools to our local communities to address juvenile crime,” said Senator Blackburn.

Click here to download this video.

ENDORSEMENTS:

“We believe regular, organized after-school programs help to disrupt the cycle of violence and give young people pathways to more productive activities. This act would help provide much-needed funding to facilitate these programs in our neighborhoods, giving our young people options that don’t currently exist,” said Memphis Mayor Paul Young.

“Public safety and youth crime is a pressing issue for Shelby County residents. We know that if we could provide more quality after school programs, we could reduce crime and make our young people stay on track. Here in Shelby County, we implemented a program to provide free summer camp opportunities for youth in coordination with local churches and nonprofits. Through that effort, we know that there are dozens of community organizations who want to provide programming, but do not have federal support to do so. The AFTER SCHOOL Act could give us an opportunity to build on that approach and partner with our local school districts to make sure our young people stay out of trouble after school. I am proud to endorse this bipartisan bill and hope to see it signed into law soon. We need to do everything we can do reduce crime and expand opportunities for our next generation,” said Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris.

“At a time when juvenile crime and public safety are top of mind for Memphis residents, it's critical that positive youth development initiatives like after school programs flourish and grow. That's why I'm proud to endorse Senator Blackburn's bill, the AFTER SCHOOL Act, which gets school districts the funds they need to expand these after school programs that are so successful in helping to reduce juvenile crime rates. I hope that the United States Congress passes this bipartisan bill very soon. I am proud to partner with Senator Blackburn as we work together to Make Memphis Matter at home, in Nashville, and in our nation’s capital! The AFTER SCHOOL Act is a positive step in the right direction,” said State Senator Brent Taylor.

“I am pleased to support the bipartisan AFTER SCHOOL Act and appreciate Senator Blackburn’s advocacy for this work, which has the potential to spur economic and workforce development and to improve public safety. I look forward to bringing a resolution to the Shelby County Commission for further bipartisan support for this bill,” said Shelby County Commissioner Brandon Morrison.

“United Ways of Tennessee supports the AFTER SCHOOL Act and commends Senators Blackburn on her leadership. The proposed afterschool program funding is greatly needed, and we know it can be put to good and impactful use to ensure that our struggling children and youth have the ability to thrive,” said Mary Graham, President & CEO of United Ways of Tennessee.

“Afterschool programs keep kids safe, inspire them to learn, give working parents peace of mind, and help students succeed in school and in life. With nearly 25 million U.S. children who would be in a program if one were available, ensuring that we have strong, stable afterschool and summer learning programs for all students should be a high priority—and investments like those proposed in the bipartisan AFTER SCHOOL Act are a step in the right direction towards addressing the tremendous need for these important programs,” said Jodi Grant, Executive Director of Afterschool Alliance

THE AFTER SCHOOL ACT:

64 percent of violent crimes committed by youth occur on school days, and this violence peaks in the afterschool hours.

The AFTER SCHOOL Act, which Senator Blackburn introduced with Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), would establish a grant program administered through the Department of Justice to reduce juvenile crime in local communities.

This grant program would provide funding for localities to establish, maintain, and strengthen these after school programs that are so effective.

Specifically, school districts may be eligible to receive these funds upon submission of an application in which they confirm that their county’s juvenile offense rate (the percentage of violent juvenile offenses as compared to the total number of violent offenses committed by all age groups) is more than 10 percent.

The school district must calculate this data by using the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program.

By a vote of 13-0, the Memphis City Council passed a resolution in support of the AFTER SCHOOL Act in May.

Memphis leadership, including Memphis Mayor Paul Young, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris, and State Senator Brent Taylor, also announced support for the bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/jobs-and-economy/video-senator-blackburn-discusses-impact-of-inflation-with-tennessee-small-business-owner,VIDEO: Senator Blackburn Discusses Impact of Inflation with Tennessee Small Business Owner,2024-08-30,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video about the impact of inflation and rising prices on Tennesseans. Senator Blackburn spoke with a small business owner in East Tennessee about how rising costs have made it harder to afford materials, keep costs low for customers, and hire new employees. In the video, the small business owner shares that the same materials she bought for $18.84 per thousand in 2018 cost $32.91 per thousand in 2024, which is nearly a 75% cost increase.

Click here to download this video.

“President Biden and Vice President Harris have continued to downplay the devastating impact of inflation, but hardworking Americans are feeling that impact each and every day whether it’s at the gas pump or the grocery store. What Tennesseans want to see is action to get this inflation under control,” said Senator Blackburn.

BACKGROUND:

A family in Tennessee is paying on average $1,017 more each month to purchase the same goods and services since President Biden took office.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/immigration/blackburn-presses-dhs-and-ice-on-new-report-revealing-they-may-have-lost-track-of-more-than-300k-unaccompanied-migrant-children,Blackburn Presses DHS and ICE on New Report Revealing They May Have Lost Track of More than 300K Unaccompanied Migrant Children,2024-08-29,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Patrick Lechleitner demanding answers as to why ICE lost track of at least 32,000 unaccompanied migrant children (UCs) and may have lost track of up to 323,000 UCs, according to a new report released by the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG).

Although the OIG report confirms that ICE lost track of at least 32,000 UCs who failed to appear for their immigration court hearings, the agency may have lost track of an additional 291,000 UCs who were not placed in removal proceedings and were never given a court date. Thus, because ICE has no formal policy in place to follow up with UCs who did not appear in court, the total number of children the Department has lost track of is likely significantly higher.

New Report Reveals ICE Lost Track of at Least 32,000 Unaccompanied Migrant Children – Leaving Them Vulnerable to Human Trafficking and Exploitation

“On your department’s watch, tens of thousands of migrant children are now missing—leaving them highly vulnerable to human trafficking and exploitation. This, unfortunately, is just the latest failure of the Biden-Harris border crisis that continues to unfold… According to this devastating report, over the last five years, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has lost track of more than 32,000 UCs.”

ICE May Have Lost an Additional 291,000 Children

“Just as disturbing, it appears that the number of missing migrant children could very well be far greater than 32,000. Over the course of five years, ICE transferred more than 448,000 UCs to the custody of HHS, with more than 32,000 of those children failing to appear for their immigration court dates. As the report notes, the number of missing children may be much higher, as ICE failed to issue Notices to Appear (NTAs) to more than 291,000 UCs who were not placed in removal proceedings. In other words, because these hundreds of thousands of children were not served NTAs, they did not have a court date, and ‘ICE has not developed a formal policy or process to follow up on UCs who did not appear in court.’”

ICE Failed in its Most Basic Duty to Keep Children Safe

“It is ICE’s duty to safely transfer UCs to HHS after they are initially taken into custody by border agents—as well as to manage and monitor their immigration cases. Yet, it is plain to me that you have failed in your most basic duty to keep these children safe from harm, as the OIG report found that ICE has failed to track the whereabouts of thousands of children who have been released or transferred from ICE’s custody.”

Biden Admin Has Devastating Track Record of Failing to Protect Unaccompanied Migrant Children – HHS Previously Lost Track of at Least 85,000 UCs

“This tragedy is not surprising given the Biden-Harris administration’s past failures with respect to the well-being and safety of migrant children. As you know, the Biden HHS lost track of at least 85,000 migrant children who they are charged with protecting, and the whereabouts of those children are still unknown. I have inquired for more information from Secretary Becerra—to no avail—about that unconscionable failure. The American people, and the families of these hundreds of thousands of children, deserve answers about your reckless disregard for the well-being of the children in your care and what your department is doing to address these failures.”

BACKGROUND:

It is ICE’s responsibility to safely transfer UCs to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) after they are initially taken into custody by border agents. According to a recent report released by the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG), ICE lost track of more than 32,000 UCs who failed to appear for their immigration court hearings from Fiscal Year 2019 to 2023.

Even worse, the number of missing children may actually be much higher, as ICE failed to issue Notices to Appear (NTAs) to more than 291,000 UCs who were not placed in removal proceedings – meaning they did not have a court date. Therefore, ICE may have lost as many as 323,000 UCs who either failed to appear for their immigration court hearings or were never given a court date. The report states that ICE “has not developed a formal policy or process to follow up on UCs who did not appear in court.”

Last year, bombshell reporting also revealed HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra ignored the concerns of HHS staffers and outside contractors about the potential exploitation of 85,000 children who went missing under his department’s watch. Secretary Becerra has refused to provide more information about this devastating failure, despite Senator Blackburn’s repeated requests.

RELATED:

READ: Blackburn Puts HHS On Blast: ‘Nothing Compassionate About Turning A Blind Eye To The Victimization Of Children’

WATCH: Senator Blackburn Presses Becerra Over Losing Migrant Children Coming Into The U.S.

READ: Blackburn Slams HHS Over Missing Migrant Children Response, Demands Honesty",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/national-security/blackburn-merkley-call-out-nba-commissioner-for-deepening-relationship-with-rwanda-putting-profit-over-principle,"Blackburn, Merkley Call Out NBA Commissioner for Deepening Relationship with Rwanda: ‘Putting Profit Over Principle’",2024-08-27,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oreg.) sent a letter to National Basketball Association (NBA) Commissioner Adam Silver calling out the NBA’s deepening engagement with Rwandan President Paul Kagame who has a demonstrated record of human rights abuses. The letter also expresses concern about the league’s engagement with Chinese Communist Party officials.

As of 2021, NBA’s Business in Africa Was Valued at Nearly $1 Billion

“We write to express deep concern about the National Basketball Association (NBA)’s deepening relationship with Rwanda, led by President Paul Kagame. It seems that the NBA—which has long positioned itself as a beacon of social justice—is choosing to continue developing relationships with dictators and despots, all in the name of putting profit over principle. Reporting indicates that the League’s relationship with President Kagame began in 2018, as you ‘shot free throws’ with the President in Kigali. The NBA then gave President Kagame the advice and support he needed to build a massive new $104 million arena to establish the Basketball Africa League (BAL), expanding the NBA’s presence on the continent. Indeed, the NBA’s business in Africa was valued at almost $1 billion as of 2021.”

Rwandan President’s Government Has Long History of Brutality and Abuse

“The NBA has hosted President Kagame in Toronto, Los Angeles, Charlotte, Oakland, and at various other NBA sponsored events across North America, treating him like a friend and dignitary. The league profits from this relationship, but at what cost? President Kagame has ruled Rwanda for over 20 years with impunity. Freedom of expression and internet freedom is extremely limited in the country. Anyone who dares to question Kagame’s rule—whether it be opposition candidates or the free press—is jailed, disappeared, or brutally assassinated. President Kagame’s government has also allegedly provided military support to M23, a rebel group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has caused tens of thousands of Congolese people to flee their homes in fear. This group has been accused of horrific abuses, including recruiting child soldiers, using rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war, and torturing civilians.”

Playing Ball with Dictators Should Not Be the NBA’s Business Model

“The Rwandan government is known for murdering, kidnapping, and intimidating dissidents living overseas, including those in the United States. The NBA should not remain silent as Kagame exports his authoritarianism. Our concern about the NBA’s business relationship with a government with a demonstrated record of human rights abuses and repressive behavior is not limited to Rwanda. The league’s activities in China, engagement with Chinese Communist Party officials, and policies on products made with forced labor remain troubling… Playing ball with dictators and brutal regimes should not be the NBA’s business model. Instead, the league should use its influence to advocate for governance reforms, including respect for the rule of law.”

RELATED

NBA Confirms it is Continuing to Cozy up with Communist China

Click here to view the full letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/veterans/blackburn-rubio-colleagues-introduce-ensuring-continuity-in-veterans-health-act,"Blackburn, Rubio, Colleagues Introduce Ensuring Continuity in Veterans’ Health Act",2024-08-26,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and their colleagues introduced the Ensuring Continuity in Veterans’ Health Act to require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to consider continuity of healthcare when deciding whether seeing a provider in the community is in a veteran’s best medical interest.

As the VA opens up new facilities, many veterans are losing access to the VA’s Community Care Program and, consequently, their long-term healthcare providers. Veterans throughout the country have reported a loss of care.

“As the Biden administration continues to threaten veterans’ access to the Community Care Program, veterans across Tennessee consistently tell me how much they value this program because it provides them with options to receive medical care closer to home. This legislation will broaden access to community care by ensuring that our veterans receive the quality care they deserve without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles,” said Senator Blackburn.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for this country and often have PTSD or other mental health issues as a result. Addressing mental health issues takes trust and time. The Ensuring Continuity in Veterans’ Health Act will ensure our veterans can continue receiving care from their long-term providers that they have established a trusted relationship with,” said Senator Rubio.

U.S. Representative Scott Franklin (R-Fla.) introduced companion legislation in the House.

BACKGROUND:

Community Care allows veterans to go to regular doctors in their community when the VA cannot provide the care needed. Community Care is based on specific eligibility requirements, the availability of VA care, and the needs and circumstances of individual veterans.

CO-SPONSORS:

Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Rick Scott (R-Fla.) co-sponsored this legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/technology/blackburn-cruz-persuade-noaa-to-pause-restrictions-on-undersea-cables,"Blackburn, Cruz Persuade NOAA to Pause Restrictions on Undersea Cables",2024-08-23,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Commerce Committee Ranking Member, issued the following statements after National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that they would pause burdensome permitting restrictions on commercial submarine cables in national marine sanctuaries, a change Senators Blackburn and Cruz urged them to make in a letter sent earlier this year.

“Undersea cables are vital components of our telecommunications and data infrastructure,” said Senator Blackburn. “NOAA’s decision to pause its efforts to make it more difficult to operate and maintain these important undersea cables is a major victory in the fight to encourage technological innovation and prioritize American interests.”

“Impeding the laying, maintaining, and repairing of undersea cables undermines both the commercial and national security operations relying on this critical communications infrastructure,” said Senator Cruz. “I am glad that NOAA now recognizes that America’s undersea cable network does not harm national marine sanctuaries, and redundant environmental regulations are unnecessary for protecting marine ecosystems. I am proud to have joined Senator Blackburn in this effort to prioritize American interests and technological innovation.”

BACKGROUND:

NOAA is reviewing the nomination of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary as part of the National Marine Sanctuary System, which currently encompasses more than 620,000 square miles of marine and Great Lakes waters. Several undersea cables exist within this new proposed national marine sanctuary, all of which are environmentally benign and cause minimal impact to its area.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/technology/icymi-top-conservative-women-s-group-urges-support-for-kids-online-safety-act,ICYMI: Top Conservative Women’s Group Urges Support for Kids Online Safety Act,2024-08-23,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) celebrated the Senate passage of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act earlier this month. The bill is headed to the House with growing support from conservative groups, including Concerned Women for America.

Congress Aims to Keep Children Safe Online

Maggie McKneely

Concerned Women for America

Congress took an important first step in making the internet safer for kids by passing the Kids Online Safety Act.

The bill was first introduced in 2022 by Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) in response to several Congressional hearings regarding the exploitation of children online. Since then, the bipartisan outcry against this particular epidemic has only grown louder. Earlier this year, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, along with representatives from X, TikTok, and Discord, once again appeared in front of the Senate Judiciary hearing to defend their companies’ practices regarding child safety on their platforms. The questioning from Senators became so intense that Zuckerberg was forced to apologize for the harm done to children on Meta’s platforms.

Despite the overwhelming agreement that the online community must be made safer for kids, Congress has yet to pass any meaningful legislation on the issue. The 1998 Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act was the last bill signed into law related to the issue – an outdated law that predates the age of social media. A major reason that nothing has been done since then is that legislators have been unsure how to make social media more child-friendly without infringing on First Amendment protections. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) was able to garner broad appeal because rather than policing the content on social media or intrusively meddling in the affairs of private companies, the bill’s goal is merely to ensure that these platforms are more child friendly.

KOSA’s primary objective is to direct how the big tech companies deliver content to minors. One of the bill’s provisions would establish a “duty of care,” which would mandate all covered companies “exercise reasonable care” in the creation and implementation of any design or feature to prevent various harms, including the sexual exploitation and abuse of children. That means limiting the ability of unknown adults to communicate with minors on the app.

KOSA would also prevent companies from adopting any algorithmic designs or other modes that entice kids to spend too much time on the apps, such as limitless scrolling and video auto plays. As Sen. Blumenthal noted, “Record levels of hopelessness and despair—a national teen mental health crisis—have been fueled by black box algorithms featuring eating disorders, bullying, suicidal thoughts, and more. Kids and parents want to take back control over their online lives.” The less time kids spend on these apps, the better off they’ll be.

Further, KOSA would require companies to put many features in place, enabled by default, to safeguard minors, including restricted public access to personal data. Under the bill, companies would be required to implement tools that give parents the ability to manage their child’s social media account, allowing them to adjust privacy settings, restrict purchases, and easily report harmful content. While many companies currently have reporting tools, they lack transparency about where those reports go and how they’re handled, or if they’re investigated at all. KOSA would ensure these tools are actually effective.

While the bill has broad support from both sides of the aisle, the loudest objections have come from the big tech companies themselves and the LGBTQ community. While several companies, including Facebook, have voiced support for strengthening protections, they state that they have disagreements with how KOSA goes about doing so. While those arguments might be valid, these companies have thus far proven unwilling to address the problem themselves, so Congress must intervene. As for the latter, they argue that KOSA may restrict a child’s ability to access online content about their “identity” – a compelling reason for those opposed to the gender ideology agenda to support the bill.

The bill passed out of the Senate by an overwhelming 91-3 vote. It is still unclear whether or not the House will take it up, but the wide vote margin gives the bill momentum. Though there’s far more work to be done when it comes to protecting vulnerable children from online exploitation, KOSA is an important first step that will hopefully pave the way for more in the future.

RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/jobs-and-economy/senate-commerce-committee-passes-blackburn-hickenlooper-music-tourism-bill,"Senate Commerce Committee Passes Blackburn, Hickenlooper Music Tourism Bill",2024-08-21,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passed the bipartisan American Music Tourism Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors.

“Tennesseans know a thing or two about the positive impact that music tourism has on the economy and culture,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Volunteer State is proud to be home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to enjoy – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. This bipartisan legislation promotes music tourism’s fast-growing industry and ensures fans from all over the world can celebrate the rich history of music for generations to come.”

“Coloradans are back to filling big event spaces and enjoying good music. But it’s up to us to support our local venues,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our bipartisan American Music Tourism Act is one step closer to doing so.”

ENDORSEMENTS:

This legislation is supported by the Recording Academy, the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International, the Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, the National Independent Venue Association, Tennessee Department of Tourism Development, Tennessee Entertainment Commission, Memphis Tourism, Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Overton Park Shell, Airbnb, and Eventbrite.

“The Recording Academy is pleased to support the American Music Tourism Act and applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their continued dedication to lifting up the music community. Music has long played an important role in our economy and culture. This bill will amplify the music community’s contributions to economic growth and increase understanding of music’s impact on the U.S. and the world,” said Todd Dupler, Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer of the Recording Academy.

“The Nashville Songwriters Association International is glad to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As owners of an iconic music venue, The Bluebird Café, we acutely understand the impact of music on tourism dollars. With the music tourism market expected to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032, and since the United States is one of the main beneficiaries of music tourism, it is essential that the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism identify and promote musical sites of significance,” said Bart Herbison, Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International.

“From the historic Grand Ole Opry to the legendary Telluride Bluegrass Festival, America’s music story comes alive at iconic venues and landmarks all across the country. We applaud Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for introducing the American Music Tourism Act, which will encourage even more music fans to experience the rich legacy of American music firsthand,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman & CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America.

“In Nashville, Memphis, and countless other communities across the country, a vibrant live music scene is an economic magnet that draws fans from around the globe. The American Music Tourism Act is an important piece of legislation that will help ensure live music remains a pillar of American culture and tourism, and we’d like to thank the Senator for her leadership on this issue,” said Sally Williams, President of Nashville Music and Business Strategy for Live Nation Entertainment.

“From rural communities to city centers, independent stages attract investment and visitors for the artists and professionals that put on shows and the restaurants, retail, and attractions around them. The American Music Tourism Act finally recognizes music tourism as a catalyst for economic development and ensures its growth is a national priority. We applaud Senators Marsha Blackburn and John Hickenlooper for aligning the nation’s tourism strategy with the venues and festivals across our country that the world travels to experience,” said Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association.

“As the proud home to world-renowned attractions like Graceland, Grand Ole Opry, Dollywood, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Tennessee's tourism industry thrives on our rich musical heritage. The American Music Tourism Act reflects our agency’s dedication to preserving this legacy and bolstering our state’s global music appeal. By championing our diverse creative talent and attractions, we believe this legislation can bolster economic growth and draw visitors seeking authentic American music experiences,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

“For decades, Tennessee has maintained its reputation as a mecca for music tourism attracting both domestic and global audiences alike. Our State’s uniquely positioned musical legacy has become a valuable tool in shaping cultural pride, economic growth, and community development across all grand divisions. The American Music Tourism Act promotes and supports our distinctive destinations and music heritage, preserving what makes Tennessee a truly exceptional place to visit,” said Bob Raines, Executive Director of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission.

“Music is Memphis’ primary travel motivator, as it brings in both domestic and international visitors year-round. Visitors from around the world choose Memphis as a vacation destination for our live music, musical attractions, as well as to see and learn about our talented musicians of the past, present and future. Tourism is currently a 6-billion-dollar industry for Memphis and Shelby County. The American Music Tourism Act will allow for the preservation of all areas of our music industry and will be essential to the sustainability and future of tourism,” said Kevin Kane, President and CEO of Memphis Tourism.

“Music tourism is of vital importance to Tennessee, but specifically to Pigeon Forge. Last year, more than eight million people visited our destination, many of whom came in search of musical entertainment. In addition to a highly successfully musical theater community, we are especially proud that Dolly Parton, one of the world’s most celebrated musicians and prolific songwriters, and her Dollywood theme park give so many visitors reasons to visit time and time again. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism has a vital role in promoting and increasing tourism for both domestic and international visitors. On behalf of Pigeon Forge and other Tennessee destinations that rely on music-seeking visitors, I encourage the Assistant Secretary to expand these efforts through the American Music Tourism Act,” said Leon Downey, Executive Director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism.

“The historic Overton Park Shell of Memphis, Tennessee is thrilled to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As stewards of our iconic venue which was home to Elvis Presley's first live performance in 1954, The Overton Park Shell acutely understands the impact of music on tourism dollars. Amplifying the work of cultural assets will have a ripple effect to the economic impact that these entities bring to our Country and the legacy of American music known worldwide,” said Natalie Wilson, Executive Director of the Overton Park Shell.

“We’ve seen firsthand how concerts have become a growing tourist attraction, driving travel demand to regions around the world. That’s why we are proud to support the American Music Tourism Act, which helps promote domestic tourism in the US and amplifies the positive economic impact of Airbnb guests seeking music experiences across the country,” said Mike Signer, North America Policy Director Airbnb.

“Eventbrite applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their American Music Tourism Act, bipartisan legislation consistent with Eventbrite’s commitment to live music and mission to bring the world together through shared experiences,” said Julia Hartz, Co-Founder, CEO, and Executive Chair Eventbrite.

BACKGROUND:

Music tourism – both the act of visiting sites important to the history of American music culture and the act of traveling for current concerts and music festivals – is a vital industry for American culture and an economic driver for our communities.

Music tourism has emerged as a top travel trend, with the market forecasted to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032.

The United States, which boasts one of world’s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year, is one of the main beneficiaries of this international interest in music tourism.

The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism is uniquely positioned to identify and promote sites of musical significance.

AMERICAN TOURISM ACT:

Specifically, the American Music Tourism Act would:

Leverage this existing framework within the Department of Commerce to highlight and promote music tourism in the United States.

Require the Assistant Secretary to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors; and

Require a report to Congress on the successes and vulnerabilities of the Assistant Secretary’s goals to increase travel and tourism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/immigration/blackburn-introduces-resolution-condemning-harris-failure-as-border-czar,Blackburn Introduces Resolution Condemning Harris’ Failure as Border Czar,2024-08-20,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) introduced a resolution condemning Vice President Kamala Harris’ failure to secure the border in her role as Border Czar. On March 24, 2021, President Biden designated Vice President Harris as “Border Czar” to address the ‘‘root causes’’ of illegal immigration into the United States.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, there have been 10 million illegal border crossings, the most ever recorded in U.S. history. Vice President Harris has taken no decisive steps to close our southern border and has put millions of American lives in danger.

“Since her very first day in office, Vice President Harris – President Biden’s designated Border Czar – has refused to take the national security and safety crisis at our southern border seriously. The Biden-Harris administration has presided over more than 10 million illegal border crossings and has released nearly 100 individuals on the terrorist watchlist into our country. Vice President Harris can run, but she cannot hide from her disastrous record that has killed countless innocent Americans,” said Senator Blackburn.

The Border Czar Has Never Taken Border Security Seriously

“Vice President Kamala Harris did not even visit the southern border until June 25, 2021, 93 days after being named ‘border czar…’ When Vice President Kamala Harris traveled near the southern border for the first time on June 25, 2021, she decided to travel to El Paso, Texas, which is located 800 miles from the Lower Rio Grande Valley.”

Under Harris’ Watch, Illegal Immigrant Encounters Have Exploded at the Southern Border

“Since Joe Biden and Kamala Harris became President and Vice President, respectively there have been— (1) more than 9,700,000 illegal immigrant encounters nationwide; (2) more than 7,900,000 illegal immigrant encounters at the United States southern border; and (3) an estimated 2,000,000 known gotaways who evaded the United States Border Patrol, which is more known gotaways than evaded the Border Patrol during the entire previous decade.”

President Trump Prioritized Securing the Border While Harris Opened it up to Millions

“In May 2024, there were 170,723 illegal immigrant encounters at the United States southern border, which represents a 185 percent increase from the average May encounter total during the administration of President Trump…May 2024 was the 39th straight month where monthly illegal immigrant encounters have been higher than the highest month under President Trump.”

The Border Czar’s Refusal to Close the Southern Border Has Cost American Lives and Puts Millions More at Risk of Terrorist Attacks

“Illegal immigrants with violent criminal histories who have murdered innocent Americans, including Laken Riley, Jocelyn Nungary, Rachel Morin, and others throughout the United States, pose an existential threat to the safety and security of the American people…In June 2024, NBC News reported that more than 50 illegal immigrants with ties to ISIS were on the loose in the United States after having been released by officials of the Biden administration…During the Biden administration, more than 350 illegal immigrants with ties to ISIS and whose names appear on the terrorist watch list were stopped while trying to cross the southern border.”

In the House, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) introduced a companion resolution condemning Kamala Harris’ failure as Border Czar.

ENDORSEMENTS:

“From day one, Vice President Kamala Harris has been unrelenting in her goal to open our nation’s borders and grant mass amnesty. She believes in decriminalizing illegal immigration; wants to abolish ICE; and supports free education and health care for all illegal aliens. Harris' failure to lead resulted in an open southern border where criminals, terrorists, and fentanyl are illegally entering our country and harming innocent Americans. Since the start of fiscal year 2021, over 370 individuals on the terrorist watchlist have been caught trying to illegally enter our country through the southern border. Harris' open border is a threat to our national security and has killed countless Americans. Should Harris be allowed to continue her efforts to erase our nation’s border, she will turn America into a sanctuary country.”– Mark Morgan, former Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection

“Since being named Border Czar, Harris has refused to secure the border at every turn. Instead, she has allowed drug cartels, violent criminals, and terrorists to exploit the open border and murder Americans. We know how to secure the border and have done so in the past. If the Biden-Harris administration kept the Trump-era border policies in place, we would not have had over 10 million illegal immigrants enter our country since 2021. Harris' policy agenda is an open border, and that will sadly result in countless more Americans being murdered."" – Brandon Judd, former President of the National Border Patrol Council and 25-year Border Patrol veteran

“Under Harris's open border and failure as a Border Czar historic number of Americans have died from the fentanyl that the criminal cartels push through the open border along with an historic number of people arrested that were on the terror watch list. Add to that more than two million got aways, she has created the biggest national security vulnerability this nation has ever seen, and FBI Director agrees on that vulnerability. Two groups that want Harris as the next President include the criminal cartels of Mexico and numerous terrorist organizations that want to continue to exploit our open borders. That is a fact.”– Thomas Homan, former Director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

“Kamala Harris claims to be tough on border security while touting immigration reform that will only incentivize further illegal border crossings. Despite what Kamala Harris believes, illegally crossing the border is a federal crime. Harris' refusal to secure our border is endangering countless Americans and has resulted in innocent victims such as Laken Riley to tragically lose their lives.” – Matthew Whitaker, former United States Attorney General

“Our nation is in a very vulnerable and dangerous situation right now. For the last three and a half years we in essence, the United States, have had an open border. And it is basically an open invitation for any to come across the border. All are welcome and that’s a problem. Foreign terrorist organization groups are capitalizing on this open border and nefarious actors are taking advantage of this for every single moment they can because there is no one stopping them.”– Nicole Parker, former FBI Special Agent

“The catch-and-release policies put in place by the Biden-Harris administration are making our communities less safe. When compounded with the soft-on-crime policies endorsed by this administration, law enforcement officers in Tennessee and across the nation have to work twice as hard to keep people safe. Tennesseans have been victimized at the hands of violent criminals who have illegally entered into our country while border czar Kamala Harris has done nothing. This cannot continue.” – Sheriff John Fuson, Montgomery County

“America’s Sheriffs from Western States Sheriffs Association and Southwest Border/Texas Sheriffs Coalition have a vote of NO Confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris for her failure to address and prioritize our southern border. Vice President Harris has abandoned and neglected her Nation’s Oath of Office to protect America to include acknowledging, engaging, and partnering with America’s Sheriffs to protect our communities and families within. In a recent letter reference the border addressed to the White House, our National Sheriffs Association President stated, ‘Too Little Too Late’ to which, I agree. Our country needs No more excuses, but leadership driven by the Rule of Law and those who believe in protecting our nation’s legacy.”– Sheriff Mark Dannels, Cochise County, Ariz.

“After witnessing this disaster over the past year and listening to the continued rhetoric and intellectual dishonesty from Vice President Harris, The Southwestern Border Sheriff’s Coalition, and its membership must emphatically state our position of having NO confidence in the ability of Vice President Kamala Harris, and her leadership within the office of Vice President, to affect any positive outcome on this matter.” – Sheriff Leon Wilmot, Yuma County, Ariz.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/news/video-senator-blackburn-completes-sixth-annual-95-county-tour,VIDEO: Senator Blackburn Completes Sixth Annual 95 County Tour,2024-08-20,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) completed her sixth annual tour of all 95 counties in Tennessee. During her tour, Senator Blackburn met with elected officials, law enforcement officers, small business owners, educators, farmers, manufacturers, and community leaders to discuss the Volunteer State’s most pressing issues and continued development.

“For the sixth year in a row, I have officially visited all of Tennessee’s 95 counties. It was exciting to hear about the ways the Volunteer State continues to grow and attract families from all over the nation from local leaders and manufacturers. Across the state, Tennesseans shared their concerns about high prices and the Biden-Harris administration’s wide-open border. It is clear Tennesseans want a secure border, lower prices, and safer communities. It is an honor to represent Tennessee as the state reaches new heights in growth and development.”

SERVING TENNESSEANS:

In addition to the 95-County Tour, on average each year Senator Blackburn’s office:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/crime/blackburn-cornyn-colleagues-bill-to-ensure-crime-victims-representatives-receive-restitution-signed-into-law,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Colleagues’ Bill to Ensure Crime Victims’ Representatives Receive Restitution Signed into Law",2024-08-13,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) released the following statements after their Victims’ Voices Outside and Inside the Courtroom Effectiveness (Victims’ VOICES) Act was signed into law. This critical bill ensures family members, legal guardians, and those appointed by the court who act on behalf of a victim during certain criminal court case proceedings receive restitution from convicted defendants for costs like transportation, lost income, and childcare that they incur.

“Under federal law, those convicted of certain crimes are required to pay restitution to their victims – helping cover necessary expenses such as medical care,” said Senator Blackburn. “However, that is not the case for a person assuming the rights of a victim who is a minor, deceased or unable to act for themselves. This is important legislation that ensures all victims receive the justice they deserve.”

“Family members of violent crime victims, including children and those who have died, should be reimbursed for the financial burden they take on to achieve justice for their loved ones,” said Senator Cornyn. “This legislation will make victims’ representatives whole by ensuring they receive restitution from convicted criminals, and I’m glad to see it become law.”

BACKGROUND:

The Mandatory Victims Restitution Act, which was signed into law in 1996, requires defendants convicted of certain crimes, including violent crimes, to pay restitution to their victims. The restitution can cover a number of costs, including transportation, lost income, and childcare costs incurred while participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense as well as medical and nonmedical care and treatment and associated costs. In the case of a victim who is a minor, deceased, incapacitated, or otherwise not capable of acting on his or her own behalf, a family member, legal guardian, or a person appointed by the court may “assume” the victim’s rights.

In many jurisdictions, individuals acting on a victim’s behalf have been precluded from receiving restitution for their own lost income, transportation, childcare, and other costs. This imposes a significant hardship on the victim’s representative and a barrier to vindicating the victim’s rights. The Victims’ VOICES Act would amend existing law to clarify that a person who acts on behalf of a victim is eligible to receive restitution for the expenses associated with participating in the investigation or prosecution of the offense, attending related court proceedings, or transporting a victim to receive medical, therapy, rehabilitation, or other services.

CO-SPONSORS:

Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) also co-sponsored this legislation.

Representatives Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) and Lucy McBath (D-Ga.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

ENDORSEMENTS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/news/blackburn-gop-colleagues-to-ag-garland-release-the-tapes-of-biden-interview-with-special-counsel-hur,"Blackburn, GOP Colleagues to AG Garland: Release the Tapes of Biden Interview with Special Counsel Hur",2024-08-12,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Lindsey Graham and all Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans to call on U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to release the audio recording of President Joe Biden’s interview with Special Counsel Robert Hur.

Special Counsel Hur’s report concluded that criminal charges against President Biden for mishandling highly classified information for decades and “willfully retain[ing]and disclos[ing] classified information after his vice presidency” were not warranted, in part, because a jury would perceive him as an “elderly man with a poor memory.”

The Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans wrote,“We, like our colleagues on the House Judiciary and House Oversight and Accountability Committees, believe the tapes are necessary to assist with the Committee’s constitutional oversight of the Department of Justice. Further, we urge you, in the strongest possible terms, to comply with the valid subpoena by the House Judiciary and House Oversight and Accountability Committees as the law requires. It is unacceptable that you, the chief law enforcement officer of the United States, are continuing to defy a lawful command of Congress and that you have been held in contempt of Congress.”

They continued, “The American people deserve to be fully informed as to their President’s faculties, and there is every reason to believe that the President and his Administration have not been forthcoming on this issue. The threats to the United States are at an all-time high, red lights are blinking everywhere, and America cannot afford weak leadership… We strongly support our House colleagues in their pursuit of the recording and urge you to comply with the House subpoena. Further, we request that you immediately provide a copy of the recording to the Senate Judiciary Committee.”

CO-SIGNERS:

The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), John Kennedy (R-La.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/national-security/blackburn-op-ed-why-is-iran-at-the-olympics,Blackburn Op-Ed: Why Is Iran At The Olympics?,2024-08-09,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) wrote the following op-ed in OutKick questioning why Iran – a country plotting to assassinate President Donald Trump – is allowed to compete in the Olympic Games, which celebrate international unity, cooperation, and peace.

Why Is Iran At The Olympics?

Senator Marsha Blackburn

OutKick

Should a country enjoy the honor of participating in the Olympic Games — long defined by its aspirations of fostering international unity, cooperation, and peace — while plotting the assassination of a former U.S. president?

As more than three dozen athletes carried the banner of the Islamic Republic of Iran on Friday during the Opening Ceremony of the Paris Summer Olympics, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) made its answer clear: Absolutely.

While Iran’s athletes have been practicing to compete in everything from archery and canoeing to weightlifting and wrestling, the authoritarian regime has been busy with a much more vile effort: conspiring to murder former President Donald Trump, a revelation from U.S. authorities that came just days after the failed assassination attempt on the president in Butler, Pennsylvania.

While deeply troubling, the Iranian plot, which the regime so far denies, should come as no surprise. For years, the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism has plotted assassinations against senior Trump administration officials, including former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, resulting in federal charges against a member of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

IOC allows Iran to participate in Olympics",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/technology/blackburn-releases-parents-back-to-school-guide,Blackburn Releases Parents’ Back to School Guide,2024-08-09,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a Parents’ Guide to Kids Online Safety as children go back to school in Tennessee to equip parents with the information they need to keep their children safe while online.

“Big Tech is using all of their resources to keep children scrolling because addiction is their business model,” said Senator Blackburn. “As parents we must be proactive to protect our children from the harms of social media. Children are heading back to school and my Parents’ Guide to Kids Online Safety outlines helpful safety tips to refresh families on ways to protect children from predators and harmful content on social media.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/veterans/blackburn-moran-boozman-introduce-legislation-to-restrict-bonuses-to-senior-executives-at-va,"Blackburn, Moran, Boozman Introduce Legislation to Restrict Bonuses to Senior Executives at VA",2024-08-09,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and John Boozman (R-Ark.) – members of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee – introduced the Stop Government Rewards Enriching Executives in the District (Stop GREED) Act to prohibit PACT Act recruitment and retention incentive payments from going to Senior Executive Service (SES) employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office (VACO) in Washington, D.C.

“The VA must be held accountable for its egregious mishandling of the critical skill incentives that were included in the PACT Act,” said Senator Blackburn. “We must restore integrity and trust within the VA, and the Stop GREED Act would help ensure such a failure does not happen again.”

“The critical skills incentive payments that were included in the PACT Act were meant to improve recruitment and retention for difficult-to-fill positions across VA, not to increase the salaries of senior executives in Washington, D.C.,” said Senator Moran. “The bonuses to executives were a gross misuse of funds, especially in light of the VA’s budget shortfall failure, and we must make certain it does not happen again.”

“The PACT Act was intended to expand benefits to the men and women who wore our nation’s uniform now living with toxic exposure-related illnesses as a result of their service,” said Senator Boozman. “This legislation will ensure funds will be used to support the needs of veterans, not VA executives.”

BACKGROUND:

The Stop GREED Act follows the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) report that found the VA’s Under Secretaries of Health and Benefits improperly approved $10.8 million in PACT Act recruitment and retention incentive payments to VACO’s senior executives rather than rank-and-file employees across the country.

The Stop GREED Act also follows the VA’s recent announcement of a budgetary shortfall of $3 billion in FY2024 and nearly $12 billion in FY2025 that may cause a delay in veterans benefits without action from Congress by September 20. VACO senior executives involved with this budget mismanagement were approved for recruitment and retention incentive bonuses worth tens of thousands of dollars. The VA has been recovering the improper recruitment and retention incentive payments since the scandal became public but without legislative action, the VA would be able to use these bonus payments to reward VACO executives again in the future.

The recruitment and retention incentive authority from the PACT Act was intended to strengthen the delivery of health care and benefits to veterans by providing incentives to retain highly-skilled, rank-and-file employees across the country, including human resources staff, police officers and housekeepers in the VA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z
https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/8/issues/technology/commerce-committee-passes-blackburn-cantwell-young-bipartisan-bill-to-ensure-u-s-leads-global-ai-innovation,"Commerce Committee Passes Blackburn, Cantwell, Young Bipartisan Bill to Ensure U.S. Leads Global AI Innovation",2024-08-08,2024,2024-08,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passed the bipartisan Future of AI Innovation Act, which was introduced by Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) to maintain America’s leadership in the global race to develop artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.

The bill promotes strong partnerships between government, business, civil society and academia to advance AI research. It also authorizes the U.S. Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute (AISI) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and creates testbeds with national labs to accelerate groundbreaking AI innovation to spur future economic growth and protect national security.

“The Future of AI Innovation Act encourages coordination between the U.S. government and industry to capitalize on the promise of AI to revolutionize our lives,” said Senator Blackburn. “The bill mobilizes the expertise of our National Laboratories, like Oak Ridge National Laboratory, to create testbeds for synthesizing new materials for AI systems. It would also require the identification of regulatory barriers to AI innovation and strengthens our national posture in standard setting bodies – making sure the government helps, rather than hinders, technological advancement. These policies will help us use AI to find solutions for important issues facing Americans today, including detecting fentanyl and illicit contraband and improving border security.”

“The Cantwell-Young Future of AI Innovation Act builds on recommendations of the National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee to encourage strong public-private collaboration, drive innovation and support U.S. competitiveness,” said Senator Cantwell, Chair of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. “It codifies the AI Safety Institute at NIST that is already developing voluntary guidelines and tests for advanced AI models and systems, and will gather leading private sector and government experts to promote voluntary standards. Our bill will also create joint testbeds with our national laboratories to assess the most complex AI models, create new materials for advanced manufacturing and make new scientific discoveries for the benefit of the U.S. economy.”

“The Future of AI Innovation Act is critical to maintaining American leadership in the global race to advance AI. This bipartisan bill will create important partnerships between government, the private sector, and academia to establish voluntary standards and best practices that will ensure a fertile environment for AI innovation while accounting for potential risks. One of my top priorities for federal AI policy is to ensure these technologies are developed in a manner that reflects our democratic values and supports innovation continuing to flourish in the United States, and today’s vote represents an important step forward in that effort,” said Senator Young.

THE FUTURE OF AI INNOVATION ACT:

Authorizes the NIST AI Safety Institute to Develop AI Standards: Formally establishes the AI Safety Institute at NIST to develop measurement science, voluntary guidelines, and rigorous testing for advanced AI models and systems to ensure AI reliability.

Creates New AI Testbeds with National Laboratories to Evaluate AI Models and Make Discoveries that Benefit the U.S. Economy: Creates testbed programs between NIST, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the private sector to do in-depth evaluation of the most complex AI models and create new materials for advanced manufacturing.

Creates Grand Challenge Prize Competitions to Spur Private Sector AI Solutions and Innovation: Grand challenges elevate and expedite high-priority projects and engage researchers across the country for the benefit of the nation’s competitiveness. Grand challenges are aimed at overcoming barriers to the further development of AI and computing, microelectronics, advanced manufacturing, and other economic priorities like breakthroughs in maritime vessel propulsion systems and border security, including fentanyl and illegal drug detection.

Accelerates AI Innovation with Publicly Available Datasets: Directs federal science agencies to make curated datasets available for public use to accelerate new advancements in AI applications, including solutions to global challenges in agriculture, medicine, transportation, manufacturing, and more. Unlocking datasets will help make discoveries in AI and benefit small and medium businesses that often don't have access to as much data.

Creates International Alliances on AI Innovation and Standards: Directs the Department of Commerce, NSF, and Department of State to seek an alliance with the most technologically advanced, like-minded democracies to cooperate on AI innovation and standards.

ENDORSEMENTS:

On Monday, more than 45 leading tech organizations, companies, and AI safety policy advocates from across the AI community urged passage of the legislation to codify the U.S. AI Safety Institute at NIST. View more supporters of the bill here.

CO-SPONSORS:

John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) also co-sponsored the legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:36:13Z