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://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/fiscal-year-2023-omnibus-bill-provides-billions-in-federal-funding-for-alabama-projects,Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Bill Provides Billions in Federal Funding for Alabama Projects,2022-12-28,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) celebrated the inclusion of billions in federal funding for the state of Alabama in the Fiscal Year 2023 omnibus funding bill, which passed the House and Senate last week.

“I was thrilled to vote in favor of the FY23 funding bill because I know that it will be a game changer for the people of Alabama,” said Rep. Sewell. “I would also like to thank Senator Richard Shelby for his work to ensure that Alabama received a historic amount of funding during his last year as a United States Senator. His leadership, his pragmatic approach to governing, and his fierce advocacy for the people of Alabama will be missed.”

The FY23 Omnibus funding bill includes the following funding for Alabama:

$76 million for the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) Heersink School of Medicine to build a new biomedical research building.

$55 million for the Secret Service’s National Computer Forensics Institute (NCFI), located in Hoover, to expand training opportunities for state and local law enforcement and legal and judicial professionals in computer forensics and cyber investigations.

$5 million for the Secret Service’s Cyber Fraud Task Forces to increase mission effectiveness and provide modern investigative capabilities to combat transnational crimes.

$23 million to repurpose and renovate NCFI facilities to accommodate for the ongoing growth of the program.

$30 million in funding for Alabama’s Northern Beltline of the Appalachian Development Highway System.

$47.5 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an increase of nearly $2.5 billion above FY22 funding level.

$7.32 billion for the National Cancer Institute (NCI), an increase of $407.6 million from FY22.

$923 million for the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS).

$629 million for Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs), which continues funding for a CTSA award at UAB.

$25 million in grant funding for the Regional Pediatric Pandemic Network, a network of ten Children’s hospitals, including Children’s of Alabama.

$52 million in targeted funds for Regional Biocontainment Laboratories (RBLs) to test FDA-approved drugs at research institutions across the country, including UAB.

$280.295 million for the NIH, Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) Initiative, to address addiction and develop alternatives to opioids for safe and effective pain management.

$520.163 million for the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research and continued support of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network, founded and hosted at UAB.

$47 million for Area Health Education Centers (AHECs), which supports the Alabama Statewide AHEC Program that is hosted within the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine.

$119 million for the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), which supports the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Recreational Technologies (RERC Rec-Tech) in Birmingham.

$8 million in Emerging Infectious Diseases for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to utilize its clinical trial partners and the Mycoses Study Group, which is affiliated with UAB.

Funding consistent with cooperative agreement to support the Department of Energy’s National Carbon Capture Center in Wilsonville, Alabama.

$4.5 million, $1.5 million above the FY22 enacted level, for the NIST Cybersecurity of Genomic Data program, which supports ongoing research in cybersecurity for genomic and biomedical-based systems at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

$15 million military construction project building a Commercial Vehicle Inspection Gate at Maxwell Air Force Base.

$6+ million military construction project building a F-35 Weapons Load Crew Training facility at the Montgomery Regional Airport.

$50 million for the University of Alabama for a permanent endowment fund to support the recruitment and retention of exceptional faculty in science and engineering.

$45 million to the University of Alabama to construct the Center for Hydrologic Computing, which will support CIROH and its co-located partners, the NWC and the USGS Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility (HIF), in hydrologic research, education, and forecasting.

$10 million for The University of Alabama for an institute on public service and leadership, including a scholars program.

$100 million for the Alabama Department of Transportation to replace the existing Woolsey Finnell Bridge with a six-lane bridge in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

$26 million for the Tuscaloosa National Airport for the design and construction of additional runway length.

$45 million in grant funding for the nation’s protection and advocacy (P&A) system, which includes the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) in Tuscaloosa.

$40 million in formula State grants for Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI), which supports the ADAP PAIMI program in Tuscaloosa.

Provides funding to the U.S. Geological Survey to support the new USGS Hydrological Instrumentation facility, which is located at the University of Alabama:

$13.5 million to support integrated water prediction operations;

$4 million to assist in future hydrological research and operational efforts;

$4.5 million for university partnerships for innovative water resource sensor technologies.

$5 million for the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to establish a Center forPaleo-environmental Records of Extreme Events, which will be located at the University of Alabama.

No less than $38.5 million to support staffing and operations at the National Water Center (NWC), which is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

$28.25 million, $8.25 million above the FY22 enacted level, for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Cooperative Institute for Research to Operations in Hydrology (CIROH), which is located at the University of Alabama, to assist NOAA and the National Water Center in addressing the nation’s growing water-related challenges and leveraging CIROH expertise for most operationally relevant research.

$1 million is maintained for the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Service to collaborate on research priorities with the NOAA CIROH.

Supports the President’s budget request of $133.6 million for Army Corps of Engineers’ dredging projects throughout the State of Alabama.

Additional $26.4 million above the President’s budget request to support further Army Corps’ dredging operations along multiple waterways and bays in Alabama.

$35 million for the construction of a new math and science facility at Marion Military Institute.

$50 million for the Department of Labor (DOL) Workforce Opportunities for Rural Communities (WORC) program, to provide enhanced worker training in the Appalachian, Delta, and Northern Border regions.

$385 million for the Children’s Hospitals Graduate Medical Education (CHGME), which will increase Pediatric residencies at Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Mobile and Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham.

$3.98 billion for the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to continue addressing Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and prioritized funding that reduces CVD among the hardest-hit—African Americans living in the rural South.

$24.343 million for Nursing Workforce Diversity to increase nursing education opportunities for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing student stipends, scholarships, and preparation and retention activities.

$40 million for the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases’ Advanced Molecular Detection (AMD) program, which brings cutting edge technology to the front lines of public health by harnessing the power of next-generation sequencing and high performance computing with bioinformatics and epidemiology expertise to study pathogens.

$362.8 million for the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to conduct research and make recommendations for the prevention of work-related illness and injury. Including:

$32 million for Education and Research Centers and;

$29 million for the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Program.

$196.5 million for the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) to support research related to identifying and reducing health disparities.

$9.5 million for the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) to continue the NTID’s current Regional STEM Center (NRSC).

$6 million for the Center for Assistive Technology Training (CATT) regional partnership, a collaboration between the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) and the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB).

$8.5 million for Gallaudet University’s regional partnership through the Early Language Acquisition Project (ELAP), headquartered at the AIDB in Talladega.

$715.5 million for Adult Career, Technical, and Education (CTE) State grants.

$80 million in grant funding for biomedical research facilities to expand, remodel, renovate, or alter existing research facilities or construct new research facilities.

$205.6 million for the National Center on Birth Defects, Developmental Disability and Health (NCBDDD), including $2.5 million for partnership between national disability organizations, such as the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) located in Birmingham.

$25 million for Graduate Psychology Education (GPE) to increase the number of health-service psychologists to high-need, underserved populations in urban and rural communities.

$90 million for the Supporting Effective Educator Development (SEED) program, which supports evidence-based professional development for teachers, principals, and other school leaders, teacher and leader preparation and other activities.

$373.5 million for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) to enhance the quality, appropriateness, and effectiveness of health services, as well as access to such services.

$20.15 million for the Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights (PAIR) program, which provides grants to agencies to protect and advocate for the legal and human rights of persons with disabilities who are ineligible for the protection and advocacy services available through the Development Disabilities and Bill of Rights Act.

$13.118 million for the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Program, which supports the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services in Montgomery.

$81 million for State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, which supports the Alabama State Council for Developmental Disabilities in Montgomery.

$1.43 billion for the National Center for Chronic Disease and Health Promotion, including $58.42 million for Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity.

$2 million for the National Lupus Outreach and Clinical Trial Education Program.

Provides funding to the Rural Utilities Service and Farm Service Agency for water-related technical assistance programs, which positively impact rural communities in Alabama:

$75 million for the Watershed Flood and Prevention Program, including a set-aside and language to exempt watershed projects that impact areas greater than 250,000 acres, which helps expand irrigation agriculture projects in Alabama;

$21.18 million for the Circuit Rider Program.

$3 million to continue the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service pilot program to assist statewide departments of agriculture and forestry commissions, including the Alabama Forestry Commission, in controlling the spread of cogon grass.

$400,000 for the Army Corps of Engineers to continue a feasibility study on riverine fish passages at Claiborne and Millers Ferry Locks and Dams on the lower Alabama River.

$30.1 million for the Delta Regional Authority, including $15 million for flood control, basic public infrastructure development, and transportation improvements.

$200 million for the Appalachian Regional Commission, including $65 millionfor the POWER initiative that provides federal funding to help communities and regions affected by job losses in coal mining and coal power plant operations, $16.5 million for industrial site and workforce development in Southern and South Central Alabama, and $8 million for Local Development Districts.

$135 million for the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization program and language to expedite and streamline the OSMRE review process of AMLER projects, which supports the Alabama Department of Labor in funding projects in Alabama.

$4.4 million for State Aquatic Nuisance Species Management Plans, which will support the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ efforts to prevent and control the spread of aquatic nuisance species throughout the State of Alabama.

Provided funding for the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Legacy Restoration Fund projects in Alabama:

$7.451 million for the Freedom Riders National Monument",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-secures-historic-42-8-million-in-direct-funding-for-local-projects-in-fiscal-year-2023-government-funding-package,Rep. Sewell Secures Historic $42.8 Million in Direct Funding for Local Projects in Fiscal Year 2023 Government Funding Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs in Alabama’s 7th District

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that she secured $42,820,760 for 15 community projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District in the final Fiscal Year 2023 omnibus government funding package. This funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs in the 7th District. The package passed the House today by a vote of 225 to 201. Having previously passed the Senate, it now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“I am overjoyed to report that over $42 million in direct funding is on its way to Alabama’s 7th Congressional District from this year’s government funding package!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “My team and I have worked diligently all year to ensure that money for these fifteen projects gets included in the annual funding bill so that we can make our communities safer, stronger, and more prosperous. With this historic funding, we are responding directly to some of our district’s most pressing needs and reversing decades of disinvestment!”

Rep. Sewell championed funding for 15 projects that will directly benefit the residents of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. These include:

Jefferson County

$4,000,000 for the Valley Creek Rails to Trails in Birmingham - Funding will be used to redevelop and construct a 4.57-mile recreation and transportation project forlow-income city residents.

$750,000 for the Bethel Baptist Church Family Child Care Center in Birmingham - Funding will be used to construct a multi-purpose community center providing child care and educational support for youth & families in a neighborhood that has experienced economic hardship and overall lack of investment for decades.

$500,000 for the Birmingham-Southern College for experiential learning and civic engagement - Funding will be used to provide meaningful student support in higher education and strengthen the institution's ability to facilitate placement in high-impact internships and jobs through multiple offerings of the Krulak Institute on campus.

$2,000,000 for the Lovelady Center in Birmingham for facilities and equipment - Funding will be used to rehabilitate two dormitories, each housing 30 individual women. These two separate dormitories will be utilized as part of the intake process of the addiction recovery program.

Montgomery County

$4,000,000 for the City of Montgomery Blight Project - Funding will be used to redevelop blighted properties within the City of Montgomery and revitalize neighborhoods that have historically seen a lack of investment opportunities.

$15,000,000 for the Commercial Vehicle Inspection Gate at Maxwell Air Force Base - Funding will be used to construct a commercial vehicle inspection and entry control facility area. This project will provide perimeter protection and security of Air Force personnel and assets, prevent unauthorized access, and maximize traffic flow.

$6,800,000 for the F-35 Weapons Load Crew Training Facility at the Montgomery Regional Airport (ANG) Base - Funding will be used to construct a Weapons Load Crew Training facility utilizing conventional design and construction methods to accommodate the mission of the facility. This arrangement will improve the ability to train weapons load crews and certify their continued readiness.

Dallas County

$4,000,000 for the Selma Riverfront Multi-plex - Funding will be used to acquire, redevelop, and construct a center for essential public safety services accessible for all members of the community.

$500,000 for the Orrville Public Library - Funding will be used for the construction of a new municipal public library providing access to educational resources for a historically underserved community.

$1,500,000 for the Historic Brown Chapel AME Church Restoration - Funding will be used to stabilize the structure of the building to allow for further restoration of the sanctuary, bell towers, and brickwork.

Marengo County

$1,143,018 for the Tombigbee Healthcare Authority in Demopolis forfacilities and equipment - Funding will be used to address many of the ongoing public health issues experienced in our region by providing high schoolers with the opportunity to rotate through the many clinical and non-clinical departments at the hospital.

Wilcox County

$595,041 for the J. Paul Jones Hospital, Camden, AL for facilities and equipment - Funding will be used to modernize the hospital's laboratory department to allow seamless communication with other data systems, reducing manual workload.

Clarke County

$1,000,000 for the Health Care Authority Corporation of the City of Thomasville, AL for facilities and equipment - Funding will be used to improve healthcare clinical outcomes in Thomasville and the larger Black Belt area of Alabama. The funding will provide basic and advanced treatments for many who otherwise lack access to such services and are prohibited by costs from traveling long distances to the otherwise closest providers.

Greene County

$521,100 for the Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home in Eutaw forfacilities and equipment - Funding will be used to purchase and install two new generators, providing important protections and 24-hour care in the case of an emergency or power outage.

Hale County

$511,601 for the Alabama Emergency Management Agency for Hale County Storm Shelters - Funding will be used to construct 6 storm shelters in Hale County Alabama. Many rural areas across Alabama's Black Belt, including communities in Hale County, do not have access to storm shelters. The construction of these shelters would create a safe location for residents to seek shelter during severe storms.

The twelve-bill government funding package will create good-paying American jobs, grow opportunity for the middle class and small businesses, and provide a lifeline for working families. Taken together, the funding for Alabama’s 7th District and the funding increases forcritical government programs will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities.

More information on the Fiscal Year 2023 omnibus government funding bill can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-votes-for-final-fiscal-year-2023-government-funding-package,Rep. Sewell Votes for Final Fiscal Year 2023 Government Funding Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation includes major wins for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass the Fiscal Year 2023 omnibus government funding package. The twelve-bill Consolidated Appropriations Act will avert a shutdown, fully fund the government through 2023, create good-paying jobs, and support working families in Alabama and across the nation. Rep. Sewell secured the inclusion of key legislative priorities and major wins for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District including language from at least six bills that she led or co-led. The package passed the House today by a vote of 225 to 201. Having previously passed the Senate, it now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“The programs that we choose to fund in the annual appropriations package are a direct reflection of the values that we as a nation hold dear,” said Rep. Sewell. “With this year’s government funding package we’re uplifting working families, creating jobs, strengthening our economy, and protecting democracy at home and abroad. The package also makes key investments critical to the success of Alabama’s 7th District including in health care, broadband, wastewater infrastructure, food and housing assistance, Civil Rights historic preservation, and our cherished HBCUs.”

“I’m thrilled that this package includes several of my own bills to strengthen and expand access to health care for Alabama’s rural communities,” continued Sewell. “I know that these bills will make a big difference for our rural Alabamians and the health care providers who serve them.”

The omnibus contains major wins for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District including a number of health care bills led or co-led by Rep. Sewell. Together, these bills will protect access to ambulance services, combat the opioid crisis, get more physicians into rural and underserved communities, support rural hospitals, and increase access to mental health care.

H.R. 2454 – Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act: The bill will ensure that ambulance service providers, including rural providers and those in underserved communities, are able to continue delivering quality critical first responder and health care services. It would extend the current temporary Medicare ground ambulance reimbursement increases of 2% urban, 3% rural, and the super rural bonus payments for five years and would ensure that rural zip codes continue to be classified as rural following the 2020 Census ZIP Code reclassification.

H.R. 3259 – NOPAIN ACT: The bill will combat the opioid crisis by breaking down barriers to non-opioid pain management for those enrolled in Medicare. Specifically, it will address payment disincentives for practitioners to prescribe non-opioid treatment alternatives in surgical settings by requiring the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to place non-opioid treatments on par with other separately paid drugs and devices in Medicare Part B.

H.R. 2256 – Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act: The omnibus includes language from Rep. Sewell’s Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act which will address the nation’s physician shortage by adding 200 Medicare-funded graduate medical education (GME) residency positions.

H.R. 1887 – Rural Hospitals Support Act: The bill will provide a lifeline to rural hospitals by extending the Medicare low-volume hospital payment adjustment for two years through September 30, 2024.

H.R. 8892 – Access to Mental Health Services Act: The bill will break down barriers to mental health services, identify gaps in mental health coverage under private insurance, and help mental and behavioral health care providers better treat patients in accordance with best-practices.

Rep. Sewell also secured the inclusion of her bill to make it easier for part-time workers to save for retirement. H.R. 2944 will allow part-time workers to begin saving for retirement sooner by reducing the number of years of service required to make retirement contributions. As women are more likely to work part-time than men, this provision is particularly important for women in the workforce.

The omnibus also advances some of the 7th District’s most pressing needs by:

Continuing to Expand Rural Broadband – The legislation invests over $455 million for the expansion of broadband service to provide economic development opportunities and improved education and healthcare services, including an additional $348 million for the ReConnect program. This is in addition to the $2 billion provided in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Investing in Rural Water and Wastewater Infrastructure – The legislation includes responsible infrastructure investments to help the country's rural areas access essential utilities. This includes $1.47 billion for rural water and waste program loans, and over $500 million in water and waste grants for clean and reliable drinking water systems and sanitary waste disposal systems, which will provide safe drinking water to millions of rural residents.

Providing Rural Housing Loans and Rental Assistance – The bill provides a total of $30 billion in loan authority for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program. The bill includes $1.25 billion in direct single family housing loans which provide home loan assistance to low-income rural families.

Funding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Child Nutrition Programs – The bill provides $153.8 billion in required mandatory spending for SNAP, including $3 billion for the SNAP reserve fund, which will serve more than 43 million people. It also includes $40 million for the Summer EBT program, $3 million forschool breakfast expansion grants, and $5.2 billion for school lunches.

Supporting our Service Members - The bill provides an 11% increase in funding formilitary personnel to help offset the costs of higher rent and food prices.

Promoting Civil Rights Historic Preservation - The bill provides $205 million forthe Historic Preservation Fund, including $30 million for competitive grants to preserve the sites and stories of the Civil Rights movement, and $11 million for HBCUs.

Funding our HBCUs - The bill provides $396 million for HBCUs, an increase of $33 million for the FY22 funding level.

The legislation also includes the Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act which provides $45 billion in emergency funding to support the Ukrainian people, defend global democracy in the wake of Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, and for other purposes. The Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act includes $27 billion in emergency funding to respond to the devastation that recent natural disasters and extreme weather events have left behind and help families, small businesses, and entire communities recover, $1 billion forincreased investments in scientific and environmental research, and $10 billion for other non-defense programs.

A detailed summary of the bill is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-s-legislation-designating-alabama-s-black-belt-as-a-national-heritage-area-passes-the-house-and-senate,Rep. Sewell’s Legislation Designating Alabama’s Black Belt as a National Heritage Area Passes the House and Senate,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) celebrated as her bill, H.R. 3222, the Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area Act, passed the House and Senate. The legislation will designate the 14 counties of Alabama’s Black Belt as a National Heritage Area, preserving the rich history of the region while creating new funding and tourism opportunities. H.R. 3222 passed the House in July 2022 by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 365-57. An amended version was included in S. 1942, the National Heritage Act, which passed the Senate unanimously on December 20, 2022. Today, the House passed the amended version by a vote of 326 to 95, sending it to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“Today is a truly historic day for Alabama’s Black Belt!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “For the first time, many historic areas in the Black Belt will be designated as a National Heritage Area, freeing up additional federal resources for historic preservation, tourism, and economic development. Passage of this bill is the culmination of years of tireless advocacy and negotiation on behalf of the residents of the Black Belt!”

“As the birthplace of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights movements, the Black Belt is where some of the most consequential chapters of American history played out,” continued Sewell. “As a proud daughter of the Black Belt, I’m thrilled that this region will be getting the national recognition it deserves, and I remain endlessly grateful to my colleagues for their support in this worthwhile endeavor!”

National Heritage Areas are established by Congress for the purpose of assisting efforts to protect and promote communities that are regarded as distinctive because of their culture, history, resources, and environment. These historic areas are authorized to receive up to $1 million in federal funding annually to preserve, protect and promote important sites. Under the Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area Act, the University of West Alabama would collaborate with the National Park Service and Black Belt communities to determine a strategic management plan.

“Designating Alabama’s Black Belt as a National Heritage Area is a tremendous achievement and marks the culmination of more than a decade of work and support by countless volunteers and organizations not only across the Black Belt but from throughout the State of Alabama and across the nation,” said Dr. Tina Naremore Jones, Assistant Provost and Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development at the University of West Alabama. “Our grassroots organizations have been steadfast supporters of this effort, and we are thankful for Congresswoman Sewell and Senator Shelby’s leadership in moving this legislation forward.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-votes-for-the-puerto-rico-status-act,Rep. Sewell Votes for the Puerto Rico Status Act,2022-12-15,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for H.R. 8393, the Puerto Rico Status Act, to allow the residents of Puerto Rico to make an informed choice on their political future. The Puerto Rico Status Act is a compromise between the sponsors of two bills seeking to resolve Puerto Rico’s territorial status: the Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act and the Puerto Rico Self-Determination Act. It would provide residents an opportunity to select from three non-territorial, fully self-governing political status options: Statehood, Independence, and Sovereignty in Free Association with the United States. The bill passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 233-191.

“I’m proud to stand in support of self-determination for the people of Puerto Rico in voting for the Puerto Rico Status Act,” said Rep. Sewell. “For too long, the residents of Puerto Rico have been denied the opportunity to freely determine their own political status. This bill is about righting that wrong and placing the future of Puerto Rico back into the hands of Puerto Ricans where it belongs.”

The Puerto Rico Status Act would:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-to-serve-in-democratic-leadership-in-118th-congress-as-chief-deputy-whip,Rep. Sewell to Serve in Democratic Leadership in 118th Congress as Chief Deputy Whip,2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Assistant Speaker and Incoming Democratic Whip Katherine M. Clark (MA-05) announced the selection of Rep. Terri A. Sewell (AL-07) to serve as a Chief Deputy Whip for the 118th Congress. Rep. Sewell has served as a Chief Deputy Whip since she was appointed in the 113th Congress in 2013.

“It is with great pride that I accept the honor of serving as a Chief Deputy Whip under the leadership of Democratic Whip Katherine Clark for the 118th Congress,” said Rep. Sewell. “I look forward to working alongside House Democrats’ strong and dynamic new leadership team to protect our progress, further strengthen our economy, and advance the needs of America’s working families. I am confident that working together, we can continue to deliver lower prices, safer communities, and more opportunities for communities in Alabama and across our nation.

“Congresswoman Sewell is a proven leader, and as a member of the Whip team, she will help House Democrats secure opportunity and justice for every American,” said Assistant Speaker and Incoming Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “Our Chief Deputy Whips represent the incredible diversity of experience and perspectives that embody the House Democratic Caucus. Unified in our mission, we will harness the strength of House Democrats to advance the needs of working families and defeat the Republican extremist agenda.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-votes-for-fiscal-year-2023-national-defense-authorization-act,Rep. Sewell Votes for Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Annual defense bill would honor America’s service members and strengthen national security

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell voted for H.R. 7776, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023. This legislation will strengthen America’s national security, honor the heroism of Alabama service members, and make critical investments in research capabilities at HBCUs and minority-serving institutions (MSI). Notably, the package authorizes $15 million for a commercial vehicle inspection gate at Maxwell Air Force Base and $9.2 million for a F-35 weapons load crew training facility at Montgomery Regional Airport Base. Funding must still be appropriated in the end-of-year omnibus funding bill.

“The responsibility to ensure that our service members can keep our nation safe and free is one that I will never take lightly,” said Rep. Sewell. “I’m thrilled that this year’s defense bill includes a hard-earned raise for our service members and authorizes millions of dollars for Maxwell Air Force Base and Montgomery Regional Airport Base. This NDAA will bolster America’s national security and advance our leadership on the world stage, and I was proud to vote for it.”

Passed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense. This legislation allows the Armed Forces to pay, train and equip U.S. service members, support America’s allies around the world, and carry out essential national security operations.

With this year’s NDAA, House Democrats have advanced a range of key priorities:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-votes-to-enshrine-marriage-equality-under-federal-law,Rep. Sewell Votes to Enshrine Marriage Equality Under Federal Law,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to send H.R. 8404, the Respect for Marriage Act, to President Biden’s desk. This landmark legislation, which passed the House today by a vote of 258 to 169, takes several key steps to defend marriage equality: officially repealing the unconstitutional “Defense of Marriage Act” (DOMA), upholding couples’ right to equal protection under federal law, and requiring states to recognize valid out-of-state marriages.

“No American should be discriminated against because of who they love,” said Rep. Sewell. “As the Supreme Court threatens to strip away more of Americans’ hard-fought personal liberties, I’m proud that this Democratic Congress is standing up for the dignity and equality of every American by sending the Respect for Marriage Act to President Biden’s desk. As the representative of America’s Civil Rights District, I will always fight for the equal treatment of all Americans under the law!”

Since the Republican-appointed Supreme Court’s outrageous Dobbs decision, right-wing extremists have set their sights on stripping away Americans’ basic personal freedoms. In his concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas explicitly called for the Court to reconsider its Obergefell decision upholding marriage equality.

The Respect for Marriage Act will take several steps to protect same-sex and interracial marriages:

Repealing the “Defense of Marriage Act”: While the Supreme Court has effectively voided DOMA, this unconstitutional and discriminatory federal law still remains on the books. The Respect for Marriage Act will repeal this statute once and for all.

Enshrining Marriage Equality Into Federal Law: This legislation will uphold married couples’ right to equal protection in all areas covered under federal law, such as Social Security, tax filings and veterans’ benefits.

Barring Discrimination By State Officials: This legislation prohibits state officials from denying recognition of an out-of-state marriage on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity or national origin.

Previously passed by the House earlier this year, the Respect for Marriage Act was amended and advanced by the Senate last week. With today’s vote in the House, the final bill now heads to the President’s desk for his signature.

The Respect for Marriage Act is strongly supported by leading advocacy organizations, including the ACLU, Center for American Progress, Equality Federation, Family Equality, Freedom for All Americans, GLAD, Human Rights Campaign, Lambda Legal, National Black Justice Coalition, National Center for Lesbian Rights, National Women’s Law Center and PFLAG.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/reps-sewell-and-smucker-and-sens-hickenlooper-and-tillis-introduce-bill-to-expand-retirement-savings-for-working-americans,Reps. Sewell and Smucker and Sens. Hickenlooper and Tillis Introduce Bill to Expand Retirement Savings for Working Americans,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan, bicameral Retirement Savings for Americans Act would make saving for retirement reliable, real, and attainable for American workers

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) introduced H.R. 9462, the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to improve retirement security and financial well-being for low- and middle-income American workers. Specifically, the bill would establish a new program that gives eligible workers access to portable, tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts. It would also offer federal matching contributions for low- and middle-income workers, with the match beginning to phase out at median income. Companion legislation was introduced by Sens. John Hickenlooper (D-CO) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) in the U.S. Senate.

“Every Alabamian and every American should be able to retire with dignity after a lifetime of work,” said Rep. Sewell. “This critical, bipartisan legislation would address serious gaps in our retirement system and make it easier for low- and middle-income workers to save for retirement. I was proud to work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance this commonsense bill which would level the playing field for working families and build a stronger economy for all Americans.”

“I appreciate the opportunity to advance meaningful bipartisan legislation to assist hardworking Americans save for their retirement,” said Rep. Lloyd Smucker. “Our legislation, the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, will create a pathway for millions of Americans to find financial security in their retirement. I look forward to continuing to advance this legislation in the next Congress and building upon the successes of SECURE 2.0 to help Americans become financially secure in their retirements.”

“Too many Americans are working their entire adult lives only to reach retirement and find they don’t have enough saved,” said Sen. Hickenlooper. “Helping people save is an easy, efficient way to cut income inequality while making sure all workers get the retirement they’ve earned.”

“Roughly 40 million Americans lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, which represents a significant roadblock to achieving financial security for their retirement,” said Sen. Tillis. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this real problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options.”

Around one-third of private-sector workers lack access to a workplace retirement plan, and roughly half of households are at risk of taking a cut to their standard of living in retirement.

The bill contains the following provisions:

Eligibility and Auto Enrollment: Full- and part-time workers who lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan would be eligible for an account, and they would be automatically enrolled at 3% of their income. They could choose to increase or decrease their withholding, or opt out entirely at any time. Independent workers (including gig workers) would also be eligible.

Federal Contribution: Low- and moderate-income workers would be eligible for a 1% automatic contribution (as long as they remain employed) and up to a 4% matching contribution via a refundable federal tax credit. This would begin to phase out at median income.

Portability: Accounts would remain attached to workers throughout their lifetimes, and workers would be able to stop and start contributions at will.

Private Assets: The accounts would be the property of the worker and the assets could be passed down to future generations to help them build wealth and financial security.

Investment Options: Much like the current TSP, participants would be given a menu of simple, low-fee investment options to choose from, including lifecycle funds tied to a worker’s estimated retirement date, or index funds made of stocks and bonds.

“Far too many Americans are unprepared for retirement. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would tackle serious gaps in the U.S. retirement system that have hindered millions of workers from saving for a more certain and secure future,” said Economic Innovation Group (EIG) President and CEO John Lettieri. “By incorporating a range of proven features, this innovative legislation would greatly expand market access to high quality retirement plans and target savings incentives to workers who need them most. The result would be a healthier retirement system, a more secure workforce, and a stronger economy to the benefit of all Americans. EIG applauds Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Sewell and Smucker for their bipartisan dedication to empowering American workers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/rep-sewell-honors-rosa-parks-on-the-house-floor-on-the-67th-anniversary-of-her-arrest,Rep. Sewell Honors Rosa Parks on the House Floor on the 67th Anniversary of Her Arrest,2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the Floor of the House of Representatives to commemorate the 67th anniversary of the arrest of Rosa Parks.

A video recording of Rep. Sewell’s remarks can be viewed and downloaded here. Her remarks are transcribed below.

Rep. Sewell: Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an American native, an Alabama native, and Civil Rights icon, Mrs. Rosa Parks, on the 67th anniversary of her historic arrest.

On this day, December 1st, in 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, taking a bold stand against Montgomery’s segregated bus system. Her dignified courage sparked the beginning of the Montgomery bus boycott and changed the very fabric of our nation.

As the Representative of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of H.R. 5111, the Rosa Parks Day Act, which would designate today, December 1st, as a federal holiday in her honor.

This bill would ensure that her brave sacrifice will live on in American history forever and I urge my colleagues to sign on.

As we reflect on her courage, let us never forget the power of ordinary Americans to achieve extraordinary social change.

In the words of Rosa Parks, I urge you all to “never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/12/reps-sewell-arrington-ruiz-and-hudson-lead-bipartisan-letter-to-house-leadership-urging-consideration-of-medicare-multi-cancer-early-detection-screening-coverage-act-before-year-end,"Reps. Sewell, Arrington, Ruiz, and Hudson Lead Bipartisan Letter to House Leadership Urging Consideration of Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act Before Year-End",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Raul Ruiz (CA-36), and Richard Hudson (NC-08) led 116 of their House colleagues in a bipartisan letter urging House leadership to bring H.R. 1946 to the Floor for a vote during the remainder of the 117th Congress. The Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act would create a pathway for Medicare to cover emerging blood-based cancer screenings which hold the potential to detect cancer earlier than ever before. Rep. Sewell introduced H.R. 1946 in March 2021. With 257 House co-sponsors and 54 Senate co-sponsors, it enjoys the support of a bipartisan majority of the House and Senate and over 400 organizations across the nation.

The letter reads in part: “No family in America has been spared the scourge of cancer. Indeed, for our nation’s seniors, the burden of cancer is highest, with more than 70% of all cancer deaths happening in the Medicare population. We must bring urgency and action to our fight against this terrible disease because the consequences of waiting are too great. We respectfully urge you to bring this bill to the floor this year and pave the way for a future where we win our war on cancer.”

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. However, detecting cancer early can result in less invasive treatments, reduced costs, and most importantly, better outcomes for patients. Fortunately, scientists are developing and testing innovative blood-based multi-cancer early detection tests that can screen for many cancers at the same time, including rare cancers. The companies engaged in multi-cancer screening have both received breakthrough device designation for their tests and are pursuing FDA approval. Unfortunately, under current law, it could take several years after FDA approval before Medicare beneficiaries could receive coverage for such tests.

The Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act responds to a misalignment between advances in science and Medicare coverage by allowing for Medicare coverage of multi-cancer screening. It would significantly reduce delays for Medicare beneficiaries, while allowing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to use its evidence-based process to determine coverage. Accordingly, these new multi-cancer screening tools will complement existing screenings and dramatically improve our nation’s cancer early detection capabilities.

Specifically, the legislation would:

Create the authority for CMS to cover blood-based multi-cancer early detection tests and future test methods (like urine or hair tests), once approved by the FDA. Congress has acted before to create coverage for other cancer screenings including mammography and colorectal screenings.

Maintain CMS’ authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests.

State that these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and cost sharing will not be impacted.

The letter is signed by: Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Raul Ruiz (CA-36), Richard Hudson (NC-08), Colin Allred (TX-32), Mark Amodei (NV-02), Kelly Armstrong (ND-AL), Don Bacon (NE-02), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Ami Bera (CA-07), Stephanie Bice (OK-22), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-AL), Brendan Boyle (PA-13), Shontel Brown (OH-09), Vern Buchanan (FL-13), Larry Bucshon (IN-08), Michael Burgess (TX-26), G. K. Butterfield (NC-01), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), André Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Sean Casten (IL-06), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), David Cicilline (RI-01), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Jim Costa (CA-20), Michael Cloud (TX-27), Jose Luis Correa (CA-46), Danny Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Suzan K. DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11), Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Neal Dunn (FL-02), Drew Ferguson (GA-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Mike Flood (NE-01), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Paul Gosar (AZ-04), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Michael Guest (MS-03), Kevin Hern (OK-01), Darrell Issa (CA-50), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), Daniel Kildee (MI-05), Sara Jacobs (CA-53), Henry Johnson (GA-04), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Ron Kind (WI-03), Ann Kuster (NH-02), David Kustoff (TN-08), Darin LaHood (IL-18), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Ted Lieu (CA-33), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Carolyn Maloney (NY-14), Tracey Mann (KS-11), Doris Matsui (CA-06), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Michael McCaul (CA-10), A. Donald McEachin (VA-04), James McGovern (MA-02), David McKinley (WV-01), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Daniel Meuser (PA-09), Carol Miller (WV-03), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02), John Moolenaar (MI-04), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Stephanie Murphy (FL-07), Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Donald Payne (NJ-10), Scott Peters (CA-52), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Bill Posey (FL-08), Deborah Ross (CA-02), Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Bobby Rush (IL-01), John Rutherford (FL-04), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Mary Scanlon (PA-05), David Schweikert (AZ-06), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Christopher Smith (NJ-04), Darren Soto (FL-09), Jackie Speier (CA-14), Greg Stanton (AZ-09), Michelle Steel (CA-48), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Claudia Tenney (NY-22), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), William Timmons (SC-04), Lori Trahan (MA-03), David Valadao (CA-21), Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02), Juan Vargas (CA-51), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-nominates-rep-hakeem-jeffries-to-serve-as-the-next-democratic-leader-in-the-house-of-representatives,Rep. Sewell Nominates Rep. Hakeem Jeffries to Serve as the Next Democratic Leader in the House of Representatives,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) proudly nominated Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, to serve as the next Democratic Leader in the House of Representatives. During a Democratic Caucus meeting this morning, Rep. Sewell and several of her colleagues placed the name of Hakeem Jeffries in nomination and spoke in support of his candidacy to succeed Speaker Nancy Pelosi as Democratic Leader.

“I have gotten to know Hakeem Jeffries since he came to Congress in 2013, and I am confident that he is the right person to lead our caucus during this season of change,” said Rep. Sewell. “Hakeem Jeffries is a skillful strategist, a master communicator, a pragmatic progressive, a visionary legislator, a criminal justice reformer, a dogmatic defender of our Democracy, a bodacious bridge builder, and a fierce fighter for our families, children, veterans, dreamers, workers, and our seniors. I was proud to nominate him to be our next Democratic Leader and look forward to seeing him make history as the first African American to ever lead either party in the House!”

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries has represented New York’s 8th Congressional District since 2013 and currently serves as Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus. He is poised to become the first African American to lead either party in the House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-passing-of-rep-donald-mceachin,Rep. Sewell Statement on the Passing of Rep. Donald McEachin,2022-11-29,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the passing of Rep. Donald McEachin (VA-04):

“I am heartbroken by the passing of our friend and colleague, Congressman Donald McEachin. I was honored to serve alongside him in the House and on the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Board of Directors.

“Virginia has lost a dedicated public servant and fighter for justice. I am keeping his wife, family, and staff in my prayers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-continues-her-congress-in-your-community-tour-with-town-halls-in-choctaw-and-marengo-counties,Rep. Sewell Continues her “Congress in Your Community” Tour with Town Halls in Choctaw and Marengo Counties,2022-11-22,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Demopolis, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) continued her “Congress in Your Community” tour, hosting town halls in Choctaw and Marengo Counties and announcing major funding that she helped secure for the West Central Alabama Area Health Education Center (AHEC). Each year, Sewell hosts a series of town hall meetings in each of the 14 counties that make up her district to give constituents an opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns and hear the latest in Congress. With today’s town halls, she has now visited all 14 counties in 2022.

“Hearing directly from my constituents helps me better represent the great people of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, which is why I’m proud to have visited all 14 counties of our district in 2022,” said Rep. Sewell. “I look forward to bringing these conversations back to the halls of Congress and continuing to work on your behalf to ensure our communities reach their fullest potential!”

During her Marengo County town hall, Rep. Sewell presented two checks to the West Central Alabama AHEC. The first check of $300,000 will allow the organization to purchase new equipment and create a community health worker initiative to recruit and train health care workers in the region. This is part of the over$8 million that Sewell secured in the Fiscal Year 2022 government funding package for community projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District.

The second check of $1 million comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) and will be used to combat the opioid epidemic by increasing access to treatment and recovery for rural Alabamians.

“Organizations like the West Central Alabama Area Health Education Center have worked tirelessly to advance health equity and have transformed the lives of so many,” continued Sewell. “I was so pleased to help secure this assistance to help them fulfill their mission, grow our health care workforce, and combat the opioid crisis here in West Central Alabama. I’m proud to call them a partner in the fight to eradicate health disparities and get our residents the quality, affordable health care they deserve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-statement-on-speaker-nancy-pelosi-stepping-down-from-democratic-leadership-in-the-house-of-representatives,Rep. Sewell Statement on Speaker Nancy Pelosi Stepping Down from Democratic Leadership in the House of Representatives,2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the decision by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to step down from Democratic Leadership in the House of Representatives:

“Speaker Nancy Pelosi is a true public servant whose tenure as Speaker of the House will be remembered as one of the most effective examples of leadership in modern history. For two decades, she has led the Democratic Caucus with dignity and grace, breaking down barriers for women and girls and putting the needs of the American people above all.

“I have been honored to partner with Speaker Pelosi to advance the needs of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District including our work to pass H.R. 4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. While she will no longer lead our caucus, I have no doubt that Speaker Pelosi will remain a powerful force for good in our party and our nation. I look forward to continuing to serve alongside her.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-meets-with-alex-drueke-and-andy-huynh,Rep. Sewell Meets with Alex Drueke and Andy Huynh,2022-11-16,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) met with Alex Drueke, Andy Huynh, and their families in her Washington D.C. office. The two Alabama men recently returned to the United States after being held captive by Russia for volunteering to assist the Ukrainian army as they fight off their invaders.

“I was honored to welcome Alex Drueke, Andy Huynh, and their families to our nation’s capital,” said Rep. Sewell. “These two men are brave defenders of democracy who displayed remarkable courage in the face of unspeakable abuse. I was proud to help secure their return to the United States and I join all Alabamians in celebrating their freedom!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/reps-sewell-cleaver-and-swalwell-introduce-bill-to-ensure-u-s-car-buyers-and-automakers-fully-benefit-from-cost-cutting-tax-credits,"Reps. Sewell, Cleaver, and Swalwell Introduce Bill to Ensure U.S. Car Buyers and Automakers Fully Benefit from Cost-Cutting Tax Credits",2022-11-04,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), and Eric Swalwell (CA-15) introduced the Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act which would ensure that car buyers and automakers in the United States—and particularly those in Alabama—may immediately and fully benefit from the cost-cutting and job-creating provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), including tax credits that will lower the costs of electric vehicles. The bill would create a phase-in for the electric vehicle (EV) sourcing and manufacturing requirement provisions for automakers that was included in the final version of the IRA.

“Democrats’ historic Inflation Reduction Act includes critical tax credits that are bringing down the cost of electric vehicles and making them more accessible to working and middle class Alabamians, all while accelerating our transition to a clean energy economy,” said Rep. Sewell. “The Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act is a win-win for Alabama, ensuring that automakers and car buyers alike can take advantage of these tax credits immediately. My Democratic colleague and I will continue working to tackle inflation and lower costs!”

“I’m proud to introduce the Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act with Congresswoman Sewell as we seek to lower energy costs for American families, create good-paying manufacturing jobs here at home, and accelerate our nation’s transition away from costly fossil fuels and toward affordable, clean vehicles,” said Rep. Cleaver. “Our legislation takes important steps to make the historic electric vehicle tax credits passed in the Inflation Reduction Act immediately accessible to consumers, particularly working- and middle-class Americans who would like to purchase an electric vehicle but need the federal credit to do so. As oil companies insist on continuing their exorbitant price-gouging of American families at the pump, these tax credits offer hardworking Americans immediate and significant financial assistance to help them purchase a vehicle that is better both for the environment and their wallets. This bill would be a major win for consumers, auto-workers, and businesses alike, and I will work with my colleagues to ensure it is signed into law by President Biden.”

The Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act would delay the IRA’s phase-in period for automakers to follow specific sourcing requirements for their EVs in order for car buyers to qualify for the federal tax credit. These requirements include: requiring the EVs to be manufactured in North America; requiring EV batteries to be made domestically; and mandating that critical minerals used in battery production are only sourced domestically or from nations with whom America has a free trade agreement. Alabama automakers need additional time to meet these new on-shoring requirements and bring planned domestic EV facilities online, including the forthcoming Hyundai EV facility scheduled to open in 2025 in Bryan County, GA.

Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-announces-7-3-million-in-usda-rural-development-funding-from-the-american-rescue-plan-to-improve-rural-health-care-facilities-across-alabama,Rep. Sewell Announces $7.3 Million in USDA Rural Development Funding from the American Rescue Plan to Improve Rural Health Care Facilities Across Alabama,2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Demopolis, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $7.3 million in funding from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Alabama Office of Rural Development to support rural health care providers and improve rural health care facilities across Alabama. This funding was made possible by the American Rescue Plan’s Emergency Rural Health Care Grants Program and will benefit nearly 200,000 rural residents in 10 Alabama counties. Rep. Sewell was the only member of the Alabama Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan.

“Since coming to Congress, I have made it a top priority to improve access to quality, affordable health care in rural Alabama, which is why I proudly voted to deliver historic relief to our rural health care providers through the American Rescue Plan,” said Rep. Sewell. “This transformational funding will impact hundreds of thousands of rural Alabamians and will equip providers with the tools they need to provide lifesaving care.”

""For those who are living in rural Alabama, access to healthcare is a very important issue,"" said USDA Rural Development Alabama State Director Nivory Gordon. ""For some families, being able to access modern healthcare facilities can factor in the family's decision to locate to or stay in a rural community. In order to make sure that rural Alabamians have equal access to healthcare as those who live in our urban centers, USDA is working to help support rural healthcare systems. The investments announced here today will help to ensure these healthcare providers can continue to serve those communities that they proudly call home.""

These investments will be used for projects to help rural hospitals and health care providers implement telehealth and nutrition assistance programs, increase staffing to administer COVID-19 vaccines and testing, build or renovate facilities, and purchase medical supplies. They will also help regional partnerships, public bodies, nonprofits and Tribes solve regional rural health care problems, which will help build a stronger, more sustainable rural health care system in response to the pandemic.

The following projects are receiving funding:

In Pike County, the Troy Hospital Healthcare Authority will use a $120,100 grant to install an energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. This system will be an energy cost-savings for the hospital, and also help reduce exposure to COVID-19 and other airborne contagious illnesses. This investment will benefit 32,889 rural residents in Pike County and surrounding areas.

In Franklin County, the Russellville Hospital will use a $1,000,000 grant to to continue the vital primary care needed in rural Russellville, Alabama. This project will provide the hospital with needed renovations that will help to protect against future pandemics. In addition, the project will help purchase supplies that were depleted during the COVID-19 pandemic. This investment will benefit 9,830 rural residents in Franklin County and surrounding areas.

In Tallapoosa County, the Russell Hospital Corporation will use a $426,600 grant to reimburse lost healthcare related revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the response, the hospital expended funds to establish testing sites, vaccine clinics, and purchase personal protective equipment. This investment will benefit 66,737 rural residents in Tallapoosa County and surrounding areas.

In Bullock County, the Bullock County Development Authority will use a $299,600 grant to purchase a vehicle to be used as a mobile health care clinic, and to store supplies and equipment. This vehicle will provide outreach to the community and offer services such as COVID-19 vaccines, COVID-19 testing, primary care services, and management of chronic health problems. This investment will benefit 5,612 rural residents in Bullock County and surrounding areas.

In Butler County, the Healthcare Authority of the City of Greenville will use a $1,000,000 grant to to reimburse lost health care related revenue during the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the hospital's response to the pandemic, it expended funds to set up testing sites, vaccine clinics, and purchased personal protective equipment. This investment will benefit 8,135 rural residents of Butler County and surrounding areas.

In Geneva County, the Geneva County Health Care Authority will use a $999,300 grant to offset expenses which were incurred by the hospital due to its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to prepare for a future pandemic-level event. As part of the response to the pandemic, the hospital expended funds to set up testing sites, vaccine clinics, and to purchase personal protective equipment. This project will also help increase the hospital's medical surge capabilities and telehealth capacity. This investment will benefit 10,510 rural residents of Geneva County and surrounding areas.

In Marengo County, the Tombigbee Healthcare Authority will use a $910,000 grant to replace the Whitfield Regional Hospital's boiler system, which is necessary for the continued operation of the hospital. The previous boiler system suffered a mechanical failure, requiring the hospital to rent a replacement at great expense. This investment will allow the hospital to own the boiler and save money. This investment will benefit 21,027 rural residents of Marengo County and surrounding areas.

In Sumter County, the City of York Healthcare Authority DBA Hill Hospital of York will use a $114,000 grant to increase capacity for COVID-19 and other contagious illness vaccine distribution by purchasing a vehicle to transport clinical staff and a utility truck to transport equipment to a vaccination site. This investment will also be used to provide medical supplies such as personal protective equipment to increase the Hill Hospital's medical surge capacity, and to purchase videoconferencing equipment to increase the telehealth capabilities of the hospital. This investment will benefit 13,763 rural residents of Sumter County.

In Marion County, Marion Medical Center, Inc. will use a $437,500 grant to provide a specialized area within the hospital for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. This area will feature a specialized heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, and other equipment. This specialized unit will allow for centralized and isolated treatment of patients with COVID-19 and other contagious diseases. This investment will benefit 6,885 rural residents of Marion County.

Also in Marion County, the Healthcare Authority of Winfield, AL will use a $1,000,000 grant to renovate 10 rooms at the Northwest Regional Medical Center which is part of The Healthcare Authority of Winfield. These renovated rooms will be used to house long-term COVID-19 treatment patients, a rehabilitation unit, and other associated care. This specialized unit will allow for patients to be centralized and isolated for treatment of COVID-19 and other contagious diseases. This investment will benefit 10,978 rural residents of Marion County.

In Washington County, the Washington County Health Care Authority will use a grant of $1,000,000 to upgrade the facility's medical surge effectiveness and capacity in the event of a medical emergency. This project will provide equipment to establish a triage area in the hospital's multipurpose building, equipment to upgrade the hospital's camera security system including specialized COVID-19 features, laboratory, rehabilitation, and medical surgical equipment to provide care for patients, and for facility modifications such as a new helipad, computerized topography scanner room, and upgraded heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. This project will benefit 1,228 rural residents of Washington County.

For more information about these investments and USDA’s Emergency Rural Health Care Grants Program, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/11/rep-sewell-announces-over-34-million-in-usda-funding-to-expand-rural-internet-access-in-lowndes-county,Rep. Sewell Announces Over $34 Million in USDA Funding to Expand Rural Internet Access in Lowndes County,2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Lowndes County, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $34,781,800 to increase broadband connectivity and internet services throughout Lowndes County. This funding is a part of USDA’s ReConnect Program and will be used to connect a prospective 4,646 people, 154 farms, 96 businesses, and three public schools to high-speed internet in Lowndes County.

“As we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic, access to reliable high-speed internet is critical to the success of our communities,” said Rep. Sewell. “This $34 million investment represents a major step forward in our continued effort to connect rural Alabamians with broadband. I’m proud to partner with USDA Rural Development to ensure that Alabamians everywhere have access to the internet connectivity they need and deserve.”

“Communities across rural Alabama need access to high-speed internet in order to participate in the modern digital landscape,” said USDA Rural Development Alabama State Director, Nivory Gordon. “Whether it is for learning, conducting business, connecting with loved ones, or providing services which are not available locally, the lack of high-speed internet access has a direct impact on the quality of life for our rural families. That's why we here at USDA are working with high-speed internet providers to continue to connect rural Alabama to the world.”

Hayneville Telephone Company will use a grant of $34,781,800 to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network to connect 4,646 people, 154 farms, 96 businesses and three public schools to high-speed internet in Lowndes County, Alabama. Hayneville Telephone Company Inc. will make high-speed internet affordable by participating in the FCC's Affordable Connectivity and Lifeline programs. This project will serve socially vulnerable communities in Lowndes County. The grant announced today comes from the third funding round of the ReConnect Program.

Background: ReConnect Program

To be eligible for ReConnect Program funding, an applicant must serve an area that does not have access to service at speeds of 100 megabits per second (Mbps) (download) and 20 Mbps (upload). The applicant must also commit to building facilities capable of providing high-speed internet service with speeds of 100 Mbps (download and upload) to every location in its proposed service area.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/10/rep-sewell-accepting-applications-for-spring-2023-internsv,Rep. Sewell Accepting Applications for Spring 2023 Interns,2022-10-25,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her Washington D.C. and district offices are now accepting applications for spring 2023 interns. College students and recent graduates interested in government and public service are invited to apply for a chance to spend the semester learning about Congress and the inner workings of a congressional office. Throughout the spring semester, interns will work closely with Rep. Sewell’s staff on a variety of important legislative, communications, and administrative tasks. Applicants must be enrolled in a college or university (rising juniors and older) or have recently graduated.

“I’m thrilled to announce that our 2023 spring internship application is now live!” said Rep. Sewell. “As a former congressional intern myself, I know firsthand the power that such experiences hold to cultivate and inspire the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow. I encourage college students and recent graduates with an interest in government and public service to spend the semester learning and growing with me and my phenomenal team!”

Interns will have the opportunity to research legislation, draft letters, compile media clips, answer constituent calls, and attend legislative hearings, briefings, and seminars. Candidates should be proactive, professional, dependable, and have an interest in federal policy and the legislative process. Candidates should also possess strong written and oral communication skills, the ability to multitask, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

The Office of U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in the hiring process based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military service, or other non-merit factors. BIPOC applicants and individuals in underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/10/rep-sewell-welcomes-federal-railroad-administrator-amit-bose-to-alabama,Rep. Sewell Welcomes Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose to Alabama,2022-10-20,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL — Yesterday, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) welcomed Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose to Alabama to meet with local officials and explore solutions to the blocked railroad crossings impacting communities in the 7th Congressional District. In the Harris Homes community, Sewell hosted a roundtable discussion to give federal partners an opportunity to hear directly from local leaders about the needs of the community. Following the roundtable, Bose toured Harris Homes and the nearby rail yard for a firsthand look at the impact of blocked railroad crossings on residents.

“I extend my sincere thanks to Administrator Bose for answering our calls and visiting our community to see the unacceptable train blockages that continue to impact our residents,” said Rep. Sewell. “Together with local leaders, we had a robust and productive conversation to identify and work toward solutions in the short and long term. While there is more to be done, I have renewed optimism that cooperation at the local and federal levels can deliver relief to our communities.”

“Blocked railroad crossings is an issue FRA is paying close attention to, and we look forward to continued coordination with the Congresswoman and local officials to identify solutions that improve the quality of life for affected residents,” said Administrator Bose. “As we discussed, we encourage individuals to report incidents of blocked crossings through our online portal and communities to pursue federal funding opportunities to minimize these disruptions and increase safety.”

Among other remedies, the group discussed:

The need for communities in the 7th Congressional District to apply for assistance through the Railroad Crossing Elimination Program funded at $500,000 per year by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

Improvements to the online portal used to report blocked railroad crossings

The provision of technical assistance by the Federal Railroad Administration to help large and small communities successfully apply for federal resources to mitigate train blockages

Increased engagement with state-level partners

Yesterday’s visit by Administrator Bose is the latest in an ongoing federal partnership to address blocked railroad crossings in the 7th Congressional District. In November 2021, after hearing concerns from local officials and community members, Rep. Sewell sent a letter to Administrator Bose and an additional letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg inviting them to see firsthand how blockages impact the community. In response to the letter, Administrator Bose met with Rep. Sewell in November 2021, and participated in a productive discussion with local officials in January 2022. Sewell also helped secure key provisions in President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to address train blockages.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-votes-to-extend-government-funding-fight-inflation-provide-aid-to-ukraine-and-fund-disaster-recovery,"Rep. Sewell Votes to Extend Government Funding, Fight Inflation, Provide Aid to Ukraine, and Fund Disaster Recovery",2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023. This bipartisan bill extends funding for vital federal agencies, including education, health, housing, and public safety programs, through December 16, 2022. This continued funding grows opportunity through early childhood education, invests in our schools and high-quality job training programs, provides critical nutrition assistance and affordable housing opportunities, secures our nation, and supports our veterans.

“This bipartisan legislation keeps the government open and extends funding for critical programs like the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program,” said Rep. Sewell. “I will continue to fight to lower the cost of living, and support working Alabama families living paycheck-to-paycheck. I am also committed to standing with Ukraine as they continue to fight for democracy and push back against Putin’s war of aggression.”

Divisions A and B of the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023:

Extend funding for vital federal agencies, including education, health, housing, and public safety programs, through December 16. This continued funding grows opportunity through early childhood education, invests in our schools and high-quality job training programs, provides critical nutrition assistance and affordable housing opportunities, secures our nation, and supports our veterans.

Invest an additional $1 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help address pressure on low-income households’ pocketbooks due to inflation; $2.5 billion to help New Mexico communities recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, the largest wildfire in the state’s history; $2 billion for the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program to aid the long-term housing, infrastructure and economic recovery needs of communities impacted by disasters in 2021 and 2022; and, $20 million for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements previously authorized for Jackson, Mississippi. This funding will help families and small businesses get back on their feet and rebuild from natural disasters while repairing damage to critical infrastructure.

Include language that allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to obligate up to the full year amount available under the continuing resolution for the Disaster Relief Fund if needed to respond to declared disasters such as Hurricane Ian in Florida, Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and severe storm, flooding, and landslides in Alaska.

Provide $12.35 billion in assistance related to Ukraine, including training, equipment, weapons, logistics support, and direct financial support for the government of Ukraine.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-announces-millions-in-workforce-development-funding-for-birmingham-bessemer,"Rep. Sewell Announces Millions in Workforce Development Funding for Birmingham, Bessemer",2022-09-26,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL – Today, during press conferences in Birmingham and Bessemer, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced millions in grant funding from the United States Department of Labor (DOL) for job training and educational opportunities for at-risk youth. The Bessemer Housing Authority and Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD) will each receive 1.5 million from the DOL’s YouthBuild program to support the development of apprenticeship and other career pathway models that prepare at-risk youth for jobs in construction and other in-demand industries, especially clean energy. The awards are part of a $90 million investment by the Biden-Harris Administration to grow America’s clean energy workforce with education and training for young adults.

“This announcement is truly a win-win for our community,” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “By connecting at-risk youth with job training and education, this funding will provide our most vulnerable young adults with the resources they need to succeed, all while growing our green energy workforce. Once again, I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for making transformational investments in our community!”

“We are delighted to be awarded the Department of Labor YouthBuild Grant to help provide the youth of Bessemer, Alabama with additional resources, furthering their education and preparing them to become productive citizens in our community,” said Courtney Coleman, Executive Director of the Bessemer Housing Authority.“We believe these funds along with our community partners will work together to ‘Build Better Lives’ and ‘Deliver Hope’, which is the mission here at the Bessemer Housing Authority.”

“This is a monumental win for our agency,” said HABD Board Chairman Dr. Anthony Hood. “This award allows us to equip our most promising youth with the tools needed to thrive in an ever-competitive workforce. The demand for skilled trades and apprenticeships has never been stronger, and this grant allows us to place our young people on a direct path to the careers of the future.”

“Often, when a child drops out of school, society takes it as a sign that they have given up hope that life can get any better for them. This grant allows us to seek out those youth and give that hope back to them,” said HABD President and CEO Dontrelle Young Foster.“With this award, HABD can prepare residents for quality jobs and promote the attainment of skills necessary for success in this knowledge-based economy. This is a win not only for the clients we serve at HABD but also for the entire City of Birmingham.”

Following its Nov. 23, 2021 announcement of available funding, DOL awarded 68 grants—ranging from $700,000 to $1.5 million—to organizations in 28 states and Puerto Rico to deliver job training and employment services. Participants will engage in classroom learning that will prepare them for work-based learning opportunities building and rehabilitating affordable housing for low-income or homeless families in their communities.

Participants will split their time between workplace training and the classroom, where they will earn a high school diploma or equivalent degree to prepare for postsecondary opportunities.

Administered by the department's Employment and Training Administration, the latest YouthBuild grants complement the Biden-Harris administration's workforce priorities to advance equitable career pathway opportunities, quality jobs and climate sustainability by supporting programs that provide construction skills focused on green building techniques, including understanding sustainable building materials, solar panel installation, weatherization processes and the use of Energy Star appliances. These announcements will also further President Biden's Justice40 Initiative that commits to delivering at least 40 percent of the benefits from federal climate and clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities.

For the first time, the YouthBuild funding opportunity announcement included criteria that awarded bonus points for applicants that demonstrated their ability to provide training in green construction techniques, training the next generation of workers for resilience and clean energy careers of the future.

YouthBuild programs also train young people for employment in healthcare, information technology, manufacturing and logistics, culinary arts, and hospitality.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-votes-for-major-public-safety-legislation,Rep. Sewell Votes for Major Public Safety Legislation,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to deliver new federal resources to break the cycle of violence and build safer communities in Alabama. This robust package of four bills—which passed the House of Representatives today—will support community-based non-violence programs, local law enforcement agencies, and especially rural police departments with new tools to reduce violent crime and keep Alabamians safe. The package also includes critical investments in mental health and provisions to bolster police training and accountability.

“Making our communities safer for our children and families has always been a top priority of mine in Congress, and that’s exactly what this legislation would do,” said Rep. Sewell. “Together, these bills would ensure that our local community organizations, local law enforcement, and especially rural police departments have the tools they need to keep Alabamians safe. With House passage of these bills, we’re one step closer to delivering deeply needed investments to prevent crime, boost community violence prevention, strengthen police accountability, and save lives.”

The Democratic House’s public safety package consists of four bills:

Break the Cycle of Violence Act: Building on the American Rescue Plan’s life-saving investments in effective, evidence-based community violence prevention solutions – helping community organizations and local governments:

Hire violence intervention and prevention specialists

Offer intensive counseling, peer support and mediation services to survivors

Provide culturally-responsive social services for Alabamians at the highest risk for involvement in community violence

Invest to Protect Act: Funding rural Alabama police agencies through grants to retain and recruit officers, reduce the use of force and invest in strong accountability measures, including de-escalation training; improved response to substance use disorders; improved support for survivors of domestic violence; and promoting a duty of care.

VICTIM Act: Bolstering Alabama law enforcement agencies’ capacity to investigate and close cases of violent crime through new funding to:

Hire and train detectives to investigate homicides, sexual assaults and other violent crime

Ensure victim services are funded, staffed and trained to address the needs of survivors and family members

Acquire and upgrade investigative technology to better process evidence

Mental Health Justice Act: Saving lives by supporting the deployment of unarmed mental health professionals when responding to mental health crises in Alabama communities.

This legislation builds on President Biden and Congressional Democrats’ ongoing work to build safer communities in Alabama and across the country. Signed into law last year, Democrats’ American Rescue Plan delivered $350 billion to support state and local governments through the pandemic – helping Alabama communities keep officers on the job. The landmark Bipartisan Safer Communities Act—the most significant gun violence prevention legislation to be enacted in nearly three decades—is saving lives by getting deadly weapons out of dangerous hands. With Sewell's support, the Democratic House has also voted to reinstate the Assault Weapons Ban and establish an AMBER Alert-style system to warn Alabama communities during active shootings.

Congresswoman Sewell and House Democrats are leading the charge to transform the culture of American policing and save lives from racist violence. The House has twice passed the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to implement strong, unprecedented reforms: banning chokeholds, prohibiting no-knock warrants, ending qualified immunity, combating racial profiling and establishing nationwide standards to prevent and combat police misconduct. While Republicans obstruct these vital reforms, Sewell and her Democratic colleagues will continue fighting to enact this historic legislation into law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-announces-over-1-million-in-funding-from-the-department-of-transportation-for-improvements-to-the-tuscaloosa-national-airport,Rep. Sewell Announces Over $1 Million in Funding from the Department of Transportation for Improvements to the Tuscaloosa National Airport,2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Tuscaloosa, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation is awarding $1,053,163 to the City of Tuscaloosa to support the reconstruction and expansion of Tuscaloosa National Airport terminals. Funding for this grant was made available by the American Rescue Plan, which Rep. Sewell was the only member of the Alabama Congressional Delegation to support.

“As the only member of the Alabama Delegation to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan, I am thrilled to see our cities and towns benefiting from such critical investments,” said Rep. Sewell. “I applaud the Department of Transportation for its investment in our infrastructure and continued partnership across all levels of government. With this grant, we’re making important improvements to the Tuscaloosa National Airport and moving Tuscaloosa’s economy forward!”

This grant will support the reconstruction of the Tuscaloosa National Airport’s 600’ x 300’ terminal apron pavement and connecting Taxiways A2 and G, along with an adjacent apron pavement area serving the airport’s aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) facility.

Specifically, the funding will support the following:

The reconstruction of 28,000 square yards of existing pavement

The resurfacing of 2,700 square yards

Associated pavement edge lighting and pavement markings, including approximately

4,080 cubic yards of cement concrete pavement (CCP) material

Nearly 8,500 tons of asphalt mix pavement (AMP) materials

Approximately 600 tons of cement to be utilized for subgrade and base stabilization.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/reps-sewell-and-aderholt-announce-alabamians-captured-in-ukraine-have-been-freed,Reps. Sewell and Aderholt Announce Alabamians Captured in Ukraine Have Been Freed,2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Robert Aderholt (AL-04) announced that the two Alabamians captured in Ukraine, Alexander Drueke and Andy Huynh, have been freed, according to their families.

“Today, I was informed that Alex Drueke and Andy Huynh have been freed from captivity and will soon return to the United States!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “Words cannot express my joy and relief at this wonderful news. I have been deeply inspired by the strength and resilience of Bunny Drueke and Dianna Shaw as we work to bring these two veterans home. We are all so grateful that Alex and Andy will soon be back on American soil and reunited with their families.”

In June, Ms. Lois “Bunny” Drueke reached out to Rep. Sewell’s office after losing contact with her son Alex Drueke, a Tuscaloosa Army Veteran who volunteered to assist the Ukrainian army in their war against Russia. Since then, Sewell has been working with the Alabama Congressional Delegation and the U.S. Department of State to determine Drueke’s whereabouts and ensure his safe return. Sewell’s office has remained in close contact with Drueke’s family.

Rep. Sewell spoke with Alex Drueke’s family today following the news of his release. Ms. Lois “Bunny” Drueke, his mother, and Ms. Dianna Shaw, his aunt, released the following joint statement:

""We are thrilled to announce that Alex and Andy are free. They are safely in the custody of the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia and after medical checks and debriefing they will return to the States. We deeply appreciate everyone's prayers and especially the cooperation and support of Rep. Sewell and the U.S. Department of State.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/reps-sewell-lahood-and-kustoff-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-break-down-barriers-to-mental-health-services,"Reps. Sewell, LaHood, and Kustoff Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Break Down Barriers to Mental Health Services",2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Darin LaHood (IL-18), and David Kustoff (TN-08), introduced bipartisan legislation to break down barriers to mental health services and substance use disorder crisis services. H.R. 8892, the Access to Mental Health Services Act, will heighten awareness of such services and identify gaps in coverage under private insurance. The legislation will help to ensure that Americans can get the help they need, especially in times of crisis.

“Alabamians suffering from mental health and substance use disorders deserve our compassion and support,” said Rep. Sewell. “We in Congress must ensure that Americans have access to the treatment and services they need to recover. That’s why as we celebrate National Recovery Month, I’m proud to join with my colleagues across the aisle to introduce the Access to Mental Health Services Act. This critical legislation would help break down barriers to mental health services for those who need them most and marks a critical step toward addressing our nation's mental health crisis.”

“Mental and behavioral health services are critical components of our health care system, and Congress can do more to ensure patients better understand their access to these services, especially in rural communities like those in the 18th District of Illinois,” said Rep. Darin LaHood. “This bipartisan bill will help mental and behavioral health care providers to better treat patients and increase access to mental health care services, particularly in situations of mental health crisis care, while also protecting patients from surprise medical billing. On the Ways and Means Committee, I will continue to be an advocate for our mental and behavioral health care providers and patients in central and west-central Illinois.”

“It is crucial that Americans have access to mental health and substance use disorder crisis services,” said Rep. David Kustoff. “I am pleased to join Representatives LaHood and Sewell in introducing the Access to Mental Health Services Act of 2022, a bipartisan bill to help break down barriers to mental health services and support patients and healthcare providers across the country. This legislation will heighten the awareness and availability of these essential services for individuals who are struggling with their own mental health. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill.”

Coverage for mental health crisis services under private insurance varies, and limited availability of in-network providers can restrict access for patients. While many do have access to such services, they may not know where to access them or may worry about the perceived stigma of obtaining such mental health crisis services. The landmark No Surprises Act (NSA) provides new federal consumer protections against surprise medical bills for all emergency services and certain non-emergency services. However, while the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and the Treasury have clarified that certain mental health crisis care settings fall under the NSA’s definition of emergency services and guarantee such consumer protections, others do not.

Accordingly, H.R. 8892 seeks to expand outreach efforts and identify private insurance barriers to accessing mental health crisis services:

Heightening awareness of such services: This bill requires the Departments to conduct an outreach campaign regarding the availability of mental health crisis services under private insurance. In addition, the outreach campaign would promote the potential benefits of accessing such services and seek to address any perceived stigma in obtaining such services.

Identifying potential coverage gaps: This bill requires the Departments to submit a report to Congress concerning private insurance coverage for mental health crisis services, any potential barriers to accessing such services, and potential issues related to unexpected surprise medical bills.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-announces-2-7-million-in-american-rescue-plan-funding-for-stillman-college-to-boost-cybersecurity-and-it-workforce-development-efforts,Rep. Sewell Announces $2.7 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding for Stillman College to Boost Cybersecurity and IT Workforce Development Efforts,2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Tuscaloosa, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.7 million grant to Stillman College in Tuscaloosa to support development of a cybersecurity and information technology training center. The center will work to meet local employers’ existing and future workforce needs and is expected to create 100 jobs, retain 100 jobs, and generate $1 million in private investment. This EDA grant will be matched with $100,000 in state funds. Funding for this grant was made available by the American Rescue Plan, which Rep. Sewell was the only member of the Alabama Congressional Delegation to support.

“As the only member of the Alabama Delegation to support the American Rescue Plan, I am so proud that the Economic Development Administration is awarding this funding to the historic Stillman College in Tuscaloosa,” said Rep. Sewell. “This transformative grant will help create 100 jobs in West Alabama, equip our students with critical skills, and position our community for future economic growth. I thank President Biden and Secretary Raimondo for supporting community-led economic development and fighting to ensure that our next generation of students can pursue careers in the 21st century economy.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the West Alabama Regional Commission (WARC). EDA funds WARC to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.

This project is funded under EDA’s American Rescue Plan Economic Adjustment Assistance Program, which makes $500 million in Economic Adjustment Assistance grants available to American communities. The Economic Adjustment Assistance program is EDA’s most flexible program, and grants made under this program will help hundreds of communities across the nation plan, build, innovate, and put people back to work through construction or non-construction projects designed to meet local needs. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.

""Stillman’s cybersecurity and information technology training center will help us recruit and retain students by offering education and opportunities to advance to in-demand fields,” said Stillman College President Cynthia Warrick. “Additionally, we recognize that the small liberal arts college has to be a value to our local community and the State of Alabama, so Stillman will provide the same access and opportunities to citizens in West Alabama to train and receive certificates in IT and cloud computing, among other areas.""

“President Biden is committed to harnessing the full power of the federal government to ensure our nation not only recovers from this pandemic but builds a better America for the future,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment will boost workforce development efforts at Stillman College, providing students with the skills they need to compete for good-paying jobs in a growing and expanding career field.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-commemorates-the-59th-anniversary-of-the-bombing-of-the-16th-street-baptist-church-and-honors-the-four-little-girls-on-the-house-floor,Rep. Sewell Commemorates the 59th Anniversary of the Bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church and Honors the Four Little Girls on the House Floor,2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the Floor of the House of Representatives to commemorate the anniversary of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. Fifty-nine years ago tomorrow, on September 15, 1963, white supremacists detonated nineteen sticks of dynamite under the church, killing four little girls: Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley.

A video recording of Rep. Sewell’s remarks can be accessed and downloaded here. Her remarks are transcribed below:

Sewell: Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the lives and legacies of four precious Little Girls—Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley—who died in the sacred walls of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama fifty-nine years ago.

On September 15, 1963, as the Four Little Girls were getting dressed in the bathroom of the church basement, preparing to sing in the choir, nineteen sticks of dynamite placed under the church detonated. They totally exploded, causing the interior walls to actually fall in.

The crowd of about 200 people who gathered for the 11:00 a.m. service, they evacuated the church. But the church was filled with smoke, and underneath the debris laid Four Little Girls.

Along with the little girls who lost their lives, dozens of others were injured that day including Sarah Collins Rudolph, the younger sister of Addie Mae Collins, who was in the basement with her sister and the other girls preparing for church that day.

Due to the violently racist nature of the attack, thousands of African Americans protested across the State of Alabama, and in response, George Wallace called the police to break up the demonstrations. The violent clashes between the protesters and police resulted in massive arrests and the tragic loss of two more lives, two little boys that died that day, Johnny Robinson and Virgil Ware. The two boys, one sixteen and the other thirteen, were killed within hours of the church bombing.

Following the attack, several people, many of whom were members of the KKK, were arrested. But none of them, none of them, were actually prosecuted until thirty-four years later.

Described by Dr. Martin Luther King as one of the most vicious, tragic crimes ever perpetrated against humanity, this racially motivated act of terrorism focused America’s eyes on Birmingham, Alabama, bringing into sharp clarity the injustices that sparked the Civil Rights Movement.

Although we will never replace the lives lost or injuries suffered, the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 proved that their sacrifices were not in vain.

Today, as we reflect on our painful history, we are reminded that every gain in the battle for Civil Rights has come at a high cost, paid by those who sacrificed everything for a vision and a dream bigger than themselves.

As a direct beneficiary of the legacy of the Four Little Girls, I was honored that the very first bill that I passed in this body posthumously bestowed upon them the Congressional Gold Medal to ensure that this nation will never forget their sacrifice.

I not only question where I would be today without the influence of the Four Little Girls but more importantly I question where America would be today. The premature and senseless deaths of these girls awakened the slumbering consciousness of America and galvanized the Civil Rights Movement.

It was their memory that carried John Lewis and those brave Foot Soldiers, unarmed and unafraid, across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in my hometown of Selma, Alabama.

It was their sacrifice which burned in the mind of President Lyndon Johnson as he signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

And it was their sacrifice that inspired a generation of freedom fighters to move this nation closer to its highest ideals of equality and justice for all.

Madam Speaker, as we commemorate the 59th year since the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, we as Americans are called upon to reflect on the legacy of the Four Little Girls and to know them by name. These Four Little Girls and the loss of their life has changed America forever.

The legacy of the Four Little Girls paved the way for a more equitable and more just future. For that, we owe it to them to pick up the baton and carry it forward. I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 59th anniversary of the lives of Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley.

May we always remember their names: Addie Mae, Denise, Carole, and Cynthia.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/9/rep-sewell-announces-3-million-for-the-north-birmingham-community-development-rehabilitation-project,Rep. Sewell Announces $3 Million for the North Birmingham Community Development Rehabilitation Project,2022-09-09,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“This is a great day for the people of North Birmingham,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “North Birmingham has suffered from environmental injustice for over a century. These resources will help in righting some of the wrongs from decades of neglect. As a child of North Birmingham, I am particularly grateful. I lived here, went to school here and know that justice is long overdue. Today says that we have not been forgotten. Thank you Congresswoman Terri Sewell for always supporting the people of Birmingham.”

Funding to redevelop the former North Birmingham Elementary School is part of the over $8 million that Sewell secured in the FY2022 government funding package for community projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. These projects respond directly to some of the most pressing needs in Alabama’s communities and will help reverse decades of disinvestment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/rep-sewell-announces-over-2-3-million-in-health-navigator-grant-funding-to-aids-alabama,Rep. Sewell Announces Over $2.3 Million in Health Navigator Grant Funding to AIDS Alabama,2022-08-29,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL - Today U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), awarded AIDS Alabama a $2,342,245 grant for its Navigator funding. This grant is a part of the $98.9 million grant funding returning to Navigator organizations ahead of the 2023 Open Enrollment Period to provide additional assistance to Alabamians shopping for and enrolling in plans through the Marketplace, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Enroll Alabama, AIDS Alabama’s health care navigator program, has been federally funded since the program’s inception in 2013.

“This is great news! Enroll Alabama has been a beacon of hope for countless Alabamians, serving as a critical resource in our work to get people in every corner of the state enrolled in health coverage. Since the Navigator program was created with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in 2013, I have heard directly from countless Alabamians who enrolled in health coverage for the first time in their lives thanks to an Enroll Alabama Navigator who helped them sign up,” said Rep. Sewell. “Thanks to this investment, Enroll Alabama will be able to retain staff and hire more navigators to help Alabamians find affordable, comprehensive health coverage.”

“AIDS Alabama and the Enroll Alabama program are thrilled to receive these funds. With this award, we will be staffed with 22 Navigators throughout the state of Alabama and our Navigators are ready to assist consumers with their healthcare enrollment needs in both English and Spanish,” said AIDS Alabama Director of Policy and Advocacy Vanessa Tate Finney, MPH, CPH. “Navigators also attend community events such as health and resource fairs to assist consumers with healthcare.gov, Medicaid, and AllKids enrollment. Not sure if you’re eligible for health insurance assistance? Give us a call and we’re happy to help!”

“This is a historic investment to connect people to high-quality, affordable health care,” said Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. “Last year, our investments helped result in the lowest uninsured rate in our nation’s history. This year, we’re doubling down on our efforts to ensure people get the insurance they need. Navigators critically help us reach people where they are, educating them on their health insurance options that can be lifesaving.”

“Reaching people where they are is a key part of our strategy to connect people to health coverage. Navigators were incredibly effective during the last Open Enrollment period when a historic number of people signed up and now we are doubling down on investing in community Navigators who can help people find the coverage they need,” said Administrator for Medicare and Medicaid Services Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “For those changing coverage or who struggle to afford health insurance, there are a variety of options to help. The Health Insurance Marketplace and state-based Marketplaces can offer no-cost or low-cost coverage to millions of people.”

Background

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is investing $98.9 million in grant funding to 59 returning Navigator organizations for the 2023 Open Enrollment Period to help consumers navigate enrollment through the Marketplace, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and make health coverage more equitable and accessible to everyone. These awards will enable Navigator organizations to retain staff and add to the more than 1,500 existing Navigators who were trained to help consumers find affordable, comprehensive health coverage in nearly every HealthCare.govstate and county during the 2022 open enrollment period. This follows a historic Open Enrollment Period in 2022 and is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to enroll more people in health care coverage.

This announcement marks the single largest Navigator funding award provided to date and serves as a continuation of historic levels of funding. The Biden-Harris Administration previously awarded $80 million to the program, quadrupling the number of Navigators for the 2022 Open Enrollment Period. More than 1,500 certified Navigators held more than 1,800 outreach and education events at accessible areas—such as local libraries, vaccination clinics, food drives, county fairs, and job fairs. This historic investment in outreach and enrollment efforts helped contribute to the record-breaking 14.5 million people who signed up for 2022 health care coverage through the Marketplaces, including nearly 6 million people who newly gained coverage.

For additional information on the grant click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/rep-sewell-statement-president-biden-s-actions-provide-student-loan,Rep. Sewell Statement on President Biden’s Actions to Provide Student Loan Relief for Working and Middle Class Families,2022-08-24,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding President Joe Biden’s announcement to provide student loan relief to middle and working class families who need it most:

“A good education should be a ticket to the middle class, but across the nation, the soaring cost of college has made it near impossible for many Alabamians to pursue the American dream.

“Today’s announcement is welcome news for so many Alabamians who are being crushed by student loan debt. This targeted economic relief will provide peace of mind for those who need it most. I’m grateful to have a President who follows through on his promises and looks out for the needs of our students and working families.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/rep-sewell-announces-21-million-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-clean,Rep. Sewell Announces $21+ Million from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for Clean Transit Buses in Jefferson County and University of Alabama,2022-08-16,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced over $21 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for clean transit buses in Alabama. $13,654,636 will be awarded to the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority and $7,890,065 will be awarded to the University of Alabama. This funding is part of a $1.66 billion investment by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) in 150 bus fleets and facilities across the nation to reduce pollution and meet President Biden’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. This year's funding alone will nearly double the number of no-emission transit buses on America's roadways. In Alabama, this funding will improve safety and reliability of transit services for residents of the Birmingham and Tuscaloosa regions while reducing pollution and advancing environmental justice.

The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) will receive $13,654,636 to build a new maintenance facility and buy compressed natural gas, hydrogen fuel-cell and battery electric buses and charging equipment. This project and the new vehicles will improve the safety and reliability of transit service for residents in Jefferson County.

The University of Alabama will receive $7,890,065 to replace diesel buses with new electric buses, buy charging equipment, and train maintenance workers to support the new electric bus fleet. The project will ensure continued service reliability, maintain a state of good repair, improve air quality, and advance environmental justice in the Tuscaloosa community.

“It’s hard to overstate the transformational impact that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is having here in Alabama,” said Rep. Sewell. “Once again, we’re seeing much-needed funding coming to our communities to upgrade our infrastructure, connect our communities, and clean up our environment. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a true testament to what we can achieve when we put people over politics, and I was proud to be the only Member of Congress from Alabama to support it.”

“With this announcement, we’re bringing millions of dollars to Jefferson County for brand new vehicles and a new maintenance facility to keep them running smoothly,” continued Sewell. “That means safer and more reliable bus services for the residents of the Birmingham region. For our University of Alabama campus community, this announcement means better, greener buses and a cleaner, healthier environment.”

These two projects were among 150 to be selected by the FTA out of a pool of more than 530 eligible proposals. The bus grant awards—made under FTA's Buses and Bus Facilitiesand Low- and No-Emission Vehicle programs—are FTA's first competitive grant selections under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The programs support the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to expand our nation's transportation infrastructure, create and maintain good-paying jobs, and fight climate change.

“BJCTA has a lot to look forward to in the coming years,” said BJCTA Executive Director and CEO Charlotte Shaw. “We are excited to be a part of positive change and growth. BJCTA’s Transit on the Grow mission is not only to connect people to places but also to provide life quality in our communities across the region.”

“The transfer to electric Crimson Ride buses will reduce emissions and have an immediate impact on our area, thanks in great part to Rep. Terri Sewell and Sen. Richard Shelby’s strong support,"" said University of Alabama President Stuart Bell. ""This grant will improve air quality and promote well-being on our campus and will build a strong workforce to lead electric vehicle innovation consistent with our vision for the Alabama Mobility and Power Center.”

“With today's awards, we're helping communities across America—in cities, suburbs, and rural areas alike—purchase more than 1,800 new buses, and most of them are zero-emission,"" said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. ""Funded through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this announcement means more good jobs for people across the country, cleaner air in our communities, and more affordable and reliable options to help people get to where they need to go.""

""When a transit door opens, whether it is a bus, train, or ferry, it is a great equalizer for everyone in our nation,"" said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez. ""With this tremendous amount of funding, the President's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law gives more Americans access to the opportunities that transit creates, more often, in more places. These investments also help us meet our goals of cutting transportation emissions, creating good-paying American manufacturing jobs, and helping America's transit workers prepare for new vehicle technology.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/rep-sewell-announces-108-million-grant-city-birmingham-bolster-health,Rep. Sewell Announces $10.8 Million Grant for the City of Birmingham to Bolster Health Care Workforce,2022-08-15,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL – U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the City of Birmingham was awarded a $10.8 million grant from the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to establish the Birmingham Region Health Partnership, a health care workforce training program. Funding comes from the Good Jobs Challenge, an EDA initiative from the American Rescue Plan that invests in high-quality, locally led workforce systems across the nation. This program will build a pipeline of skilled health care and digital health care workers. Through partnership with local health care employers, it will provide access to high-quality healthcare jobs to those communities traditionally underserved, including women and people of color.

“As the only member of the Alabama congressional delegation to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan, I’m thrilled to see the transformational impact this law is having on our state,” said Rep. Sewell. “This grant will help the Birmingham community continue to build its health care workforce and will be instrumental in our fight to ensure every Alabamian can reach their God-given potential.”

“The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to creating career opportunities enabling more Americans to secure quality, in-demand jobs,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment will help provide women in the Birmingham region with the services and support they need to complete training and be placed into quality healthcare careers.”

“The Good Jobs Challenge is bringing together diverse partners and local leaders to advance workforce training programs across the country,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “With support from the Women’s Foundation of Alabama, this program will provide marginalized communities with access to training providers and employers, leading to quality, good-paying jobs.”

This grant is funded through the American Rescue Plan Good Jobs Challenge. The program is awarding grants to 32 worker-centered, industry-led workforce training partnerships across the country. The $500 million program is expanding opportunities for more Americans to access and secure good-paying jobs by investing in innovative approaches to advance worker-centered, industry-led workforce training partnerships. The Good Jobs Challenge is part of a suite of American Rescue Plan programs developed by EDA to equitably distribute its $3 billion allocation to assist communities nationwide in their efforts to build a better America by accelerating economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and building local economies that will be more resilient to future economic shocks.

The City of Birmingham and 31 other awardees were selected from a competitive pool of 509 applicants. By partnering with industry and solving for their local talent needs, this program is advancing many growing industries essential to U.S. supply chains, global competitiveness, and regional development, with employers making specific commitments to hire and engage with these worker-centered, industry-led programs. Through a holistic, integrated partnership approach, these projects will provide tangible opportunities and security for American workers, focusing on serving and supporting a broad range of underserved communities and connecting workers with the training, skills, and support services needed to successfully secure a good job.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/rep-sewell-votes-send-historic-inflation-reduction-act-president-biden-s,Rep. Sewell Votes to Send Historic Inflation Reduction Act to President Biden’s Desk,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, a historic legislative package that will tackle inflation, drive down health care and energy costs, cut the deficit, and make the largest investment to combat climate change in United States history. The bill is fully paid for by making the wealthiest corporations begin to pay their fair share. Included in the bill is Rep. Sewell’s climate justice legislation to reduce pollution and promote carbon capture technology. The Inflation Reduction Act passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 220-207 with every Democrat voting in favor of this significant legislation. Having passed the Senate last Sunday, the bill now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“With passage of the historic Inflation Reduction Act, Congressional Democrats have once again delivered a major victory for the American people, the State of Alabama, and our planet!” said Rep. Sewell. “This bill caps drug costs for Alabama seniors and extends critical health care subsidies to drive down costs for families, all without raising taxes on anyone making under $400,000 per year. Instead, this bill is fully paid for by making the wealthiest corporations pay their fair share.”

“The Inflation Reduction Act also marks a major turning point in our fight to advance environmental justice, reduce pollution, and combat climate change,” continued Sewell. “I was proud to see that my bill, the Carbon Capture and Sequestration Expansion Act, was included in the climate title of this bill. While my colleagues on the other side spread falsehoods to protect billion-dollar corporations and special interests, I’m proud that my Democratic colleagues and I once again came together to deliver legislation that puts people over politics. I know this legislation will make a world of difference for so many Alabama families.”

The Inflation Reduction Act takes bold action to lower health care costs and slash prescription drug costs for Alabamians. By extending the Affordable Care Act enhanced subsidies that are set to expire in January 2023 for three more years, the Inflation Reduction Act locks in lower health care premiums for 209,000 Alabamians who will save an average of $800 annually per person. It also empowers Medicare to negotiate lower prices for about 100 high cost, single-source drugs over the next decade. For Medicare beneficiaries, the bill caps out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 annually and caps the cost of insulin at $35 per month. Under this bill, if drug companies raise prices in Medicare faster than the rate of inflation, they are required to pay rebates back to Medicare for the difference, beginning in October 2022.

The Inflation Reduction Act is the largest investment to fight climate change, clean up pollution, and advance environmental justice in U.S. history. The bill’s $370 billion in climate resiliency investments would reduce U.S. carbon emissions by roughly 40 percent by 2030, and its $60 billion in environmental justice priorities will drive investments into disadvantaged communities. Notably, thanks to a provision cosponsored by Rep. Sewell, the bill reinstates the Superfund tax on crude oil and petroleum products to ensure that Superfund sites like the one in North Birmingham have the resources needed for environmental cleanup. The bill also includes Sewell’s climate justice legislation, the Carbon Capture and Sequestration Expansion Act, to reduce pollution and promote carbon capture technology.

Contrary to Republican falsehoods, the Inflation Reduction Act contains no new taxes on families making $400,000 or less and no new taxes on small businesses. The bill is fully paid for by strengthening IRS enforcement against wealthy tax cheats, closing tax loopholes exploited by the wealthiest few, and implementing a 15% corporate minimum tax—which applies only to the 150 corporations earning over $1 billion in profits. Thanks to these provisions, the Inflation Reduction Act is expected to reduce the deficit by over $300 billion over the next decade.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/reps-sewell-smith-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-protect-access-long,"Reps. Sewell, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Access to Long Term Care Hospitals",2022-08-08,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Jason Smith (MO-08) introduced H.R. 8580, the Long Term Care Hospital (LTCH) Access and Stability Act. This bipartisan legislation would extend pandemic-era Medicare payment policies for LTCHs for one year after the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE). Such an extension would prevent steep and sudden Medicare payment cuts to LTCHs and allow these specialized hospitals time to transition back to pre-pandemic policies. By supporting LTCHs, the LTCH Access and Stability Act would help ensure that long-term acute care services remain available for communities that need them.

“Long Term Care Hospitals have played such a critical role in treating patients with COVID-19 and those with chronic conditions, but without action, these hospitals will soon face devastating payment cuts that threaten their ability to provide lifesaving care,” said Rep. Sewell. “I thank my colleague, Congressman Jason Smith, for joining me in introducing the LTCH Access and Stability Act which would give these facilities time to transition back to pre-pandemic payment policies. We must ensure that these hospitals can continue to operate for those who rely on them.”

“Long Term Care Hospitals play a unique and vital role in our nation’s health care system—and are particularly critical in rural areas,” said Rep. Smith. “COVID-19 strained the resources of facilities that treated these patients, and as we adjust back to pre-pandemic policies, we need to ensure adequate transition time for facilities like LTCHs, which were the tip of the spear in rural America. This legislation will ensure LTCHs have additional time to adjust their resources, keep their doors open, and—most importantly—continue providing life-changing care to patients affected by serious long-term medical illnesses in Missouri and across the nation.”

LTCHs are designed to care for severely ill patients who, though clinically stable, still require complex medical treatment such as mechanical ventilation. This makes them ideal treatment facilities for patients with COVID-19. To preserve access to long-term care hospitals and increase patient capacity during the pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act created a more flexible Medicare payment policy for LTCHs by waiving the previous “site neutral” policy for the duration of the PHE. This waiver allowed for LTCHs to serve patients they previously did not—including those suffering from COVID-19—and helped free beds in short-term acute-care hospitals.

As the COVID emergency winds down, this flexibility for patient capacity will expire, forcing devastating cuts to LTCHs across the country. At the same time, these hospitals face the same challenges as other hospitals, including workforce shortages, supply chain constraints, and rising costs. The LTCH Access and Stability Act would extend the current Medicare payment policy for LTCHs for one year after the end of the PHE, creating a one-year transition period back to pre-pandemic policies and ensuring that patients can continue to access the lifesaving care these hospitals provide.

“The Coalition of Long-Term Acute-Care Hospitals thanks Congresswoman Sewell and Congressman Smith for introducing the LTCH Access and Stability Act,” said Anthony F. Misitano Chair of the Coalition of LTACHs and Founder, Chairman, & CEO of PAM Health. “This bill acknowledges the vital role LTACHs have played in the communities they serve during the most dangerous days of the COVID-19 pandemic and provides time for those hospitals to transition out of crisis mode and re-establish firm footing so they can continue to provide the long-term acute-level care for the patients who need it.”

“Members of the National Association of Long Term Hospitals (NALTH) have been proud to serve as front-line responders during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Ed Prettyman, President of the National Association of Long Term Hospitals. “We applaud Congresswoman Sewell and Congressman Smith for their leadership and the introduction of the LTCH Access and Stability Act. Ensuring long term care hospitals do not face an abrupt and steep payment cut is crucial to preserving access to vital care in communities across the country. We thank Congresswoman Sewell and Congressman Smith for recognizing the important role long term care hospitals play in caring for our nation’s most critically ill patients.”

The LTCH Access and Stability Act is also supported by the following organizations:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/8/rep-sewell-welcomes-epa-administrator-regan-usda-secretary-vilsack-and,"Rep. Sewell Welcomes EPA Administrator Regan, USDA Secretary Vilsack, and WH Infrastructure Coordinator Landrieu to Lowndes County to Announce Rural Wastewater Infrastructure Initiative",2022-08-02,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Lowndes County, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) welcomed U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael S. Regan, and White House Infrastructure Coordinator Mitch Landrieu to Lowndes County, Alabama to announce a new wastewater infrastructure initiative under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to address broken and failing wastewater systems in rural Alabama. Rep. Sewell hosted a roundtable at the White Hall Town Hall to give federal officials an opportunity to hear directly from local leaders about the unique needs of each community.

“Access to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right, but for too many of my constituents, generations of disinvestment have led to broken and failing wastewater systems that put the health of our communities at risk,” said Rep. Sewell. “Since coming to Congress, I have made addressing our wastewater crisis a top priority, working to secure funding and direct resources to areas in need of help. Now, thanks to the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration and transformative investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, more help is on the way. This joint initiative between the EPA and USDA will be instrumental in our fight to improve wastewater infrastructure for our most underserved communities.”

The Closing America’s Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative will allow EPA and USDA—in close collaboration with local communities, state and Tribal partners, and on-the-ground technical assistance providers—to leverage technical and financial expertise to make progress on addressing the wastewater infrastructure needs of some of America’s most underserved communities. Each community or Tribe will receive direct support to develop wastewater assessments with technical engineering support, design wastewater community solution plans, identify and pursue funding opportunities, and build long term capacity. States, Tribes, and water agencies have committed to working with the EPA and USDA to support these communities.

Since coming to Congress, Rep. Sewell has made it a top priority to improve wastewater infrastructure in rural Alabama. She has authored several successful bills to address wastewater issues including the Rural Septic Tank Access Act, which passed in the 2018 Farm Bill, and the Decentralized Wastewater Grant Act, which was included in President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Both of these laws established grant programs under the USDA and EPA respectively to help low- and moderate-income households connect their homes to existing wastewater infrastructure or install or upgrade individually owned septic tanks. She has secured millions in funding through the annual appropriations process to address Alabama’s wastewater infrastructure including, most recently, $700,000 to install septic tanks in Lowndes County.

“The America that we all believe in is a land of opportunity. But, for historically marginalized communities from Alabama to Alaska, that opportunity is stolen when basic sanitation doesn’t work—exposing adults and children to backyard sewage and disease,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “By partnering with USDA, states, and leveraging funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is working to restore dignity and opportunity to rural communities here in Lowndes County and across the country.”

“Under the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA believes hardworking people in America’s small towns and rural communities should have the infrastructure they need to be healthy and to provide for their families. We recognize that there are still people who have been going without the basics,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Access to modern, reliable wastewater infrastructure is a necessity, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to doing everything we can to ensure every family and every child in America has access to these vital services. By combining USDA and EPA resources and taking advantage of the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we can restore to these communities a sense of economic vitality and social dignity that the people living there deserve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-reinstate-assault-weapons-ban,Rep. Sewell Votes to Reinstate Assault Weapons Ban,2022-07-29,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for legislation to keep weapons of war off the streets and protect Alabama communities from the scourge of gun violence. The Assault Weapons Ban Act of 2022 would reinstate the assault weapons ban, prohibiting the sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. The bill passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 217-213.

“I am a strong believer in the right of responsible gun owners to keep and bear arms,” said Rep. Sewell. “I also believe that weapons of war have no place on our streets or in our schools. It is no coincidence that AR-15-style firearms have become the weapons of choice among mass shooters. Assault weapons like these are designed to slaughter as many people as possible in the shortest amount of time. I applaud the House for once again taking action to address our nation’s gun violence epidemic and save lives. I urge our Senators to follow suit.”

From 1994 to 2004, while American families were protected by the assault weapons ban, there were 40 percent fewer gun crimes involving assault weapons. Since the expiration of the ban in 2004, gun violence has been steadily on the rise. In 2019 alone, nearly 14,000 United Americans were killed with a firearm, with nearly 300 mass shootings taking place over the last decade. Taking action to reduce these numbers will not only protect our communities but support our law enforcement, who have been overwhelmed by the pervasiveness of gun crime and must face weapons designed for warfare while serving in our communities.

Similar to the 1994 ban, this legislation will prohibit the sale, manufacture, transfer or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Additionally, it will require that semiautomatic assault weapons be stored securely and properly, a measure that will help keep the most dangerous weapons out of the hands of those not equipped to handle weapons.

This bill is the latest example of House Democrats’ ongoing efforts to increase public safety. Earlier this year, the Congress passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the country’s first piece of major gun violence prevention legislation in nearly three decades. Additionally, the House passed the Active Shooter Alert Act, legislation that establishes a program similar to the AMBER Alert system, allowing law enforcement to effectively and efficiently alert the public during a shooting. Similarly, the Protecting Our Kids Act, legislation that would keep weapons of war out of the hands of teenagers and crack down on ghost guns, passed the House with overwhelming Democratic support earlier this year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/reps-sewell-buchanan-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-protect-access,"Reps. Sewell, Buchanan Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Access to Home Health Services",2022-07-29,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) introduced H.R. 8581, the Preserving Access to Home Health Act of 2022. This bipartisan legislation would help preserve access to home health services for seniors and Americans with disabilities by preventing proposed cuts to home health payment rates from taking effect.

“The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the importance of home health services which are a lifeline for so many Alabama seniors and people with disabilities. It is imperative that we continue to protect home health services from cuts.” said Rep. Sewell. “The Preserving Access to Home Health Act is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that would do just that. I urge my colleagues to give it their full support.”

“As we have learned from the coronavirus pandemic, home health services have proven to be invaluable for seniors in my district and across the country,” said Rep. Buchanan, lead Republican co-sponsor. “We know, when given the option, patients overwhelmingly prefer to receive care where they are most at ease—in the comfort of their own homes.”

Home health care allows over 3.5 million patients to be treated in the cost-effective setting they prefer most—their homes. Home health services are a lifeline for seniors, people with disabilities, and those with limited mobility, and have become even more essential during the COVID-19 public health emergency as we sought to keep our nation’s most vulnerable citizens safe.

Unfortunately, the delivery of home health services faces a serious threat due to a proposed policy that would make a permanent cut to home health care of 7.69 percent beginning in 2023, which totals $1.33 billion. It also proposes to “clawback” $2 billion in a temporary adjustment to home health payments for services provided to Medicare beneficiaries during the first two years of the COVID-19 public health emergency. Over a ten-year period, estimates indicate that these temporary and permanent adjustments could total $18 billion, which would decimate the Medicare home health program’s capacity to continue to care for the nation’s older Americans and people with disabilities.

The Preserving Access to Home Health Act accomplishes a simple goal: it restricts the ability of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to impose these severe reductions for three years, until 2026, to enable the home health industry to continue to work with CMS on a fairer and more equitable budget neutrality methodology that is the underpinning for CMS’ reasoning behind these proposed reductions.

This legislation has been endorsed by the National Association of Homecare and Hospice, the Partnership for Quality Home Healthcare, and the Council of State Home Care Associations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-chips-and-science-act-power-american-economic,Rep. Sewell Votes for CHIPS and Science Act to Power American Economic Leadership and Lower Costs,2022-07-28,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for historic, bipartisan legislation to strengthen Alabama families’ financial future, boost America’s research advantage and safeguard our economic and national security for generations to come. The CHIPS and Science Act will deliver a powerful investment in America’s global competitiveness—creating jobs, slashing kitchen table costs, ending dependence on foreign manufacturers, and turbocharging American innovation. The bill passed the House today by a vote of 243 to 187. Previously passed by the Senate, this legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

“The CHIPS and Science Act is a victory for Alabama and our nation!” said Rep. Sewell. “This major legislation is all about ensuring that America remains a world leader in science, technology, and innovation. By turbocharging our production of semiconductors, the CHIPS and Science Act will strengthen American manufacturing, lower costs, and bolster our independence from foreign suppliers, all while creating good-paying jobs here at home. I’m also thrilled that this bill will bring research investments to our local communities to help diversify our STEM workforce. I look forward to seeing President Biden sign it into law!”

A nationwide shortage of semiconductor chips has severely disrupted American manufacturing, slowing down production, spiking prices and increasing dependence on unfriendly foreign nations. Only 12 percent of semiconductor chips are currently manufactured domestically—a dramatic drop from 37 percent in the 1990s—while foreign competitors are investing heavily to dominate this critical national security industry. Other nations have also begun to outpace the United States’ research advantage, threatening American preeminence in technology and scientific innovation.

The bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act will reverse these dangerous trends, reasserting America’s economic independence and scientific dominance. Thanks to the strong leadership of House Democrats, this legislation:

Lowers costs for American consumers – by making more critical semiconductor components in America, helping end the shortage of chips that have driven up the price of everything from cars to consumer goods.

Creates 100,000 new good-paying jobs – creates strong Davis-Bacon jobs building hi-tech manufacturing facilities here in America.

Ends our dangerous dependence on foreign manufacturers – bringing critical semiconductor manufacturing back to America instead of overseas where it can be threatened by our adversaries.

Turbocharges American R&D – powering America’s preeminence in both basic research and next-generation technologies and ensuring that the technologies of the future are made here in America.

Diversifies and expands the innovation workforce – broadening the pool of brainpower and talent so that we are embracing the full potential from all our communities, helping to diversify our STEM workforce and advancing regional technology hubs to ensure communities across the country can help in American research and development.

This legislation also includes strong guardrails to ensure that federal semiconductor investments go straight into Alabama’s economy—not corporate pockets or unfriendly nations. The CHIPS and Science Act will:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-honors-mrs-romay-catherine-johnson-davis-house-floor,Rep. Sewell Honors Mrs. Romay Catherine Johnson Davis on the House Floor,2022-07-27,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to honor Mrs. Romay Catherine Johnson Davis who, at the age of 102, is the oldest living member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion of the United States Army. Yesterday, on the 74th anniversary of the integration of the armed services, the 6888th Battalion was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor that Congress can bestow.

A video recording of Sewell’s remarks can be accessed and downloaded here. Her remarks are transcribed below.

Rep. Sewell: I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Mrs. Romay Catherine Johnson Davis who was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for her extraordinary service to our nation as one of the women of the 6888th Postal Battalion during World War II.

At the age of 102, Mrs. Davis is the oldest living member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion of the United States Army. Throughout World War II, this dedicated group of African American women sorted mail and care packages to maintain the morale of American soldiers stationed abroad.

Helping to sort 65,000 pieces of mail every shift, Mrs. Davis and her colleagues worked tirelessly to uphold the battalion’s motto: “no mail, low morale.”

Mrs. Davis is a trailblazer for African American women everywhere, and it is befitting that her award comes on the 74th anniversary of the integration of the Armed Services.

I was proud to vote in favor of the bill to award the 6888th Postal Battalion the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor Congress can bestow.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-announces-employer-line-11th-annual-job-fair,Rep. Sewell Announces Employer Line-Up for 11th Annual Job Fair,2022-07-25,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Selma, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the line-up of employers for her 11th Annual Job Fair which will take place at the Wallace Community College Gymnasium in Selma, Alabama on Thursday, August 4th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. CDT. This year’s event will feature nearly 70 employers from 14 industries. Rep. Sewell’s largest constituent event of the year, the annual job fair connects job-seekers to employers from across Alabama and reflects her commitment to bringing opportunities directly to her constituents.

“We have a phenomenal and diverse group of employers confirmed for this year’s 11th Annual Job Fair which is nearly one week away!” said Rep. Sewell. “My job fair is all about bringing opportunities to our doorstep and empowering people with the tools and resources they need to thrive. I’m so excited to be welcoming these employers to the heart of Alabama’s Black Belt so that my constituents can benefit from the many open positions that are available today. I hope you’ll consider joining us for what is shaping up to be an exciting and successful event!”

This year’s job fair will feature nearly 70 employers from 14 industries. Confirmed employers include:

Government Agency

Alabama Department of Youth Services

Alabama Department of Commerce - Workforce Development Division

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Alabama Department of Corrections

Alabama Department of Environmental Management

Alabama Department of Human Resources

Alabama Department of Labor

Alabama Department of Revenue

Alabama Forestry Commission

City of Selma

Talladega Federal Bureau of Prison

Jefferson County Commission

Selma Career Center

State of Alabama Personnel Department

Healthcare

Advanced EMS

Cahaba Center for Mental Health

Mary Starke Harper Geriatric Psychiatry Center

Rural Health Medical Program, Inc.

Vaughan Regional Medical Center

Greene County Hospital & Nursing Home

Military

United States Air Force Reserve

Alabama National Guard

United States Marines

United States Navy

United States Army

Manufacturing

Alabama Catfish LLC

Buffalo Rock

Bush Hog

Coca Cola United

G D Copper, USA, Inc.

Ingalls Shipbuilding

International Paper

MRaine Industries LLC

Globe Metallurgical Inc.

American Apparel, Inc.

Austal USA

The Westervelt Company

Law Enforcement

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)

Mac Sim Butler Montgomery County Detention Facility

Montgomery Police Department

Selma Fire Department

Tuscaloosa Police Department

Automotive

BLG Logistics

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA)

Lear Corporation

Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.

American Honda Motor Co, Inc.

Education

Wallace Community College HR

Black Belt Community Foundation

Montgomery Job Corps Center

Hospitality

Murphy Family Restaurants - McDonald's

Wind Creek Hospitality Casino and Hotel

Resources

Edmundite Missions

Legal Services Alabama

The Wellness Coalition

Wallace Community College Adult Education

AIDT

Transportation

Averitt Express

Jay Hill Trucking

Norfolk Southern Railroad

Staffing Agency

Onin Staffing

AT0Z Staffing

Retail

Wal-Mart

Construction

Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC

Banking

Regions

Each year, Rep. Sewell alternates between hosting her job fair in urban and rural regions to ensure that the unique needs of each community are met. After last year’s successful job fair in Bessemer—which welcomed nearly 500 job seekers and over 50 employers—Sewell will host her 11th Annual Job Fair in her hometown of Selma in the heart of Alabama’s rural Black Belt.

The Job Fair is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged but not required. On-site registration will be available the day of the event. Constituents can pre-register at this link or on Rep. Sewell’s website at sewell.house.gov. Masks are strongly encouraged while indoors.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-invest-alabama-families-economy-fiscal-year-2023,"Rep. Sewell Votes to Invest in Alabama Families, Economy with Fiscal Year 2023 Government Funding Package",2022-07-20,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to invest in Alabama families and the American economy with government funding legislation for Fiscal Year 2023. This legislation will support our neighbors and families, create good-paying jobs, and protect Alabamians’ health and well-being. Within this package, Rep. Sewell secured millions in funding for local community projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. It will now make its way to the U.S. Senate.

“This government funding package invests in Alabama families and advances many of the priorities that Alabamians value most, creating good-paying jobs, improving our infrastructure, and bolstering our economy,” said Rep. Sewell. “I’m so proud to have helped secure millions of dollars in funding for local projects in our district! The funding for these projects responds directly to the needs of our communities, which is why I fought so hard for its inclusion. It is my hope that the Senate will swiftly approve this funding and send it to President Biden’s desk.”

Rep. Sewell secured funding for the following local community projects in the FY2023 government funding which passed the House today:

$4,000,000 for Blight Removal in Montgomery - The funding would be used to redevelop blighted properties within the City of Montgomery with the intention to revitalize neighborhoods that have historically seen a lack of investment opportunities.

$4,000,000 for the Selma Riverfront Multi-Plex - The funding would be used to acquire, redevelop and construct a center for essential public safety services accessible for all members of the community.

$4,000,000 for the Birmingham Valley Creek Rails to Trails Project - The funding would be used to redevelop and construct a 4.57-mile recreation and transportation project for low-income city residents.

$500,000 for the Town of Orrville Public Library - The funding would be used for the construction of a new municipal public library providing access to educational resources for a historically underserved community.

$750,000 for the Bethel Baptist Church Family and Child Center - The funding would be used to construct a multi-purpose community center providing child care and educational support for youth & families in a neighborhood that has experienced economic hardship and overall lack of investment for decades.

$1,500,000 for the Historic Brown Chapel AME Church Restoration - The funding would be used to stabilize the structure of the building to allow for further restoration of the sanctuary, bell towers, and brickwork. This much needed restoration is important because the church is a significant part of the Civil Rights movement story.

$6,800,000 for a F-35 Weapons Load Crew Training Facility at the Montgomery Regional Airport Base - The funding would be used to construct a Weapons Load Crew Training facility utilizing conventional design and construction methods to accommodate the mission of the facility. This arrangement will improve the ability to train weapons load crews and certify their continued readiness.

$15,000,000 for a Commercial Vehicle Inspection Gate at Maxwell Air Force Base - The funding would be used to construct a commercial vehicle inspection and entry control facility area. This project will provide perimeter protection and security of Air Force personnel and assets, prevent unauthorized access, and maximize traffic flow.

As a whole, this government funding package will secure critical investments in a range of key priorities for Alabama communities:

Creating Good-Paying Jobs by upgrading Alabama’s roads, bridges, public transit, rail, airports and water infrastructure.

Combating the Climate Crisis by expanding renewable energy, strengthening local resilience against extreme weather and spurring new, innovative technology.

Bolstering Alabama Health and Economic Security by investing in federal nutrition programs, Alabama small businesses, stronger consumer protection and expanded affordable housing.

Honoring our Service Members by investing in VA health care, military housing, child care for military families and mental health services.

Strengthening our Nation’s Food Supply by supporting Alabama farmers, expanding agricultural research and investing in land conservation.

Interior and Environment

$171 million for the Historic Preservation Fund, including $28 million for competitive Grants to preserve the sites and stories of underrepresented communities, and $10 million for grants to HBCUs.

$65 million for ten new grant programs authorized in the Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act, including $5 million for the new Decentralized Wastewater Grant Program.

$11.5 billion for the EPA, including $126 million to advance work related to PFAS, $5.18 billion for State and Tribal Assistance Grants, and $301 million for Environmental Justice.

Transportation and Housing and Urban Development

$62.7 billion for HUD, including an expansion of housing choice vouchers to more than 140,000 individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness and 5,600 new units for seniors and persons with disabilities

$105.4 billion in budgetary resources for DOT, which will create and sustain tens of thousands of good-paying American jobs rebuilding our crumbling transportation infrastructure

More than $2.6 billion to reduce emissions, increase resiliency, and address historical inequities in transportation and housing programs.

Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration

$560 billion for the expansion of broadband service

$30 billion in loan authority for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program

More than $1.5 billion for rental assistance and affordable rental housing vouchers for low-income families and the elderly in rural communities

$111.2 billion in required mandatory spending for SNAP, including $3 billion for the SNAP reserve fund, which will serve more than 43.5 million people

$3.6 billion in discretionary funding to the FDA to combat the opioid crisis, stem food outbreaks, and address heavy metals in baby food

Energy and Water Development

$4 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy

$350 million to advance technologies to increase resiliency, efficiency, and clean energy capabilities of the nation’s electricity delivery system

$100 million to accelerate domestic manufacturing of key clean energy technologies

$10.8 billion for the nation’s water infrastructure

Financial Services and General Government

$326 billion for Entrepreneurial Development Programs at the Small Business Administration

$336 million for Community Development Financial Institutions, including $10 million to increase the availability and affordability of small dollar loans

$400 million for Election Security Grants to augment State efforts to improve the security and integrity of elections for Federal office

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs

$15.1 billion for military construction, including $274.4 million for Child Development Centers, $2.1 billion for Family Housing, and $135 million for Climate Change and Resiliency Projects

$135 billion in discretionary funds for VA, including $13.9 billion for mental health care, $911.1 million for Gender-specific Care and Programmatic Efforts for Women, and $2.7 billion for Homeless Assistance Programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-s-legislation-create-black-belt-national-heritage-area-passes,Rep. Sewell’s Legislation to Create the Black Belt National Heritage Area Passes the House of Representatives,2022-07-19,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her bill, H.R. 3222, the Black Belt National Heritage Area Act, passed the House of Representatives. Introduced by Sewell in May 2021, this legislation would designate areas within the 19 counties in Alabama’s Black Belt as a National Heritage Area. Through public-private partnerships, National Heritage Areas are able to leverage funding for long-term projects that have substantial economic and environmental benefits. The Black Belt National Heritage Area Act passed the House by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 365-57 and will now make its way to the U.S. Senate.

“I’m thrilled to announce that the House has passed my bill to create the Black Belt National Heritage Area!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “As the birthplace of the Civil Rights and Voting Rights movements, the Black Belt is where some of the most consequential chapters of American history played out. This designation will not only help preserve the rich history of the region, but will also open up new economic and tourism opportunities. As a proud daughter of the Black Belt, I thank my colleagues for passing this critical bill and will continue working to get it signed into law.”

National Heritage Areas are established by Congress for the purpose of assisting efforts to protect and promote communities that are regarded as distinctive because of their culture, history, resources, and environment. These historic areas are authorized to receive up to $1 million in federal funding annually to preserve, protect and promote important sites. Under the Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area Act, the University of West Alabama would collaborate with the National Park Service and Black Belt communities to determine a strategic management plan.

“The story of Alabama’s Black Belt could not be more relevant with ongoing conversations exploring the multifaceted aspects of our country’s past, present and future. For Alabama’s Black Belt with its famously rich soils and landscapes have had a profound impact on the culture, history and politics of this country. Through designation as a National Heritage Area, we can shine a spotlight on these stories and bring them to prominence and ensure that future generations cannot only learn but appreciate our shared heritage. Designation is also important in that it helps us continue to build local capacity through shared resources. Our grassroots organizations have been steadfast supporters of this effort, and we are thankful for Congresswoman Sewell and Senator Shelby’s leadership in moving this legislation forward,” said Dr. Tina Naremore Jones, Vice President of the Division of Economics Workforce Development at the University of West Alabama.

“By calling for an Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area, Congresswoman Terri Sewell and Senator Richard Shelby have taken a stand for centuries of rich Alabama history and breathtaking Southern lands and waters, including the last remaining prairie east of the Mississippi River,” said Emily Jones, Southeast Regional Director for The National Parks Conservation Association. “The Alabama Black Belt was named for its soil, but this region has also served as fertile ground for Black history and the Civil Rights Movement. Civil rights leaders like John Lewis put blood, sweat, and tears into their work to organize and register Black voters here in the 1960s. Now more than ever, it’s imperative that we honor their contributions to the ongoing fight for the American right to vote.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-protect-marriage-equality-amid-right-wing-threats,Rep. Sewell Votes to Protect Marriage Equality Amid Right-Wing Threats,2022-07-19,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to enshrine marriage equality into federal law in response to continued right wing threats to Americans’ personal liberties. The Respect for Marriage Act will officially repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), a discriminatory statute excluding same-sex couples from marriage under federal law. This legislation will also codify new protections, ensuring that no married couple can be denied protections and benefits under federal law based on sex, race, ethnicity or national origin.

“Today, I proudly voted to protect marriage equality in Alabama and across the country,” said Rep. Sewell. “As the Supreme Court comes after our hard fought personal liberties, right-wing extremists are now threatening to strip away Americans’ right to marry the person they love. With the Respect for Marriage Act, House Democrats are taking urgent action to enshrine marriage equality into federal law and prohibit states from discriminating against same-sex and interracial couples. We will not go back!”

Following the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade, right-wing extremists have set their sights on other rulings upholding basic rights and freedoms. In his concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas explicitly called for the Court to consider overturning other landmark rulings, including the Obergefell v. Hodges decision recognizing the Constitutional right to marriage equality.

The Respect for Marriage Act will take several steps to combat this assault on personal freedoms:

Enshrining Marriage Equality into Federal Law: This legislation will require the federal government to fully recognize any marriage considered valid in the state where it was performed – providing same-sex and interracial couples additional certainty that they will continue to receive equal treatment under federal law.

Repealing the Defense of Marriage Act: While the Supreme Court has effectively voided the Defense of Marriage Act, this unconstitutional and discriminatory federal law still remains on the books. The Respect for Marriage Act would repeal this statute once and for all.

Barring Discrimination by State Officials: This legislation prohibits state officials from denying recognition of an out-of-state marriage on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity or national origin.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-defend-women-s-access-reproductive-health-care,Rep. Sewell Votes to Defend Women’s Access to Reproductive Health Care,2022-07-15,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to defend women’s access to reproductive health care in response to the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade and Republicans’ push for a nationwide abortion ban. The Women's Health Protection Act will ensure Americans’ right to make their own health decisions. The Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act will reaffirm the right to freely travel throughout the country to access reproductive care.

“The Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade was devastating, reversing nearly 50 years of legal precedent and stripping away a woman’s right to make her own personal health care decisions,” said Rep. Sewell. “This ruling will put women’s lives on the line, especially here in Alabama where women die of pregnancy-related complications at one of the highest rates in the nation. I believe that a woman’s deeply personal health care decisions should be made by her and her doctor, not her politicians.”

With its ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the Supreme Court erased nearly 50 years of legal precedent, fulfilling Republicans’ longtime goal of stripping Americans of their reproductive health freedoms. At least eight states implemented abortion bans the day of the Dobbs ruling, and lawmakers have begun implementing additional restrictions. Many are even seeking to impede Americans’ ability to access care across state lines and threatening to arrest doctors for providing care. Meanwhile, former Vice President Mike Pence and Republicans in Congress have called for a federal law outlawing abortion in all 50 states.

These attacks threaten the health, lives, and well-being of women across the country and particularly in Alabama which already suffers from one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation. Health care providers are practicing in fear of criminal prosecution leading to the delay and denial of life-saving care. Women who have been denied an abortion face a range of harmful outcomes, including an increase in household poverty, a greater likelihood of staying in contact with a violent partner and heightened risk of maternal death.

In response, the House again passed the Women's Health Protection Act to enshrine Roe v. Wade into federal law. Previously passed by the House last year, this landmark legislation has been updated to address the Dobbs ruling. The Women's Health Protection Act will uphold all Americans’ freedom to make their own health care decisions as well as providers’ freedom to provide lifesaving reproductive health care. This bill would supersede state legislation, voiding all state-level bans throughout the country.

The House also advanced the Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, addressing attempts to restrict Americans’ freedom of movement. This legislation will prohibit any attempt under state law to:

impede an individual from crossing state lines to obtain a legal abortion

interfere with a health care provider’s ability to offer legal reproductive care

restrict individuals from helping others to seek a legal abortion

obstruct the transportation of FDA-approved abortion medication.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-active-shooter-alert-act,Rep. Sewell Votes for the Active Shooter Alert Act,2022-07-14,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for the Active Shooter Alert Act, legislation that will help quickly warn Alabama communities of a nearby active shooter. The bill would establish a program similar to the AMBER Alert system, allowing law enforcement to effectively and efficiently alert the public during a shooting. Today’s passage of the Active Shooter Alert Act follows House Republicans’ attempt to obstruct this life-saving legislation last month.

“The Active Shooter Alert Act is another common sense measure to address our nation’s gun violence epidemic and save lives,” said Rep. Sewell. “This critical bill builds on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which I proudly voted for last month, by helping to keep people safe and informed during active shooter incidents. As we work to enact this urgently needed legislation, I will continue pushing for action to tackle gun violence and save lives!”

Since 2009, communities across the nation have been torn apart by nearly 300 mass shootings – attacks that have killed more than 1,500 people and wounded 1,000 more. Among the most urgent challenges during an active shooter incident is the need to prevent additional victims from unknowingly walking into the line of fire.

The Active Shooter Alert Act will support these life-saving efforts by establishing an Active Shooter Alert Coordinator at the U.S. Department of Justice. The Coordinator will offer state and local law enforcement officials voluntary access to training, technical support and advice for improving or implementing active shooter alert systems. These resources include guidance on the most effective alert content, delivery strategies and recommendations such as silencing alerts in the immediate vicinity of a shooter.

This legislation is strongly supported by major law enforcement organizations, including the National Sherriff’s Association, Major Cities Chiefs Associations, National Association of Police Organizations, Fraternal Order of Police, National Police Foundation and National District Attorneys Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-votes-fiscal-year-2023-national-defense-authorization-act,Rep. Sewell Votes for Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act,2022-07-14,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023. This legislation will provide a well-earned raise for Alabama servicemembers, bolster America’s national security, fund research at HBCUs, and promote U.S. leadership on the global stage. Notably, Sewell secured $15 million for improvements to Maxwell Air Force Base and $6.8 million to construct a training facility for F-35 fighter planes at the Montgomery Regional Airport Base.

“I take seriously my responsibility to ensure that our brave service members have the resources they need to keep our nation safe,” said Rep. Sewell. “That’s why I was proud to cast my vote for the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. I’m particularly proud that this year's NDAA delivers hard-earned pay raises to Alabama servicemembers and includes initiatives to support cutting-edge research at HBCUs.”

“I was thrilled to secure $15 million for improvements to Maxwell Air Force Base and $6.8 million to construct a training facility for F-35 fighter planes at the Montgomery Regional Airport Base,” continued Sewell. “This funding will continue to stimulate economic development in the region and help strengthen Alabama’s essential role in providing for our national defense.”

Passed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense. This legislation allows the Armed Forces to pay, train and equip U.S. service members; support America’s allies around the world; and carry out essential national security operations. With this year’s NDAA, House Democrats have advanced a range of key national security priorities:

A well-earned raise for Alabama service members, including a 4.6 percent pay increase for uniformed and civilian personnel, 2.4 percent inflation bonuses for service members earning less than $45,000 per year and a $15 per hour minimum wage for federal contract workers.

Support for the people of Ukraine, including $1 billion for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) and additional efforts to reduce U.S. dependence on Russian energy.

Resources for minority serving institutions, including more than $111 million in HBCU research funding and a pilot program to increase research capacity at MSIs.

Investments in next-generation defense technology, including $275 million to fund advances in hypersonics, electronic warfare and artificial intelligence.

Civilian harm mitigation measures, including the establishment of a Commission on Civilian Harm and a Center for Excellence in Civilian Harm Mitigation.

Improvements to supply chain security, including an assessment of dual-use technology and strengthened risk management for pharmaceutical supply chains.

Expanded cooperation with U.S. allies, including anti-trafficking and climate resilience efforts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-host-11th-annual-job-fair-selma-august-4th,Rep. Sewell to Host 11th Annual Job Fair in Selma on August 4th,2022-07-13,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Selma, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that she will host her 11th Annual Job Fair at the Wallace Community College Gymnasium in Selma, Alabama on Thursday, August 4th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM CST. Rep. Sewell’s largest constituent event of the year, the annual Job Fair connects job-seekers to employers from across Alabama and reflects her commitment to bringing opportunities directly to her constituents.

“Since coming to Congress, I have made it my mission to bring jobs, resources, and opportunities to my constituents wherever they are. That’s why my annual Job Fair is one of the most important events we host all year,” said Rep. Sewell. “I’m so excited to announce that this year’s 11th Annual Job Fair is returning to Selma, Alabama! As a proud daughter of Alabama's Black Belt, I know firsthand just how much potential there is for our communities to thrive. I look forward to welcoming job-seekers and employers to Selma in just a few short weeks!”

Details for the 11th Annual Job Fair in Selma

Each year, Rep. Sewell alternates between hosting her job fair in urban and rural regions to ensure that the unique needs of each community are met. After last year’s successful job fair in Bessemer—which welcomed nearly 500 job seekers and over 50 employers—Sewell will host her 11th Annual Job Fair in her hometown of Selma in the heart of Alabama’s rural Black Belt.

This year’s event will feature employers from at least 10 sectors including: Automotive, Restaurant and Food Management, Transportation and Construction, Hospitality and Retail, Health Services, Utilities and Telecommunications, Manufacturing and Production, Staffing Agencies, Government Agencies, and Law Enforcement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-announces-25-million-preserve-alabama-hbcus,Rep. Sewell Announces $2.5 Million to Preserve Alabama HBCUs,2022-07-08,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the National Park Service (NPS) will award $2.5 million to five Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Alabama. The funding will be used to preserve historic structures on the campuses of Alabama State University, Miles College, Selma University, Alabama A&M University, and Stillman College. Each year, Sewell leads the congressional effort to increase funding for the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) to preserve Civil Rights sites and HBCU campuses. Sewell proudly serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus.

The following Alabama HBCUs will receive funding:

Alabama State University - $500,000 for the G.W. Trenholm Hall Preservation Project

Miles College - $500,000 for the Williams Hall Historic Preservation Project

Selma University - $500,000 to preserve the Historic Dinkins Memorial Hall

Alabama A&M University - $500,000 for restoration and renovation of Carnegie Hall Library

Stillman College - $500,000 to transform Sheppard Library into a Civil Rights museum

“I’m thrilled to announce that the National Park Service is investing $2.5 million to preserve historic structures on the campuses of Alabama’s HBCUs. This is a big win for Alabama!” said Rep. Sewell. “Alabama’s HBCUs have played such a pivotal role in shaping the history of our nation, and I was so proud to help make this funding available which will be used to preserve these cherished institutions. As Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I remain committed to ensuring the vitality of Alabama’s HBCUs. Fighting for funding like this will continue to be one of my top legislative priorities!”

“On behalf of everyone at Selma University, we are elated to receive the grant award,” said Selma University President Stanford E. Angion, Ed.D. “We are so appreciative of Congresswoman Sewell’s support of the university. This funding will go a long way in helping our students at Selma University and the entire community of Selma, Alabama.”

""Stillman College sits on the 105-acre former Cochran plantation that housed 71 slaves,” said Stillman College President Dr. Cynthia Warrick. “This grant will make a major impact for the restoration of Sheppard Library, especially its columns and capitals imported from Italy from the Cochran plantation house. We continue to be grateful for Congresswoman Sewell's unwavering support of Stillman College and all HBCUs in the District.""

“For more than 180 years, Historically Black Colleges and Universities have provided high-level academics, opportunities, and community for generations of students,” said NPS Director Chuck Sams. “These grants enable HBCUs to preserve the noteworthy structures that honor the past and tell the ongoing story of these historic institutions.”

The funding announced today is part of a $9.7 million investment by NPS in HBCUs nationwide. Since the 1990s, the NPS has awarded more than $87 million in grants to over 85 of the remaining active HBCUs. Congress appropriates funding for the program through the?Historic Preservation Fund which uses revenue from federal oil and gas leases on the Outer Continental Shelf, providing assistance for a broad range of preservation projects without expending tax dollars.

Accredited HBCUs are eligible to apply for this grant program, and eligible projects include physical preservation of sites listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. HBCU grants can also fund pre-preservation studies, architectural plans and specifications, historic structure reports, campus preservation plans, and National Register nominations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:20:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/7/rep-sewell-celebrates-white-house-announces-president-biden-will-award,Rep. Sewell Celebrates as White House Announces President Biden will Award Attorney Fred Gray the Presidential Medal of Freedom,2022-07-01,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) celebrated the White House’s announcement that President Biden will award Attorney Fred Gray Sr. the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor. A native of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, Gray successfully litigated a number of groundbreaking civil rights cases which led to the desegregation of public buses and the integration of the University of Alabama, Auburn University, and Alabama’s public schools, among many other distinguished accomplishments. For over a year, Sewell has been working to secure the Presidential Medal of Freedom for Attorney Gray.

“Words cannot describe my excitement as we learn that President Biden will award Attorney Fred Gray Sr. the Presidential Medal of Freedom!” celebrated Sewell. “From the very beginning, I’ve known that there is no one more deserving of our nation’s highest civilian honor than Attorney Gray whose trailblazing work helped end segregation and advance a more equitable future. Attorney Gray is one of the most consequential civil rights lawyers of our time, having represented Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, and the Foot Soldiers.

“I among others have fought hard to ensure that Attorney Gray receives rightful recognition for his groundbreaking contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, and I am overjoyed that President Biden will be giving him his flowers as he lives,” continued Sewell. “Congratulations Attorney Gray and may your legacy of service and sacrifice continue to be a part of our nation’s story for generations to come!”

“I want to thank President Joseph R. Biden for his decision to award me the Presidential Medal of Freedom, indeed a high honor for which I am most appreciative,” said Attorney Fred Gray Sr.“Thank you, Congresswoman Sewell for nominating me for this award. Thanks to many persons from all walks of life who sent communication to the President requesting that he bestow this honor.”

“This award means a great deal to me, an African American civil rights lawyer who was born in the ghettos of Montgomery, Alabama,” continued Gray. “It speaks volumes to Civil Rights workers who have devoted their talents and resources toward improving the quality of life of Americans in this country; and it speaks directly to African Americans in general. When I filed the various civil rights cases from 1955 to date, I was concerned about African Americans receiving the same constitutional rights as all other Americans. We have made substantial progress but the struggle for the elimination of racism and for equal justice continues. I hope this award will encourage other Americans to do what they can to complete the task so that all American citizens will be treated the same, equally and fairly, in accordance with the Constitution.”

For over a year, Rep. Sewell has led efforts to secure the Presidential Medal of Freedom for Attorney Gray. In February 2021, Sewell sent a letter to President Biden requesting that he award Gray the nation’s highest civilian honor. She has since transmitted numerous endorsements and letters of support from key organizations including the Alabama Bar Association, the National Bar Association, the Southern Poverty Law Center, and others. Sewell also helped secure key endorsements from her colleagues including Congressional Black Caucus Chairwoman Joyce Beatty and House Majority Whip James Clyburn who have communicated their support for Gray’s candidacy via their own letters and calls to the White House. Last December, Sewell celebrated Gray’s 91st birthday on the House Floor and once again urged President Biden to award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:20:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-welcomes-transportation-secretary-pete-buttigieg-birmingham,Rep. Sewell Welcomes Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to Birmingham to Announce Program to Reconnect Communities,2022-06-30,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Mayor Randall Woodfin to welcome U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to Birmingham, Alabama. During his visit, Secretary Buttigieg announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is now accepting applications for the first-of-its-kind Reconnecting Communities program. Created by President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the $1 billion pilot program will help reconnect communities that were previously cut off from economic opportunities by transportation infrastructure. As the only member of Alabama’s congressional delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Sewell fought to ensure that equity was a central focus of the legislation.

Thursday morning, Rep. Sewell hosted a roundtable discussion with Secretary Buttigieg, Mayor Woodfin, and community stakeholders to give local officials the opportunity to speak directly with federal leaders. They then embarked on a bus tour to give the Secretary a firsthand look at the Birmingham Xpress Bus Rapid Transit service, a program that will soon connect residents from 25 communities to jobs, schools, and healthcare.

“I think it’s critically important that we bring together our local and federal officials for a chance to speak directly about the needs of those we serve,” said Rep. Sewell.“Conversations like these really help strengthen our partnership on behalf of the people of the 7th Congressional District and move our communities forward.”

Rep. Sewell joined Secretary Buttigieg and Mayor Woodfin for a press conference announcing the new Reconnecting Communities Program, a $1 billion, first-of-its-kind initiative from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law dedicated to reconnecting communities that were previously cut off from economic opportunities by highways and other transportation infrastructure. Reconnecting a community could mean adapting existing infrastructure—such as building a pedestrian walkway over or under an existing highway—to better connect neighborhoods to opportunities or better means of access such as crosswalks and redesigned intersections.

“The Reconnecting Communities program will help right the wrongs of our past by connecting neighborhoods that were previously divided by highways and other infrastructure,” continued Sewell. “This is about making sure that people can live where they want to live more affordably while accessing the jobs, schools, and services our city has to offer. I applaud Secretary Buttigieg and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for making these investments which harness the power of transportation infrastructure to connect our communities and build a more equitable future.”

""Transportation can connect us to jobs, services, and loved ones, but we‘ve also seen countless cases around the country where a piece of infrastructure cuts off a neighborhood or a community because of how it was built,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. ""Using funds from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are proud to announce the launch of Reconnecting Communities: the first-ever dedicated federal initiative to unify neighborhoods living with the impacts of past infrastructure choices that divided them.""

Secretary Buttigieg also visited the 16th Street Baptist Church to connect with other community leaders and learn about the church’s history and role in catalyzing the Civil Rights Movement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-continues-her-congress-your-community-tour-stops-westervelt,Rep. Sewell Continues her Congress in Your Community Tour with Stops at Westervelt Lumber and Thomasville Regional Medical Center,2022-06-28,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Thomasville, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) continued her Congress in Your Community Tour in Thomasville, Alabama. Rep. Sewell began by visiting Thomasville’s Westervelt Lumber Mill where she toured the facility and spoke with employees during a town hall event. She then toured the Thomasville Regional Medical Center and met with the facility's leadership to help address their urgent funding needs.

After arriving at Westervelt Lumber’s Thomasville Mill, Rep. Sewell spoke with the facility's employees during a town hall event and provided an update on her bipartisan legislation, the Disaster Reforestation Act, which would help the lumber industry recover following a natural disaster. Sewell then toured the facility for a firsthand look at Westervelt’s work which serves customers across the United States.

“I know just how critical the timber industry is to Alabama’s 7th Congressional District and to the State of Alabama,” said Rep. Sewell. “I want to thank Westervelt Lumber for bringing jobs, opportunities, and investments right here to our Clarke County community.”

“I also know companies like Westervelt face an immense financial burden when natural disasters damage our forests,” continued Sewell. “We must ensure that our tax code allows businesses to recover when disaster strikes, which is why I’m proud to be leading the bipartisan Disaster Reforestation Act in the House of Representatives. This bill would provide needed relief to this critical industry, allowing companies to claim losses of uncut timber from fire, storms, insects, invasive species, drought, or theft.”

“The Westervelt Company was pleased to welcome Congresswoman Sewell to our Thomasville Lumber facility today,” said Westervelt President and CEO Brian Luoma. “We appreciate her support on issues important to our industry, including the benefits of managed forests and the economic impact to our local communities.”

Following her stop at Westervelt Lumber, Sewell visited the Thomasville Regional Medical Center where she met with hospital officials about how she can best support efforts to keep the hospital open. For months, Rep. Sewell has been strongly advocating for critically-needed federal support to address the hospital’s urgent financial situation. During today’s visit, she reiterated her commitment to supporting the hospital which serves as a critical resource for those living in the Black Belt.

“The residents of Thomasville, Clarke County, and the Black Belt depend on the Thomasville Regional Medical Center for lifesaving care,” said Rep. Sewell. “I, along with Mayor Day, have been working tirelessly to find solutions that would address the hospital’s urgent financial needs. I want my constituents to know that I am committed to doing everything in my power to assist the Thomasville Regional Medical Center so that it can continue to serve this community.”

“We are fortunate to have Congresswoman Sewell on our team,” said Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day. “She has been an integral part of our efforts to improve our community and to raise the level of health care throughout the Black Belt. Her assistance and leadership in attracting jobs to the area through companies such as Westervelt has been invaluable. We are grateful she spent time with us in Thomasville today.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-statement-supreme-court-decision-overturning-roe-v-wade,Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Overturning Roe v. Wade,2022-06-24,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released this statement following the release of the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade:

“Today marks a dark day for women’s reproductive rights in the United States. With this devastating decision overturning Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court has reversed nearly 50 years of legal precedent and stripped away a woman’s right to make her own decisions about deeply personal health care matters. Empowered by the Court, extremist politicians in state legislatures across the country will now begin racing to criminalize reproductive health care. Make no mistake, our nation’s most vulnerable women will be hit hardest by this decision.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-votes-bipartisan-gun-violence-prevention-legislation,Rep. Sewell Votes for Bipartisan Gun Violence Prevention Legislation,2022-06-24,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a commonsense, bipartisan proposal to protect America’s children, keep our schools safe, and reduce gun violence across our country. The bill protects victims of domestic violence by closing the boyfriend loophole, cracks down on illegal gun trafficking, strengthens background checks for people under 21, and provides funding for anti-violence community initiatives. The bill also provides critical investments to expand access to mental health services for Americans in need. Last night, the Safer Communities Act passed the Senate by a vote of 65 to 33 after 15 Republicans joined all 50 Democrats in supporting it. The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“After decades of inaction, Congress is finally taking steps to address the gun violence epidemic in America,” said Rep. Sewell. “I applaud my Senate colleagues for coming to a bipartisan agreement on gun violence prevention legislation. This bill will take meaningful action to curb our nation’s gun violence epidemic and save lives without infringing on the rights of responsible gun owners. Notably, this bill would close the boyfriend loophole, strengthen background checks, crack down on illegal gun trafficking, and make substantial investments in our nation’s broken mental health system.”

“While this bill is not as robust as we would have hoped, any action is better than no action at all,” continued Sewell. “I was proud to cast my vote for the Safer Communities Act and will continue to push my colleagues for more action to keep our communities safe!”

Gun violence is a national public health epidemic disproportionately affecting communities of color in urban settings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in a new Vital Signs analysis, firearms accounted for 79% of all homicides and 53% of all suicides in 2020. Gun violence in America is responsible for more than 45,000 deaths per year, including 1,090 in Alabama alone. Every day, 30 Americans are murdered with a gun—a number that rises to more than 100 when counting suicides and accidental shootings. In addition to this daily loss of life, gun violence continues to inflict a heavy financial burden—imposing $2.8 billion in emergency room and inpatient costs on Americans each year.

The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-s-legislation-ensure-access-groundbreaking-cancer-detection,Rep. Sewell’s Legislation to Ensure Access to Groundbreaking Cancer Detection Tools Gains Substantial Momentum in Congress,2022-06-22,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her legislation, the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act (H.R. 1946), has achieved a significant milestone, earning the support of a bipartisan majority of members in the U.S. House of Representatives. This bipartisan and bicameral bill, which Sewell introduced with Reps. Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Raul Ruiz (CA-36), and Richard Hudson (NC-08), will allow for multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests to be covered by Medicare in a timely manner upon approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and once a clinical benefit is shown. The legislation enjoys the support of nearly half of the U.S. Senate as well as more than 400 organizations across the country.

“Emerging multi-cancer early detection tests hold the potential to transform the way we detect and treat cancer by catching cancer earlier than ever before,” said Rep. Sewell, lead sponsor. “By creating a pathway for these screenings to be covered by Medicare, this bill will ensure that our nation's seniors can access these technologies when they become available. I’m thrilled that this legislation now enjoys the support of a bipartisan majority of my House colleagues! This critical milestone brings us one step closer to seeing this bill become law and saving lives. I am committed to harnessing this momentum to get this bill across the finish line.""

“Multi-cancer early detection is an incredible example of the U.S. leading in medical innovation,” said Rep. Arrington. “This type of screening has the potential to drastically improve quality of life for American cancer patients and their families, and early detection will save taxpayer dollars by treating cancer before it spreads. I am proud of the bipartisan support H.R. 1946 has garnered and appreciate my colleagues’ recognition that this legislation will drastically improve our ability to treat and prevent cancer.”

“Today, we take a tremendous step forward in getting our legislation, the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act to the House floor for a vote,” said Dr. Ruiz.“With innovative medical technologies and multi-cancer screenings, we can catch more cancers earlier than ever before. However, these groundbreaking screenings remain out of reach for many Americans. Our much-needed legislation would improve health outcomes across the board by modernizing Medicare coverage so that older Americans can access them. I look forward to continuing to work with Rep. Sewell to push this legislation forward and improve access to crucial preventative care.”

“By increasing access to innovative multi-cancer early detection screening tests in Medicare, we can detect cancers sooner, lower health care costs, and save lives in North Carolina and around the country,” said Rep. Hudson. “I am proud our bipartisan legislation has now received support from a majority of our colleagues in Congress, and I look forward to seeing this bill become law.”

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. However, detecting cancer early can result in less invasive treatments, reduced costs, and most importantly, better outcomes for patients with cancer. Fortunately, scientists are developing and testing innovative blood-based multi-cancer early detection tests that can screen for many cancers at the same time, including rare cancers. The companies engaged in multi-cancer screening have both received breakthrough device designation for their tests and are pursuing FDA approval. Unfortunately, under current law, it could take several years after FDA approval before Medicare beneficiaries could receive coverage for such tests.

The Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act responds to a misalignment between advances in science and Medicare coverage by allowing for Medicare coverage of multi-cancer screening. It would significantly reduce delays for Medicare beneficiaries, while allowing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to use its evidence-based process to determine coverage. Accordingly, these new multi-cancer screening tools will complement existing screenings and dramatically improve our nation’s cancer early detection capabilities.

Specifically, the legislation would:

Create the authority for CMS to cover blood-based multi-cancer early detection tests and future test methods (like urine or hair tests), once approved by the FDA. Congress has acted before to create coverage for other cancer screenings including mammography and colorectal screenings.

Maintain CMS’ authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests.

State that these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and cost sharing will not be impacted.

“The positive momentum for this bill has been energizing for all of us dedicated to preventing deaths due to cancer,” said Jody Hoyos, President and COO of the Prevent Cancer Foundation. “We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Sewell, Arrington, Ruiz and Hudson and join them in celebrating this significant milestone: a bipartisan majority of cosponsors of the bill. We cannot move forward in decreasing health inequities and reducing cancer mortality without innovations that detect more cancers early and are accessible to all who need them.”

“ACS CAN is thrilled to see the strong bipartisan support for the MCED bill in the House,” said Lisa Lacasse, President of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN). “We know early detection is critical to surviving cancer, so ensuring Medicare beneficiaries have access to the newest screening technology once approved by the FDA and shown to have clinical benefit will mean fewer lives lost to this disease.”

“The Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) applauds Reps. Sewell, Arrington, Ruiz, and Hudson for their leadership in reaching this milestone and garnering an impressive amount of bipartisan support for this vital piece of legislation,” said Christian G. Downs, JD, MHA, ACCC Executive Director.“ACCC’s members are seeing and treating increasing numbers of Americans with late-stage cancer diagnoses, and this bill has great potential to help patients and providers access promising new technologies capable of detecting cancer earlier. In particular, creating a pathway to Medicare coverage for MCED tests will help to ensure equitable access to these technologies once they are approved by the FDA and start to address disparities in early detection and outcomes among racial and ethnic minorities.""

""The National Minority Quality Forum applauds the bipartisan momentum towards passage of the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act,” said Gary A. Puckrein, PhD, President and CEO of the National Minority Quality Forum.“This bill will have a significant impact on the well-documented inequities in cancer detection and outcomes that communities of color experience in this country every day. Thanks to the leadership of Rep. Sewell, those at greatest risk for deadly cancers, older Americans, will have access to innovative tools that will reduce their risk for late detection and less than ideal outcomes of care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-votes-accelerate-cutting-edge-cancer-research,Rep. Sewell Votes to Accelerate Cutting-Edge Cancer Research,2022-06-22,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for bipartisan legislation establishing the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) to accelerate transformative breakthroughs in detecting and treating cancer and other deadly diseases. A critical part of President Biden’s bipartisan Unity Agenda, this new independent agency will focus on spurring biomedical innovations and advancing cutting-edge health research that would otherwise languish without federal support. This legislation passed the House with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 336-85. Sewell previously voted to appropriate $1 billion in startup funding for ARPA-H, and this legislation will authorize the agency to begin operations.

“With more tools than ever before to detect and treat cancer, there is no doubt that our nation is nearing a turning point in the fight against this horrible disease,” said Rep. Sewell. “Now is the time to build on our momentum by making critical investments to accelerate cancer research and save lives. Today, I was proud to vote for bipartisan legislation to establish the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health. ARPA-H will mobilize federal resources to pursue ambitious, moonshot research efforts and help our nation deliver the next generation of life-saving treatments and cures!”

This legislation is modeled on the successful Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), which has helped develop technological innovations ranging from the Internet to GPS. Like DARPA, ARPA-H will catalyze breakthroughs that are cost prohibitive for private researchers or are otherwise not commercially viable. These efforts will focus on developing new health technologies to prevent, treat and cure a range of widespread diseases, including cancer, ALS, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-votes-bolster-mental-health-and-substance-use-care,Rep. Sewell Votes to Bolster Mental Health and Substance Use Care,2022-06-22,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for a bipartisan legislative package strengthening access to care for Alabamians grappling with mental illness and substance use disorders. Advancing President Biden’s bold vision for a bipartisan Unity Agenda, the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act will strengthen and expand more than 30 federal programs to address widespread shortages in mental health professionals and other barriers to care. This legislation passed the House with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 402-20.

“It’s no secret that our nation suffers from a mental health crisis which was only made worse by the hardship and isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rep. Sewell. “Congress has a responsibility to provide the resources Alabamians need to seek care during times of need. Today, I proudly voted to strengthen Alabamians’ access to mental health and substance use services. This legislation marks a critical step toward addressing our mental health crisis by removing barriers to care and investing in our mental health workforce.”

A majority of Americans will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime, and suicide remains the second leading cause of death among young people between the ages of 10 and 34. Additionally, more than 2 million Americans suffer from an opioid use disorder, and nearly 108,000 Americans died due to a drug overdose last year. Despite this urgent need for care, approximately 122 million Americans live in areas experiencing a shortage of qualified mental health professionals. Even among individuals with health insurance, coverage limitations and financial barriers continue to increase cost and delay care.

The Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act takes several steps to bridge these gaps and connect Americans to urgently needed health services:

Strengthening Crisis Resources, including suicide prevention, mental health support, substance use disorder services, recovery housing and other services.

Addressing America’s Opioid Epidemic by easing access to life-saving treatments and strengthening training requirements for practitioners who prescribe controlled substances.

Investing in the Behavioral Health Workforce through additional training grants and state funding.

Supporting Young People’s Mental Health by strengthening pediatric mental health care, Medicaid behavioral health services and suicide prevention resources for college students.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-fights-inflation-voting-lower-food-and-fuel-costs,Rep. Sewell Fights Inflation by Voting to Lower Food and Fuel Costs,2022-06-16,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for new bipartisan legislation to lower the cost of food and fuel, another step forward in House Democrats’ fight against inflation. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act will help bring down prices for Alabamians in the grocery store and at the gas pump by giving American farmers and ranchers the support they need to thrive.

“Today, I proudly voted for more strong action to fight inflation and bring down costs for Alabamians,” said Rep. Sewell. “Putin’s war in Ukraine is driving up the cost of fuel and food all over the world. But by lowering costs for America’s farmers, we can lower costs for families in the grocery store. I want my constituents to know that President Biden and Congressional Democrats remain laser-focused on bringing down costs for families in Alabama and across the country.”

The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act takes three steps to lower costs for America’s families:

Lower Fertilizer Costs in the Field to Lower Food Prices in the Grocery Store. Russia and Ukraine are major global producers of key components of fertilizer, and Putin’s war has dramatically driven up the costs of fertilizer for American farmers – in turn, driving up prices in the grocery store too. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act reduces our dependence on foreign fertilizer production and includes two bipartisan bills to help American farmers lower their costs with $500 million in USDA funds as well as loan guarantees to pay for solutions, including precision agriculture, to use fertilizers more efficiently. Lower costs for farmers mean lower costs for families.

Lower Meat and Poultry Costs by Increasing Meatpacking Competition and Capacity. Unfair, anti-competitive practices by the major meatpacking conglomerates who dominate the market are driving up the price of meat and poultry in the supermarket even as many of the men and women who raise the beef, pork and chicken are forced to accept prices that make it almost impossible to make ends meet. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act strengthens competition in the meat and poultry sector and alleviates the supply chain bottlenecks that let meatpacking conglomerates set bad prices for producers and consumers alike. The bill includes the bipartisan Butcher Block Act to expand and create new meat processing capacity and options to market cattle, as well as the bipartisan Meat & Poultry Special Investigator Act, establishing a USDA Special Investigator for Competition Matters with new powers to swiftly crack down on anti-competitive practices by meatpacking conglomerates in violation of the long-standing Packers and Stockyards Act. Better enforcement will lead to greater competition in meat processing, fairer access to markets for producers and more price stability for consumers.

Lower Prices at the Pump by Making Cheaper, Cleaner Unleaded 88 More Available. Homegrown American ethanol grown by American farmers is one of our most powerful tools to fight Putin’s Price Hike on American families, and nextgen biofuels infrastructure can make it even cleaner and more efficient to produce. Unleaded 88 is a cleaner, typically cheaper fuel option that costs on average approximately 40 cents less per gallon, emits less carbon pollution and burns cleaner than regular gas. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act expands access to lower-cost Unleaded 88 and taps the power of American farmers to break the grip of foreign autocrats weaponizing the price of oil and gas. The bill includes the bipartisan Year-Round Fuel Choice Act, which builds on the Biden Administration’s action allowing for the voluntary year-round sale of gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol, known as E-15 or Unleaded 88. The bill also includes the bipartisan Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Investment and Market Expansion Act, which invests $200 million to help deploy additional storage and dispensing equipment to ensure that higher ethanol blends, biodiesel, sustainable aviation fuel and other biofuels are more readily available across the country.

The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act builds on House Democrats’ ongoing work to strengthen supply chains and bring down costs for working families. Earlier this week, the Congress passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act to ease the burden of rising costs for consumers, retailers and farmers by cracking down on exorbitant shipping fees. The House previously passed the Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act to combat Big Oil’s excessive gas price hikes. Meanwhile, the House and Senate are continuing to advance a bold competitiveness package that will lower costs by reinvigorating American manufacturing while strengthening our supply chains.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-helping-family-locate-tuscaloosa-constituent-ukraine,Rep. Sewell Helping a Family Locate Tuscaloosa Constituent in Ukraine,2022-06-15,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding her efforts to help locate Alexander Drueke, a former U.S. service member from Tuscaloosa who volunteered to assist the Ukrainian Army in their war against Russia and whose whereabouts are unknown:

“Earlier this week, the mother of Alexander Drueke, a Tuscaloosa Army Veteran who volunteered to assist the Ukrainian Army in combating Russia, reached out to my office after losing contact with her son. According to his family, they have not heard from Drueke in several days.

“My office has been in contact with the State Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other members of the Alabama Congressional Delegation regarding this urgent matter. We will continue to do everything in our power to assist in locating him and finding answers for his family.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-votes-combat-discriminatory-practices-financial-services,Rep. Sewell Votes to Combat Discriminatory Practices in Financial Services,2022-06-15,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass the Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act. This legislation would advance racial equity and economic justice by combating discriminatory practices in in employment, income, wealth, and access to affordable credit. In doing so, it would extend life-changing financial opportunities to all Americans regardless of their race or economic status. This bill passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 215 to 207.

“Stable employment, home ownership, and financial security are essential to the American Dream and should be accessible to all people regardless of race or economic status,” said Rep. Sewell. “I was proud to vote for the Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act to ensure every individual, every family, and every small business has an equal chance at achieving good financial health and well-being.”

As it stands today, on average, Black and Latino households earn only half as much as the average white household and own only 15 to 20 percent as much net wealth. According to Brookings, the racial wealth gap between white and Black households is $10 trillion. In 2020, only 44% of Black families owned homes compared to 75% of white families. These disparities have been caused in large part by discriminatory practices such as modern-day redlining, and borrowers of color routinely being denied access to credit at much higher rates than their white counterparts.

It’s not just individuals and families, but small businesses too that are affected by discrimination. Minority-owned small businesses face challenges when applying for affordable and timely credit and even with good credit scores, entrepreneurs of color are less likely to have their financing needs met compared to their white peers. In terms of representation, boards of both the largest banks and investment firms are roughly 80% White and 70% male. Women of color are even less likely to reach senior level positions within financial institutions.

Minority depository institutions (MDIs) and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) have a proven track record of providing greater financial access to low-income communities and communities of color compared to other financial institutions, but these diverse and mission-driven community institutions have faced a number of challenges in recent years. Tragically, more than half of Black-owned banks have closed their doors since 2008. While Congress made an initial investment to bolster CDFIs and MDIs in December 2020, more financial support and reforms are needed to support these institutions as they provide financial access to communities of color and underserved communities.

The Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act includes several provisions:

The Federal Reserve Racial and Economic Equity Act would require the Federal Reserve to use its role to help eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in employment, income, wealth, and access to affordable credit.

The Diversity and Inclusion Data Accountability and Transparency Act would require diversity and inclusion data disclosure from federally regulated financial firms.

The LGBTQ Business Equal Credit Enforcement and Investment Act would require financial institutions to collect their self-identified sexual orientation and gender identity information to help combat discriminatory practices against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) business owners.

The Improving Language Access in Mortgage Servicing Act would establish language access requirements for creditors and servicers to better serve borrowers with limited English proficiency.

The Fair Lending for All Act would clarify and extend anti-discrimination laws, establishes criminal penalties for credit discrimination, and creates a CFPB Office of Fair Lending Testing to review loan applications for compliance with applicable laws.

The Promoting and Advancing Communities of Color Through Inclusive Lending Act would make bold reforms to support MDIs, CDFIs, minority lending institutions (MLIs), and young entrepreneurs.

The Promoting New and Diverse Depository Institutions Act would require Federal banking regulators to study examining challenges new depository institutions face and to develop a strategic plan to support the creation of newly chartered depository institutions, especially MDIs and CDFIs.

The Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Banking Act would require Federal banking regulators to include a diversity and inclusion component in the CAMELS rating system to evaluate how federally insured depository institutions are promoting diversity and inclusion.

The Improving Corporate Governance Through Diversity Act would require public companies to annually disclose diversity among their board directors and confirm whether it has adopted any policy to strengthen diversity among board members or company executives.

The Ensuring Diversity in Community Banking Act would strengthen MDIs and “impact banks” that predominantly serve low-income communities.

The Expanding Opportunity for MDIs Act would codify the Treasury’s Financial Agent Mentor-Protégé Program, providing MDIs and other small financial institutions with mentorship opportunities from larger institutions.

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act would reauthorize the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program for 4 years and reduce the minimum issuance threshold from $100 million to $25 million to allow more CDFIs to participate.

The Expanding Financial Access for Underserved Communities Act would allow all federal credit unions to expand their membership to include underserved communities and exempt small business loans made in underserved areas from the credit union member business lending cap.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-honors-late-chairman-elton-dean-house-floor,Rep. Sewell Honors the Late Chairman Elton Dean on the House Floor,2022-06-14,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Montgomery County Commission Chairman Elton Dean. Chairman Dean passed away on June 7, 2022, at the age of 72.

A video recording of Sewell’s remarks can be accessed and downloaded here. Her remarks are transcribed below.

Rep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the extraordinary life and legacy of Montgomery County Commissioner Chairman Elton Dean.

A native of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, Chairman Dean graduated from Montgomery’s own George Washington Carver High School before attending Selma University where he received his Associate’s Degree.

Returning to Montgomery, Chairman Dean pursued his Bachelor of Science at the Alabama State University, where he graduated in 1971 with a degree in business and economics.

Chairman Dean became a successful businessman, putting to work his entrepreneurial spirit to serve and improve his community as the owner of Dean Realty as well as 21st Century Hair Studio.

In November of 2000, Chairman Dean was first elected to the Montgomery County Commission where he humbly and faithfully served the 2nd District for over 20 years. Dean was elected Vice-Chairman in November 2004 before making history in March 2009 as the first African American to serve as Chair of the Montgomery County Commission. Montgomery County includes the historic city of Montgomery, Alabama.

Known as a dedicated public servant and passionate community leader, Chairman Dean’s legacy lives on in the countless projects and initiatives that came to fruition under his leadership, including the implementation of Montgomery County’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday. Chairman Dean is also known for bringing the commission meetings to the people by holding his “On the Road” initiative, which allowed the constituents to meet directly with their representatives.

Chairman Dean worked tirelessly to improve Montgomery County’s economic well-being. Among his most notable achievements, he oversaw the implementation of the one percent sales tax in 2001 which generated over $428 million for public education in Montgomery County, delivering critically needed resources to the children of our community.

Chairman Dean never missed an opportunity to give back. Through his adult life, he held countless positions, including serving on boards and organizations throughout Montgomery County which included Executive Board Member of the South Central Alabama Boys and Girls Club as well as Board Member for the Montgomery Improvement Association, Board Member for the Central Alabama Community Foundation, Chairman of Trustee Board and mass choir member of Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. He was Commissioner of the Central Alabama Amateur Baseball League and Commissioner of the Southern League Dixie Youth Baseball.

A very strong advocate for his alma mater, Chairman Dean, returned to the Alabama State University later in life to Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Alabama State University. In this role, he served for nine years and generated $525 million worth of campus improvements.

In his role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Alabama State University, I got to know Chairman Dean because he gave me, as a young bond lawyer, the opportunity to represent my parents’ alma mater, the Alabama State University. It was Chairman Dean who encouraged me to run for Congress and for his mentorship and his friendship I am forever grateful.

Chairman Dean has rightfully received numerous awards throughout the community: The Pioneer Award by The Montgomery Tuskegee Times, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Award in 2012, the Citizen of the Year Award by the Sigma Phi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in 2004, the Citizen of the Year Award by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (Montgomery’s Alumni Chapter), as well as the Kershaw YMCA Man of the Year.

Chairman Dean was a true public servant and servant leader, and though I know so many of us are heartbroken by his passing, I am eternally grateful for our partnership on behalf of the citizens of Montgomery County, Alabama and blessed to have been guided by his mentorship as well as his friendship over the years.

May his family find comfort in knowing that Elton Dean’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all of those he impacted. As we mourn his passing, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Montgomery County Commissioner Chairman Elton Dean.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-leads-letter-congressional-leadership-urging-action-extend,Rep. Sewell Leads Letter to Congressional Leadership Urging Action to Extend Enhanced ACA Subsidies and Close the Medicaid Coverage Gap,2022-06-14,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Kim Schrier (WA-08), Co-Chairs of the New Democrat Coalition’s (NDC) Health Care Task Force, led their NDC colleagues in a letter to congressional leadership calling for urgent action on a budget reconciliation bill that extends the enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies and closes the Medicaid coverage gap. Sewell and her New Dem colleagues pushed for and successfully secured the ACA subsidies in the American Rescue Plan (ARP). Protecting access to affordable, quality health care remains a top priority for Sewell and the Coalition.

“The refusal to expand Medicaid in states like Alabama is unconscionable and deprives millions of low-income Americans access to health care,” said Rep. Sewell, Co-Chair of the NDC Health Care Task Force. “With the American Rescue Plan’s enhanced ACA premium tax credits, we made critical progress in lowering costs and getting these Americans the coverage they deserve. Letting these tax credits expire would threaten to undo our progress, drive up health care costs, and strip Americans of their coverage. As co-chair of the Health Care Task Force, I was proud to lead my colleagues of the New Democrat Coalition in calling on leadership to prioritize extending these tax credits and closing the Medicaid coverage gap. We owe it to the American people to act now!”

“The enhanced ACA subsidies that New Dems secured in the American Rescue Plan have lowered health care costs and expanded access to coverage for millions of Americans,” said NDC Chair Suzan DelBene (WA-01). “Today, our members are leading the effort to extend the enhanced ACA subsidies and close the Medicaid coverage gap as soon as possible because we know how important it is to keep health care costs low especially during this time of global inflation. We must act now to protect Americans' health care and keep costs low by enacting our Action Plan to Fight Inflation.”

“We need legislation to pass as soon as possible to lower health care costs. We took necessary steps to cap insurance premiums as part of the American Rescue Plan, and now we need a permanent solution,” said NDC Health Care Task Force Co-Chair Kim Schrier, M.D.. “I’m glad to join my New Dems colleagues in pressing for this important action. We should be doing everything we can right now to address costs, especially when many American families are struggling with rising prices.”

Sewell has fought tirelessly to close the Medicaid coverage gap in non-expansion states like Alabama. She will continue to work with President Biden and Congressional leadership to get this critical legislation over the finish line.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-statement-january-6th-committee-s-first-public-hearing,Rep. Sewell Statement on January 6th Committee’s First Public Hearing,2022-06-10,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the first public hearing of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol:

“I’m completely stunned by the revelations uncovered by the January 6th Committee’s first hearing which brought to light new details about the attempted coup orchestrated by Donald Trump and his allies. Last night’s testimony revealed that even President Trump’s closest advisors knew that the 2020 presidential election was not stolen.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-secures-33-million-selma-river-erosion-project-and-birmingham-and,Rep. Secures $33+ Million for Selma River Erosion Project and Birmingham and Bessemer Valley Creek Flood Risk Management Project in Bipartisan Water Resources Development Act,2022-06-08,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022, legislation that would authorize crucial investments in America’s ports, inland waterways, flood management systems, ecosystems, and other water resources infrastructure. Sewell secured over $33 million in this legislation for the Selma River Stabilization Project and the Birmingham and Bessemer Valley Creek Flood Risk Management Project. WRDA passed the House today and will now make its way to the U.S. Senate.

Rep. Sewell secured over $33 million in the Water Resources Development Act for two projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District including:

$15,533,100 for the Selma Flood Risk Management and River Bank Stabilization Project, and

$17,725,000 for the Birmingham and Bessemer Valley Creek Flood Risk Management Project.

“I fought hard to include funding for the Selma River Erosion Project in the Water Resources Development Act, and I’m thrilled to announce that over $15 million was approved for this project by the House of Representatives today!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “This critical funding will help assist the Army Corps of Engineers as they work to stabilize the Selma River Bank and mitigate flooding in our community.”

“Our Birmingham and Bessemer communities know just how frustrating and dangerous Valley Creek’s frequent flooding can be,” continued Sewell. “That’s why I fought to include over $17 million in the Water Resources Development Act to address this flooding and find long-term solutions. I’m thrilled that this funding was approved by the House of Representatives and will continue to work to improve the resiliency of Valley Creek.""

WRDA 2022 includes provisions that would:

Improve U.S. water infrastructure by authorizing the study and construction of locally-driven projects developed in cooperation and consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Strengthen America’s economy through investment in our ports, harbors, and inland waterways, which will increase efficiency and support supply chains.

Build more resilient communities by restoring natural infrastructure and ensuring new infrastructure helps to mitigate the effects of natural disasters, extreme weather, sea-level rise, and other challenges posed by climate change.

Improve America’s ports and harbors, while ensuring efficient and effective use of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund dollars unlocked by WRDA 2020.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-joins-rep-williams-and-colleagues-introducing-sustaining-our,Rep. Sewell Joins Rep. Williams and Colleagues in Introducing the Sustaining Our Democracy Act to Strengthen Election Administration,2022-06-08,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-05), Bobby Scott (VA-03), Colin Allred (TX-32), Carolyn Bourdeaux (GA-07), and Marc Veasey (TX-33) in introducing the Sustaining Our Democracy Act. This bill would provide $20 billion in mandatory federal funding over the next decade to help states and local governments support election administration, including by training and recruiting nonpartisan poll workers and election officials and increasing access to voting in underserved communities. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Over the past two years, extremist politicians have sought to undermine trust in our elections to serve their own craven political ambitions,” said Rep. Sewell. “Across the nation, local election administrators have borne the brunt of this assault which threatens the very fabric of our democracy. By providing a steady stream of funding for election administration, the Sustaining Our Democracy Act would ensure that states and localities have the resources they need to administer free and fair elections. In doing so, it would help restore much-needed trust in the democratic process. As state legislatures continue their assault on the right to vote, enacting federal voting rights legislation continues to be my top priority!”

“Georgia's non-partisan election workers are instrumental to free elections,” said Rep. Nikema Williams, lead sponsor. “We must keep it that way. Elections and election workers in Georgia are under furious assault by the former President and Republicans who want to silence Black and brown voters. My bill will help hardworking local elections officials have all the resources they need to defend our democracy. With the very soul of the country at sake, there are no two sides to this issue. You are either on the side of democracy or you aren't.”

“Nothing is more important than the integrity of our democracy, and our election administration should be efficient and free from partisan interference,” said Rep. Colin Allred. “As a former voting rights attorney, I know that our free and fair elections are what set American democracy apart, and we must protect it. It’s why I am proud to help lead this bill that will invest in election security and help eligible voters cast their ballot.”

“Too many communities lack the funding to maintain their election infrastructure, leading to errors that degrade trust in and restrict access to our elections,” said Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux. “This legislation ensures local elections boards have predictable and consistent funding. As someone who has seen firsthand how dangerous it can be when election systems fail us, this funding will ensure we don’t face the same breakdowns we experienced across Georgia in 2018 and 2020.”

“With this year’s midterm election cycle already underway, we are reminded how important it is for Congress to provide adequate funding to support both our nation’s electoral system and election officials who ensure the durability and integrity of our democratic process,” said Rep. Marc Veasey. “That is why it is critical we continue investing in our aging voting infrastructure and provide much-needed funding to assist election officials and poll workers. As Co-Chair of the Voting Rights Caucus, I’ll keep supporting reasonable efforts that ensure Americans cast their votes.”

“Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, but in recent years we have seen a barrage of threats seeking to undermine our elections,” said Senator Amy Klobuchar. “It is critical that we respond to these threats head-on by ensuring that state and local governments have the resources needed to strengthen the administration of our elections, protect election officials on the frontlines, and provide all eligible voters with the opportunity to make their voices heard. From training more election workers to expanding polling places to making it easier for voters to cast ballots early and by mail, this legislation helps provide state and local governments with the funding they need to effectively administer elections and eliminate barriers to voting. I’ll keep fighting to make our democracy work for every American.”

The Sustaining our Democracy Act enjoys the support of 23 original cosponsors in the House of Representatives. It is endorsed by numerous organizations including: National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials, Asian Americans Advancing Justice - AAJC, End Citizens United/Let America Vote, Common Cause, Fair Fight Action, National Action Network, Spread the Vote, Southern Coalition for Social Justice, and Asian American Advocacy Fund.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-votes-life-saving-gun-violence-prevention-legislation,Rep. Sewell Votes for Life-Saving Gun Violence Prevention Legislation,2022-06-07,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to protect Alabama communities and save lives with a strong legislative package to address gun violence. The Protecting Our Kids Act includes common sense gun safety measures that will crack down on illegal gun trafficking, keep weapons of war out of the hands of teenagers, strengthen safe gun storage, restrict access to untraceable “ghost guns” and more.

“It is unconscionable that gun violence is the leading killer of children in our nation and in Alabama,” said Rep. Sewell. “The time for thoughts and prayers is over. We in Congress have a moral obligation to take action to prevent these senseless killings.”

“Today, the House took bold action to help stop the bloodshed,” continued Sewell. “I was proud to vote for the Protecting Our Kids Act which advances common sense measures to keep Alabamians safe, from getting illegal guns off the streets to banning high-capacity weapons to raising the age to purchase semi-automatic weapons. This is not about targeting responsible gun owners. This is about keeping guns out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them and saving lives.”

Gun violence in America is responsible for more than 45,000 deaths per year, including 1,090 in Alabama alone. Every day, 30 Americans are murdered with a gun—a number that rises to more than 100 when counting suicides and accidental shootings. In addition to this daily loss of life, gun violence continues to inflict a heavy financial burden—imposing $2.8 billion in emergency room and inpatient costs on Americans each year.

This epidemic of gun violence has continued to tear through communities in Alabama and across the country. Last month, Americans were horrified by mass shootings at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas and a supermarket in Buffalo, New York—both carried out by 18-year-olds legally armed with semi-automatic assault rifles. Just this past weekend, at least thirteen mass shootings terrorized more communities across the country.

The Protecting Our Kids Act takes key steps to address this crisis and safeguard Alabamians’ wellbeing. This bold legislative package includes several measures, including:

The Raise the Age Act: raising the purchasing age for semi-automatic weapons to 21 years old. Currently, someone could buy a semi-automatic rifle, the weapon of choice in many mass shootings, at just 18 years old – yet you must be 21 to buy a less lethal handgun.

The Prevent Gun Trafficking Act: cracking down on gun trafficking and straw purchases to get illegal guns off of our streets.

The Untraceable Firearms Act: subjecting ghost gun purchases to background check requirements.

The Closing the Bump Stock Loophole Act: closing the bump stock loophole to ban these deadly tools from civilian use.

The Keep Americans Safe Act: outlawing high-capacity magazines, which are designed for killing en masse and have been the accessory of choice in the bloodiest mass shootings.

Strengthening safe storage requirements to protect children from accidental shootings.

Requiring an annual report of demographic data of those being determined to be ineligible to purchase guns.

The Protecting Our Kids Act builds on the House’s twice-passed legislation advancing universal background checks for all gun purchases, action that is supported by nearly nine in ten Americans. Tomorrow, the House will vote on additional legislation establishing extreme risk protection orders, empowering courts to keep firearms out of the hands of individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/rep-sewell-statement-president-biden-s-address-gun-violence,Rep. Sewell Statement on President Biden’s Address on Gun Violence,2022-06-02,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding President Joe Biden’s address to the nation on gun violence:

“President Biden said it best. The epidemic of gun violence is turning our communities into battlefields and leaving families broken and devastated. We cannot continue to mourn these tragedies without doing all we can to prevent them. I join President Biden and Americans of every background in calling on my congressional colleagues to take action.

“Next week, the House will consider the Protecting our Kids Act which includes common sense gun safety measures supported by the vast majority of Americans. This critical bill would crack down on illegal gun trafficking, raise the age to purchase semi-automatic weapons, strengthen background checks, and prevent guns from getting into the hands of those who shouldn’t have them. While we can’t prevent every tragedy, these measures will greatly reduce the impact of gun violence on our communities and save lives. I will be voting yes, and I urge my colleagues to set aside party politics and do the same.

“To be clear, these measures do not target responsible gun owners. This is about common sense measures that will keep our children, families, and communities safe.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/tour-request-post,TOUR REQUEST POST,2022-06-02,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"TOUR REQUEST POST
June 2, 2022
SOMETHING ABOUT tour
Permalink:
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/6/tour-request-post",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-congratulates-attorney-fred-gray-receipt-honorary-degree,Rep. Sewell Congratulates Attorney Fred Gray on Receipt of Honorary Degree from Princeton University,2022-05-24,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) congratulated Civil Rights Attorney Fred Gray on his receipt of an honorary degree from Princeton University. Yesterday, Tuesday, May 24, Princeton awarded Gray an honorary degree during its 2022 commencement ceremony for his groundbreaking contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and lifelong dedication to advancing equality and justice for all.

“As a proud Princeton alumna and member of the Princeton Board of Trustees, I am so excited that Attorney FredGray received an honorary degree from my alma mater for his trailblazing work to help end segregation and advance a more equitable future for all Americans,” said Rep. Sewell. “Attorney Gray is a true drum major for justice, and I can think of no one more deserving of this distinct honor. Congratulations, Attorney Gray, and may your lifelong dedication to equality and justice inspire the next generation of change-makers!”

Last December, Rep. Sewell celebrated Attorney Gray’s 91st birthday on the House Floor and urged President Biden to award him the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. A native of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, Gray successfully litigated a number of groundbreaking civil rights cases which led to the desegregation of public buses and the integration of the University of Alabama, Auburn University, and Alabama’s public schools, among many other distinguished accomplishments.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-votes-workforce-investments-fill-job-openings-lower-costs,"Rep. Sewell Votes for Workforce Investments to Fill Job Openings, Lower Costs",2022-05-17,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Sewell (AL-07) voted to reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), legislation that will help unleash the full potential of Alabama’s workforce by ensuring Alabamians have the skills they need to succeed. Amid the strongest job growth in modern times, these investments will connect Alabamians to a record number of job openings—bringing workers off the sidelines, increasing production, and lowering the cost of key goods.

“Today, I proudly voted to invest in Alabama’s workforce, which is the cornerstone of economic growth and prosperity in our state,” said Rep. Sewell. “By fully funding our federal workforce development system, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act will deliver high-quality job training and empower Alabamians to take advantage of record job growth we’re experiencing under President Biden. By getting people in jobs, this legislation will help bolster Alabama’s manufacturing base and lower costs for hardworking Alabama families.”

WIOA makes up the heart of the United States’ workforce development system, but its Congressional authorization has not been renewed since lapsing in 2020. Additionally, while the U.S. labor force has grown by roughly half over the past four decades, federal workforce development spending has fallen by two thirds. This funding gap means that essential job training services are frequently unavailable to Alabamians who need them most.

Today’s reauthorization fully funds WIOA for six years, allowing the workforce development system to train one million American workers per year by 2028. Additionally, it further expands pathways to opportunity by strengthening the Job Corps program, supporting summer and year-round jobs programs for young people and establishing a new employment program for formerly incarcerated Americans. By helping fill a record number of job openings, these workforce development investments will power the economy and lower costs for working families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-announces-36-million-funding-national-park-service-preserve,Rep. Sewell Announces $3.6+ Million in Funding from the National Park Service to Preserve Civil Rights Sites in Alabama,2022-05-16,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced over $3.6 million in funding from the National Park Service’s (NPS) African American Civil Rights Grant Program that is being awarded to preserve historic sites in Alabama related to Civil Rights and the African American struggle for equality.

“I am thrilled that over $3.6 million in funding from the National Park Service is being invested into Alabama to preserve the living history of the Civil Rights Movement,” said Rep. Sewell. “As the Representative of America’s Civil Rights district, I’m proud to lead the congressional effort every year to increase funding for the National Park Service Civil Rights Historic Preservation Grant Program to ensure that America’s civil rights history lives on. This is a big win for the State of Alabama and the many Foot Soldiers and Freedom Fighters on whose shoulders we stand.”

NPS has awarded the following grants, which total $3,665,408 for historic sites in Alabama:

$500,000 to Birmingham’s Saint Paul United Methodist Church for preservation, restoration, and repair

$50,000 to the Birmingham Black Radio Museum for the permanent exhibit at the Carver Theatre

$499,799 to Auburn University for stabilization and exterior rehabilitation of the Tankersley Rosenwald School in Hope Hull

$469,500 to the Alabama Historical Commission for stabilization and preservation of the Schooner Clotilda in Mobile, the Last-known Slave Ship to Import Enslaved Africans to the United States

$500,000 to the Mount Zion Center Foundation, Inc. in Montgomery for the rehabilitation of the Mount Zion AME Zion Church Memorial Annex

$50,000 to the Alabama Historical Commission for the Freedom Rides Museum Interior Exhibit Plan in Montgomery

$50,000 to the City of Montgomery for the civil engineering of “The Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama: The Planned Destruction of a Prosperous African American Community”

$46,588 to Auburn University for “Memory and the March: Oral Histories with Selma's Foot Soldiers”

$500,000 to the Historic Brown Chapel AME Church Preservation Society, Inc. for the preservation of Selma’s endangered Historic Brown Chapel AME Church

$500,000 to the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church Selma AL Legacy Foundation, Inc. for critical systems and accessibility upgrades to Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church

$499,521 to the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth & Reconciliation for rehabilitation of the Historic Sullivan Building for use as a community and culture center

“The Genesis of our success began with Congresswoman Sewell,” said Dr. Charles P. Everett, IV, President of the Mount Zion AME Center Foundation. “She provided information through grant workshops, which assisted our efforts in forming a team to work towards a successful application. We believe that when God gives you a vision, the provision will follow. We are grateful to the Congresswoman, God, and the entire Mount Zion A.M.E. Center Foundation Team.”

“The African American Civil Rights grants are critical to helping preserve and interpret a more comprehensive narrative of the people, places, and events associated with the African American Civil Rights movement,” said NPS Director Chuck Sams.

The African American Civil Rights Grant Program helps document, interpret, and preserve sites and stories related to the African American struggle to gain equal rights as citizens. The grants are funded by the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) and administered by the NPS. Grants fund a broad range of planning, development, and research projects for historic sites including: survey, inventory, documentation, interpretation, education, architectural services, historic structure reports, preservation plans, and ""bricks and mortar"" repair.

Established in 1977, the HPF is authorized at $150 million per year through 2023 and has provided more than $2 billion in historic preservation grants to States, Tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Administered by the NPS, HPF funds are appropriated annually by Congress to support a variety of historic preservation projects to help preserve the nation’s cultural resources.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-statement-gao-report-affirming-decision-locate-us-space,Rep. Sewell Statement on GAO Report Affirming Decision to Locate U.S. Space Command Headquarters in Huntsville,2022-05-14,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the release of the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) report to Congress which affirms the Air Force’s decision to locate the U.S. Space Command headquarters in Huntsville, Alabama. The GAO’s report follows the release of a report by the Pentagon’s Inspector General which found that the process for selecting Huntsville was reasonable and complied with the law.

“The GAO report to Congress confirms that Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama is the best place for the U.S. Space Command headquarters. From the very beginning, I have stood by the Air Force’s decision to locate U.S. Space Command in the Rocket City. I’m grateful to the Pentagon IG and the GAO for conducting these reviews, which showed that throughout the Air Force’s evaluation process, Redstone Arsenal was always considered the most qualified location for U.S. Space Command headquarters.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-and-sen-booker-introduce-legislation-advance-health-equity,Rep. Sewell and Sen. Booker Introduce Legislation to Advance Health Equity and Access to Care,2022-05-13,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced H.R. 7755, the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment (EMMT) Act, in the House of Representatives. This legislation would advance health equity and access to care for minority communities by requiring the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to work with experts to consider health disparities when developing payment models. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) on April 7.

“Our late colleague, Congressman John Lewis, knew that in order to achieve true justice, we must be intentional about increasing access to health care for communities of color,” said Rep. Sewell. “As co-chair of the Ways and Means Committee’s Racial Equity Initiative, I’m committed to advancing his legacy by bringing health equity to the forefront of our policy agenda. By ensuring that the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation considers the impact of new payment models on communities of color, the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act will help us reduce racial disparities and build a fairer and more just health care system. I’m proud to join Senator Booker in introducing this bill and urge my colleagues to give it their full support.”

“The current health care system contains numerous disparities in health equity and access to care, a fact that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sen. Booker. “My dear colleague John Lewis understood this and fought to make our health care system fairer. I am proud to continue this fight with this bicameral legislation that would make critical reforms to our health care system, helping our nation address health disparities and improve health outcomes, especially for underserved communities.”

Established by the Affordable Care Act, CMMI works to develop, test, and implement new value-based payment models. Under current law, however, CMMI is not required to consider social determinants of health—such as a patient’s environment, education, and economic status—when implementing and testing new payment models. The current status quo incentivizes health providers to pick patients who will produce favorable clinical outcomes, which leaves women, people in rural communities, and Black and Brown people sidelined in the development of payment models.

The John Lewis EMMT Act would direct CMMI to consult with experts on health disparities, such as the Office of Minority Health of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy, and the Office on Women’s Health, on developing new payment models that focus not only on lowering costs but also advancing health equity and improving access to care.

Specifically, the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act directs CMMI to:

Consider a model’s impact on access to care for people of color, women, and people in rural areas, in addition to cost and quality.

Include experts in health disparities and social determinants of health during the evaluation and review process for new payment models.

Directs CMMI to create a Social Determinants of Health Model that focuses on health conditions of those dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare, behavioral health, and maternal mortality.

“Movement is Life applauds Representative Sewell for her leadership in addressing the disparities in healthcare that are hurting so many in our country,” said Mary O’Connor, MD and Chair of Movement is Life. “By addressing how payment models are created—with a focus on promoting health equity—this landmark legislation will help address the systemic racism and discrimination present in our healthcare system and support access for all to the high quality care we would each want for ourselves and our loved ones.”

“Congressman John Lewis worked tirelessly to ensure that Medicare supported every beneficiary, in every community,” said Barbara Petee, President of the Root Cause Coalition. “In rural or urban areas alike, we must come together, across sectors, to ensure care for those who are not as healthy or wealthy. The Root Cause Coalition applauds Representative Sewell for her ongoing leadership in health care. The John Lewis EMMT Act is a crucial step in addressing social determinants and improving health outcomes across the country.”

The John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act is also supported by:

Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses

Acenda Integrated Health

Asian Services In Action, Inc.

Beyond Hunger

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

Center for Health and Social Care Integration at Rush University Medical Center

Ceres Community Project

Collaborative Consulting

Communities of Excellence 2026

Community Allies

Community Servings

CyncHealth

FARE

Food for Thought

Green and Healthy Homes Initiative

Houston Food Bank

Hunger To Health Collaboratory

Institute for Advancing Health Value

Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)

Loma Linda University Health

Mid-Ohio Food Collective

National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON)

National Black Nurses Association

Neighborhood Family Practice

Open Hand Atlanta

Operation Food Search

Osteoarthritis Action Alliance

Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation

Population Health Analytics Association Incorporated

Presbyterian Healthcare Services

ProMedica

RWJBarnabas Health

St. Louis Area Foodbank

The Area Office on Aging of Northwest Ohio

The MetroHealth System

Toledo/Lucas County CareNet

Town of Apex, North Carolina

Wholesome Wave

The legislation enjoys the support of 5 original cosponsors in the House of Representatives: Reps. Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Thomas Suozzi (NY-03), and Marilyn Strickland (WA-10).

The Senate version is cosponsored by Sens. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-honors-rev-dr-bernard-lafayette-jr-house-floor-advance-selma,Rep. Sewell Honors the Rev. Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. on the House Floor in Advance of Selma’s “Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. Day”,2022-05-13,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Selma, AL – Ahead of the City of Selma’s declaration of May 14, 2022, as “Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. Day,” U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to join the city in honoring the extraordinary contributions of the great civil rights leader, activist, and advocate for nonviolence.

A video recording of Sewell’s remarks can be accessed and downloaded here. Her remarks are transcribed below:

Rep. Sewell: Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to join the City of Selma, Alabama, in celebrating May 14, 2022, as ‘Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. Day,’ honoring the extraordinary contributions of civil rights leader, activist, and advocate of nonviolence, Reverend Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr.

Dr. LaFayette has made his mark in history as a civil rights organizer, minister, educator, and lecturer whose contributions to the Civil Rights Movement have garnered him national recognition as a leading authority on the strategy of nonviolent social change.

As a student advocate in the 1960s, he played a leading role in the early organizing of the Selma Voting Rights Movement. Dr. LaFayette was an active participant in the sit-in campaign and the Nashville Student Movement, and he worked closely throughout the 1960s with groups such as the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, SNCC, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, SCLC, and the American Friends Service Committee.

Dr. LaFayette began his activism as a student at American Baptist Theological Seminary in Nashville, Tennessee, where he was taught by teacher and SCLC mentor James Lawson the techniques of nonviolence. Dr. Lafayette learned alongside fellow students John Lewis, James Bevel, and Diane Nash before participating in the Nashville Student Lunch Counter Sit-Ins in the 1960s.

From there, his passion for civil rights continued to blossom, leading him to become one of the co-founders of SNCC, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.

As the director of SNCC’s Alabama Voter Registration Project in 1962, Dr. LaFayette relocated to my hometown of Selma, Alabama, where he worked with the Dallas County Voter League to open voter registration clinics throughout the City of Selma. Gaining a reputation as a fiery organizer and passionate proponent of nonviolence, Dr. LaFayette expanded his work from Alabama to Chicago, working with the American Friends Service Committee, Dr. Martin Luther King, and the SCLC's Chicago campaign.

He later became an ordained Baptist minister and served as president of his alma mater, the American Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. LaFayette is recognized as one of the leading proponents of nonviolent direct action in the world. He has taught and preached the philosophy of nonviolence in many colleges and universities across the globe, and he was a recipient of numerous honorary degrees, including one from Mount Holyoke College, the University of Rhode Island, and Antioch College's Coretta Scott King Center for Cultural and Intellectual Freedom.

Dr. LaFayette has written several books about his experience in the Civil Rights Movement and books covering his views and thoughts on nonviolence. These books include, ‘The Leaders Manual: A Structured Guide and Introduction to Kingian Nonviolence,’ ‘The Briefing Booklet: An Orientation on Nonviolence,’ and most recently ‘In Peace and Freedom: My Journey in Selma.’

For over 50 years, Dr. LaFayette has remained dedicated to equality and justice for all, lecturing at various universities and traveling internationally to train the next generation on how to achieve social change using the philosophy of Dr. King and nonviolence.

I ask my colleagues to join me, the citizens of the City of Selma and Dallas County, Alabama, in declaring May 14, 2022, as ‘Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. Day’ in celebration of the extraordinary life and legacy of the Reverend Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr., an Alabama gem and an American treasure.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-announces-winner-2022-congressional-art-competition-alabama-s,Rep. Sewell Announces Winner of the 2022 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,2022-05-09,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Montgomery, AL — U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) has announced the winner of the 2022 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The announcement was made at a virtual reception held Monday night during which Sewell joined participants to celebrate the 40 entries submitted this year by talented students from across the 7th district. Isabella Dennison, a 10th grader at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in Montgomery, was awarded first place for her submission entitled ""Legacy.""

“The 7th Congressional District is blessed to have so many talented students,” said Rep. Sewell. “I was truly amazed by each of the 40 entries submitted this year. Our first place winner, Isabella Dennison, did a wonderful job capturing our 2022 theme, ‘Alabama Awesome… The History Continues.’ Her piece speaks to the opportunity and responsibility that each of us has to carry on the legacy of the generations who came before us.”

“This competition is a testament to the importance of cultivating the imagination and creativity of our young people through the arts,” continued Sewell. “I am so proud of Isabella and all of the aspiring artists who participated.”

""In this piece, I sought to portray the concept of legacy and how it ties into Alabama history,"" said winner Isabella Dennison. ""Many visual representations of Alabama include the state flower and animals, paired with a section of the iconic Rosa Parks bus. Our diverse history is also represented in the colorful silhouettes in the background. Generational legacy and growth is shown in growing plants that start small and then flourish. The main focus is a young child being lifted to sow the fruits of past generations, demonstrating how the old, young, past, and future are all essential to a legacy. ""

“Isabella's piece ‘Legacy’ is a poignant visual representation of our generation,” said Dennison’s Art Teacher, Mrs. Chintia Kirana. “Kids are the future, regardless of their adversities, we must lift them for the future of our nation's Democracy.”

Dennison’s artwork will be matted, framed, and displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. for one year. She and a guardian will receive roundtrip airfare to Washington D.C. to attend the National Congressional Art Competition Reception.

Contingent upon enrolling, Savannah College of Art and Design will award the winner a scholarship of $12,000 over four years.

The other students that placed were:

2nd Place - Onda McKnight, 7th grader at the Capitol School in Tuscaloosa

3rd Place - Rebecca Z. DeCaro, 12th grader at Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale

Honorable Mention - Soniya Chames, 9th grader at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in Montgomery",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/5/rep-sewell-join-president-biden-troy-alabama,"Rep. Sewell to Join President Biden in Troy, Alabama",2022-05-02,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 3, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will join President Joe Biden as he travels to Alabama to visit a Lockheed Martin facility in Troy. This facility manufactures weapon systems such as Javelin anti-tank missiles which the Biden-Harris Administration is providing to Ukraine and which Ukrainians are using so effectively to defend against the Russian invasion. Sewell will join the President on Air Force One.

“I am thrilled to be joining President Biden as he travels to Alabama to visit Troy’s Lockheed Martin facility which manufactures vital weaponry that we are providing to Ukraine as they bravely defend democracy,” said Rep. Sewell. “Alabama plays a critical role in supporting the defense capabilities of the United States and our allies and I am so excited to showcase the essential work being done right here in our state. My congressional colleagues and I will continue to work with the Biden Administration to support the Ukrainian people and hold Putin accountable for his bloody war.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/rep-sewell-announces-over-42-million-department-labor-grants-greater,Rep. Sewell Announces Over $4.2 Million in Department of Labor Grants for the Greater Birmingham Region,2022-04-25,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the greater Birmingham region will receive over $4.2 million in grant funding from the United States Department of Labor (DOL) for job training and educational opportunities for at-risk youth. This funding, which was awarded through DOL’s YouthBuild program, will be used to support the development of apprenticeship and other career pathway models that prepare at-risk youth for jobs in construction and other in-demand industries, especially clean energy. The awards are part of a $90 million investment by the Biden-Harris Administration to grow America’s clean energy workforce with education and training for young adults.

The following organizations were named as recipients of DOL’s YouthBuild grant program:

Bessemer Housing Authority - $1,500,000

Housing Authority of Birmingham District (HABD) - $1,500,000

Cornerstone Revitalization Foundation - $1,259,237

“I’m thrilled that the greater Birmingham region will be receiving over $4.2 million from the Department of Labor!” said Rep. Sewell. “This announcement is truly a win-win for our community. By connecting at-risk youth with job training and education, this funding will provide our most vulnerable young adults with the resources they need to succeed, all while growing our green energy workforce. Once again, I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for making transformational investments in our community!”

“We are delighted to be awarded the Department of Labor YouthBuild Grant to help provide the youth of Bessemer, Alabama with additional resources, furthering their education and preparing them to become productive citizens in our community,” said Courtney Coleman, Executive Director of the Bessemer Housing Authority. “We believe these funds along with our community partners will work together to ‘Build Better Lives’ and ‘Deliver Hope’, which is the mission here at the Bessemer Housing Authority.”

“This is a monumental win for our agency,” said HABD Board Chairman Dr. Anthony Hood. “This award allows us to equip our most promising youth with the tools needed to thrive in an ever-competitive workforce. The demand for skilled trades and apprenticeships has never been stronger, and this grant allows us to place our young people on a direct path to the careers of the future.""

“Often, when a child drops out of school, society takes it as a sign that they have given up hope that life can get any better for them. This grant allows us to seek out those youth and give that hope back to them,” said HABD Interim President and CEO Dontrelle Young Foster. “With this award, HABD can prepare residents for quality jobs and promote the attainment of skills necessary for success in this knowledge-based economy. This is a win not only for the clients we serve at HABD but also for the entire City of Birmingham. ""

Following its Nov. 23, 2021 announcement of available funding, DOL awarded 68 grants—ranging from $700,000 to $1.5 million—to organizations in 28 states and Puerto Rico to deliver job training and employment services. Participants will engage in classroom learning that will prepare them for work-based learning opportunities building and rehabilitating affordable housing for low-income or homeless families in their communities.

Participants will split their time between workplace training and the classroom, where they will earn a high school diploma or equivalent degree to prepare for postsecondary opportunities.

Administered by the department's Employment and Training Administration, the latest YouthBuild grants complement the Biden-Harris administration's workforce priorities to advance equitable career pathway opportunities, quality jobs and climate sustainability by supporting programs that provide construction skills focused on green building techniques, including understanding sustainable building materials, solar panel installation, weatherization processes and the use of Energy Star appliances. These announcements will also further President Biden's Justice40 Initiative that commits to delivering at least 40 percent of the benefits from federal climate and clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities.

For the first time, the YouthBuild funding opportunity announcement included criteria that awarded bonus points for applicants that demonstrated their ability to provide training in green construction techniques, training the next generation of workers for resilience and clean energy careers of the future.

YouthBuild programs also train young people for employment in healthcare, information technology, manufacturing and logistics, culinary arts, and hospitality.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/reps-sewell-aderholt-release-joint-statement-support-huntsville,"Reps. Sewell, Aderholt Release Joint Statement in Support of Huntsville as the Preferred Location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters",2022-04-14,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Robert Aderholt (AL-04) released the following statement in support of Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville as the preferred location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters:

“There is no better place for our nation’s Space Command headquarters than the Rocket City. Huntsville is the world’s premier hub for space exploration and innovation and we resoundingly support the 2021 decision to locate it there. We stand by the Air Force’s decision that Huntsville is the best and only home for U.S. Space Command. We look forward to reviewing the Government Accountability Office’s report and remain confident that an objective analysis of the facts will yield the same conclusion.”

BACKGROUND:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/reps-sewell-wenstrup-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-protect-access,"Reps. Sewell, Wenstrup Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Access to Employer-Provided Worksite Health Clinics",2022-04-08,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) introduced H.R. 7487, the Employee Access to Worksite Health Services Act. This bipartisan bill would protect employees’ access to health care at their workplace health center by correcting a provision of the tax code that currently disincentivizes employers from offering worksite health clinics.

“Workers in Alabama and across this nation rely on their employer’s worksite health clinics to access critical health care services. These clinics make our communities healthier and offer countless benefits to companies and the workers they employ,” said Rep. Sewell.“We must ensure that our tax code rewards—not penalizes—employers for making these clinics available at the workplace. The Employee Access to Worksite Health Services Act is a commonsense bill that does just that. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Brad Wenstrup to introduce this bill and urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to give it their full support.”

“Our communities here in Ohio and across the country rely on worksite health clinics to provide valuable resources which keep people healthier longer by providing interventions and preventative healthcare,"" said Rep. Wenstrup, lead Republican sponsor. ""Our tax system currently disincentivizes employers from offering worksite health clinics, and this bill corrects that. I'm happy to work with Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Congressman Mike Kelly, and Congressman Earl Blumenauer on this important legislation and I hope my colleagues will do the same; let's keep America's employees healthy.""

Offered by many large employers and state and local governments, worksite health clinics play a critical role in the health and well-being of employees across the nation, particularly those who face barriers to accessing care. In 2021, more than 60 percent of large companies offered worksite health clinics which provide preventive and primary care, wellness services, and care for those with chronic conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic only further clarified the essential nature of these clinics which offer COVID-19 testing, administer vaccines, manage return to work programs, and deploy telehealth services to monitor and treat employees remotely.

Unfortunately, a provision of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) currently disincentivizes employers from offering worksite health clinics. Under IRC Section 223, employees are prohibited from contributing pre-tax dollars to a Health Savings Account (HSA) if they also receive certain supplemental health benefits—like those provided at a worksite health clinic—at no cost or under fair market value. As a result, employers are forced to limit the scope of services offered to HSA enrollees or deny them access enjoyed by other employees and their family members. These limited options dissuade employers from offering worksite health clinics because it diminishes the health impact for their employee population and forces disparate treatment among employees.

The Employee Access to Worksite Health Services Act would amend IRC Section 223 to clarify that accessing services provided through a worksite health clinic does not render an individual ineligible to make pretax contributions to their HSA. The bill would also broadly categorize the services worksite health clinics can provide to ensure compliance with IRS HSA requirements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/rep-sewell-announces-over-76-million-alabama-transit-projects,Rep. Sewell Announces Over $76 Million for Alabama Transit Projects,2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law she helped pass will invest $76,383,752 this year to upgrade and expand local transit in Alabama. $11,791,104 of these funds have been allocated for local transit projects in Birmingham and $4,124,766 for local transit projects in Montgomery. This investment will allow local transit authorities to buy new buses and railcars, address repair backlogs, modernize fleets, and transition to new technologies that reduce carbon emissions.

“Today’s announcement is yet another example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering for Alabamians.” said Rep. Sewell. “Alabama’s transit systems are in dire need of repair. This funding, which I was proud to help secure, will help us upgrade and expand our transit systems to reduce commute times and help connect our communities, all while creating good-paying jobs.”

Funding from today’s announcement will create even more good-paying manufacturing jobs, in addition to the 2,900 manufacturing jobs already created in Alabama under President Biden.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/rep-sewell-statement-confirmation-judge-ketanji-brown-jackson-supreme,Rep. Sewell Statement on the Confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court of the United States,2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the Senate’s confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court of the United States:

“The historic confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court redefines what is possible for the next generation of Black women and girls who can now dream of sitting on the highest court in the land.

“As a Black woman lawyer and Alabama’s first Black Congresswoman, I know firsthand that you have to see it to be it. Judge Jackson’s very presence on the bench will be an inspiration to all women and girls, especially Black women. It was Shirley Chisolm, the first Black woman to walk the Halls of Congress, who said, ‘if they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.’ With the confirmation of Judge Jackson, we as Black women are taking our rightful seat at the bench.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/rep-sewell-votes-deliver-urgently-needed-relief-alabama-s-restaurants,Rep. Sewell Votes to Deliver Urgently Needed Relief to Alabama’s Restaurants and Small Businesses,2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to secure urgently needed relief for small businesses across Alabama. H.R. 3807, the Relief for Restaurants & Other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act, will deliver $55 billion to replenish relief funding for restaurants and establish a new program supporting other small businesses impacted by the pandemic. The bill passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 223-203.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of Alabama’s economy,” said Rep. Sewell. “Today, House Democrats are once again taking action to support small businesses that were hit hardest by the pandemic. The Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which we created in the historic American Rescue Plan, has served as a lifeline for Alabama’s restaurants and small businesses, providing over $150 million in relief. Today’s legislation builds on our progress with additional funding for these establishments to ensure they can continue to reopen, recover, and rehire. As we build a better Alabama, I will continue to make supporting our small businesses a top priority!”

The Relief for Restaurants & Other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act delivers critical assistance to small businesses in three ways:

Replenishes the Restaurant Revitalization Fund to rescue struggling establishments - Established through Democrats’ American Rescue Plan, which Sewell helped pass, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) distributed $28.6 billion to restaurants across the country – including $154,096,761 for 866 small businesses in Alabama. Due to its popularity, the program quickly exhausted its funding before more than 170,000 eligible businesses could access relief. The Relief for Restaurants & Other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act will provide $42 billion to replenish the RRF so that these restaurants can apply for this assistance.

Helps ensure that the hardest hit small businesses don’t get left out - H.R. 3807 provides $13 billion to establish the new Hard Hit Industries Award Program, an SBA initiative to assist small businesses from across industries that were hardest hit by the pandemic and lost revenue but were not eligible for other grants or awards. Businesses eligible for these grants would have 200 or fewer employees and have experienced 40 percent or more in lost revenue as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Provides much-needed flexibility to theaters, performing arts centers, and other venues to expend relief funds - The bill amends the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program by extending the timeframe that current award recipients are required to incur expenses and expend grant funds",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/4/rep-sewell-votes-suspend-normal-trade-relations-russia-ban-importation,"Rep. Sewell Votes to Suspend Normal Trade Relations with Russia, Ban the Importation of its Oil",2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted for additional measures to hold Putin accountable for his unprovoked and bloody war in Ukraine and further isolate Russia from the world. A bill to suspend normal trade relations with Russia passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 420 to 3. A measure to ban the importation of Russian oil passed by a vote of 413 to 9. Having passed the Senate unanimously, both of these bills will now make their way to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I worked closely with my colleagues on these two measures which would hold Russia accountable for its unprovoked war in Ukraine and leave it weakened economically, militarily, and diplomatically. I was pleased to see these bills pass with overwhelming support. We must continue to stand with the Ukrainian people as they defend democracy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-votes-cap-monthly-insulin-costs-35,Rep. Sewell Votes to Cap Monthly Insulin Costs at $35,2022-03-31,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass H.R. 6833, the Affordable Insulin Now Act. This bill would cap out-of-pocket costs for insulin at no more than $35 per month in Medicare Part D and commercial health insurance, ensuring vital and affordable access to this life-saving medication for the more than 37 million people in the United States who have diabetes. The Affordable Insulin Now Act passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 232 to 193.

“Alabamians are being crushed by the astronomical cost of insulin which is forcing families across our state to choose between putting food on the table or purchasing this life-saving medication,” said Rep. Sewell. “This is unacceptable and it’s why I was proud to join my colleagues in voting to pass the Affordable Insulin Now Act to ensure that no Alabamian pays more than $35 dollars per month for insulin.”

Insulin is too expensive for millions of Americans, with 1 in 4 Americans who rely on insulin cutting back on or skipping doses due to costs. 34 percent of families with children dependent on insulin have been impacted by rising insulin costs, including adverse health effects and increased stress and anxiety. 26 percent of Americans with diabetes ration their insulin at least once a year—putting themselves at grave health risk because of cost. In 2018, more than a dozen people died while rationing their insulin due to the high cost. Insulin prices in the United States are much higher than other countries and continue to increase, with Americans paying more than 10 times the price of insulin compared to other similar high-income countries. From 2014 to 2019, the average retail price of insulin rose by 54 percent.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-celebrates-passage-her-legislation-make-it-easier-part-time,Rep. Sewell Celebrates Passage of Her Legislation to Make it Easier for Part-Time Workers to Save for Retirement,2022-03-30,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) lauded the passage of the Securing a Strong Retirement Act—also known as the SECURE Act 2.0—in the House of Representatives. This robust retirement savings package, which passed yesterday by a bipartisan vote of 414-5, includes H.R. 2944, a bill that Sewell introduced to make it easier for part-time workers to start contributing to their employer’s 401k plan. Sewell’s bill incentivizes saving by reducing the number of years of service required for part-time workers to make retirement contributions. As women are more likely to work part-time than men, this provision is particularly impactful for women in the workforce.

“We know that Alabama’s working families are facing a retirement crisis,” said Rep. Sewell. “Too often, incentives to save are designed to benefit the wealthy and the upper-middle class, leaving many families without adequate savings even after a lifetime of work. My bill addresses this fundamental inequity in our tax code by rebalancing incentives to save and making it easier for part-time workers to save sooner in their careers. I’m thrilled that this bill passed the House and will continue to advance policies that ensure all working people can retire with dignity and financial security!”

H.R. 2944, the Reducing the Maximum Service Requirement for Long-term Part-time Workers to Make Elective Deferrals to 401(k) Plans Act, amends the long-term part-time years of service 401(k) participation requirement included in the 2019 SECURE Act. The SECURE Act provides that except in the case of collectively bargained plans, employers maintaining a 401(k) plan must have a dual eligibility requirement under which an employee must complete either a one year of service requirement (with the 1,000-hour rule) or three consecutive years of service where the employee completes at least 500 hours of service. H.R. 2944 reduces the three-year rule to two years, allowing for part-time employees to begin saving for retirement sooner.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-attend-signing-emmett-till-antilynching-act-white-house,Rep. Sewell to Attend Signing of Emmett Till Antilynching Act at the White House,2022-03-29,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will join President Biden at the White House for the signing of the Emmett Till Antilynching Act into law. The bill, which passed the House of Representatives on February 28 and the Senate on March 7, will designate lynching as a federal hate crime for the first time in U.S. history.

“Earlier this month, I welcomed a delegation of Members of Congress and civil rights leaders to Montgomery’s National Memorial for Peace and Justice to memorialize the shameful legacy of racial terror and lynching that stains our nation’s history,” said Rep. Sewell. “Once again, we were reminded that confronting the past with eyes wide open is the only way we as a community can heal and move forward.”

“Today, we mark a truly historic milestone in our ongoing fight for racial justice,” continued Sewell. “For the first time, lynching is now a federal hate crime thanks to this Congress and the leadership of President Biden. While this legislation is long overdue, there is no time like the present to address injustices of the past. I’m proud to stand with President Biden and my congressional colleagues as we move forward from this painful chapter in our history and affirm the value of Black lives in America.”

From Reconstruction to the Civil Rights Movement, nearly 4,000 African Americans were murdered by lynching in the United States. Despite more than 200 attempts to codify antilynching legislation since 1900, it has never been successfully done until today. The legislation is named in honor of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy who was brutally lynched in Mississippi in 1955 after being accused of offending a white woman in a grocery store.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-host-town-halls-lowndes-wilcox-and-hale-counties,"Rep. Sewell to Host Town Halls in Lowndes, Wilcox, and Hale Counties",2022-03-21,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL — This week, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will continue her 2022 “Congress in Your Community” Tour, hosting town hall meetings in Lowndes, Wilcox, and Hale Counties. Each year, Sewell hosts a series of town hall meetings in each of the 14 counties that make up her district to give constituents an opportunity to share their views and concerns and hear updates on the latest in Congress.

Congresswoman Sewell will update constituents on American Rescue Plan spending, the federal funding coming to Alabama from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, voting rights, the situation in Ukraine, and Congress’ ongoing efforts to battle COVID-19. Constituents will have the opportunity to get their questions answered directly by the Congresswoman. Sewell will hold a brief press availability prior to each event.

Press interested in attending should RSVP by clicking here.

Details for Wednesday, March 23:

WHAT: Lowndes County Town Hall, Press Availability

WHO: Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07)

WHEN: Wednesday, March 23, 2022

11:00 AM CT - Press availability begins

11:15 AM CT - Lowndes County Town Hall begins

WHERE:Town of Fort Deposit Auditorium - 260 Old Fort Road, Fort Deposit, AL 36032

WHAT: Wilcox County Town Hall, Press Availability

WHO: Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07)

WHEN: Wednesday, March 23, 2022

4:00 PM CT - Press availability begins

4:15 PM CT - Wilcox County Town Hall begins

WHERE: Wilcox County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center - 1001 Earl Hilliard Blvd, Camden, AL 36726

Details for Thursday, March 24:

WHAT: Hale County Town Hall, Press Availability

WHO: Congresswoman Terri Sewell (AL-07)

WHEN: Thursday, March 24, 2022

1:30 PM CT - Press availability begins

1:45 PM CT - Hale County Town Hall begins

WHERE: Hale County College and Career Academy - 19875 AL Highway 69, Greensboro, AL 36744",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-honors-100th-birthday-rev-fred-shuttlesworth-house-floor,Rep. Sewell Honors 100th Birthday of Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth on House Floor in Advance of Birmingham’s ‘Fred Shuttlesworth Day’,2022-03-17,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Ahead of the 100th anniversary of the birthday of the late Rev. Fred L. Shuttlesworth, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to join the City of Birmingham in honoring one of its most prominent civil rights leaders. Tomorrow, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin will proclaim it “Fred Shuttlesworth Day” in Birmingham to coincide with his March 18 birthday.

A video recording of Sewell’s remarks can be accessed and downloaded here. Her remarks are transcribed below.

Rep. Sewell: Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a true Civil Rights pioneer, Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth, ahead of what would have been his 100th birthday on Friday, March 18th.

Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth was a civil rights activist who led the fight against segregation and other forms of discrimination as a minister in Birmingham, Alabama. He was co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, initiated and was instrumental in the 1963 Birmingham Campaign, also known as Project C for Confrontation, to desegregate the City of Birmingham.

Regarded as one of “the most courageous civil rights fighters in the South"" by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Shuttlesworth was a fearless freedom fighter who always stood up for what was right.

Shuttlesworth participated in the sit-ins against segregated lunch counters in 1960 and took part in the organization and completion of the Freedom Rides in 1961.

Throughout his amazing career, despite experiencing violent intimidation and numerous attempts on his life, Rev. Shuttlesworth remained vigilant in his fight for Civil Rights. The noted pastor of the Bethel Baptist Church is recognized as the key leader and organizer of the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham, Alabama.

In recognition of his longstanding dedication, President Clinton awarded Rev. Shuttlesworth the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2001. Shortly after, in 2008, the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport was named in his honor.

Although Shuttlesworth died at the age of 89 on October 5, 2011, he adds a long list of accomplishments, and to that the City of Birmingham is designating this Friday, March 18th as ‘Rev. Shuttlesworth Day” in honor of the 100th anniversary of his birthday.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-announces-alabama-colleges-and-universities-have-received,Rep. Sewell Announces Alabama Colleges and Universities Have Received Nearly $800 Million Under Democrats’ American Rescue Plan,2022-03-10,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Ahead of tomorrow’s one-year anniversary of Democrats’ American Rescue Plan, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the landmark law has delivered nearly $800 million to 70 colleges and universities in Alabama in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. These investments are helping make institutions of higher education—especially community colleges—more affordable, while ensuring Alabama students stay on track to graduate. At least half of these funds are being used to provide direct financial relief to students.

“As the only member of the Alabama delegation to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan, I was proud to help secure urgently-needed funding to strengthen Alabama schools and support college students in our state,” said Rep. Sewell. “The success of our colleges, universities, and students is critical to the success of the State of Alabama, and one year after President Biden and the Democratic Congress enacted the American Rescue Plan, Alabama’s campuses are seeing results. Thanks to this landmark law, Alabama’s colleges and universities have the resources to continue serving students and bring down costs despite unprecedented health and learning challenges. As we emerge from this pandemic, I will continue fighting to Build a Better Alabama—especially for our students.”

The American Rescue Plan delivered one of the largest one-time infusions of funding ever provided to America’s colleges and universities. Distributed by the U.S. Department of Education’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), these investments are already having a significant impact. A recent survey of college presidents by the American Council on Education found that HEERF enabled:

93 percent of colleges to provide direct financial support to students at risk of dropping out

81 percent of colleges to keep student net prices similar to pre-pandemic levels

70 percent of colleges to continue to employ faculty, staff, and other employees otherwise at risk of unemployment

63 percent of colleges to keep students and faculty safe by purchasing COVID-19 tests, health screenings, and health care

American Rescue Plan funds included significant investments in key institutions in Alabama, including:

Approximately $301 million for community colleges

Over $334 million for 13 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

Over $34 million for 4 MSIs – which includes Hispanic-Serving Institutions,

Predominantly Black Institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions, Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions, and Native American-Serving Nontribal Institutions.

Community colleges in Alabama receiving American Rescue Plan funds include:

Bishop State Community College: $34,271,512

Lawson State Community College: $34,045,562

Shelton State Community College: $29,004,331

H. Councill Trenholm State Community College: $21,002,921

Gadsden State Community College: $18,767,865

HBCUs in Alabama receiving American Rescue Plan funds include:

Alabama A&M University: $60,120,210

Alabama State University: $42,725,038

Bishop State Community College: $34,271,512

Lawson State Community College: $34,045,562

Tuskegee University: $30,961,457

Shelton State Community College: $29,004,331

H. Councill Trenholm State Community College: $21,002,921

Gadsden State Community College: $18,767,865

Miles College: $18,102,234

Talladega College: $14,112,105

J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College: $11,584,720

Oakwood University: $10,806,960

Stillman College: $9,171,243

Minority Serving Institutions in Alabama receiving American Rescue Plan funds include:

Auburn University Montgomery: $15,781,694

University of West Alabama: $6,804,076

Chattahoochee Valley Community College: $6,000,926

George Corley Wallace State Community College - Sel: $5,472,099

Examples of other colleges and universities in Alabama receiving American Rescue Plan funds include:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-brings-home-8379355-funding-local-projects,"Rep. Sewell Brings Home $8,379,355 in Funding for Local Projects",2022-03-08,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to fund $8,379,355 in Community Project Funding for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. This funding, included in the appropriations government funding package, responds directly to some of the most pressing needs in Alabama’s communities.

“I was so pleased to secure $8,379,355 in Community Project Funding in this bill which responds directly to the needs of our communities in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,” said Rep. Sewell. “These investments will uplift underserved areas and foster economic development across our district, and I know they will make a real difference in the lives of so many. I am proud to have fought for this funding which will make our community healthier, safer, stronger, and even more resilient.”

Rep. Sewell championed funding for 9 projects that will directly benefit the residents of Alabama’s 7th District. These include:

$550,000 for Community Oriented Policing Services in Selma, Alabama

$474,355 for Small Business Accelerator Program in Jefferson County

$3,000,000 for North Birmingham Elementary School Redevelopment Project

$700,000 for Lowndes County for Septic Tank Installations

$480,000 for City of Marion for Source Water Rehabilitation Project

$300,000 for West Central Alabama Area Health Education Center, Demopolis, AL for a community health worker initiative and purchase of equipment

$1,500,000 for Cornerstone Revitalization Foundation, Inc., Birmingham, AL for workforce development activities, including opportunities to obtain a GED, postsecondary credentials, and stipends

$575,000 for Hill Hospital, York, AL for facilities and equipment

$800,000 for Stillman College, Tuscaloosa, AL for facilities and equipment

The twelve-bill government funding package will help middle class families with the cost of living, create American jobs, support the vulnerable, and work to help small businesses and restaurants that are key to our economic future. Taken together, the funding for Alabama’s 7th District and the funding increases for critical government programs will help reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities and strengthen our nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-votes-pass-omnibus-appropriations-funding-package,Rep. Sewell Votes to Pass Omnibus Appropriations Funding Package,2022-03-08,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass H.R. 2471, government funding legislation for fiscal year 2022. The bill’s transformative investments will help working families with the cost of living, create American jobs, and support vulnerable and underserved communities. Notably, the bill includes $10 million for construction and expansion of the Selma Interpretive Center and $4.2 million for renovations to the Selma U.S. Federal Building and Courthouse.

The bill also includes $5 million for USDA wastewater grants, $450 million for the ReConnect Rural Broadband Program, $50 million for community based violence intervention initiatives, $11 billion for Head Start, $26.3 million for competitive grants to preserve the sites and stories of the Civil Rights Movement, $10 million for Historic Preservation Grants to HBCUs, and expands Housing Choice Vouchers by up to 25,000 low-income individuals and families.

“The programs that we fund in our annual government spending package should reflect our values as Americans, and I’m so proud that this year’s funding bill will help working families with the cost of living, create American jobs, and support our nation’s most vulnerable communities,” said Rep. Sewell. “I fought hard to include millions of dollars in funding for the Selma Interpretive Center, the Selma Federal Courthouse, wastewater systems, broadband expansion, and grants for historic preservation. I’m proud to report that this funding was included in this bill and will soon be on its way to our communities!”

Among many other programs, the government funding package includes funding for the following:

Agriculture

$5 million for USDA grants to private nonprofit organizations for the purpose of providing loans and subgrants to eligible individuals for the construction, refurbishing, and servicing of individual household water well systems and individually owned household decentralized wastewater systems.

Ensures 42 million people in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)-eligible families get the benefits they need with $140.4 billion for SNAP

Provides $450 million for the ReConnect rural broadband program, which last year got more than 100,000 people connected to the 21st century economy.

Includes $1.45 billion for rural water and waste program loans and more than $653 million for grants for clean and reliable drinking water systems and sanitary waste disposal systems.

Substantially increases funding to help resolve ownership and succession of farmland issues, often referred to as heirs property.

Commerce

Provides resources for local law enforcement who are facing a period of great challenge with $674.5 million for Byrne Justice Assistance grants and $512 million for COPS program grants.

Addresses the epidemic of gun violence with $95 million to strengthen the National Instant Criminal Background Check system and $50 million for community-based violence intervention initiatives.

Defense

Bolsters Ukraine with $300 million for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.

Support a 2.7 percent pay raise for all 2.1 million uniformed U.S. service members and approximately 750,000 civilian Defense Department employees.

Energy and Water

Supports economic and community development, job training, and critical infrastructure with $195 million for the Appalachian Regional Commission and $30.1 million for the Delta Regional Authority.

Interior

$10 million for construction and expansion of the Selma Interpretive Center.

Study to designate the Selma Interpretive Center as a unit of the National Park System and provide the Secretary of Interior authority to acquire property for expansion of the Selma Interpretive Center.

$4.2 million for renovations to the Selma U.S. Federal Building and Courthouse.

$26.3 million for competitive grants to preserve the sites and stories of the Civil Rights Movement.

$10 million for Historic Preservation Grants to HBCUs.

Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies

Includes transformative investments in education, including record funding for high poverty schools and students with disabilities, with $17.5 billion for Title I Grants and $14.5 billion for Special Education.

Strong increases for programs that expand access to post-secondary education with increases for Career, Technical and Adult Education, Higher Education, and Student Financial Assistance, including a $400 increase in the maximum Pell Grant.

Expands affordable early-learning programs with a record $6.2 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant and $11 billion for Head Start.

Military Construction and Veterans Affairs

$13.2 billion for Mental Healthcare, providing treatment and support for the nearly 2 million veterans who receive mental health services through VA, including $598 millionto fund suicide prevention outreach.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development

Rebuilds our crumbling infrastructure with $102.9 billion in budgetary resources for the Department of Transportation to invest in airports, highways, transit, passenger rail, and port systems.

Advances the safety and reliability of our rail systems and ports by providing $3.3 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration.

Provides $30 million for a newly created Thriving Communities Program for DOT and HUD to provide technical assistance, planning, and capacity building to rural and urban underserved communities in need of improved transportation systems and to address historical inequities.

Expands Housing Choice Vouchers by up to 25,000 low-income individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, including survivors of domestic violence and veterans; includes up to 4,000 new affordable housing units for seniors and persons with disabilities; and protects housing assistance for more than 4.8 million individuals and families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/3/rep-sewell-releases-video-message-ahead-president-biden-s-state-union,Rep. Sewell Releases Video Message Ahead of President Biden’s State of the Union Address,2022-03-01,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released a video message ahead of President Joe Biden’s first State of the Union Address. The video can be accessed and downloaded here.

Sewell’s remarks are transcribed below:

Hi, I’m Congresswoman Terri Sewell and I’m here in our nation’s capital getting ready to attend President Biden’s first State of the Union Address. Tonight, I’ll join my colleagues in the House Chamber as President Biden lays out his vision to Build a Better America and his optimism for the future of this great nation.

I am also excited to hear President Biden speak directly to the American people about the historic progress we’ve made and his plan to address the challenges that lay ahead.

Already, President Biden and Congressional Democrats have delivered on our promise to grow our economy from the bottom up and the middle out.

Thanks to the historic American Rescue Plan, our economy achieved the fastest job growth in American history, the fastest economic growth in nearly 40 years, and a faster recovery than every other advanced economy in the world.

Now, thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re creating millions more good paying jobs, all while we rebuild our roads and bridges, modernize our wastewater and drinking water systems, invest in public transportation networks, eliminate blocked train crossings, and expand access to broadband for every American.

We’ve also made historic progress in the fight against COVID-19 as we move safely toward returning to our normal routines. Today, hundreds of millions of Americans are vaccinated and 99% of our nation’s schools are open, proving what we can accomplish when we work together and beat a common enemy.

Together, we must build this historic progress. I look forward to working closely with the Biden-Harris Administration to lower costs, invest in our small businesses, strengthen our democracy, reduce gun violence, and tackle inflation by strengthening our supply chains and making more goods here in America.

I am also looking forward to hearing the President address the troubling situation in Ukraine. Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war is causing needless suffering and death, and as Americans, we stand with the Ukrainian people. I am proud that this President has taken decisive action to unite our NATO allies in support of democracy and isolate Russia from the rest of the world.

Like President Biden, I know that it is never a good idea to bet against the American people. We in Alabama’s 7th District know that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary social progress when we put our minds to it.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/rep-sewell-continues-her-building-better-alabama-infrastructure-0,Rep. Sewell Continues her “Building a Better Alabama” Infrastructure District Tour with Stop at Montgomery Regional Airport,2022-02-23,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Montgomery, AL - Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) kicked off the second leg of her “Building a Better Alabama” Infrastructure District Tour with a stop at the Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) to highlight the transformational funding from President Biden’s $1 trillion bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Sewell was the only member of the Alabama Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the law which will deliver $140 million to Alabama’s airports for infrastructure development over the next five years.

“Alabama’s airports help keep our communities connected and play a critical role in the economic well-being of our state,” said Rep. Sewell. “We must ensure they have the resources they need to deliver safe and efficient air travel for Alabamians and visitors alike. I’m so proud to stand here at the Montgomery Regional Airport to announce that Alabama’s airports will receive $140 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I was proud to help pass. Together, we’re building a better Alabama for all our people!”

“The Montgomery Regional Airport is an important economic engine for the city and county, and we appreciate Congresswoman Terri Sewell’s commitment to improving the airport’s infrastructure and future improvement projects,” said MGM Executive Director, Wade A. Davis. “Her dedicated support will ensure that all travelers flying to and from the Montgomery region will have an easier and safer journey.”

Sewell began with a tour of the airport before hosting a press conference with MGM Executive Director Wade Davis and several stakeholders to highlight the over $140 million in federal funding included in the infrastructure law that will help improve Alabama’s airports over five years.

Nationally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will invest:

$15 billion for airport infrastructure grants under the Airport Improvement Program;

$5 billion for discretionary grants for terminal development projects to increase airport capacity, passenger access, and improve energy efficiency;

$5 billion to replace and improve air traffic control facilities, including navigational equipment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/rep-sewell-statement-russian-military-aggression-toward-ukraine,Rep. Sewell Statement on Russian Military Aggression Toward Ukraine,2022-02-22,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding Russia’s continued and unprovoked military aggression toward Ukraine:

“I have been closely watching the troubling situation in Ukraine. America must continue to stand for democratic values around the world, and I commend President Biden for standing up to Russian President Vladimir Putin and sending the clear message that America is committed to NATO.

“I was glad to see President Biden attempt to exhaust every diplomatic option possible to avoid a war in Ukraine and I applaud him for the strong sanctions he announced yesterday. If Russia chooses to continue on this path, there will be swift and severe consequences, including additional crippling sanctions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/rep-sewell-announces-alabama-gained-5500-manufacturing-jobs-2021,"Rep. Sewell Announces Alabama Gained 5,500 Manufacturing Jobs in 2021",2022-02-17,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL – Today, Rep. Sewell announced Alabama has added 5,500 manufacturing jobs, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Rep. Sewell helped local manufacturers create and restore jobs by passing the American Rescue Plan and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Sewell continues working to help Alabama create even more jobs by passing the America COMPETES Act which will strengthen our supply chains and start making more critical domestic products here in the U.S.

“This week’s jobs report shows that our economic plan, in partnership with President Biden, is working and we are getting Alabamians back to work,” said Rep. Sewell. “Together, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the America COMPETES Act will build off the momentum of the American Rescue Plan, creating millions more good-paying jobs by rebuilding America’s infrastructure and investing in U.S. manufacturing.”

Under President Biden, the U.S. has created 375,000 manufacturing jobs and a total of 6.6 million jobs nationwide. Notably, almost every state added manufacturing jobs in the first 11 months after President Biden came into office. By comparison, the entire U.S. economy added just 2,000 manufacturing jobs in 2019—including only 200 in Alabama—under the previous administration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/rep-sewell-welcomes-interior-secretary-deb-haaland-selma-and-birmingham,Rep. Sewell Welcomes Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to Selma and Birmingham,2022-02-15,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) welcomed Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to Alabama to meet with elected officials and community members and visit sites that uplift the significant role that individuals and events in Alabama played in the Civil Rights Movement. The visit was part of the Secretary’s week-long multi-state tour to explore how the Department of the Interior can help tell America’s story.

“It was my distinct honor to welcome my dear friend, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, to Alabama today!”said Rep. Sewell. “During Black History Month, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our history. After all, Black History is American History. I’m honored to partner with the National Park Service to ensure that the rich legacy of Alabama’s 7th District is preserved so that future generations can learn from the sacrifices of all those on whose shoulders we stand.

In Selma, Congresswoman Sewell, Secretary Haaland, Assistant Secretary Estenoz, and Selma Mayor James Perkins visited the Selma Interpretive Center where they met with key community leaders and Foot Soldiers who marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on Bloody Sunday for the equal right of all Americans to vote. The Center is part of the Selma-to-Montgomery National Historic Trail, which was established in 1996 as a unit of the National Park System to commemorate the people, events, and route of the 1965 voting rights marches in Alabama.

Last year, Rep. Sewell secured $10 million to expand the Selma Interpretive Center in President Biden’s FY2022 budget which is currently being negotiated in the House and Senate.

In addition to honoring the life and legacy of those who fought for equality, Secretary Haaland also heard about ongoing projects to expand the interpretive facilities of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. The Center underscores the National Park Service’s commitment to building relationships with local and historically marginalized communities through academic pursuits, partnerships, historical recognitions, community service, and fostering environmental stewardship efforts.

Congresswoman Sewell, Secretary Haaland, and Assistant Secretary Estenoz then traveled to Birmingham where they met Mayor Randall Woodfin and visited the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument. Established in 2017, the National Monument preserves and interprets the events, stories, and places associated with the nonviolent struggle against racial segregation in Birmingham, Alabama, during the mid-20th century.

The group visited various sites contained with the monument, including the historic 16th Street Baptist Church, St. Paul United Methodist Church, and the A.G. Gaston Motel, which served as the headquarters for the Birmingham campaign. The National Park Service has funded nearly $4.7 million to the monument’s sites through the Service’s African American Civil Rights Grant Program for Preservation and Rehabilitation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/reps-sewell-smith-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-support-rural,"Reps. Sewell, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Rural Hospitals and Protect Access to Care for Seniors",2022-02-11,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Rep. Adrian Smith (NE-03) to introduce the Critical Access Hospital Relief Act of 2022. This bipartisan bill would provide urgently needed support to Critical Access Hospitals—which provide essential services to residents in rural communities—by doing away with a burdensome and outdated payment rule that jeopardizes reimbursement.

“Our rural hospitals have been on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19, providing lifesaving care to our most vulnerable and underserved communities,” said Rep. Sewell. “Tragically, many of these same hospitals have been struggling to keep their doors open, putting at risk the well-being of rural communities in Alabama’s 7th District and across this nation. With our bipartisan Critical Access Hospital Relief Act, we’re providing urgently needed relief so that hospitals can keep their doors open and focus on caring for their patients instead of complying with burdensome and outdated payment rules.”

“Health care providers have worked tirelessly over the last two years to treat patients during an unprecedented global pandemic,” said Rep. Smith, lead Republican sponsor. “The last thing hospitals need, especially facilities in rural areas that are already stretched thin, are burdensome regulations that take time away from patient care. My bipartisan bill would ensure Critical Access Hospital providers can take care of their patients without being forced to navigate a complicated and unnecessary maze of red tape.”

Critical Access Hospitals are small, remote facilities that provide 24-hour essential medical services to patients in rural communities, often serving primarily elderly and underserved populations. Critical Access Hospitals already face many unique challenges such as recruiting physicians, satisfying complicated administrative requirements with a smaller staff, and complying with numerous federal regulations not applied to larger hospitals.

Under current law, Critical Access Hospitals are required to certify at the time of admission that a patient on Medicare will not be admitted longer than 96 hours. Failure to certify could result in denial of reimbursement by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), forcing patients to travel even further for care. This requirement adds one more unnecessary burden on rural facilities, providers, and the Medicare beneficiaries who already must travel long distances for treatment and may deter many patients from seeking necessary care. While this “96-hour rule” has been temporarily waived by CMS due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it could be reinstated at any point in the future, creating uncertainty for Critical Access Hospitals and the patients they serve.

The Critical Access Hospital Relief Act repeals the 96-hour rule, alleviating a significant burden and allowing these hospitals to focus on caring for the patients they serve.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/rep-sewell-announces-millions-first-round-new-transit-funding-headed,Rep. Sewell Announces Millions from First Round of New Transit Funding Headed to Alabama Under Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,2022-02-10,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the first round of new federal transit funding under the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is heading to Alabama to strengthen public transportation systems, support transit jobs across the state, and make urgently-needed investments, including new bus and railcar acquisitions, facility upgrades and other key projects.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is continuing to deliver for Alabama!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “This transformative legislation includes the largest transit investment in American history, with billions coming to Alabama to improve reliability and support good-paying jobs. This week’s announcement of the first round of transit funding is a critical victory for our economy and I am committed to working with our state and local leaders to ensure that Alabamians feel the benefits of these investments.”

Transit systems have suffered from decades of underinvestment, causing disruptions and increasing travel times for passengers. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed by President Biden in November 2021, represents the largest-ever investment in America’s public transit. For Alabama this first round of transit funding includes:

$18,210,370 in flexible funding to help communities make transit safer and more efficient, funding new buses and rail cars, track and station repairs, and other safety initiatives.

$3,437,118 to upgrade bus fleets and repair old buses and bus facilities.

At least $2,413,467 to support transit for seniors and persons with disabilities, funding key resources such as wheelchair lifts, mobility management programs, and accessible transit vehicles.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2022/2/rep-sewell-statement-supreme-court-decision-halting-lower-court-order,Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Halting Lower Court Order Requiring Second Majority-Minority District in Alabama,2022-02-07,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court halted a lower court order requiring Alabama to redraw its congressional map to create a second majority-minority district:

“Today’s Supreme Court order is yet another blow to the fight for fair Black political representation that is at the heart of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). The ruling allows the votes of Black Alabamians to be diluted and further undermines Section 2 of the VRA.

“This order underscores the urgent need for Congress to enact my bill—the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act—which would restore much-needed federal oversight to ensure that minority voters are fairly represented. Black Alabamians deserve nothing less.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z