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/2023/12/rep-sewell-votes-for-fiscal-year-2024-national-defense-authorization-act,Rep. Sewell Votes for Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,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), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Rep. Sewell previously opposed the House bill after extreme MAGA Republicans hijacked it with amendments attacking diversity and inclusion and undermining access to reproductive health care for service members. Sewell and her Democratic colleagues successfully worked to strip these harmful provisions from the bill.

The FY24 NDAA includes a 5.2% pay raise for service members, record research funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and major investments in Alabama’s military installations. It passed the House of Representatives today by a vote of 310 to 118. Having already passed the Senate, it will now make its way to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the representative for critical military installations in Alabama, I take very seriously my responsibility to provide our service members with the tools and support they need to keep our nation safe,” said Rep. Sewell. “Though I was profoundly disappointed when extreme Republicans hijacked the previous version of this bill, I am grateful that Democrats successfully stripped out their amendments attacking diversity and reproductive health care. With these provisions removed, I was proud to continue the solemn tradition of supporting the NDAA and our national defense.”

“I am absolutely thrilled that we secured a number of key wins in this year’s NDAA including a 5.2 percent pay raise for Alabama’s 37,000 service members and a record $150 million in research funding for our nation’s HBCUs and MSIs,” continued Sewell. “The talented students, faculty, and researchers at these cherished institutions are an asset to our national security, and we must continue to invest in their success.”

Passed annually by Congress, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense (DoD) and 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.

Rep. Sewell and Congressional Democrats successfully removed Republicans’ harmful amendments eliminating the Chief Diversity Officer, limiting the discussion of race, and restricting access to reproductive health care for service women.

Rep. Sewell secured key wins in the FY24 NDAA:

Provides Record Research Funding for HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) - The NDAA includes an amendment that Rep. Sewell co-sponsored to boost research funding for HBCUs and MSIs to historic levels. In total, this year’s NDAA includes $150 million to support cutting-edge research programs at HBCUs and MSIs, $50 million more than the President’s request and $18 million more than the FY23 NDAA.

Provides a Pay Raise to Service Members - The NDAA includes a 5.2% pay raise for the over 37,000 service members in Alabama, expands eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance, and makes significant investments in military family housing and child development centers.

Blocks the Move of SPACECOM Headquarters to Colorado - The NDAA blocks money to acquire, build, plan or design a new Space Command Headquarters until after June 2024, when the DoD Inspector General and Government Accountability Office have finished reviews into the decision to keep Space Command in Colorado.

Authorizes $122 Million for Military Construction Projects in the 7th District - The NDAA authorizes $65 million for Military Family Housing at Maxwell and $57 million for a new Army Reserve Center in Birmingham.

Modernizes Alabama’s Air National Guard Facilities - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell’s amendment directing the Secretary of the Air Force to brief the Armed Services Committee on facility modernization plans for Air National Guard installations in Alabama including the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham.

Recognizes Air Force Professional Development Education at Maxwell Air Force Base - Thanks to a request submitted by Rep. Sewell, the NDAA acknowledges the important role Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base plays in training our brightest Air Force leaders, paving the way for innovative research, and advancing USAF combat operations.

Expands DoD Partnership with HBCUs - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell’s amendment to strengthen and expand partnerships between DoD and our nation’s HBCUs. The amendment directs the Air Force to brief the House Armed Services Committee on how it plans to partner with HBCUs to leverage their expertise in the areas of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and Additive Manufacturing.

Invests in New and Existing Aircraft - The NDAA authorizes $65 million for additional MH-139 helicopters for Maxwell Air Force Base and prohibits the retirement of KC-135 refueling tankers, preserving the 117th Air National Guard’s footprint.

Expands Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Programs at HBCUs - The NDAA includes a provision directing the Secretary of the Air Force to submit a report to the House Committee on Armed Services that includes an assessment of the feasibility of expanding Air Force ROTC programs at HBCUs, the cost of such an expansion to HBCUs, and the number of HBCUs that qualify for an Air Force ROTC program.

Tackles Hunger Among Military Families - The NDAA includes an amendment cosponsored by Rep. Sewell to explore the process of improving the certification process for military families accessing free- and reduced-price school meals.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/reps-sewell-and-bilirakis-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-rare-kidney-disease-patients,Reps. Sewell and Bilirakis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Rare Kidney Disease Patients,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,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. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced the New Era for Preventing End-Stage Kidney Disease Act. This important legislation will help transform the delivery of care to rare kidney disease patients by increasing community and healthcare provider awareness and education.

Each year, Medicare spends more than $84 billion providing critical care to patients with chronic kidney disease, including $36 billion on patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Unfortunately, there has been little innovation in treatment options for kidney disease patients since the 1960s when dialysis and immunosuppressants became commonplace. Earlier this year, the FDA approved the first-of-its-kind non-immunosuppressive drug therapy for the rare kidney disease IgA Nephropathy. Yet oftentimes, patients struggle to find a nephrologist well-versed in their rare conditions who can provide an accurate diagnosis and expert treatment. These treatment and diagnostic barriers, coupled with the lack of rare kidney disease awareness and education, often cause a delay in diagnosis that can result in a rapid decline in kidney function and, ultimately, kidney failure. For many rare kidney disease patients, their only options are dialysis, transplant, or death.

“Far too many people living with rare kidney disease have trouble finding specialized care providers,” said Rep. Sewell. “Increasing awareness and education is crucial to caring for rare kidney disease patients, which is why I’m so proud to introduce the New Era For Preventing End Stage Kidney Disease Act. This legislation will make critical improvements to the way patients with rare kidney disease, especially those in underserved communities, access and receive care.”

""Our life-saving legislation will help remove diagnostic and treatment barriers for many patients suffering with a rare disease,"" said Rep. Bilirakis. ""Through the establishment of Rare Kidney Disease Research Centers of Excellence and increased provider education efforts, we will empower providers to better identify the signs and symptoms of rare kidney disease, which will lead to improved treatment options and better patient outcomes.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/reps-williams-and-carter-make-good-on-chick-fil-a-wager-with-reps-sewell-and-aderholt-after-bama-sec-championship-win,Reps. Williams and Carter Make Good on Chick-fil-A Wager with Reps. Sewell and Aderholt After Bama SEC Championship Win,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,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. Nikema Williams (D-GA) and Buddy Carter (R-GA) made good on their friendly wager with Reps. Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Robert Aderholt (R-AL), treating the Alabama Congressmembers to lunch. On Saturday, the Alabama Crimson Tide won a hard-fought 27-24 victory over the Geogia Bulldogs, ending Georgia’s winning streak and subsequently securing a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff.

“Congratulations to the Tide on their 30th SEC title!” said Rep. Sewell. “I want to thank our Georgia colleagues for being good sports and donning some Alabama apparel on the House steps. Congressman Aderholt and I can confirm; Victory really does taste better with a side of chicken!”

“After Saturday’s big win, let’s see if we can find any Michigan colleagues brave enough to bet against the Tide,” continued Sewell.

Stay tuned for another possible wager when the Crimson Tide takes on the Michigan Wolverines in the College Football Playoff at the Rose Bowl on New Years Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/12/rep-sewell-honors-rosa-parks-on-the-house-floor-urges-support-for-her-rosa-parks-day-act,"Rep. Sewell Honors Rosa Parks on the House Floor, Urges Support for her Rosa Parks Day Act",2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, on the 68th anniversary of Rosa Parks’ arrest, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) spoke on the House Floor to honor the Civil Rights icon and urge her colleagues to support her bill, H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act, to designate December 1st as a federal holiday. The Rosa Parks Day Act now enjoys the support of 114 cosponsors in the House of Representatives.

A recording is available for download and broadcast purposes here. Watch on YouTube here.

Rep. Sewell: Madam Speaker, I rise today to call on all of my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act.

Today, December 1st, Americans across the nation are celebrating the legacy of Rosa Parks.

It was on December 1, 1955, when Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, for refusing to give up her seat on a city bus. This simple but bold act of resistance to segregationist Jim Crow laws inspired the historic Montgomery Bus Boycott.

For 481 days, spurred by Rosa Parks’ courage, thousands of African Americans peacefully protested the Montgomery city bus system until the United States Court ruled in Browder v. Gayle that the segregation ordinances were unconstitutional.

Rosa Parks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1996, the Congressional Gold Medal in 1999, and was the first woman to ever lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. In addition, many states, including Ohio, California, Missouri, and Oregon, already observe Rosa Parks Day at the state level.

Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of Americans to advance justice and equality. Now is the time to pass this legislation and to declare December 1st as a federal holiday and as Rosa Parks Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/reps-terri-sewell-robert-aderholt-nikema-williams-and-buddy-carter-announce-friendly-bipartisan-wager-on-uga-bama-sec-championship,"Reps. Terri Sewell, Robert Aderholt, Nikema Williams, and Buddy Carter Announce Friendly, Bipartisan Wager on UGA-Bama SEC Championship",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, ahead of Saturday’s SEC championship game between the University of Alabama and the University of Georgia, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (D-AL), Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Nikema Williams (D-GA), and Buddy Carter (R-GA) announced a friendly wager on which team will prevail on the gridiron.

When the Alabama Crimson Tide are victorious, Bama fans Reps. Terri Sewell and Robert Aderholt will enjoy Georgia’s own Chick-fil-A courtesy of Reps. Nikema Williams and Buddy Carter.

If the UGA Bulldogs manage to pull off a surprise victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide, proud fans Reps. Nikema Williams and Buddy Carter will enjoy a lunch of coveted Dreamland Bar-B-Que courtesy of Reps. Terri Sewell and Robert Aderholt.

“Our Georgia friends like to talk smack, but good luck stopping Jalen Milroe!” said Rep. Sewell. “I’m looking forward to the Tide ending Georgia’s winning streak on Saturday. Lucky for Congressman Aderholt and I, victory always tastes better with a side of chicken. The Tide is going to Roll in Atlanta!”

“Alabama and Georgia facing off in the SEC Championship, the National Championship or both, is becoming almost an annual tradition,” said Rep. Aderholt. “Something else that is a great tradition is Dreamland Barbeque. So, it’s a shame our Georgia colleagues won’t get to experience it. But I’m looking forward to that Chick-fil-A. Roll Tide!”

“The Georgia Bulldogs have feasted on every opponent for the last two seasons,"" said Rep. Williams. ""I’m ready to feast on some barbecue when the Dawgs win their fifth straight game in Atlanta–their second home. Make no mistake I win either way because I’m a lifelong ‘Bama fan but this season the Dawgs have the edge.”

“Georgia playing Alabama at the end of the football season has become a holiday tradition, as has Georgia winning the SEC Championship,” said Rep. Carter. “Everyone knows that the far superior Georgia Bulldogs already have this in the bag and I’m excited to celebrate their victory with a side of BBQ. GO DAWGS!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/ahead-of-the-68th-anniversary-of-rosa-parks-arrest-rep-sewell-leads-the-push-for-rosa-parks-federal-holiday,"Ahead of the 68th Anniversary of Rosa Parks’ Arrest, Rep. Sewell Leads the Push for Rosa Parks Federal Holiday",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, ahead of the 68th anniversary of Rosa Parks’ arrest, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) was joined by Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04), Rep. Joyce Beatty (OH-03) and members of the CBC for a press conference on Capitol Hill urging passage of her bill, H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act. The bill would make December 1st a federal holiday commemorating the arrest of Rosa Parks. The Rosa Parks Day Act was the first bill that Rep. Sewell introduced in the 118th Congress.

Watch the press conference here.

On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, for refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger on a public bus, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott and galvanizing the Civil Rights Movement.

There is currently no federal holiday honoring a woman or a Black woman.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-announces-2-1-million-hud-grant-to-expand-affordable-housing-choices-for-families-in-birmingham,Rep. Sewell Announces $2.1 Million HUD Grant to Expand Affordable Housing Choices for Families in Birmingham,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,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) announced $2,119,900 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to expand affordable housing vouchers in Birmingham. The funds, which were awarded to the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD), are designed to expand housing choices for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) families with children by increasing access to opportunity neighborhoods with high-performing schools, access to jobs, low crime rates, parks, and other amenities.

“I am thrilled to share that Birmingham has been awarded over $2.1 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development to expand affordable housing choices,” said Rep. Sewell. “That means more stability and greater economic mobility for Birmingham's children. I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in our children and families!”

This program is based on HUD's Community Choice Demonstration program that builds upon recent research that shows growing up in neighborhoods with lower poverty levels improves children's academic achievement and long-term chances of success and reduces intergenerational poverty. Children who move to low-poverty neighborhoods have also been shown to experience lower rates of hospitalizations, lower hospital spending, and some changes in mental health over the long-term follow-up. Adults given the chance to move to low-poverty neighborhoods experience reductions in obesity and diabetes.

While the HCV program currently offers families with vouchers the opportunity to live in a neighborhood of their choice (including low-poverty, opportunity neighborhoods), families with HCVs may continue to encounter barriers to using their vouchers in communities with expanded opportunities. Common barriers include the inability to save enough money for a security deposit, inadequate time to find a unit, landlord unwillingness to rent to voucher holders, or limited awareness of neighborhood amenities, such as the location of high-performing schools.

The Housing Choice Voucher Mobility Services Program will support Public Housing Agencies (PHA) in addressing barriers to accessing housing choices by offering mobility-related services to increase the number of voucher families with children living in opportunity areas. In addition to offering mobility-related services, PHAs will work together in their regions to adopt administrative policies that further enable housing mobility, increase landlord participation, and reduce barriers for families to move across PHA jurisdictions through portability.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-statement-on-8th-circuit-court-ruling-gutting-the-voting-rights-act-of-1965,Rep. Sewell Statement on 8th Circuit Court Ruling Gutting the Voting Rights Act of 1965,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,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) released the following statement regarding today’s ruling by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ gutting Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act:

“This ruling by the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals is deeply disturbing and wrong as a matter of law. If allowed to stand, it would be the death knell of the Voting Rights Act, stripping individuals and civil rights groups of their ability to fight back against voter discrimination in court. The Supreme Court must reverse this disastrous ruling without delay.

“I’m calling on Congress to immediately pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. We cannot allow extremists to strip away the remaining protections of the VRA.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/reps-sewell-miller-introduce-the-bipartisan-assistance-for-rural-community-hospitals-arch-act-on-national-rural-health-day,"Reps. Sewell, Miller Introduce the Bipartisan Assistance for Rural Community Hospitals (ARCH) Act on National Rural Health Day",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, on National Rural Health Day, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Carol Miller (WV-01) introduced H.R. 6430, the Assistance for Rural Community Hospitals(ARCH) Act. This bill would provide greater financial stability for rural hospitals by extending the Medicare-dependent hospital program and Medicare low-volume hospital payments for five years each. The bill would also require a GAO report to ensure Medicare rural hospital designations are bolstering rural health care.

“We in Alabama have seen our rural hospitals come under immense strain, threatening to make it harder for our communities to access the services they need,” said Rep. Sewell, lead Democratic sponsor. “This legislation is about providing stability to our rural hospitals so that they can keep their doors open and continue serving patients. There is no time more befitting than National Rural Health Day to shine a spotlight on the needs of our rural hospitals. I thank Congresswoman Miller for her partnership and urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this legislation.”

“Hospitals in rural communities should have access to the same resources as any other hospital to keep their doors open and administer efficient and quality care,” said Rep. Miller, lead Republican sponsor. “In the midst of rising health care prices and medical workforce shortages, the ARCH act will provide Medicare-dependent and Medicare low-volume hospitalswith much needed financial stability. I was pleased to introduce this bill on National Rural Health Day and bring awareness to the concerns rural patients and hospitals are experiencing. I am grateful to Congresswoman Sewell for joining with me on this issue as we champion rural hospitals and provide them with the support they need to serve our communities.”

Bill text can be found here.

Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-accepting-applications-for-military-service-academy-nominations-until-november-18th,Rep. Sewell Accepting Applications for Military Service Academy Nominations Until November 18th,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,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) reminded graduating seniors in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District that they have four days left to apply for a nomination to a United States military service academy.

“There is no greater act of patriotism than choosing to serve as part of our nation’s armed services, and I encourage all graduating seniors to consider pursuing an education at one of our United States military service academies,” continued Sewell. “Attending a military service academy will not only jumpstart your career in the military, but it will also offer an invaluable opportunity to develop your leadership and interpersonal skills.”

“Making these appointments is one of my most satisfying duties as a Member of Congress,” continued Sewell. “Be sure to submit your application by November 18th!”

To be considered for an appointment to a military service academy, an applicant must meet the eligibility requirements established by law and be legally domiciled within the boundaries of Alabama's 7th Congressional District. Students must complete a nomination application, which can be found on Rep. Sewell's website here.

Submissions must be received by Rep. Sewell’s Birmingham office by U.S. mail and postmarked no later than Saturday, November 18, 2023. Applications should be mailed to:

Office of Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell

Attn: Academy Nominations

Two 20th Street North, Suite 1130

Birmingham, AL 35203

For more information on military service academy nominations for 2023, visit Rep. Sewell's official website here.

Background on Service Academies

There are five service academies:

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA)

The United States Naval Academy (USNA)

The United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA)

The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA)

The United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point

Nominations are required for all but the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, to which appointments are made on the basis of their independent application process.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-votes-to-avert-government-shutdown/0aedf063-5f09-49dc-a6bc-4b57259734ee,Rep. Sewell Votes to Avert Government Shutdown,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,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) voted in favor of a Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the federal government open and protect Alabama families from the disastrous consequences of a shutdown. The CR funds the federal government at current levels through January 19th for certain agencies and February 2nd for others. It passed the House of Representatives by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 336 to 95 and will now make its way to the U.S. Senate.

“We in Congress have a responsibility to the American people to keep the government open and protect the programs that families rely on,” said Rep. Sewell. “While I have some concerns about the staggered funding deadlines, this measure prevents a shutdown and protects against the extreme cuts pushed by my colleagues across the aisle. Families in Alabama can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their Thanksgiving plans will not be affected by a government shutdown.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-announces-521-100-for-greene-county-hospital-and-nursing-home-celebrates-veterans-day-in-greene-and-pickens-counties,"Rep. Sewell Announces $521,100 for Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home, Celebrates Veterans Day in Greene and Pickens Counties",2023-11-11,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Greene County, AL — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $521,100 that she secured to make critical infrastructure improvements to the Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home. This funding is part of the $42.8 million that she secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal government funding package for local projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. Rep. Sewell also made stops in Reform and Eutaw to celebrate Veterans Day with local elected officials and community members. Every year, Sewell visits each of the 14 counties in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District.

Watch Rep. Sewell’s Veterans Day video message here. More photos and videos are available here.

“The hard-working health care professionals at the Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home provide essential care to so many here in West Alabama” said Rep. Sewell. “I am thrilled to have secured $521,100 for this facility to ensure that they can continue that critical work. This funding will help upgrade the hospital’s generators so that patients are protected in the case of a power outage. This is all about making our community safer, stronger, and more prosperous.”

Friday morning, Rep. Sewell joined Reform Mayor Melody Davis, Gordo Mayor Craig Patterson, and community members at Reform Airport to bring greetings at the Gordo Rotary Club’s 25th Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony in Pickens County. Rep. Sewell’s staff were onsite to assist individuals with federal constituent service matters.

Following the Pickens County Veterans Day Celebration, Sewell was joined by Greene County Hospital and Nursing Home CEO Dr. Marcia Pugh, Hospital Board Members, and Eutaw Mayor Latasha Johnson to announce $521,100 that she secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal government funding package to improve the hospital’s infrastructure. The funding will be used to install new generators to protect patients in the event of a power outage.

Sewell then attended the Greene County Veterans Day Street Festival where celebrated Veterans Day with local elected officials and community members and provided an update on her work in Congress.

Information about Military Service Academy Nominations

Rep. Sewell took Veterans Day as an opportunity to remind students in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District that applications to be nominated to a U.S. military service academy are due by November 18th. Each year, Rep. Sewell has the privilege of nominating a limited number of people to the U.S. Air Force (USAFA), Naval (USNA), Army at West Point (USMA), and Merchant Marine (USMMA) academies. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/reps-sewell-and-aderholt-keeping-birmingham-southern-college-open-is-what-s-best-for-alabama,Reps. Sewell and Aderholt: Keeping Birmingham-Southern College open is what’s best for Alabama,2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"AL.com: Keeping Birmingham-Southern College open is what’s best for Alabama

By U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt and U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell

Posted: Monday, November 6, 2023

Although we represent different districts and different political parties in the U.S. House of Representatives, there are times that we agree when it comes to what’s best for Alabama.

This is one of those times.

For one of us (Rep. Sewell) Birmingham-Southern College is in the district I am so honored to represent. I’ve employed numerous staffers and interns over the years who are BSC alum, including my current Legislative Aide and Chief of Staff.

For the other (Rep. Aderholt) BSC is my alma mater, as well as the place where I met my wife, Caroline, who is also a BSC graduate. And it’s where my parents went to college, too. I also have employed several staffers over the years who are BSC graduates.

So, when it comes to what is best for Alabama, we agree that keeping this 167-year-old college open and helping it achieve financial stability makes the list.

We were glad when the Alabama Legislature passed SB278, which established the Distressed Institutions of Higher Learning Revolving Loan Program. Because Alabama had a once-in-a-generation, $2.8B surplus in the Education Trust Fund, setting aside $30 million for the loan program was accomplished without reduction to state-supported institutions. This was and is a great use of a small fraction of that surplus, giving BSC the operating capital it needs while it raises private funds to restore its endowment to a level that will sustain the College going forward.

We were also glad when Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law in June, because we agree that losing BSC would be bad for Alabama in many ways.

Financially, BSC delivers $97.2 million to the state each year in economic impact and $13.8 million in taxes to state and local coffers. That adds up to $1 billion in revenue over the next decade. But once gone, it will not return. Again, receiving a loan from the state seemed the common sense thing to do, considering the economic impact on the state.

Beyond its financial value, BSC serves as an engaged partner and neighbor to the historic communities that surround it. Those communities – Graymont, College Hills, Bush Hills, Smithfield, and the area once known as Dynamite Hill – are about to receive a significant boost in federal funding that will provide new, affordable housing and will create an urban trail leading to the Civil Rights District downtown. We were proud to secure that funding for the city of Birmingham, and now cannot fathom it abutting 192 acres of empty classrooms and unoccupied residence halls.

And of course there is the intangible value of what BSC brings to our state’s educational landscape. Students and their families want choices for college – some are drawn to Alabama’s large public institutions with big football programs and Greek systems. Others prefer a more urban setting with a focus on science or technology. Some want small colleges in small towns. Some seek out HBCUs or schools grounded in their faith tradition. Some want to get away from home; others want or need to stay close. Some know what they want to study, and others need time and space to explore their options.

Alabama students deserve to have all of these choices within our state. As of today, and even with BSC’s future in question, applications for fall 2024 have surpassed 1,600 – a number not achieved until after November in the last three years. Without BSC, young people who want what BSC offers – a small, residential, nationally ranked college in a big Alabama city – will have to go elsewhere. And once they leave, they may not return.

Alabama residents make up 60 percent of BSC’s student body. Half of BSC’s 17,000 graduates remain in Alabama, where their impact is seen and felt in every walk of life in every one of our 67 counties.

We strongly urge Treasurer Boozer to rethink his decision to deny the bridge loan that was designed for this very situation: To help out a college or university in Alabama that brings significant value to its community, has been in business for more than 50 years, has assets sufficient to back the state’s loan, and has a solid plan for paying it back.

We don’t always agree on the issues in Washington, but on this we do: Keeping Birmingham-Southern College open is what’s best for Alabama’s economy, our communities, and our students.

Forward Ever!",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-co-signs-letter-to-speaker-johnson-calling-on-house-republican-leadership-to-take-action-on-gun-violence,Rep. Sewell Co-Signs Letter to Speaker Johnson Calling on House Republican Leadership to Take Action on Gun Violence,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,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) joined House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) and 115 Members of Congress in a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson calling on House Republican leadership to take action to address America’s gun violence epidemic.

“God’s children are being killed every day in our country in part because of the inaction of Republican leadership on gun violence prevention legislation. Families of every faith in America have empty chairs around the dinner table because Republicans have failed to answer our constituents’ prayers for action,” the Members wrote. “In response to the gun violence crisis, you have called for more thoughts and prayers without a commitment to taking any action to address the bloodshed.”

“The book of John says that ‘the good shepherd lays down his life’ for his flock. As Democrats, we are not asking for personal sacrifice, but simply that Republican leadership work with us to enact common sense laws that will save lives. We stand ready to work with you on any policies that will help end gun violence.”

The full letter can be found here and below.

Dear Speaker Johnson,

As House Democrats, we write about our deep concerns with your troubling comments following the devastating mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine where 18 people were killed and another 13 were injured.

Mr. Speaker, our children, God’s children, are being killed every day in our country in part because of the inaction of Republican leadership on gun violence prevention legislation. Families of every faith in America have empty chairs around the dinner table because Republicans have failed to answer our constituents’ prayers for action.

In response to the gun violence crisis, you have called for more thoughts and prayers without a commitment to taking any action to address the bloodshed. As Speaker, you were quoted as saying, “This is a dark time in America. We have a lot of problems, and we are hopeful and prayerful. Prayer is appropriate at a time like this, that this senseless violence can stop.” Additionally, during a recent interview about gun violence prevention legislation you said, “America’s problem is not guns. America’s problem is a heart problem.”

This fatalistic view of gun violence is factually wrong and paints a dark view of America and its people. First, gun violence in America is not inevitable, it is simply tolerated by Republican leadership. Second, gun violence prevention legislation is evidence-based and saves lives. In fact, the state of Louisiana has an “F” rank on the Giffords gun violence scorecard because it fails to enact universal background checks and a red flag law, has weak gun domestic violence laws, and allows assault weapons and large capacity magazines to be sold. Not surprisingly, gun deaths in Louisiana are 99 percent above the national average, second only to Mississippi.

Conversely, the states that emphasize responsible gun ownership with strong gun safety laws have the lowest rate of gun violence. Troublingly, more and more of the gun violence in those states is perpetrated by guns that flow in from states with weak gun laws. We need a stronger national floor that protects all Americans from gun violence.

Epidemic levels of gun violence are an American problem because we uniquely allow people who are a danger to themselves or others easy access to firearms. The gun homicide rate in America is 26 times that of other high-income countries. It is outrageous to insinuate that Americans have 26 times the mental health challenges or our fellow Americans’ hearts are 26 times more troubled than our international peers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/11/rep-sewell-statement-on-partisan-republican-israeli-supplemental,Rep. Sewell Statement on Partisan Republican Israeli Supplemental,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,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 House Republicans’ partisan Israeli supplemental funding package:

“While I fully support assistance to Israel, the partisan bill that House Republicans pushed through provides no assistance to Ukraine, blocks humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, and includes billions in tax giveaways to the rich. I am disappointed that my Republican colleagues have taken an otherwise bipartisan priority—supporting our national security and our allies—and turned it into a bitter partisan battle. This bill is dead on arrival in the Senate and undercuts the bipartisan efforts by the White House and the Senate to pass a comprehensive aid package that includes funding for both Israel and Ukraine and provides humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. I look forward to supporting this legislation which is in line with President Biden’s original funding request that would holistically support our national security efforts.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-statement-on-election-of-rep-mike-johnson-as-speaker-of-the-house,Rep. Sewell Statement on Election of Rep. Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,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) released the following statement regarding the election of Rep. Mike Johnson (LA-04) as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

“While I am grateful that House Republicans have finally ended their stalemate and selected a new House Speaker, I am gravely disappointed that my colleagues across the aisle have rejected our calls for bipartisanship and empowered yet another MAGA extremist.

“I have very serious concerns about Mike Johnson’s record, namely his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, his hostility toward our hard-fought rights and freedoms, and his work to slash Social Security and Medicare.

“I will work with Speaker Johnson where we can agree but make no mistake; when it comes to protecting our democracy, our freedoms, and the programs that Americans rely on, I will not back down.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-votes-in-favor-of-bipartisan-resolution-standing-with-israel,Rep. Sewell Votes in Favor of Bipartisan Resolution Standing with Israel,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,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) voted in favor of H.Res. 771, a bipartisan resolution standing with Israel as it defends itself against the brutal terrorist attack launched by Hamas and other terrorists and condemning Hamas’ war against Israel. The resolution passed in the House of Representatives by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 412 to 10.

“I condemn Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel in the strongest possible terms,” said Rep. Sewell. “With this bipartisan resolution, my colleagues and I are sending a strong message that the United States stands steadfast with Israel and its right to defend itself.”

“Both Israelis and Palestinians deserve equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity, and dignity,” continued Sewell. “I have long supported a two-state solution that would help build a bridge toward a more sustainable future in the region. The U.S. must exercise its leadership to foster a peaceful coexistence between Israel and its neighbors.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-announces-1-6-million-in-public-infrastructure-and-workforce-investments-from-the-delta-regional-authority-for-black-belt-communities,Rep. Sewell Announces $1.6 Million in Public Infrastructure and Workforce Investments from the Delta Regional Authority for Black Belt Communities,2023-10-24,2023,2023-10,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 $1.6 million from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) for six projects in Alabama’s Black Belt. These new investment projects will improve basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, and support business development and job training. Funding was awarded through the State’s Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP) and was made available, in part, by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“As a proud daughter of the Black Belt, I have made it a top priority to ensure that those living and working in the region get their fair share of federal resources and funding,” said Rep. Sewell. “These awards from the Delta Regional Authority will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment by bringing jobs and infrastructure upgrades directly to communities that need them most. As the only Member of Congress from Alabama to vote for President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I’m very excited to see this funding coming to our communities and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued focus on equity.”

The following projects in Alabama’s Black Belt received SEDAP funding:

The Cultural and Communal Living Cynosure project in Selma, Alabama, has been awarded $200,000 to increase the success and well-being of residents in distressed communities.

The Jackson Pellets Industrial Access Road project in Jackson, Alabama, has been awarded more than $357,000 to construct a 3,100-foot industrial access road to the Jackson Pellets facility.

The Selma Tourism Incubator project in Selma, Alabama, has been awarded $509,000 to develop an Innovative Tourism Hub in Selma’s historic downtown.

The Town of Hurtsboro Storm Water Collection System Improvement project in Hurtsboro, Alabama, has been awarded more than $387,000 to repair a storm water collection system to reduce localized flooding.

The Town of Butler Highway 17 South project in Butler, Alabama, has been awarded more than $189,000 to correct water main issues and install a fire hydrant on Alabama Highway 17 South.

The Eufaula-Bluff City Water and Sewer project in Eufaula, Alabama has been awarded more than $43,000 for sewer, water, and stormwater improvements.

The DRA was established in 2000 as a formal framework for joint federal-state collaboration to promote and encourage the economic development of the lower Mississippi River and Alabama Black Belt regions. To fulfill this purpose, DRA invests in projects supporting transportation infrastructure, basic public infrastructure, workforce training, and business development. DRA’s region encompasses 252 counties and parishes in parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee.

“The States’ Economic Development Assistance Program is one of DRA’s most diverse tools that allows us to expand and invest in the resiliency of the region’s public infrastructure and workforce,” said DRA Federal Co-Chairman, Dr. Corey Wiggins. “As a result of this investment, nearly 6,000 families will have improved access to infrastructure, helping to improve their quality of life and increase economic opportunities in their communities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-announces-designation-of-birmingham-as-a-federal-tech-hub-by-the-biden-harris-administration,Rep. Sewell Announces Designation of Birmingham as a Federal Tech Hub by the Biden-Harris Administration,2023-10-23,2023,2023-10,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) announced that Birmingham has been designated as one of 31 Regional Innovation and Technology Hubs (Tech Hubs) by the Biden-Harris Administration through the Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration. These Tech Hubs will catalyze investment in technologies critical to economic growth, national security, and job creation, and will help communities across the country become centers of innovation critical to American competitiveness. The Birmingham Biotechnology Hub will work to increase representation in clinical data and improve pharmaceutical development, and will now be eligible to compete for up to $75 million in additional funding. The Tech Hubs program was authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act which passed Congress with Rep. Sewell’s support and was signed by President Biden in August 2022.

“Birmingham is leading the nation and the world in the biotechnology sector and we are absolutely thrilled that the Biden-Harris Administration has designated it as a Tech Hub,” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “Not only will this designation further strengthen Birmingham’s position as a center for innovation, but it will also bring numerous jobs, resources, and opportunities to the people of our city. This is a great example of how President Biden’s CHIPS and Science Act is supercharging America’s competitiveness in science and technology, and we in Birmingham are excited to be a part of it!”

The Birmingham Biotechnology Hub, a consortium led by Southern Research Institute, will apply artificial intelligence-driven biotechnology to increase representation in clinical genomic data and clinical trials. Leveraging the region’s existing assets, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s data bank, the Birmingham Biotechnology Hub will utilize artificial intelligence trained with inclusive patient data to shorten the drug development pipeline and deliver affordable drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics that treat a diverse global patient population.

This designation is part of the first phase of the novel Tech Hubs program, authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, that will invest directly in high-potential U.S. regions and aim to transform them into globally competitive innovation centers. Designation is an endorsement of the region’s strategy to supercharge their respective technological industry to create jobs and strengthen U.S. economic and national security. Designated Tech Hubs are now eligible to apply for the next phase of the Tech Hubs Program that will invest between $50-$75 million in each of 5-10 Designated Hubs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-announces-38-million-from-the-department-of-justice-to-fight-crime-and-make-alabama-communities-safer,Rep. Sewell Announces $38+ Million from the Department of Justice to Fight Crime and Make Alabama Communities Safer,2023-10-11,2023,2023-10,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 more than $38 million in federal funding from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) to fight crime and make Alabama communities safer. This comprehensive investment is part of a nationwide push to prevent and reduce crime by providing federal resources to combat gun violence, sex trafficking, substance abuse, and violence against women and children.

“Making our communities safer for our children and families has always been a top priority of mine,” said Rep. Sewell. “This $38 million from the Department of Justice will go a long way in doing just that. Together, these grants will ensure that our community organizations, local law enforcement, and especially our rural police departments have the tools they need to break the cycle of violence, prevent crime, strengthen police accountability, and save lives. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to keep Alabamians safe.”

Rep. Sewell announced the following DOJ grants for Alabama:

Bessemer, Birmingham, and Jefferson County

$1,998,001 - Office of Justice Programs Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative - The City of Birmingham will use this funding to expand the Jefferson County Family Resource Center RESTORE pilot, which provides wraparound reentry services for court-involved youth.

$1,600,000 - Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Site-base Program - This funding will allow Jefferson County to expand evidence-based substance use treatment and peer recovery support services.

$412,728 - Edward Byrne JAG Program - The City of Birmingham Police Department will use this funding to enhance public safety and security.

$749,998 - Opioid Affected Youth Initiative - The UAB Department of Psychiatry - Substance Abuse Division will use this funding for the Family Wellness BEYOND project, which is designed to help families impacted by substance use.

$900,000 - Second Chance Act Improving Reentry Education and Employment Outcomes - The Dannon Project is using this funding to expand its A Chance for Everyone (ACER) Program, which provides pre- and post-release services to 150 men and women who are incarcerated at the time of annulment and scheduled to return to documented high-poverty and high-crime areas of Birmingham and Jefferson County.

$2,000,000 - National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative - The Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office will use this funding to support a multidisciplinary response to sexual assault.

$784,194 - Second Chance Act Youth Reentry Program - The Offender Alumni Association will use this funding to implement the OAA Credible Messenger Youth Reentry Initiative.

$406,200 - Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Response - This funding will be used by the Bessemer Police Department in collaboration with mental health professionals to implement co-response teams (CRT), allowing for individuals in crisis to access proper mental health services and avoid negative interactions with the police.

$62,963 - Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - The Bessemer Police Department will use this funding to recruit officers through traditional and innovative strategies.

Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa County

$64,207 - Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - This funding will be used by the disparate jurisdictions of the City of Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa County for equipment that will support crime prevention and violence reduction.

$259,810 - Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program - The City of Tuscaloosa will use this funding to design and implement the Tuscaloosa Mental Health Court Initiative.

$20,000 - Body-worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program to Support Law Enforcement Agencies - The Northport Police Department will expand its Body Worn Camera Program with this funding.

$1,249,636 - Preventing School Violence: BJA’s STOP School Violence Program - The University of Alabama (UA) is partnering with the University of Alabama/University of West Alabama Regional Inservice Education Center to implement the BAMASTOP Program in high schools in rural counties including Choctaw, Greene, Marengo, and Sumter counties. This program uses university-community partnerships to train and educate school personnel, families, and students to prevent and reduce student violence and improve school climate.

Selma and Dallas County

$26,834 - Edward Byrne JAG Program - The City of Selma will use this funding to tackle gang violence, gun violence, and drugs through the use of overtime for off-duty police officers.

$300,000 - Rural and Small Department Violent Crime Reduction Program - The Dallas County Commission will use this funding to implement the District Attorney’s Violent Crime Reduction Program.

$764,508 - Family-Based Alternative Justice Program - The Dallas County Commission will implement the Dallas County Family Preservation Program with this funding.

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA)

$20,429,574 - Victim of Crimes Act (VOCA) Victim Assistance Formula Grant - This program helps provide direct assistance to crime victims, with priority going to victims of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault and population groups who have been previously underserved.

$2,675,267 - Office on Violence Against Women STOP Formula Grant Program - This program, authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), is used to develop and strengthen law enforcement, prosecution, and court strategies to combat violent crimes against women and to develop and strengthen victim services, including community-based, culturally specific services, in cases involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

$4,059,847 - Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program - The Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Program is the primary provider of federal criminal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. ADECA is currently accepting applications for local law enforcement equipment purchases and the application is available here.

$931,749 - Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners Program - This funding will be used to help Alabama inmates with substance abuse prevention and treatment.

$152,995 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program - This project is designed to enhance community safety by preventing violent gun and gang crime in Jefferson, Tuscaloosa, Greene, Pickens, Sumter, and other Alabama counties in the Northern District of Alabama. These grants are administered by ADECA at the discretion of the United States Attorney’s offices.

$83,604 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program - This funding will be used to combat violent crime in Montgomery, Lowndes, and other Alabama counties in the Middle District. These grants are administered by ADECA at the discretion of the United States Attorney’s offices.

$77,001 - Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program - This funding will be used by the Southern District of Alabama to combat violent crime in Hale, Perry, Dallas, Marengo, Choctaw, Clark, Wilcox, and other counties in the Southern District. These grants are administered by ADECA at the discretion of the United States Attorney’s offices.

$325,591 - Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program - This funding will be used by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences to improve their capabilities to combat the opioid epidemic.

Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)

$74,808 - State Justice Statistics Program for Statistical Analysis Centers - ALEA will use this funding to improve the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS).

$502,933 - Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) Invited to Apply Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force - ALEA will use this funding to maintain, expand, and improve the Alabama ICAC Task Force’s effectiveness in preventing, interdicting, investigating, and prosecuting internet crimes against children.

$1,738,956 - National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NCIS) Act Record Improvement Program

$2,000,000 - National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP)

State of Alabama - Miscellaneous Agencies and Organizations

$108,001 - John R. Justice (JRJ) Formula Grant Program - Alabama will use this funding to recruit and retain prosecutors and public defenders.

$491,000 - VOCA Victim Compensation Formula Grant - This grant award provides funds to the Crime Victims Compensation Commission from the Crime Victims Fund to enhance State Victim Compensation payments to eligible crime victims.

$1,868,756 - Adult Treatment Court Site-Based - This funding will be used by the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts (AOC) to implement the MIDAS Treatment Court Data Project, which will help create individualized treatment plans for people arrested for minor drug and alcohol offenses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-adoption-of-a-fair-alabama-congressional-map,Rep. Sewell Statement on the Adoption of a Fair Alabama Congressional Map,2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,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) released the following statement on the adoption of a fair Alabama congressional map:

“After numerous hearings, three Supreme Court rulings, and unprecedented defiance by state officials, the voters of Alabama finally have a fair congressional map!

“While we celebrate this historic victory, the continued resistance that we face from state officials should not be lost on anyone. This long and arduous battle over Alabama’s congressional map serves as a solemn reminder that efforts to deny fair representation to Black and minority voters are still alive and well.

“Now more than ever, we must restore the FULL protections of the Voting Rights Act. We need the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and we need it now.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/10/rep-sewell-statement-on-decision-by-house-republicans-to-remove-speaker-kevin-mccarthy,Rep. Sewell Statement on Decision by House Republicans to Remove Speaker Kevin McCarthy,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,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) released the following statement regarding passage of House Republicans’ Motion to Vacate the Chair, removing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. This is the first time in U.S. history that a sitting speaker has been voted to be removed.

“This is a sad and unprecedented day for America. Government works best when we have two functioning political parties that are willing to put people over politics. What is clear is that House Republicans are divided among themselves and have unleashed chaos, dysfunction, and extremism at every turn.

“My Democratic colleagues and I remain willing to find common ground, but it is up to House Republicans to end this GOP civil war.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-votes-to-avert-government-shutdown,Rep. Sewell Votes to Avert Government Shutdown,2023-09-30,2023,2023-09,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 in favor of a bipartisan Continuing Resolution (CR) to avert a government shutdown. The CR would extend federal government funding at current levels for 45 days. Notably, it includes $16 billion in disaster relief funding. The measure passed in the House of Representatives by a bipartisan vote of 335-91.

“While I remain frustrated that my Republican colleagues have brought us to the brink of a costly and devastating government shutdown, I am grateful that Speaker McCarthy has finally chosen to work with Democrats at the last minute to extend government funding,” said Rep. Sewell. “While this measure is not perfect, it avoids deep cuts that House Republicans attempted to push through earlier this week and provides critical disaster relief funding that communities in Alabama depend on.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-votes-against-extreme-republican-cuts,Rep. Sewell Votes Against Extreme Republican Cuts,2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"House Republicans’ Continuing Resolution included massive cuts to cancer research, public education, food assistance, and home energy assistance

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted against House Republicans’ extreme Continuing Resolution (CR) which would have made massive, 30 percent across-the-board cuts to programs that Alabamians rely on including cancer research, public education, food assistance, and more. Notably, the extreme CR included an unprecedented 74 percent cut to home energy assistance for low-income Americans. The measure failed after 21 Republicans joined Democrats in voting against it.

“We are one day away from a government shutdown, and rather than working with Democrats, House Republicans are fighting amongst themselves and demanding extreme cuts to public education, Head Start programs, cancer research and so much more,” said Rep. Sewell. “This is not a serious proposal. I implore my Republican colleagues to come to the table and work with us to keep the government open. The American people are counting on us!”

House Republicans’ extreme CR would have:

Slashed investments in the National Institutes of Health (NIH): Medical research into treatments and cures for diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease would be cut with the reduction of 7,000 research grants.

Furthered their goal of eliminating public education by cutting funding for Title I, IDEA, and Head Start: Cuts to Title I and IDEA would be the equivalent of removing nearly 150,000 teachers and service providers from classrooms serving low-income students and students with disabilities. And approximately 275,000 children would lose access to Head Start, undermining early education for children in low-income communities and parents’ ability to go to work.

Decimated the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as temperatures begin to drop: In an unprecedented move, House Republicans have cut LIHEAP funding by roughly 74 percent. More than 5 million low-income households would lose their home heating or cooling benefits or have their benefits cut by hundreds of dollars — threatening their ability to heat their homes in winter or cool their homes in summer.

Failed to support communities recovering from natural disasters. In the midst of hurricane season and with several response and recovery efforts to major disasters underway, this bill harms FEMA’s readiness by failing to address the urgent need for additional Disaster Relief Funds to address existing shortfalls and respond to future unknown disasters.

Undercut our critical allies like Israel and Ukraine: Cuts to Foreign Military Financing (FMF) threaten critical support for allies like Israel and Jordan. This extreme funding bill not only fails to include requested additional resources for Ukraine and surrounding partners, but it also cuts Assistance to Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia (AEECA) by 59 percent.

Defunded law enforcement: This extreme Republican funding bill would effectively reduce the numbers of FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration agents and other Federal law enforcement officers, and it would also eliminate hundreds of state and local law enforcement officer positions across the country. This will make our communities less safe, as fewer law enforcement officers will be apprehending violent fugitives, fighting fentanyl and other opioid trafficking, countering cybersecurity threats, and fighting domestic and international terrorism.

Halted Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operations including air traffic controllers: FAA operations would come to a standstill, as hiring and training of new air traffic controllers and safety inspectors would freeze, causing delays in certifying pilots, drone operators, and aircrafts and adding to the chaos of getting in and out of airports nationwide.

Closed Social Security Administration Field Offices: The Social Security Administration would be forced to close field offices and reduce access to in-person services, and people applying for disability benefits would wait additional months for processing of claims.

Neglected our water infrastructure by cutting funds to the Army Corps of Engineers: House Republicans are cutting funds to the Army Corps of Engineers Construction activities by 31 percent. With $2.7 billion slashed from the Corps of Engineers’ Construction activities, projects critical to waterway navigation of supply chains, reducing flood and storm damage, or providing ecosystem restoration would freeze.

Taken food out of the mouths of children, families, and seniors: With the sharp increase in caseload, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has barely half of the resources it needs to keep feeding people. The program needs a 32 percent increase. Instead, House Republicans are cutting it by 30 percent. Other nutrition services, such as Meals on Wheels, would also be cut for more than 1 million seniors.

Raised the costs of food by threatening food safety and supply: House Republicans are threatening public health by cutting Food Safety and Inspection Service by 30 percent. This cut makes our meat and poultry less safe to consume. Plants that produce these products provide jobs in rural communities. Without adequate federal inspection staffing, plants will be statutorily required to close or reduce operating hours, thus hurting workers’ paychecks, reducing the meat and poultry supply, and raising the cost of food.

Implemented unfair trade practices to boost China: Republicans’ dangerous CR weakens the United States’ efforts to fight the unfair trade practices of the People’s Republic of China and other competitors, by reducing trade enforcement personnel at the Commerce Department, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and U.S. International Trade Commission.’

Hindered wildfire suppression efforts: As communities continue to fear the next deadly wildfire, House Republicans are cutting Wildfire Suppression by 57 percent, a $2.4 billion cut.

Hurt America’s small businesses: The Small Business Administration (SBA), Entrepreneurial Development Programs would be cut by 30 percent. This means approximately 400,000 fewer small businesses would be assisted. This would have a significant impact on underserved communities such as Veterans, Women, and Native American entrepreneurs.

Slashed resources for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Opioid Use Disorder treatment: The Republican CR cuts funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by 38 percent. More than 1 million people facing a suicidal or mental health crisis would be unable to access support services through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and tens of thousands of individuals would be denied admission to opioid use disorder treatment, denying them a potentially life-saving path to recovery.

Upended public safety, education, and other investments in Tribal communities: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) serves 574 federally recognized Tribes in areas such as social services and Indian child welfare, reservation roads, energy development, Tribal public safety, justice, law enforcement, and other fundamental services that have been historically underfunded. In this bill, House Republicans are cutting the BIA by 30 percent, slashing resources for education programs, school repairs, and facility construction projects. Professional staff, principals, and school administrators would all be at risk of losing their jobs.

Curtailed mineral and energy development impacting jobs and local economies: A reduction of 30 percent would impact onshore oil and gas operations and inspections for the roughly 34,400 Federal onshore oil and gas leases and the roughly 30,000 inspections done across 32 States. This would increase public safety and health risks and delay work needed to maintain oil and gas programs. It would also derail permitting for energy and other infrastructure and renewable energy projects bringing the associated jobs and economic growth to a standstill.

Cut loans and grants for farmers and rural communities: House Republicans are making it harder for farmers to access loans and grants making farm ownership more difficult. They are also cutting Rural Housing Service and Rural Utility Service programs that support single family home loans, rental assistance, water and waste programs, electric resources, and access to broadband.

Eliminated health care services for rural and underserved families: More than 2 million vulnerable individuals and families, including rural and underserved populations, would lose access to health care services through Community Health Centers.

Find information about the impact of a Republican government shutdown on Alabama here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-highlights-how-a-republican-government-shutdown-would-harm-families-in-alabama,Rep. Sewell Highlights How a Republican Government Shutdown Would Harm Families in Alabama,2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"A Republican shutdown would hurt working families, interrupt vital services, damage our economy, endanger our national security, and force millions of troops and government employees to work without pay

Washington D.C. – With just three days remaining until a potential extreme Republican government shutdown, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) warned that House Republicans are risking serious consequences for Alabama families.

“Alabama families shouldn’t be forced to pay the price for House Republicans’ inability to govern,” said Rep Sewell. “A Republican government shutdown would force troops to work without pay, harm small businesses, risk air travel disruptions, and endanger access to food assistance for families. It is unconscionable that House Republicans would hurt working families, damage our economy, and endanger our national security.”

“I will continue to do everything in my power to keep the government open and protect the programs that Alabamians rely on,” continued Sewell. “It’s time for House Republicans to do their jobs, put American families first, and stop charging towards a government shutdown.”

According to new data released by House Budget Committee Minority, a Republican government shutdown would:

Force troops to serve without pay: 38,017 active duty and reserve personnel serving our nation's armed forces in Alabama would be forced to go without the pay they earn during a shutdown.

Hurt Alabama small businesses: The Small Business Administration would stop processing small business loans, halting a program that provides $284,694,700 in funding to small businesses in Alabama every year.

Disrupt air travel: 4,797 people flying through Alabama airports every day would face potential delays and safety concerns due to staffing impacts on TSA agents and air traffic controllers.

Cut off food assistance for Alabama children and families: 111,999 people in Alabama would soon lose access to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. 772,813 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries in Alabama would lose access to benefits in a prolonged shutdown.

Hurt federal workers: 46,826 federal workers in Alabama would be furloughed or forced to work without pay, in addition to the many employees of businesses with government contracts who could be laid off, furloughed, or see their hours cut.

Jeopardize food and drug safety: Workers at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would be sidelined, risking interruptions and delays to the 224 food safety, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other inspections conducted in Alabama last year.

Hurt rural Alabamians’ ability to secure housing loans: The Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing housing loans, which provide $545,442,546 in funding to help 3,049 families in rural Alabama communities buy homes every year.

Hurt Alabama farmers: The Department of Agriculture would be forced to stop processing farm loans which provide $93,451,000 in funding for farmers in Alabama every year.

Close National Parks: 1,294,952 people who visit national parks in Alabama every year would be turned away or unable to fully access parks, monuments, and museums.

Put vulnerable families at risk: State governments would be forced to pay for federal services like the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, potentially risking benefits for the 12,888 TANF beneficiaries in Alabama.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-announces-23-8-million-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-address-blocked-crossings-and-improve-rail-infrastructure-and-safety-in-alabama-s-7th-district,Rep. Sewell Announces $23.8 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Address Blocked Crossings and Improve Rail Infrastructure and Safety in Alabama’s 7th District,2023-09-25,2023,2023-09,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) announced $23.8 million from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and improve rail infrastructure and safety in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. Funding comes from the Consolidated Rail and Infrastructure Safety and Improvements (CRISI) grant program through the U.S Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The City of Birmingham has been awarded an $8 million to alleviate dangerous blocked railroad crossings and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has been awarded $15.8 million for track and bridge improvements in the Black Belt and Central Alabama. Rep. Sewell was the only member of Alabama’s Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Today marks a major step forward in our fight against blocked railroad crossings in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “This funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents a critical part of our long-term strategy to alleviate blocked railroad crossings and will go a long way in improving the quality of life for those living in and around Birmingham. Securing this funding was truly a team effort, and I want to thank the City of Birmingham and our local leaders for their hard work in developing such a strong proposal and Norfolk Southern for their significant financial commitment to this project. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to address blocked railroad crossings.”

“I want to thank the Alabama Department of Transportation for their work putting together this proposal,” continued Sewell. “We know that the Black Belt is in dire need of infrastructure investments and this project will make a big difference!”

“It’s hard not to get a little emotional thinking about what this will mean for the residents of this area. This is an opportunity to drastically improve the quality of life for so many of my neighbors,” said Birmingham City Councilor Darrell O’Quinn. “I’d like to take a moment and thank our partners at Norfolk Southern, who own the rail corridor in question. They have been a tremendous partner in moving this initiative forward and will be committing $1.5 million in funding to this initial planning and engineering grant. It’s the largest financial commitment they’ve made to a project of this type, ever. My office has remained in close contact with their representatives over the last several years and we could not have gotten to this point without their dedication to improve the lives of those living near their tracks.”

In Birmingham, the $8 million CRISI grant will target two segments of Norfolk Southern’s railway line and will help develop plans for various track, bridge, signal and road realignments to reduce blocked crossings and improve community safety and access to schools and residential areas, including the roads leading in and out of Harris Homes. This will include grade separations and the closure of multiple crossings and will also have a positive impact on the freight and passenger rail operations in the city.

In the Black Belt, the $15.8 million CRISI grant will go to ALDOT for final design and construction activities to complete various track-related and bridge improvements on two short-line rail lines within the state, the Eastern Alabama Railway (EARY) and Meridian & Bigbee Railroad (MNBR). The project will improve system and service performance by increasing maximum allowable speeds on both rail corridors, enhancing storage capacity, and improving safety.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/on-national-voter-registration-day-rep-sewell-and-house-democrats-introduce-the-john-r-lewis-voting-rights-advancement-act,"On National Voter Registration Day, Rep. Sewell and House Democrats Introduce the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act",2023-09-19,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy against attacks by MAGA extremists

Washington, D.C. – Today, on National Voter Registration Day, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), Ranking Member of House Administration Committee Subcommittee on Elections, led every House Democrat in introducing H.R. 14, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. The bill would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the full protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). Ten years ago, the Supreme Court gutted the VRA and unleashed a wave of discriminatory state laws targeting voters and restricting voting access. By restoring the VRA’s authority, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would prevent such laws from taking effect in states and localities with a recent history of voter discrimination.

“Generations of Americans—many in my hometown of Selma, Alabama—marched, fought, and even died for the equal right of all Americans to vote,” said Rep. Terri Sewell, lead sponsor. “But today, their legacy and our very democracy are under attack as MAGA extremists target voters with new laws to restrict voting access. Ten years after the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the fight for voting rights has never been more urgent. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the protections of the Voting Rights Act. It would prevent restrictive, discriminatory voting laws from taking effect and ensure every eligible American can have their vote cast and counted.”

For decades, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) prevented states and localities with a history of voter discrimination from restricting voting access by requiring such jurisdictions to preclear new election laws with the Department of Justice or a U.S. District Court. However, in its disastrous 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court gutted the law and struck down the formula used to determine which jurisdictions are subject to federal oversight. In July 2021, the Court further weakened the law in its decision in Brnovich v. DNC, making it more difficult to challenge discriminatory voting laws under Section 2.

In the decade since the Supreme Court gutted the VRA, state legislators have advanced hundreds of new restrictive, discriminatory voting laws targeting minorities, young adults, and the elderly. Among other restrictions, these laws have closed polling stations, curbed early voting and voting by mail, imposed strict identification requirements, limited multi-lingual voting materials, and made it harder to register to vote. In 2023, state legislators passed a near-record number of new restrictive voting laws, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Named for the late Congressman and civil rights icon, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would protect the right to vote and safeguard our democracy by restoring and modernizing the full protections of the VRA. The bill would establish a new, modern-day framework to determine which states and localities have a recent history of discrimination and require such jurisdictions to preclear new election changes, preventing restrictive and discriminatory voting laws from taking effect. The bill also restores Section 2 of the VRA by eliminating the heightened standard required to challenge discriminatory voting laws created by the Supreme Court in Brnovich v. DNC.

“The right to vote is sacred, it is central to the very integrity of our democracy,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. “Unfortunately, extreme MAGA Republicans have decided that the only way they can win elections is to engage in massive voter suppression. It’s unconscionable, it’s unacceptable and un-American. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act will help ensure that every American has access to the ballot box so we can crush this epidemic of voter suppression once and for all.”

“Nearly sixty years after John Lewis marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the sacred right to vote is still under threat. Since the January 6th attack, MAGA extremists have introduced hundreds of voter suppression bills in state legislatures — all to strengthen their power at the expense of the American people,” said House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “Today, Democrats are reintroducing the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, under the steadfast leadership of Congresswoman Terri Sewell. This legislation will preserve and protect our nation’s greatest treasure of free and fair elections for all. This is a call to action for Congressional Republicans: do you stand with Americans in the fight for democracy, or against us?”

“The right to vote is a sacred cornerstone of our democracy. My dear friend John Lewis recognized this and dedicated his life to expanding access to the ballot box. I’m proud to continue the fight and honor his memory by joining Rep. Sewell in reintroducing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,” said Assistant House Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn. “We have a moral obligation to make this country’s greatness accessible and affordable for all Americans; fundamental to that mission is including all Americans in our great democracy. Congressional Democrats will always remain committed to this cause and urge our Republican colleagues to reconsider their partisan opposition to protecting the franchise.”

“The right to vote is the bedrock of our American democracy, and it is under threat. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, together with the Freedom to Vote Act, will restore those protections, strengthen our democracy, and ensure every eligible voter has their voice heard,” said Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joseph Morelle. “I’m a son of Rochester, New York, the home of two passionate and inspiring voting rights advocates, Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony. Today, we honor their legacy, and the legacy of Congressman John Lewis, and continue the fight to help bring America closer to its foundational promise.”

“Voting rights are under renewed and sustained assault across the country and we must pass this bill now to restore the promise of the Voting Rights Act,” said House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler. “After a series of troubling Supreme Court rulings, which have enabled voter suppression efforts by states and localities, the need for a revitalized Voting Rights Act has never been greater. I hope Congress will honor the sacrifices of those who marched, struggled, and even died to secure the right to vote and will rediscover the bipartisan spirit that once animated our work to protect the rights of all Americans to vote.”

“As we speak, extreme MAGA Republicans at the local, state, and national levels are running the table with every tactic in their arsenal to keep Black voters from the ballot box. These efforts are coordinated and well-funded and they are targeting our communities with precision,” said Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford. “Protecting Americans’ access to democracy should not be a partisan issue, and yet, time and again we have seen Republicans walk away from the formerly bipartisan commitment of ensuring access to the ballot box for all. The CBC is calling on Republicans to work with Democrats to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and to put people over politics.”

“After the devastating Shelby v. Holder Supreme Court decision gutting key components of the Voting Rights Act a decade ago, certain states have criminalized individuals and groups assisting with voter registration, and withdrawn or denied the use of multilingual ballots and translators at the polls,” said Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Chairwoman Judy Chu. “These shameless voter disenfranchisement tactics especially hurt those in the AANHPI community—over a third of whom are limited English proficient and need multilingual support to exercise their right to vote. These and other voter suppression efforts like aggressive gerrymandering, restrictive voter ID laws, polling location closures, and restrictions on early voting weaken our democracy by limiting who can make their voices heard. That is why Congress must do its job and pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to protect and strengthen the right of all Americans—regardless of race, age, or language proficiency—to vote and have a say in our democracy.”

“As states across the country ramp up their enactment of voter suppression laws, we must put in place a new framework for voting protections and voter empowerment that safeguards every American’s ability to participate in our democracy,” said Rep. John Sarbanes, Co- Chair of the Task Force on Strengthening Democracy. “I am proud to honor the sacrifices my colleague and friend, Congressman John Lewis, and the other brave foot soldiers of the Civil Rights Movement made 58 years ago by joining in the introduction of this legislation to strengthen every voter’s access to the ballot box, regardless of their zip code, and build a democracy that uplifts the voices of all Americans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-speaks-on-the-house-floor-to-commemorate-the-60th-anniversary-of-the-16th-street-baptist-church-bombing,Rep. Sewell Speaks on the House Floor to Commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing,2023-09-13,2023,2023-09,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 House Floor to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and honor the lives of the Four Little Girls killed in the attack.

A recording is available for broadcast purposes here. Rep. Sewell’s remarks are transcribed below:

Rep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963, and to honor the lives and legacies of Four Little Girls killed in such a heinous attack.

60 years ago, as parishioners of the 16th Street Baptist Church prepared for Sunday service, 19 sticks of dynamite placed by Ku Klux Klan members exploded. As the interior of the walls of the church caved in, over 100 churchgoers rushed for safety. Though most of the congregation escaped, under the debris lay the bodies of Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley, as well Sarah Collins Rudolph who was injured but ultimately survived.

Tragically, the brutality did not stop after the bombing. When African American communities across the State of Alabama took to the streets to demand justice, they were met with unspeakable violence at the hands of law enforcement. Within a few hours, Johnny Robinson and Virgil Ware, ages 16 and 13, were killed in clashes between protesters and the police.

Despite the horrific nature of this attack, it took over 34 years before the perpetrators faced justice.

In 2013, Mr. Speaker, I was honored that my very first bill I passed in this body awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor we can give, to the Four Little Girls posthumously to ensure that their lives were never forgotten.

While we will never recover the lives lost or the injuries suffered, we know that their sacrifice was not in vain.

Indeed, the loss of the Four Little Girls changed America forever, bringing into clarity our nation’s storied history of racially motivated violence and galvanized the Civil Rights Movement.

It was their memory that inspired generations of freedom fighters to build a world where the color of your skin does not determine the value of your life.

It was their memory that burned in the minds of the Foot Soldiers as they fought to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

And it was their sacrifice that brought our nation closer to realizing its highest ideals of equality and justice for all.

Without the influence of the Four Little Girls, I not only question where America would be, but where I would be. 60 years after their passing, I get to walk the halls of Congress as Alabama’s first Black Congresswoman. I do so because of their sacrifice and because they cannot.

Their premature and senseless death serves as a constant reminder that every battle, every gain in the fight for civil rights has come at a high cost, paid for by the sacrifice of others.

Yet despite their gains and our gains as a nation, we know that our work is far from over. Today, as extremists seek to rewrite our history and roll back our progress, it has never been more crucial to ensure that the legacy of the Four Little Girls lives on in American history.

After all, those who don’t learn from their history are doomed to repeat it.

In the words of Coretta Scott King, ""struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won. It’s earned and won in every generation.""

I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the lives of the Four Little Girls and remembering them by name: Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Morris Wesley.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/9/rep-sewell-statement-on-federal-court-decision-striking-down-alabama-state-legislature-s-2023-congressional-map-and-appointing-a-special-master,Rep. Sewell Statement on Federal Court Decision Striking Down Alabama State Legislature’s 2023 Congressional Map and Appointing a Special Master,2023-09-05,2023,2023-09,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) released the following statement regarding the decision by a federal court to strike down the Alabama State Legislature’s 2023 redistricting plan and direct a special master to redraw Alabama’s congressional map:

“Today’s decision is yet another victory for Black voters in Alabama and for the promise of fair representation. By appointing a special master to fairly redraw Alabama’s congressional map, the court has rejected the state legislature’s latest attempt to dilute the voices and voting power of African Americans all across our state.

“While we were outraged by the Alabama State Legislature’s open defiance of the Supreme Court’s original order to create two majority-minority districts, I am nonetheless grateful that a federal court has now intervened to protect the voices of Alabama’s Black voters.

“The Voting Rights Act of 1965 is indeed alive and enforceable!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/rep-sewell-celebrates-one-year-anniversary-of-the-landmark-inflation-reduction-act,Rep. Sewell Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of the Landmark Inflation Reduction Act,2023-08-16,2023,2023-08,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 (AL-07) celebrated the one-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, landmark legislation which continues to deliver for Alabama families. Over the last twelve months, the investments in the Inflation Reduction Act have lowered costs for Alabamians while creating new jobs, combating climate change, advancing environmental justice, and reducing the deficit—all without a penny in new taxes for Americans making under $400,000. Rep. Sewell was the only member of Alabama’s congressional delegation to vote in favor of the bill.

“One year ago, President Biden signed into law a historic piece of legislation that is bringing down costs for Alabama families, growing the middle class with new clean energy and manufacturing jobs, and making the largest investment to fight climate change in our nation’s history,” said Rep. Sewell. “I was proud to be the only member of the Alabama delegation to vote in favor of the Inflation Reduction Act, and I’m even prouder today as it continues to deliver for our families, our communities, and our planet. We’re already seeing the investments from the Inflation Reduction Act lay the foundation for decades of economic growth and cost savings, and soon our provisions to cap prescription drug costs will provide even more breathing room for Alabama families.”

Many of the Inflation Reduction Act’s responsible, pro-growth policies are already at work for Alabamians right now, with even more progress on the way:

Lowering costs for families:

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, the 31,000 people who signed up for a marketplace plan in Alabama’s 7th District are saving an average of $740 on their health care premiums this year.

Caps insulin prices for seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries at $35/month, saving about 3,800 people in Alabama’s 7th District who use insulin an average of $400 annually.

An estimated 367,000 Alabamians will save an average of $360 on prescription drugs every year when the $2,000 cap on annual out-of-pocket pharmacy costs for Americans with Medicare goes into effect in 2025.

Allows Medicare to finally negotiate prescription drug prices starting in 2026, slashing prices and saving taxpayers nearly $100 billion over the next 8 years.

Unleashes the power of cleaner, cheaper energy to save families hundreds of dollarson their energy bills every year and provides thousands of dollars in discounts to help families upgrade to more efficient appliances and vehicles.

Growing the middle class:

Delivers a clean energy future, with over 170,000 new jobs and $278 billion in new investments already announced in 44 states, including 400 clean energy jobs and $205 million in investments right here in Alabama’s 7th District.

Lays the foundation for the future of our economy with historic investments in clean energy and American manufacturing that are projected to create millions of jobs and reduce carbon pollution by 40 percent by 2030.

Gives more Americans a path to the middle class by expanding workforce training and registered apprenticeship programs to create good-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree.

Promoting tax fairness and reducing the deficit:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/rep-sewell-joins-congressional-black-caucus-institute-in-birmingham-for-democracy-for-the-people-tour,Rep. Sewell Joins Congressional Black Caucus Institute in Birmingham for “Democracy For the People” Tour,2023-08-09,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Birmingham, AL – On Friday, August 4, 2023, U.S. Rep Terri Sewell (AL-07) welcomed Congressional Black Caucus Institute (CBCI) and Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04) to Birmingham, Alabama, for the continuation of the CBCI’s “Democracy For The People” nationwide tour. Rep. Sewell and Chairman Horsford joined a comprehensive organizer training before hosting a town hall and panel discussion on the most pressing matters of democracy and racial equity in America.

Photos and videos of the visit are available here. A recording of the press conference is available here.

On Friday morning, the CBCI hosted a mobilizer training session to educate participants on effective community mobilization, grassroots efforts, and impactful communication techniques to drive social change.

Following the training, Rep. Sewell and Chairman Horsford hosted a panel discussion with Miles College President Bobbie Knight, Lawson State Community College President Cynthia Anthony, Interim Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Planning and Initiatives at Alabama A&M University Jackie Robinson, III, Community Activist Dee Reed, and Birmingham Urban League President and CEO William Barnes. The conversation was moderated by award-winning journalist Roland Martin and focused on pressing issues of democracy and racial equity, including attacks on Black history, the erosion of affirmative action, the state of voting rights, and the critical role of HBCUs in shaping our path forward.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/rep-sewell-chairman-horsford-and-congressional-black-caucus-statement-on-amicus-brief-objecting-to-alabama-congressional-map,"Rep. Sewell, Chairman Horsford, and Congressional Black Caucus Statement on Amicus Brief Objecting to Alabama Congressional Map",2023-08-08,2023,2023-08,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), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement regarding the amicus brief filed by the CBC in the Northern District of Alabama:

“In defiance of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Allen v. Milligan, the Republican-controlled Alabama State Legislature has yet to redraw its congressional district map to include a second majority Black district—falling far beneath the goal set by the highest court in the land. Instead of creating a second district where Black voters would have an opportunity to elect a Black-preferred candidate in compliance with the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, the Alabama State Legislature chose to again put forth a map that robs Black voters of their fundamental rights at the ballot box.

“Therefore, the Congressional Black Caucus filed an amicus brief in the United States District Court in the Northern District of Alabama objecting to the newly enacted congressional district map because we will not stand by and allow improper, racially discriminatory maps to stand without challenge.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/8/reps-sewell-smith-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-access-to-home-health-care-services,"Reps. Sewell, Smith Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Access to Home Health Care Services",2023-08-07,2023,2023-08,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 Adrian Smith (NE-03) introduced the Preserving Access to Home Health Act of 2023. 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.

“Home health services are a lifeline for so many Alabama seniors and people with disabilities, allowing patients to receive the treatment they need in the comfort of their own homes,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am very concerned about the impact that proposed cuts to Medicare’s home health program would have on these patients and their families. It is imperative that we prevent such cuts from taking effect, which is why I’m introducing the Preserving Access to Home Health Act in the House of Representatives. I want to thank Rep. Smith for his collaboration in this bipartisan effort, and I urge my colleagues to join us.”

“Home health can lower the cost of care for patients and help hospitals to safely transition patients back to home living,” said Rep. Adrian Smith. “I have serious concerns these planned cuts to Medicare would result in worse outcomes for seniors and higher costs burdens in the long run. This bill would halt the counterproductive payment cuts and increase transparency in Medicare payment policy calculations. I thank my Senate colleagues and Rep. Sewell for their collaboration on this bill.”

Home health care allows approximately 3.5 million Medicare beneficiaries 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 became even more essential during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

In June, Medicare announced plans to implement cuts totaling -9.36% to its home healthcare program starting in 2024, on top of the 3.9% cut that began in 2023. These new cuts could total up to $20 billion over the next 10 years and could make it harder for patients to leave the hospital and go home with care that helps them recover and rehabilitate.

The Preserving Access to Home Health Act would address the deep cuts made to home health that began this year and will continue until at least 2028. The legislation:

Restricts CMS from making any cuts to home health.

Requires MedPAC, which advises Congress on payment policy, to gain a full understanding of the economics of the home healthcare system, including how the Medicare program, the Medicaid program, and the Medicare Advantage program all contribute to a system.

“Patients leaving the hospital need a smooth transition home but are finding it increasingly difficult to find Medicare home health providers, signaling an immediate need for Congress to intervene and block Medicare from making such strident cuts to home health again this year,” said Joanne Cunningham, CEO of the Partnership for Quality Home Healthcare. “Data suggest that Medicare’s continued cuts to home health are restricting patient access to the safest and lowest-cost care setting following a hospital stay.”

“The Medicare home health community strongly supports this legislation and thanks Representatives Sewell and Smith for their leadership on a Medicare issue that truly threatens access to care for the more than 3 million beneficiaries who rely on this care,” said William A. Dombi, President of the National Association for Home Care & Hospice. “The home health community calls on Congress to ensure the stability that patients and providers urgently need. Since Medicare has again proposed deep cuts to home health in 2024, Congress must act to protect the care their constituents prefer and want.”

“We commend Congresswoman Sewell for her commitment to home health and for leading this bipartisan legislation to help ensure Medicare’s invaluable home health care services are available when patients need them most,” said Barbara Jacobsmeyer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Enhabit Home Health & Hospice. “Congresswoman Sewell has been a true champion for home health issues during her time in Congress, and she understands how home health helps patients and families transition from hospital to home with compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether patients are recovering from surgery or managing a chronic illness or recent injury, Medicare home health is an essential part of the care continuum. We are grateful for the support from the Congresswoman and look forward to working with others in Congress to help protect Medicare’s home health benefit.”

Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate on June 22.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-statement-on-decision-to-keep-u-s-space-command-headquarters-in-colorado,Rep. Sewell Statement on Decision to Keep U.S. Space Command Headquarters in Colorado,2023-07-31,2023,2023-07,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) released the following statement regarding the decision to keep U.S. Space Command Headquarters in Colorado.

“This Administration’s decision to keep Space Command in Colorado bows to the whims of politics over merit. Huntsville’s merits won this selection process fair and square. In three separate reports, Huntsville reigned victorious, whereas Colorado did not come in second or even third. This reversal is as shameful as it is disappointing.

I expected more from the Biden Administration. A decision of this magnitude should not be about red states versus blue states, but rather what is best for our national security.

To be clear, the Alabama Congressional Delegation stands united in opposition to this decision.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-announces-employer-line-up-for-12th-annual-job-fair-in-montgomery,Rep. Sewell Announces Employer Line-up for 12th Annual Job Fair in Montgomery,2023-07-27,2023,2023-07,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) announced the line-up of employers for her 12th Annual Job Fair, which will take place at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama on Wednesday, August 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. CDT. This year’s event will feature over 90 employers from 10 industries. Rep. Sewell’s largest constituent event of the year, the annual Job Fair connects job-seekers to employers across Alabama and reflects her commitment to bringing opportunities directly to her constituents.

“One of my top priorities in Congress is creating an environment for job growth, wage growth, and a better future for Alabama families,” said Rep. Sewell. “That’s why my annual job fair is one of the most important events we host all year.”

“This year, I’m thrilled to be bringing our job fair back to Montgomery, Alabama.” continued Sewell. “This event is about bringing opportunities directly to my constituents and empowering them with the tools they need to get ahead. I encourage anyone looking for a job or a new opportunity to join us for an exciting day!”

This year’s job fair will feature over 80 employers from 10 industries. Confirmed employers include:

Automotive

Honda Alabama Auto Plant

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama

Lear Corporation

Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc.

Mobis Alabama, LLC.

Seoyon E-Hwa

Banking

H&R Block

Regions Bank

Education

Alabama Community College System

Alabama State University

Aletheia House- Jobs for Veterans

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc

Black Belt Community Foundation

Trenholm State Community College

Wallace Community College Selma

Food Mgt/Hospitality

Gulf Allstate Beverage Company

McDonald's | Murphy Family Restaurants

Waffle House

Wind Creek

WALMART STORES INC

Governmental Agency

AIDT

AL Dept. of Youth Services

Alabama ABC Board

Alabama Army National Guard

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 Public Health

Alabama Department of Revenue

Alabama Forestry Commission

City of Selma Personnel Department

City of Tuscaloosa

Edmundite Missions

FCI Aliceville

FCI Talladega

Federal Prison Camp Montgomery

Jefferson County Commission

Montgomery City-County Personnel

Montgomery Job Corps Center

NAVY RECRUITING MONTGOMERY

Personnel Board of Jefferson County

Selma Army Recruiting Station

State of Alabama Personnel Department

The University of Alabama

U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)

United States Air Force Reserve

US Small Business Administration - Alabama District Office

USDA Food and Nutrition Service

Healthcare

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama

Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Montgomery

Five Horizons Health Services

The Wellness Coalition

UAB Medicine

Vaughan Regional Medical Center

Whitfield Regional Hospital

Law Enforcement/Fire Rescue

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)

Legal Services Alabama

Mac Sims Butler Detention Facility

Montgomery Police Department

Presidential Security

Selma Fire Department

Selma Police Department

Production

Alabama Catfish LLC

Austal USA

Big Lots Distribution Center

Brasfield & Gorrie

Bush Hog

DAS NA

GD Copper USA

Hyundai Glovis USA

Hyundai Power Transformers

Ingalls Shipbuilding

International Paper

Premier Tech

SPM, LLC

US Foods, Inc

Wayne-Sanderson Farms

Staffing Agency

ATOZ Staffing

GLOBAL TEAM STAFFING, LLC

Onin Staffing

Express Employment Professionals

Transportation/Utilities

Alabama Power Company

Bradley Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Buffalo Rock

Coca Cola United

CSX

Hodges Warehouse + Logistics

Norfolk Southern

SDAC

UPS

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.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-joins-hud-secretary-fudge-mayor-woodfin-and-community-leaders-to-announce-50-million-choice-neighborhoods-grant-to-revitalize-smithfield-college-hills-and-graymont,"Rep. Sewell Joins HUD Secretary Fudge, Mayor Woodfin, and Community Leaders to Announce $50 Million Choice Neighborhoods Grant",2023-07-26,2023,2023-07,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 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia L. Fudge to Birmingham, Alabama to announce a $50 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) Grant to revitalize the Smithfield, College Hills, and Graymont neighborhoods. At a press conference Wednesday morning, Rep. Sewell joined Secretary Fudge, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD) President and CEO Dontrelle Young-Foster, and community members to celebrate the historic funding which will be used to construct nearly one thousand mixed-income affordable housing units.

“This is a truly exciting and historic day for the City of Birmingham!” said Rep. Sewell. “With this monumental $50 million grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, we will be able to revitalize the historic Smithfield, College Hills, and Graymont neighborhoods with new, affordable housing units. Not only will this project allow residents to Iive more comfortably and affordably, but it will attract millions in new investments. I want to thank Mayor Woodfin, the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District, and the Birmingham City Council for their collaboration on this important project. We are so grateful to Secretary Fudge for traveling to Birmingham and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to pour into our communities.”

“This investment represents HUD’s commitment to creating new housing for Birmingham residents and communities across the country,” said HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “When we envision the future of public housing investment, we think of programs like Choice Neighborhoods. These awards promote the innovative collaboration needed to tackle the affordable housing crisis. A community-driven, whole-of-government approach to neighborhood revitalization is what leads to impactful changes in the neighborhoods that need it the most.”

The funding awarded today is part of a $370 million nationwide investment by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Department of Housing and Urban Development. HABD received the maximum possible award under the Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant Program which helps revitalize and transform distressed public and/or assisted housing and neighborhoods across the country, while also providing residents with services focused on income, health, and education.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-applauds-house-passage-of-the-securing-growth-and-robust-leadership-in-american-aviation-act-to-reauthorize-the-faa,Rep. Sewell Applauds House Passage of the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act to Reauthorize the FAA,2023-07-20,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"The bill will promote public safety and maintain American leadership in aviation

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) voted to pass the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for five years. The bill will maintain American leadership in aviation safety and aerospace innovation, strengthen and diversify the U.S. aviation workforce, make groundbreaking investments in sustainability and resiliency, and improve consumer protections and accessibility. It passed in the House of Representatives on Thursday by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 351-69.

“Millions of Americans depend on the Federal Aviation Administration for safe and reliable air travel,” said Rep. Sewell. “With this strong, bipartisan legislation, Congress is ensuring that the FAA can continue that essential mission while fostering innovation and providing additional protections for airline passengers. I am particularly excited that this bill authorizes funding to recruit workers from underrepresented communities so that we can build a more diverse and inclusive aviation workforce. I was proud to vote in favor of this bill and thrilled to see it pass the House today!”

The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act will:

Maintain America’s Gold Standard in Safety:

America’s aviation system is the safest in the world and the FAA reauthorization will continue to prioritize the safety of the flying public, the aviation workforce, and communities.

Key provisions will expand ground surveillance at airports to help prevent runway incursions, update evacuation standards for commercial planes, and create a task force on preventing assaults against flight crews.

Foster Innovation:

To preserve America’s competitive edge in aviation and deliver for the American people, this bill will create the regulatory environment for innovative companies to develop and deploy emerging technologies.

Communities can look forward to drones helping first responders to fight wildfires and advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft improving mobility while reducing carbon and noise pollution.

Strengthen and Diversify the U.S. Aviation Workforce:

To ensure our aviation workforce can compete globally in the evolving aviation sector, this bill triples FAA’s aviation workforce development funding to $45 million a year, expanding our talent pipeline of pilots, maintenance technicians, and aviation manufacturing workers among other critical professions.

Crucially, it funds efforts to recruit and retain people from underrepresented communities in the aviation industry.

Expand Consumer Protections and Accessibility:

Consumers deserve reliable air travel, whether that means being reimbursed for costs incurred due to flight disruptions or having peace of mind while traveling with a wheelchair or mobility aid.

The FAA reauthorization protects consumers from mass cancellations and delays by requiring airlines to plan for reimbursements for hotels and meal costs. It also works to allow young families to sit together at no extra cost.

It also takes important steps to ensure safe and dignified air travel for passengers by directing airlines to create a roadmap to reduce damage to wheelchairs and improve airline personnel training to better assist these passengers.

Promote Environmental Sustainability and Resilience:

The transportation sector is the largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to the climate crisis in the U.S.

The bill accelerates the green energy transition and for the first time invests in federal airport funding for airport environmental and noise programs—an important change that will better equip airports to continue to serve communities amid the impacts of climate change.

Find a section-by-section summary here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-joins-house-and-senate-colleagues-to-introduce-the-freedom-to-vote-act,Rep. Sewell Joins House and Senate Colleagues to Introduce the Freedom to Vote Act,2023-07-18,2023,2023-07,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), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, joined her House and Senate colleagues to introduce the Freedom to Vote Act. At a press conference in the U.S. Capitol, Rep. Sewell joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD), Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), House Committee on Administration Ranking Member Joe Morelle (D-NY), and Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) to announce the introduction of the bill which will defend our democracy against relentless attacks and expand voting access so that the voices and votes of regular Americans are heard in our elections.

“It was in my hometown of Selma, Alabama where John Lewis and the Foot Soldiers shed blood on a bridge for the equal right of all Americans to vote,” said Rep. Sewell. “But today, their legacy—and democracy itself—is under attack by extremists and election deniers who are working to subvert our elections and make it harder for Americans to vote.”

“The Freedom to Vote Act protects the right to vote, supports local election workers, bans dark money, and ends partisan gerrymandering,” continued Sewell. “Together with the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which I will introduce in the coming months, it will ensure that every American can vote in secure, accessible, and transparent elections.”

The Freedom to Vote Act:

Protects and Expands Voting Access: The Freedom to Vote Act makes Election Day a public holiday. It modernizes voter registration opportunities by implementing automatic voter registration; ensures voters in all states have access to online voter registration; and ensures all voters have access to same day voter registration opportunities. It sets minimum, nationwide standards for voting opportunities by setting a uniform floor of days and hours for early voting; setting minimum standards for access to ballot drop boxes; a nationwide standard of no-excuse absentee voting; and improves delivery of election mail. It also improves access for voters with disabilities and military and overseas voters.

Prevents State Election Subversion: The Freedom to Vote Act supports election workers and establishes federal protections to insulate nonpartisan election officials who administer federal elections from undue partisan interference or control.

Combats Dark Money and Ends Gerrymandering: The Freedom to Vote Act requires super PACs, 501(c)(4) groups, and other organizations spending money in elections to disclose donors and shuts down the use of transfers between organizations to cloak the identity of contributors. It also ends partisan gerrymandering and establishes specific criteria for congressional redistricting to ensure nonpartisan redistricting.

The bill comes as MAGA extremists continue to spread misinformation about our elections, with some refusing to even accept the results. They have also passed a wave of laws restricting the freedom to vote in states across the country, while a growing flood of corporate and dark money pollute our elections and drown out the voices of regular people.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-votes-against-fiscal-year-2024-national-defense-authorization-act-following-hijacking-by-extreme-maga-republicans,Rep. Sewell Votes Against Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act Following Hijacking by Extreme MAGA Republicans,2023-07-14,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Extreme Republican amendments would undermine military readiness by attacking health care for service members and making the military less inclusive

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding her decision to vote against the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) after the bill was hijacked by extreme MAGA Republicans:

“For the past 62 years, Republicans and Democrats have come together to craft bipartisan defense authorization bills that would support our troops and strengthen our national security,” said Rep. Sewell. “But this year, rather than continuing that essential tradition, Speaker McCarthy has caved to the most extreme members of his party and allowed the radical right-wing to poison the defense bill with culture war provisions that would undermine our military readiness and harm our service members.”

“I did not take this vote lightly,” continued Sewell. “I have proudly voted in favor of the annual defense bill every year since coming to Congress. But I cannot and will not support a bill that would rip basic health care away from our service members and make bigotry and discrimination a centerpiece of our defense policy. Republicans need to stop playing politics with our national security.”

Passed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense (DoD) and 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.

Last month, Rep. Sewell voted with her Republican and Democratic colleagues to pass the NDAA out of the House Armed Services Committee after reaching an overwhelmingly bipartisan compromise. Rep. Sewell successfully secured key provisions to support Alabama’s military installations including leadership training at Maxwell Air Force Base. She also secured record funding for research at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and critical provisions to support the health and well-being of service members and their families.

On Thursday, rather than moving forward with the bipartisan version of the bill advanced by the Armed Services Committee, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy caved to the most extreme members of his party, allowing them to hijack the NDAA by forcing through hyper-partisan, culture war amendments.

MAGA Republican amendments would undermine military readiness and harm service members by:

Attacking Diversity Initiatives and Making the Military Less Inclusive: At a time when DoD faces serious recruiting challenges, particularly among Black and minority recruits, Republicans forced through six amendments attacking diversity and inclusion in our military, which would ban diversity and inclusion personnel and training.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/7/rep-sewell-to-host-12th-annual-job-fair-in-montgomery-on-august-2nd,Rep. Sewell to Host 12th Annual Job Fair in Montgomery on August 2nd,2023-07-11,2023,2023-07,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) announced that she will host her 12th Annual Job Fair at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama on Wednesday, August 2nd from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Rep. Sewell’s largest constituent event of the year, the annual job fair connects job-seekers to employers and reflects her commitment to bringing opportunities directly to her constituents.

“One of my top priorities in Congress is creating an environment for job growth, wage growth, and a better future for Alabama families,” said Rep. Sewell. “That’s why my annual job fair is one of the most important events we host all year.”

“This year, I’m thrilled to be bringing our job fair back to Montgomery, Alabama.” continued Sewell. “This event is about bringing opportunities directly to my constituents and empowering them with the tools they need to get ahead. I encourage anyone looking for a job or a new opportunity to join us for an exciting day!”

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 official website at sewell.house.gov.

This year’s event will feature employers from at least 10 industries 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. The full list of employers will be announced at a later date.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-striking-down-president-biden-s-student-loan-debt-relief-plan,Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Striking Down President Biden’s Student Loan Debt Relief Plan,2023-06-30,2023,2023-06,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 Supreme Court’s decision striking down President Biden’s plan to provide targeted student loan debt relief to borrowers:

“Today, the Supreme Court has chosen to side with Republican state officials who would rather score political points against President Biden than help hard-working Americans being crushed by student loan debt. To say that I am disappointed would be an understatement.

“In light of this terrible decision, I am calling on my colleagues in Congress to take action to combat the student debt crisis and make higher education more affordable for our students.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-ending-affirmative-action,Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Ending Affirmative Action,2023-06-29,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“For centuries, African Americans were systematically denied the opportunity to pursue a higher education and gain financial independence, leaving a painful legacy of discrimination that persists to this day. It was during my parents’ lifetime that institutions like the University of Alabama finally allowed Black students to enroll alongside their peers.

“For the past four decades, the Supreme Court has recognized the important role of affirmative action in breaking down educational barriers for Black students. After all, our entire nation benefits when talented students of diverse backgrounds get a fair shot at success. But with today’s extreme reversal, the Court has chosen to ignore our history and roll back our hard-fought progress.

“This is another solemn reminder that progress is elusive, and every generation must fight to preserve the progress of the past and advance it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-announces-historic-1-4-billion-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-expand-broadband-in-alabama,Rep. Sewell Announces Historic $1.4 Billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Expand Broadband in Alabama,2023-06-26,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Part of the single largest federal investment in high-speed internet in U.S. history

Birmingham, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that $1.4 billion from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will soon make its way to Alabama to expand access to high-speed internet. The funding—which has been allocated by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program—is part of an over $40 billion nationwide investment by the Biden-Harris Administration in America’s broadband infrastructure, the single largest federal investment in high-speed internet in our nation’s history. Rep. Sewell was the only member of the Alabama congressional delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“In our 21st century economy, access to reliable high-speed internet is not a luxury. It is a necessity,” said Rep. Sewell. “Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re devoting more resources than ever before to expanding broadband, closing the digital divide, and ensuring that every Alabamian can connect to high-speed internet. These funds will be a game-changer for our state, and I look forward to working with ADECA to ensure that they are equitably distributed to HBCUs and underserved communities, including in Birmingham and the Black Belt.”

Broadband internet is necessary for Alabamians to do their jobs, participate equally in school learning, access health care, and stay connected. Yet as of 2021, 18% of Alabama households did not have an internet subscription, and 11.5% of Alabama residents lived in areas where, under the FCC’s benchmark, there was no broadband infrastructure. The $1.4 billion in BEAD funding announced today will be used to deploy or upgrade broadband networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used to pursue eligible access-, adoption-, and equity-related uses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-allowing-the-redrawing-of-the-louisiana-congressional-map-to-add-a-second-majority-black-district,Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Allowing the Redrawing of the Louisiana Congressional Map to Add a Second Majority-Black District,2023-06-26,2023,2023-06,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 Supreme Court’s decision to allow the redrawing of Louisiana’s congressional map to add a second majority-Black district.

“This is a major victory for Black voters in Louisiana who will finally get more fair and equitable representation in Congress. It has been a matter of weeks since the Supreme Court’s Allen v. Milligan decision and its reverberations are already being felt across the nation. Whether in Alabama, Louisiana, or any other state, this decision affirms that state legislatures cannot dilute the power of Black voters who deserve fair representation in our democracy.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-announces-21-million-grant-to-support-the-birmingham-urban-trail-and-enhance-multimodal-transportation-network,Rep. Sewell Announces $21+ Million Grant to Support the Birmingham Urban Trail and Enhance Multimodal Transportation Network,2023-06-22,2023,2023-06,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) announced that the City of Birmingham has been awarded a $21,681,306 grant from the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) to support the development of the Birmingham Urban Trail and Multimodal Corridor. The funding is part of DOT’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program and will be used to enhance transportation networks and create a more walkable, bikeable, safe, connected, and livable community.

“This is such great news for the Birmingham area!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “I was so proud to help the City of Birmingham secure this $21 million grant to develop the Birmingham Urban Trail, and I know that it will go a long way in making our city more walkable, bikeable and livable. I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for making this transformational investment and for their continued partnership as we work to bring more resources and better opportunities to our communities here in Birmingham.”

Funding from today’s announcement will support the “Birmingham Civil Rights Crossroads: Reconnecting Historic Neighborhoods Through Active Mobility” project which will create an urban trail and multi-modal corridor to celebrate, honor, and revitalize the Smithfield neighborhood, the west side of Birmingham, and the Civil Rights District. It will be the spine of a growing multimodal transportation network, providing safe and equitable options via an urban trail and complete streets and creating a more walkable, bikeable, safe, connected, and livable community.

Specifically, this funding will be used to redevelop approximately 2.5-miles of road with a complete streets approach, including a two-way cycle track, improved ADA access, sidewalks and other universal design elements.

Background on the RAISE Grant Program

The RAISE Grant program provides a unique opportunity for the DOT to invest in road, rail, transit and port projects that promise to achieve national objectives. Previously known as the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) and Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary Grants, Congress has dedicated nearly $12.1 billion for fourteen rounds of National Infrastructure Investments to fund projects that have a significant local or regional impact.

In each competition, DOT receives hundreds of applications to build and repair critical pieces of our freight and passenger transportation networks. The RAISE program enables DOT to examine these projects on their merits to help ensure that taxpayers are getting the highest value for every dollar invested.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-secures-key-wins-for-alabama-as-fy2024-national-defense-authorization-act-passes-out-of-armed-services-committee,Rep. Sewell Secures Key Wins for Alabama as FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act Passes out of Armed Services Committee,2023-06-22,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Sewell Secured Record Funding for HBCUs and Critical Supports for Alabama’s Military Installations in the Annual Defense Funding Package

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07), a proud member of the House Armed Services Committee, announced the inclusion of key priorities in H.R. 1282, the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Passed annually by Congress since 1961, the NDAA authorizes funding levels for the Department of Defense (DoD) and 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. Thanks to requests and amendments offered by Rep. Sewell, the NDAA supports Maxwell Air Force Base and Alabama’s Air National Guard installations, includes record funding to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and makes substantial investments in the health and well-being of our service members and their families. The FY24 NDAA was marked up by the House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday and passed out of the Committee by a bipartisan vote of 58 to 1. It will now make its way to the House Floor for a vote.

“As a proud member of the House Armed Services Committee and the representative for critical military installations in Alabama, I take very seriously my responsibility to ensure that our service members get the tools and support they need to keep our nation safe,” said Rep. Sewell. “I’m thrilled to report that this year’s NDAA includes my provisions to continue modernizing Alabama’s Air National Guard facilities and support leadership training at Maxwell Air Force Base.”

“I was also proud to help secure numerous provisions to support our nation’s HBCUs in this year’s NDAA,” continued Sewell. “Our HBCUs perform critical research and help train a talented and diverse group of students whose skills are an asset to our national security. We must ensure that their potential does not go untapped. Thanks to a series of amendments and requests that we submitted, this NDAA strengthens the partnership between our military and our HBCUs, creates a workforce pipeline for minority students, and includes a record $125 million to invest in cutting-edge research at HBCUs.”

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Sewell secured the inclusion of key priorities in the FY24 NDAA including:

Modernizing Alabama’s Air National Guard Facilities - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell’s amendment directing the Secretary of the Air Force to brief the Armed Services Committee on facility modernization plans for Air National Guard installations in Alabama including the 117th Air Refueling Wing in Birmingham.

Recognizing Air Force Professional Development Education at Maxwell Air Force Base - Thanks to a request submitted by Rep. Sewell, the NDAA acknowledges the important role Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base plays in training our brightest Air Force leaders, paving the way for innovative research, and advancing USAF combat operations.

Increasing Research Funding for HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) - The NDAA includes an amendment that Rep. Sewell co-sponsored to boost research funding for HBCUs and MSIs by $20 million. In total, this year’s NDAA includes a record $125 million to support cutting-edge research programs at HBCUs and MSIs and create workforce pipelines from minority and underserved communities.

Expanding DoD Partnership with HBCUs - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell’s amendment to strengthen and expand partnerships between DoD and our nation’s HBCUs. The amendment directs the Air Force to brief the House Armed Services Committee on how it plans to partner with HBCUs to leverage their expertise in the areas of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and Additive Manufacturing.

Expanding Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Programs at HBCUs - The NDAA includes a provision directing the Secretary of the Air Force to submit a report to the House Committee on Armed Services that includes an assessment of the feasibility of expanding Air Force ROTC programs at HBCUs, the cost of such an expansion to HBCUs, and the number of HBCUs that qualify for an Air Force ROTC program.

Combating Opioid Addiction Among Service Members - The NDAA includes Rep. Sewell’s amendment requiring the Secretary of Defense to brief Congress on DoD’s efforts to reduce opioid addiction among servicemembers and expand the use of non-opioid treatment alternatives.

Tackling Hunger Among Military Families - The NDAA includes an amendment cosponsored by Rep. Sewell to explore the process of improving the certification process for military families accessing free- and reduced-price school meals.

Combatting Breast Cancer - The NDAA includes an amendment cosponsored by Rep. Sewell requiring the Secretary of Defense to brief the Armed Services Committee on DoD’s efforts to screen for breast cancer among TRICARE beneficiaries.

As the rules-based international order continues to face threats from around the world, this year’s NDAA authorizes crucial investments in America’s global alliances and partnerships. The NDAA includes robust investments to address the challenges posed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as well as acute threats from Russia and North Korea. It supports our nation’s service members and military families with a 5.2% pay raise, ensuring we continue to invest in our military’s greatest asset—our people.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-announces-2023-congressional-app-challenge-for-alabama-s-7th-congressional-district,Rep. Sewell Announces 2023 Congressional App Challenge for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,2023-06-15,2023,2023-06,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) announced the start of the 2023 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. The competition challenges students in middle school and high school to create their own original app, and is intended to boost engagement in computer science and STEM among America’s youth. The winner for the 7th Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us. The winning app will also be eligible to be on display in the U.S. Capitol along with other winners from across the country. Submissions are due by November 1, 2023.

“Our 21st century economy is constantly evolving with the advancement of new technologies. In order to keep up with the jobs of tomorrow, it is critical that we give our students opportunities to enhance their skills in STEM and computer science,” said Rep. Sewell. “I love this challenge because it empowers our students to think big, be creative, and build something of their own. I cannot wait to see the apps that our students submit!”

Recognizing the power of STEM and computer science to foster economic growth and innovation, Congress created the CAC in 2015 to encourage students to pursue these critical skills and recognize them for their efforts. To maintain America’s competitiveness, it is crucial that the United States invests in our youth now and helps them acquire these valuable skills.

The App Challenge accepts computer programs (or apps) written in any programming language, for any platform (desktop/PC, web, mobile, raspberry Pi, etc.).

The Challenge’s submission portal is now open. Students can register and submit their applications until November 1, 2023. The competition is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of coding experience.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-joins-rep-bilirakis-in-introducing-legislation-to-ensure-timely-access-to-oral-prescription-drugs,Rep. Sewell Joins Rep. Bilirakis in Introducing Legislation to Ensure Timely Access to Oral Prescription Drugs,2023-06-13,2023,2023-06,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) joined Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) in introducing H.R. 4011, the Timely Access to Clinical Treatment (TACT) Act. This bipartisan legislation would require that patients be provided their oral drugs within an acceptable time frame.

“Undergoing treatment for a serious illness is difficult enough. No patient should also have to worry about delays in receiving potentially life-saving medication,” said Rep. Sewell. “The TACT Act is a simple, commonsense solution that would remove unnecessary roadblocks and empower doctors to get their patients the critical care that they need in a timely manner. I am proud to introduce this bill and urge my colleagues to support it.”

“This bill is about removing the red tape within our healthcare system and ensuring that patients have timely access to their medications,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis. “Doctors, not bureaucrats, best understand the needs of their patients and should be empowered with the tools needed to provide the best possible care—especially when time is of the essence.”

Patients’ access to the appropriate medically necessary treatment within a reasonable time frame is increasingly challenged by our complex health care delivery system. This is especially true for oral drugs. Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), health insurance plan sponsors, and specialty and mail order pharmacies are notorious for slowing down the process by which patients receive their oral drugs, even in cases where specialty practices can provide those drugs at the site of care via an in-house pharmacy or dispensing facility. In some cases, PBMs even disallow the drugs prescribed.

The TACT Act provides a simple solution by requiring that patients be provided their oral drugs within an acceptable time frame of 72 hours, allowing for situations—such as acquiring financial support—that are understandable and reasonable.

Specifically, the TACT Act will:

Require PBMs, plan sponsors, insurers, and contract pharmacies, including specialty and mail order pharmacies, to ensure that patients are able to receive their prescription medication within 72 hours of having the prescription submitted to the patient’s pharmacy benefit plan provider in order to ensure that there is not undo delay in the initiation of the patient’s treatment;

Allow patients who are not able to receive their prescription from a pharmacy benefit plan provider within 72 hours to seek pharmacy services and receive their prescription medication from any other duly-licensed entity that can fill the patient’s prescription and require that it be covered under the patient’s plan with full use of the patient’s applicable benefit(s);

Require pharmacy benefit plan providers receiving the prescription to confirm within 24 hours to the patient’s prescriber receipt of the prescription and the ability to fill it within the 72-hour period; and

Require that any prior authorization required by the pharmacy benefit plan provider take place in such a time that the 72-hour time limit is not exceeded.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/rep-sewell-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-upholding-the-protections-of-the-voting-rights-act-of-1965,Rep. Sewell Statement on Supreme Court Decision Upholding the Protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965,2023-06-08,2023,2023-06,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 Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the protections of the Voting Rights Act in the Allen v. Milligan case.

“This is a historic victory, not only for Black voters in Alabama, but for Democracy itself. With this decision, the Supreme Court is saying loudly and clearly that the voices of minority voters matter and that fair representation must be upheld.

“I know that John Lewis and the Foot Soldiers of the Voting Rights Movement are smiling as they look down on us. Today, their sacrifice was rewarded.

“Our work is not over. We must continue the fight for fair representation by passing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/6/reps-sewell-johnson-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-level-the-playing-field-for-american-workers,"Reps. Sewell, Johnson Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Level the Playing Field for American Workers",2023-06-07,2023,2023-06,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 Bill Johnson (OH-06), along with Reps. Frank Mrvan and (IN-01) and Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), introduced bipartisan legislation to level the playing field for American workers. H.R. 3882, the Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0, would strengthen U.S. trade remedy laws to protect American workers and combat China’s unfair, anti-free market trade practices that distort the global market. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Todd Young (R-IN).

“As a member of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, I am committed to ensuring that U.S. trade policy promotes fair competition and protects American workers against the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to manipulate the global market,” said Rep. Sewell. “Along with Congressman Bill Johnson, I am proud to be introducing the Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 which would strengthen our trade remedy laws and push back against China’s egregious and unfair trade practices. We know that if American workers are given the opportunity to compete on a fair and level playing field, they will win on the world stage!”

“China’s communist regime continues taking deliberate steps that are hurting American workers and our economy by dumping steel, aluminum, and other products on the global markets with no repercussions. That must end,” said Rep. Johnson. “This bipartisan legislation will hold China accountable for these actions by ensuring that U.S. industries and the Department of Commerce have needed tools to seek relief from China’s illegal actions. A robust domestic steel and aluminum industry is critical to creating American jobs, strengthening our economy, and protecting our national security. We can’t wait any longer to act. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to ensure this bipartisan bill becomes law.”

“Thank you to Rep. Sewell for your steadfast leadership to update U.S. trade remedy laws and combat unfair trade practices,” said Rep. Mrvan. “Every effort must be taken to ensure that American workers can compete on a level playing field and thrive in our global economy. I look forward to continuing to work with all of my colleagues to advance this critical legislation to support the ability of all American workers to grow our economy and provide for our national security.”

“The Chinese Communist Party routinely ignores established trading rules and aggressively works to cheat the system in an attempt to shut American workers and manufacturers out of the global market,” said Rep. Van Duyne. “I appreciate Reps. Sewell and Johnson for their leadership on this important issue, and I look forward to continuing our bipartisan work to stand up to the CCP’s unfair trade practices.”

The Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 combats many of China’s most egregious practices, such as:

Country Hopping to Escape U.S. Trade Remedies - After all the work of winning an anti-dumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) case, relief can be temporary as foreign producers move their factories to other countries to evade the AD/CVD orders. This legislation creates a new successive AD/CVD investigation to combat repeat offenders by making it easier for petitioners to bring new cases when production moves to another country. It also expedites timelines for successive investigations and factors for the International Trade Commission to consider about the relationship between recently completed trade cases and successive trade cases for the same imported product.

Belt and Road Initiative Subsidies - Currently, the Department of Commerce can only consider subsidies provided by the government under investigation. However, with the expansion of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, China is beginning to subsidize production in countries outside of China. This legislation would give Commerce the authority to apply CVD law to subsidies provided by a government to a company operating in a different country.

Circumventing U.S. Law - This legislation imposes statutory requirements for anti-circumvention inquiries to clarify the process and timeline. It also specifies the deadlines for preliminary and final determinations, which currently lack statutory deadlines.

The Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 enjoys strong support from the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), the United Steelworkers (USW), and steel manufacturers in Alabama.

“By strengthening the effectiveness of the U.S. trade laws, this bill will help give the American public confidence that their government has every tool available to fight for a level playing field for the American steel industry and our workers,” said Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute. “We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Johnson and Sewell in once again spearheading the fight to crack down on unfair trade and help preserve American jobs, competitiveness and cleaner American steel.”

“It has been eight years since Congress has updated our trade laws, and Representatives Terri Sewell and Bill Johnson have introduced the Leveling the Playing Field Act 2.0 to provide a much-needed refresh,” said United Steelworkers President Tom Conway. “The legislation will make U.S. trade laws more responsive to China’s foreign investments, which then dump product into the U.S. market. The bill also improves the process for follow-up on trade investigations, meaning U.S. workers and manufacturers can quickly move to stop unfair trade, wherever it comes from. USW endorses this bill and urges the House of Representatives to move quickly to pass it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-votes-to-prevent-devastating-default,Rep. Sewell Votes to Prevent Devastating Default,2023-05-31,2023,2023-05,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) voted to pass H.R. 3746, the Bipartisan Budget Agreement, to prevent a devastating default while rejecting Republicans’ extreme demands to make deep cuts to programs that Alabama families rely on. The agreement, negotiated by President Biden, protects against cuts to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, veterans’ health care, historic infrastructure and climate investments, and the 40 million borrowers in President Biden’s student debt relief plan. It also prevents Republicans from manufacturing a similar crisis in the next two years by suspending the debt limit until January 1, 2025. The bill passed the House Wednesday night by a vote of 314-117 and now heads to the Senate.

Watch Rep. Sewell’s remarks here.

“House Republicans could have passed a clean bill to address the debt ceiling months ago, but instead chose to hold the American people hostage and bring our economy to the brink of crisis in order to advance their extreme agenda,” said Rep. Sewell.

“To be clear, this bill is far from perfect,” continued Sewell. “But it prevents a default. It prevents future efforts to hold this nation hostage for the rest of the 118th Congress, and it prevents cruel Republican cuts. This budget agreement that President Biden negotiated protects funding for education, health care, veterans’ benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Most importantly, it prevents Republicans from forcing a devastating default that would kill countless jobs in my district and destroy our economy.”

“I join in expressing my frustration with the crisis that my Republican colleagues have manufactured. The American people deserve better than a Republican Majority that chooses to govern crisis-by-crisis.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-3-1-million-in-funding-from-the-national-park-service-to-preserve-historic-civil-rights-sites-in-alabama,Rep. Sewell Announces $3.1 Million in Funding from the National Park Service to Preserve Historic Civil Rights Sites in Alabama,2023-05-26,2023,2023-05,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 $3.1 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. Each year, Sewell leads the congressional effort to increase funding for the NPS African American Civil Rights Grant Program to preserve America’s Civil Rights sites and HBCUs.

“As the Representative of Alabama’s Civil Rights district, I take seriously my responsibility to ensure that we preserve the living legacy of the Civil Rights Movement,” said Rep. Sewell. “Each year, I’m proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Grant Program to ensure that America’s civil rights history lives on. This $3.1 million is a big win for the State of Alabama and will help ensure that faces and places of the Movement are never forgotten!""

NPS has awarded the following grants, which total $3,149,900, for historic sites in Alabama:

$74,800 to the City of Anniston for Story Mapping and Formalization of Operations and Maintenance for the Anniston Civil Rights Trail

$750,000 to the Historic Bethel Baptist Church Community Restoration Fund in Birmingham for historic preservation

$750,000 to the St. Paul United Methodist Church in Birmingham for preservation and restoration

$750,000 to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in Montgomery for repair and rehabilitation

$75,000 to the Alabama Historical Commission in Montgomery for the Freedom Rides Museum Vintage Greyhound Bus Virtual Reality Experience

$750,000 to the Alabama Historical Commission in Montgomery for rehabilitation of the second floor of the Moore Building

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 and authorized at $150 million per year through 2023, the HPF has provided more than $2 billion in historic preservation grants to states, Tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. For fiscal year 2023, $24 million will be available for African American Civil Rights grants in the summer of 2023.

“The National Park Service is proud to award this grant funding to our state and local government, and nonprofit partners to help them?recognize places and stories related to the African American experience,” said NPS Director Chuck Sams.“ Since 2016, the African American Civil Rights program has provided over $100 million to document, protect, and celebrate the places, people and stories of one of the greatest struggles in American history.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-2-4-million-to-support-remote-air-traffic-control-academy-at-craig-field-in-selma,Rep. Sewell Announces $2.4 Million to Support Remote Air Traffic Control Academy at Craig Field in Selma,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,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 the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $2.4 million to the Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority in Selma, Alabama, for building renovations needed to support the remote air traffic control academy. The project will renovate two buildings at Craig Field to provide classroom and dormitory space for the academy. This EDA investment will be matched with $609,420 in local funds and is expected to create 119 jobs and generate $7 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“This is wonderful news!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “This $2.4 million grant from the Economic Development Administration is estimated to bring 119 new jobs and millions of dollars in additional investments to our region. I thank the Biden-Harris Administration for their continued partnership as we work to bring more resources and opportunities to our communities.”

“This is great news for Craig Field, Dallas County, and Selma Alabama,” said James “Jim” Corrigan, Executive Director of Craig Field. “This grant enables us to complete the renovation of the air traffic control academy and remote tower center and begin renovations on a 3 story, 76 room dormitory to house students who will train as air traffic controllers, mechanics, and pilots. We thank the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Planning Commission and the EDA for their efforts in helping us obtain this grant.”

“President Biden is making sure communities like Selma, Alabama have the resources they need to grow their local economies,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment will revitalize the Craig Field Airport & Industrial Authority and help to establish a modern, remote air traffic control training facility that will boost the region’s workforce and create new economic opportunity.”

“The Economic Development Administration is pleased to support the remote air traffic control academy at Craig Field,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “The renovated facilities will provide the classroom and living space the academy needs to train the next generation of air traffic control professionals.”

This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission (ATRC). EDA funds ATRC 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.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-speaks-on-the-house-floor-to-demand-that-republicans-return-and-prevent-devastating-default,Rep. Sewell Speaks on the House Floor to Demand that Republicans Return and Prevent Devastating Default,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"As Republicans leave town with our economy on the brink, Rep. Sewell demands that we pay America’s bills

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined her Democratic colleagues on the House Floor to demand that the Republican majority do their jobs and pay America’s bills to avoid a devastating debt default.

“Let me be very clear. We as Members of Congress have a solemn obligation to pay our nation’s bills and to protect the full faith and credit of the United States,” said Rep. Sewell. “We have never defaulted on our debt. But this time, House Republicans are refusing to address the debt limit unless we make serious cuts to programs that Alabama families that I represent need most, like veterans benefits and food assistance for our seniors and children.”

“Madam Speaker, this is a manufactured crisis,” continued Sewell. “Republicans could pass a clean debt ceiling bill but chose not to… But today, Republicans have chosen to send us home instead of doing our job. Our job is to protect the American people and to make sure that the full faith and credit of the American government stands.”

View her remarks here.

House Republicans created this crisis and then rushed out of town for the long weekend, days away from a catastrophic default on our debt that will cost families dearly. According to estimates from the House Budget Committee Minority, a Republican default would:

Kill about 6,000 jobs in Alabama’s 7th District alone. Nationwide, a default could kill more than 7 million jobs.

Jeopardize Social Security payments for 101,000 families in Alabama’s 7th District.

Put health benefits at risk for 306,000 people in Alabama’s 7th District who rely on Medicare, Medicaid, or Veterans Affairs health coverage.

Increase lifetime mortgage costs by $43,000 for the typical homeowner in Alabama.

Raise the costs of a new car loan by $800 for the typical American

Threaten the retirement savings of 91,400 people near retirement in Alabama’s 7th District, eliminating $20,000 from the typical retirement portfolio.

Democrats are united to pay America’s bills without political stunts. Rep. Sewell has signed on to legislation that allows a bipartisan solution that prevents default and saves our economy. If five House Republicans sign the same legislation, the crisis can be ended immediately.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-honors-selma-mayor-george-p-evans-on-the-house-floor,Rep. Sewell Honors Selma Mayor George P. Evans on the House Floor,2023-05-24,2023,2023-05,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) honored Selma Mayor George P. Evans on the Floor of the House of Representatives. Mayor Evans passed away at the age of 78 on May 15, 2023.

Rep. Sewell’s remarks can be viewedhere and are transcribed below.

Rep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of a trailblazing public servant and educator, Selma Mayor George Patrick Evans, who passed away at the age of 78 on May 15th.

A native of Selma, Alabama, Mayor Evans overcame great adversity to break down barriers for generations of leaders like myself to follow.

An educator, coach, basketball referee, principal, superintendent, city council president, and mayor, Evans wore many hats, but the common thread was service. He loved our hometown of Selma, Alabama, and he served her well.

He dedicated over 40 years to the Dallas County Public School System, cultivating an impactful career molding, teaching, coaching, mentoring the youth of Selma and Dallas County.

In 1994, he made history again as the first African American Superintendent of Dallas County Public Schools.

He began his career in electoral politics in the Selma City Council. In this role, he brought the same passion, love of people, and community, making history as the first African American President of the Selma City Council.

In 2008, he earned more distinctions as the second African American Mayor of the City of Selma, Alabama, in its 192-year history. During his two terms as Selma’s Mayor, Evans led Queen City through the recession of 2008, the implementation of the city’s optic fiber network, and helped address the lingering impact of segregation within Selma’s communities. I was proud to partner with Mayor Evans to bring vital federal resources home to Selma and Dallas County.

From his demonstrated efforts to revitalize downtown Selma to his commitment to making our community safer and stronger, Mayor Evans fought hard to improve the lives of the people he served. His foresight propelled the City of Selma forward and cemented his legacy as a trusted leader in our community.

On a personal note, I have known Mayor Evans all my life. I even served as his family’s babysitter during my youth.

Mayor Evans has always been a man of great character and honor, whose love of God, family, and community has been his guiding principle.

Through all of his accomplishments, he has led by example through his hard work, perseverance, grit, and kindness.

His public service has left an indelible imprint on the City of Selma, and we will miss him terribly.

Let us not weep, but find comfort in knowing that his incredible legacy will live on in the many people he touched.

On behalf of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Selma’s Mayor George Patrick Evans for his decades of service to the City of Selma, Dallas County, and the entire State of Alabama.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/reps-sewell-ferguson-introduce-bipartisan-save-rural-hospitals-act,"Reps. Sewell, Ferguson Introduce Bipartisan Save Rural Hospitals Act",2023-05-24,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Drew Ferguson (GA-03), introduced the Save Rural Hospitals Act of 2023. This legislation would help curb the alarming trend of hospital closures in rural communities by ensuring that rural hospitals are fairly reimbursed by Medicare.

“All across Alabama, we’ve seen the devastating impact of rural hospital closures which only accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rep. Sewell. “It is unacceptable that so many Alabamians are being forced to drive hours to receive life-saving care. With this bipartisan legislation, we’re taking action to help keep rural hospitals open by ensuring that they are fairly reimbursed for the critical services they provide. I’m proud to join Congressman Ferguson in this effort and urge my colleagues to join us!”

“Rural hospitals play an essential role in serving their communities and providing vital care to patients,” said Rep. Ferguson. “Georgia has one of the lowest reimbursement rates nationwide, and the Save Rural Hospitals Act would help put rural hospitals in the Peach State – and across the country – on a level playing field by raising their Medicare reimbursement levels. I am proud to work with Representative Sewell on this bipartisan legislation.”

In the U.S., rural hospitals are closing at an alarming rate with more than 194 rural hospitals having closed since 2005. During the COVID-19 pandemic, rural hospital closures accelerated to record levels. In February, the Alabama Hospital Association warned that more than a dozen of the state's rural hospitals are at immediate risk of closing. Low patient volumes and significant financial strain are often the primary factors in these closures, compounded by the flawed Medicare Area Wage Index that results in rural hospitals receiving disproportionately low reimbursement rates.

The Save Rural Hospitals Act would establish an appropriate national minimum (0.85) for the Medicare Area Wage Index to ensure that rural hospitals receive adequate payment for the care they provide, while preserving the existing reimbursements for urban hospitals. This legislation would also help ensure fairness in reimbursements for hospitals across the country—including the many hospitals that are facing closures in rural areas—and fix severe and disproportionate disadvantages that unfairly penalize hundreds of communities and hospitals across the country.

“We applaud Congresswoman Sewell's steadfast priority for initiatives that strengthen access to health care for the most vulnerable citizens in Alabama,” said Danne Howard, Deputy Director of the Alabama Hospital Association. “The Save Rural Hospitals Act will help address the decades-old flaw in the Medicare reimbursement methodology that has negatively impacted Alabama hospitals more than in any state in our nation. Our hospitals have survived on reserves, cost-cutting measures, staff reductions, and eliminating services. Those options are counter to the mission of Alabama's hospitals in providing quality care to their communities. The compounded impact of the Medicare disparity has created pressures that are unsustainable. Our options have been exhausted. If nothing changes, more hospitals across our state will be forced to make difficult decisions about their future operations, the services and the jobs they support. Rural America has experienced more than 100 hospital closures since 2010, and many continue to face limited or no access to specialty care. The Save Rural Hospitals Act will ensure that Alabamians have equal access to care and are not disadvantaged for living in a majority rural state.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-winner-of-the-2023-congressional-art-competition-for-alabama-s-7th-congressional-district,Rep. Sewell Announces Winner of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,2023-05-19,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Tuscaloosa, AL – U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the winner of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The announcement was made at a virtual reception held Wednesday night during which Sewell joined participants to celebrate the 58 entries submitted by talented students from across the 7th District. Perri Payne, an 11th grader at Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale, was awarded first place for her submission entitled ""A Glimpse Into the Future.""

“Every year, I am amazed by the incredible talent of our students here in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, and this year is no exception!” said Rep. Sewell. “Congratulations to our first place winner, Perri Payne, who did a wonderful job capturing our theme, ‘Reimagine Alabama.’ Her piece speaks to the power of young people to change the future of our state. I am so proud of Perri and all of the talented young artists who participated.”

“I feel like this piece represents how I felt as a Black girl growing up in Alabama and how I imagined it,” said First Place Winner Perri Payne. “I protested it by drawing a young Black girl with Alabama in her palms to represent how Alabama is in the hands of the next generation and what we do now represents the future.”

“I am incredibly proud of Perri,” said Ms. Olivia Williams, Art Teacher at Paul W. Bryant High School. “She has grown so much as an artist in the two years I have been fortunate enough to have her in my class. Her ability to create work that is meaningful, personal, and skillfully executed is beyond her years. She has so much natural talent and it’s been an honor to help her find a voice in her work. I hope she understands how big of an accomplishment this is, and that she feels encouraged and supported in everything she does in her future.”

Payne’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.

The other students that placed were:

2nd Place - “Southern Roots” by Onda McKnight, 8th grader at the Capitol School in Tuscaloosa

3rd Place - “Serenity” by Isabella Dennison, 11th grader at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in Montgomery

Honorable Mention - “The City Through My Eyes” by Laila Gray, 11th grader at Hillcrest High School in Tuscaloosa",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-statement-affirming-huntsville-as-the-best-location-for-u-s-space-command-headquarters,Rep. Sewell Statement Affirming Huntsville as the Best Location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters,2023-05-16,2023,2023-05,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 affirming that Huntsville is the best location for U.S. Space Command Headquarters:

“Both a GAO and Inspector General report confirmed that the Air Force used a merit-based process in its decision to locate U.S. Space Command headquarters in Huntsville. This conclusion was made under two separate administrations. Huntsville is without question the best home for Space Command.”

“The White House should immediately reconfirm Huntsville as the headquarters of Space Command. Surely, the Biden Administration would not allow politics to improperly influence this decision.

“To be clear, I am a strong supporter of women’s reproductive freedom and I remain fiercely opposed to Senator Tuberville’s dangerous and unprecedented hold on military promotions. Still, the decision to locate Space Command in Huntsville was based on merit, and the people of Alabama should not be punished for Senator Tuberville’s recklessness.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/following-mother-s-day-rep-sewell-introduces-legislation-to-protect-the-health-of-mothers-and-babies,"Following Mother’s Day, Rep. Sewell Introduces Legislation to Protect the Health of Mothers and Babies",2023-05-15,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"The Maternal Vaccination Act would address America’s maternal health crisis by boosting vaccination rates among vulnerable mothers and babies

Washington D.C. – Today, following the celebration of Mother’s Day, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) introduced the Maternal Vaccination Act to protect the health of mothers and babies by increasing maternal and childhood vaccination rates. The legislation was included as a part of the larger “Momnibus,” a package of 13 bills that would address the United States’ urgent maternal health crisis. Rep. Sewell is a proud member of the Black Maternal Health Caucus.

“As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we must also commit to solving our country’s urgent maternal health crisis,” said Rep. Sewell. “In this nation of so much wealth and prosperity, it is simply unconscionable that our mothers continue to die during pregnancy and childbirth at the highest rate in the developed world.”

“Up to 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable,” continued Sewell. “Our Maternal Vaccination Act will save lives by helping to ensure that our most vulnerable moms and babies are protected against deadly, preventable diseases.”

The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income country, and it is rapidly getting worse. Recent data from the CDC show that maternal deaths in recent years have increased by a dramatic 40%. But there is hope; more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, and federal action is needed to comprehensively address the drivers of this crisis and save moms’ lives.

The Maternal Vaccination Act will provide funding for a public and provider awareness campaign to promote maternal and child vaccinations, including initiatives to:

Increase awareness about the safety, importance, and effectiveness of vaccines for pregnant and postpartum people and their children;

Provide targeted, evidence-based, culturally and linguistically appropriate resources about vaccines to pregnant and postpartum people, particularly in communities with historically low vaccination rates; and

Provide evidence-based information and resources on the safety and importance of maternal and child vaccinations to public health departments, maternal health care providers, and perinatal health workers.

Read more about the Momnibus here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-selma-mayor-george-evans,Rep. Sewell Statement on the Passing of Former Selma Mayor George Evans,2023-05-15,2023,2023-05,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) released the following statement on the passing of Former Selma Mayor George P. Evans:

“Today, the City of Selma lost a giant. I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the family on the passing of George P. Evans, the former two-term Mayor of Selma. From being Dallas County’s first Black school board superintendent to his 16 years of public service as President of the Selma City Council and then as Mayor, Evans led by example through his hard work, perseverance, grit, and kindness.

“During his tenure as Mayor, he partnered with my office to create jobs and bring vital federal resources home to Selma and Dallas County. From his demonstrated efforts to revitalize downtown Selma to his dedicated commitment to making our community stronger and safer, Mayor Evans fought hard to improve the lives of the people he served.

“I will never forget the honor of standing alongside Mayor Evans and President Obama at the foot of the Selma bridge to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March, as the Mayor welcomed the world to his beloved hometown.

“I have known Mayor Evans all my life and he has always been a strong voice and a tireless fighter for the people of Selma. He loved his family, his church, his city, and most of all, he loved people. His public service has left an indelible imprint on Selma and he will be missed. Let us find comfort knowing that his incredible legacy will live on in the many people he touched. May he rest in peace and power.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-announces-750-000-for-selma-university-to-preserve-pollard-hall,"Rep. Sewell Announces $750,000 for Selma University to Preserve Pollard Hall",2023-05-05,2023,2023-05,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 the National Park Service (NPS) will award $750,000 to Selma University to preserve the historic Pollard Hall. The funding is part of a $9.7 million investment by NPS to preserve historic structures on the campuses of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Each year, Rep. Sewell leads the congressional effort to increase funding for the NPS Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) to preserve Civil Rights sites and HBCU campuses. Sewell proudly serves as Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus.

“I’m thrilled to announce that the National Park Service is investing $750,000 to preserve the historic Pollard Hall on the campus of Selma University!” said Rep. Sewell. “This funding will enable Selma University to make critical repairs to Pollard Hall to ensure that the rich legacy of this cherished institution lives on for generations. Each year, I’m proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Civil Rights Grant Program to preserve Alabama’s Civil Rights sites and HBCUs. As Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I will continue fighting for funding like this to ensure the vitality of Alabama’s HBCUs!”

“The historic structures on Selma University’s campus are dear to us and tell the story of a people who banded their meager resources to build a better life for themselves and their posterity,” said Selma University President Dr. Stanford E. Angion. “These structures must be preserved and shared with the public. I am tremendously grateful to Representative Terri Sewell and the National Park Service for helping us to move forward in our efforts to preserve the rich history of Pollard Hall.”

“These grants enable historic educational institutions to preserve the story of African American education and the campuses where new experiences and stories continue to evolve today,” said NPS Director Chuck Sams. “Through the Historically Black Colleges and Universities grants program, the National Park Service supports our HBCUs in the preservation of their historic campus structures and history.

Built in 1916, Pollard Hall of Selma University, founded as the Alabama Baptist Normal and Theological School in 1878, served as an administrative center for visitors, a meeting place for major figures in Black education, such as Booker T. Washington, and a home for several university presidents. Pollard Hall is a contributing resource to the proposed Selma University Historic District. This grant project will help repair the roof, HVAC system, and electrical and plumbing systems and install an elevator. The grant recipient will also contribute $496,414 in matching funds.

The funding announced today is part of a $9.7 million investment by NPS in HBCUs nationwide. Since the 1990s, the National Park Service has awarded over $60 million in grants to over 80 of the remaining active HBCUs. These grants work to preserve the historic structures on HBCU campuses, many of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-applauds-resolution-agreement-in-doj-environmental-justice-investigation-in-lowndes-county,Rep. Sewell Applauds Resolution Agreement in DOJ Environmental Justice Investigation in Lowndes County,2023-05-04,2023,2023-05,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) released the following statement regarding the announcement of an interim resolution agreement in the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) environmental justice investigation into the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Lowndes County Health Department (collectively ADPH) in Lowndes County, Alabama.

“As a daughter of the Black Belt, I have seen firsthand the abhorrent wastewater conditions that my constituents face, resulting in part from decades of disinvestment, inaction, and neglect. The disproportionate impact that this crisis has on the Black residents of Lowndes County is completely unacceptable.

“I am grateful to the DOJ and the Department of Health and Human Services for identifying a set of concrete steps that must be taken to address the wastewater crisis. It is my hope that the State of Alabama will fully comply with this agreement and do its part to provide access to basic sanitation services for the residents of Lowndes County. My constituents deserve nothing less.

“This agreement represents a step forward in our continued fight for equitable and safe wastewater systems in the Black Belt, but our work is far from over. I will continue working to pass legislation and secure more funding at the federal level to address this crisis. Access to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-and-sen-booker-introduce-legislation-named-for-the-late-rep-john-lewis-to-advance-health-equity-and-access-to-care,Rep. Sewell and Sen. Booker Introduce Legislation Named for the Late Rep. John Lewis to Advance Health Equity and Access to Care,2023-05-02,2023,2023-05,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) introduced 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).

“Our late colleague, Congressman John Lewis, dedicated his life to the fight for fairness and equity, including the right to quality affordable health care for Americans of every background,” said Rep. Sewell. “Along with Senator Booker, I’m proud to be introducing legislation which would advance his legacy by expanding access to health care for minorities, underserved areas, and high-risk individuals. The John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act will go a long way in helping us ensure coordinated care and build a fairer and more just health care system for all.”

""Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, and it is time for our policies to reflect that,” said Senator Booker. “The John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act is a necessary step toward ensuring that all Americans, regardless of their race or ethnicity, have access to the fair and quality care they deserve. Let us honor the legacy of Representative John Lewis by passing this important legislation and taking bold action towards improving health equity and health outcomes for everyone.""

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 is grateful for Representative Sewell’s leadership in the fight to eliminate health disparities,” said Mary’ I. O’Connor, MD, Chair of Movement is Life. “We are excited that Representative Sewell is reintroducing the John Lewis EMMT Act to provide much needed reforms to ensure all new payment models are designed to reduce health disparities.""

“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 and urban areas alike, we continue to believe that we must come together, from all 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 and will continue to champion this bill as a crucial step towards addressing social determinants and improving health outcomes across the country.”

“The National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON), a national member organization of nurses who share an interest in musculoskeletal healthcare, is proud to endorse the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act” said Charla Johnson, NAON Immediate Past President. “This important legislation addresses our shared goal of eliminating health disparities and improving access to quality care in minorities and underserved urban and rural communities.”

“The Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN) is committed to supporting patients and their right to access high-quality, affordable health care, as our 10,000+ medical-surgical nurse members know firsthand the inequities within the healthcare system and struggles that many patients have to access the care they need. This bill would address the important issue of social determinants of health (SDOH) by creating new policy and urging equity for all when it comes to healthcare,” said AMSN President, Marisa L. Streelman, DNP, RN, CMSRN, NE-BC. “We are proud to support the John Lewis Equality in Medicare and Medicaid Treatment Act and hope to see it enacted by the 118th Congress.”

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

Protect Our Care

Health Equity Coalition for Chronic Diseases

ZimmerBiomet

The Senate version is cosponsored by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Alex Padilla (D-CA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/5/rep-sewell-secures-500-000-to-support-long-term-recovery-planning-in-selma-and-dallas-county-following-the-january-12th-storms,"Rep. Sewell Secures $500,000 to Support Long-Term Recovery Planning in Selma and Dallas County Following the January 12th Storms",2023-05-02,2023,2023-05,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 $500,000 that she helped secure for the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission to support long-term recovery efforts in Selma and Dallas County following the January 12th storms. The grant was awarded by the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) and will be used to develop a long-term planning strategy that will incorporate federal, state, and local emergency management agencies, economic development agencies, and housing organizations.

“Following the devastating January 12th storms, I hosted the first of what will be a series of community conversations to give the residents of Selma and Dallas County an opportunity to share their hopes and dreams for our recovery,” said Rep. Sewell. “Today, I’m thrilled to share that we have secured $500,000 from the Economic Development Administration to develop a long-term plan in close coordination with our federal, state, and local partners. This grant is a major victory and will go a long way in helping us reimagine our communities. Working together, I know that we will turn tragedy into opportunity and come back even better and stronger than before.”

“Thanks to the efforts of Congresswoman Terri Sewell, the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission has secured a $500,000 Long-Term Recovery Planning Grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration for Selma/Dallas County,” said John Clyde Riggs, Executive Director of the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission.

“The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting locally-driven disaster recovery and resiliency plans,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This investment will help prepare Dallas County for future economic disruptions, such as those caused by recent natural disasters, including 2017’s Hurricane Nate and a tornado earlier this year.

Today’s grant announcement is the latest in an ongoing federal, state, and local partnership to recover and rebuild in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District following the January 12th storms. On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100%. This request was granted by President Biden on Thursday, February 9. On March 20, Rep. Sewell hosted the first of a series of community conversations entitled “Selma and Dallas County Reimagined” to give residents an opportunity to share their hopes and dreams for the future of the region.

A video message from Rep. Sewell is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-announces-1-2-million-for-the-community-action-association-of-alabama-to-help-alleviate-the-need-for-diapers-among-alabama-s-babies-and-toddlers,Rep. Sewell Announces $1.2 Million for the Community Action Association of Alabama to Help Alleviate the Need for Diapers Among Alabama’s Babies and Toddlers,2023-04-28,2023,2023-04,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) announced $1.2 million for the Community Action Association of Alabama to help alleviate the need for diapers among Alabama’s babies and toddlers. This grant is designed to expand existing diaper distribution programs as part of the Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot at the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) at the Department of Health and Human Services. The program, also known as the Diaper Distribution Pilot, channels new funding to expand existing diaper distribution services through the robust network of anti-poverty services funded by ACF’s Office of Community Services (OCS).

“Alabama’s working families know all too well just how expensive purchasing diapers can be,” said Rep. Sewell. “In fact, for workers earning minimum wage, diapers can cost up to 8% of their total income. With this $1.2 million grant, we are taking an important step toward ensuring that all of our families have the diapers they need to keep our babies clean, healthy, and happy. I know that this will make a big difference for many of Alabama’s most vulnerable families.”

Diapers are essential for the health and wellbeing of babies and toddlers, but one in three families in the United States does not have enough of them. Diapers alone can cost 8% of a person’s total income if they are earning federal minimum wage, and parents and caregivers who do not have enough diapers often cannot drop their children off at child care. This means that parents cannot go to work, and babies and toddlers are more susceptible to painful rashes and infections. A lack of diapers is not only a public health issue, it is a formidable obstacle to economic mobility for families with low incomes.

The Community Action Association of Alabama (CAAA) works to better focus local, state, private, and federal resources to assist low-income individuals and families statewide. CAAA is a partnership made up of 18 Community Action Agencies funded by the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) working to produce measurable outcomes and results to eliminate poverty. Using the $1.2 million awarded for the Diaper Pilot, CAAA will distribute diapers and diapering supplies to low-income families while providing parenting education and increasing access to wrap-around services. CAAA will collaborate with multiple partners including agency Early Head Start programs, the National Diaper Bank Network, and local community organizations such as:

VOICES for Alabama’s Children

Low-Income Housing Coalition of Alabama

Collaborative Solutions

Alabama Possible

Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank

Whatley Health Services

Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc. (CSP)

For more information about CAAA visit https://caaalabama.org.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-opening-remarks-at-house-administration-committee-hearing-on-confidence-in-elections,Rep. Sewell Opening Remarks at House Administration Committee Hearing on Confidence in Elections,2023-04-27,2023,2023-04,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), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, delivered the following opening remarks at the House Administration hearing on Confidence in Elections.

Click here to watch Rep. Sewell’s opening remarks.

Opening Statement: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

“As the Chair acknowledged, Ranking Member Morelle is unable to be here today due to a death in his family.

“I know we all offer him our sincerest condolences.

“Today we are discussing state tools to promote voter confidence. To do so, we must acknowledge a truth.

“Perpetuating falsehoods about stolen or insecure elections undermines our confidence.

“Acknowledging and alleging a lack of voter confidence or lack of integrity in the electoral system is a false justification to rationalize enactment of suppressive voter laws and procedures such as eliminating ballot drop box, restricting mail in voting, enacting suppressive voter ID laws, and discriminatory voter list maintenance practices that result in otherwise eligible voters being removed from the rolls.

“Instead, confidence in election means every eligible voter feels confident that they can access and cast a ballot, that that ballot will be counted and that it was counted as cast.

“When voters see voting methods their communities have been using for decades suddenly being attacked without evidence, it does not promote voter confidence.

“Indeed, ensuring eligible voters have access to the franchise promotes voter confidence.

“One of the most critical tools states have to promote voter confidence are well trained, well-resourced election officials, people who administer elections year after year are known in their communities and who voters can turn to for accurate information.

“However, these trusted public servants have become the targets of harassment and threats.

“A survey of local election officials published earlier this year by the Brennan Center for Justice found that nearly 3 in 4 feel that threats against election officials have increased in recent years, and 30% say that they have personally been abused, harassed or threatened because of their job.

“The survey also found that given the rate at which officials are leaving the profession, we can expect more than 1 in 5 local election officials to be serving in their first presidential election in 2024.

“We need to ensure that these officials have the training and resources needed to carry out the critical work of administering our elections.

“Our democracy does not function without them.

“As we discussed at a committee hearing last month, election officials have worked hard and made significant strides to increase transparency in the electoral process and provide opportunities for the public to better understand and understand what can otherwise be a cumbersome and hard process.

“The Supreme Court has found that voting is a fundamental political right because it is preservative of all rights and Congress has broad powers to legislate under the election clause.

“We should be making it easier to vote.

“As elected officials we should be making sure that access to the ballot box is easy. We also must be truthful.

“There is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in the United States elections. It is already hard to cheat and committing fraud, committing acts of fraud, voter fraud is already against the law.

“Continuing to perpetuate false claims of rigged elections undermines voter confidence.

“Passing laws that restrict voters access to the ballot box undermines voter confidence.

“Casting election officials as a part of a conspiracy to steal an election undermines voter confidence.

“Since the founding of our country, large segments of the American people have been intentionally excluded from the right to vote, and their access to the ballot box has been purposefully curtailed.

“Claiming that higher voter turnout numbers mean restrictive voting laws do not have suppressive or discriminatory effect, while ignoring evidence of significant racial turnout gaps, that undermines voter confidence.

“While many minority communities overwhelmed by barriers to casting their vote, it does not make those barriers fair.

“It certainly does not justify or validate their existence.

“This committee's role in conducting oversight of federal elections is critical.

“We must work to protect access to the ballot box, ensure states and localities have the funding and resources they need to conduct free and fair elections.

“Protect election workers from harassment and threats.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-calls-on-congress-to-reject-republican-debt-ceiling-demands-and-avoid-catastrophic-default,Rep. Sewell Calls on Congress to Reject Republican Debt Ceiling Demands and Avoid Catastrophic Default,2023-04-26,2023,2023-04,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) joined nearly 200 of her colleagues from across the House Democratic Caucus in a letter to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy calling on Republicans to uphold their obligation to protect the full faith and credit of the United States by lifting the debt ceiling “without any extraneous policies attached.”

“It is a sad day when House Republicans shamefully hold our economy hostage and threaten to default on our debt unless Congress makes deep cuts to programs that Alabamians rely on,” said Rep. Sewell. “We in Congress should never play politics with the full faith and credit of the United States of America. Republicans must join us to raise the debt ceiling—just as they did three times under the previous administration—and avoid economic collapse.”

“I am a strong believer in balancing our budget,” continued Sewell. “Despite Republicans’ 2017 tax giveaway to the wealthy—which added $2 trillion to our deficit—I am proud of the historic deficit reduction that we have achieved under President Biden. If Republicans want to address our national debt, they should start by making the wealthy pay their fair share instead of targeting veteran benefits, food assistance, and other programs that hard working Alabama families rely on.”

If agreed to, Speaker McCarthy’s debt ceiling demands would have devastating consequences for Alabama families. According to a report by the House Budget Committee Minority, House Republicans' debt ceiling proposal would:

Threaten access to food assistance for 17,000 people aged 50-55 in Alabama.

Eliminate preschool and child care for at least 5,600 children in Alabama.

Increase housing costs for at least 8,800 people in Alabama.

Make college more expensive for at least 98,900 students in Alabama.

Eliminate at least 3 air traffic control towers in Alabama.

Cut at least 150 rail safety inspection days in Alabama.

Repeal investments in cleaner, cheaper energy — threatening at least 1,280 clean energy and manufacturing jobs announced in Alabama since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act.

If Republicans do not get their way, and instead choose to cause an unprecedented credit default, they would unleash global economic catastrophe and put vital government services at risk. According to the report, a default would:

Kill about 6,000 jobs in Alabama’s 7th District alone. Nationwide, a default could kill more than 7 million jobs.

Jeopardize Social Security payments for 101,000 families in Alabama’s 7th District.

Put health benefits at risk for 306,000 people in Alabama’s 7th District who rely on Medicare, Medicaid, or Veterans Affairs health coverage.

Increase lifetime mortgage costs for the typical homeowner in Alabama by $43,000.

Raise the costs of a new car loan for the typical American by $800.

Threaten the retirement savings of 91,400 people near retirement in Alabama’s 7th District, eliminating $20,000 from the typical retirement portfolio.

Rep. Sewell and her Democratic colleagues made clear that while they welcome debate on spending and economic responsibility, negotiations over spending must be distinct from the threat of economic default, and any cuts to Social Security and Medicare are off the table.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-announces-2-million-in-federal-funding-for-the-lovelady-center-in-birmingham,Rep. Sewell Announces $2 Million in Federal Funding for the Lovelady Center in Birmingham,2023-04-24,2023,2023-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Sewell secured this funding in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal government funding package

Birmingham, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced $2 million in federal funding that she secured for the Lovelady Center to help break the cycle of incarceration and poverty for women in the Birmingham region. At a press conference, Rep. Sewell presented a check to Lovelady Founder Brenda Lovelady Spahn, which will be used to rehabilitate two dormitories on the Lovelady campus. The funding is part of the $42.8 million that Sewell secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package for local projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District.

“By providing food, a safe place to stay, and spiritual guidance, the Lovelady Center has played a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty and getting our most vulnerable women reintegrated into society,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am thrilled to have secured $2 million to help rehabilitate the center’s dormitories so that they can continue their critical work. My team and I worked diligently to ensure that money for this project was included in the annual government funding bill so that we can make our community safer, stronger, and more prosperous. I can’t wait to see the impact that it will have here in Birmingham!”

“We are so honored to receive this funding to rehabilitate our 96-year-old facility,” said Frank Long, Director of External Affairs at the Lovelady Center. “It means so much to us and the women we serve to have our Congresswoman support the Lovelady Center that has transformed the lives of thousands of women. Since its founding in 2005 we have helped over 14,000 women and 4,000 children and we know that this funding is a critical part of our dedication to long term recovery. Ultimately we are so honored she would think of us.”

The mission of the Lovelady Center is to help women rebuild their lives and walk forward with faith-driven hope for the future. The Lovelady Center ensures that each woman is taught how to overcome barriers to success by providing not only much needed services, but also life skills and spiritual guidance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/reps-sewell-and-rogers-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-alabama-s-rural-wastewater-crisis,Reps. Sewell and Rogers Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Alabama’s Rural Wastewater Crisis,2023-04-20,2023,2023-04,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Bill would help households install or upgrade wastewater systems through USDA grant program

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Mike Rogers (AL-03) introduced the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan bill would help combat Alabama’s rural wastewater crisis by strengthening and expanding the existing United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program. The program provides grants to help low- and moderate-income households install or upgrade individually owned decentralized wastewater systems. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sens. Corey Booker (D-NJ) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

“Access to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right, but for too many of my constituents, generations of disinvestment have created broken and failing wastewater systems that put the health of our communities at risk,” said Rep. Sewell. “The Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act is an important step toward correcting this injustice. Many communities in the Black Belt have received USDA Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program grants to help households install and upgrade their wastewater systems. By reauthorizing and expanding this program, more rural and underserved communities will receive the wastewater infrastructure resources that they deserve.”

“I am excited to join my colleague and friend from the great state of Alabama to reintroduce this important legislation,” said Rep. Rogers. “I was especially proud to work in a bipartisan and bicameral manner to address the universal issue of our country’s failing rural wastewater infrastructure. Reauthorizing this grant program will ensure access to clean water for more rural communities in Alabama and across the country.”

“Water is a basic human right and access to safe, clean water should never be determined based on one’s socioeconomic status,” said Senator Booker. “We must ensure that all Americans have access to reliable water well and wastewater systems to prevent health hazards in communities where water contamination is a real threat. That is why I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill that would expand and strengthen the USDA Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program to provide support to more low- and moderate-income households to modernize their outdated wastewater systems.”

“Strengthening our infrastructure throughout West Virginia has been and remains a top priority of mine,” said Senator Capito. “I’m glad to join Senator Booker in reintroducing legislation that will help improve home water systems in West Virginia, and reauthorize the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Grant Program that has proven to work in my state. This legislation is also included in my list of Farm Bill priorities this year, and I look forward to working to advancing it.”

Approximately 20 percent of Americans dispose of wastewater through their own sewage disposal systems. Because these systems have high maintenance costs, certain failures often go unaddressed, potentially endangering the health of millions of Americans living in areas where water can be contaminated as a result of homes that lack a sewage system altogether or have a failing, improperly installed, or homemade septic system. The problem is particularly dire in parts of rural Alabama where—in the absence of municipal wastewater systems—many families have struggled to afford the installation and maintenance costs associated with individually owned wastewater systems.

The Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act:

Reauthorizes the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Grant Program through 2028

Reinstates eligibility for loans to individuals earning up to 100 percent of the area median income.

Targets funding through subgrants to individuals earning 60 percent or less of the area median income.

Increases the maximum subgrant or loan amount from $15,000 to $20,000.

Allows subgrant funding to include the cost of a performance warranty for individually owned household decentralized wastewater systems.

The Rural Decentralized Water Systems Reauthorization Act has been endorsed by the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) and the Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-celebrates-the-80th-birthday-of-the-honorable-judge-u-w-clemon-by-honoring-him-on-the-house-floor,Rep. Sewell Celebrates the 80th Birthday of the Honorable Judge U.W. Clemon by Honoring Him on the House Floor,2023-04-18,2023,2023-04,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) celebrated the birthday of the Honorable Judge U.W. Clemon by honoring him on the House Floor. Alabama’s first Black federal Judge, Clemon celebrated his 80th birthday on Sunday, April 9th.

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

Rep. Sewell: Mister Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary career of a legal giant and Civil Rights activist, Alabama’s first Black federal judge, the Honorable U.W. Clemon, who celebrated his 80th birthday on April 9th.

A native of Alabama, Judge Clemon was born in 1943. Despite much of his childhood in the segregated school system of Jefferson County, Clemon broke down barriers, graduating as a two-time valedictorian, first at Westfield High School in 1961 and then at Miles College in 1965.

As a college student, Judge Clemon was a leading voice for civil rights. He marched in countless student demonstrations under the direction of Dr. King and played a pivotal role in the Selective Buying Campaign to boycott segregated stores in downtown Birmingham.

Before graduating from Columbia Law School in 1968, Clemon clerked at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, forming a life-long association serving as local counsel on numerous civil rights lawsuits throughout Alabama.

Judge Clemon always understood the importance of the law in the fight for justice and equality.

He quickly gained a reputation as an effective and fearless lawyer, taking on Coach “Bear” Bryant to desegregate the all-white University of Alabama football team, and he took on the U.S. Steel Corporation which led to the desegregation of the American steel industry.

By 1974, Judge Clemon took his advocacy to the Alabama State Legislature, making history as one of the first two African Americans elected to the Alabama Senate since Reconstruction.

His tenure as a pioneering lawmaker and skilled attorney caught the attention of President Jimmy Carter who appointed then-Senator Clemon to serve as Alabama's first Black federal judge in 1980. He went on to serve on the federal bench for 30 years until 2009.

Judge Clemon was a highly respected jurist inside and outside the courtroom. He was known as fair but tough. He demanded that lawyers before him represent their clients competently and effectively. Judge Clemon served as Chief Justice for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama from 1999 to 2006.

Despite retiring from the bench in 2009, Judge Clemon has remained a vibrant member of the Birmingham legal community where he continues to practice law, serving the underrepresented, vulnerable, and underserved. He has received numerous awards, holds three honorary degrees, two street namings, and most recently, an elementary school was named in his honor.

On a personal note, Judge Clemon is a trusted advisor, counselor, and a loving father figure to me. My most formative legal experience was serving as a law clerk for Judge Clemon after graduating from law school in 1992.

I learned so much serving as his law clerk. I learned more about the practice of law and saw firsthand what justice looks like by witnessing him in his courtroom. Sitting with him in his chamber was always an educational experience. The Judge tested my knowledge, stretched my legal acumen, challenged my views, and inspired me to be a better lawyer and person.

I know that I now serve as Alabama’s first Black Congresswoman because I was blessed by a transformative experience clerking for Alabama’s first Black federal judge.

I want to thank his loving family, his wife of 50 years, Ms. Barbra, and his two children, Michelle and Isaac, for sharing him with so many of us.

I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 80th birthday and the extraordinary career of an exceptional jurist, lawmaker, and public servant, and wonderful counselor, Judge U.W. Clemon, whose life’s work stands as a testament to the power of one person to change the world.

May the seeds Judge Clemon has sowed continue to bear fruit for generations to come.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-sends-letter-to-federal-railroad-administrator-amit-bose-requesting-action-to-address-recent-train-blockages-and-safety-concerns,Rep. Sewell Sends Letter to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose Requesting Action to Address Recent Train Blockages and Safety Concerns,2023-04-17,2023,2023-04,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) sent a letter to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit Bose regarding the recent increase in train blockages and resulting safety concerns in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. In the letter, Rep. Sewell requested a follow-up meeting with Administrator Bose and emphasized the need for railroad companies to be held accountable.

The letter reads in part, “As you know, blocked crossings create extended delays for commuters, hinder emergency vehicle access to neighborhoods, and create an unacceptable safety risk for residents trying to find alternative routes around the blocked crossings. This is unacceptable… We must all do more to reduce the frequency and length of blocked crossings until we can implement a long-term solution. Moreover, the rail companies must be held accountable as the federal government invests billions of dollars to modernize America’s rail systems.”

Rep. Sewell has been working closely with federal, state, and local partners to identify and implement long-term solutions to the train blockages impacting Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. In November 2021, after hearing concerns from local officials and community members, Rep. Sewell sent a letter to Federal Railroad Administrator Amit 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. In October 2022, Sewell welcomed Administrator Bose to Alabama to meet with local officials and explore solutions to the blocked railroad crossings. The City of Birmingham recently received an $800,000 federal Reconnecting Communities planning grant to increase safety and reconnect neighborhoods that have been divided by rail tracks for generations.

Sewell also helped secure key provisions in President Biden’sBipartisan Infrastructure Law to address train blockages.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-announces-2023-congressional-art-competition-for-high-school-students-in-alabama-s-7th-congressional-district,Rep. Sewell Announces 2023 Congressional Art Competition for High School Students in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,2023-04-11,2023,2023-04,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) announced that her office is now accepting submissions for the 2023 Congressional Art Competition. The competition is open to high school students from both public and private schools throughout Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, as well as home-schooled high school students. The winner will receive free round-trip airfare for two to Washington D.C. to attend an official reception honoring the winners from congressional districts across the nation. The winner’s artwork will be showcased in the U.S. Capitol for one year. The deadline to submit artwork is Friday, April 28, 2023.

This year’s theme, “Reimagine Alabama,” provides students an opportunity to capture their hopes and dreams for the state they call home.

To enter the contest, students must fill out and submit a Student Information and Release Form with their artwork by Friday, April 28, 2023. Students are encouraged to submit their artwork to their local school superintendent’s office or call (334) 262-1919 for pick up. Students may also deliver their art to any of Rep. Sewell’s district offices located in Birmingham, Montgomery, Selma and Tuscaloosa. Artwork may be up to 26” high X 26” wide X 4” deep. For more information, contact Rep. Sewell’s Montgomery Office at (334) 262-1919 or visit Sewell’s official website at sewell.house.gov/art-competition.

As a proud product of Alabama’s rural Black Belt, Rep. Sewell has witnessed first-hand the talent that Alabama’s 7th Congressional District holds. Each year she is immensely impressed with the outstanding submissions, and she is incredibly proud to have the winning artwork representing the 7th Congressional District in our nation’s capital.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/4/rep-sewell-joins-reps-tenney-davis-and-kelly-in-introducing-the-bipartisan-new-markets-tax-credit-extension-act,"Rep. Sewell Joins Reps. Tenney, Davis, and Kelly in Introducing the Bipartisan New Markets Tax Credit Extension Act",2023-04-06,2023,2023-04,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) joined Reps. Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Danny Davis (IL-07), and Mike Kelly (PA-16) in introducing the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Extension Act. This legislation would spur investment and economic growth in Alabama’s rural and underserved communities by making the NMTC a permanent fixture of our tax code.

Set to expire on December 31, 2025, the New Markets Tax Credit was established in the Community Renewal Tax Relief Act of 2000, and is an essential source of financing for businesses and community facilities in low-income and rural areas across the country. The NMTC provides private investors with a 39 percent credit against federal income taxes for investments made in some of the most distressed communities in the nation. This bill makes the NMTC a permanent part of the Internal Revenue Code, indexes allocation levels to inflation in future years, and exempts NMTC investments from the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT).

“In Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, we have seen firsthand the power of the New Markets Tax Credit to spur investment and incentivize economic growth in some of our most vulnerable and underserved communities,” said Rep. Sewell. “The New Markets Tax Credit remains a critical tool to promote job creation and provide opportunities to those who need them most. We must ensure that this tool is made a permanent part of our tax code, and that’s exactly what this legislation would do.”

“Now more than ever, it is essential that we work to create investments in our rural and low-income communities,” said Rep. Tenney, lead Republican sponsor. “Rural America is often forgotten by the Washington elites, which means that rural communities sometimes lack the necessary resources to invest, grow, and expand. Congress must make the New Markets Tax Credit permanent to allow our rural communities to continue accessing this important resource which helps to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. As a small business owner from rural America, I will always be a tenacious advocate for investments in our rural communities and businesses in Congress.”

“Over the years, the New Markets Tax Credit has well-proven its worth by revitalizing neighborhoods and cities that need the help the most,” said Rep. Kelly. “The New Markets Tax Credit Extension (NMTC) Act would allow more communities across the country to receive the benefits that I have seen firsthand in my district, including 518 new jobs from three projects in Northwestern Pennsylvania. Since the program’s inception, the NMTC has created over 24,000 permanent jobs and 27,000 construction across Pennsylvania. Along with revitalizing American’s Main Streets, the NMTC program is a job creator and I’m proud to support this legislation again in the 118th Congress!”

“The New Markets Tax Credit has been and remains absolutely vital for many of America’s urban neighborhoods and rural communities and will provide billions of dollars for high-impact, community revitalization projects,” said Bob Rapoza, spokesperson for the NMTC Coalition. “Over the years, the credit has been instrumental in financing plant and equipment for small manufacturing businesses and patient, flexible capital to other small businesses, hospitals, healthcare centers, homeless shelters and other transformative projects that improve communities, create jobs and economic opportunity. We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Tenney and Sewell in promoting more investment in distressed communities.”

“We commend Representatives Tenney and Sewell for leading the way to make the New Markets Tax Credit a permanent part of the tax code. It is one of the most concrete steps the 118th Congress could take to spur investment in economically distressed communities—from rural towns to urban neighborhoods, and everywhere in between,” said Lori Chatman, Interim co-CEO, Enterprise Community Partners. “This proposal is a bipartisan opportunity to add stability and efficiency to a program that has already delivered $120 billion in community assets and created more than 1 million jobs nationwide, including NMTCs Enterprise recently provided to finance the GLOW Healthy Living Campus in Batavia, New York.”

Additional cosponsors include Rep. Miller (R-WV), Rep. Ferguson (R-GA), Rep. Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Rep. Schweikert (R-AZ), Rep. Smucker (R-PA), Rep. Wenstrup (R-OH), Rep. LaHood (R-IL), Rep. Yakym III (R-IN), Rep. Steube (R-FL), Rep. Carey (R-OH), Rep. Buchanan (R-FL), Rep. Van Duyne (R-TX), Rep. Blumenauer (D-OR), Rep. Sánchez (D-CA), Rep. Higgins (D-NY), Rep. DelBene (D-WA), Rep. Chu (D-CA), Rep. Moore (D-WI), Rep. Kildee (D-MI), Rep. Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Evans (D-PA), Rep. Panetta (D-CA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:44:29Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/reps-sewell-arrington-hudson-and-ruiz-introduce-the-nancy-gardner-sewell-medicare-multi-cancer-early-detection-screening-coverage-act,"Reps. Sewell, Arrington, Hudson, and Ruiz Introduce the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act",2023-03-30,2023,2023-03,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) joined Reps. Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Richard Hudson (NC-09), and Raul Ruiz (CA-25) to introduce the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) Screening Coverage Act, named for Rep. Sewell’s late mother who passed away in 2021 from pancreatic cancer. This bipartisan legislation would create a pathway for Medicare to cover emerging blood-based cancer screenings which hold the potential to catch cancer earlier than ever before. Last Congress, the bill garnered the support of a bipartisan majority of both the House and Senate—with 258 House cosponsors and 54 Senate cosponsors—and over 400 organizations across the nation.

“No family in America has been spared the scourge of cancer,” said Rep. Sewell, lead Democratic sponsor. “Fortunately, innovative multi-cancer early detection screenings are emerging which hold the potential to detect cancer earlier than ever before. I’m proud to once again introduce the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, named for my late mother Nancy Gardner Sewell, to ensure that our seniors can access these tools once they are FDA approved. Not only will this bill save lives, but it will also help reduce the glaring racial disparities in cancer diagnosis and death. I look forward to harnessing our momentum from the 117th Congress to get this bill across the finish line!”

“Multi-cancer early detection is one of the many incredible examples of the United States leading in medical innovation,” said Rep. Arrington, lead Republican sponsor. “This type of screening has the potential to improve quality of life for millions of American cancer patients and their families while saving taxpayer dollars by treating cancer before it spreads. I am proud of the bipartisan support this bill gained last Congress and remain firm in my belief that this legislation will drastically improve our ability to treat and prevent cancer.”

“Too many families are devastated by a cancer diagnosis every day in the United States,” said Rep. Hudson. “By increasing access to multi-cancer early detection screening tests through Medicare, we can detect cancers sooner and save lives in North Carolina and around the country. As a member of the Health Subcommittee, I once again look forward to advancing this bipartisan legislation.”

""Detecting cancer early improves health outcomes and saves lives,"" said Dr. Ruiz. ""With innovative medical technologies, we can catch more cancers earlier than ever, but patients must be able to access these screenings. That's why it's very important for Medicare policy to keep pace with the development of multi-cancer screenings. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act to modernize Medicare coverage so older Americans can access these screenings and improve their health outcomes.""

Background:

The Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act would increase seniors’ timely access to multi-cancer early detection technology by creating a pathway to Medicare coverage. This bill will allow for Medicare coverage of MCED screenings once they are approved by the Food and Drug Administration. New MCED screening tools will complement existing screening and dramatically improve our nation’s cancer early detection capabilities. Currently, we are only able to commonly screen for five cancers and just 14% of cancers are found through screenings.

The impact of late-stage cancer diagnosis is magnified in communities of color and throughout rural America where overall cancer outcomes are worse. These tools introduce a significant shift in the cancer screening landscape. Ensuring seniors have timely access is essential since age is the primary risk factor for cancer and more than 70% of cancer diagnoses are in the Medicare population. This legislation will open the door to a new era of detecting and treating cancer while ensuring that our most vulnerable citizens are not left behind.

Specifically, the legislation would:

Create the authority for CMS to cover blood-based MCED tests and future test methods once approved by the FDA and shown to have clinical benefit.

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

Clarify that (1) these new tools will complement, not replace, existing screenings and coverage and (2) cost sharing will not be impacted.

“People of color are at the greatest risk for cancer deaths, at least partly because of disparities in early detection,” said Thomas “Ted” Greer Jr., CEO of Alabama Regional Medical Services based in Birmingham, Alabama. “We believe new screening technologies offer a chance to reduce those disparities, and we applaud Rep. Sewell’s steadfast leadership to clear a path for these tests to be accessible to those at highest risk for cancer.”

“The Multi Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act would potentially expand access to cancer screenings in Medicare. The bill would allow the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to initiate an evidence-based coverage process for a multi-cancer screening test following FDA approval and once shown to have clinical benefit. ACS CAN supports the Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act to provide Medicare coverage of screening tests that are FDA approved. Cancer screening and early detection are key priorities for ACS CAN.” – American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network

“Early detection of cancer is vital to closing the gap in screening and eliminating the scourge of preventable death, hospitalizations and high costs on minority and disadvantaged populations. With only 14% of cancers found with current available screening, far too many lives are lost to late stage cancer diagnosis. National Minority Quality Forum is dedicated to shifting cancer stage diagnosis and applaud the tireless work of Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz to introduce legislation that will help ensure access to MCED tests within Medicare once they are approved by the FDA.” – National Minority Quality Forum

“The importance of detecting cancer early cannot be overstated. With the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, Congress can unlock a new era in how cancer is detected and treated. We thank the sponsors and cosponsors for recognizing that older adults are at the most risk for cancer and we must create a pathway to access the latest cancer detection tools. We’ve been proud to bring an astounding 400+ organizations together in calling for the passage of the bill. Let’s make early detection a reality for Medicare beneficiaries.” – Prevent Cancer Foundation

“MCED technology holds the potential to alter the current cancer screening paradigm by providing the oncology community with the tools they need to find many more cancers in earlier, more treatable stages. ACCC is committed to advancing best practices and policies that will facilitate the integration of MCED tests into our health care system and that includes supporting the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act. The war on cancer requires an all-hands-on deck approach and we need new tools, like MCED, to make a major impact. We’re grateful to leaders in Congress who are working to ensure older Americans can access this important new cancer screening tool.” – Association of Community Cancer Centers

“Having served hundreds of thousands of patients since our founding, we at the Cancer Support Community (CSC) have witnessed both the experiences of those who benefited from early detection of their cancer and those who did not and were often diagnosed at later stages, due to barriers in knowledge, access, both coverage and logistical, or lack of existing tests for their cancer. On behalf of CSC, we are proud to add our voice to the chorus in urging passage of the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act which has widespread support from Congress and the cancer community and applaud Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz for helping to ensure that government keeps up with the speed of healthcare innovation.” – Cancer Support Community

“The lung cancer community knows how important cancer screening tests are for treating and even curing the disease. But we need early detection capabilities for many more cancers and we need it urgently to save lives. That’s what multi-cancer early detection technology offers through a simple blood draw that screens for dozens of cancers. Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz are doing the important work of championing access to MCED tests within Medicare. The Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act will help remove barriers that could prevent use of the tests by those most at-risk for all cancers – older Americans. We urge others to join them in this fight.” – GO2 for Lung Cancer

“The Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act is an important step toward early detection for many cancers. We are making real progress in screening more Americans for colorectal cancer and innovations in screening tools is a key part of that. As technology advances, we must ensure that all patients have access to new, safe and effective technology. We commend Representatives Arrington, Sewell, Hudson, and Ruiz for taking an important step in that direction and working to have fewer Americans receive a cancer diagnosis.” – FIGHT Colorectal Cancer",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/reps-sewell-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-combat-physician-shortage-and-improve-access-to-health-care,"Reps. Sewell, Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Physician Shortage and Improve Access to Health Care",2023-03-29,2023,2023-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2023. This bipartisan legislation would combat the nation’s physician shortage and improve access to health care by expanding the number of Medicare-supported medical residency positions by 14,000 over seven years.

“In Alabama and all across the nation, we are facing an urgent physician shortage that will only get worse as our population continues to age,” said Rep. Sewell, lead sponsor. “By adding 14,000 new graduate medical education residency positions over the next seven years, this critical legislation will give hospitals and health centers the tools they need to improve access to care, lower wait times for patients, and create a pipeline of qualified medical professionals to serve Americans’ health needs.”

“In the face of a severe physician shortage, it is more important than ever to have highly-trained doctors in our hospitals,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick, lead Republican sponsor. “The bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Act will create more opportunities for aspiring doctors to join residency programs and help meet the growing demand for high-quality health care.”

According to data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the United States faces a projected physician shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, with demand for physicians outpacing supply. The nation’s demographics—particularly population growth and aging—serve as the primary driver of increasing demand for physician services. As the population continues to age and requires more medical care, it is critical to ensure there are enough physicians to care for those who need physician services. In addition, as a large portion of the physician workforce nears traditional retirement age, there is a critical need to educate and train more physicians to ensure there are enough physicians to care for patients across all communities in the future.

“The residency positions in the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act are a critical step in working to address the nation’s dire physician shortage,” said Association of American Medical Colleges President and CEO David J. Skorton, MD. “We thank Reps. Sewell and Fitzpatrick for their dedication to ensuring access to high-quality health care for all by expanding critical investments in physician training. By strategically targeting these new medical residency positions at a wide variety of teaching hospitals, we are also strengthening and diversifying the health care workforce and improving critical access to care for patients, families, and communities across the country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-statement-on-the-13th-anniversary-of-the-affordable-care-act,Rep. Sewell Statement on the 13th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act,2023-03-23,2023,2023-03,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 the following statement on the 13th anniversary of President Obama signing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law:

“On this day in 2010, President Barack Obama signed the Affordable Care Act into law. Thirteen years later, it is undeniable that the ACA has had a profound impact on Alabama and our nation.

“Under the leadership of President Biden and Congressional Democrats, we have made extraordinary progress in strengthening the ACA and bringing down health care costs for Alabama families. Today, more Alabamians and more Americans are insured than ever before and those with pre-existing conditions can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that they are protected from being denied coverage. With the American Rescue Plan, we lowered premiums for 219,000 Alabamians through the ACA marketplace and locked in those savings in the Inflation Reduction Act. Starting this year, no senior will pay more than $35 per month for insulin, and soon, our provisions to cap prescription drug costs and negotiate drug prices will take effect, providing critical savings for our seniors.

“To be clear, our work is far from over. In Congress, I am fighting every day to save Alabama’s rural hospitals, close the Medicaid coverage gap, and continue to bring down costs. I will continue to vigorously oppose attempts by my Republican colleagues to cut Medicare, strip Americans of their health care coverage, and roll back our progress.

“In this great nation of so much wealth and prosperity, no American should go without health care coverage. After all, access to quality, affordable health care is a right and not a privilege. I will continue working to improve the Affordable Care Act and bring down health care costs for the great people I represent.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-announces-6-4-million-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-improve-birmingham-shuttlesworth-international-airport,Rep. Sewell Announces $6.4 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Improve Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport,2023-03-21,2023,2023-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"$2.5 billion in transportation funding from the Infrastructure Law has been announced for Alabama to date including $39.5 million for Alabama’s airports

Birmingham, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport will receive $6,481,875 in federal funding to make improvements to the safety and reliability of the airport’s aprons and taxiways. Funding for this grant comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program and was made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed, approximately $2.5 billion has been announced for transportation in Alabama—including $39.5 million for Alabama’s airports in 2022 and 2023.

“I’m thrilled that the Biden-Harris Administration is investing over $6.4 million to enhance the safety and reliability of the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Airport through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law!” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “This is another great example of how the Infrastructure Law is delivering for our communities here in Alabama and a testament to what we can achieve when we put people over politics.”

“We are very committed to pursuing projects that extend the life of paved surfaces and help ensure a safe operating environment for the airlines, the military, and our general aviation customers,” said Darlene Wilson, Chair of the Birmingham Airport Authority. “We appreciate the support we get from Congresswoman Sewell and from the entire Alabama delegation in Washington.”

This project rehabilitates 15,540 square yards of the existing overflow apron pavement and 5,200 feet of taxiways at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris. The airport is also receiving $421,875 from the FAA for a new aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicle.

To date, $3 billion in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been announced and is headed to Alabama with over 115 specific projects identified for funding. Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed, approximately $2.5 billion has been announced for transportation in Alabama—including $39.5 million for Alabama’s airports in 2022 and 2023. Currently, more than 321,000 households across the state are receiving affordable high-speed internet due to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Many more projects will be added in the coming months as funding opportunities become grant awards and as formula funds become specific projects.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-wenstrup-carter-and-tonko-introduce-the-bipartisan-protecting-access-to-ground-ambulance-medical-services-act/d033847e-9a1d-4f8f-af11-b14dada71f14,"Rep. Sewell, Wenstrup, Carter, and Tonko Introduce the Bipartisan Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act",2023-03-17,2023,2023-03,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This Congress, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH), together with Reps. Earl Carter (R-GA) and Paul Tonko (D-NY) introduced the bipartisan Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act of 2023. This bill would ensure that ambulance service providers continue delivering quality healthcare services and lifesaving medical assistance.

“As we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic, our first responders provide irreplaceable care to those in need no matter where they are,” said Rep. Sewell. “However, due to the current Medicare reimbursement rate, these life-saving services come at a grave cost, especially to our rural communities, which are often too far from a traditional hospital. This bill addresses the critical need for ground ambulances in our most vulnerable communities, and I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill with bipartisan support.""

“When seconds are the difference between life and death, first responders arrive at the scene to provide life-saving care. This bill delivers key reforms so that Americans, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, can access ground ambulance transportation, and their providers can rely on consistent reimbursement from Medicare. This bill would help keep ambulance costs affordable,” said Rep. Wenstrup.

“When you’re in an emergency, timely access to an ambulance can mean the difference between life and death. With this bill, we will ensure that everyone, including those in remote or rural areas, has access to this life-saving care and that those who provide it receive proper Medicare reimbursement,” said Rep. Carter.

“Our emergency responders work every day on the frontlines to provide lifesaving care to our communities, and their invaluable role is even greater in rural and underserved areas, where hospitals and access to medical care are many miles away. This legislation addresses gaps in access to ambulance services and ensures that Americans are delivered affordable care, no matter where they live. I thank my colleagues, Representatives Wenstrup, Sewell, and Carter for pushing this bill forward,” said Rep. Tonko",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-announces-1-4-million-smart-grant-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-improve-transportation-efficiency-and-safety,Rep. Sewell Announces $1.4 Million SMART Grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Improve Transportation Efficiency and Safety,2023-03-15,2023,2023-03,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) announced that the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham will receive $1,492,204 from the Department of Transportation's Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program to develop a fully integrated mobility system addressing the longstanding disinvestment in public transportation across Central Alabama. This funding was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is a part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to promote innovative projects that improve transportation efficiency and safety.

“As the only member of Alabama’s Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I am thrilled to see the outpouring of critical investments like these coming to our communities,” continued Sewell. “I am even more proud that the SMART Program provides an innovative avenue to revitalize our current transportation system. I applaud Secretary Buttigieg and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for their continued dedication to investing in a sustainable and more equitable future.”

Background on Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Program

The program is based on a belief that planning, prototyping, and teambuilding are critical to advancing the state of the practice for data and technology projects in the public sector and is appropriated at $100M annually for fiscal years 2022−2026. To accomplish the objectives identified in BIL, the SMART Grants Program will fund projects that focus on using technology interventions to solve real-world challenges facing communities today. Through creativity and local experimentation, the SMART Program will support a range of approaches:

new transportation applications of existing and emerging technologies;

expanded and systematized use of proven technologies; and

deep integration of solutions with existing transportation systems.

The SMART program is divided into two stages. Stage 1 is the Planning and Prototyping Grants and determines eligible projects for Stage 2 Implementation Grants. During Stage 1, public sector project leaders should build internal buy-in and partnerships with public, private, academic, nonprofit, and community organizations and community networks to refine and prototype their concepts and report on results.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-two-days-left-for-alabamians-to-apply-for-federal-assistance-from-january-12th-storms,Rep. Sewell: Two Days Left for Alabamians to Apply for Federal Assistance from January 12th Storms,2023-03-14,2023,2023-03,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) reminded Alabamians that homeowners and renters who sustained damage to their primary property due to the January 12th severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes have two days left to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is March 16, 2023, for survivors to apply for federal assistance in Autauga, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Greene, Hale, Mobile, Morgan, Sumter, and Tallapoosa counties.

“Following the January 12th storms, I have made it my mission to get our communities the resources needed to rebuild better and stronger than before,” said Rep. Sewell. “In order to take advantage of the individual assistance available, my constituents in the eligible counties have until this Thursday, March 16th to submit an application. I remain committed to ensuring my constituents can benefit from the critical assistance available right now!”

Homeowners and renters in the designated counties can apply for assistance the following ways:

Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CT.

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov

Download the free FEMA mobile app for smartphones

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw

When applying, homeowners and renters will need:

A current phone number where you can be contacted

Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

Your Social Security Number

A general list of damage and losses

Banking information if you choose direct deposit

If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

If you are unable to locate important documents, FEMA will help you to identify other ways to verify your information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/3/rep-sewell-opening-statement-during-first-hearing-as-ranking-member-of-the-subcommittee-on-elections,Rep. Sewell Opening Statement During First Hearing as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Elections,2023-03-10,2023,2023-03,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), Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Elections, delivered her opening statement during the Subcommittee's first hearing of the 118th Congress, entitled Successes in the 2022 Midterm Elections. As Ranking Member, Sewell serves as the highest-ranking Democrat on the Subcommittee, which has jurisdiction over the administration of federal elections.

Click here to watch the full hearing. Click here to watch Rep. Sewell’s opening statement.

Opening Statement (As Prepared): Good morning. As the new Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Elections, I would like to thank Chairwoman Lee for welcoming us all this morning, and I look forward to working with her and all my fellow colleagues on the Subcommittee.

Providing oversight over federal election administration and ensuring every American has free and equitable access to the ballot is vital to our democracy.

I represent Alabama’s Seventh Congressional District, a district with a long, storied history in this country’s struggle for free and fair access to the ballot. I am excited to join this Committee and continue this critical work.

Last weekend we marked the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday in my hometown of Selma with President Biden, a bipartisan delegation of Members of Congress, civil rights leaders, and many of the surviving Foot Soldiers of the March from Selma to Montgomery. This annual pilgrimage serves as a reminder that the violent struggle for voting rights and equal access to the ballot is not one of the distant past. As we sit here today discussing the 2022 midterm elections, we must not lose sight of the fact that the struggle for equal voting rights that occurred on the Edmund Pettus Bridge 58 years ago, continues today.

There were successes in the 2022 midterms, to be sure. Millions of Americans cast their ballots, those ballots were counted, and election workers across the country performed admirably despite the threats and harassment they have faced over the last two years.

The election was secure, as it was in 2020.

Those who continued perpetuating the Big Lie that the last presidential election was stolen, and who traffic in falsehoods about the security of our elections lost many of their races for critical statewide offices.

Furthermore, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, in 2022 at least 12 states enacted laws that expand access to the vote.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, however, the Brennan Center found that another 12 states enacted restrictive or election interference legislation. We should applaud increases in voter turnout, not respond to them with new restrictions.

Additionally, while many minority communities overcame barriers to cast their ballot - it does not make those barriers fair, and it certainly does not justify or validate their existence.

In the years since the Supreme Court’s egregious decision in Shelby County v. Holder, states with a history of voter discrimination are no longer required to preclear their voting laws to ensure they are not discriminatory, allowing a wave of anti-voter laws to be adopted across the country. Today, the Supreme Court continues to dismantle the Voting Rights Act.

I am proud to be the lead sponsor of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, a bill that would update and reinstate the full force of the Voting Rights Act, a law that protected voters from discrimination for more than 50 years. Additionally, House Democrats have repeatedly passed pro-democracy legislation that would protect voters’ access to the ballot.

Generations of Americans fought for the sacred right to vote, overcoming barriers and violence to move us forward in the fight for democracy. The people of Alabama and this country have marched, bled, been jailed, and sometimes died, for the right to vote.

The work we do as Members of Congress and as members of this Committee should honor their legacy.

I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today and the discussion to follow.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:30:02Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-18-4-million-to-expand-broadband-at-alabama-hbcus-and-minority-serving-institutions,Rep. Sewell Announces $18.4 Million to Expand Broadband at Alabama HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions,2023-02-28,2023,2023-02,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) announced $18.4 million in funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to expand access to reliable high-speed internet at HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) in Alabama. The funding, which comes from the Connecting Minority Communities pilot program, is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s “Internet for All Initiative” that will connect everyone in America with affordable, reliable high-speed Internet service. Among the institutions receiving funding are Trenholm State Community College, Stillman College, Alabama State University, Talladega College, Tuskegee University, University of West Alabama, and Drake State Community and Technical College.

“The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on the dire need to expand access to reliable high-speed internet in Alabama,” said Rep. Sewell. “That’s why in 2020, I led a letter to Congressional Leadership urging additional funding to expand broadband in the COVID-19 emergency funding package. I’m proud that as a result of this advocacy, six Alabama HBCUs and minority serving institutions will be receiving over $18 million to increase access to high-speed internet for their students and faculty. This will make a big difference for each of these cherished campuses and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for this critical investment.”

In May 2020, Rep. Sewell led her colleagues in a letter to House and Senate leadership successfully urging the inclusion of increased funding for broadband expansion in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to her advocacy, the bill directed $268 million for expanding high-speed Internet access and connectivity to eligible HBCUs, Tribal Colleges or Universities (TCUs), and other MSIs which made this funding announcement possible.

The following institutions will receive funding:

H. Councill Trenholm State Community College - $2,066,454.00

H. Trenholm State Community College (Trenholm)'s “Connecting Montgomery:? Bridging the Digital Divide - Closing the Opportunity Gap” project aims to strengthen Trenholm’s ability to serve its students and improve digital equity for thousands of others in its anchor community.

Stillman College - $2,774,257.37

Stillman College’s “Fiber for the Future” project aims to expand educational instruction and remote learning opportunities at the institution. The three project activities are: (1) install a fiber optic broadband network on campus, which will include building out a new fiber and switch upgrade for the college; (2) install a new wireless infrastructure for the campus and local community; and (3) purchase eligible equipment and devices for student use in remote learning situations for dual enrollment students at area high schools.

Alabama State University - $2,999,695.37

The Alabama State University (ASU) “Broadening Access through Community, Connectivity, and Education” (BRACCE) project aims to expand broadband internet access designed to (a) expand online courses and programs, (b) improve the campus digital experience, and (c) develop collaborative community endeavors through broadband access. Project activities will meet the goals in two parts. First, ASU will establish a hybrid cloud infrastructure and maintain a cybersecurity program that provides comprehensive strategic planning, governance, and advisory consulting support. Second, ASU will provide extended wireless network coverage to campus locations that have limited, unreliable, or no wireless access; provide the surrounding anchor community with an innovative digital technology center to provide residents with access to both digital technologies and digital navigation services; and develop a campus-based mobile application that creates a central point of access for students, faculty, staff, and alumni to interact with the University’s systems and activities.

Talladega College - $2,969,121.59

The Talladega College ""Realizing Future Proof Technology to Create Connections between Talladega College’s Students, Faculty and Surrounding Community in Rural Alabama"" project aims to create a broadband network that will provide internet services across the college's campus and extend that into the city of Talladega and portions of Talladega County. This objective will be completed through the following three principal grant activities: (1) conduct a comprehensive technology assessment; (2) design, deploy and install the broadband network; and (3) grow and expand Talladega’s College base of IT, AV, database personnel. Once completed, the broadband network design and deployment is intended to provide a robust, economically viable solution that can deliver much-needed internet access to Talladega College and areas in the community where internet access is limited or unreliable. This project will also provide Talladega Collage with leading edge educational technology and delivery systems to help families in the community that have not been able to participate in virtual learning and provide future services to help foster commercial and industrial development.

Tuskegee University - $3,569,618.00

Tuskegee University’s “ConnecTUvity: Anchoring the Future of Tuskegee with Broadband Technology” project aims to upgrade the campus fiber backbone and upgrade audio-visual equipment and severely outdated equipment in learning spaces to ensure that it is technologically current to support the needs of the campus and students. The project activities will upgrade the Tuskegee University fiber optic network and classroom cabling; enhance the cybersecurity posture at the university by expanding policies, user awareness, and training curriculum offered to faculty, staff, and students; equip STEM and nursing disciplines with technological equipment; and increase the number of Hyflex learning spaces to support hybrid instruction.

University of West Alabama - $1,649,440.00

University of West Alabama (UWA)'s Connects Minority Communities Project aims to enhance broadband access, capacity, and adoption, and increase digital skills in Sumter and Greene Counties through a collaborative partnership of key stakeholders. With enhancements in these areas, the UWA CMC Project will spark new investment, create and cultivate jobs, support existing industry, and promote positive economic development in a rural region.

The UWA Connects Minority Communities Project will build the broadband IT capacity of UWA and upgrade and expand network capabilities of UWA satellite facilities at the Development Center and the West Alabama Center for Conservation and Agriculture. The project will provide broadband education, awareness, training, access, equipment, and support to students and patrons at UWA and tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations in the community. It will improve use of broadband services by eligible MBEs and community-based organizations to deliver digital skills, digital inclusion, workforce development programs, and technology services in anchor communities. Finally, the project will provide digital/connected devices such as laptops, hotspots, tablets, video conferencing rooms to UWA facilities and tax-exempt organizations or eligible institutions in anchor communities for digital skills trainings, facilitation of remote/virtual education, telehealth, etc.

Drake State Community and Technical College - $2,413,182

The Drake State Community and Technical College's Connecting Minority Communities project aims to eliminate historical inequities related to broadband and computer access within the anchor communities in and around Madison County, Alabama. The proposed program will provide access to laptops with broadband access, home broadband access for anchor community members, streamline access to Drake State’s student support resources and online courses, and democratize access to postsecondary education and careers in computer science information systems, cyber security, and cyber defense. With this grant funding, Drake will have the necessary resources to support students’ potential and ambition to earn an Associate’s degree, and for those who desire it, the opportunity to earn an online bachelor’s degree in information technology management or micro-credentials in industry-recognized computer science information certificates.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-800-000-grant-to-birmingham-from-the-department-of-transportation-s-reconnecting-communities-program,"Rep. Sewell Announces $800,000 Grant to Birmingham from the Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities Program",2023-02-28,2023,2023-02,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) announced $800,000 for the City of Birmingham from the Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to reconnect communities that are cut off from opportunity and burdened by past transportation infrastructure decisions. The funding will be used to advance data-driven transportation recommendations to mitigate the negative impacts of existing rail and highway infrastructure on the connectivity of many of Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods, and historically Black communities especially. In June 2022, Rep. Sewell welcomed Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to Birmingham to announce the launch of the Reconnecting Communities Program.

“Last year, I was so excited to welcome Secretary Buttigieg to Birmingham to announce the new Reconnecting Communities pilot program established by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said Rep. Sewell. “Today, I’m even more excited that Birmingham will receive $800,000 under this program. This funding will help make much-needed improvements to the city to increase safety and accessibility and reconnect communities that have been divided by highways and railroads.”

“As the only member of Alabama’s Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I am overjoyed to see investments like these coming to our state,” continued Sewell. “I applaud Secretary Buttigieg and the entire Biden-Harris Administration for utilizing transportation as another tool to help us build a more equitable future.”

“We were proud to welcome U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Congresswoman Terri Sewell to Birmingham in June 2022 to announce this transformative federal program, which seeks to stitch neighborhoods back together that have been cut off from one another by highway and rail infrastructure,” said Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation for investing in Birmingham’s efforts to enhance transit, pedestrian, and cycling infrastructure for our residents and increase access to goods, services, and jobs.”

Background on The Reconnecting Communities Program

The Reconnecting Communities Program provides technical assistance and funding for communities’ planning and construction projects that aim to connect neighborhoods back together by removing, retrofitting, or mitigating transportation barriers such as highways and railroad tracks.

This first round of grants will fund construction and planning for transformative community-led solutions, including capping interstates with parks, filling in sunken highways to reclaim the land for housing, converting inhospitable transportation facilities to tree-lined Complete Streets, and creating new crossings through public transportation, bridges, tunnels, and trails. These projects will help revitalize communities, provide access to jobs and opportunities, and reduce pollution.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-to-welcome-president-joe-biden-to-selma-to-commemorate-58th-anniversary-of-bloody-sunday,Rep. Sewell to Welcome President Joe Biden to Selma to Commemorate 58th Anniversary of Bloody Sunday,2023-02-28,2023,2023-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Selma, AL – On Sunday, March 5, 2023, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) will welcome President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to Selma, Alabama, to commemorate the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday. Rep. Sewell invited President Biden to visit Selma during his 2023 State of the Union Address. The visit comes after President Biden granted Rep. Sewell’s request to increase the federal cost share for FEMA’s public assistance program—including funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures—from 75% to 100% following the January 12th storms.

“I am thrilled that President Biden has accepted my invitation to visit Selma for the 58th anniversary of Bloody Sunday,” celebrated Rep. Sewell. “As Selma continues to recover from the January 12th storms, President Biden’s presence will send a clear message that our community is not alone and shows that the federal government will continue to be a partner in rebuilding Selma and Dallas County. I look forward to welcoming the President to my hometown as we reflect on the sacrifices of the Foot Soldiers in the name of equality and justice for all.”

Additional details are forthcoming.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-500-000-in-funding-to-support-student-initiatives-at-birmingham-southern-college,"Rep. Sewell Announces $500,000 in Funding to Support Student Initiatives at Birmingham-Southern College",2023-02-22,2023,2023-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Sewell fought to secure this funding in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package

Birmingham, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) joined Birmingham-Southern College (BSC) President Daniel B. Coleman and members of the student body to announce $500,000 in federal funding for the Birmingham-Southern College experiential learning and civic engagement student initiative. This funding, which Rep. Sewell fought to secure in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package, will be used to strengthen the institution's ability to facilitate placement in high-impact internships and jobs through multiple offerings of the Krulak Institute for Leadership, Experiential Learning and Civic Engagement on campus.

“I was so proud to present a check for half a million dollars in federal funding to Birmingham-Southern College for experiential learning and student support,” said Rep. Sewell. “My team and I fought hard to ensure that funding for this project was included in this year’s government funding package so that students can benefit from high-impact internships and jobs during their time at BSC and beyond. Birmingham-Southern is a pillar of our community, and I urge our partners at the state and local level to do what they can to support this cherished institution and its students during this critical time.”

At a press conference Wednesday afternoon, Sewell presented a check for $500,000 to BSC President Daniel Coleman and members of the student body. This funding is part of the $42.8 million that Rep. Sewell secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package for local projects in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. Such projects respond directly to some of the most pressing needs in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District and will help reverse decades of disinvestment.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-tours-storm-damage-hosts-disaster-relief-roundtables-in-hale-and-greene-counties,"Rep. Sewell Tours Storm Damage, Hosts Disaster Relief Roundtables in Hale and Greene Counties",2023-02-21,2023,2023-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Eutaw, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) visited Hale and Greene Counties where she toured the damage resulting from the January 12th storms and hosted two disaster relief roundtables with FEMA, the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (EMA), and local Hale, Greene, and Sumter County officials.

“As your representative, I have made it my mission to ensure that our communities get the resources they need to rebuild better and stronger than before,” said Rep. Sewell. “To that end, strengthening our lines of communication and forging partnerships between every level of government are paramount. That’s why I spent the day surveying the damage and hosting disaster relief roundtables here in Hale and Greene Counties.”

“Thanks to our tireless advocacy, additional federal assistance has been granted and is on its way to those who need it,” continued Sewell. “To those affected, know that you are not alone. So long as there is a need, our federal, state, and local officials will continue to band together to offer relief.”

Tuesday morning, Rep. Sewell brought together representatives from FEMA, Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman, and local officials for a Hale County Disaster Relief Roundtable at Akron City Hall to discuss the latest in the recovery process. She then traveled to Greene County where she was joined by State Representative Curtis Travis and Eutaw Mayor Latasha Johnson for a driving tour of the storm damage. Following the tour, Rep. Sewell hosted a Disaster Relief Roundtable at Eutaw City Hall which brought together local officials from Greene and Sumter Counties including Sumter County Commission Chairman Marcus Campbell and Sumter County EMA Director Margaret Gulley. Sewell and officials then held a press conference with representatives from both Greene and Sumter County EMAs and local stakeholders.

Today’s updates by the Congresswoman represent the latest in an ongoing federal, state, and local partnership to recover and rebuild in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District following the January 12th storms. On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100%. This request was granted by President Biden on Thursday, February 9.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.

The Federal Cost Share relates only to public assistance provided to governmental entities and nonprofits and does not include individual assistance. Uninsured individuals in the designated areas can apply for individual assistance by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), downloading the FEMA App, or visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov. The deadline to apply for individual assistance is March 16, 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-52-million-in-epa-funding-from-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-to-expand-access-to-clean-and-safe-drinking-water,Rep. Sewell Announces $52+ Million in EPA Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Expand Access to Clean and Safe Drinking Water,2023-02-16,2023,2023-02,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) announced that the State of Alabama will receive $52,638,000 from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address emerging contaminants like Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Drinking Water across Alabama. This funding was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is part of the EPA’s Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities (EC-SDC) Grant Program and will promote access to safe and clean water in small, rural, and disadvantaged communities while supporting local economies.

“I am thrilled that the Environmental Protection Agency is providing over $52 million to Alabama communities to expand access to clean water in our rural and underserved communities,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am proud to be the only member of the Alabama Congressional Delegation to vote in favor of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because grant programs like this will make a world of difference in the lives of Alabamians. Every American deserves access to safe and clean water, and this investment is a transformative step forward.”

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $5 billion over five years to help communities that are on the frontlines of PFAS contamination reduce PFAS in drinking water. EPA announced the funds for Alabama as part of an allotment of $2 billion to states and territories that can be used to prioritize infrastructure and source water treatment for pollutants, like PFAS and other emerging contaminants, and to conduct water quality testing.

“EPA’s Emerging Contaminants Grant Program is a solid community investment for the Southeast region,” said EPA Region 4 Administrator Daniel Blackman. “The expansion of safe and clean water access to small, rural, and disadvantaged communities is crucial to the protection of human health and the environment.”

EPA is also releasing the Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Implementation document. The implementation document provides states and communities with the information necessary to use this funding to address local water quality and public health challenges. These grants will enable communities to improve local water infrastructure and reduce emerging contaminants in drinking water by implementing solutions such as installing necessary treatment solutions.

Today’s actions represent a significant milestone within the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitments to combat PFAS pollution and safeguard drinking water, and specifically EPA’s October 2021 PFAS Strategic Roadmap. Under the Roadmap, EPA is working across the agency to protect the public from the health impacts of PFAS. EPA has taken a number of actions to deliver progress on PFAS including:

Proposing to designate two PFAS as CERCLA hazardous substances. If finalized, this will be a critical step toward increasing transparency around releases of PFAS and holding polluters accountable for cleaning up their contamination.

Releasing drinking water health advisories. Acting in accordance with EPA’s mission to protect public health and keep communities and public health authorities informed when new science becomes available, the Agency issued drinking water health advisories for four PFAS.

Laying the foundation to enhance data on PFAS. This included an order under EPA’s National PFAS Testing Strategyrequiring companies to conduct PFAS testing, and nationwide sampling through the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule for 29 PFAS in public drinking water systems.

Expanding the scientific understanding of PFAS. The Agency issued more than 30 scientific publications by EPA researchers and released EPA’s PFAS Thermal Treatment Database.

Translating the latest science into EPA’s cross-agency PFAS efforts. This included updating EPA’s contaminated site cleanup tables, developing new PFAS methods and conducting toxicity assessments, and issuing draft national recommended water quality criteria to protect aquatic life.

Continuing engagement with the public. EPA’s PFAS work was informed by public webinars, stakeholder meetings, Congressional testimony, and engagement with EPA’s federal advisory committees.

In addition to this new grant, EPA is also working to propose a PFAS NPDWR in the coming weeks. The draft proposed rule is currently undergoing interagency review and EPA will issue the proposed rule for public comment when it clears the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The agency anticipates finalizing the rule by the end of 2023. Together, with today’s announcement, these actions highlight EPA’s commitments outlined in the PFAS Strategic Roadmap to protect public health and the environment from the impacts of PFAS. They also illustrate the benefits of investing in water—protecting public health and the environment, addressing key challenges facing communities, and creating jobs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-hosts-dallas-county-disaster-relief-update-and-press-conference-with-local-officials,Rep. Sewell Hosts Dallas County Disaster Relief Update and Press Conference with Local Officials,2023-02-14,2023,2023-02,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) hosted the Selma City Council, Selma Mayor, Dallas County Commission, members of the Alabama State Legislature, and other local elected officials at the Selma City Courthouse to provide an update on disaster relief and recovery efforts. Following the update, Rep. Sewell hosted a press conference at 10:30 a.m.

“Today, I am grateful to return to Selma and update our local officials on the critical progress we’ve made in our efforts to recover and rebuild following the storms on January 12th,” said Rep. Sewell. “As we work to develop a long-term recovery plan, I remain dedicated to ensuring that no aspect of our community is left out of this process. It is going to take all of us—local, state, federal, and community partners—working together to reimagine our beloved cities and towns across Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. The road to recovery is a marathon and not a sprint, but only through our collective efforts will we build back better and stronger than before.”

Today’s update by the Congresswoman is the latest in an ongoing federal, state, and local partnership to recover and rebuild in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District following the January 12th storms. On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100%. This request was granted by President Biden on Thursday, February 9.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.

The Federal Cost Share relates only to public assistance provided to governmental entities and nonprofits and does not include individual assistance. Uninsured individuals in the designated areas can apply for individual assistance by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), downloading the FEMA App, or visiting www.DisasterAssistance.gov. The deadline to apply for individual assistance is March 16, 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-100-federal-cost-share-increase-for-fema-public-assistance-from-president-biden-following-january-12th-storms,Rep. Sewell Announces 100% Federal Cost Share for FEMA Public Assistance from President Biden following January 12th Storms,2023-02-09,2023,2023-02,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) announced that President Joseph R. Biden has authorized an increase of 100% Federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance (PA) program for debris removal and emergency protective measures by the counties and cities (governmental entities) included in the Disaster Declaration in response to the severe storms and tornadoes that impacted the State of Alabama on January 12, 2023. Today’s FEMA Major Disaster Declaration Amendment can be found here.

“I am beyond thankful to President Biden for this GREAT NEWS! From the beginning, President Biden has worked swiftly to respond to our calls by expediting the major disaster declaration for the State of Alabama,” said Rep. Sewell. “Now, with this critical increase in FEMA Public Assistance, I am confident that we will build back stronger than before. I thank Governor Ivey and my colleagues in the Alabama Congressional Delegation for their support throughout this process. These critical resources will not only allow us to expedite the cleanup of all the properties destroyed by the storm, but our communities will also have the opportunity to build back stronger and to create a better future for the people of Alabama.”

“I want to thank President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Coach Tommy Tuberville, Senator Katie Britt and Governor Kay Ivey for working together with the City of Selma, Dallas County and the entire tornado destruction area to provide the 100% reimbursement declaration,” said Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. “This is truly a blessing for Selma. Thank you and I thank God for ‘favor’.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.

The Federal Cost Share relates only to public assistance provided to governmental entities and does not include individual assistance. Uninsured individuals in the designated areas who have been impacted by the January 12th storms still must apply for individual assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number forthat service.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-750-000-grant-from-the-national-park-service-to-the-historic-tabernacle-baptist-church-in-selma,"Rep. Sewell Announces $750,000 Grant from the National Park Service to the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma",2023-02-09,2023,2023-02,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 $750,000 in funding through the National Park Service (NPS) for the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, Alabama as a part of a $4.48 million investment to preserve sites that have a history of direct involvement in the fight for equal rights. Funds were awarded through NPS’s Historic Preservation Fund’s History of Equal Rights Grant Program. Each year, Rep. Sewell plays a vital role in securing funding for NPS for historic preservation

“Each year, Congress makes decisions about which federal programs to fund, and as the Representative of America’s Civil Rights District, investing in historic preservation projects to ensure they receive the critical funding they need and deserve remains one of my top priorities,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am thrilled that the historic Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma is receiving this funding to provide necessary updates to the infrastructure. As the site of the first mass meeting of the 1960s Voting Rights Movement, this church remains a living testimony of those giants who fearlessly fought for freedom, equality, and justice for all. By preserving these sites, we are reminded of America’s sordid and storied history and remain inspired by the possibilities of our future.”

Background on the History of Equal Rights Grant Program:

Since its establishment in 1977, the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) has provided more than $2 billion in historic preservation grants to states, Tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Congress appropriates funding for the program through the HPF, which uses revenue from federal oil leases on the Outer Continental Shelf to provide assistance for a broad range of preservation projects without expending tax dollars.

Authorized at $150 million per year, the current legislation authorizing the HPF expires in 2023. Administered by the NPS, HPF funds may be appropriated by Congress to support a variety of historic preservation projects to help preserve the nation’s cultural resources. Congress appropriated funding for the History of Equal Rights grant program in the fiscal year 2022.

“Receiving a History of Equal Rights Grant advances the preservation of the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church Selma's historic site and story. Because of the grant, the Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church,” said Historic Tabernacle Baptist Church Legacy Foundation Inc. Chairwoman, Dr. Verdell Lett Dawson. “Legacy Foundation is ecstatic that we can preserve this influential site and history for current and future generations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/2/rep-sewell-announces-special-guests-for-the-2023-state-of-the-union-address,Rep. Sewell Announces Special Guests for the 2023 State of the Union Address,2023-02-06,2023,2023-02,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Sewell will be joined by the Curry Family of Selma whose home of 50 years was destroyed by the January 12th storms

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her special guests for President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union address will be the Curry Family of Selma, Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Annie Curry lost their home of 50 years as a result of the devastating storms that struck Alabama on January 12th.

“I am honored to have the Curry Family of Selma join me as my special guests for President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union Address,” said Rep. Sewell.“Tragically, the devastating January 12th storms completely destroyed the Currys’ home of over 50 years, displacing them from the place where they raised their five beautiful children.""

“The people of Alabama’s 7th District are strong, and the Curry Family is no exception,” continued Sewell. “The Currys’ presence is emblematic of the resilience of Selmians and will put a spotlight on the dire needs of Selma and Dallas County and our request for additional federal assistance.”

Mr. Thomas Curry was born in Selma, Alabama in 1936. He has served in the United States Air Force for over 30 years, holding multiple leadership positions including Chief Master Sergeant and Pacific Air Forces Executive Manager for Air Force Chapels. His wife, Mrs. Annie Curry, was born in Summerton, South Carolina in 1930. She spent over two decades as a classroom teacher and counselor including 10 years at Selma High School. Thomas and Annie Curry have been married for over 60 years. They have five children and seven grandchildren.

Tragically, the January 12th tornado completely destroyed the Currys’ home of over 50 years, displacing them from the place where they raised their five children. The house has been completely lost, and the Currys are considering their options for rebuilding.

On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter to President Biden requesting that he increase federal assistance to the communities impacted by the January 12th storms by raising the federal cost share for FEMA public assistance—including debris removal and emergency protective measures—to 100%.

President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union address will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, February 7 at 8:00 p.m. CT.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:18:08Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-named-to-the-house-armed-services-committee,Rep. Sewell Named to the House Armed Services Committee,2023-01-31,2023,2023-01,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 she has been appointed to serve on the House Armed Services Committee in the 118th Congress. This is in addition to her appointments to the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Administration Committee.

“The State of Alabama has long played a central role in advancing U.S. defense capabilities, and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am excited to do my part to support the brave men and women working to keep our nation safe and secure,” said Rep. Sewell. “We in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District are proud to be home to Maxwell Air Force Base, the 187th Fighter Wing, the 117th Air Refueling Wing, and countless men and women in uniform that profoundly serve our country. I look forward to leveraging my position on the Armed Services Committee to advocate for their needs in this new Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-announces-191-million-in-federal-funds-from-the-american-rescue-plan-to-expand-broadband-access-in-alabama,Rep. Sewell Announces $191+ Million in Federal Funds from the American Rescue Plan to Expand Broadband Access in Alabama,2023-01-27,2023,2023-01,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 State of Alabama will receive $191.9 million in funding from President Biden and Congressional Democrats’ American Rescue Plan (ARP) to expand broadband access in Alabama. The award, which comes from the ARP’s Capital Projects Fund, will connect an estimated 55,000 households and businesses across the state to high-speed internet. Together with investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this program is helping to close the digital divide, deploying high-speed internet to those without access and lowering costs for those who cannot afford it.

“The COVID-19 pandemic made clear what we already knew—access to affordable, high-speed internet is critical to the success of Alabama’s families and businesses,” said Rep. Sewell. “As the only member of the Alabama Delegation to vote for the historic American Rescue Plan, I’m proud to see that Alabama is finally getting the resources it needs to expand broadband access to our rural and underserved urban communities. In conjunction with robust broadband investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this funding will make a big difference for our state, and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to make broadband access a top priority!”

“The pandemic upended life as we knew it and exposed the stark inequity in access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet in communities across the country, including rural, Tribal, and other underrepresented communities,” said Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo. “This funding is a key piece of the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic investments to increase access to high-speed internet for millions of Americans and provide more opportunities to fully participate and compete in the 21st century economy.”

In accordance with Treasury’s guidance, Alabama’s plan requires service providers to participate in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Affordable Connectivity Program helps ensure that households can afford the high-speed internet they need for work, school, healthcare, and more by providing a discount of up to $30 per month (or up to $75 per eligible household on Tribal lands). Experts estimate that nearly 40% of U.S. households are eligible for the program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-named-to-house-administration-committee-three-ways-and-means-subcommittees-in-the-118th-congress,"Rep. Sewell Named to House Administration Committee, Three Ways and Means Subcommittees in the 118th Congress",2023-01-27,2023,2023-01,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced his committee appointments for the 118th Congress, appointing U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) as a member of the House Administration Committee. Rep. Sewell will continue serving on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee and was appointed to serve on three subcommittees in the new Congress: the Health Subcommittee, Trade Subcommittee, and Worker and Family Support Subcommittee.

“I am honored to be appointed to the House Administration Committee which oversees the operations of the House of Representatives,” said Rep. Sewell. “This Committee also provides oversight of the administration of federal elections and plays a central role in ensuring every American has access to the ballot box. In keeping with the rich voting rights legacy of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District, I am excited to use my position on this committee to advance our critical work of protecting the sacred right to vote for all Americans.”

“I am thrilled to be continuing my service on the House Ways and Means Committee,” continued Sewell. “I remain committed to using my position on this powerful Committee to make our tax code fairer, expand access to affordable health care, protect Medicare, strengthen Social Security, and advance trade policies that uplift communities in Alabama and across the nation.”

The House Administration Committee is charged with the oversight of federal elections and the day-to-day operations of the House of Representatives.

Rep. Sewell has served on the House Committee on Ways and Means since 2017, bringing her more than 15 years of experience as a securities and public finance attorney. The committee is the oldest of the United States Congress, and is the chief tax-writing committee in the House of Representatives. The Committee has jurisdiction over all taxation, tariffs, and other revenue-raising measures, as well as a number of other programs including Social Security, Medicare, unemployment insurance, enforcement of child support laws, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and foster care and adoption programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-leads-alabama-delegation-in-letter-urging-president-biden-to-increase-federal-cost-share-for-fema-public-assistance-to-100-following-january-12th-storms,Rep. Sewell Leads Alabama Delegation in Letter Urging President Biden to Increase Federal Cost Share for FEMA Public Assistance to 100% Following January 12th Storms,2023-01-26,2023,2023-01,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) led members of the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter urging President Biden to increase the federal cost share for the FEMA Public Assistance (PA) program for debris removal and emergency protective measures to 100% in response to the severe storms and tornadoes that impacted the State of Alabama on January 12, 2023. Pursuant to President Biden’s approval of amajor disaster declaration for the State of Alabama, the federal government now covers at least 75% of eligible costs of FEMA public assistance grants for disaster recovery.

“While we are immensely grateful for President Biden’s swift approval of a major disaster declaration, additional federal resources are needed to ensure that our communities can fully recover,” said Rep. Sewell. “So many of our municipalities were still recovering from the financial devastation of Hurricanes Zeta and Sally and the COVID-19 pandemic when the January 12th storms tore through our state. I am proud to lead all nine members of the Alabama Delegation in requesting that President Biden increase the federal cost share for FEMA public assistance from 75 percent to 100 percent, and I thank my colleagues for their strong support.”

“As officials and volunteers work around the clock to get Alabamians back on their feet following recent devastating storms, there is still a long road to recovery ahead,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “I hope President Biden acts swiftly to provide those impacted by the storms with as much support as possible.”

“In the aftermath of the severe weather that devastated our communities on January 12, we have seen the very best of our great state – people have banded together to help their fellow Alabamians recover and rebuild,” said Senator Katie Boyd Britt. “We are grateful for the incredible first responders, law enforcement officers, and volunteers who continue to devote their time, talent, and resources to these valiant efforts. While we appreciate the swift, collaborative support thus far offered by President Biden and FEMA, the situation on-the-ground makes it clear that additional federal resources are both warranted and needed as the recovery process moves forward. My office will continue to be in close contact with local, state, and federal officials to see how we can best support affected families, small businesses, and communities.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. After an event like a hurricane, tornado, earthquake or wildfire, communities need help to cover their costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures, and restoring public infrastructure. The federal share of assistance is at least 75 percent of the eligible cost. More information on the FEMA Public Assistance program can be found here.

Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. CT, Rep. Sewell will host a live telephone town hall regarding disaster assistance available following the January 12th storms. Listeners will hear from Rep. Sewell, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, FEMA Disaster Response and Recovery Chief Jason Nelson, and Alabama EMA Director Jeff Smitherman. Constituents are encouraged to register in advance to receive a call by visiting Rep. Sewell’s official website at sewell.house.gov. Constituents can also join by calling (877) 353-4701 at the time of the event.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-accepting-applications-for-summer-2023-interns,Rep. Sewell Accepting Applications for Summer 2023 Interns,2023-01-18,2023,2023-01,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 summer 2023 interns. College students and recent graduates interested in government and public service are invited to apply for a chance to spend the summer learning about Congress and the inner workings of a congressional office. Throughout the summer, 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 excited to announce that my office is now accepting applications for summer 2023 internships!” said Rep. Sewell. “My office’s internship program is a critical part of our mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders and changemakers. I encourage college students and recent graduates interested in serving the great people of Alabama’s 7th Congressional District to apply for a chance to spend the summer with me and my hard-working team and propel your career to new heights!”

Throughout the summer, 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,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-announces-major-disaster-declaration-granted-by-president-biden-for-the-state-of-alabama-triggering-release-of-federal-assistance,"Rep. Sewell Announces Major Disaster Declaration Granted by President Biden for the State of Alabama, Triggering Release of Federal Assistance",2023-01-15,2023,2023-01,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 President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster in the State of Alabama and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes on January 12, 2023. The President’s action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Dallas and Autauga Counties. The FEMA disaster declaration fact sheet can be viewed here.

“I’m thankful that President Biden has heard our calls and expedited a declaration of major disaster for the State of Alabama following Thursday’s devastating storms,” said Rep. Sewell. “This declaration will free up critical federal resources to relieve, recover and rebuild. I look forward to continuing to partner with Governor Ivey, Alabama’s congressional delegation, as well as state, local, and community stakeholders to use these resources as an opportunity to build back Selma and all the affected areas better for the people of Alabama.”

“The outpouring of support for our communities has been truly heartening, and I join in thanking everyone who has offered their support now and into the future,” continued Sewell. “This will be a marathon, not a sprint, but rest assured we will come back stronger than before.”

Federal assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Federal funding also is available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Autauga and Dallas. Lastly, Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. Deanne Criswell, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security, named Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and additional areas may be designated for assistance after the assessments are fully completed.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

The following FEMA fact sheets are linked below:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-statement-on-tornado-damage-impacting-selma-and-the-black-belt,Rep. Sewell Statement on Tornado Damage Impacting Selma and the Black Belt,2023-01-13,2023,2023-01,Democrat,House,AL,Terri A. Sewell,S001185,sewell.house.gov,sewell,https://sewell.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Selma, AL — U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding the tornado damage impacting Selma, Alabama, and the Black Belt:

“I am devastated and heartbroken by the tornado damage in my hometown of Selma and throughout the Black Belt. My office has already begun coordinating a federal response. I have spoken with the White House, FEMA, and the Small Business Administration as well as state and local officials including Alabama EMA about securing disaster assistance and expediting all available resources. I will be arriving in Selma tonight to survey the damage myself and assist with recovery efforts.

“I am keeping my constituents and all those affected in my prayers. The people of the Black Belt are strong, and we will get through this together!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/rep-sewell-surveys-storm-damage-joins-governor-ivey-and-senator-britt-for-tour-and-press-conference,"Rep. Sewell Surveys Storm Damage, Joins Governor Ivey and Senator Britt for Tour and Press Conference",2023-01-13,2023,2023-01,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) surveyed the storm damage in Selma, Alabama, following Thursday’s devastating tornado. Friday afternoon, Rep. Sewell held a press conference with Governor Kay Ivey and Senator Katie Britt to provide updates on their coordinated response. Rep. Sewell then joined Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. and the Alabama National Guard in a Black Hawk helicopter for an aerial tour of the wreckage impacting the city.

“I want to thank the many first responders, workers, and volunteers who came together to assist with the recovery effort following Thursday’s devastating storm,”said Rep. Sewell. “While the destruction impacting Selma and the Black Belt is widespread, our community is nothing if not strong and resilient. I’m confident that with the close coordination of federal, state, and local partners, we will be able to secure the necessary resources to build our community back better and stronger than before.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z
https://sewell.house.gov/2023/1/reps-sewell-beatty-and-horsford-introduce-the-rosa-parks-day-act-to-designate-dec-1st-as-a-federal-holiday-commemorating-the-arrest-of-rosa-parks,"Reps. Sewell, Beatty, and Horsford Introduce the Rosa Parks Day Act to Designate Dec. 1st as a Federal Holiday Honoring Rosa Parks",2023-01-12,2023,2023-01,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), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), and Steven Horsford (NV-04) led 30 of their House colleagues in introducing the Rosa Parks Day Act to designate December 1st as a federal holiday commemorating the arrest of Rosa Parks. Rep. Sewell was an original co-sponsor of the Rosa Parks Day Act in the 117th Congress and is now leading the introduction of the bill in the 118th Congress.

“For my very first bill in the 118th Congress, I’m proud to be introducing the Rosa Parks Day Act!” said Rep. Sewell. “On December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks sat so that this nation could stand up for the values that our democracy holds so dear. Her quiet, dignified courage helped inspire the Civil Rights Movement and changed this country for the better. As the U.S. Representative for Montgomery, I’m committed to ensuring the memory of Rosa Parks’ brave sacrifice is never forgotten by designating December 1st as a federal holiday in her honor.”

“On December 1st, 1955, Rosa Parks changed the course of history when she refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama – sparking a revolution that ignited the Civil Rights movement. She epitomized the Power of One,” said Rep. Beatty. “Her life and actions on that historic December day more than 50 years ago have inspired people across the country and around the world to stand up against discrimination and work peacefully to create a more just and fair society.”

Beatty continued, “As a state legislator, I was proud to lead the push to make the Buckeye State the first state to officially recognize Rosa Parks Day. It's now time for us to come together as a nation to honor this American hero through a new national holiday.”

“Rosa Parks is an icon in the story of civil rights and justice for Black Americans,” said Rep. Steven Horsford, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. “Her brave and bold actions helped launch a movement for progress and equality, and her story must continue to be told as part of our nation’s history. I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation to designate December 1st as Rosa Parks Day, to ensure that all Americans recognize the struggles we have endured as a nation to create a more perfect union.” – Congressman Steven Horsford, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus

On December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger. Her arrest helped spark the Montgomery Bus Boycott, one of the most consequential events of the Civil Rights Movement. While several states have adopted their own holiday honoring Mrs. Parks, there is currently no federal holiday recognizing her contribution to the Civil Rights Movement and to our nation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:08:17Z