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://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-releases-2023-year-end-wrap-highlights-bipartisan-accomplishments-and,"Davids Releases 2023 Year-End Wrap, Highlights Bipartisan Accomplishments and Community Engagement",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Image

December 21, 2023

Today, Representative Sharice Davids shared how her office worked throughout 2023 to make government work for all Kansans, both by passing critical bipartisan legislation and connecting directly with residents of the Kansas Third all year long.

“Reflecting on 2023, our community saw challenges and successes — but throughout the year, I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to make a real impact on folks’ lives,” said Davids. “Thousands of Kansans reached out to share their thoughts, experiences, and concerns with our office, helping my team and me do our jobs better. I look forward to building upon our progress in 2024 as we continue working to lower costs for hardworking Kansans and ensure the federal government works for everyday folks, not special interests.”

2023 BY THE NUMBERS:

Staying Connected:

Responded to more than 124,000 constituent messages — communicating with an average of 340 Kansans each day.

Since being sworn in, Davids has sent 588,500 responses to constituents.

Led 9 large-format, public conversations, from telephone town halls to Facebook Lives, contacting more than 146,500 constituents.

Sent more than 300,000 text messages to constituents sharing resources and asking for feedback on how to lower costs and improve public safety.

Hosted 214 private constituent meetings in Kansas’ Third District and Washington, D.C., listening to the priorities of Kansans.

Since being sworn in, Davids has hosted 1,039 private constituent meetings.

Scheduled 791 U.S. Capitol tours and helped deliver 299 American Flags to Kansans, 32 of which were flown over the U.S. Capitol building.

Solving Problems:

Resolved 1,650 constituent cases, helping Kansans with passports, delayed veterans’ or social security benefits, taxes, and more.

Since being sworn in, Davids has helped resolve more than 6,280 constituent cases.

Returned $5.4 million to constituents and local businesses in overdue tax returns, Social Security benefits, and more.

Since being sworn in, Davids has helped return more than $17 million to constituents.

Hosted 89 Pop Up Offices in all corners of Kansas’ Third District, from Kansas City, KS to Garnett, to help Kansans navigate the federal government.

Getting Bipartisan Results:

Co-sponsored 236 pieces of legislation, 72 percent of which are bipartisan.

Introduced eight original pieces of legislation, one of which passed the House to support veteran small business owners.

Worked five “Sharice’s Shifts” alongside local workers to highlight the impact and implementation of recent federally passed legislation, including the bipartisan infrastructure law.

Other Davids-supported legislative achievements included the creation of 20,000 new clean energy jobs and the KC area being named one of 31 Regional Tech Hubs.

Focusing on the Third:

Made 11 stops on a Farm Bill Listening Tour to listen directly to Kansas’ farmers, ranchers, and producers as Davids, a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, prepared for the 2023 Farm Bill consideration process.

Tour stops were located in all five counties in Kansas’ Third District.

Secured $11.1 million in approved investments for 15 projects to improve health and safety in the Third District, including clean drinking water in Olathe, new police training vehicles for Johnson County Community College, and reconstruction of the structurally deficient Kansas Avenue Bridge, which connects Kansas to Missouri.

Facilitated three Panasonic community conversations with local elected leaders and business professionals to prepare for expected community growth in Johnson County.

Davids brought federal officials from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Federal Highway Administration, and Economic Development Administration to share their expertise.

Brought millions of dollars in grant funding to the Third District for critical needs from hiring additional law enforcement officers to improving road safety for drivers to lowering utility costs for hardworking Kansans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-visits-overland-park-arts-education-program-highlights-federal,"Davids Visits Overland Park Arts Education Program, Highlights Federal Investments to Create Jobs, Support Kansans with Disabilities",2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OVERLAND PARK, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids visited a local arts education center to highlight how federal investments are creating good-paying jobs and providing education to Kansans of all backgrounds. Davids toured the Emerging Artists Program, which received American Rescue Plan investments to sponsor art therapy scholarships and support adult artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Davids was the only member of the Kansas delegation to support this legislation.

“Today, I saw firsthand how legislation I supported in Congress has created good-paying jobs in Johnson County and strengthened educational opportunities for all Kansans,” said Davids. “These targeted investments help foster an environment where everyone, including the artists I met today, can grow, succeed, and prosper. I am proud to collaborate with our dedicated local and state leaders in securing federal investments that will leave a lasting, positive impact for years to come.""

“Johnson County had a very thoughtful, strategic, and equitable process to invest millions of COVID-19 federal funds into our community, and I hope we can all appreciate seeing outcomes of how these investments are making life better for our residents,” said Mike Kelly, Chairman, Johnson County Board of County Commissions. “We are grateful for Representative Davids and those that helped empower this federal and local partnership that allowed us to invest in Johnson County in so many ways, including arts and culture. Specifically, I am pleased to see how providing funds for art therapy is enriching the lives of people in our community, contributing to their mental health and creative expression.”

Thanks to the Davids-supported American Rescue Plan, Johnson County received $117 million to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including to support schools, students, and childcare programs. In February 2023, the County allocated $2,073,520 to fund community programs that address struggling creative small businesses. Among those allocations, the Arts Council of Johnson County received $884,900 to provide grants for artists and arts organizations, including the Emerging Artists Program. Emporia State University also received $721,890 to place art therapists in classrooms and provide art therapy certifications in Johnson County.

In 2021, Davids voted for the American Rescue Plan to bring targeted COVID relief to the state and strengthen and expand the local childcare workforce. Kansas provided $53 million in ARP funds for bonus payments of up to $2,500 to an estimated 22,650 early childhood care staff members across the state. The law has also supported small businesses and Kansas families:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-participates-chimney-service-apprenticeship-highlights-efforts,"Davids Participates in Chimney Service Apprenticeship, Highlights Efforts to Strengthen Kansas Workforce",2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SPRING HILL, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids shadowed apprentices at Full Service Chimney to highlight her efforts to strengthen Kansas’ workforce. Davids has voted to support the U.S. Department of Labor’s Registered Apprenticeship Program, which helps place workers in jobs at Full Service Chimney and dozens of other companies in Kansas’ Third District. Apprenticeships help close the wage gap between high school and college graduates and have an average return on investment of $1.44 for every $1.00 spent.

“Today I got to see exactly how the Registered Apprenticeship Program helps Kansas businesses fill in-demand jobs and Kansas employees get the skills they need for a successful career,” said Davids. “I’ve long been an advocate for these effective programs and will continue advocating for their support as we implement recently passed federal legislation here in Kansas. By supporting our workforce needs, we can better compete against countries like China and lower costs for Kansas families and businesses.”

“After working at the Railroad for many years, I wanted a good job with regular hours and good pay,” said Jessie Lawrence, Journeyman and previous apprentice. “At Full Service Chimney, I found both, and an apprenticeship I could build a career with. As one of the first to complete the apprenticeship and become a journeyman, I have found this to be my career path, and look forward to helping others along the way.”

“Since we invested in the apprenticeship program, we’ve attracted and retained higher quality employees,” said Robert Berry, Owner and Master Chimney Sweep, Full Service Chimney. “Individuals who seek out these programs are future focused with a serious commitment toward serving the company and community, which is apparent to management and more importantly to our customers. The outlook for Full Service Chimney has never been brighter, due in no small part to the implementation of our Registered Apprenticeship Program.”

Davids shadowed chimney service apprentices as they learned to mason brick chimneys and pour concrete chimney toppers at Full Service Chimney’s training warehouse in Spring Hill. Davids shared her efforts to expand access to good-paying jobs and workforce training opportunities through Registered Apprenticeships, which have been shown to be the most successful approach to growing a highly skilled workforce for in-demand occupations. 93 percent of these apprentices are employed upon completion, earning an average starting wage of $70,000 a year.

“The Registered Apprenticeship has made it possible for us, as the employer to better reach candidates with skillsets we need to run a successful operation,” said Jennifer Martinez, Apprenticeship Sponsor, Full Service Chimney. “As of now, 44 percent of our apprentices are military veterans and we are so proud to be able to attract such talent to our team. Thanks to programs like Kansas Works and their local Workforce Partnerships connecting us with the Transition Assistance Program at Fort Leavenworth. That has really helped us gain traction in our efforts to reach military members who are looking to transition into a new career path!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-secures-new-investments-improve-road-safety-kansas-third,Davids Secures New Investments to Improve Road Safety in the Kansas Third,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced $1.75 million is coming to Kansas’ Third District to improve roads and address traffic fatalities. The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program was established by the bipartisan infrastructure law, which Davids was the only member of the Kansas delegation to support, to redesign roads and streets to prevent deaths and serious injuries.

Last year, Davids released a report examining the state of transportation safety in the Third District of Kansas. It found 21 percent of Kansas’ pedestrian crash related deaths in 2020 happened in the Third District.

“One Kansan loses their life every 20 hours to a motor vehicle accident. These deaths are preventable with the right policy approach,” said Davids. “These new investments from the bipartisan infrastructure law will help make streets across northeast Kansas safer for everyone, including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and emergency and construction workers.”

Six cities and one county received funding to keep drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians safe. The awardees include:

Johnson County’s Action Plan Development - $240,000

Leawood’s Vision Zero Action Plan - $452,000

Mission’s Transportation Safety Action Plan - $160,000

Overland Park’s Transportation Safety Action Plan - $500,000

Paola’s Transportation Safety Action Plan - $120,000

Prairie Village’s Transportation Safety Action Plan - $80,000

Spring Hill’s Safe Streets for All Action Plan - $200,000

“Safety is key in Overland Park, and one of the reasons residents choose to live in our great community,” said Curt Skoog, Mayor, Overland Park. “This funding will help us learn what types of traffic safety measures will be most effective to keep the community safe. I’m thankful to Representative Davids and the Kansas Department of Transportation’s partnership on this important project.”

“The City of Leawood is pleased to receive support under the Safe Street and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program to develop City of Leawood Vision Zero Action Plan,” Peggy Dunn, Mayor, City of Leawood. “The City will use the federal funds to develop a plan for improved pedestrian and vehicle safety to make the city more walkable and bike-friendly with a safer transportation system that serves everyone.”

""The City of Mission, Kansas, was pleased to have the opportunity to submit a grant through the Safe Streets and Roads for All Program to complete this important Safety Action Plan and to know the request was supported by Representative Davids,” said Sollie Flora, Mayor, City of Mission. “The timing of the grant aligns perfectly with an update to our Comprehensive Plan, where one of the key features is analysis of the transportation network to identify opportunities to support multimodal transportation. Emphasizing walking, driving, bicycling, and public transit will improve transportation options for all users, as safe streets encourage multimodal transportation by offering safe, attractive, and convenient alternatives to car travel.""

“This SS4A planning level grant will help the City of Prairie Village to further study traffic safety items throughout the city limits,” said Keith Bredehoeft, Public Works Director, City of Prairie Village. “The study will help guide future planning in Prairie Village will help prevent future fatality accidents. This planning level grant will also allow us to submit for future construction grants potentially available under the SS4A program as well.”

“We were ecstatic to learn that we received the SS4A, Transportation Safety Action Plan grant,” said Randi Shannon, City Manager, City of Paola. “After the City completed the Planning Paola Comprehensive Plan in 2022, the council and staff have been able to better prioritize what the community needs, and from the citizen input, what they want to see us use our time and resources for. Therefore, we are striving to improve quality of life by improving transportation safety for all users and abilities. Receiving this grant allows us to continue the momentum from adoption of the comprehensive plan and develop a Transportation Safety Action Plan for our community.”

""The City of Spring Hill is extremely grateful for being selected to receive the SS4A grant funding."" said Lane Massey, City Administrator, City of Spring Hill. ""These funds are the first step in developing a safety action plan along the K7 corridor. This plan will help define roadway safety issues that impact the safety of our citizens and the tens of thousands of Kansans that travel through this region on-a-daily basis. We look forward to this project and how this plan will impact the K7 corridor.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-passes-davids-bipartisan-bill-help-individuals-recovering-substance,U.S. House Passes Davids’ Bipartisan Bill to Help Individuals Recovering from Substance Abuse Reenter Workforce,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Sharice Davids’ bipartisan legislation to address the impact of substance abuse on America’s workforce. The legislation would reauthorize the Comprehensive Addiction Recovery through Effective Employment and Reentry (CAREER) Act, which supports individuals recovering from substance use disorder, ensuring they can reenter the workforce and maintain gainful employment. Originally introduced alongside Representative Andy Barr (R-KY-06), the bill was passed as part of the bipartisan Support for Patients and Communities Reauthorization (SUPPORT) Act.

“Substance abuse has affected far too many Kansas families, and we must ensure those recovering from addiction are supported and have access to good-paying jobs,” said Davids. “Today, my colleagues from both sides of the aisle joined me in helping those folks recovering from substance abuse find employment and live independently. There are so many local organizations who walk alongside our neighbors in recovery, and I’m proud to support their mission through the CAREER Act.”

Davids’ CAREER Act would reauthorize the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Treatment, Recovery and Workforce Support Grant Program, which helps determine workforce gaps and coordinate employment and training activities for individuals in recovery. The reauthorization would also increase funding for the program and allow the grants to be used for transportation between work, training, and recovery services.

In 2018, the CAREER Act was also included in the bipartisan SUPPORT Act, which empowered local communities and law enforcement to fight the opioid epidemic. Along with Davids’ workforce-focused legislation, today’s updated SUPPORT Act includes six bills from the Bipartisan Mental Health & Substance Use Disorder Task Force agenda, including legislation to support pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorder, include fentanyl or xylazine test strips as an allowable use of funds in states where they are legal, and expand Medicaid reimbursement for larger mental health centers.

""The CAREER Act has played a key role in supporting workforce development, vocational training, and skill-building in our communities,"" said Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06). ""By renewing its authorization, we can make this essential program even more effective, ensuring American workers have what they need to thrive in today's job market. Given the ongoing battle our nation faces with substance abuse, especially the opioid crisis in Kentucky, it's crucial that we focus on helping and providing resources to those working towards recovery.""

To ensure a safer and healthier community, Davids has made it a priority to address the opioid and fentanyl epidemic head-on. She hosted multiple summits with law enforcement, health care workers, and education professionals on combatting the fentanyl epidemic and has taken a number of legislative actions based on the specific needs of the Kansas Third District, including:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-highlights-approved-funding-request-replace-outdated-traffic-signal,"Davids Highlights Approved Funding Request to Replace Outdated Traffic Signal Controllers, Streetlights in Overland Park",2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids visited Overland Park to highlight her recently approved federal funding request to update approximately 190 traffic signal controllers that are too old for future maintenance. This project, which is one of 15 Davids-sponsored requests, would improve safety for drivers and help ensure the city’s systems are less susceptible to cyber threats. Davids was joined by Overland Park City Council President Jim Kite and City Traffic Engineer Brian Shields to view the project, which includes street lighting improvements.

“In our community and across the country, we are seeing too many traffic accidents, some being fatal, due to outdated infrastructure and technology meant to keep us safe,” said Davids. ""While the bipartisan infrastructure law continues to invest in safer infrastructure, Overland Park’s current traffic system is too old for maintenance — putting drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk. I'm glad to work with our local officials to bring federal investments home and make our communities safer, more efficient, and better equipped to keep up with our growing community.”

""Representative Davids has been a great partner in the City of Overland Park's efforts to enhance traffic and pedestrian safety in the community,” said Jim Kite, President, Overland Park City Council. “We thank her for her work to move this project forward and hope to continue collaborating for the community in the future.""

Overland Park’s current traffic signal controllers, which conduct real-time road traffic control in accordance with the time of day and traffic conditions, are not capable of being upgraded and supported by the manufacturer due to old age. This poses a significant safety and security risk for the city as the traffic signal network helps ensure that thousands of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians can commute to work, school, and home each day. Davids’ request to replace 190 older traffic signal controllers, as well as replace street lighting, would contribute to the safety of Kansans at all times of day and decrease the threat of cyber-attacks.

More information on the City of Overland Park’s funding request can be found here. Each of the 15 Davids-requested projects was submitted in conjunction with local officials and selected for their potential to improve health and safety in the community, tackle climate change, and bring economic opportunity to the Third District. Appropriations requests are subject to strict transparency and accountability rules, which can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-helps-lower-health-care-costs-during-current-open-enrollment,WATCH: Davids Helps Lower Health Care Costs During Current Open Enrollment Period,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"During the current open enrollment period, Kansans can take advantage of health care savings that Representative Sharice Davids voted to support in recent years. Thanks to those efforts, the number of uninsured Americans has reached an all-time low and Kansans can save an average of $780 in premiums this year. Open enrollment runs until December 15 for coverage starting January 1, and Kansans can sign up for a new plan or adjust or cancel a current plan.

“The burden of high health insurance costs has persisted for far too long, forcing hardworking Kansans to make difficult choices between necessary health care and other essential needs. To fix that, I’ve voted for legislation that is actively lowering these health costs, saving some Kansans an average of $780 this year,” said Davids. “I encourage anyone seeking new health insurance or exploring potentially more affordable options to visit HealthCare.gov during this open enrollment period.""

WATCH: KSHB reports on Davids’ efforts to lower health care costs

Image

Davids voted for the Inflation Reduction Act (2022) and the American Rescue Plan (2021), federal laws that are helping save Kansans thousands of dollars on their health plans. Specifically:

Kansas’ Third District

In 2023, an estimated 35,000 people in the district enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace health insurance coverage.

Thanks to this federal legislation, the average enrollee in the district will save $780 in premiums this year.

Nationally

Thanks to this federal legislation, nearly 6 million new people enrolled in marketplace coverage during 2021 and 2022, with 80 percent of these enrollees having access to a plan for $120 or less per year.

Because of the lower health costs, the number of uninsured Americans reached an all-time low of 8 percent in 2022 and the total number of ACA marketplace enrollees reached a record high of 16.4 million in 2023.

The Inflation Reduction Act and American Rescue Plan are helping Americans purchase affordable health insurance coverage on the ACA marketplaces. The American Rescue Plan first ensured that no one will pay more than 8.5 percent of their household income to purchase health insurance coverage. The Inflation Reduction Act then continued these savings through 2025, preventing millions of marketplace enrollees from facing steep increases in their premium payments.

Thanks to this federal legislation:

A 60-year-old couple with a household income of $80,000 would save $17,041 in premiums for health insurance coverage per year.

A family with a 35-year-old single parent with one child and a household income of $30,000 would save $1,272 in premiums for health insurance coverage per year.

A family with two 40-year-old adults, two children, and a household income of $75,000 would save $3,096 in premiums for health insurance coverage per year.

Open enrollment is a period that occurs once a year when Americans can sign up for federal health insurance, adjust their current plan, or cancel a plan. For coverage starting January 1, individuals must sign up by December 15. If this deadline is missed, individuals can sign up by January 15 for coverage starting February 1. After January 15, individuals can enroll in or change plans only if they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Kansans can visit HealthCare.gov to find more information on health plans that make sense for them and their families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-reps-davids-d-ks-alford-r-mo-tout-passage-their-bipartisan-bill-help,"ICYMI: Reps. Davids (D-KS), Alford (R-MO) Tout Passage of their Bipartisan Bill to Help Veteran Business Owners Succeed",2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Mark Alford’s (R-MO-04) SERV Act with overwhelming bipartisan support. The bill would help veteran small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed by studying the barriers faced when starting a business and boosting the outreach and promotion of existing veteran-focused small business programs to ensure they can access all available resources, capital, and credit. Davids, whose mother served in the U.S. Army for 20 years, originally introduced the legislation in 2019, when it first passed the House with broad bipartisan support.

While military experience provides transferable entrepreneurial training and skills, the number of veterans starting their own businesses has decreased drastically over the last few decades. Today, only 4.5 percent of the more than 3.6 million veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 have launched a company. In contrast, the number of World War II and Korean War veterans who went on to operate a business was 50 and 40 percent, respectively. Reasons for this decline include challenges accessing credit, transitioning to civilian life, and overcoming stigmas around physical disabilities and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Davids and Alford’s efforts to support veteran business owners made headlines across the region:

Kansas City Star: “KS Democrat and MO Republican team up to pass bill to help veterans start businesses”

“On Tuesday night, the House unanimously passed a bill sponsored by Alford and Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, that did just that.

[…]

‘The problem is a lot of times people don’t know about it, veterans don’t know,’ Davids said. ‘And so, we’re like, the effort here is to just make sure that we’re bringing all of those resources, the information about the resources to light and making sure that there’s kind of like a one stop shop almost for people to be able to find that stuff.’

This is the first bill Davids, who is in her third term, and Alford, who is in his first term, have teamed up on. But they said other bills, including one focused on agriculture, are in the works. Both also serve on the House Agriculture Committee together.”

KSHB: “Alford, Davids lead bipartisan support for SERV Act in Washington, D.C.”

“The elected leaders said the vote shows there is unity and cooperation in Washington, D.C. — a city often under a cloud of partisan dysfunction.

‘There are times when republicans and democrats are able to come together and work on really good legislation,’ Davids said during a Zoom interview while sitting in the same room as Alford.

Both members of congress represent the greater Kansas City area. They also serve on the House Committee on Agriculture together.

‘It was a very special moment, I think, not just for Sharice and I, but also for veterans and for the American people,’ Alford said.”

KCUR: “LISTEN: A Missouri Republican and Kansas Democrat team up to help veterans become business owners”

“In effort to understand the decline in small business ventures by former service members, U.S. Reps. Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) and Mark Alford (R-Missouri), both members of the House Small Business Committee, co-sponsored the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act (SERV Act).

The legislation passed the U.S. House on Tuesday night.

[…]

‘We'll have almost like a one-stop shop situation for our veterans. So that they're not having to look in five different places for these resources,’ said Davids.

Davids previously introduced the SERV Act in 2019. The bill passed through the House with bipartisan support but did not pass the Senate.”

KCTV News:

“Veterans who serve our country need jobs when they come back home. Now, two lawmakers from the Kansas City area are working across the aisle to make it easier for veteran small business owners to be successful. Kansas Democrat Sharice Davids’ mother served for 20 years. She and Missouri Republican Mark Alford are putting a bipartisan effort behind the SERV Act.

‘When it comes to our veteran communities, these guys, I mean, they’ve got grit. They’ve got leadership skills,’ [said Davids].

‘If we can help one veteran start one business, then we’ve succeeded,’ [said Alford].”

Kansas Reflector: “Davids, Alford lead bipartisan effort for bill aimed at helping veterans launch small businesses”

“‘Veterans possess many of the entrepreneurial skills needed to start and run a successful small business, but we must do a better job of helping them transition from service to business,’ Davids said. ‘The SERV Act not only honors our veterans … it empowers our veterans to embark on a new chapter as entrepreneurs and small business owners.’

[…]

‘The Small Business Administration has many different programs aimed at helping veteran entrepreneurs, but these programs are only useful if veterans know about them,’ Davids said.

In July, Alford and Davids reintroduced the SERV Act originally offered by Davids in 2019. It cleared the House at that time, but not the Senate.

Congressional hearings in 2023 put a spotlight on the argument SBA could do more to assist veterans interested in operating a business, Alford said.

‘One of the biggest barriers for entrepreneurs, especially for our veterans, is accessing capital,’ he said. ‘It is a critical component when starting a business and one of the biggest challenges throughout a small business’s lifespan.’”

KWCH:

“Some members of Congress are working to help veteran small business owners succeed. It comes as roughly 25 percent of veterans report difficulties transitioning back to civilian life. Now both Kansas Representative Sharice Davids and Missouri Republican Mark Alford are putting bipartisan effort behind the SERV Act. The Act aims to streamline capital and counseling to veteran entrepreneurs.

[…]",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-urges-swift-passage-faa-reauthorization-improve-consumer,"WATCH: Davids Urges Swift Passage of FAA Reauthorization to Improve Consumer Protections, Safety for Air Travelers",2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during a U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing, Representative Sharice Davids urged her House and Senate colleagues to work together on a bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization that improves customer protections and accessibility while flying, increases America’s aviation safety standards, and strengthens domestic aviation workforce and manufacturing. The U.S. House passed an FFA reauthorization this past July, but the bill has stalled in the Senate and the current extension expires at the end of this year.

“Our entire economy relies heavily on reliable air travel of people and goods to keep our communities moving and maintain a strong domestic supply chain,” said Davids. “I’m focused on reauthorizing the FAA, so Kansans are protected financially, feel safe while flying, and have access to good-paying aviation manufacturing jobs. While this reauthorization has cleared the House, the Senate should now pass their version, so we can work together — Republicans and Democrats — on a final compromise that averts staffing shortages and supply chain backlogs.”

In July, Davids supported bipartisan legislation to fund the FAA for the next five years and provide new guidance and standards for the agency. Along with the improvements to consumer protection, safety, and workforce mentioned above, it also included provisions to help reduce runway near misses, which are often caused by air traffic controllers being stretched thin by the current nationwide staffing shortage. After the Senate passes their version of the bill, the House and Senate will come together to find a compromise that reauthorizes the FAA.

To highlight the urgency of passing an FAA reauthorization bill, Davids previously toured New Century AirCenter’s 81-year-old air traffic control center, which Johnson County officials have prioritized for upgrade due to structural and safety deficiencies. If the FAA authorization was to expire, airports like New Century AirCenter would suffer due to the loss of air traffic controllers and increased safety concerns.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-reps-davids-d-ks-alford-r-mo-bipartisan-bill-help-veteran,"House Passes Reps. Davids (D-KS), Alford (R-MO) Bipartisan Bill to Help Veteran Business Owners Succeed",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Mark Alford’s (R-MO-04) SERV Act with overwhelming bipartisan support. The bill would help veteran small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed by studying the barriers faced when starting a business and boosting the outreach and promotion of existing veteran-focused small business programs to ensure veterans can access all available resources, capital, and credit. Davids, whose mother served in the U.S. Army for 20 years, originally introduced the legislation in 2019, when it first passed the House with broad bipartisan support.

""Veterans possess many of the entrepreneurial skills needed to start and run a successful small business, but we must do a better job of helping them transition from service to business,"" said Davids. ""I'm proud to have worked across party and state lines with Representative Mark Alford, so we can help connect veterans with all the small business resources available to them and better address the barriers veteran entrepreneurs face.”

“I am incredibly proud to have worked on this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Sharice Davids in our neighboring district and see our colleagues in the House pass it,” said Representative Mark Alford (MO-04). “Lieutenant Commander Taylor Burks testified in front of the Committee so we could learn how the Committee and SBA can better serve those who served this nation. The SERV Act is our response to the need for improved outreach and resources for Veteran-owned small businesses.”

Davids and Alford introduced the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act (SERV Act) to study the barriers veterans face when starting a business and improve the accessibility of existing veteran-focused small business programs. The bill previously passed out of the U.S. House Small Business Committee unanimously and now awaits a vote in the Senate. Specifically, it:

Commissions a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the ability of veteran and reservist small business owners to access credit.

This includes a new analysis on common sources of credit and how deployment and other military responsibilities affect veterans' and reservists' credit.

Requires the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to develop an action plan for outreach and promotion of the many programs available to veterans looking to transition into the business world.

Requires the task force to report annually to Congress on its appointments and outline its plan for outreach on the many programs available to veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, and their spouses.

While military experience provides transferable entrepreneurial training and skills, the number of veterans starting their own business has decreased drastically over the last few decades. Today, only 4.5 percent of the more than 3.6 million veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 have launched a company. In contrast, the number of World War II and Korean War veterans who went on to operate a business was 50 and 40 percent, respectively. Reasons for this decline include challenges accessing credit, transitioning to civilian life, and overcoming stigmas around physical disabilities and post-traumatic stress disorder.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-us-department-commerce-discuss-bipartisan-law-create-manufacturing-jobs,"Davids, U.S. Department of Commerce Discuss Bipartisan Law to Create Manufacturing Jobs, Lower Costs",2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OVERLAND PARK, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids hosted a roundtable discussion with U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) senior advisor J.D. Grom, local elected officials, manufacturers, and researchers to discuss how semiconductor manufacturing investments from the bipartisanCHIPS and Science Act are bringing jobs to Kansas, lowering costs for consumers, and boosting domestic supply chains. The law, forwhich Davids served as a key negotiatoralongside Senator Jerry Moran, also includes support for small- and medium-sized manufacturers, a Davids-led priority that ensures funding is distributed beyond large corporations.

“The chips shortage we saw over the past few years further demonstrated our need to make more goods here at home, ensuring Kansans aren’t bearing the financial burden of supply chain disruptions,” said Davids. “The bipartisan manufacturing law I helped negotiate alongside Senator Jerry Moran has already prompted multiple private companies to announce new projects in Kansas, creating good-paying jobs here at home. I appreciate the U.S. Department of Commerce’s efforts to learn directly from Kansans today to ensure these federal investments are adequately felt in our local community.”

“Through the CHIPS and Science Act, we have a historic opportunity to revitalize America’s semiconductor manufacturing industry and invest in new semiconductor research and development, while creating thousands of jobs along the way,” said J.D. Grom, Senior Advisor to the Secretary on CHIPS Implementation, U.S. Department of Commerce. “I’m glad I was able to join Representative Davids to discuss how this legislation will help strengthen our domestic supply chains, spur new innovation and ideas, and boost American manufacturing across the United States.”

Semiconductors, or chips, are necessary components of many everyday items including cars, smartphones, and medical devices, but only 12 percent are currently manufactured domestically - down from 37 percent in the 1990s. This lack of domestic manufacturing of chips proved harmful during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing a chips shortage and raising prices on necessary goods.

During today’s conversation, which took place at Johnson County Community College, Davids and Grom heard from local business, government, and manufacturing leaders on how they plan to utilize these federal investments from the CHIPS and Science Act to support the local economy in the greater Kansas City area. Grom also shared what the DOC is doing to implement the new programs created by the law to ensure local communities feel their impacts efficiently and where they’re needed most.

As part of her negotiations on this bill, Davids visited with local businesses about how the chips shortage affects their daily operations. She visited Cherub Medical Supplies, a Shawnee-based supplier of pediatric medical devices, that grappled with long delays. She also toured the local General Motors Fairfax Assembly & Stamping Plant, which idled for several months due to the shortage, forcing their 2,000 workers to stay home. Davids then hosted U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Kansas to highlight how federal legislation, including the CHIPS and Science Act, is helping to bring Panasonic to De Soto.

The CHIPS and Science Act is:

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

Creating 100,000 new, good-paying jobs nationwide – supporting local workforce development.

Reducing America’s dependence on foreign manufacturers – bringing critical semiconductor manufacturing back home.

Turbocharging American research and development – ensuring that the technologies of the future are made here at home.

The greater Kansas City region was recently announced as a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub (Tech Hub), one of 31 inaugural Tech Hubs across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors.

Multiple companies recently announced new chips production facilities in Kansas and have applied to receive CHIPS and Science Act investments. As part of her effort to bring available federal resources home to Kansas, Davids encouraged the U.S. Department of Commerce to fully consider EMP Shield’s application. While initial federal allotments have not been released, the CHIPS and Science Act has already boosted investments in local communities, including:

$231 billion in private sector investments to build semiconductors;

Nearly 530 statements of interest received for projects across 42 states;

More than 50 community colleges announced new or expanded semiconductor workforce programs;

Student applications to full-time jobs posted by semiconductor companies increased 79 percent in 2022-2023, compared to just 19 percent for other industries.

Along with Davids and Grom, attendees of today’s roundtable discussion include:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-local-leaders-tour-kansas-small-businesses-ahead-small-business,"Davids, Local Leaders Tour Kansas Small Businesses ahead of Small Business Saturday",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"MISSION, KS– Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for a tour of locally-owned businesses in Mission, KS. As Small Business Saturday is four days away, Davids, SBA Regional Administrator Mindy Brissey, and Johnson County Commissioner Becky Fast visited Sandhills Brewing and Mission: Board Games, small businesses located along Johnson Drive. Davids serves as a member of the U.S. House Small Business Committee.

“Kansas small businesses are at the heart of our community and our economy, especially during the busy holiday season,” said Davids. “I’ll continue standing up for local small business owners through my role on the U.S. House Small Business Committee, so they can support our economy, their families, and their employees. This Small Business Saturday and throughout the season, I hope we can embrace a sense of community spirit by choosing to shop locally in the Kansas Third District.""

“Local entrepreneurs really form the pulse of Greater Kansas City, playing a crucial role in shaping the distinctive character of the region and contributing to its economic vitality,” said Mindy Brissey, Regional Administrator, SBA Region XII.

Last year, Davids released a report on the recent local small business growth. She also shared what she is doing in Congress to support that growth, including voting to strengthen domestic supply chains and introducing legislation to support women and veteran business owners. Key findings include:

In 2021, 10,600 new business applications were filed in Kansas’ Third District, up from an average of 7,500 since 2019.

The Kansas Small Business Development Center served 1,203 clients in 2021, leading to $49 million in annual sales, 876 jobs created, and 24 new businesses.

In 2021, small businesses in Kansas’ Third District made up 92.2 percent of all district employers, with 16,173 small businesses employing 175,911 people.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-new-district-director-kansas-office,Davids Announces New District Director for Kansas Office,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced Anne Hucker, a longtime resident of the Kansas City area, will serve as Davids’ new District Director for Kansas’ Third Congressional District. Hucker will lead a dedicated team working to connect with the community and ensure the federal government works for Kansans.

“I am very pleased to welcome Anne Hucker to my team,” said Davids. “I’m confident she’ll use her deep connections to the Kansas City area as well as her long history working in a variety of federal government positions to build an open line of communication to folks in all corners of Kansas’ Third District. We have a lot to get done — including lowering grocery and gas costs, building safer roads, and making health care more affordable — and I’m excited to do this work alongside Anne.”

“I am thrilled to be joining Representative Davids’ stellar team and am looking forward to connecting with more of our neighbors to ensure the federal government serves them effectively,” said Anne Hucker, District Director, Office of Representative Sharice Davids. “I started my career in the public sector, so this feels a bit like going back to my roots. Whether it be helping folks get their Social Security and veterans benefits or navigating different federal processes, folks should always feel free to contact our office for assistance. We’re here to help.”

Before joining Davids’ team, Hucker began her career working in the U.S. Congress for former Representative Ike Skelton of Missouri’s Fourth District, which lies southwest of Kansas City, and the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee. After graduating from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, Hucker worked for multiple law firms throughout the Kansas City area, specializing in litigation. Hucker also clerked for the Honorable Ortrie Smith at the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-bipartisan-legislation-avoid-government-shutdown,Davids Statement on Bipartisan Legislation to Avoid Government Shutdown,2023-11-17,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, after the President signed into law legislation to avoid a government shutdown, Representative Sharice Davids released the following statement calling for further bipartisan cooperation to keep the government open in the long term. If Congress does not act before the new deadlines in early 2024, certain federal agencies will run out of funding and the government will shut down. The bill signed into law late last night includes a one-year extension of the Farm Bill, which expired on October 1, 2023.

“This bipartisan legislation averts a costly government shutdown that would have drastic consequences on Kansas families, small business owners, and our entire economy. While no bill is perfect, it also extends the Farm Bill, which expired more than a month ago and is crucial for protecting Kansas producers and the millions of people around the world they feed. Now, it's essential that we work together with Republicans and Democrats to find a commonsense solution that keeps our government open for the long term and protects Kansans’ ability to support their families.”

Background:

The legislation signed into law last night, known as a continuing resolution (CR), sets staggered expiration dates for federal government funding. Roughly 20 percent of the federal government is financed through January 19, 2024, and the remaining 80 percent until February 2, 2024. If Congress does not fully fund the government before these deadlines, the federal government will shut down.

Davids continues to push for a bipartisan agreement to keep the government open past the new 2024 deadlines set in the continuing resolution signed today. A shutdown would have serious impacts on Kansas families and the overall U.S. economy. Americans would face disruptions to important benefits, service members would not be compensated, many small businesses would have to alter their operations, and federal workers would be furloughed and go unpaid. Specifically:

It’s estimated the five-week partial government shutdown in 2018-2019 reduced economic output by $11 billion in the following two quarters and the 2013 full government shutdown reduced GDP growth by $20 billion.

Kansans receiving Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits would experience service delays, including disruptions to verifying benefits and the issuance of new cards.

There are currently 19,977 federal workers in Kansas who may be furloughed. A bipartisan report found that the last three government shutdowns led to the equivalent of 56,940 years in lost productivity from federal workers.

Small businesses may encounter delays in receiving loans from the federal government. Moody’s Analytics estimated that the 2018-2019 shutdown delayed more than $2 billion in loans to small businesses.

The distribution of important food assistance programs, including SNAP, could be disrupted, leaving some Kansan — including women, children, and the elderly — without nutritious food.

Travelers could face longer lines at airport security checkpoints and flight delays during a shutdown, which would also delay passport processing times even further.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-celebrates-two-year-anniversary-bipartisan-infrastructure-law,Davids Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Image

November 15, 2023

More than 258 Kansas projects benefiting from the bipartisan infrastructure law

On the two-year anniversary of the bipartisan infrastructure law being signed into law, Representative Sharice Davids highlighted key ways the legislation is already improving Kansas roads, water quality, broadband access, and more. In total, approximately $3.1 billion has been announced and is headed to Kansas with more than 258 specific projects identified for support. Davids, a member of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, met with the President and senior White House officials multipletimes to help get this legislation across the finish line.

“I voted for the bipartisan infrastructure law to bring Kansas’ infrastructure into the 21st century and to create good-paying jobs across our state,” said Davids. “In the two years since it was enacted, this historic law has made getting to work and school faster and safer, improved access to broadband, made strides against climate change, and cleaned up our drinking water. I am excited to see how these investments benefit future generations of Kansans and will keep working for you in Congress.”

By reaching communities across Kansas – including rural communities and other historically overlooked populations – the law makes critical investments that will improve lives for Kansans and position the state for success. These investments include:

Roads and Bridges: In Kansas, there are 1,321 bridges and more than 1,995 miles of highway in poor condition. Kansas is expected to receive approximately $2.8 billion over five years for highways and bridges.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to expand US 69, which has been a priority in Johnson County for decades. The updated interchange will help support expected growth in southern Johnson County and create a clear path for emergency vehicles to reach AdventHealth South Overland Park Hospital.

Announced investment to date: Kansas has been allocated $1.5 billion in highway investments and $135 million in bridge investments.

Water: It’s estimated there are 160,000 lead water lines in Kansas – the third highest per capita nationwide. There are also 3,975 miles of wastewater pipe in the Third District and nearly $1 billion in wastewater treatment facility repairs are needed over the next 25 years to prevent overflows and failures.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to replace lead pipes across the Kansas Third, including in Olathe, where the city’s Pipe Replacement Education Program is working to identify and replace service lines with toxic materials.

Announced investment to date: Approximately $194 million is available to provide clean and safe water across Kansas. Of this investment, $61 million is dedicated to lead pipe and service line replacement, with another $44 million for safe drinking water investments that can also support lead pipe replacement.

Internet: High-speed internet is necessary for Kansans to work, go to school, access health care, and stay connected. Yet, nearly 23 percent of Kansans do not have an internet subscription. Additionally, experts estimate that as many as 412,000 households in Kansas are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which cuts internet bills by up to $30 per month.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to expand middle mile high-speed internet across the state, including in all five counties in Kansas’ Third Congressional District. Specifically, the project will support smaller internet service providers in rural and unserved areas.

Announced investment to date: Kansas has received $451.7 million to improve access to high-speed internet and $42.5 million to expand middle-mile infrastructure across the state. Also, about 125,000 households in Kansas are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program, an increase of 47,000 from one year ago.

Airports and Ports: According to National rankings, no Kansas airport ranks in the top 25 airports worldwide. Our ports and waterways are in need of repair and reimagination too.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to make improvements at the Johnson County Executive Airport, where structural and safety improvements to two taxiways were recently completed. Airport improvements across Kansas’ Third District, along with port infrastructure updates, will help boost domestic supply chains and lower costs for Kansans.

Announced investment to date: Kansas has received more than $58 million in 2022 for airports and $23 million in 2022 for ports.

Public Transit: Kansas is expected to receive $259 million over five years under the bipartisan infrastructure law to improve public transportation options across the state.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to make structural improvements at KCATA’s bus storage and electric vehicle charging facility and strengthen access to housing, health care, employment, and education for citizens in the Kansas City metro area.

Announced investment to date: Kansas has been allocated more than $101 million to improve public transportation options across the state.

Clean Energy and Resilience: In the last decade, Kansas has experienced 39 extreme weather events, costing the state up to $20 billion in damages. The bipartisan infrastructure law makes a historic investment to bolster our resilience against pressing challenges like impacts of climate change, extreme weather events, and other hazards like cyberattacks.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to support the Kansas City Levees Project and reduce flood risks in the Argentine neighborhood in Kansas City, Kansas.

Announced investment to date: Approximately $86 million has been allocated to Kansas for infrastructure resilience. Also, approximately $32 million has been allocated to Kansas for weatherization and $110 million to help prevent outages and make the power grid more resilient.

Electric Vehicle Charging: Through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program alone, Kansas should expect to receive roughly $40 million over five years to support the expansion of electric vehicle charging in the state.

Highlighted Project: The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along key roads and highways. These investments will create good-paying jobs, help protect Kansas' environment, and support American car manufacturers' rapidly growing EV production.

Announced investment to date: Kansas has been allocated more than $22 million to build out a network of EV chargers across the state.

The bipartisan infrastructure law, which is paid for through a combination of new revenues and savings, has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Visit here for more information on how the bipartisan infrastructure law is improving Kansas’ roads, bridges, water, and safety.

Issues:Transportation & Infrastructure",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-joins-small-business-owners-highlights-consequences-avoidable,"WATCH: Davids Joins Small Business Owners, Highlights Consequences of Avoidable Government Shutdown",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Representative Sharice Davids joined Small Business Majority and business owners from across the country to discuss the consequences of a government shutdown for our nation’s small businesses. Moody’s Analytics estimated that the 2018-2019 shutdown delayed more than $2 billion in loans to small businesses, devastating small business owners and the communities they support. While Davids continues to call for a bipartisan path forward, without Congressional action, the federal government is set to shut down at 12:01 a.m. ET on November 18, 2023.

“A shutdown is a devastating blow to our economy and represents real consequences for hardworking Kansans, including our small businesses which make up over 90 percent of employers in Kansas’ Third District,” said Davids. “Small businesses in Kansas are already struggling with higher prices as well as inventory and workforce issues. They hardly need more stress and uncertainty. I implore my colleagues to join me in working across the aisle to advance legislation that prevents a costly, harmful, and avoidable government shutdown, and to pass bipartisan legislation that reauthorize the FAA and Farm Bill.”

“A government shutdown would be a disaster for America’s hardworking small business owners and their employees,” said John Arensmeyer, founder & CEO, Small Business Majority. “With small firms unable to secure Small Business Administration and other government loans to small business government contractors seeing their revenue evaporate, entrepreneurs across the country, particularly in under resourced at-risk communities, will needlessly suffer. Moreover, buying power across all segments of the economy will be dealt a sharp blow putting our economic revival in jeopardy. Small businesses have weathered so much over the past few years; adding insult to injury would be devastating. Congress must pass a fully funded budget now.”

Last year, Davids released a report on the state of small business in Kansas’ Third Congressional District. Now, a government shutdown would have devastating consequences for these small businesses and needlessly undermine America’s economic progress. Specifically:

The U.S. Small Business Administration would stop processing new business loans for small businesses during a shutdown.

This would deny Kansas small businesses of more than $790,000 of financing per weekday due to 7(a) and 504 loan applications failing to move forward.

A shutdown would disrupt the average $13 billion per week in federal contracts that go to businesses throughout the country — nearly $3 billion of which goes to small businesses.

Small businesses are the first to cut costs during a shutdown, which proves consequential as these businesses employ close to half of all U.S. private sector workers.

A shutdown means that businesses owners, including farmers, can lose access to updated federal data on key measures like employment, oil prices, trade flows, and agricultural trends that they use to guide important daily business decisions.

Davids continues to push for a bipartisan agreement to keep the government open. Aside from the consequences for small businesses, a shutdown would have serious impacts on Kansas families and the overall U.S. economy. Americans would face disruptions to important benefits, service members would not be compensated, and federal workers would be furloughed and go unpaid. Specifically:

It’s estimated the five-week partial government shutdown in 2018-2019 reduced economic output by $11 billion in the following two quarters and the 2013 full government shutdown reduced GDP growth by $20 billion.

Kansans receiving Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits would experience service delays, including disruptions to verifying benefits and the issuance of new cards.

There are currently 19,977 federal workers in Kansas who may be furloughed. A bipartisan report found that the last three government shutdowns led to the equivalent of 56,940 years in lost productivity from federal workers.

The distribution of important food assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), could be disrupted, leaving some Kansan — including women, children, and the elderly — without nutritious food.

Travelers could face longer lines at airport security checkpoints and flight delays during a shutdown, which would also delay passport processing times even further.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-visits-kansas-veteran-owned-food-cart-discusses-bipartisan-legislation,"Davids Visits Kansas Veteran-Owned Food Cart, Discusses Bipartisan Legislation to Support Veteran Entrepreneurs",2023-11-10,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ROELAND PARK, KS - Today, on the eve of Veterans Day, Representative Sharice Davids visited Morty’s, a veteran-owned small business in Roeland Park, KS. Davids, whose mother served in the Army for 20 years, discussed her bipartisan legislation, the SERV Act, that would help veteran small business owners succeed. Davids also gained insight into the veteran owner and his business challenges as he prepared for daily operations. She sampled a Morty’s Italian beef sandwich for lunch.

“As the daughter of a veteran, I have always said that because of their sense of service and dedication, there are few people better situated to become entrepreneurs than our nation’s veterans,” said Davids. “While that’s certainly true for Brian Newton who I spoke with today, he and other veterans face unique obstacles to starting and operating a small business. That's why I introduced the SERV Act to help eliminate those barriers, so our veterans can better support their families and, as in Brian's case, even whip up a delicious Italian beef sandwich!""

“My father was a career Marine and I served for a decade myself, with seven of those years spent overseas,” said Brian Newton, local veteran and owner of Morty’s. “I struggled for many years integrating back into civilian life, and especially with starting a business since we often reenter our new communities alone without the knowledge of how these systems work or even where to begin. I am thankful for leaders such as Rep. Davids who understand the unique challenges faced by veterans and who continue to work on our behalf. Rep Davids is on my team, and I am very thankful for that.”

Brian Newton served in the military for 10 years, seven of which were overseas. After returning home, he opened Morty’s, a food cart and catering business specializing in Italian beef sandwiches and Vienna Beef Chicago-style hot dogs. Due to high demand and after years of searching for space, Newton recently purchased a brick-and-mortar location in Kansas City, KS where he will soon open a restaurant for walk-up and delivery service. Davids and Newton discussed the challenges Newton faced when starting a business and the successes he has since achieved.

Alongside Representative Mark Alford (R-MO-03), Davids introduced the SERV Act to study the barriers veterans face when starting a business and improve the accessibility of existing veteran-focused small business programs. The bill recently passed out of the U.S. House Small Business Committee unanimously and now heads for a vote on the House floor, where it passed in 2019 with broad bipartisan support. Specifically, it:

Commissions a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the ability of veteran and reservist small business owners to access credit.

This includes a new analysis on common sources of credit and how deployment and other military responsibilities affect veterans' and reservists' credit.

Requires the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to develop an action plan for outreach and promotion of the many programs available to veterans looking to transition into the business world.

Requires the task force to report annually to Congress on its appointments and outline its plan for outreach on the many programs available to veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, and their spouses.

“As the daughter of a veteran, Representative Sharice Davids knows the challenges veterans face when starting a small business and she has been a strong champion for veteran-owned small businesses on the House Committee,” said Mindy Brissey, Regional Administrator, Small Business Administration Region VII. “The US Small Business Administration is proud to work with Rep. Davids to increase veteran access to capital, government contracting opportunities, training and counseling, and other support services to start and grow their businesses.”

While military experience provides transferable entrepreneurial training and skills, the number of veterans starting their own business has decreased drastically over the last few decades. Today, only 4.5 percent of the more than 3.6 million veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 have launched a company. In contrast, the number of World War II and Korean War veterans who went on to operate a business was 50 and 40 percent, respectively. Reasons for this decline include challenges accessing credit, transitioning to civilian life, and overcoming stigmas around physical disabilities and post-traumatic stress disorder.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grants-hire-officers-improve-mental-health-services,"Davids Announces Federal Grants to Hire Officers, Improve Mental Health Services for Law Enforcement",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded two grants to support law enforcement in Kansas’ Third District and throughout the state. The awards, totaling nearly $700,000, will help hire four additional police officers and improve access to mental health and wellness services for law enforcement professionals in Kansas’ Third District.

""By hiring additional officers and improving mental health services, these new federal awards will help our local law enforcement do their jobs better and safer,"" said Davids. ""My mom is an army veteran who served in law enforcement for a time herself. I am grateful for our local law enforcement professionals and will continue working to ensure they have the resources and support needed to keep our communities safe.""

The grants announced today were received through two DOJ Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) awards that will positively impact public safety in Kansas' Third District. They include:

COPS Hiring Program (CHP)

City of Olathe - $500,000

To hire four entry-level law enforcement officers to create and preserve jobs and increase crime prevention efforts.

Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Implementation Projects (LEMHWA)

Executive Office of Kansas - $198,641

To improve the delivery of and access to mental health and wellness services for law enforcement through training and technical assistance, demonstration projects, and peer mentoring and wellness programs.

“The Olathe Police Department is honored to be a recipient of the 2023 US DOJ COPS Hiring Program grant,” said Mike Butaud, Chief of Police, Olathe Police Department. “This grant will help the Olathe Advanced Crisis-Intervention Team add four new officers which will allow the unit to expand our response to behavioral health crisis calls for service. This addition to the team will also better connect citizens with resources and help them navigate the justice system when needed so the participants can maintain success and thrive within the community.”

“We are extremely grateful for Representative Davids’ support of our application for the LEMHWA grant,” said Tony Mattivi, Director, Kansas Bureau of Investigation. “This investment will greatly improve the availability of critical wellness services for KBI employees and their families.”

Since taking office, Davids has made it a priority to work with both Republicans and Democrats to ensure Kansas is always a safe place to live, work, and raise a family. These latest federal investments build on the more than $27 million in federal public safety grant funds that Davids helped secure to hire more local police officers, prevent crime, and get criminals off streets.

Davids has also secured funding for the Olathe Police Department’s Mobile Command Unit and announced federal resources to hire additional law enforcement officers in Wyandotte County. She previously voted for historic, bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to keep Kansans safe and a bill giving officers access to disability benefits for job-related PTSD. Most recently, she went on a ride-along with an Overland Park law enforcement officer and participated in trainings at the Johnson County Regional Police Academy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-introduces-amendment-give-expecting-parents-power-over-childs-health,Davids Introduces Amendment to Give Expecting Parents Power Over Child’s Health Care Insurance,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC - Representative Sharice Davids recently introduced her Empowering Parents’ Healthcare Choices Act as an amendment to U.S. government budget legislation. Her bill,submitted to the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, is designed to cut insurer red tape, avoid surprise bills, and give parents decision-making power over their infant’s health care — not insurance companies.

“Welcoming a child into your family should be a joyful event, free from undue stress and financial burden at the hands of insurance companies,” said Davids. “This is a simple fix that gives parents power over their baby’s health care coverage, so they can make an informed choice about their family’s future. I’ll continue looking for avenues to get this legislation across the finish line, providing financial relief for countless families in Kansas and across the country.”

Currently, many expecting parents with separate health insurance plans are subject to an obscure and often undisclosed policy known as “the birthday rule.” The birthday rule determines the insurance policy that will cover a new baby simply based on whichever parent’s birthday comes first in the calendar year – regardless of what the parents want. Insurance companies often do not inform parents of this policy, which can result in surprise medical bills for growing families. That’s what happened to the Kjelshus family of Olathe, KS, when they welcomed their daughter Charlie to the world—leaving them with a $270,951 out-of-network hospital billeven though they had planned for Charlie’s birth based on the coverage they expected to use.

The Empowering Parents’ Healthcare Choices Act would give parents 60 days after the birth of their child to choose which insurance policy will cover their new baby. It would also give the Administration authority to instruct insurers on how and when to notify parents of their rights, helping more families avoid frustrating red tape, surprise bills, and insurance policy mazes.

“We thought we had everything prepared for our daughter’s arrival, but the ‘birthday rule’ ended up putting us in an unexpected and financially stressful back-and-forth with insurance companies for over a year,” said Mikkel and Kayla Kjelshus of Olathe, KS. “We are glad that Rep. Davids is bringing attention to this issue, which affects so many families and can put incredible strain on what should be a happy time. Just by giving the power and knowledge to families on their health care decision, this bill would make a big difference in every new parents’ life.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-house-leaderships-unserious-partisan-israel-aid-package,Davids Statement on House Leadership’s Unserious Partisan Israel Aid Package,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Representative Sharice Davids released the following statement after voting against a partisan plan that would fail to protect Israel and undermine America’s national security.

“Since coming to Congress, I have always supported security assistance for Israel, our close ally in the Middle East, and I remain committed to that support. The irresponsible and partisan legislation pushed by House leadership, however, puts political games ahead of both saving innocent lives and America’s national security. It also does nothing to deliver critically needed humanitarian aid in Gaza and the West Bank. We must work in a bipartisan manner to ensure security assistance for Israel against Hamas, as we have consistently done during times of conflict. I’ll continue working together with Republicans and Democrats to achieve that goal and to deliver the necessary and adequate humanitarian aid to civilians in the Middle East.”

Background:

In her commitment to reaffirm Israel’s right to self-defense and protect innocent lives, Davids previously condemned the violence and urged the U.S. Department of State to continue working with the governments of Israel and Egypt to enable a steady supply of humanitarian assistance, which they later did. She also joined her colleagues in calling for increased support for Israel’s defense systems and continues pushing for a prompt humanitarian response in the West Bank and Gaza, both of which are included in the President’s emergency supplemental request alongside aid to Ukraine.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-visits-olathe-head-start-highlights-federal-investments-early-education,"Davids Visits Olathe Head Start, Highlights Federal Investments for Early Education",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OLATHE, KS - Yesterday, Representative Sharice Davids visited Olathe Public Schools Head Start to learn how the program will benefit from a new federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The $1,730,023 federal investment will ensure the students Davids met today are emotionally and intellectually prepared for schooling in the coming years. Research shows a high return on investment for early childhood programs, yielding a $4 – $9 economic return for every $1 invested.

“The benefits of Head Start appear immediately and last a lifetime. These early education programs impart the social and emotional skills needed for students to excel in their future educational, career, and personal pursuits,” said Davids. “I enjoyed my time with students and faculty at Olathe Public Schools Head Start today and look forward to seeing how these new federal investments will make a difference in the children’s success.”

Students in early childhood education programs are less likely to repeat grades, are 25 percent more likely to graduate high school, and are four times more likely to complete a bachelor’s degree in comparison to non-Head Start students. But long-term benefits of Head Start programs are not only limited to educational success. Children in Head Start are healthier and have better social and emotional skills. In adulthood, statistics show that former Head Start students experience greater economic stability and earn higher wages.

“On behalf of Olathe Public Schools, we are very pleased to continue to offer comprehensive services to our Head Start children and families,” said Kimberly Sill, Director, Olathe Public Schools Head Start. “The Olathe School District has offered Head Start services to the community since the inception of Head Start in 1965. This funding will support high-quality learning, school readiness skills, as well as nutritious meals, health and developmental screenings, and oral and mental health support. Head Start helps provide a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school. We know that high quality early childhood programming is one of the most effective strategies to ensure future success for the next generation.”

During her visit yesterday, Davids toured the Heartland Early Childhood Center, one of two Head Start programs operated by Olathe Public Schools. She was joined by Dr. Kim Hawkins, Director of Early Childhood at Olathe Public Schools, and Kimberely Still. Davids also sat down with current Head Start students to read a book.

The federal grant highlighted during Davids’ visit will be used to continue providing early education opportunities and family support services to children and families in Southern Johnson County. It will also help provide nutritious meals, health and developmental screenings, and oral and mental health support for students.

As a first-generation college student who worked her way from Leavenworth High School to Cornell Law School, Davids understands the value of a quality education for the success of a student and our overall economy. In the 117th Congress, she announcedfunding for three additional Head Start programs: Kansas City Kansas Public School's Successful Beginnings, The Family Conservancy, and the University of Kansas Medical Center's Project Eagle.

Davids was the only member of the Kansas delegation to support the American Rescue Plan (ARP), which helped keep 3,810 Kansas childcare programs open during the pandemic, impacting up to 119,000 children. Experts have stated access to reliable and affordable childcare is necessary for the financial stability of working families and the economic growth and global competitiveness of our country. The Plan also allocated about $29 million to Kansas' Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) program to support early intervention and special education services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-works-sharices-shift-local-grocery-store-highlights-work-lower-grocery,"Davids Works “Sharice’s Shift” at Local Grocery Store, Highlights Work to Lower Grocery Costs and Strengthen Supply Chains",2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ROELAND PARK, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids worked a ""Sharice's Shift"" at the Roeland Park Price Chopper to highlight her efforts to lower costs for Kansas families and strengthen U.S. supply chains. While our economy is experiencing record job creation, the cost of groceries and gas remains high. To help lower those costs, Davids, who was named a ""Champion of the Shippers"" by the Shippers Coalition, has worked to shore up our domestic supply chains, which eases inflationary pressures for Kansans.

“Hardworking Kansans, including the shoppers I spoke with today, continue to face higher prices at the grocery store and gas pump. While we’ve seen recent economic progress in record job creation and small business applications, there’s still so much more work needed to get those prices back down,” said Davids. “Finding bipartisan solutions to lower prices and build an economy that works for everyone — especially for folks in the middle- and working-classes — is my top priority.”

“Thank you, Representative Davids, for taking the time to visit our store and hear firsthand about how the various laws impact our business,” said Mike Beal, Chief Operating Officer, Ball's Food Stores. “Grocers like us play a vital role in the heart of every community. We are more than just a store, but we are a lifeline for many, ensuring our customers have access to fresh, affordable, and nutritious food and serve as a hub for supporting local products and farmers. We appreciate your recognition of the important role grocers play in their communities through the jobs provided and various services offered.”

During the ""Sharice's Shift,"" Davids helped store employees unload deliveries from shipping trucks, stock grocery shelves, and bag groceries. Davids spoke with store management on the economic impact of independent grocers on Kansas communities and her work to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill. She also shared what she is doing in Congress to lower costs for hardworking Kansans and strengthen domestic supply chains, including by voting for the CHIPS and Science Act, which is bringing jobs to Kansas, lowering costs for consumers, and supporting workforce development.

Davids’ additional work to lower grocery costs and strengthen supply chains include:

Voting to pass the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act to shore up the food and agriculture supply chain, assure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, and lower food and gasoline costs.

Holding multipleroundtables with Kansas business, manufacturing, and technology leaders on how recent legislation to improve supply chains will help boost their businesses' financial security.

Cosponsoring the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a new law aimed at addressing supply chain snags and reducing dependence on goods produced outside of the United States.

Meeting with President Biden at the White House to urge him to pass a supply chain and economic package that invests in American manufacturing.

As a member of the U.S. House Agriculture Committee, Davids is also working to craft a bipartisan Farm Bill that supports Kansas farmers and lowers costs, including by securing agricultural supply chains to keep costs low and support our state’s largest economic sector. Davids previously hosted U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffitt to highlight lowering costs for processing, packaging, and consumer purchasing of locally sourced meats. She also joined other Kansas lawmakers in a bipartisan push for investigations into anti-competitive behavior in the meatpacking industry.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grant-lower-home-energy-costs-improve-energy,"Davids Announces Federal Grant to Lower Home Energy Costs, Improve Energy Efficiency of Public Buildings",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS) announced the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded two organizations in Kansas with a total of $800,000 to lower home energy costs for Kansas families and make public buildings across our state more energy efficient.

The awardees of the “Buildings UP” grants include:

Climate + Energy Project — $400,000

To make homes more energy efficient, lowering families’ energy bills, reducing energy consumption, and improving health.

Davids advocated to the DOE for this project to be fairly considered for the award.

Metropolitan Energy Center ­— $400,000

To help make libraries across Kansas more energy efficient, decreasing costs of publicly funded utility bills and air pollution.

“The Buildings UP awards I’m announcing today will decrease energy costs, reduce carbon emissions, and improve indoor air quality for folks at home and in public buildings throughout the Kansas City area,” said Davids. “Congress has passed major climate-smart legislation in recent years, and these grants will ensure hardworking Kansans actually see the benefits at home.”

Commercial and residential buildings in the U.S. account for 35 percent of the country’s carbon emissions and those buildings consume 75 percent of the nation’s electricity. Also, despite economic growth in recent years, in 2022, the average American paid 11 percent more per kilowatt-hour for electricity than in 2021. The grants announced today will help lower those energy bills for Kansas families and businesses, while also helping ensure our public buildings can meet national energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emission reduction goals.

""The Buildings UP program funding awarded to Climate + Energy Project's Energy Navigators Program will have a direct and positive impact on Kansans experiencing high energy burden and environmental injustice,” said Dorothy Barnett, Executive Director, Climate + Energy Project. “Energy Navigators will leverage community-driven pathways to improve outcomes in low-income households by connecting folks with the solutions and financial resources to lower their energy bills and make their homes and communities healthier and safer. We are so grateful to Congresswoman Davids' support of this initiative, and we look forward to the good that Energy Navigators will do in Kansas communities with the Buildings UP funding.""

“This project will unlock people’s lived expertise to influence building improvements affecting health and quality of life,” said Mary English, Building Performance Program Manager, Metropolitan Energy Center. “We are excited to see public libraries delivering these experiential learning exhibits across the region, and someday nationwide.”

Davids has been focused on lowering energy bills for Kansans and was the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the Inflation Reduction Act. This legislation could save families an average of $500 per year on energy bills and is providing discounts to help families upgrade to more efficient appliances and vehicles. Davids also previously announced that, thanks to the law, Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country.

Background:

In total, DOE announced 45 Phase 1 winners in the Buildings UP program, which awarded more than $22 million in cash prizes and technical assistance to teams developing scalable and replicable initiatives for widespread energy efficiency and efficient electrification building upgrades. These innovative models aim to accelerate greenhouse gas reduction, equity, economic development, and health goals.

Thirty-nine teams in the Equity-Centered Innovation Pathway, including the awardees in Kansas, were selected to move onto Phase 2 of the prize for their concepts to deliver scalable and replicable upgrades to buildings in disadvantaged communities, low- and moderate-income households, and underserved commercial, nonprofit, and public buildings.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-inspire-youth-entrepreneurship,Davids Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Inspire Youth Entrepreneurship,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS), along with Representatives French Hill (R-AR) and Dean Phillips (D-MN), reintroduced the bipartisan 21st Century Entrepreneurship Act to increase workforce and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially for students from underserved communities. Davids has served on the U.S. House Small Business Committee since being sworn into Congress.

“In Kansas, we have the talent and the great education system to power the next generation of entrepreneurs—and we know from experience that mentorship improves outcomes for students,” said Davids. “The 21st Century Entrepreneurship Act will provide effective after-school programs with new curriculum and experienced mentors, creating a pipeline of success for our students.”

Entrepreneurship is an engine of economic growth, job creation, and innovation, but American entrepreneurship has steadily declined over the past several decades. New businesses accounted for 38 percent of all businesses in the US in 1982 compared to just 29 percent in 2018. Davids’ bill aims to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs by requiring the Small Business Administration (SBA) to develop an entrepreneurship curriculum for students in the 21st century and encouraging mentorship from proven business leaders across the country.

While most existing federal entrepreneurial development and mentorship programs focus on those with already-established careers, this bill would help create a pipeline to entrepreneurship by targeting entrepreneurial education toward students from underprivileged and underrepresented backgrounds.

“The 21st Century Entrepreneurship Act will connect the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) with the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) to provide mentorship to underserved students and develop their entrepreneurship and professional skills,” said Representative French Hill. “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Entrepreneurship Caucus and lifelong entrepreneur, I am proud to co-lead this legislation again this Congress with my colleague, Rep. Phillips, and look forward to the impact this important legislation will have on our youth across our nation for years to come.”

“Our young people are our future, and cultivating the next generation of business leaders requires encouraging entrepreneurship at an early age,” said Representative Dean Phillips. “New businesses account for a disproportionate share of innovation, economic growth, and job creation. We must take action today to ensure a thriving, equitable business landscape tomorrow.”

While our economy is experiencing record job creation, Davids has been squarely focused on lowering costs and boosting workforce opportunities for Kansans. She was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law, which is creating good-paying construction jobs at home. Davids also voted for major bipartisan manufacturing legislation last year, which has already generated more than 100,000 jobs nationwide. Finally, Davids previously announced Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country over the past year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-election-speaker-house,Davids Statement on Election of Speaker of the House,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, after three weeks of Speaker elections halted all other official business in the House of Representatives, Representative Sharice Davids released the below statement following the election of a new Speaker of the House.

“The only way to deliver real results for Kansans is by Republicans and Democrats working together. However, the majority has elected a Speaker who has consistently demonstrated a lack of interest in working across the aisle, relentlessly pushing extreme policies such as support for a national abortion ban without exceptions and opposition to same-sex marriage. Kansans are frustrated with Washington and are demanding solutions instead of more partisanship, especially now as we confront multiple crises throughout the world that require swift action. While the new House leadership may not share this same goal, I remain committed to finding bipartisan solutions to address the everyday challenges faced by Kansans, including lowering the costs of groceries and gas.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-davids-cleaver-announce-kansas-city-selected-regional-tech-hub-opening,"Reps. Davids, Cleaver Announce Kansas City Selected as Regional Tech Hub, Opening Door to Massive Federal Grant",2023-10-23,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS) and Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has designated the greater Kansas City region as a Regional Technology and Innovation Hub (Tech Hub), one of 31 inaugural Tech Hubs in regions across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors. The Tech Hubs program, created under the bipartisan Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act, seeks to ensure that industries of the future—and their quality jobs—are created, grow, and remain in the United States. Designated Tech Hubs are now eligible to apply for the next phase of the Tech Hubs Program that will invest between $40-$75 million.

""The KC BioHub's designation as a Regional Tech Hub holds immense potential for the Kansas City region and Kansas as a whole. It will help companies, organizations, and academic institutions forge better partnerships to advance cutting-edge research. Critically, this prestigious designation will also create good-paying jobs and ensure the technology of the future is developed in Kansas, not overseas. The local economic growth and new discoveries, particularly in medication development, that we'll see over the coming decade cannot be overstated, and I'm glad to have worked in a bipartisan manner to bring these investments home,"" said Representative Sharice Davids.

“With world-class institutions and forward-thinking organizations like BioNexus KC, Kansas City has long been a national leader in healthcare innovation, biomedical research, and biomanufacturing—and today’s announcement is a recognition that the work we’re doing in the region has been noticed at the highest levels of the federal government,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Thanks to this designation, BioNexus KC and organizations throughout the region will have an opportunity to receive up to $75 million in federal funding, attract additional philanthropic and private investment, and expand the development of cutting-edge medicines and life-saving vaccines. And we can do all of that while creating quality jobs and boosting the regional economy.”

“Tech Hubs designation validates our intentional focus on collaboration and innovation in the KC region and builds upon our strong foundation of excellence in life sciences over the past two decades,” said Dennis Ridenour, President and CEO of BioNexus KC. “With our robust ecosystem, assets, and inclusive approach, the KC region is poised for long-term growth in technology innovation. Along with strengthening our economy, Tech Hubs designation will accelerate our mission to be a global leader in biomanufacturing. Thank you to our 60+ partner organizations that contributed to our regional application, including our civic, community, and congressional leaders who gave their full support. Not only are we home to successful sports teams with an innate ability to host world-class events, but now we’re nationally recognized for our work in life sciences and biomanufacturing.”

“Innovation, cutting-edge research, and creativity can be found in every community across America. Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, the Tech Hubs program is seizing that potential and investing in regional consortia that will boost U.S. manufacturing, create more good-paying jobs and bolster U.S. global competitiveness,” said Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves. “The phase 1 designees and grant recipients reflect the diverse technological industries growing here at home and are symbols of American innovation and opportunity. The Tech Hubs program will provide them tools and resources to drive economic growth across the nation, which Americans will feel for generations to come.”

The Kansas City Inclusive Biologics and Biomanufacturing Tech Hub (KC BioHub), a consortium led by BioNexus KC, will increase domestic production of life-saving vaccines and other preventative technologies by strengthening innovation in animal and human vaccine development. With the largest concentration of animal health and nutrition companies in the world, this Tech Hub will leverage the region’s biotechnology assets and existing vaccine manufacturing facilities, research institutions, and startup ecosystem to enable the U.S. to capture a greater market share of human vaccine development.

KC BioHub was one of 31 Tech Hubs selected from more than 370 applications from regional consortia that include industry, academia, state and local governments, economic development organizations, and labor and workforce partners. The Tech Hubs span regions across 32 states and Puerto Rico and represent a cross section of urban and rural regions.

Last year, Reps. Davids and Cleaver supported the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, which aims to bring supply chains back to the United States, encourage innovation, strengthen American manufacturing, and secure the nation’s economic and national security in the decades to come. In August, Reps. Davids and Cleaver called on Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo to support the selection of Kansas City as a Tech Hub.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-grant-keep-kansans-safe-decreasing-gas-pipeline-damages,Davids Announces Grant to Keep Kansans Safe by Decreasing Gas Pipeline Damages,2023-10-20,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) awarded the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) $48,840 to help prevent damage to pipelines across Kansas. Pipeline damage poses significant health risks due to natural gas leakage and can lead to property damage, construction delays, and possible explosions. In 2021, Johnson County saw 240 pipeline damage incidents, the highest number in the state. This award will be used to fund a full-time position at the KCC dedicated to investigating natural gas pipeline damages.

“Getting to the root cause of pipeline damages across our state will ensure hardworking Kansans remain safe and healthy in their communities,” said Davids. “In conjunction with the bipartisan infrastructure law’s help to clean up toxic oil wells, this renewed award will support the Kansas Corporation Commission in their efforts to prevent future pipeline damages from disrupting our daily lives at home.”

“This grant opportunity has allowed the KCC to have a presence in the field at the site of the damage before repairs are complete,” said Leo Haynos, KCC Chief Engineer. “The ability to interview the parties involved, to look at the locate marks, and to understand the type of excavating equipment involved provides the inspector with the information needed to make a credible determination of the cause.”

The award announced today is provided through the DOT’s One Call Grant Program, which helps state agencies like KCC reduce pipeline damage through updated oversight procedures, compliance activities, training, and public education. Through modernized enforcement strategies and public education, KCC has used One Call awards to reduce pipeline damage to just 0.2 percent of excavations. Excavations remain the most common cause of pipeline damage, often occurring during road and highway maintenance.

Davids has backed multiple efforts to support KCC’s mission of keeping Kansans safe through smart oil and gas oversight. She was joined by U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland in Olathe to highlight the bipartisan infrastructure law’s work to clean up more than 5,400 hazardous, abandoned oil and gas wells that are polluting public spaces across Kansas. She also announced that KCC was awarded $25 million to plug 67 abandoned oil wells in Johnson County and 176 in Miami County.

Background:

Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration’s (PHMSA) One Call grants can be used to support initiatives that further promote efforts specifically for pipeline damage prevention, including one-call legislation, related compliance activities, training, and public education. This grant program is for states that have a certification or agreement with PHMSA to conduct pipeline safety inspections. State agencies that participate in the pipeline safety program can receive a maximum award amount of $60,000.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-speaks-house-speaker-vacancy-calls-bipartisanship,"WATCH: Davids Speaks on House Speaker Vacancy, Calls for Bipartisanship",2023-10-20,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids released a video message on the dangers of the prolonged House Speaker vacancy, which has halted all official business in the U.S. House of Representatives. With Kansans facing rising costs of groceries and America's allies abroad confronting unprecedented crises, Davids urged her colleagues to unite, set aside extremist viewpoints, and work together to chart a bipartisan path forward, as expected by Kansans.

Image

Representative Sharice Davids speaks on the consequences of not electing a House speaker and calls for bipartisanship.

Read a transcript of Davids’ remarks below:

“Hi everyone – Rep. Davids here. It’s been 17 days since the United States House of Representatives has had a Speaker.

“Due to some extreme viewpoints pushed by certain members of Congress, in the past 17 days, we haven’t been able to pass a single bill on the House floor. I don’t need to tell you how consequential that is, but especially right now as hardworking Kansans are dealing with rising prices of everyday essentials like groceries here at home AND our allies are facing unprecedented crises abroad.

“Kansans are frustrated with Washington and are demanding solutions instead of more partisanship.

“I’ve said from the beginning that the only way to deliver real results is by Republicans and Democrats working together. I remain committed to a bipartisan path forward that ensures Congress can function without disruption — as you expect it should — so we can address the everyday challenges folks are facing at home.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grant-new-stem-career-training-program,Davids Announces Federal Grant for New STEM Career Training Program,2023-10-18,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Commerce’s (DOC) Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas (Goodwill MoKan) with $499,196 to create a new STEM-based job training program to help local job seekers find permanent high-wage careers in the technology sector. Participants who start careers through the program are expected to see an annual income increase of at least 200 percent.

“No matter where they live or their educational background, all Kansans deserve a good-paying job to support their families and contribute to our local economy,” said Davids. “This federal investment is a huge win for our region, where employers are eager to hire for technology jobs.It will provide both job seekers with the opportunity to learn technical skills, leading to higher-paying careers, and a positive return on investment for our community.""

The investments announced today will help Goodwill create the “Bridge to Technology and Careers in Greater Kansas City” program, which will increase diversity and equity in technology-based fields in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The course will expose participants to emerging technology, provide employer-developed skills training, and connect job seekers with local employers.

Individuals participating in the program will receive computer devices, internet services, transportation, clothing, child care, and more to assist in learning. By October 2025, it’s expected the program will help at least 80 Kansas City residents start junior-level tech careers, 55 of which through federally registered apprenticeships.

“Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas is excited and humbled to have received EDA’s STEM Talent Challenge Award for FY2023,” said Mike Sinnett, President and CEO, Goodwill Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas. “This investment by the federal government will empower more people to overcome the digital divide, pursue in-demand credentials, and earn apprenticeships and employment in technology-based careers in the Kansas City metro. We are grateful for the support of Congresswoman Davids as Goodwill MoKan strives to empower people through work.”

""The EDA's investment in Kansas City is a huge win,” said Julian Nicks, CEO, LaunchCode. “It is a signal of a continued commitment to developing a high-quality, diverse tech-enabled workforce so current and future Kansas City companies can continue to thrive and grow. We are honored and proud to stand alongside Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas in this important work. Our joint efforts will continue to invest in the untapped potential of local Kansas City residents by creating free, accessible education and pathways to high paying, in-demand careers in technology.""

While our economy is experiencing record job creation, Davids has been squarely focused on boosting workforce opportunities for Kansans. She was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law, which is creating good-paying construction jobs at home. Davids also voted for major bipartisan manufacturing legislation last year, which has already generated more than 100,000 jobs nationwide. Finally, Davids previously announced Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country over the past year.

Background:

This grant was awarded by the EDA’s STEM Talent Challenge, a national competition that supports programs to train science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) talent and fuel regional innovation economies across the nation. The 11 awardees, selected from a pool of 90 applicants, will increase America’s STEM-capable workforce in the emerging and transformative sectors such as aerospace, biomanufacturing, cybersecurity, data science, geospatial, artificial intelligence, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.

The goals of Goodwill’s new program are to serve demographic groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in technology, like women, BIPOC, low-income people, and people without 4-year degrees; increase access to training for high-wage technology careers; and ultimately diversify Kansas City area employers through the placement of apprentices and workers in their companies.

Upon completion of Goodwill’s 4-week program, job seekers can apply for a tech career program through LaunchCode, where they’ll earn no-cost technical training certificates, be placed in high-wage STEM-job opportunities and apprenticeships, and received career preparation services, including resume review and mock interviews. Program graduates are then introduced to well-paid tech opportunities through the Accelerator’s apprenticeship program. The Accelerator is offered at no cost to participants, removing a financial barrier.

Throughout all steps, individuals will be supported through dedicated case management by Goodwill staff, who will check in with job seekers regularly, encourage progress on career development plans, and either directly fund or make referrals to essential, training-related services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-funding-kansas-law-enforcement-stop-criminals-and-prevent,Davids Announces Funding for Kansas Law Enforcement to Stop Criminals and Prevent Crime,2023-10-12,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Justice awarded nearly $3 million to the state of Kansas to improve the quality, expeditiousness, and accessibility of criminal history records. The federal grant, awarded through the National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP), will help the state establish an integrated system of accurate records for law enforcement to protect public safety.

“Throughout my time in Congress, it’s been my mission to boost support for Kansas law enforcement so folks can feel safe in our community,” said Davids. “Accurate criminal history information is essential for Kansas law enforcement professionals to do their jobs and these resources will also help ensure more efficiency in our justice system. I’m proud to have helped bring these investments home to Kansas.”

“The nearly $3 million Kansas is receiving from the National Criminal History Improvement Program will empower us to modernize our court systems, ensuring greater efficiency, accuracy, and convenience in data transmission,” said Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. “Thanks to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Office of Justice Programs, we will remain committed to upholding the rule of law and fostering a safer, more just Kansas.”

The National Criminal History Improvement program grant will help identify and stop criminals through accurate state and national records. Specifically, to protect public safety and national security, law enforcement keeps record of:

Persons ineligible to hold positions involving children, the elderly, or the disabled;

Persons subject to protection orders or wanted, arrested, or convicted of stalking and/or domestic violence;

Persons ineligible to be employed or hold licenses for specified positions;

Persons potentially presenting threats to public safety;

Persons ineligible to purchase a firearm;

Persons on the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR).

Since being sworn in, Davids has worked to provide Kansas law enforcement officers with the tools needed to keep communities safe. She secured funding for the Olathe Police Department’s Mobile Command Unit and announced federal resources to hire additional law enforcement officers in Wyandotte County. She previously voted for historic, bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to keep Kansans safe and a bill giving officers access to disability benefits for job-related PTSD. Most recently, she went on a ride-along with an Overland Park law enforcement officer and participated in trainings at the Johnson County Regional Police Academy. Last month, she helped secure a federal grant for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to eliminate the state’s processing backlog of forensic DNA samples.

Background:

Accurate, timely, and complete criminal history records are critical for law enforcement in investigations and decision making. They enable criminal justice agencies to make decisions on pretrial release, career criminal charging, determinate sentencing, and correctional assignments across the country.

All states have established a criminal record repository to maintain records and respond to law enforcement inquiries, including data provided by all components of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, prosecution, courts, and corrections.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) administers national systems that permit interstate access to criminal records maintained in all 50 states, including the:

National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Indices

National Crime Information Center (NCIC)

Interstate Identification Index (III)

National Protection Order File

National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR)

Next Generation Identification (NGI) (formerly IAFIS).

The NCHIP program began in 1995, and grants awards annually on a competitive basis to states, territories, and recognized tribes. All states and eligible territories have received funds through the program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-terrorist-attacks-israel,Davids' Statement on Terrorist Attacks in Israel,2023-10-10,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"""I am heartbroken at the horrific attacks perpetuated by Hamas terrorists in Israel. I unequivocally condemn this violence. I have always supported security assistance for Israel, our close ally in the Middle East. I remain committed to that support as Israel confronts this ongoing threat and will stand by efforts to protect Israelis and reaffirm Israel's right to self-defense. If you are a Kansas Third District constituent in the region and need help with a federal agency like the State Department, please call my office at (913) 621-0832 - we'll get back to you.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-introduces-bipartisan-bill-designate-quindaro-townsite-national,Davids Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Designate Quindaro Townsite as National Historic Landmark,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03), joined by Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) and Jake LaTurner (KS-02), introduced the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act—bipartisan legislation to designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas as a National Historic Landmark.

The Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act gives the Secretary of the Interior additional flexibility to provide technical and financial assistance to local entities to preserve the site and provide educational content about the Landmark to the public. This legislation builds on Rep. Davids’ previous efforts to highlight the importance of the Quindaro Townsite, including bipartisan legislation that she passed into law in 2019 designating the Quindaro Townsite National Commemorative Site.

""I'm proud to join my colleagues, Representatives Cleaver and LaTurner, as well as community leaders across Kansas, to help the Quindaro Townsite receive the recognition and care it deserves,” said Davids. “Quindaro is a significant part of Kansas' history in the fight for freedom and equality, but for too long, our community has lacked the proper investments needed to preserve this important site. A National Historic Landmark designation will build on the bipartisan effort I led in 2019 to establish Quindaro as a National Commemorative Site and help protect its history, keeping its stories alive for generations to come.”

“Freedom is the foundational principle of American democracy, and the Quindaro Townsite is an important piece of regional history that tells the stories of those seeking to uphold our national commitment to liberty and freedom for all,” said Cleaver. “For years now, I’ve proudly worked across the aisle to ensure this site receives the recognition and appreciation it rightfully deserves. I’m proud to join Reps. LaTurner and Davids to introduce the Quindaro Townsite National Historic Landmark Act as we continue our efforts to preserve the cultural keystone of Quindaro in Eastern Kansas.”

""Quindaro is a vital part of our nation's history and served as a beacon of hope and freedom for Americans fighting to end slavery in the mid-19th century,"" said LaTurner. ""I'm proud to introduce this legislation with my colleagues and stand with the dozens of volunteers who have been fighting for decades to ensure the Quindaro Townsite receives the recognition and appreciation it deserves from our federal government.""

“As the Mayor of Kansas City Kansas it is of great importance to champion the significance the Quindaro Ruins plays highlighting the plight of African Americans through a network officially called the *Underground Railroad*. This dynamic gateway from slavery to freedom was facilitated in Wyandotte County Kansas with the assistance of Abolitionists, Wyandotte Indians, and freed African American slaves. This diverse group highlights the common denominator of a diversity of Americans helping other Americans realize the self-evident truths; that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. In the awesome community of Wyandotte County Kansas City Kansas we are extremely excited and grateful for the impending consideration taken by our National Congressional Leaders to take the steps necessary to elevate the Quindaro Ruins with an enhanced designation that can personify what it means for all Americans to truly be part of a United States of America continuously evolving into that perfect union for all those that champion what it means to be an American,"" said Kansas City, Kansas Mayor Tyrone Garner. ""As Mayor, I respectfully urge passage of the legislation before you, and thank you in advance for your consideration in this matter of great historic importance, not just to the Great State of Kansas but to our Great Nation.""

""Quindaro townsite is deeply emblematic of our proud, complicated heritage and a crucial chapter of our shared history as Kansans and Americans. This bill will help ensure Quindaro’s story endures for generations to come,"" said Lucinda Adams, Executive Director of Freedom's Frontier.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-implores-colleagues-commit-bipartisanship-over-dysfunction,WATCH: Davids Implores Colleagues to Commit to Bipartisanship Over Dysfunction,2023-09-28,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids released a video message reminding her colleagues of the real consequences of a government shutdown and calling for a bipartisan funding agreement that protects Kansans' jobs, health, and safety. Last week, Davids urged U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to recommit to the fiscally responsible, bipartisan funding agreement that Congress and the administration negotiated this past May. Without Congressional action, the federal government is set to shut down at 12:01 am ET on October 1, 2023.

“A shutdown is a devastating blow to our economy and represents real consequences for hardworking Kansans, including delays to paying our active service members and interruptions to Social Security benefits,” said Davids. “Folks back home are already struggling with higher prices on groceries and gas. They hardly need more stress and uncertainty. I implore my colleagues to join me in working across the aisle to advance legislation that prevents a costly, harmful, and avoidable government shutdown, and to pass bipartisan legislation that reauthorize the FAA and Farm Bill.”

WATCH: Rep. Davids speaks on the devastating impact of a shutdown and urges her colleagues to support a bipartisan path forward.

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Davids continues to push for a bipartisan agreement to keep the government open. A shutdown would have serious impacts on Kansas families and the overall U.S. economy. Americans would face disruptions to important benefits, service members would not be compensated, many small businesses would have to alter their operations, and federal workers would be furloughed and go unpaid. Specifically:

It’s estimated the five-week partial government shutdown in 2018-2019 reduced economic output by $11 billion in the following two quarters and the 2013 full government shutdown reduced GDP growth by $20 billion.

Kansans receiving Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits would experience service delays, including disruptions to verifying benefits and the issuance of new cards.

There are currently 19,977 federal workers in Kansas who may be furloughed. A bipartisan report found that the last three government shutdowns led to the equivalent of 56,940 years in lost productivity from federal workers.

The distribution of important food assistance programs, including SNAP, could be disrupted, leaving some Kansan — including women, children, and the elderly — without nutritious food.

Small businesses may encounter delays in receiving loans from the federal government. Moody’s Analytics estimated that the 2018-2019 shutdown delayed more than $2 billion in loans to small businesses.

Travelers could face longer lines at airport security checkpoints and flight delays during a shutdown, which would also delay passport processing times even further.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grants-improve-maternal-health-kansas,Davids Announces Federal Grants to Improve Maternal Health in Kansas,2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded Kansas with more than $2.4 million to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce disparities for patients at the highest risk. Davids has previously led legislation to address America's worsening maternal mortality crisis through increased health research and data collection. The awards benefit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC).

The United States is the only industrialized country with an increasing maternal mortality rate, and the crisis is most severe for people of color. Black mothers are dying at 3 to 4 times the rate of their white counterparts, and Native Americans are more than twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. According to NurtureKC, this trend holds true for Kansas. Wyandotte County in particular has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the state at 83.5 deaths per 10,000 live births.

""The U.S. is falling desperately short on maternal health, with mothers from disadvantaged backgrounds being impacted the most,"" said Davids. ""The grants I’m announcing today represent steps to address that crisis, helping to ensure healthier pregnancies and postpartum outcomes for all Kansas mothers. I’m glad I could bring these investments home, where they’ll be smartly used by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and University of Kansas Medical Center.”

The investments announced today support maternal health care through local health centers and other HRSA-supported programs carried out by states, community-based organizations, and training programs, such as:

State Maternal Health Innovation Program: $1,170,233 for KDHE

Establishes a maternal health task force to improve the collection and use of state-level data on maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity.

Screening and Treatment for Maternal Depression and Related Behavioral Disorders: $750,000 for KDHE

Provides training for OB/GYNs, Certified Nurse Midwives, and other maternal care providers to support the mental health needs of their patients.

Maternity Care Nursing Workforce Expansion (MatCare) Training Program: $309,258 for KUMC

Trains nurse midwives through trainee scholarships, stipends, curriculum enhancement, and community-based training.

Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) State Capacity: $200,000 for KDHE

Supports safe maternal care to reduce severe maternal illness and deaths in hospitals and birthing centers.

“Through this funding we will be able to take bold steps to save lives and work with health centers around our state to assist them in tailoring their response to the needs of Kansas women,” said Secretary Janet Stanek, Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “These grants help ensure healthier pregnancy and postpartum outcomes in our state. Thank you to Rep. Davids for her continued work in ensuring that Kansans can have safe and healthy pregnancy.”

“Federal grants like this one, which provides robust scholarships for full-time nurse-midwifery students seeking their Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, are an essential part of addressing our critical nursing workforce shortage,” said Sally L Maliski, PhD, RN, FAAN, Dean, University of Kansas School of Nursing. “We appreciate Congresswoman Davids’ support and promotion of our nurse educators as we seek innovative ways to improve nursing education access.”

Davids believes everyone should have access to quality, affordable health care and has worked to improve health outcomes and lower health care costs for Kansas families. She voted to allow Medicare to negotiate for lower drug prices and to cap the cost of insulin at $35 a month for seniors. She also worked across the aisle to pass a bipartisan law that eliminates surprise medical billing and supported legislation to expand mental health services, especially in schools and rural areas.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-urges-passage-bipartisan-farm-bill-during-regional-agricultural-forum,Davids Urges Passage of Bipartisan Farm Bill During Regional Agricultural Forum,2023-09-26,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, during a panel hosted by the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City (AgBizKC), Representative Sharice Davids highlighted the importance of passing a bipartisan Farm Bill to support Kansas farmers, ranchers, and producers. The Farm Bill, which contains provisions expiring on September 30, 2023, is a package of legislation reauthorized about every five years that includes several critically important agriculture, conservation, nutrition, and trade programs. Davids and Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01), who also participated in the conversation, both serve on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee.

“While traveling the Kansas Third on my Farm Bill listening tour, I saw firsthand how important Farm Bill programs are to the daily operations of our community’s farms and agribusinesses,” said Davids. “Thankfully, Kansans have two representatives on the House Ag Committee advocating for their priorities, me and Rep. Mann. The farmers and producers I spoke with agree that there’s no time to waste in passing a bipartisan Farm Bill that benefits Kansas producers and our economy, secures agricultural supply chains, and helps lower grocery costs.”

Davids and Mann’s conversation took place during the 9th annual Ag Outlook Forum, which was jointly hosted by AgBizKC and Agri-Pulse Communications to help local business leaders, trade executives, and producers find solutions to the current challenges facing their agricultural operations. During the discussion hosted by Blake Hurst of Hurst Farms, Davids laid out her priorities for a bipartisan Farm Bill, which include protecting crop insurance and strengthening agricultural research programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-calls-bipartisan-funding-agreement-avert-government-shutdown,Davids Calls for Bipartisan Funding Agreement to Avert Government Shutdown,2023-09-22,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"As the federal government is set to run out of funding on October 1, Representative Sharice Davids urged U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to advance a bipartisan funding agreement and avert a government shutdown, which would have drastic consequences for hardworking Kansans. She urged the Speaker to recommit to the fiscally responsible, bipartisan funding agreement that Congress and the administration negotiated this past May.

“There are only nine days until a government shutdown, but Congress has adjourned for the week without reaching a bipartisan deal to keep our federal government open or reauthorize important programs like the FAA and Farm Bill,” said Davids. “I’m committed to working together with Republicans and Democrats to advance the bipartisan legislation required to prevent a costly, harmful, and avoidable government shutdown. I continue to urge the Speaker to abide by his promise to pass bipartisan legislation that protects Kansans’ jobs, health, and financial security.”

In the letter, Davids and 97 of her New Democrat Coalition colleagues urged the Speaker to take up bipartisan legislation similar to those advanced by the Senate. That includes provisions to secure the southern border, stem the flow of illicit fentanyl into our communities, and provide support for Ukraine’s continued fight for freedom. The letter reads in part:

“We urge you to reject the hyperpartisan approach and focus on passing government funding legislation that can actually become law. In the absence of viable appropriations bills from the House Appropriations Committee, we urge you to, at the very least, bring bills similar to the bipartisan bills that have already passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee for a vote on the House Floor.

“Congress must pass extensions of critical federal programs set to expire, including Farm Bill programs, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Flood Insurance Program.

“As Members of Congress, our most basic duty is to keep the government running. Once again, as we face the looming deadline of September 30, we stand ready to work on a bipartisan, bicameral basis to uphold our responsibilities as lawmakers and ensure our government works on behalf of our constituents.”

Davids continues to push for a bipartisan agreement to keep the government open. A shutdown would have serious impacts on Kansas families and the overall U.S. economy. Americans would face disruptions to important benefits, service members would not be compensated, many small businesses would have to alter their operations, and federal workers would be furloughed and go unpaid. Specifically:

It’s estimated the five-week partial government shutdown in 2018-2019 reduced economic output by $11 billion in the following two quarters and the 2013 full government shutdown reduced GDP growth by $20 billion.

Kansans receiving Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits would experience significant service delays, including severe disruptions to verifying benefits and the issuance of new cards.

There are currently 19,977 federal workers in Kansas who may be furloughed. A bipartisan report found that the last three government shutdowns led to the equivalent of 56,940 years in lost productivity from federal workers.

The distribution of important food assistance programs, including SNAP, could be disrupted, increasing hunger for low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants, young children, and families.

Small businesses would encounter delays in receiving loans from the federal government. Moody’s Analytics estimated that the 2018-2019 shutdown delayed more than $2 billion in loans to small businesses.

Travelers could face longer lines at airport security checkpoints and flight delays during a shutdown, which would also delay passport processing times even further.

Davids serves on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Agriculture Committee, which are responsible for overseeing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Farm Bill reauthorizations, respectively. Both reauthorizations are set to expire after September 30 alongside general federal government funding. Without further action from Congress, these expirations would negatively impact Kansans’ ability to support their families and run their businesses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-wraps-farm-bill-listening-tour-advocates-kansas-agriculture-community,"Davids Wraps Farm Bill Listening Tour, Advocates for Kansas Agriculture Community: Here’s What They’re Saying",2023-09-19,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"As we near the Farm Bill reauthorization deadline, Representative Sharice Davids recently completed her Farm Bill listening tour. Throughout her tour, Davids visited farms, ranches, businesses, and schools across Kansas’ Third District to hear Kansans’ priorities for the 2023 Farm Bill. The Farm Bill, which contains provisions expiring on September 30, 2023, is a package of legislation reauthorized about every five years that includes several critically important agriculture, conservation, nutrition, and trade programs. Davids serves on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee.

“As Kansas’ Third District became more rural last summer, I immediately joined the House Agriculture Committee and made it my mission to learn from as many Kansas agricultural professionals as possible,” said Davids. “Our state’s farms and agricultural businesses play a vital role in our state's economy, history, and future. During the Farm Bill reauthorization process and beyond, I will continue supporting policies that will benefit Kansas producers and the millions of people around the world they feed. I’m looking forward to visiting more agricultural operations across the Third District soon!""

WATCH: Earlier today, Davids spoke on the importance of passing a bipartisan Farm Bill to support Kansas producers

As part of her Farm Bill listening tour, Davids previously visited a poultry and livestock operation in Anderson County, a co-op in Franklin County, a goat farm in Miami County, an organic vegetable farm in Johnson County, and an educational community farm in Wyandotte County. Davids also toured a Garnett-based renewable ethanol producer, participated in FFA activities at Spring Hill High School, served a school lunch at Black Bob Elementary in Olathe, spoke with industry leaders on financial support programs for farmers, and toured a dairy farm in Garnett.

Kansas farmers, ranchers, producers, and business leaders joined Davids on her Farm Bill listening tour. Here’s what they’re saying:

“I commend Rep. Sharice Davids for getting out to farms and ranches to better understand agriculture and how important Farm Bill programs are to a safe, affordable and abundant food supply,” said Joe Newland, President, Kansas Farm Bureau. “I look forward to continue working with Rep. Davids and her colleagues in Washington to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill to support Kansas farmers, ranchers and consumers.”

“We are honored that Congresswoman Davids selected Kansas Farmers Union state board director Rosanna Bauman’s family's Cedar Valley Farms as the kick-off of her Farm Bill listening tours,” said Donn Teske, President, Kansas Farmers Union. “The Baumans are the perfect example of true family farming, and of everyone pulling in the harness together to better their farm and their community. The Farm Bill discussions should be focused on ensuring such family farms can thrive and prosper in the years ahead.”

“I commend Rep. Davids for taking the time to visit with a wide scope of farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses across her district,” said Mike Beam, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture. “Hearing their stories and getting their input will be instrumental as she works toward passage of a Farm Bill that will benefit Kansans.”

“USDA Rural Development Programs are essential to the future of our state’s rural communities,” said Christy Davis, Kansas State Rural Development Director, U.S. Department of Agriculture. “Our programs, which account for 1% of Farm Bill funding, assist with housing, infrastructure, healthcare, broadband, business, and community projects in rural Kansas. Every day, these programs make a clear statement that rural America matters, that our underserved communities deserve time, attention, and investment.”

“We appreciate Representative Davids’ interest in agriculture in her district. As a member of the House Ag Committee, she has made an impressive effort to be informed and active on our issues,” said Josh Roe, CEO, Kansas Corn Growers Association. “We were happy to help with some of her stops where she learned about sustainable farming practices with KCGA member Hayden Guetterman at Bucyrus, visited the East Kansas Agri Energy ethanol plant in Garnett, and stopped by Kansas Corn’s Garnett office to learn about our Kansas Corn STEM education program that reached over 100,000 Kansas students last year.”

“We appreciate Rep. Davids for taking the time to visit several agribusiness and producer constituencies in the last year,” said Ron Seeber, President and CEO, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association, Renew Kansas Biofuels Association. “The diverse Kansas-based operations, agribusinesses and individuals Rep. Davids met with all highlighted the importance of agriculture in our state and shared the need for congress to support passage of a bipartisan 2023 Farm Bill.”

“I appreciate and respect the effort Rep. Davids committed to hearing the priorities of Kansans regarding reauthorizing the Farm Bill,” said Mike Beying, Branch Manager, Ottawa Cooperative. “I trust that Rep. Davids will utilize her experiences from the listening tour to strengthen the Farm Bill that is so critical to our farmers, ranchers, and agricultural services.”

“The Farm Bill is essential for American agriculture and everyone who eats,” said Chelsea Good, Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs, Livestock Marketing Association. “We appreciated Congresswoman Davids visiting a livestock auction market in district to learn more about the critical role sale barns like these pay for the producers and communities they serve.”

""It has been great to have Rep. Davids come to KC Farm School to learn from community members about how the Farm Bill can impact us,” said Lydia Nebel, Farm Director, KC Farm School. “She is always so open to hearing everyone's stories, sharing her own, and willing to balance the big picture along with the important details. I can tell she and her team have really leaned in during this tour to listen deeply with strong intention of supporting her constituents of all kinds. We look forward to hearing how Rep. Davids takes our stories back to D.C. to ensure an equitable and impactful Farm Bill.""

“Representative Davids has listened to farmers and ranchers in Kansas, demonstrating her commitment to agriculture and a strong farm bill,” said Shane Tiffany, board member, Frontier Farm Credit. “We thank her for taking time to deepen her understanding of crop insurance and safety net programs that secure our food system. The conversations she has had with producers will be important to her work on the House Agriculture Committee as it continues to discuss the 2023 Farm Bill.”

“Making good farm policy starts with knowing the needs of farmers,” said Tom Buller, Executive Director, Kansas Rural Center. “The Kansas Rural Center applauds Representative Davids for investing the time to really get to know more about farmers and agriculture in her district. Kansas farmers and communities rely upon the support of the Federal Government, and we encourage Congress to move quickly to pass a bi-partisan Farm Bill that boosts food access for all Kansans and strengthens farm viability for all farmers across the state.”

""I appreciate Representative Davids for wanting to be on the House Ag Committee then stepping up to learn as much about agriculture as possible in her district and how that relates to the entire state,” said Bill Pracht, CEO, East Kansas Agri Energy. “She is learning the ethanol industry and her visit to East Kansas Agri-Energy was a chance to educate her on the importance of the ethanol plant to farmers, livestock producers, and consumers in this district.""

“There is no legislation passed by Congress that has a bigger impact on the food security of our nation than the Farm Bill,” said Stephen Davis, President and CEO, Harvesters. “We are proud to work with Congresswoman Davids to develop and pass a bipartisan Farm Bill that will create healthier communities and support both farmers and families.”

“I appreciate Rep. Davids’ efforts of reaching out to the diverse agriculture producers and business across the district,” said Hayden Guetterman, owner, Guetterman Brothers Family Farms. “I hope she continues to maintain the connections and relationships she has built among us. I hope through this tour she gained much insight it takes to produce agriculture products and get them to the table.”

“School meal programs are a key support pillar for public schools in Kansas,” said Steven Newman, Assistant Director of Operations, Olathe Public Schools Food Services. “We want to ensure Olathe Public Schools meals remain healthy and reasonably priced for our students and families. We appreciate being given the opportunity to be a part of this process. We are hopeful that our comments lead to improvements that will ultimately positively impact students in the lunchroom as well as the classroom.”

""To pass a strong, bipartisan Farm Bill, all roads lead to Kansas,” said Haley Kottler, Thriving and Integrated Voter Engagement Director, Kansas Appleseed. “We must ensure Kansans across the state- and across our entire country- can put food on the table for themselves and their families. Representative David's Farm Bill listening tour highlighted the struggles farmers are experiencing to produce their crops and the struggles Kansans are facing to feed their families. We must work together to close this gap and ensure a strong bill.""

“We appreciate the inclusivity of Rep. Davids’ listening session for specialty crop growers and KC area ag business representatives that was held at K-State’s OHREC,” said Dr. Cary Rivard, Director, K-State Olathe Horticulture Research and Extension Center (OHREC). “It was important to have all segments of Kansas agriculture included in listening sessions to fully understand how the Farm Bill impacts agriculture as a whole industry.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-cleaver-celebrate-new-regional-hospital-network-improving-rural-health,"Davids, Cleaver Celebrate New Regional Hospital Network Improving Rural Health Care",2023-09-18,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) celebrated the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) $6.3 million award for the establishment of the All of Us Heartland Consortium, a collection of Midwest research hospitals working together to advance individual health outcomes. Led by the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), the Heartland Consortium also includes academic medical centers at the University of Iowa, the University of Missouri, and the University of Nebraska.

In its first year, the consortium, which represents the first of its kind in the Midwest, seeks to enroll more than 6,000 participants who reflect the diversity of the United States. In June, Davids and Cleaver joined Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Jake LaTurner (KS-02), and Cori Bush (MO-01) to advocate in support of this project.

“While Americans living in rural areas face unique health challenges,including higher rates of chronic disease and a lack of access to specialist care, they are often underrepresented in biomedical research,” said Davids. “The Heartland Consortium will ensure all Kansans, no matter where they live, can benefit from a wide range of prevention strategies and individualized treatment options. With their top-notch research personnel and commitment to quality care, the KU Medical Center is perfectly situated to lead this program.”

“The Heartland Consortium is excited that our region will now be a part of the national All of Us Research Program, helping to further precision medicine research by ensuring people in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa are represented,” said Akinlolu Ojo, M.D., Executive Dean and consortium principal investigator, University of Kansas School of Medicine. “Our participation was made possible by the substantial resources and researcher expertise from disciplines across the KU schools of Health Professions, Medicine and Nursing and from other consortium members from our four-state region.”

The All of Us program promises to advance precision medicine and fundamentally transform disease prevention and treatment by accounting for social, environmental, and biological influences on individual health. The Heartland Consortium aims to reach a wide variety of participants, with special emphasis on those in rural areas, as well as other groups historically underrepresented in research. Now, researchers have access to comprehensive data from a diverse population of participants to drive future studies and treatments of all types of disease.

“The All of Us Heartland Consortium is a commonsense initiative that will ensure Americans from the Midwest, particularly those in rural areas, are well-represented in one of the most comprehensive public health research programs to date,” said Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05). “By combining the reach and tremendous research capabilities of these world-renowned universities and academic medical institutions, we can ensure that the All of Us Research Program is a success that leads to the development of new and improved health care for Americans of all backgrounds. That’s something I will always support, and I’m excited to see the benefits it brings to Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District and beyond.”

Since its founding, the All of Us program has created a national research resource that includes comprehensive and confidential health information from more than 1 million people in the United States. Unlike research studies that focus on one disease or group of people, All of Us is building a diverse and secure database that can inform thousands of studies on a variety of health conditions. The award highlighted today has the potential for review and additional funding every year for four years.

“It’s vital that the All of Us Research Program reflect the true diversity of the United States to allow researchers to better understand how differences in what it’s like where we live, our lifestyle and DNA impact our health and disease,” said Holly A. Garriock, Ph.D., Chief Cohort Development Officer, National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Research Program. “The Heartland Consortium will provide opportunities for more communities to participate in medical research and be represented in the All of Us dataset, enabling researchers to discover breakthroughs relevant to their communities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grant-help-eliminate-kansas-dna-backlog,Davids Announces Federal Grant to Help Eliminate Kansas’ DNA Backlog,2023-09-15,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Justice has awarded the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) with $530,000 to speed processing times of forensic DNA samples. The federal grant, provided by the DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program, will help Kansas law enforcement reduce violent crime, support local prosecutors, and create safer communities across the state.

“Since coming to Congress, it’s been my mission to boost support for Kansas law enforcement, so folks can feel safe and protected in our community,” said Davids. “Working to eliminate the current DNA backlog will help ensure our justice system moves efficiently and Kansans are protected. I’m proud to have brought these new investments home to Kansas, especially for the KBI laboratory in Kansas City, KS.”

Since at least 2009, the KBI has dealt with a DNA backlog that has reached more than 31,000 delayed tests at times. While national statistics on backlogged DNA cases are difficult to track, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the number of backlogged requests for crime scene DNA analysis jumped by 85% nationally between 2011 and 2017.

“The KBI relies on these federal dollars in order to more efficiently analyze DNA evidence,” said Tony Mattivi, Director, Kansas Bureau of Investigation. “We are grateful for Representative Davids’ support and the assistance of the entire congressional delegation in our efforts to enhance public safety.”

To promote safer communities, the new federal investment will be used to:

Hire two new forensic scientists to reduce backlog and improve turnaround times;

Provide training and required continuing education for analysts;

Provide additional employee pay for the completion of supplementary casework tasks;

Replace an aging real time quantitation instrument;

Purchase new laboratory supplies for the validation of the new quantitation instrument;

Purchase appropriate technology to provide a large, safe, and secure network storage location for electronic DNA files.

“Law enforcement agencies, including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, ensure the safety and well-being of our communities – and Kansas’ three DNA testing laboratories are an essential part of their work,” said KansasGovernor Laura Kelly. “This funding will be essential to create more jobs for scientists and technicians, purchase modern technology, and decrease backlogs and wait times on critical DNA tests.”

Since being sworn in, Davids has worked to provide Kansas law enforcement officers with the tools needed to keep communities safe. She secured funding for the Olathe Police Department’s Mobile Command Unit and announced federal resources to hire additional law enforcement officers in Wyandotte County. She previously voted for historic, bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to keep Kansans safe and a bill giving officers access to disability benefits for job-related PTSD. Most recently, she went on a ride-along with an Overland Park law enforcement officer and participated in trainings at the Johnson County Regional Police Academy.

Background

The KBI Forensic Science Laboratory is responsible for the analysis of evidentiary samples from possible crimes for all state and local law enforcement agencies and medical examiners offices within Kansas. The KBI has four laboratories within the system, three of which conduct DNA testing. The three laboratories conducting DNA testing are in Great Bend, Topeka, and Kansas City. The KBI laboratory in Topeka also houses the Databank Laboratory.

The DNA CEBR Program increases the number of forensic DNA and DNA database samples processed for entry into the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) by providing funding for laboratories to process DNA samples and to increase their capacity to process the DNA samples for CODIS upload.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-celebrates-federal-investments-affordable-rural-housing-kansas-third,Davids Celebrates Federal Investments for Affordable Rural Housing in Kansas’ Third District,2023-09-13,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) has awarded two communities in Kansas’ Third District with federal funds to develop affordable rural housing. The investments stem in part from the American Rescue Plan, which Davids was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to support.

“Because hard-working families are still dealing with inflationary pressures, I’m squarely focused on making life more affordable for all Kansans. That certainly includes developing new, affordable housing options throughout Kansas’ Third District,” said Davids. “This new federal grant, which I am proud to have supported, will help build and rehabilitate affordable housing in our state, decreasing housing instability and easing housing costs over time.”

In total, 20 Kansas projects will receive $19 million to develop affordable housing for moderate-income families in rural areas of the state. In Kansas’ Third District, awardees include:

Ottawa - $400,000

To develop 11 multi-family rental units at Legacy Lofts

Bonner Springs - $1,700,000

To develop 100 multi-family rental units at 120 Oak

“Kansas Housing is honored to roll out this latest round of housing investments across the state, including in the 3rd Congressional District,” said Ryan Vincent, Executive Director, Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. “Investing in quality, affordable homes is key to economic development, job growth, and vibrant communities. By leveraging essential federal funding sources like the American Rescue Plan with state and private capital to fill the development cost gaps, KHRC is unlocking home and investing in Kansans and our communities.”

“The Unified Government has been studying housing needs as we complete a countywide market analysis later this month,” said David Johnston, County Administrator, Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas. “The addition of 100 units in the City of Bonner Springs will help us address the growing demand for quality, affordable housing countywide. We appreciate the continued support of Representative Davids.”

The 20 projects will benefit from the Kansas’ Moderate Income Housing (MIH), MIH-American Rescue Plan Act (MIH-ARPA), and Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (KHITC) programs. Combined with the amount leveraged by each community, the awards represent a total investment of $90,933,755 and a net gain of 513 affordable, quality housing units in Kansas.

Davids voted for the American Rescue Plan to bring targeted COVID relief to Kansas and help distribute life-saving vaccines, keep schools and businesses open, and support Kansans through the biggest public health and economic crisis in generations. Since its passage, Kansas has seen its positive impact —boosting child care services in Shawnee, implementing tax cuts for middle-class families, and connecting Kansans to new opportunities through the Kansas City Streetcar expansion — in every corner of Kansas’ Third District. Under the American Rescue Plan, Medicaid expansion in Kansas would also be completely paid for through the first two years, meaning another 165,000 Kansans getting the health care they need.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-introduces-legislation-support-women-business-owners,Davids Introduces Legislation to Support Women Business Owners,2023-09-12,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Recently, Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03), along with Representative Nydia Velazquez (NY-07), introduced the Women’s Business Centers Improvement Act, which would increase access to resources and opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Kansas and across the country. Davids’ bill passed the U.S. House with bipartisan support in 2019 and 2022.

The Women’s Business Center (WBC) program was established 35 years ago to help women entrepreneurs succeed, and now boasts nearly 150 locations throughout the U.S. These centers serve more than 150,000 business owners annually — including the Kansas City WBC in Overland Park, KS, which reached more than 800 clients last year. WBCs provide free, to low-cost counseling and training and focus on women who want to start, grow, and expand their small business.

“While women-owned businesses employ 9.4 million people nationwide and contribute $1.2 trillion to our economy each year, these entrepreneurs often face increased challenges in starting and growing a business. By properly funding resources like Women’s Business Centers, we can increase access to credit and vital training services that help set entrepreneurs up for success,” said Davids. “The Third District has an amazing entrepreneurial ecosystem, and I’m proud to lead bipartisan legislation that will spur even further innovation and economic opportunity here at home.”

“As the Executive Director of the Kansas City WBC, I am thrilled to see Representatives Sharice Davids’ and Nydia Velazquez’s leadership in introducing legislation to reauthorize the WBC program,” said Brande Stitt, Executive Director, Kansas City Women’s Business Center. “Amidst the other priorities in Washington this fall, I ask the House of Representatives, and all of the 118th Congress, to recognize the significant need for the reauthorization of our program and prioritize its passage in a bipartisan manner. We are thankful for Representative Davids’ evergreen commitment to the WBC program, and women-owned businesses in Kansas, and ask that both Democrats and Republicans come to the table to enable this legislation to become law.”

The Women’s Business Centers Improvement Act increases federal support to WBCs by doubling the maximum annual grant award to $300,000 for individual centers, reauthorizes the WBC program for four years, and increases the total authorization level for the first time since the program began. The bill also establishes an accreditation program run by the Association of Women’s Business Centers to ensure all WBCs provide excellent service and counseling.

The Kansas City WBC serves Kansas entrepreneurs through business trainings, workshops, counseling, and access to capital programs targeted at women business owners. In 2021, the KC WBC assisted 513 local small business owners. The Kansas City WBC shared their impactful work with Congress during a House Small Business Committee hearing chaired by Davids in June 2021.

“Women are at the center of the American economy. They comprise nearly half the workforce and own an estimated 42 percent of all U.S. businesses,” said Representative Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Ranking Member, U.S. House Small Business Committee. “This bill will modernize and strengthen the WBC program to help ensure women entrepreneurs across the country have access to the counseling and training they need to thrive. I thank Rep. Davids for her work on this vital topic, and I’m proud to introduce this bill that will boost women-owned businesses nationwide alongside her.”

“AWBC applauds the recent introduction of the Women’s Business Centers Improvement Act cosponsored by Congresswoman Sharice Davids and Nydia Velazquez,” said Corinne Goble, CEO, Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC). “This introduction follows our Annual Leadership Conference, where executives from the 145 Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) gathered in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the WBC program, the 25th anniversary of AWBC as an organization, and advocate on Capitol Hill for program reauthorization. We appreciate our concerns being heard and are supportive of the progress being made in both the House of Representatives and Senate to bring the program into the 21st century. As the WBC program continues to prove its impact by serving hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs across the United States, we look forward to working with Congress to find a bipartisan avenue for its passage.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-continues-farm-bill-listening-tour-garnett-dairy-farm,Davids Continues Farm Bill Listening Tour at Garnett Dairy Farm,2023-09-08,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GARNETT, KS --Today, Representative Sharice Davids visited the Ratliff Jerseys dairy farm in Garnett as part of her Farm Bill listening tour. After a tour of the family-run operation, Davids spoke with local dairy farmers to learn what Farm Bill provisions they utilize to run a successful small business. Throughout her tour, Davids has visited farms, ranches, and businesses across the Third District to prepare for the 2023 Farm Bill. Davids serves on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee.

""I'm on a listening tour throughout our community to bring Kansans’ Farm Bill priorities back to Washington, including the dairy farmers I chatted with today,"" said Davids. ""I'm optimistic Republicans and Democrats will find common ground to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill that supports our entire food system and economy. That starts with listening to and understanding Kansans' daily experiences, from all corners of our district.""

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Representative Sharice Davids visiting Ratliff Jerseys dairy farm on her Farm Bill listening tour.

Along with Ratliff Jerseys owners, Davids hosted a roundtable conversation with representatives from Midwest Dairy and other local dairy farmers. They discussed key topics in this year's farm bill, including the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program, which provides risk protection to dairy producers when milk prices are low and/or feed costs are high. The Farm Bill, which is typically reauthorized every five years, is set to expire on September 30, 2023.

Ratliff Jerseys is owned and operated by Ron and Christy Ratliff in Garnett, KS with 60 milking cows and an equal number of replacement heifers. The dairy farm got its start as a 4-H project for Christy more than 30 years ago and has become an award-winning operation. The Ratliffs also operate a small herd of beef cattle. Christy is president of the Kansas Jersey Cattle Association and serves on the Kansas Dairy Commission.

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Representative Sharice Davids with Kansas dairy farmers, including Rob Leach, Lisa Leach, and Christi Ratliff.

As part of her Farm Bill listening tour, Davids previously visited a poultry and livestock operation in Anderson County, a co-op in Franklin County, a no-till farm in Miami County, an organic vegetable farm in Johnson County, and an educational community farm in Wyandotte County. Davids also toured a Garnett-based renewable ethanol producer, participated in FFA activities at Spring Hill High School, served a school lunch at Black Bob Elementary in Olathe, and spoke with industry leaders on financial support programs for farmers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-attends-jccc-yellow-corp-job-fair-distributes-new-job-seekers-guide,"Davids Attends JCCC Yellow Corp. Job Fair, Distributes New Job Seekers Guide",2023-09-07,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OVERLAND PARK, KS– Today, Representative Sharice Davids and her team took part in Johnson County Community College’s Yellow Corporation (Yellow Corp.) Re-Employment Job Fair, where they distributed a new Job Seekers Guide. Davids’ resource guide, meant to help laid off Yellow Corp. employees support themselves and their families while searching for new employment, includes federal, state, and local resources to apply for emergency unemployment insurance, find new career opportunities, and lower costs on everyday necessities.

“On top of already high costs for everyday goods, the former Yellow employees I spoke with today must now find a new way to support their families after being laid off a month ago,” said Davids. “I’m working with Johnson County Community College to support these folks and ensure they can find new career opportunities. My Job Seekers Guide will hopefully be a useful tool that compiles federal, state, and local resources in one place to save Kansans time during this transition period.”

Davids’ Job Seekers Guide contains many resources former Yellow Corp. employees, as well as other Kansans looking for work, can utilize during the transition from one job to another. The resources include:

Finding New Employment: Kansans looking for a new or higher-paying job can utilize local resources from Workforce Partnership or Kansas’ Job Hiring Portal. Federal programs through the U.S. Department of Labor, including Career One Stop and USAJobs, are also available.

Lowering Costs: Kansans struggling to pay for necessities while looking for a new job can find help lowering the cost of housing, utility bills, gas, and groceries.

Helping Transition Between Jobs: Kansans who lose access to health insurance can find resources to apply for affordable health coverage, as well as information on emergency unemployment insurance.

Starting a Business: Kansans looking to start their own business can find help through the Kansas Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Johnson County Community College and the Kansas City Women's Business Center.

“As the local workforce development board, Workforce Partnership is uniquely suited to serve every Overland Park Yellow employee laid off from work with an array of services, regardless of the employee’s salary or county of residence,” said Keely J. Schneider, Executive Director, Workforce Partnership. “These dislocated worker services are made possible by the federal government’s investment in our local workforce system and we deeply appreciate Representative Davids’ commitment to that investment and her support of our nation’s workforce needs.”

“Johnson County Community College Workforce Development & Continuing Education offers multiple resources to support job seekers, through our Small Business Development Center, which offers business startup and growth classes to equip individuals with the tools and resources to structure, launch and manage a business,” said Jessica Johnson, Regional Director, Small Business Development Center. “JCCC also offers Continuing Education Training Awards to provide funding for training and skill building for unemployed or underemployed Johnson County residents. We appreciate the opportunity to make these resources aware to the public and Representative Sharice Davids efforts continuing to highlight workforce needs with in the county.”

WATCH: Davids released her new Job Seekers Guide last week while speaking at JCCC.

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Yellow Corp., a former transportation and trucking company, filed for bankruptcy last month and laid off 30,000 employees across the nation, including 990 workers at their Overland Park office. For 98 years, the company’s headquarters was located in Overland Park. Now, the Kansans who worked at Yellow Corp. unexpectedly must find new career opportunities to continue supporting their families.

While our economy is seeing record numbers of good-paying job creation, Davids has been squarely focused on boosting workforce opportunities for Kansans, including form Yellow Corp. employees. She was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law, which is creating good-paying construction jobs at home. Davids also voted for major bipartisan manufacturing legislation last year, which has already generated more than 100,000 jobs nationwide. Finally, Davids previously announced Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country over the past year.

Davids also encourages all Kansans to visit her Lower Costs webpage to find resources within the newly released guide and many more that can help Kansas families.

Image",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-continues-farm-bill-listening-tour-highlights-financial-support-kansas,"Davids Continues Farm Bill Listening Tour, Highlights Financial Support for Kansas Farmers",2023-09-06,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OTTAWA, KS– Yesterday, Representative Sharice Davids visited the Barnes Family Farm in Ottawa as part of her Farm Bill listening tour. After a tour of the family-run operation, Davids spoke with industry leaders and local farmers and ranchers about the importance of financial support through farm credit programs and crop insurance. Her tour will continue at farms, ranches, and businesses across the Third District as Davids considers the 2023 Farm Bill through her position on the House Agriculture Committee. The Barnes Family Farm produces wheat, corn, and soybeans.

""I'm on a listening tour throughout our community to bring Kansans’ Farm Bill priorities back to Washington, including the priorities of the Barnes family whom I chatted with today,"" said Davids. ""I'm optimistic Republicans and Democrats will find common ground to pass a bipartisan Farm Bill that supports our entire food system and economy. That starts with listening to and understanding Kansans' daily experiences, from all corners of our district.""

“We had the privilege of having Representative Sharice Davids join a discussion about the reauthorization of the farm bill and understanding Farm Credit’s mission focused on supporting farmers and ranchers today and tomorrow,” said Shane Tiffany, board member, Frontier Farm Credit. “Fulfilling our mission also means supporting rural Kansas with financial services to keep them thriving and growing. We are thankful Representative Davids hears our commitment, and also supports our Kansas producers.”

The Farm Bill is typically reauthorized every five years and includes provisions directly related to farm credit and crop insurance. The credit portion improves access to credit for producers to buy land and operate farms and ranches. The crop insurance portion enhances risk management tools to help protect farmers and ranchers against declines in crop yields and/or revenue. Along with local famers, representatives from Frontier Farm Credit, American AgCredit, and CoBank joined the roundtable to discuss their work supporting Kansas farmers.

As part of her Farm Bill listening tour, Davids previously visited a poultry and livestock operation in Anderson County, a co-op in Franklin County, a no-till farm in Miami County, an organic vegetable farm in Johnson County, and an educational community farm in Wyandotte County. Davids also toured a Garnett-based renewable ethanol producer, participated in FFA activities at Spring Hill High School, and served a school lunch at Black Bob Elementary in Olathe.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-visits-new-century-aircenter-discusses-impact-upcoming-faa,"Davids Visits New Century AirCenter, Discusses Impact of Upcoming FAA Reauthorization",2023-09-06,2023,2023-09,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NEW CENTURY, KS - Today,Representative Sharice Davids visited the New Century AirCenter to share her priorities for the upcoming Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization discussions. Davids and Bryan Johnson, the recently appointedexecutive director of the Johnson County Airport Commission, toured the 81-year-old air traffic control tower and visited the new commerce center.

Davids, a member of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, now prepares to negotiate compromised legislation with her House and Senate colleagues before the 2018 FAA reauthorization expires on September 30, 2023.

“Our entire economy relies heavily on reliable air travel of people and goods to keep our communities moving and maintain a strong domestic supply chain,” said Davids. “I’m focused on reauthorizing the FAA, so Kansans are protected financially, feel safe while flying, and have access to good-paying aviation manufacturing jobs. This legislation would benefit New Century AirCenter and all airports in the KC metro area, and I look forward to working with Republicans and Democrats on the final compromise when I get back to Washington.”

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Representative Sharice Davids visits New Century AirCenter to discuss the upcoming FAA reauthorization process.

Davids toured New Century AirCenter’s 81-year-old air traffic control center, which Johnson County official have prioritized for upgrade due to structural and safety deficiencies. Construction of the new tower may be eligible for bipartisan infrastructure law investments. Davids also visited the New Century Commerce Center, which houses over 60 companies in the fields of warehousing, distribution, printing, food processing, manufacturing, and avionics. Cnano Technology USA, a paste manufacture for electric batteries, recently announced they would expand operations to the commerce center and create 112 local jobs.

“Rep. Davids was instrumental in the support and passage of the House FAA reauthorization bill, which will directly benefit New Century and Executive airports,” said Bryan Johnson, Executive Director, Johnson County Airport Commission. “The bill addresses prioritizing General Aviation airports and provides a funding mechanism to address our nation's GA hangar shortage, and requiring 100LL be available at airports until an unleaded fuel replacement for the fleet is widely available.”

In July, Davids supported bipartisan legislation to fund the FAA for the next five years and provide new guidance and standards for the agency. Specifically, it would improve airline customer protections and accessibility, increase America’s aviation safety standards, and strengthen U.S. aviation workforce and manufacturing. It also includes provisions to help reduce runway near misses, which are often caused by air traffic controllers stretched thin by a nationwide staffing shortage. After the Senate passes their version of the bill, the House and Senate will come together to find a compromise that reauthorizes the FAA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-releases-new-job-seekers-guide-former-yellow-employees,WATCH: Davids Releases New Job Seekers Guide for Former Yellow Employees,2023-08-31,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids released a Job Seekers Guide to help former Yellow Corporation (Yellow Corp.) employees, who were laid off earlier this month, support themselves and their families while searching for new employment. The guide includes federal, state, and local resources to apply for emergency unemployment insurance, find new career opportunities, and lower costs on everyday necessities. While releasing the guide during a press conference at Johnson County Community College (JCCC), Davids also promoted an upcoming job fair at JCCC on September 7th.

“On top of already high costs for everyday goods, nearly 1,000 former Yellow employees in the Kansas City area must now find a new way to support their families after being laid off a month ago,” said Davids. “I’m working to support these folks and ensure they can find new career opportunities. I am hopeful my office’s new Job Seekers Guide will be a useful tool that compiles federal, state, and local resources in one place to help folks get back on their feet.”

Davids’ Job Seekers Guide contains many resources former Yellow Corp. employees, as well as other Kansans looking for work, can utilize during the transition from one job to another. The resources include:

Finding New Employment: Kansans looking for a new or higher-paying job can utilize local resources from Workforce Partnership or Kansas’ Job Hiring Portal. Federal programs through the U.S. Department of Labor, including Career One Stop and USAJobs, are also available.

Lowering Costs: Kansans struggling to pay for necessities while looking for a new job can find help lowering the cost of housing, utility bills, gas, and groceries.

Helping Transition Between Jobs: Kansans who lose access to health insurance can find resources to apply for affordable health coverage, as well as information on emergency unemployment insurance.

Starting a Business: Kansans looking to start their own business can find help through the Kansas Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Johnson County Community College and the Kansas City Women's Business Center.

“As the local workforce development board, Workforce Partnership is uniquely suited to serve every Overland Park Yellow employee laid off from work with an array of services, regardless of the employee’s salary or county of residence,” said Keely J. Schneider, Executive Director, Workforce Partnership. “Affected employees can receive job search and resume assistance, as well as help brushing up on their interview skills, as well as more intensive services if needed, such as career navigation and funding to re-train or upskill into a new career. These dislocated worker services are made possible by the federal government’s investment in our local workforce system and we deeply appreciate Representative Davids’ commitment to that investment and her support of our nation’s workforce needs.”

“Johnson County Community College Workforce Development & Continuing Education offers multiple resources to support job seekers, through our Small Business Development Center, which offers business startup and growth classes to equip individuals with the tools and resources to structure, launch and manage a business,” said Jessica Johnson, Regional Director, Small Business Development Center. “JCCC also offers Continuing Education Training Awards to provide funding for training and skill building for unemployed or underemployed Johnson County residents. JCCC has partnered with Workforce Partnership and the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce to host a Yellow Re-Employment Job Fair on September 7th. We appreciate the opportunity to make these resources aware to the public and Representative Sharice Davids efforts continuing to highlight workforce needs with in the county.”

Yellow Corp., a former transportation and trucking company, filed for bankruptcy earlier this month and laid off 30,000 employees across the nation, including 990 workers at their Overland Park office. For 98 years, the company’s headquarters was located in Overland Park. Now, the Kansans who worked at Yellow Corp. unexpectedly must find new career opportunities to continue supporting their families.

While our economy is seeing record numbers of good-paying job creation, Davids has been squarely focused on boosting workforce opportunities for Kansans, including form Yellow Corp. employees. She was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law, which is creating good-paying construction jobs at home. Davids also voted for major bipartisan manufacturing legislation last year, which has already generated over 100,000 jobs nationwide. Finally, Davids previously announced Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country over the past year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grants-university-kansas-cancer-center,Davids Announces Federal Grants for University of Kansas Cancer Center,2023-08-30,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded two grants totaling $1,197,968 to the University of Kansas Cancer Center (KUCC) to advance cancer treatment, cause, and prevention research. Last week, Davids also announced multiple federal grants to boost medical research capabilities at the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC).

“The University of Kansas Cancer Center is critical for the health and wellbeing of folks in our state and beyond,” said Davids. “As the only NCI-designated cancer center in our region, the University of Kansas’ center ensures Kansas families can stay close to their loved ones while they receive world-class care. I’m glad I could help bring these resources home to Kansas, where they’ll help boost cancer research and treatment.”

The two grants awarded to the University of Kansas Cancer Center will be used for:

Cancer Treatment Research – $614,361

The federal resources will be used to reduce post-operative complications from the surgical treatment of advanced bladder cancer. Specifically, researchers will seek to better understand how increased nutrition supports the immune system, reduces infections, and preserves muscle.

Cancer Cause and Prevention Research – $583,607

The federal resources will support a new five-year study to increase the screening, treatment, and follow-up care of cervical cancer in Kenya. This study builds on a decade of research between KUMC and multiple research partners in Kenya to improve patient outcomes and reduce health disparities in low resource and rural settings.

“The funding crucial to see this work to completion,” said Dr. Jill Hamilton-Reeves, Associate Professor, Dietetics and Nutrition, University of Kansas Cancer Center. “We anticipate enrolling the final few patients by this fall, this specific grant funds the work to dive deeper into the science at the bench with patient samples guided by word renowned experts in immunology, metabolism, and microbiology.”

“These federal research funds will allow us to evaluate low-cost strategies to increase cervical cancer screening and support treatment completion in rural and low-resource settings to improve patient outcomes,” said Dr. Sarah Kessler,PhD, MPH, University of Kansas Cancer Center. “We are extremely grateful for this investment and opportunity.”

Background:

The University of Kansas Cancer Center has nearly 350 researchers and 150 disease-specific oncologists. They conduct all phases of cancer research, from laboratory studies to clinical trials to population-based studies that address environmental and behavioral factors that contribute to cancer. Research operations have already contributed an estimated $2.5 billion in economic impact to the region since 2007 when the center began working toward NCI designation in earnest.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grant-lower-utility-costs-reduce-air-pollution-kansas,"Davids Announces Federal Grant to Lower Utility Costs, Reduce Air Pollution in Kansas",2023-08-24,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded Kansas with $4 million to reduce harmful air pollution and clean up the state’s environment. The Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program was created by the Inflation Reduction Act, which is the most significant climate legislation in U.S. history. Davids was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to support the law.

“We need innovative solutions to combat the climate crisis, grow our economy, and leave behind a healthier world for our children. That’s exactly why I voted for the historic climate law that’s not only cleaning up our environment, but also lowering Kansans’ utility costs through affordable, domestically produced clean-energy systems such as solar panels and more energy-efficient household appliances,” said Davids. “I am glad to see these federal resources are coming home to Kansas where folks will feel the benefits directly.”

The CPRG program provides grants to states, local governments, tribes, and territories to develop and implement plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution. The EPA has announced Phase 1 planning awards to update existing climate, energy, or sustainability plans, or to develop new plans. Awards benefiting Kansas include:

State of Kansas: $3,000,000

Kansas City Metro Area: $1,000,000

“The historic Inflation Reduction Act recognizes that we hold the power to mitigate the effects of climate change and create a world where clean air and water are the birthright of everyone,” said Mike Kelly, Chairman, Johnson County Board of Commissioners. “Locally, Climate Pollution Reduction Grants are a critical investment and provide our state and region the capacity to incorporate climate planning that may be unique to us but has far-reaching benefits. In the Kansas City region, we’re fortunate to have our KC Regional Climate Action Plan which allows these planning funds from the IRA to be used to design our local implementation strategies. We’re proud that Rep. Davids understands this pivotal moment in time and supports our role in being part of the solution.”

“We are eager to advance this important work. The new Climate Pollution Reduction Grant will enable our region to refine and prioritize existing plans, position our region for major investments and create long-term benefits for everyone in the metropolitan area,” said David Warm, Executive Director, Mid-America Regional Council. “Thank you to Rep. Davids and our congressional partners for supporting this significant enhancement to our community capacity.”

Davids understands that action is needed now to protect the planet for future generations. That’s why she voted for the Inflation Reduction Act, which is already at work in Kansas. Along with lowering Kansans’ utility bills, Davids previously announced that Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country thanks to the law. Specifically, the Inflation Reduction Act:

Clean Energy Manufacturing: Accelerates U.S. manufacturing of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and critical minerals processing through targeted incentives.

Electric Buses: Replaces traditional heavy-duty vehicles for school and transit buses and garbage trucks with clean heavy-duty vehicles through a $1 billion federal investment.

Affordable Housing Energy Efficiency: Establishes a $1 billion grant program to make affordable housing more energy efficient.

Emissions Reductions: Includes the largest ever climate and energy investment that will reduce harmful emissions 40 percent by 2030.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grants-improve-research-university-kansas-medical-0,Davids Announces Federal Grants to Improve Research at the University of Kansas Medical Center,2023-08-23,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) more than $2,100,000 to boost research capabilities in Kansas’ Third Congressional District. The four projects being awarded will develop treatments for new cancer, blood disease, alcohol-induced disease, and oral disorders. KUMC is one of the top 36 public research universities in the country.

""We are lucky to have such a widely respected and advanced medical research center in our region, and I'm glad to help increase their research capabilities with these new federal resources,"" said Davids. ""The four studies being awarded will further contribute to medical research breakthroughs at the University of Kansas Medical Center, keeping our community and the entire country healthy.""

“This is a good opportunity to reflect upon how important it is to seek federal support to answer big questions in medicine,” said Dr. Matthias Salathe, Vice Chancellor for Research, University of Kansas Medical Center. “We truly appreciate the work of Representative Davids in supporting and promoting our researchers as they work to improve the health of Kansans and beyond.”

The federal grants announced today support four specific research projects at the University of Kansas Medical Center:

Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research - $601,893

These federal resources will be used to investigate the functions of certain cell processes that have significant relevance to cancer therapy. The results will be instrumental in developing and advancing therapeutic strategies.

Blood Diseases and Resources Research - $519,069

These federal resources will be used to determine the biological structure of Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare but potentially fatal blood disorder. The results will provide insight into the causes of TTP side effects and change how the disorder is treated in the future.

Alcohol Programs Research - $406,852

These federal resources will be used to determine how to reduce alcohol-induced pancreatitis, which has high morbidity and mortality and no specific available treatment. The results will help develop therapeutic strategies for treating alcoholic pancreatitis.

Oral Diseases and Disorders Research - $576,790

These federal resources will be used to investigate specific genetic mutations that lead to structural birth defects, including cleft palates, that can have significant, lifelong implications on eating and speaking. The results will help provide new therapeutic strategies for future use.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-davids-touts-federal-law-lower-insulin-costs-kansans,ICYMI: Davids Touts Federal Law to Lower Insulin Costs for Kansans,2023-08-18,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"This week, Representative Sharice Davids released a special report on how federal legislation is lowering the cost of insulin in Kansas’ Third District. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act’s $35 price cap, Kansans on Medicare are saving an average of $620 annually on insulin compared to 2020. People with private insurance and those who are uninsured are also seeing drastically lower costs after drug manufacturers lowered costs to match the popular federal policy.

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Rep. Sharice Davids’ new insulin report that shows drastic decreases in monthly insulin prices because of recent federal legislation.

The Kansas Reflector reported on Davids’ work to lower insulin costs:

“‘For too long,’ Davids said, ‘Kansans have been forced to pay extremely high prices for insulin while drug companies rake in massive profits.’

[…]

“That led the Democrat to support passage one year ago of the Inflation Reduction Act, which included provisions making health care more affordable for seniors. At the start of this year, the federal law capped the out-of-pocket cost of insulin for people enrolled in Medicare’s prescription drug plan at $35 for a one-month supply. It also imposed a requirement insulin manufacturers pay a rebate to Medicare if their prices grew faster than inflation.

“Under pressure from consumers eager for an affordable supply of insulin, the three drug companies dominating the U.S. market agreed to extend the $35 cap to people with private health insurance.

“Had the Inflation Reduction Act been in place in 2020, about 15,000 Kansas residents would have saved an estimated $650 annually on out-of-pocket costs.

[…]

“At the one-year mark, Davids said the law held great promise for growing the U.S. economy and dealing with climate change. She said health care pieces of the law succeeded in lowering the burden on thousands of Kansans and illustrated the need to push ahead with mandates capping the price for all insulin users.

“‘I voted for this historic legislation to lower costs for Kansas families,’ she said. ‘The law is lowering health care costs, growing the middle class with new clean energy and manufacturing jobs, and making the largest investment in the fight against climate change in our nation’s history.’”

Background:

Davids released her first insulin report in 2019, which found that Americans paid 5 times more for insulin than people living overseas. In her new report, Davids highlights how recent federal legislation is drastically lowering the cost of insulin for Kansans. Specifically, it finds:

Nationally, four million Medicare beneficiaries will together save $760 million a year thanks to the $35 insulin price cap.

Kansans on Medicare using insulin will save an average $620 annually on their insulin.

7,100 Kansans in the Third District who are insured through their employer and use insulin will see significant savings due to manufacturer price reductions.

530 Kansans in the Third District who are uninsured and use insulin will see significant savings due to manufacturer price reductions.

As shown in Davids’ updated insulin report, the Inflation Reduction Act is already lowering health care costs for Kansans. Along with the $35 insulin price cap for Medicare beneficiaries, the law:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-works-sharices-shift-us-69-highlights-bipartisan-infrastructure-law,"Davids Works “Sharice’s Shift” on US 69, Highlights Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Impact",2023-08-17,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OVERLAND PARK, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids worked a ""Sharice's Shift"" on US 69 to highlight the impact and implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law. Davids, who previously released a report on the state of road infrastructure in Kansas' Third District, shadowed the Storm Drainage crew and helped lay 60” concrete pipes. Davids previously helped break ground on the US 69 modernization project, which is funded in part by the bipartisan infrastructure law.

“Modernizing US 69 has been a priority since my predecessor’s predecessor, and the bipartisan infrastructure law is helping to finally get this project off the ground,” said Davids. “This is a great example of how federal investments in our local infrastructure are creating jobs and building safer, stronger, and smarter roadways across Kansas. It was great shadowing hard-working Kansans today and I appreciate the Kansas Department of Transportation’s work to implement federal resources efficiently and effectively.”

In Kansas, there are 1321 bridges and over 1,995 miles of highway in poor condition. Kansas is expected to receive approximately $2.8 billion over five years in bipartisan infrastructure law investment for highways and bridges, with $1.1 billion already being announced. Davids repeatedly advocated for the US 69 project as the bipartisan infrastructure law advanced through Congress, raising it with the President himself prior to its passage.

The bipartisan infrastructure law is helping fund the US 69 expansion project, which has been a priority in Johnson County for decades. Specifically, recent federal funding allowed KDOT to accelerate the US 69 / 167th St Interchange, which is projected to see 30,000 vehicles daily by 2050 — a 450% increase from current levels. The updated interchange will help support expected growth in southern Johnson County and create a clear path for emergency vehicles to reach the recently expanded AdventHealth South Overland Park Hospital.

“The progress we’re seeing with the 69Express project is the result of KDOT and its partners moving quickly to take advantage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding,” said Calvin Reed, Secretary of Transportation. “This first-of-its-kind project in Kansas will help manage congestion, improve safety and keep traffic moving well into the future.”

“The U.S. 69 Expansion Project is a welcome boost for the region's economy,” said Michael White, Executive Director, Kansas Contractors Association. “With construction already underway, these improvements will deliver increased safety, reliability and faster commute times for Kansas drivers and businesses.”

“The 69 Express project is just one of more than 48,000 road and bridge projects advanced across the nation thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,” said Dean Franks, Senior Vice President, American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA). “ARTBA commends Rep. Davids for her support of the law that will improve the lives of Kansans throughout her district.”

In all, more than $1.5 billion in federal bipartisan infrastructure law funding has been announced for Kansas, with over 115 specific projects identified for funding—from lead pipe replacement in Olathe to safety initiatives in KCK to long-overdue upgrades to K-68 in Miami County. Davids is the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the law.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-celebrates-historic-climate-legislation-thats-lowering-energy-costs,Davids Celebrates Historic Climate Legislation That’s Lowering Energy Costs,2023-08-16,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OVERLAND PARK, KS – Today, on the one-year anniversary of historic legislation to lower costs and fight climate change, Representative Sharice Davids visited a local business to highlight how Kansas businesses and families can receive discounts to update appliances or tax credits to install clean energy systems like solar panels. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which Davids was the only member of Kansas’ Congressional delegation to support, is the most significant climate legislation in U.S. history.

“I voted for this historic legislation to lower costs for families and businesses, and I saw today one example of how that has become reality in Kansas,” said Davids. “As we celebrate its one-year anniversary, this law is lowering health care costs, 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. I was proud to support it and will keep working to make life more affordable for Kansans.""

Many of the law’s responsible, pro-growth policies are already at work for Kansans right now, with even more progress on the way. It could save families an average of $500 per year on energy bills and is providing discounts to help families upgrade to more efficient appliances and vehicles. Davids previously announced that, thanks to the law, Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country. Specifically, the Inflation Reduction Act:

Clean Energy Manufacturing: Accelerates U.S. manufacturing of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and critical minerals processing through targeted incentives.

Electric Buses: Replaces traditional heavy-duty vehicles from school and transit buses and garbage trucks with clean heavy-duty vehicles through a $1 billion federal investment.

Affordable Housing Energy Efficiency: Establishes a $1 billion grant program to make affordable housing more energy efficient.

Emissions Reductions: Includes the largest ever climate and energy investment that will reduce harmful emissions 40 percent by 2030.

“After previously delaying the purchase of new solar panels due to too high installation costs, our building installed new solar panels last year thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act’s solar tax credit, which lowered those costs. Now, we’re expecting our energy bills to essentially be free within the next five years,” said Sonia Garapaty, Owner/CEO, FSC, Inc. “Adding solar has reduced our operating budget and lowered electricity costs. I’m glad we got to discuss these successes with Rep. Davids today.”

“After the IRA was signed into law, our company saw an immediate boost in interest from folks in the community to install solar,” said Ryan Evans, Principal, SunSmart Technologies. “Last year, we worked with FSC, Inc. to quantify how solar might be able to help them reach their net-zero goals with the help of Inflation Reduction Act incentives. They’re now below five years in their return-on-investment and their utility bills have dropped from $2,000 to $200 some months. Today, we saw the successes of this project and gave thanks to Rep. Davids for helping to promote clean and affordable sources of power.”

Today, Davids visited FSC, Inc., an engineering firm in Overland Park, which had new solar panels installed on their building, enabling the building owner to take advantage of certain IRA clean energy tax provisions. The tax credit lowered the cost of installation, which previously caused the building owner to decline solar panel installation one year prior. Because of the lower electricity costs, an analysis found that FSC, Inc. should expect a five-year return on investment, meaning their electricity will be free after five years. The analysis also found that yearly electrical production from the solar panels will meet or exceed energy use, making the building a net-zero energy facility.

Along with the climate and energy saving provisions, the Inflation Reduction Act includes policies to lower health care costs, reduce our country’s deficit, and support Kansas farmers. Specifically, it:

Health Care: Empowers Medicare to negotiate for lower prescription drug costs, caps insulin at $35 a month for Medicare beneficiaries, and extends tax breaks for people who purchase insurance on Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchanges through 2025, saving the average household in the Kansas Third District $980 a year.

Today, Davids released a report on lower prices of insulin in Kansas’ Third District.

Responsible Policy to Fight Inflation: Reduces the national deficit by at least $305 billion through 2031 via cost-saving programs and closing tax loopholes on billionaires and the 150 wealthiest corporations.

Agriculture and Farming: Supports climate-smart agriculture practices through more than $20 billion in federal investments, allocates federal resources for clean energy in rural communities, and invests in the domestic production of biofuels, including infrastructure needed for sustainable aviation fuel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-helps-us-sba-administrator-celebrate-70-years-supporting-kansas-small,Davids Helps U.S. SBA Administrator Celebrate 70 Years of Supporting Kansas Small Businesses,2023-08-15,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ABILENE, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined the U.S. Small Business Administrator Isabel Guzman at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library to celebrate the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 70th anniversary. President Eisenhower, who was raised in Abilene, Kansas, created the SBA in 1953 to support and protect the interests of small businesses. Davids has served on the U.S. House Small Business Committee since coming to Congress in 2019.

""President Eisenhower knew, as do I, that our small businesses are the heart of our communities, and we have an especially vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Kansas Third,” said Davids. “I will continue working with the Small Business Administration and my colleagues from both parties in Congress to give small business owners the tools needed support their families and employees and contribute to our local economies.”

""Standing alongside SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, dedicated Kansas elected officials, and local leaders, we proudly celebrated the 70th Anniversary,” said Mindy Brissey, SBA Regional Administrator for Region 7. “This event exemplifies our unwavering dedication to nurturing innovation, fostering economic resilience, and ensuring a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit across our communities.""

“Entrepreneurs across the state have launched successful companies with the assistance they received from SBA and the Department of Commerce,” said Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “The environment for small businesses to prosper in Kansas has never been stronger because of the coordinated federal and state support. I’d like to thank Rep. Davids for being such a strong voice for our state’s small business community in Congress.”

After a tour of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and lunch from the Hitching Post, Davids and Guzman joined Kansas Senator Rodger Marshall, Kansas Lieutenant Governor David Toland, and the Eisenhower family at a press conference celebrating the SBA’s 70th anniversary. Davids’ remarks focused on her U.S. House Small Business Committee work and the importance of small businesses to our country’s overall economy. Davids also touted recent federal legislation that is supporting Kansas small businesses, including the bipartisan infrastructure law, which is reducing small business shipping delays and creating good-paying jobs.

Davids believes entrepreneurship is baked into the DNA of the Kansas Third District and has worked to support local small businesses since coming to Congress. Most recently, she toured a local childcare facility to highlight how federal investments have supported the workforce and daily operations of local childcare small businesses. Davids also led bipartisan legislation with Rep. Mark Alford (R-MO-03) to help veteran entrepreneurs access SBA resources. She’s also focused on ensuring proper oversight of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and questioned Administrator Guzman on the SBA's efforts to support fraud victims in Johnson County.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-works-sharices-shift-local-restaurant-highlights-supply-chain-solutions,"Davids Works “Sharice’s Shift” at Local Restaurant, Highlights Supply Chain Solutions",2023-08-10,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KANSAS CITY, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids worked a ""Sharice's Shift"" at 1889 Pizza Napoletana to highlight her work to lower costs for Kansas small businesses and strengthen our domestic supply chain. As small businesses across the country have grappled with higher costs due to supply chain disruptions, Davids voted for a major, bipartisan law to invest in American manufacturing. Davids serves on the U.S. House Small Business Committee and was named a ""Champion of the Shippers"" by the Shippers Coalition for her leadership in ensuring a strong domestic supply chain.

""From higher prices to delays in necessary supplies, Kansans small businesses have felt the effects of recent supply chain backlogs. That's exactly why I've been squarely focused on shoring up our supply chain and lowering costs for Kansas businesses and families,"" said Davids. “I appreciated the opportunity today to learn more about the challenges facing local small businesses like 1889 Pizza Napoletana. We've got to keep lowering prices of gas and groceries, while also ensuring businesses in the Kansas Third have what they need to support their workforce and contribute to our economy.""

""Everyone endured difficulty and uncertainty during COVID-19, and, as a small, local business we experienced that acutely. We weathered wild increases and fluctuations in food and supply costs and had to find creative solutions to not only retain staff but our customer base,” said Jason and Kelli Kolich, owners, 1889 Pizza Napoletana. “Because of the diligent work of leaders like Rep. Davids, we received much needed support through various legislation. Slowly, but surely, some things have become more in line with our past forecasts and we're able to plan costs and menu offerings with more certainty today.""

During the ""Sharice's Shift,"" Davids assisted kitchen staff in making pizza dough and worked in the front of house to help prepare the restaurant for daily operations. She also spoke with Jason and Kelli Kolich, owners of 1889 Pizza Napoletana, on the challenges they’ve faced due to supply chain disruptions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant saw increased operation and ingredient costs. Davids shared what she is doing in Congress to lower those costs for all Kansas small businesses, including by voting for the CHIPS and Science Act, which is bringing jobs to Kansas, lowering costs for consumers, and supporting workforce development.

Davids’ additional work to strengthen supply chains include:

Holding multipleroundtables with Kansas business, manufacturing, and technology leaders on how recent legislation to improve supply chains will help boost their business' financial security.

Cosponsoring the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, a new law aimed at addressing supply chain snags and reducing dependence on goods produced outside of the United States.

Meeting with President Biden at the White House to urge him to pass a supply chain and economic package that invests in American manufacturing.

Voting to pass the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act to shore up the food and agriculture supply chain, assure fair competition in the meat and poultry sectors, and lower food and gasoline costs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-highlights-one-year-anniversary-law-reshore-manufacturing-jobs-tackle,"Davids Highlights One-Year Anniversary of Law to Reshore Manufacturing Jobs, Tackle Inflation",2023-08-09,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OVERLAND PARK, KS - Today, on the one-year anniversary of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act being signed into law, Representative Sharice Davids hosted a roundtable discussion with local elected officials, manufacturers, and researchers to discuss how semiconductor manufacturing investments are bringing jobs to Kansas, lowering costs for consumers, and supporting workforce development. The law, forwhich Davids served as a key negotiator, also includes support for small- and medium-sized manufacturers, a Davids-led priority to ensure funding is distributed beyond large corporations.

Semiconductors, or chips, are necessary components of many everyday items including cars, smartphones, and medical devices, but only 12 percent are currently manufactured domestically - down from 37 percent in the 1990s. This lack of domestic manufacturing of chips proved harmful during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing a chips shortage and raising prices on necessary goods.

“The chips shortages we saw over the past few years have demonstrated even further our need to make more chips here at home, ensuring Kansans aren’t bearing the financial burden of supply chain disruptions,” said Davids. “The bipartisan chips manufacturing legislation, for which I served as a key negotiator alongside Senator Jerry Moran, has prompted multiple private companies to invest in our local community. Kansas is ready to be a national leader in manufacturing, and this law will help us get there, all while strengthening our families’ financial future.”

“The CHIPS Act provides resources so the manufacturing ecosystem in Kansas, including Kansas Manufacturing Solutions, can assist our great manufacturers in boosting their manufacturing capacity, said Tiffany Stovall, Chief Executive Officer, Kansas Manufacturing Solutions. “We are so thankful to Congresswoman Davids for her great work in championing this legislation to provide such important support to the manufacturing community in Kansas.”

“The CHIPS Act is providing companies already in Kansas with a rare opportunity to scale their companies by multiples of 20 or more,” said Paul Hughes, Headquarters & Megaprojects, Kansas Department of Commerce. “Many are unaware that Kansas is home to the largest outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing company in the U.S., and that a measurably secure fabrication facility is being pursued in Coffey County. Kansas is ready. The high-tech, high-wage jobs created would be attractive enough to retain some of the 12,000 graduating students currently leaving our state each year.”

""The CHIPS and Science Act kickstarted an important recruitment pipeline for Overland Park and Kansas companies,"" said Curt Skoog, Mayor, Overland Park. ""Supporting our students' love of STEM topics and the growth of talent for our local businesses will be top of mind during this important discussion with regional and federal leaders.""

“The CHIPS and Science Act recognizes and begins to address the vulnerability the United States has found itself in after 30 years of offshoring large portions of the microelectronics manufacturing supply chain,” said Tony Caruso, Associate Vice Chancellor for Research, University of Missouri-Kansas City. “In Southeast Missouri, and the tri-state district of Oklahoma, Kansas and Missouri, our aim is to create standup facilities, know-how and workforce that will supply the materials needed to realize microelectronic manufacturing. It was Congresswoman Davids and others who had the foresight and bold approach to meet our economic and national security needs through the vertical supply chain for microelectronics.”

As part of her negotiations on this bill, Davids visited with local businesses about how the chips shortage affects their daily operations. She visited Cherub Medical Supplies, a Shawnee-based supplier of pediatric medical devices, that grappled with long delays. She also toured the local General Motors Fairfax Assembly & Stamping Plant, which idled for several months due to the shortage, forcing their 2,000 workers to stay home. Davids then hosted U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Kansas to highlight how federal legislation, including the CHIPS and Science Act, is helping to bring Panasonic to De Soto.

The CHIPS and Science Act is:

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

Creating 100,000 new, good-paying jobs nationwide – supporting local workforce development.

Reducing America’s dependence on foreign manufacturers – bringing critical semiconductor manufacturing back home.

Turbocharging American research and development – ensuring that the technologies of the future are made here at home.

Multiple companies recently announced new chips production facilities in Kansas and have applied to receive CHIPS and Science Act investments. As part of her effort to bring available federal resources home to Kansas, Davids encouraged the U.S. Department of Commerce to fully consider EMP Shield’s application. While initial federal allotments have not been released, the CHIPS and Science Act has already boosted investments in local communities, including:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-local-veterans-celebrate-one-year-anniversary-historic-expansion,"Davids, Local Veterans Celebrate One-Year Anniversary of Historic Expansion of Veterans Health Care",2023-08-08,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LENEXA, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids celebrated the one-year anniversary of the bipartisan Honoring our PACT Act, a Davids-supported law that expands Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care eligibility to five million American veterans who were exposed to toxic airborne hazards while deployed. Davids was joined by local veterans and VA health care professionals for a conversation on the PACT Act’s impact in Kansas and how to encourage veterans to continue applying for benefits.

Davids also released a report with new findings on how the PACT Act has expanded health care eligibility for Kansas veterans. Highlights include:

1,025 veterans in Kansas’ Third District are receiving expanded health care benefits thanks to the PACT Act.

408,581 PACT Act claims have been completed, meaning an estimated 4.6 million more veterans are eligible for benefits but have not applied for or received coverage.

Kansas City VA (KCVA) has provided 26,385 total toxic exposure screenings, with 44 percent finding at least one potential toxic exposure.

“Kansas veterans, including those in my own family, have made countless sacrifices to serve our nation, and the least we can do is ensure they have the necessary care through VA when they get home,” said Davids. “The bipartisan PACT Act is the most extensive expansion of veterans' benefits ever and I was proud to work together with Republicans and Democrats to get it across the finish line. Now that we’ve reached the one-year mark, we’re celebrating the impact the law has had on our community while also encouraging veterans to continue applying for these life-saving benefits.”

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“I'm very grateful that the House and the Senate were able to come together to support this monumental legislation that is now law,” said Rick McKenna, Commander, Veterans of Foreign (VFW) Post 7397, Lenexa. “Representatives from both sides of the aisle like Ms. Davids realized that veterans issues are not a Democrat or Republican issue, it's an American issue. The passage of the PACT Act opened the door to thousands of veterans like me who were previously denied benefits for many years are now able to receive care and benefits they earned long ago. I say, ‘Thank You’ for all those that made this possible.”

“In the year since President Biden signed the PACT Act into law, VA Medical Centers throughout Kansas and Missouri have screened over 137,000 Veterans for service-connected exposure to burn pits and airborne hazards, pesticides, oil well fires, Agent Orange, radiation, contaminated water, and other toxic substances,” said Dr. Ahmad Batrash, Chief of Staff for Kansas City VA (KCVA). “Based on their responses to the screening, approximately 61,000 of those Veterans have been encouraged to file a related claim with VA for potential benefits under the PACT Act. Kansas City VA Medical Center is very appreciative of the ongoing support from Representative Davids in promoting our PACT Act outreach events and in continuing to support us as we work to ensure all eligible Veterans in Kansas’ Third Congressional District receive the care they earned and deserve.”

“Wounded Warrior Project was proud to partner with other Veteran Service Organizations to advocate and champion the PACT ACT,” said Brent Whitten, local veteran involved with Wounded Warriors Project and Deputy Director of Operations for Kansas Department of Children and Families. “We are grateful for Representative Davids' support of the Veteran/Warrior Community and truly making a difference in the lives of others.”

Today, Davids, whose mother served in the Army for 20 years, was joined by local representatives from the KCVA, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Wounded Warriors Project, Navy League of the United States, and Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs. Last year, after appearing with Kansas City-area veterans and veterans’ advocate Jon Stewart to urge passage of the PACT Act, Davids joined local veterans at the Lenexa VFW to celebrate this critical legislation being signed into law.

Throughout history, the United States military deployed burn pits in bases around the world to dispose of garbage, plastics, and medical waste. These pits released toxic emissions, and those exposed for prolonged periods of time could develop cancers, asthma, and other life-threatening respiratory illnesses. While data suggests five million military personnel may have been exposed after September 11, 2001, many of those veterans had to prove to VA that their illness is connected to their service and were subsequently turned down treatment. The Honoring our PACT Act, which was signed into law on August 10, 2022, removes that burden and expands coverage for toxic-exposed veterans. Along with authorizing $40 million in federal funding to expand outpatient services at the Kansas City VA Hospital, it:

Expands VA health care eligibility to Post-9/11 combat veterans, which includes more than 5 million toxic-exposed veterans;

Creates a framework for the establishment of future presumptions of service connection related to toxic exposure;

Adds 23 burn pit and toxic exposure-related conditions to VA’s list of service presumptions, including hypertension;

Expands presumptions related to Agent Orange exposure;

Strengthens federal research on toxic exposure;

Improves the VA’s resources and training for toxic-exposed veterans; and

Sets the VA and veterans up for success by investing in VA claims processing, the VA’s workforce, and VA health care facilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-highlights-approved-funding-request-updated-drinking-water,Davids Highlights Approved Funding Request for Updated Drinking Water Infrastructure in Olathe,2023-08-02,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids toured the Renner Pump Station in Olathe to highlight her recently approved federal funding request. This project, which is one of 15 Davids-sponsored requests, would replace the 35-year-old generator at the pump station, ensuring access to clean drinking water in emergency situations. Davids was joined by Olathe Mayor John Bacon and City Administrator Tim Danneberg.

""From the water in our tap to the rain in our gutters, water infrastructure touches many parts of our lives,"" said Davids. ""The current generator at the pump station does not meet the expected safety requirements necessary to serve the entire Olathe community. I'm glad to work with our local officials to bring federal funds home and make our communities safer, more efficient, and better equipped to keep up with our growing community.""

“The City of Olathe is proud to deliver exceptional city services to our residents, and the reliability and safety of those services are paramount,” said John Bacon, Mayor, City of Olathe. “Safe water is one of our community’s most basic needs, and these improvements are necessary to ensure it remains accessible at all times, even during an emergency. This project allows us to remain resilient and to continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our residents. Thank you to Congresswoman Davids for her support of this priority.”

“Olathe is incredibly fortunate to have the strong support of our Congressional delegation,” said Tim Danneberg, City Administrator, City of Olathe. “We applaud Congresswoman Davids’ continued efforts to support Olathe and the Third District by helping secure important federal funds benefiting our community.”

The Renner Pump Station transports water from the Renner Tower to homes, businesses, and schools in Olathe. Its power is currently provided by a diesel generator that was installed in 1984, 35 years ago. The generator, which is required to provide reliable standby power during extreme weather events, is at the end of its service life and spare parts are no longer available for repairs. Davids’ funding request would help replace the generator, ensuring access to clean drinking water for all Olathe residents.

More information on the City of Olathe's funding request can be found here. Each of the 15 Davids-requested projects were submitted in conjunction with local officials and selected for their potential to improve health and safety in the community, tackle climate change, and bring economic opportunity to the Third District. Appropriations requests are subject to strict transparency and accountability rules, which can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-discusses-fentanyl-epidemic-local-education-professionals,Davids Discusses Fentanyl Epidemic with Local Education Professionals,2023-08-01,2023,2023-08,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined local superintendents, school resource officers, and law enforcement officials for her third summit regarding the growing threat of fentanyl, the number one cause of overdose deaths in the United States. The group discussed the impact the fentanyl crisis has on students and how Davids can better advocate in Congress for Kansas youth. Davids previously supported legislation allowing schools to use leftover COVID-19 relief dollars to purchase naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.

Davids’ first summit convened local, state, and federal law enforcement officials to discuss long-term solutions to combatting the fentanyl crisis. At her second summit, she was joined by health care workers to discuss the challenges faced when caring for fentanyl-related overdose patients.

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Rep. Sharice Davids speaks with local education leaders and law enforcement on combatting the fentanyl crisis.

“In our state and around the country, the fentanyl crisis has become a public health emergency, with our youth being hit the hardest because they often don’t know the devastating impacts until it’s too late,” said Davids. “Like my previous two summits with law enforcement and health care professionals, I am committed to working with the educational leaders I met with today to fight this crisis head-on, because one death is one too many. With increased collaboration from all corners of our community, we can help save lives.”

“We understand and acknowledge the serious threat of fentanyl in our community because our schools are a reflection of the community,” said Dr. Cory Gibson, Superintendent of Schools, USD 232. “Our school administrators and mental health professionals are working to educate our youth and their families to help raise awareness of the hidden dangers. Having elected officials take up the banner of drawing attention to what has become a national crisis will only further efforts to protect lives.”

“We recognize the dangers that fentanyl is presenting in our community and therefore have committed to an increased awareness, education, and prevention in Olathe Public Schools,” said Matt Johnson, Olathe Director of Activities and Athletics.

“Have the conversation now with your children, do it before it’s too late,” said Dan Neill, Director, Midwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

“Fentanyl in the drug supply poses an especially dangerous risk for young people experimenting with drug use,” said Casey Johnson, Harm Reduction Specialist, FirstCallKC. “Because fentanyl in small doses can be lethal and it’s often undetectable, the threshold for experimentation is incredibly shallow leaving young people especially vulnerable to fatal overdose. First Call knows every overdose death is preventable. With tools and practices ranging from prevention to access to overdose reversal medication and fentanyl test strips, we can inform our youth better than ever and make meaningful strides in keeping them safe, healthy, and alive.”

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Rep. Sharice Davids holding a box of Narcan, a common naloxone nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses.

Summit attendees included administration and school resource officers from the Shawnee Mission; Kansas City, Kansas; Olathe; and De Soto School Districts. Representatives from FirstCallKC, a local organization working to reduce the impact of alcohol, drugs, and addiction in the Kansas City area, and the Midwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) also participated in the conversation.

Last year, Davids met with Libby Davis, a Johnson County resident, whose son passed away after taking a counterfeit pill that was unknowingly laced with fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine and is increasingly found in fake prescription pills such as Vicodin, OxyContin, or hydrocodone. Following their meeting, Davids co-sponsored and helped pass legislation through the House that creates a public awareness campaign about synthetic opioids through the Department of Health and Human Services.

Davids, a member of the bipartisan Fentanyl Prevention Caucus, has been a vocal advocate around fentanyl and opioid death prevention and has taken several legislative actions based on the specific needs of the Kansas Third District, including:

Hosting a Facebook Live conversation with Blue Valley School District and Johnson County Mental Health Center about opioid use in schools.

Joining a bipartisan group of lawmakers to request funding for new handheld mass spectrometry trace level chemical detection devices at domestic ports.

Urging the FDA to take up expert recommendations and make Narcan, a common naloxone nasal spray, available without a prescription—which they did earlier this year.

Voting to permanently place all fentanyl-related substances into a schedule I class, labeling the drug with a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical value.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-joins-overland-park-police-department-tour-ride-along-local-officer,"Davids Joins Overland Park Police Department for Tour, Ride-Along with Local Officer",2023-07-31,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids spent the morning with the Overland Park Police Department (OPPD), where she joined their weekly staff meeting and went on a ride-along with a local law enforcement officer. Davids’ visit to highlight her support for local law enforcement follows last month’s visit to the Johnson County Regional Police Academy where she participated in trainings.

“After protecting our country in the Army, my mom continued her service as a law enforcement officer in Kansas,” said Davids. “Since coming to Congress, it’s been my mission to boost support for law enforcement departments in Kansas’ Third District, so folks can feel safe and protected in our community. I want to thank Chief Donchez and all the officers I spoke with today for their hard work and dedication. I look forward to continuing to work alongside them in the future.”

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Rep. Sharice Davids visits the OPPD with Chief Frank Donchez and Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog.

""Trust and transparency between law enforcement, elected officials and the community we both serve is essential for community policing and public safety,"" said Police Chief Frank Donchez, Overland Park.

“Today we hosted Representative Davids for a discussion on how the Overland Park Police Department serves the community,” Mayor Curt Skoog, Overland Park. “I believe we impressed her with our innovative programs that enable us to better serve our officers and all of Overland Park.”

During today’s visit, Davids joined OPPD officers for their weekly staff meeting, where she spoke about her work to support Kanas law enforcement officers. After a tour of the Justice Center, Davids joined Officer Tara Stevens, a member of the Honor Guard and Hostage Negotiation Team who has been at the OPPD for over 10 years, for a ride-along of her patrol district within the Parkway Division (south of 435). During the ride-along, Davids and Officer Stevens answered radio calls and spoke about the challenges facing law enforcement officers.

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Rep. Sharice Davids speaks at the OPPD’s weekly staff meeting.

Davids previously announced several federal actions to support the OPPD. She secured federal support to implement Crisis Intervention Teams, which identifies mental and behavioral health resources for those in crisis and ensures officer and community safety. Davids also announced a federal grant to improve the delivery of and access to mental health and wellness services for OPPD officers. Programming includes training and technical assistance, demonstration projects, suicide prevention programs, and peer mentoring practices for mental health and wellness. Most recently, she called on local law enforcement to apply for federal dollars to increase public safety resources.

This past May, during National Police Week, Davids took official action to boost resources for local law enforcement departments, reduce gun violence in Kansas, and support individual officers. The package of eight bills includes bipartisan legislation to improve care for officers coping with job-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eliminate backlogs of untested DNA samples, and crack down and schedule xylazine, the highly dangerous sedative causing fatal overdoses nationwide. It also strengthens background check requirements for those handling firearms.

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Rep. Sharice Davids chats with an OPPD Public Information Officer, John Lacy.

Since being sworn in, Davids has worked to provide Kansas law enforcement officers with the tools needed to keep communities safe. She secured funding for the Olathe Police Department’s Mobile Command Unit and announced federal resources to hire additional law enforcement in Wyandotte County. She previously voted for historic, bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to keep Kansans safe and a bill giving officers access to disability benefits for job-related PTSD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/watch-davids-highlights-needed-rural-broadband-improvements-during-small,WATCH: Davids Highlights Needed Rural Broadband Improvements During Small Business Hearing with Kansas Farmer,2023-07-27,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, during a U.S. House Small Business Committee hearing, Representative Sharice Davids discussed the importance of accessing high-speed internet across all Kansas communities, including in rural areas. University of Kansas researchers recently found that up to 1 million Kansans lack access to high-speed broadband, with rural areas receiving the slowest download speeds. Matt Splitter, owner of Splitter Farms in Sterling, Kansas, testified during the hearing on the broadband challenges impacting his family farm.

“I serve on both the Small Business Committee and the House Agriculture Committee. As you can imagine, there’s a lot of overlap in the two committees, especially recognizing that in Kansas we have a lot of family farms,” Davids said. “We have to absolutely be thinking about this holistically - everything from supporting our rural communities through passing the Farm Bill to addressing how the operation of a modern farm happens and the technologies that are being used. We’ve seen tons of progress over the past few years to ensuring that all Kansans have access to broadband, but certainly there is still a lot more work to do.”

“Technology is a huge part of our operation. As we’ve been sitting here today, my phone has been going crazy because we’re 110 degrees and all my equipment is telling me it’s too hot. So, we’re communicating from the farm in central Kansas to my phone here in DC today,” said Matt Splitter, Owner, Splitter Farms. “We have one person that we can access internet from, and it’s not even high-speed…It is tremendously important that we have access to [broadband], and not just access, reliable access.”

WATCH: Davids and Kansas farmer Matt Splitter speak on the need for improved access to high-speed internet in rural Kansas

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In addition to the Small Business Committee, Davids also sits on the House Agriculture and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees where she has worked to improve access to broadband across Kansas. Previously, Davids led bipartisan legislation to help connect families and businesses in rural Kansas to the critical internet services and information they need. She has also announcedmultiple bipartisan infrastructure law investments to improve access to high-speed internet, build out Kansas’ broadband infrastructure, and make high-speed internet more affordable.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/kansas-third-district-leads-nation-clean-energy-job-creation,Kansas’ Third District Leads Nation in Clean Energy Job Creation,2023-07-26,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced Kansas’ Third Congressional District has created more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country. Thanks to Davids-supported legislation to lower costs and boost climate-friendly manufacturing, private companies have announced they’ll create over 20,000 jobs in Kansas’ Third District, almost doubling that of the district ranking second. Davids is the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which celebrates its one-year anniversary this coming August.

“No matter where they live or their educational background, all Kansans deserve a good-paying job to support their families and contribute to our local economy,” said Davids. “I’m proud to have supported both record clean energy and manufacturing job growth in Kansas and environmental protections for future generations. I’m focused on building upon these successes and making life easier for hard-working Kansans by lowering the costs of gas, groceries, and medicine.”

“We applaud Representative Davids’ tireless leadership in the passage and now the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act, the biggest investment our country has ever made in climate, clean energy, and environmental justice,” said Tiernan Sittenfeld, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, League of Conservation Voters. “As this record-breaking heat rages on, it’s never been more important or urgent that we double down on this progress. It’s testament to Representative Davids that her district now leads in the creation of more clean energy jobs than any other congressional district in the country.”

WATCH: Davids speaks on record clean energy job creation as one-year anniversary of historic federal legislation nears

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According to a report released today analyzing private sector manufacturing announcements in the last year, 20,500 new clean energy jobs for electricians, mechanics, construction workers, and technicians have been announced in Kansas’ Third Congressional District. A large majority of these jobs stem from Panasonic Energy’s $4 billion investment in De Soto. Panasonic, which can take advantage of certain IRA provisions to boost clean energy manufacturing, is estimated to deliver a $2.5 billion annual economic benefit to Kansas. Researchers have found that landing a clean energy job can result in an eight to 19 percent income increase, and 45 percent of all workers in clean energy production do not have a college degree.

Additional key findings in the report include:

Kansas

Kansas ranks 14th in total investment from private companies.

Along with the 20,500 jobs for Kansas’ Third District, Kansas’ Second District has gained 100 clean energy jobs in the last year.

National

170,256 clean energy jobs have been announced nationally in the past year.

There are 270 new clean energy projects nationwide, totaling $274.5 billion in investments for local communities.

American companies restored almost 350,000 manufacturing jobs in 2022 — a 25 percent increase from 2021.

The IRA will create more than 9 million clean energy and climate-related jobs over the next decade.

In keeping with her commitment to lower costs for Kansas families and businesses, Davids voted to pass the IRA in August 2022. This law is not only creating the clean energy jobs celebrated today, but also lowering the national deficit and health care costs by capping insulin prices at $35 a month for Medicare beneficiaries and giving Medicare the power to negotiating directly for lower prescription drug costs. As the largest U.S. investment in climate and clean energy in U.S. history, the IRA includes specific climate-friendly provisions such as:

Clean Energy Manufacturing: Accelerates U.S. manufacturing of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and critical minerals processing through targeted incentives.

Electric Buses: Replaces traditional heavy-duty vehicles from school and transit buses and garbage trucks with clean heavy-duty vehicles through a $1 billion federal investment.

Affordable Housing Energy Efficiency: Establishes a $1 billion grant program to make affordable housing more energy efficient and institutes 10 years of consumer tax credits, making heat pumps, rooftop solar, electric HVAC and water heaters more affordable.

Short-Term Gas Price Fix: Requires three offshore oil and gas lease sales by the end of 2023, boosting American energy production in the short term to lower gas prices and reduce reliance on foreign countries.

Emissions Reductions: Includes the largest ever climate and energy investment that will reduce harmful emissions 40 percent by 2030.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-davids-highlights-bipartisan-accomplishments-yesterdays-faa,ICYMI: Davids Highlights Bipartisan Accomplishments in Yesterday’s FAA Reauthorization,2023-07-21,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids penned a guest column in the Kansas City Star highlighting how the bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization will improve customer protections and accessibility while flying, increase America’s aviation safety standards, and strengthen domestic aviation workforce and manufacturing. The House-passed legislation included two Davids-sponsored amendments to improve safety outcomes for aviation companies like Garmin and modernize control tower/pilot communications – both of which passed with bipartisan support.

Read Davids’ column in the Kansas City Star:

“Republicans and Democrats in the House came together, without theatrics, to pass bipartisan legislation that reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The bill contains provisions that will have a huge impact on our flying experience and the economy in Kansas City and across the country.

[…]

“Yesterday’s reauthorization includes consumer protections that require airlines to reimburse passengers for unexpected meal and hotel costs and to establish policies allowing passengers to sit next to their young children. It also contains improved safety standards for air travel to help decrease airport near-collisions, review airplane emergency medical kits and evacuation procedures, and improve cabin air quality.

“Moreover, this bipartisan reauthorization uplifts our local aviation workforce and boosts domestic manufacturing, especially important in Kansas where we have a legacy of aviation manufacturing.

[…]

“Of course, there are parts of the bill I disagree with — that’s the nature of legislating in a bipartisan way. I introduced an amendment that would protect ticket transparency standards so folks know exactly what they are paying for when purchasing an airline ticket and how much it will cost. I also spoke out against provisions to change pilot age requirements…

[…]

“I’m incredibly proud to have worked alongside Republicans and Democrats to support Kansas' rich heritage of aviation manufacturing and to ensure airline passengers are both safe and treated fairly. I hope bipartisan support continues as the Senate considers its version of the FAA reauthorization and I look forward to working on the final compromise.”

Background:

Davids, a member of the U.S House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, previously spoke with airline professionals about how the overall flying experience, including safety and transparency of those hidden fees, could be improved. She also called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg to provide answers for January’s aviation safety notification system meltdown and to hold airlines accountable for recent mass cancellations.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-votes-bipartisan-faa-reauthorization-improve-consumer-protections,"Davids Votes for Bipartisan FAA Reauthorization to Improve Consumer Protections, Safety for Air Travelers",2023-07-20,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today,Representative Sharice Davids voted for bipartisan legislation to improve customer protections and accessibility while flying, increase America’s aviation safety standards, and strengthen domestic aviation workforce and manufacturing. Included in today’s bill to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was two Davids-sponsored amendments to improve safety outcomes for aviation companies like Garmin and modernize control tower/pilot communications – both of which passed with bipartisan support.

“Our entire economy relies heavily on reliable air travel of people and goods to keep our communities moving and maintain a strong domestic supply chain,” said Davids. “The bill we passed today includes many priorities I’ve pushed for, including more protections for consumers, updated safety regulations, and incentives to boost domestic aviation manufacturing and workforce. While I don’t agree with everything included, like raising the pilot retirement age, I hope the bipartisan support continues as the Senate considers its version of the bill and I look forward to working with Republicans and Democrats on the final compromise.”

The bipartisan Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, which Davids voted for today,will fund the FAA for the next five years and provide new guidance and standards for the agency. Specifically, it:

Improves airline customer protections and accessibility by directing the Department of Transportation (DOT) to:

Develop policies for airlines to reimburse passengers for meal and hotel costs incurred when a flight is cancelled;

Require airlines to create plans to prevent and limit the impact of mass flight cancelations;

Establish policies allowing passengers to sit next to their young child.

Increases America’s aviation safety standards by:

Decreasing the risk of airport near-collisions;

Reviewing airplane passenger emergency medical kits and evacuation procedures;

Requiring the FAA to update security measures to help prevent assaults against flight crews and passengers.

Strengthens U.S. aviation workforce and manufacturing by:

Hiring more air traffic controller agents;

Boosting American manufacturing through limiting Chinese-owned companies from accessing federal dollars.

Davids, who has served on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee since being elected to Congress, has prioritized consumer protections and safety throughout the FAA reauthorization process. Last week, Davids introduced an amendment to the FAA reauthorization package to ensure transparency of airline fees for consumers throughout the ticketing process.

During a March committee hearing, Davids spoke with airline professionals about how the overall flying experience, including safety and transparency of those hidden fees, could be improved. She also called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Buttigieg to provide answers for January’s aviation safety notification system meltdown and to hold airlines accountable for recent mass cancellations.

Today’s FAA reauthorization includes additional priorities Davids has pushed for in the past, including advanced air mobility (AAM) regulations. Davids’ legislation to promote AAM, an emerging sector of the aviation industry that creates an entirely new mode of transportation using specialized vehicles to transport people and cargo, was signed into law by President Biden last year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-bipartisan-bill-support-veteran-entrepreneurs-advances-out-committee,Davids’ Bipartisan Bill to Support Veteran Entrepreneurs Advances Out of Committee,2023-07-18,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the U.S. House Small Business Committee unanimously approved Representative Sharice Davids’ bipartisan legislation to help veteran small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed. Alongside Representative Mark Alford (R-MO-03), Davids introduced the SERV Act to study the barriers veterans face when starting a business and improve the availability of existing veteran-focused small business programs for access to resources, capital, and credit. The bill now heads for a vote on the House floor, where it passed in 2019 with broad bipartisan support.

“As the daughter of a veteran, I have seen firsthand the challenges our veterans face after exiting the service. Rep. Alford and I introduced the SERV Act to help eliminate those barriers, especially for folks looking to start their own business and take care of their family,” said Davids. “I am glad my Republican and Democrat colleagues on the Small Business Committee recognize the importance of lifting up our veteran entrepreneurs and am hopeful for further bipartisan support when the bill comes up for a vote on the House floor.”

“Earlier today, I was proud to work with my colleagues on the Small Business Committee to pass the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans (SERV) Act out of committee with overwhelming bipartisan support,” said Representative Mark Alford (MO-03). “The steps taken in the SERV Act will move us closer to sparking veteran entrepreneurship. Congresswoman Davids and I will not stop until this legislation is signed into law.”

WATCH: Davids speaks on her SERV Act during today’s U.S. House Small Business Committee Markup

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“Entrepreneurship and small businesses embody the American Dream that our nation’s veterans and reservists have fought hard to preserve,"" said Vincent J. Troiola, National Commander, American Legion. ""Those who have served our nation honorably should have access to all resources necessary to succeed in their post-service careers. The American Legion applauds Rep. Sharice Davids and Rep. Mark Alford for leading the way toward more veterans and reservists’ achieving their entrepreneurial dreams by identifying opportunities and promoting resources with the Small Business Administration through H.R. 4480, the SERV Act.”

While military experience provides transferable entrepreneurial training and skills, the number of veterans starting their own business has decreased drastically over the last few decades. Today, only 4.5 percent of the more than 3.6 million veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 have launched a company. In contrast, the number of World War II and Korean War veterans who went on to operate a business was 50 and 40 percent, respectively. Reasons for this decline include challenges accessing credit, transitioning to civilian life, and overcoming stigmas around physical disabilities and post-traumatic stress disorder.

To improve accessibility to resources available for veteran small business owners, the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act, or SERV Act:

Commissions a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the ability of veteran and reservist small business owners to access credit.

This includes a new analysis on common sources of credit and how deployment and other military responsibilities affect veterans' and reservists' credit.

Requires the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to develop an action plan for outreach and promotion of the many programs available to veterans looking to transition into the business world.

Requires the task force to report annually to Congress on its appointments and outline its plan for outreach on the many programs available to veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, and their spouses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-vote-against-extreme-partisan-plan-restrict-access-health,"Davids Statement on Vote Against Extreme, Partisan Plan to Restrict Access to Health Care for Military",2023-07-14,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids voted against an extreme, partisan plan that would restrict access to reproductive health care for service members. Since coming to Congress, Davids has voted to support service members and their families through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) every year, all in a bipartisan fashion. The NDAA has passed Congress for more than 60 years with overwhelming bipartisan support, and this year’s package was approved by the House Armed Services Committee on a bipartisan basis. However, today’s version of the bill championed by House leadership included a laundry list of extremists’ demands.

“Today, I voted against a plan that would put partisan politics and a far-right, anti-abortion agenda above our national security and the well-being of our service members,” said Davids. “It is absolutely outrageous that extremists are being allowed to hold support for our military hostage, and I plan to continue working to find common-sense, bipartisan solutions that help our service members and keep our country safe.”

Davids, whose mother served in the army for 20 years, will continue pushing for common-sense, bipartisan policies that benefit service members, their families, and communities across the country. As conversations around the NDAA package continue, Davids’ priorities include:

Improved access to health care, including reproductive health care, mental and behavioral health needs, and military suicide prevention;

Increased pay and benefits for service members, which would help assist with critical recruitment and retention incentives;

Greater efforts to combat the ongoing challenges posed by China, Russia, and violent extremist organizations that present national security threats to America and our allies;

Additional support for military spouses and families, including the expansion of child care and housing programs.

The NDAA is passed by Congress annually to update defense policies and determine how military funding is spent by the U.S. Department of Defense. After today’s House vote, the Senate will consider their version of the NDAA in the coming weeks. The House and Senate will likely prioritize a combination of the two bills, considered through a bipartisan, bicameral agreement process, to pass in both chambers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grants-improve-research-university-kansas-medical,Davids Announces Federal Grants to Improve Research at the University of Kansas Medical Center,2023-07-13,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) with more than $1,350,000 to boost research capabilities in Kansas’ Third Congressional District. The three projects being awarded work to decrease deaths due to lung disease, investigate the causes of oral birth defects, and uncover solutions to limit the transmission of Lyme disease. KUMC is one of the top 36 public research universities in the country.

""We are lucky to have such a widely respected and advanced medical research center in our region, and I'm glad to help increase their research capabilities with these new federal resources,"" said Davids. ""The three studies being awarded will further contribute to medical research breakthroughs at the University of Kansas Medical Center, keeping our community and the entire country healthy.""

“Government funding of science is critically important to discoveries, both now and in the future,” said Matthias Salathe, M.D., Vice Chancellor for Research, University of Kansas Medical Center. “We appreciate Congresswoman Davids’ support as researchers across KU Medical Center seek to answer questions about disease and genetic conditions—in this case, Lyme disease, chronic lung disease and cleft palate.”

The federal grants announced today support three specific research projects at the University of Kansas Medical Center:

Lung Diseases Research - $894,333

The federal resources will be used to identify structure and function abnormalities in the lung that lead to lung disease, which is a leading cause of disability and death often due to late detection.

Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation Research - $232,500

The federal resources will be used to enhance the public’s knowledge of Lyme disease transmissions to improve strategies for diagnosing, preventing, and treating Lyme disease and other similar infections of global impact.

Oral Diseases and Disorders Research - $232,500

The federal resources will be used to investigate specific genetic mutations that lead to structural birth defects, including cleft palates, that can have significant, lifelong implications on eating and speaking.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-introduces-amendment-faa-reauthorization-improve-fee-transparency,"Davids Introduces Amendment in FAA Reauthorization to Improve Fee Transparency, Consumer Protections for Air Travel",2023-07-12,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, as the House prepares to consider the major Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization package, Representative Sharice Davids introduced an amendment to improve consumer protections for Kansans traveling by air. The amendment would require the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure transparency of airline fees for consumers throughout the ticketing process.

“When booking a flight, air travelers deserve to know exactly what they’re paying for and how much it will cost,” said Davids. “My amendment would require the Department of Transportation to ensure airlines are abiding by the transparency standards the American public has come to expect. As we move forward in considering the FAA reauthorization package on the House floor, I’ll continue to keep consumer protection and safety as a top priority.”

Davids' amendment, which requires the DOT to collect and report data, on behalf of consumers, on airlines’ commitment to fee transparency though their Airline Customer Service Dashboard, will be considered as the House votes on the FAA reauthorization in the coming weeks. In June, the reauthorization package, which would reauthorize the FAA and aviation safety and infrastructure programs for the next five years, passed out of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee with broad bipartisan support. The bill contains several priorities for Davids. Specifically, it:

Improves airline customer protections and accessibility by directing the DOT to require airlines to develop policies to reimburse passengers for unexpected meal and hotel costs, create plans to limit the impact of mass flight cancelations, and establish policies allowing passengers to sit next to their young child.

Increases America’s aviation safety standards by decreasing the risk of airport collisions, reviewing airplane passenger emergency medical kits and evacuation procedures, and requiring the FAA to update security measures to help prevent assaults against flight crews and passengers.

Strengthens U.S. aviation workforce and manufacturing by promoting the hiring of more air traffic controller agents and limiting Chinese-owned companies from accessing federal dollars.

The bill will soon be considered on the House floor for debate and a vote. The Senate has released a separate, bipartisan legislative planto reauthorize the FAA. The House and Senate will likely prioritize a combination of the two bills that will pass in both chambers before the 2018 FAA reauthorization expires on September 30, 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-ks-03-alford-mo-04-introduce-bipartisan-bill-support-veteran,"Davids (KS-03), Alford (MO-04) Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Veteran Entrepreneurs",2023-07-10,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Mark Alford (R-MO-04) reintroduced the SERV Act, bipartisan legislation to help veteran small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed by studying the barriers faced when starting a business. The bill also commissions a report on the outreach and promotion of existing veteran-focused small business programs to ensure veterans can access all available resources, capital, and credit. Davids, whose mother served in the U.S. Army for 20 years, originally introduced the legislation in 2019, when it passed the House with broad bipartisan support.

“Because of their sense of service and dedication, there are few people better situated to become entrepreneurs than our nation’s veterans, but they face far too many obstacles when starting their business,” said Davids. “We must do a better job setting Kansas City area veterans up for success, and that’s why I’m honored to lead the SERV Act alongside Representative Alford. Our bill is a crucial step in identifying solutions so veterans can thrive, take care of their families, and contribute to our local economy.""

“As members of Congress, we have the duty to protect and support our nation’s veterans,” said Representative Mark Alford (MO-04). “Earlier this year, it was my distinct pleasure to have Taylor Burks at the Small Business Committee hearing. We heard from him how the Committee and Small Business Administration can better serve those who served this nation. This bill is our first step in doing that. It is a win for our districts, a win for veterans, and a win for our country. I am proud to co-lead the SERV Act with my colleague Rep. Davids who represents our neighboring district to promote veteran entrepreneurship.”

While military experience provides transferable entrepreneurial training and skills, the number of veterans starting their own business has decreased drastically over the last few decades. Today, only 4.5 percent of the more than 3.6 million veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 have launched a company. In contrast, the number of World War II and Korean War veterans who went on to operate a business was 50 and 40 percent, respectively. Reasons for this decline include challenges accessing credit, transitioning to civilian life, and overcoming stigmas around physical disabilities and post-traumatic stress disorder.

To improve accessibility to resources available for veteran small business owners, the Successful Entrepreneurship for Reservists and Veterans Act, or SERV Act:

Commissions a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the ability of veteran and reservist small business owners to access credit.

This includes a new analysis on common sources of credit and how deployment and other military responsibilities affect veterans' and reservists' credit.

Requires the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to develop an action plan for outreach and promotion of the many programs available to veterans looking to transition into the business world.

Requires the task force to report annually to Congress on its appointments and outline its plan for outreach on the many programs available to veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, and their spouses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-us-interior-secretary-haaland-highlight-federal-efforts-clean-toxic,"Davids, U.S. Interior Secretary Haaland Highlight Federal Efforts to Clean Up Toxic Sites in Kansas",2023-07-10,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OLATHE, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids and U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland were in Olathe to highlight the bipartisan infrastructure law’s work to clean up more than 5,400 hazardous, abandoned oil and gas wells that are polluting backyards, recreation areas, and public spaces across Kansas. The historic investments to clean up these hazardous sites have already begun creating good-paying, union jobs, introducing new economic opportunity, and reducing dangerous methane leaks. Davids was the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law.

After today’s community roundtable with local elected officials, community leaders, and labor representatives, Secretary Haaland announced the availability of nearly $660 million in grant funding to clean up toxic abandoned wells across the country. After receiving $25 million in initial funding last September, Kansas is once again eligible for an additional $25 million.

""Abandoned oil and gas wells pose a serious threat to the health and well-being of communities across Kansas, with the vast majority of these sites in the eastern part of our state,"" said Davids. ""Secretary Haaland and I were able to see the bipartisan infrastructure law’s momentous impact while visiting a few those hazardous sites today. I appreciate the Secretary’s focus on keeping our community and environment clean and creating good-paying jobs and new economic opportunities through the bipartisan infrastructure law.”

“As Representative Davids and I saw today, historic investments from the Bipartisan infrastructure Law are good for our climate, for the health of our communities, and for American workers. President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and Bidenomics strategy are enabling us to confront long-standing environmental injustices by plugging orphaned wells throughout the country,” said Secretary Deb Haaland, U.S. Department of the Interior. “With these resources, Kansas and states across our nation will put more people to work to clean up these toxic sites, reduce methane emissions and safeguard our environment.”

“The impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law for plugging abandoned wells in Kansas has been extremely significant,” said Ryan Hoffman, Director of Conservation, Kansas Corporation Commission. “The state of Kansas has been able to address the plugging of more orphaned well sites in six months than we have in the prior three years combined. The federal support has functioned as it was supposed to and kept qualified and highly competent contractors plugging these abandoned wells before they became pollution or safety threats to Kansans.”

More than 100,000 abandoned drilling sites across the country are at risk of emitting dangerous methane gas and leaking toxic pollution into nearby communities. Approximately nine million Americans live within a mile of these hazardous sites, exposing families to critical environmental and public health threats. In Kansas, wells are prioritized for action if they pose a threat to public water supply or safety, and more than 1,300 wells have been plugged in Kansas since the beginning of this year.

The bipartisan infrastructure law includes $4.7 billion in new federal funding to help communities plug orphaned wells. Davids previously announced Kansas will receive a total of $58.6 million in infrastructure law funding to plug the 5,400 hazardous wells in our state. Of that funding, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has been awarded an initial grant of $25 million to help plug 67 abandoned oil wells in Johnson County and 176 in Miami County. The KCC is using this federal support to pay for eight projects that will plug more than 2300 abandoned wells over the next three years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-helps-reopen-johnson-county-executive-airport-runway-celebrates-final,"Davids Helps Reopen Johnson County Executive Airport Runway, Celebrates Final Phase of Federally Funded Construction Project",2023-07-07,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OLATHE, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined the Johnson County Airport Commission to reopen Taxiway Bravo at Johnson County Executive Airport. The $5.7 million renovation of the aging taxiway, the final of three phases, was 100 percent funded by the Federal Aviation Administration's Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which Davids has voted to support. Davids previously joined the ribbon cutting for the reopening of Taxiway Alpha.

Davids was the only member of Kansas’ congressional delegation to vote in favor of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which boosted the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) with $22 million for Kansas. Of this specific AIP funding, Davids previously announced Johnson County Executive Airport received over $150,000 and Johnson County New Century AirCenter received nearly $700,000. Airports across the state can use these AIP funds for projects like the taxiway reopened today or to repair other aging airport infrastructure.

""Today's opening of Taxiway Bravo is an excellent example of the types of projects the bipartisan infrastructure law is helping address. This taxiway was past its expected service life and needed upgrades to remain safe,"" said Davids. ""We came together today not only to celebrate this renovated runway and its impact on jobs and economic growth in our community, but also to share excitement for similar, future projects funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law's $22 million investment in Kansas airports.""

“The Airport Commission is very grateful for our strong working relationship with our federal partners. Taxiway Bravo lasted past its expected service life and this project would not have been possible without the support of the Federal Aviation Administration and our Kansas federal delegation,” said Larry Peet, Interim Airport Commission Executive Director. “This investment will service the community for several decades into the future through support for safe aviation operations and economic development opportunities.”

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Rep. Sharice Davids, John County leadership, and Johnson County Executive Airport staff cutting a ribbon to open Taxiway Bravo.

With over 40,000 annual operations and approximately 120 based aircraft, Johnson County Executive Airport is the fourth busiest towered airport in the state of Kansas. The project celebrated today rehabilitates a major runway at the Airport, with the realignment of two existing runways and installation of new LED lighting to reduce maintenance costs. Previous phases of the project included replacing concrete, adding lighted signage, and installing additional, brighter LED lights.

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Rep. Sharice Davids, Johnson County leadership, and Johnson County Executive Airport staff.

Davids voted for the bipartisan infrastructure law, which is implementing the most comprehensive and holistic approach to improving U.S. airways. The law is paid for through a combination of new revenues and savings and has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In total, Kansas has received approximately $28.8 million in 2022 and 2023 for airports from the bipartisan infrastructure law.

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https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-visits-shawnee-childcare-facility-highlights-federal-investments-fix,"Davids Visits Shawnee Childcare Facility, Highlights Federal Investments to Fix Childcare Staffing Shortages",2023-07-06,2023,2023-07,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SHAWNEE, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids toured a local childcare facility to highlight how federal investments have supported the workforce and daily operations of local childcare small businesses. Davids visited Happy Campers Montessori School in Shawnee, which received American Rescue Plan support for childcare-focused continued education and workforce development.

Davids was the only member of the Kansas delegation to support the American Rescue Plan (ARP), which helped keep 3,810 Kansas childcare programs open during the pandemic, impacting up to 119,000 children. Experts have stated access to reliable and affordable childcare is necessary for the financial stability of working families and the economic growth and global competitiveness of our country.

“The pandemic hit small businesses like Happy Campers Montessori especially hard. I'm proud to have supported programs that helped them bounce back stronger than ever,” said Davids. ""Childcare facilities in Kansas and across the country are facing a staffing crisis. We must build upon the recent, strong job recovery to ensure childcare workers have good-paying jobs, our families are supported, and our economy continues to grow.”

“A lot of childcare providers do the work because we love children, but don’t necessarily know how to run a business. The class through the Women’s Business Center was very instrumental in bridging that gap,” said Christina Rose, Owner, Happy Campers Montessori School. “We also used federal funding to purchase an awning to shield the kids from the sun, enabling us to expand the classroom outside to our learning nature center.”

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Rep. Davids with children attending Happy Campers Montessori School.

“Johnson County is proud to partner with quality providers throughout our County to expand childcare access, which is critical to our families and our workforce,” said Mike Kelly, Board Chairman, Johnson County Board of County Commissioners. “As a family with two young children, my wife and I personally understand the challenge of finding quality childcare, and the stress and financial burden this can cause parents. I appreciate the work of Rep. Davids and the Biden administration to help address this fundamental issues for Johnson County families, so we can continue to grow our economy and our community.”

""Childcare is vital to our region’s workforce and having available childcare capacity allows Johnson County residents to get back to work,” said Judy Bumpus, Director of Client Services, Kansas City Women's Business Center (WBC). “The grant from Johnson County allows the WBC to provide much needed training focused on the business aspects of running a childcare facility to existing childcare business owners and those interested in opening new childcare facilities — helping to ensure they are profitable and stay in business.”

Thanks to the Davids-supported American Rescue Plan, Johnson County received $117 million to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including to support schools, students, and childcare programs. Happy Campers Montessori School has leveraged their funds to boost their workforce and purchase equipment and supplies needed for licensing. Christina Rose, owner of Happy Campers Montessori, participated in an eight-week childcare business course, created with ARP funds by the Johnson County Childcare Division and administered through the Kansas City Women's Business Center (WBC).

The Kansas City WBC serves Kansas entrepreneurs through trainings, workshops, counseling, and access to capital programs targeted at female business owners. Davids' bipartisan bill, which would increase access to resources and opportunities for female entrepreneurs in Kansas and across the country, passed the House last year. Davids also visited the Kansas City WBC last year, holding a roundtable with several local business owners who have worked with the center to build their companies.

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Rep. Davids and Becky Fast, Johnson County District 1 County Commissioner, speaks with Christina Rose, owner of Happy Campers Montessori School.

In 2021, Davids voted for the ARP to bring targeted COVID relief to the state and strengthen and expand the local childcare workforce. Kansas is providing $53 million in ARP funds for bonus payments of up to $2,500 to an estimated 22,650 early childhood care staff members across the state. The law has also supported small businesses and Kansas families:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-supreme-court-decision-lgbtqi-rights,Davids Statement on Supreme Court Decision on LGBTQI+ Rights,2023-06-30,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids released the following statement on today’s Supreme Court decision in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis. Today’s ruling provides an unprecedented constitutional basis for businesses involved in providing customized “expressive” services to discriminate against marginalized communities currently protected by public accommodations nondiscrimination laws.

“I am deeply disappointed with today’s extreme Supreme Court decision that turns back the clock on equal rights, allowing businesses to discriminate against LGBTQI+ Americans, and potentially other minority groups, based simply on who they are. Public businesses should be open to all people in our community, and I will continue working to make that a reality. Now, Congress must act to protect the American people, including by passing the Equality Act, which would renew our commitment to equality for all and send a message to the LGBTQI+ community that they are supported by our federal government.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-helps-break-ground-crucial-panasonic-manufacturing-facility-roadway,Davids Helps Break Ground on Crucial Panasonic Manufacturing Facility Roadway,2023-06-29,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DE SOTO, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids helped break ground on new infrastructure improvements to 103rd Street in De Soto, which will be the main roadway for those traveling to the planned Panasonic Energy manufacturing facility. Davids joined Governor Laura Kelly, Senator Jerry Moran, De Soto Mayor Rick Walker, and other local and state leaders to highlight the project’s objective of creating good-paying jobs, recruiting new businesses, and encouraging growth throughout the community.

“Panasonic's $4 billion investment is a game changer for our community, but we must make sure our public systems, from housing to education to infrastructure, can keep up with this growth,” said Davids. “This past March, I worked a construction shift alongside local workers to see how the city was preparing for the new road improvements announced today. With this groundbreaking, folks traveling to the Panasonic plant in the future will be able to do so safely and efficiently.”

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Representative Sharice Davids helps break ground on the De Soto Local Road Improvements project.

“Kansas is delivering the transportation infrastructure improvements needed to support the Panasonic facility during its construction and to serve employees, suppliers, and shippers once it is up and running,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “This De Soto project is one more example of why Kansas is truly a winning investment for companies small, large, and mega-sized.”

“Expanding the infrastructure in De Soto will help support the new Panasonic plant and the community,” said Senator Jerry Moran. “This project is a testament to the state, county and city working together to invest in the success of Panasonic and attract new businesses to the area.”

The De Soto Local Road Improvements project, which was kicked off today, will ensure individuals traveling to and from the Panasonic Energy Co. electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant can do so safely and efficiently. Specific improvements include widening 4.5 miles of the current two-lane asphalt road to a new four-lane roadway with new curbs, gutter, and sidewalks. The construction, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024, will mainly take place along West 103rd Street between Evening Star Road and the Lexington Avenue/K-10 interchange.

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Map of the De Soto Local Road Improvements project.

The Kansas Department of Commerce estimates more than 20,000 jobs will be created because of the developing Panasonic facility. To keep up with this job growth, Johnson County must now update and invest in local infrastructure, including roads, highways, and bridges. Davids recently hosted U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in De Soto to highlight the major impact the Panasonic plant will have in the community. She also hosted discussions with local business and manufacturing leaders on how to take advantage of recent federal legislation to bring jobs to the area, lower costs for consumers, and support workforce development.

Davids also worked a ""Sharice's Shift"" along 103rd Street, the road highlighted in today’s groundbreaking, to highlight the impact and implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law. In total, approximately $1.5 billion in bipartisan infrastructure law funding is headed to Kansas, with over 121 road, bridge, and water projects identified for funding. Additionally, nearly 60% of state capital for highway construction and planning projects in the state, like the K-10 interchange, is supported by federal funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law. Davids, who serves on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, met with the President and senior White House officials multiple times to help get this legislation across the finish line.

Image",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-participates-police-academy-trainings-highlights-support-kansas-law,"Davids Participates in Police Academy Trainings, Highlights Support for Kansas Law Enforcement",2023-06-28,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids visited the Johnson County Regional Police Academy, where she joined current trainees in learning certain skills needed to keep our communities safe. The Police Academy, located on Johnson County Community College’s campus, was established to provide basic law enforcement training for newly hired officers from 18 police agencies in Johnson County.

“Training alongside the Johnson County Regional Police Academy students today was unlike anything I’ve done since coming to Congress,” said Davids. “I was reminded of the hard work and determination needed to succeed both as a recruit at the Academy and as an officer in the field. The folks I spoke with today will help keep our community safe and secure for many years to come, and I’m thankful I got to learn from them.”

“Johnson County Community College is proud to welcome Rep. Davids to our Regional Police Academy,” said Sonta Wilburn, Director, Johnson County Regional Police Academy. “Our facility works with 18 police agencies in Johnson Country to provide basic law enforcement training for newly hired officers. We operate in cooperation with the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and the Johnson County Police Chiefs and Sheriffs Association. We celebrated our 138th graduating class last month and appreciate the Congresswoman’s time to visit the Academy and understand the important role we play in the community.”

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Representative Sharice Davids trains on CPR techniques with Johnson County Regional Police Academy recruits.

While at the Police Academy, Davids joined the recruits in learning tactical care skills used when an officer is the first to arrive on a scene. Specifically, Davids and the recruits learned to performed CPR and apply tourniquets to provide aid to themselves, other officers, and injured civilians. Davids also operated the firearm simulator, which helps train law enforcement to respond in controlled manner when using a firearm or other deadly force.

Johnson County Regional Police Academy recruits must first be employed as police officers by one of the 18 police agencies in Johnson County. While at the academy, theyreceive their basic law enforcement training, which is required by State law to take place within one year of being hired. Successful completion of the 18-week academy results in certification as a Kansas law enforcement officer. The academy is operated in cooperation with the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center, Johnson County Community College, and the Johnson County Police Chiefs and Sheriffs Association.

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Representative Sharice Davids applies a tourniquet while at the Johnson County Regional Police Academy.

This past May, during National Police Week, Davids took official action to boost resources for local law enforcement departments, reduce gun violence in Kansas, and support individual officers. The package of eight bills includes bipartisan legislation to improve care for officers coping with job-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eliminate backlogs of untested DNA samples, and crack down and schedule xylazine, the highly dangerous sedative causing fatal overdoses nationwide. It also strengthens background check requirements for those handling firearms.

Since being sworn in, Davids has worked to provide Kansas law enforcement officers with the tools needed to keep communities safe. She secured funding for the Olathe Police Department’s Mobile Command Unit and announced federal resources to hire additional law enforcement in Wyandotte County and improve mental health services in Overland Park. She previously voted for historic, bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to keep Kansans safe and a bill giving officers access to disability benefits for job-related PTSD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-major-federal-investment-help-close-kansas-digital-divide,Davids Announces Major Federal Investment to Help Close Kansas’ Digital Divide,2023-06-26,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded Kansas with $452 million in bipartisan infrastructure law funding to deploy affordable, equitable, and reliable high-speed Internet service throughout the state. Delivered through the Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, this federal investment will help ensure all Kansans have the capacity to thrive in our digital economy. Davids, who was the only member of the Kansas delegation to support the bipartisan infrastructure law, previously encouraged Kansans to fill out the National Broadband Map survey, which was the main source in determining state funding levels.

“Kansas’ current broadband system does not operate at the needed level for folks across our state to efficiently access crucial resources such as employment opportunities, virtual learning, and health care,” said Davids. “This new federal investment is a huge step forward in closing the digital gap and keeping our communities connected. I am proud to have voted for the bipartisan infrastructure law that continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Kansas families.""

“My administration is committed to ensuring every Kansan, regardless of their zip code, has access to fast and reliable internet connectivity, bringing additional economic growth, educational opportunities, and telehealth services,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “This funding advances our progress toward being a top 10 state for broadband access by 2030.”

“The Kansas Office of Broadband Development applauds Representative Davids’ efforts to ensure Kansans have the critical broadband access they need,” said Jade Piros de Carvalho, Broadband Director, Kansas Office of Broadband Development. “This historic investment will offer our best hope to date at ending the digital divide. “

In total, the bipartisan infrastructure law has provided more than $500 million to Kansas to improve access to high-speed internet, build out the state’s broadband infrastructure, and make high-speed internet more affordable. In December 2022, Kansas was awarded its first round of BEAD funds to develop a five-year action plan, identify unserved and underserved locations, and build capacity at the Kansas Office of Broadband Development.

The bipartisan infrastructure law, which is paid for through a combination of new revenues and savings, has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Davids previously announced Kansas received federal investments to close Kansas’ digital gapand to expand middle-mile high-speed internet infrastructure. Also, about 85,000 households in Kansas are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program, which ensures families can afford broadband needed for work, school, and health care.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-cleaver-announce-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-funding-improve-clean,"Davids, Cleaver Announce Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding to Improve Clean Energy Transit in KC Metro Area",2023-06-26,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KANSAS CITY, MO - Today, Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) announced the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) with a total of $14,888,000 in bipartisan infrastructure law funding. The two grants will fund structural improvements at KCATA’s bus storage and electric vehicle charging facility and strengthen access to housing, health care, employment, and education for citizens in the Kansas City metro area. Davids, who urged DOT Secretary Buttigieg to award a portion of these funds to KCATA, was the only member of the Kansas Congressional delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law.

""Better, safer, and more reliable transit systems benefit our economy and environment because folks use them to get to work and school, access health care, and more,” said Davids. “The bipartisan infrastructure law continues to provide concrete, climate-friendly investments in our community’s transportation needs. I was glad to work with Congressman Cleaver and KCATA, as well as other state and local leaders, to secure these funds and improve the quality of life for folks in the Kansas Third.”

The two awards announced today for KCATA include the:

Buses and Bus Facilities Program: $10,388,000

This project will help KCATA improve their bus storage facility by replacing the insufficient roof, installing solar roof panels, replacing deteriorated concrete flooring, installing a new fire alarm system, and replacing the 45-year-old air conditioning and heating unit.

Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) grant: $4,500,000

This project will help create an east to west transit connection between the University of Kansas Health System and Rock Island Corridor/Truman Sports Complex.

This award builds upon the SAMPLE Corridor, which Davids and Cleaver announced last year, to create a zero-emissions transit route from Village West in Wyandotte County, Kansas, to Independence, Missouri.

Image

Representatives Davids and Cleaver present a check to the KCATA team.

“This is outstanding news for the region, and progress as promised,” said Frank White III, CEO, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. “Thank you to Representatives Cleaver and Davids and the entire Congressional delegation. These funds will go a long way toward modernizing KCATA’s facilities, resulting in greater efficiencies and sustainability.”

“These are crucial investments for the SAMPLE Corridor, which are only going to attract even more federal dollars to the region as we continue to showcase the benefits of sustainable transportation in Kansas City,” said Representative Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05). “I am incredibly thrilled to see these federal investments being made to support the SAMPLE Corridor and KCATA’s commitment to creating more efficient, cleaner, sustainable service – and I am proud to have supported the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that made these awards possible for our community.”

Image

Representatives Davids and Cleaver before the bipartisan infrastructure law funding announcement.

Earlier this year, Davids celebrated her and Representative Cleaver’s successful request to acquire and replace up to 10 KCATA electric buses and increase support infrastructure, serving the entire bi-state Kansas City area. She also previously announced funds from the bipartisan infrastructure law to improve transit system reliability and increase accessibility for seniors and passengers with disabilities. These investments, along with the funding announced today, will allow KCATA to continue growing their nationally recognized fleet of electric buses and serve more people in the Kansas Third.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-introduces-bill-increase-access-birth-control-and-reproductive-health-0,Davids Introduces Bill to Increase Access to Birth Control and Reproductive Health Care Services,2023-06-23,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids, along with Representatives Judy Chu (CA-28) and Dina Titus (NV-01), reintroduced legislation to increase access to birth control and reproductive health care services. The Expanding Access to Family Planning Actwould fund the Title X Family Planning program, which provides comprehensive, confidential family planning and preventive health services, often to low-income or minority populations. Currently, there are three Title X clinics in Kansas’ Third District. Senators Tina Smith (MN) and Patty Murray (WA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

This Saturday marks the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, which significantly limited access to reproductive health care across the country. In the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization ruling, Justice Clarence Thomas issued a concurring opinion stating the Supreme Court “should reconsider” their previous ruling that affirmed access to contraception.

“As access to reproductive health care is under attack and our personal freedoms are called into question, it has never been more important to ensure Kansans can accessbirth control, life-saving preventive care, and family planning services through vital resources like Title X clinics,” said Davids. “These clinics deliver services that many Kansans rely on to plan a family and stay healthy, and we should do everything in our power to safeguard their resources.”

The Title X Family Planning Program is the only federal program dedicated to providing comprehensive family planning and preventive health care services. In 2016 alone, over 4 million Americans relied on Title X clinics for their contraception counseling, breast and cervical cancer screenings, sexually transmitted infections testing and treatment, and pregnancy diagnosis and counseling.

The Expanding Access to Family Planning Act would:

Provide $512 million annually for 10 years for Title X services, as the program is subjected to an unpredictable funding stream that is insufficient to meet the national needs.

Deliver $50 million in mandatory funding for clinic construction, renovation, and related infrastructure enhancements for each of the next 10 fiscal years.

Reinstate regulations prohibiting discrimination of providers who deliver Title X services.

Require that pregnancy counseling include information about prenatal care and delivery, infant care, foster care, adoption, and pregnancy termination, unless a patient does not have any interest in receiving information about an option.

""In the face of relentless attacks on reproductive rights by extreme MAGA Republicans and judges nationwide, Congress must stand up for Title X so it can offer quality, client-centered, and affordable family planning and sexual health care to millions,” said Representative Judy Chu (CA-28). “While the Biden-Harris Administration has made strides in restoring Title X services, our legislation goes further: more funding, improved clinic infrastructure, and reinstating anti-discrimination rules for providers. With the Dobbs decision disproportionately harming low-income families, uninsured individuals, rural communities, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals, enacting this legislation would be a lifeline for them.""

“One year ago this week, women across Nevada and the U.S. were denied the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies and their families’ futures,” said Representative Dina Titus (NV-01). “By fully funding family planning services, we can protect their rights to access lifesaving preventive care, birth control, and other reproductive health services at a time when these freedoms are under constant attack.”

“At a time when Americans’ reproductive freedoms are under attack from extremist Republicans, the Title X Family Planning Program is more important than ever,” said Senator Tina Smith (MN). “Title X funding provides American women with access to critical reproductive health services. I invite all my Republican colleagues who claim to champion family planning services to join us in supporting this commonsense legislation that will protect women’s access to birth control, pregnancy counseling, basic infertility services, and more.”

Davids has been a champion for increased access to sexual and reproductive health care through the Title X program as there are currently three Title X clinics in Kansas’ Third District: the Franklin County Health Department in Ottawa and two Johnson County Health Department locations in Mission and Olathe. Davids has supported appropriations funding for the Title X program every year since being sworn into Congress. She has also voted twice to support the Women’s Health Protection Act, which safeguards access to reproductive health care in all states across the country.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grant-improve-mental-health-services-jccc,Davids Announces Federal Grant to Improve Mental Health Services at JCCC,2023-06-21,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded Johnson County Community College (JCCC) with $75,129 to enhance on-campus mental health services. The Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant will support JCCC students at risk of suicide, depression, serious mental illness, and/or substance use disorders that can lead to school failure. Today, almost half of college-aged students report suffering from symptoms of depression and anxiety.

“College-aged students inherently face life changes that can be difficult to handle, leading to decreased mental and emotional well-being without the necessary support,” said Davids. “These new federal resources will ensure students at Johnson County Community College have access to the help needed to be successful inside and outside the classroom. As an alum, I am proud to support their continuous goal of serving all students better.”

Specifically, this Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grant will:

Connect students with behavioral health care providers who treat mental illness and substance use disorders;

Train faculty, students, and staff on mental health first aid, suicide prevention, and substance abuse disorders;

Foster a campus culture that encourages students to seek help when struggling with mental health challenges and substance abuse disorders.

“Johnson County Community College is committed to helping our students achieve their educational goals,” said Dr. Andy Bowne, President, Johnson County Community College. “To fulfill our commitment, we realize the importance of ensuring we have the support in place for students experiencing mental health crises. Through the Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention grant, our college will provide training to faculty, staff, and students; strengthen partnerships within the mental health community; and enhance our ability to better serve our students.”

Garrett Lee Smith, son of Senator Gordon Smith (OR), died by suicide the day before his twenty-second birthday. The Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act of 2004 first authorized the federal resources announced today, allowing higher education institutions to combat suicide on campus and expand efforts to promote wellness for all students. Davids voted to reauthorize the Youth Suicide Prevention Program through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 and requested increased funding for the program for Fiscal Year 2024.

Davids has focused on improving mental health care since taking office. She has helped secure funding for mental health programs in Wyandotte and Johnson Counties, and has advocated for stronger mental health supports in schools. Her legislation to renew federal mental health grant programs for health centers, schools, and law enforcement passed the House last year. She also introduced bipartisan legislation to improve opioid misuse prevention among student athletes and additional legislation to improve mental health supports for at-risk LGBTQ+ youth.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-davids-barr-introduce-bipartisan-bill-address-impact-substance-abuse,"Reps. Davids, Barr Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Address Impact of Substance Abuse on America’s Workforce",2023-06-20,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Last week, Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) and Andy Barr (R-KY-06) introduced legislation to reauthorize the Comprehensive Addiction Recovery through Effective Employment and Reentry (CAREER) Act, which helps address the impact of substance abuse on America’s workforce. This bill would make improvements to a program that supports individuals recovering from substance use disorder, ensuring they can reenter the workforce and maintain gainful employment.

“Substance abuse has affected far too many Kansas families, and we must ensure those recovering from addiction are supported and have access to good-paying jobs,” said Davids. “I’m proud to join Representative Barr in leading the CAREER Act, which enables folks recovering from substance abuse to find employment and live independently. There are so many local organizations who walk alongside our neighbors in recovery, and I’m proud to support their mission.”

“The CAREER Act has been instrumental in fostering workforce development, vocational training, and the acquisition of vital skills within our communities. By renewing its authorization, we will amplify the efficacy and influence of this essential program, guaranteeing that American workers possess the necessary tools to succeed in the dynamic job market of the 21st century,” said Representative Andy Barr (R-KY-06). “Given the ongoing struggles our nation faces due to substance abuse, it is imperative that we prioritize assistance and allocate resources for individuals seeking recovery. I am appreciative of the opportunity to collaborate with Congresswoman Davids on this pivotal legislation.”

In 2018, the CAREER Act was included in the bipartisan SUPPORT For Patients and Communities Act, legislation signed into law to empower local communities and law enforcement to fight the opioid epidemic. Now, the CAREER Act would reauthorize the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Treatment, Recovery and Workforce Support Grant Program, which directs award recipients to determine workforce gaps and coordinate employment and training activities for participants. The reauthorization would also increase funding for the program and allow the grants to be used for transportation between work, training, and recovery services.

Davids has made it a priority to address the opioid and fentanyl epidemic head-on. She hosted multiple summits with law enforcement and health care workers on combatting the fentanyl epidemic and has taken a number of legislative actions based on the specific needs of the Kansas Third District, including:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-davids-applaud-scotus-decision-uphold-icwa,"Cole, Davids Applaud SCOTUS Decision to Uphold ICWA",2023-06-16,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Native American Caucus, released the following statement after the United States Supreme Court today ruled in favor by a 7-2 vote to uphold the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and the law’s preference for Native tribes when Indian children are adopted. The ruling provides that the law does not discriminate on the basis of race and does not impose a federal mandate on states.

“Since 1978, the Indian Child Welfare Act has protected vulnerable children from being taken from their tribal communities and culture during custody or guardianship proceedings,” said the co-chairs. “This landmark decision rightly upholds protections for Native children and reaffirms the sovereign rights of tribal governments. We applaud the Supreme Court in rejecting these challenges and standing with Native American children and their right to remain in their own cultures.”

Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-funding-strengthen-high-speed,Davids Announces Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding to Strengthen High-Speed Internet Across Kansas,2023-06-16,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) awarded Kansas with $42.5 million in bipartisan infrastructure law funding to expand middle mile high-speed internet across the state, including in all five counties in Kansas’ Third Congressional District. Davids, who was the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law, and Representative Jake LaTurner (KS-02) advocated for this funding to come to Kansas.

""The internet is used to access crucial resources such as employment opportunities, business software capabilities, virtual learning, and health care,"" said Davids. ""This new federal investment will help close the digital gap and keep our communities connected – particularly those who have not had access to high-speed internet in the past. I am proud to have voted for the bipartisan infrastructure law that continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Kansas families.""

Middle mile internet infrastructure carries large amounts of data over long distances, boosts network resiliency, lowers the cost of internet service for unconnected households, and increases access to high-speed internet for rural and unserved regions of Kansas. Kansas state officials are working with private and non-profit partners to create a 682-mile open-access middle-mile network, with plans to connect multiple new internet exchange points throughout the state.

Image

Map of Kansas’ middle mile partnership project to expand access to high-speed internet.

""Every day, my administration works to deliver high-speed internet to more Kansas families and businesses,"" said Governor Laura Kelly. ""That’s why I supported our application for this grant that will set up the infrastructure needed to reach 27,000 more homes and provide opportunities for economic success across the state.""

“An open access middle mile network is crucial to Kansas’ ability to bring affordable, high-speed broadband to underserved residents and businesses,” said Jade Piros de Carvalho, Director of Broadband Development, Kansas Department of Commerce. “The Kansas Office of Broadband Development is grateful for Representative Davids’ support for the legislation that funded this opportunity and for her support of internet for all.”

The bipartisan infrastructure law, which is paid for through a combination of new revenues and savings, has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. To date, Kansas has also received $5 million through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) to help provide access to high-speed internet across the state. Also, about 85,000 households in Kansas are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program, which ensures families can afford broadband needed for work, school, health care.

Background

The purpose of Kansas’ internet expansion project is to connect to multiple new internet points throughout the state. The proposed route will support smaller internet service providers in rural and unserved areas, helping them to provide high-speed internet service to more households. The award also moves Kansas closer to high-speed internet access for all, with download speeds optimal for a 21st century society.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-introduces-bill-give-expecting-parents-choice-over-child-health-care,Davids Introduces Bill to Give Expecting Parents Choice Over Child Health Care Insurance,2023-06-15,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids reintroduced the Empowering Parents’ Healthcare Choices Act, a bill designed to cut insurer red tape, avoid surprise bills, and give parents decision-making power over their infant’s health care—not the insurance company.

Currently, many expecting parents with separate health insurance policies are subject to an obscure and often undisclosed rule known as “the birthday rule,” which determines the insurance policy that will cover a new baby—regardless of what the parents want. Insurance companies often do not inform parents of this policy, which can result in surprise medical bills for growing families. That’s what happened to the Kjelshus family of Olathe, KS, when they welcomed their daughter Charlie to the world—leaving them with a $270,951 out-of-network hospital billeven though they had planned for Charlie’s birth based on the coverage they expected to use.

The Empowering Parents’ Healthcare Choices Act would give parents 60 days after the birth of their child to choose which insurance policy will cover their new baby. It would also give the Administration authority to instruct insurers on how and when to notify parents of their rights, helping more families avoid frustrating red tape, surprise bills, and insurance policy mazes.

“Welcoming a child into your family should be a joyful event, free from undue stress and financial burden at the hands of insurance companies,” said Davids. “This is a simple fix that gives parents the power over their baby’s health care coverage, so they can make an informed choice about their family’s future. For the Kjelshus family and countless others, I am proud to once again introduce the Empowering Parents’ Healthcare Choices Act.”

“We thought we had everything prepared for our daughter’s arrival, but the ‘birthday rule’ ended up putting us in an unexpected and financially stressful back-and-forth with insurance companies for over a year,” said Mikkel and Kayla Kjelshus of Olathe, KS. “We are glad that Rep. Davids is bringing attention to this issue, which affects so many families and can put incredible strain on what should be a happy time. Just by giving the power and knowledge to families on their health care decision, this bill would make a big difference in every new parents’ life.”

“First Focus Campaign for Children applauds Congresswoman Sharice Davids for addressing an important but often overlooked coverage barrier for new parents,” said Bruce Lesley, President, First Focus Campaign for Children. “We think parents should decide which parent has the right insurance coverage for their new baby, not the insurance companies. Let’s ensure that families don’t incur unnecessary medical debt after the birth of a child simply because of an outdated and arbitrary ‘birthday rule.’ We hope Congress will quickly pass The Empowering Parents’ Healthcare Choices Act.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-votes-bipartisan-legislation-improve-consumer-protections-safety-air,"Davids Votes for Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Consumer Protections, Safety for Air Travelers",2023-06-14,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids voted to advance bipartisan legislation to improve customer protections and accessibility, increase America’s aviation safety standards, and strengthen domestic aviation workforce and manufacturing. Today’s vote in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee begins the formal process of passing the next Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization, which will fund the agency for the next five years and provide new guidance and standards for the agency, airlines, and manufacturers.

“In recent months, we’ve seen a frustrating rise in mass flight cancellations, runway near-misses, and costs for air travelers. It’s time Congress acts to provide Americans with a sense of security while traveling,” said Davids. “I’m proud to have worked with Republicans and Democrats to advance legislation that includes many of the priorities I’ve pushed for, including updated safety regulations, more protections for consumers, and incentives to boost the aviation industry here in America. I’m glad we could once again come together to protect the physical and financial well-being of Americans and I look forward to continuing these discussions with my colleagues in the House and Senate.”

The bipartisan Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, which Davids voted for today,will reauthorize the FAA and protect the flying public. Specifically, it:

Improves airline customer protections and accessibility by directing the Department of Transportation (DOT) to:

Develop policies for airlines to reimburse passengers for meal and hotel costs incurred when a flight is cancelled;

Require airlines to create plans to prevent and limit the impact of mass flight cancelations;

Establish policies allowing passengers to sit next to their young child.

Increases America’s aviation safety standards by:

Decreasing the risk of airport collisions;

Reviewing airplane passenger emergency medical kits and evacuation procedures;

Requiring the FAA to update security measures to help prevent assaults against flight crews and passengers.

Strengthens U.S. aviation workforce and manufacturing by:

Hiring more air traffic controller agents;

Boosting American manufacturing through limiting Chinese-owned companies from accessing federal dollars.

The bill includes additional priorities Davids has pushed for in the past, including advanced air mobility (AAM) regulations and the use of sustainable aviation fuel. Davids’ legislation to promote AAM, an emerging sector of the aviation industry that creates an entirely new mode of transportation using specialized vehicles to transport people and cargo, was signed into law by President Biden last year. Davids also voted for a new law that included investments in infrastructure needed for sustainable aviation fuel, a biofuel that has similar properties to conventional jet fuel but with a smaller carbon footprint.

Today’s markup vote follows a series of House Transportation and Infrastructure hearings on various aviation issues and the solicitation of input from Members of Congress and the aviation stakeholder community. The bill now heads to the House floor for debate and a vote. The Senate has released a separate, bipartisan legislative plan to reauthorize the FAA. The House and Senate will likely prioritize a combination of the two bills that will pass in both chambers before the 2018 FAA reauthorization expires on September 30, 2023.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-funding-early-childhood-education-johnson-county,Davids Announces Federal Funding for Early Childhood Education in Johnson County,2023-06-13,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded a renewal of $1.8 million to Growing Futures Early Education Center, a Head Start program in Overland Park, Kansas. These new resources will be used to continue providing early education opportunities and family support services at no cost to eligible children and families in Johnson County.

“The first few years of a child’s life are critical for development, and Head Start programs teach social and emotional skills, while preparing children to succeed in their future educational endeavors,” said Davids. “The benefits of Head Start programs appear immediately and last a lifetime. I am proud to continue to support funding for programs like Growing Futures throughout the Kansas Third.”

Growing Futures Early Education Center has served children and families in Johnson County since 1965. Their Head Start (ages three to five) and Early Head Start (ages zero to three) early education programs are available to eligible students that live inside county lines. In addition, Growing Futures offers families a variety of health care support services, including medical immunizations, dental examinations, mental and behavioral health programming, and nutrition assistance.

Currently, Growing Futures Early Education Center has 223 enrolled students, with an active waitlist of more than 200 children. In Johnson County, 5.9% of the population lives below the poverty line, while the number of people experiencing poverty has increased by 134% over the past decade. Most students in Head Start programs come from low-income households, where children statistically have lower testing scores, are at higher risk of poor health, and are less likely to graduate high school.

Davids previously visited Growing Futures Early Education Center in March of 2022. As a first-generation college student who worked her way from Leavenworth High School to Cornell Law School, Davids understands the value of a quality education for the success of a student. In the 117th Congress, she announcedfunding for three additional Head Start programs: Kansas City Kansas Public School's Successful Beginnings, The Family Conservancy, and the University of Kansas Medical Center's Project Eagle. Davids also voted for the American Rescue Plan, which allocated about $29 million to Kansas' Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) program to support early intervention and special education services.

Background:

Since its creation in 1965, Head Start has reached over 40 million children across the United States. Nationwide, children ages 0-5 whose families meet federal poverty guidelines, are experiencing homelessness, receiving public assistance services, or are in the foster care system are eligible for Head Start programs. Head Start has options for every child’s specific learning needs, including home-based services, center-based services, or a combination of settings.

Long-term benefits of Head Start programs are not just limited to educational success. Children involved in Head Start are healthier, have better social and emotional skills, and are more likely to graduate high school. In adulthood, statistics show that former Head Start students experience greater economic stability in comparison to non-Head Start students.

Federal funding for this grant was authorized by H.R. 2617, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, which Davids voted to support in 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/during-pride-month-davids-introduces-bill-supporting-lgbtqi-youth-mental,"During Pride Month, Davids Introduces Bill Supporting LGBTQI+ Youth Mental Health",2023-06-08,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during Pride Month, Representative Sharice Davids reintroduced legislation to improve mental health supports for at-risk LGBTQI+ youth. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey of American teenagers recently found that LGBTQI+ students report significantly worse mental health than other students. Also, nearly half of gay, lesbian, and bisexual teens said they considered committing suicide in the last year. The Pride in Mental Health Act works to close LGBTQI+ mental health information gaps and improve physical and mental health in at-risk youth.

""Youth here in Kansas and across the country continue to struggle with mental health challenges, but we are failing many of our most vulnerable children on this issue,"" said Davids. ""My Pride in Mental Health Act takes a comprehensive and data-driven approach to tackling the mental health crisis among youth in the LGBTQI+ community. To put it simply, by increasing access to mental health supports for our children and teens, we are saving lives.""

Specifically, the Pride in Mental Health Act:

Increases mental health supports for LGBTQI+ youth by developing mental health resources, training for caregivers, school bullying prevention guidelines, and more.

Protects at-risk youth by commissioning a report on the mental health and mental health care of LGBTQI+ youth in foster care and other federal social services programs.

Directs the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to review and update resources listed on their website that pertain to LGBTQI+ communities.

The Pride in Mental Health Act has been endorsed by the Congressional Equality Caucus, Human Rights Campaign, GLSEN, National Education Association (NEA), National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE), PFLAG National, American Psychological Association (APA), Whitman-Walker Institute, interACT: Advocates for Intersex Youth, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), The Trevor Project, Seattle Indian Health Board, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“According to the Trevor Project this year, nearly one in three LGBTQI+ youth say their mental health is poor most of the time or always due to hateful anti-LGBTQI+ policies and legislation,” said Representative Ritchie Torres (NY-15). “This is both heartbreaking and a call to action. As someone who’s struggled with my own mental health much of my life and as the first openly gay Afro Latino elected to Congress, I’m proud to co-lead the Pride in Mental Health Act to improve access to services for at-risk LGBTQI+ youth, who deserve safe and affirming environments and resources to learn, grow, and thrive as their authentic selves.”

“There is a mental health crisis among LGBTQI+ youth across the United States and we need to do a better job supporting this vulnerable community,” said Representative Eric Sorensen (IL-17). “I am proud to help introduce The Pride in Mental Health Act, which ensures that LGBTQI+ youth get the mental health care and resources they need so we can save lives.”

""LGBTQ+ youth are overrepresented in the foster care system and among youth that are unstably housed, but the inadequate collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity makes it challenging to fully assess the vulnerabilities and needs of LGBTQ youth including for mental health support,"" said David Stacy, Vice President for Government Affairs Director, Human Rights Campaign. ""The Pride in Mental Health Act takes several important steps to address these inequities such as ensuring inclusion of LGBTQ+ youth in research programs and data collection as well as funding training for personnel who work with LGBTQ youth. We are grateful to Rep. Sharice Davids for her leadership in introducing this important legislation.""

“Our kids who identify as LGBTQI+ far too often face discrimination and experience increases in mental health symptoms and suicidality. Unfortunately, they struggle in accessing the mental health care they need and deserve,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “Rep. Davids’ Pride in Mental Health Act will provide grants that improve access to LGBTQI+ youth mental health services and support. NAMI applauds Rep. Davids for introducing this legislation and proudly supports this bill.”

“The American Psychological Association applauds Rep. Sharice Davids for reintroducing the Pride in Mental Health Act. APA has long advocated for mental health supports and services for at-risk children and adolescents, including LGBTQ+ youth,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD., Chief Executive Officer, American Psychological Association. “APA also welcomes provisions in the legislation that enhance the ability of the Substance use And Mental Health Services Administration to respond to behavioral health needs of these young people and close information gaps by collecting data on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. This trauma-informed approach is needed more than ever as LGBTQ+ youth are already under a tremendous amount of stress.”

“It’s an unfortunate reality that many LGBTQ+ youth don’t have the safe, welcoming environments that all young people should have,” said Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, Executive Director, GLSEN. “Being excluded, erased, and further stigmatized — by discriminatory policies, peers, and by adults who should protect young people — harms LGBTQI+ youth’s mental health and overall wellbeing. GLSEN commends U.S. Representative Sharice Davids for reintroducing the Pride in Mental Health Act to help fund and evaluate programming that supports LGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming mental health programming for youth at school and otherwise. We must address the mental health crisis among LGBTQ+ youth, and this bill will save lives.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/committee-passes-davids-amendment-bipartisan-supply-chain-package,Committee Passes Davids’ Amendment in Bipartisan Supply Chain Package,2023-06-06,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"In a hearing last week, the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee voted to approve Representative Sharice Davids’ amendment to a bipartisan package focused on reinforcing the nation’s supply chain and protecting it from future disruptions. Davids’ amendment strengthens a pilot program to study the impact of increased trucking weights, a critical part of the supply chain for consumer goods and other industries.

The package includes over a dozen bills focused on making needed transportation safety updates and improving supply chain flexibility and resiliency. Davids amended H.R. 3372, introduced by Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), which would establish a voluntary pilot program for states to increase truck weights on federal interstates. The program will study the impact of increasing weights up to 91,000 lbs. on six axles with an additional braking system.

Davids’ amendment changed the length from 10 years to a 5-year program with the option to extend for another 5 years, a suggestion that was welcomed by both parties to preserve the pilot nature of the study. If adopted, this change could reduce the number of trucks on the road, lowering greenhouse gas emissions while helping get more goods from ship to shelf in a safe and efficient manner.

“One thing we’ve learned over the last few years is just how critical our domestic supply chain is to our economy and our everyday lives. I was glad to work with my Republican colleagues to come at this issue from a new angle, creating a national pilot program that will study increased truck weights and improved safety features,” said Davids. “If successful, we will be able to lower emissions and strengthen our supply chain, avoiding costly shortages and delays that hurt Kansas businesses and consumers. I look forward to continuing bipartisan cooperation on this issue.”

“I know sometimes people think this town is only about politics, but I really want to applaud a number of members on the other side of the aisle who are focused on policy. Ms. Davids did exactly what you’re supposed to do,” said Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD). “I want to thank Ms. Davids and others for working hard to get to yes.”

Watch Davids and Johnson address the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee about their legislative work:

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Rep. Davids and Rep. Allred speak during a Transportation and Infrastructure Committee markup.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-federal-grant-eliminate-olathe-railroad-crossing-improving,"Davids Announces Federal Grant to Eliminate Olathe Railroad Crossing, Improving Safety and Decreasing Congestion",2023-06-05,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has awarded the City of Olathe $17,987,495 to eliminate a rail crossing and build a road overpass, decreasing traffic accidents and improving travel times. The project, supported through the bipartisan infrastructure law’s Railroad Crossing Elimination (RCE) Program, is part of the larger 119th St. Expansion Project. Davids, a member of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law.

According to the FRA, in 2019, there were more than 2,000 collisions at railroad crossings in the United States, with 290 preventable fatalities. By eliminating this at-grade rail crossing in Olathe, motorists and pedestrians traveling through the city will have a safer commute to work, school, and home. But not only will safety improve, but also commute times, as motorists will no longer need to slow down to cross or wait as trains pass, decreasing congestion. Specifically, the new overpass will provide:

A safer route to schools and work,

A new pedestrian and bicycle sidewalk to the Gary Haller Trail system,

A direct connection between I-35 and KS State Highway 7.

“Far too many accidents occur at rail crossings, including right here in our community,” said Davids. “The fatalities that follow are preventable, and thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, folks traveling to work or school will no longer have to cross this rail junction on 119th Street. But not only will this project improve safety, it will also decrease commute times and provide a new sidewalk so Kansans can enjoy the Gary Haller Trail. This is just one more example of how the bipartisan infrastructure law is benefitting our community.”

“East/west travel in Olathe remains a top citizen priority that the City of Olathe is continuously working to improve,” said Tim Danneberg, Director of External Affairs, City of Olathe. “The 119th St. extension project will improve east/west traffic flow and safety while creating another train free route in Olathe. This funding will help this critical project across the finish line, overcoming rising construction costs due to inflation.”

“The Railroad Crossing Elimination Grant Program is another critical tool that FRA is using to make a lasting impact on the safety and transportation needs of communities nationwide,” said Amit Bose, Administrator, Federal Railroad Administration. “With these project selections and the many more that are to come, we will save lives and reshape infrastructure in ways that allow individuals to move through their neighborhoods seamlessly and safely.”

The bipartisan infrastructure law, which is paid for through a combination of new revenues and savings, has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Its RCE Program provides funding for rail crossing improvement projects that focus on improving the safety and mobility of people and goods. The City of Olathe and the Johnson County Assistance Road System fund will contribute a 53 percent non-Federal match to the project announced today.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-kelly-discuss-medicaid-eligibility-requirements-push-further-expansion,"Davids, Kelly Discuss Medicaid Eligibility Requirements, Push for Further Expansion",2023-06-02,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"OLATHE, KS – Today, Representative Sharice Davids and Governor Laura Kelly joined state officials and local health care advocates to discuss renewed KanCare eligibility requirements and their continued efforts to expand Medicaid. The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency halted Medicaid eligibility reviews, but now the reviews have restarted and currently-covered Kansans are at risk of losing their health care without proper preparation. Kansas remains one of only 10 states where the state legislatures have repeatedly blocked Medicaid expansion despite federal incentives that would make it essentially free to do so.

In March 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) temporarily waived certain Medicaid requirements and conditions to prevent people from losing their health coverage during the pandemic. As of April 2023, Kansas has restarted these eligibility reviews and will continue reviewing throughout the next year. According to some estimates, up to 15 million people could lose their current Medicaid coverage through this renewal process, including 500,000 Kansans.

“While I’m glad we could help ensure qualifying Kansans don’t lose their health care during the KanCare reviewal process, it’s far past time for Kansas to expand Medicaid coverage,” said Davids. “I’ve worked for years to ensure all Kansans can receive the affordable, quality health care they deserve, but certain actors at the state level have forgone already-paid-for federal dollars as part of a political agenda. My fight continues, and I’m glad to have Governor Kelly and other local partners like Health Partnership Clinic beside me, working to keep Kansans safe and healthy.”

“I’ve applied for KanCare four times, only to be denied each time due to the limited qualification standards,” said Mary Stapleton, Prairie Village resident. “What that has done to my life has been devastating. I’m not in the workforce, I don’t pay taxes, and I don’t have the capacity to spend money in my community. I live in the wealthiest county in Kansas but cannot get the health coverage I need. That’s why Kansas must expand Medicaid. I want to thank Governor Laura Kelly and Representative Sharice Davids for their advocacy in trying to better our health care coverage.”

“Health insurance is foundational to healthy communities, which is why I’m glad to join forces with Representative Davids to make sure qualifying Kansans know what they need to do to keep their coverage,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “But this process makes the need to expand Medicaid that much clearer – it will boost our economy, bring hard-earned tax dollars back to our state, and most importantly, save lives. We must get this done next session.”

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Kansas Deputy Medicaid Director Christine Osterlund, U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, and Kansas Governor Laura Kelly speaking at a press conference earlier today.

Davids successfully fought to include increased financial incentives for Medicaid expansion in the American Rescue Plan. Under those incentives, Medicaid expansion in Kansas would be completely paid for through the first two years, after which the federal government would continue to cover 90% of the cost. Kansas was also recently approved to use American Rescue Plan funds to expand Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers—coverage that previously ended just two months after giving birth.

Davids has also supported legislation that would create a federal Medicaid-style program to extend coverage eligibility to all individuals under 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, establishing a permanent solution for the failure of non-expansion states like Kansas to extend the program. As Congress already paid for Medicaid expansion in the Affordable Care Act, this federal Medicaid program should require no additional offsets.

Research confirms that Medicaid expansion increases access to care, improves financial security, and leads to better health outcomes, and failure to expand Medicaid disproportionately affects people of color, as 60% of people in the coverage gap are Black, Hispanic, Asian, or Pacific Islander. Additionally, a recent report found that Kansas could increase its economic output by $17 billion and add an estimated 23,000 new jobs if the state chose to expand Medicaid.

“As a federally qualified health center serving Johnson, Miami, and Franklin counties, our mission is to improve the health of the communities we serve through the provision of high quality, affordable accessible and culturally appropriate care to all individuals regardless of the ability to pay,” said Amy Falk, Chief Executive officer, Health Partnership Clinic. “While we serve individuals with all forms of insurance, a significant amount of our adults are the working poor and are unable to afford coverage or qualify for Medicaid. Every day we see the impact that not expanding Medicaid has on Kansans. We truly thank Representative Davids and Governor Kelly for their ongoing efforts to expand Medicaid.”

“The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is working to ensure that reviews are processed efficiently, accurately and in compliance with federal regulations for all Kansans with Medicaid, including ensuring our fellow Kansans are provided more than the required timeframe to return their review,” said Christine Osterlund, Deputy Medicaid Director and Director of Operations, Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “It is vital that any Kansan with Medicaid update their contact information with the KanCare Clearinghouse and that all review paperwork is signed, dated and received by the KanCare Clearinghouse by the date listed on the review form.”

During the KanCare eligibility process, Kansans can lose their health care, even if they still qualify for coverage. To ensure preparedness, people should first ensure the state has the correct address on file to be sent the renewal paperwork. Once they’ve received the paperwork in the mail, it should be filled out and returned in a timely manner. Local HealthCare.gov navigators and organizations like El Centro in Kansas City, KS can assist in accurately completing the forms. Those no longer eligible for Medicaid can visit HealthCare.gov to find a coverage plan that is best for their family.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-cleaver-seek-answers-dramatic-delays-passport-applications,"Davids, Cleaver Seek Answers to Dramatic Delays in Passport Applications",2023-06-01,2023,2023-06,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) urged U.S. Department of State (DOS) Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Rita Bitter to provide answers for the dramatic delays in processing passport applications. In recent months, both offices have received a growing number of messages from constituents experiencing delays in requesting a passport. To help constituents get ahead of the current backlog, Davids’ office will host an event later today to assist Kansans in applying for a new passport or resolving issues with an ongoing application.

“Over the past few months, our offices on both sides of the state line have been inundated with requests from constituents experiencing delays in new or renewed passport applications. Today, we write to request an explanation of the root cause of these delays and an updated timeline for when folks in our districts should expect processing rates to return to pre-pandemic levels,” Davids and Cleaver wrote.

Current passport application requests have increased by 40 percent when compared to last year, and it can take up to four months for the requests to be processed. The DOS previously launched an online passport renewal pilot program to expedite the process, but on March 8, 2023, shut it down after experiencing systematic roadblocks. Also, Davids and Cleaver supported the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023, which required a study of areas throughout the United States with a high demand for passports, but where in-person offices are many miles away. In the letter, they asked for an update on this review.

“We understand that high demand has put enormous pressure on the agency’s ability to process applications more efficiently. But with demand remaining high, actions must be taken to improve wait times and solve processing issues,” Davids and Cleavercontinued.

Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below.

The Honorable Rena Bitter

Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs

Bureau of Consular Affairs

U.S. Department of State

2201 C St NW

Washington, D.C. 20520

Dear Assistant Secretary Bitter,

Over the past few months, our offices on both sides of the state line have been inundated with requests from constituents experiencing delays in new or renewed passport applications. Today, we write to request an explanation of the root cause of these delays and an updated timeline for when folks in our districts should expect processing rates to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Secretary Blinken has testified that the Department of State’s volume of passport requests is 30-40 percent above last year’s volume, but we have yet to see sufficient solutions to address the processing backlog. Consequentially, these delays are likely to persist, forcing our constituents to pay extra for expedited approvals or renewals just days before their planned travel.

These nationwide delays are especially challenging for our communities in the Kansas City metro region due to the long distance to the nearest passport agency in Hot Springs, Arkansas – a seven-hour drive away. When a constituent is unable to renew a passport through traditional means and needs it urgently issued, sometimes their only option is traveling to a passport agency. Yet, even for the few individuals who are able to make this journey, these agencies can have limited appointment availability.

We understand that high demand has put enormous pressure on the agency’s ability to process applications more efficiently. But with demand remaining high, actions must be taken to improve wait times and solve processing issues. We respectfully request answers to the following inquiries:

What steps has the agency taken to hire additional staff and what workforce challenges is the agency facing?

The President’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2024 requested $163 million for the Department of State to improve the delivery of passport services through an online portal; but the most recent online renewal service had to be paused due to technical issues. What is the current status of adjustments to the online renewal service? What is the timeline for bringing the service back online?

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2023 requires a review of the geographic diversity of passport agencies to identify areas with high demand and no in-person access. A passport agency in the Kansas City metro region would be enormously beneficial to our constituents. What is the status of this review?

Does the Bureau for Consular Affairs have plans to open new passport agencies? How will the review of the passport agencies’ geographic diversity impact these plans?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-bipartisan-budget-agreement-avoid-default-economic,"Davids Statement on Bipartisan Budget Agreement to Avoid Default, Economic Catastrophe",2023-05-31,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids released the following statement after voting to support the bipartisan agreement to avoid default:

“Today I voted for a bipartisan agreement to prevent default and save our economy from potential catastrophe. This deal is not perfect, but compromise from both sides was necessary to reach a final agreement. It accomplishes the core priorities I pushed for: we agreed to pay our bills, we avoided cuts to Social Security, Medicare and veterans’ benefits, and we agreed to move onto a bipartisan path to address our nation's budgetary challenges without holding our economy hostage.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-helps-launch-summer-youth-mental-health-programming-johnson-county,Davids Helps Launch Summer Youth Mental Health Programming in Johnson County,2023-05-30,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"MISSION, KS - Today, Representative Sharice Davids visited Tyler’s House KC, a local organization promoting emotional wellness among teens in the Kansas City metro area, to help kick-off their summer mental health programming. During the visit, which took place during National Mental Health Awareness Month, Davids met with program leadership and participated in activities that will be used throughout the summer to empower young people to live safe, healthy lives.

“Mental health is a growing concern for families and communities across the country. That’s why I’m thankful for local organizations like Tyler’s House KC, the Johnson County Mental Health Center, and Zero Reasons Why who are supporting our youth during some of the most emotionally formative years of their lives,” said Davids. “This Mental Health Month, and every month, I encourage folks to check in on your families, neighbors, and friends. I will do the same.”

“Today, we explored mental health coping mechanisms through art and spoke with Representative Davids about her experiences,” said Ava Shropshire, Zero Reasons Why teen council member. “My involvement with Zero Reasons Why means so much to me because I’m able to become a tool for so many teens in the community. I’m surrounded by teens who are passionate about mental health, and I get to do awesome things like speak to leaders such as Rep. Davids about what matters to me and what I’m seeing in my community.

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Rep. Sharice Davids participates in an art project at Tyler’s House KC.

Tyler’s House KC was founded to provide a safe after school space for Northeast Johnson County students. Now, as the school year has ended, they are pivoting to summer mental wellness programing developed around the creative arts. During Davids’ visit today, she joined local youth for an art project and a yoga class taught by instructors from YogaSix Olathe. Mo-Kan Pet Partners, a non-profit focused on training service animals to visit hospitals, nursing homes, and mental health programs, also attended.

Davids has focused on improving access to mental health care since taking office. She helped secure funding for mental health programs in Wyandotte and Johnson Counties, and has advocated for stronger mental health supports in schools. She also helped deliver grant funding to local police departments to hire more behavioral health specialists, including the Overland Park Police Department’s Crisis Action Team. She also introduced bipartisan legislation to improve opioid misuse prevention among student athletes and additional legislation to improve mental health supports for at-risk LGBTQ+ youth.

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Rep. Davids joins Tyler’s House KC to help launch their summer mental wellness programming.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-votes-bipartisan-legislation-combat-fentanyl-epidemic-0,Davids Votes for Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Fentanyl Epidemic,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids voted for bipartisan legislation that would restrict access to fentanyl and provide greater resources to local law enforcement to combat its use in Kansas. The HALT Fentanyl Actwould permanently place all fentanyl-related substances into a schedule I class, labeling the drug with a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical value. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of the bill.

“Fentanyl is devastating communities in Kansas and across the nation, and we must do more to protect folks at home from this deadly drug,” said Davids. “After hearing from local law enforcement officials and health care workers on the challenges they face, categorizing fentanyl as a Schedule I substance will give them more resources to combat this public health emergency and save lives. I’m glad the House came together in a bipartisan fashion to keep Kansans safe.”

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) issued a temporary order in February 2018 to categorize fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. Since then, Congress has extended this classification until December 31, 2024. The bipartisan legislation that passed the House today would make this classification permanent, giving law enforcement increased authority to seize the drug and making it unlawful to manufacture, distribute, import, or export fentanyl-related substances.

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Rep. Sharice Davids with local law enforcement officers during her first fentanyl summit.

Last year, Davids met with Libby Davis, a Johnson County resident, whose son passed away after taking a counterfeit pill that was unknowingly laced with fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine and is increasingly found in fake prescription pills such as Vicodin, OxyContin, or hydrocodone. Following their meeting, Davids co-sponsored and helped pass legislation through the House that creates a public awareness campaign about synthetic opioids through the Department of Health and Human Services.

Davids, a member of the bipartisan Fentanyl Prevention Caucus, has been a vocal advocate around fentanyl and opioid death prevention. She hosted multiple summits with law enforcement and health care workers on combatting the fentanyl epidemic and has taken a number of legislative actions based on the specific needs of the Kansas Third District, including:

Joining a bipartisan group of lawmakers to request funding for new handheld mass spectrometry trace level chemical detection devices at domestic ports.

Urging the FDA to take up expert recommendations and make Narcan, a common naloxone nasal spray, available without a prescription—which they did earlier this year.

Hosting a Facebook Live conversation with Blue Valley School District and Johnson County Mental Health Center about opioid use in schools.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/during-police-week-davids-takes-action-support-kansas-law-enforcement-reduce,"During Police Week, Davids Takes Action to Support Kansas Law Enforcement, Reduce Gun Violence",2023-05-19,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, during National Police Week, Representative Sharice Davids took official action to boost resources for local law enforcement departments, reduce gun violence in Kansas, and support individual officers. Davids' decision to support the public safety package comes after a discussion earlier this week with police chiefs and sheriffs from Kansas' Third District, who shared their opinions on the legislation.

The package of eight bills includes bipartisan legislation to improve care for officers coping with job-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eliminate backlogs of untested DNA samples, and crack down and schedule xylazine, the highly dangerous sedative causing fatal overdoses nationwide. It also strengthens background check requirements for those handling firearms.

""Kansas law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities, but are often working with limited budget and without the necessary equipment and training. Today, I'm working to fix that by supporting legislation that ensures our officers can do their jobs to the best of their ability,"" said Davids. ""Whether it's National Police Week or any other week, I'll continue supporting Kansas law enforcement so folks in Kansas can feel safe and secure in their community.""

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Watch Rep. Sharice Davids speak during National Police Week here.

Davids is supporting a package of public safety legislation that would:

Boost Resources for Local Law Enforcement

Debbie Smith Act of 2023

Reauthorizes the Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Grant Program that helps local and state crime labs eliminate backlogs of untested DNA samples.

Combating Illicit Xylazine Act

Prohibits the illicit use and distribution of the drug xylazine, which is commonly combined with fentanyl and has been found in a growing number of overdose deaths.

EAGLE Act

Directs the Attorney General to establish a grant program to provide for the qualified accreditation and re-certification of local law enforcement agencies.

Reduce Gun Violence

Enhanced Background Checks Act of 2023

Strengthens background check procedures before a Federal firearms licensee may transfer a firearm to a person who is not such a licensee.

Extreme Risk Protection Order Expansion Act of 2023

Helps state and local law enforcement implement critical intervention policies in extreme risk situations where individuals pose a threat to themselves or others.

EAGLES Act of 2023

Expands the Department of Homeland Security's National Threat Assessment Center to better identify and interdict potential perpetrators of mass shootings.

Support Individual Law Enforcement Officers

Supporting Women COPS Act of 2023

Establishes a Task Force on Women in Law Enforcement to study and develop national hiring standards for law enforcement officers.

Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2023

Increases access to treatment or preventative care for public safety officers coping with job-related PTSD.

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Rep. Sharice Davids with a local police officer at Johnson County Community College.

Since being sworn in, Davids has worked to provide Kansas law enforcement officers with the tools needed to keep communities safe. She secured funding for the Olathe Police Department's Mobile Command Unit and announced federal resources to hire additional law enforcement in Wyandotte County and improve mental health services in Overland Park. She previously voted for historic, bipartisan gun violence prevention legislation to keep Kansans safe and a bill giving officers access to disability benefits for job-related PTSD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/mother-s-day-davids-reintroduces-maternal-health-package,"This Mother’s Day, Davids Reintroduces Maternal Health Package",2023-05-15,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids recognized Mother's Day by reintroducing legislation to address America's worsening maternal mortality crisis and reaffirming her support for increased research and attention on maternal health care. Davids' Data to Save Moms Act seeks to understand the root causes of this emergency by improving data collection on maternal mortality and morbidity.

The United States is the only industrialized country with an increasing maternal mortality rate, and the crisis is most severe for people of color. Black mothers are dying at 3 to 4 times the rate of their white counterparts, and Native Americans are more than twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. According to NurtureKC, this trend holds true for Kansas. Wyandotte County in particular has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the state at 83.5 deaths per 10,000 live births.

""The U.S. is falling desperately short on the issue of maternal health, and frankly, it is shameful—but we can't fix a problem we don't fully understand,"" said Davids. ""By listening to the physicians and mothers who are on the front lines of this crisis and improving our existing data collection methods, we can take informed action and ultimately save lives. I appreciate Representatives Underwood and Adams for continuing to fight for compassionate policy to save moms.""

""While we understand the stark disparities in maternal mortality that highlight Black mothers are dying at 3 to 4 times their white counterparts despite income, education, and early prenatal care, we also understand the data fails to highlight the strengths in Black communities and blames Black women for their poor outcomes,"" said Sharla Smith, Director of Birth Equity, Kansas Birth Equity Network. ""We must shift the Blame for poor health outcomes from Black women to system level accountability and be a part of the solution. KBEN aims to create equity centered approaches to reduce disparities while creating a safe space to have authentic conversations and celebrating Black parents.""

""We are committed to addressing the underlying root causes of maternal mortality and morbidity and applaud Senator Tina Smith and Representative Sharice Davids for introducing the Data to Save Moms Act, which will improve data collection to advance equitable responses to the ongoing maternal health crisis,"" said Stacey Y. Brayboy,Sr. Vice President, Public Policy & Government Affairs, March of Dimes. ""The staggering maternal mortality rates women, particularly for Black and Indigenous women of color, face in the nation is an unacceptable trend that must be addressed without further delay. We are pleased this bill will take important steps to ensure the voices of pregnant people inform an equitable response to the maternal mortality crisis through comprehensive data collection.""

In part, the Data to Save Moms Act focuses on Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs). These panels, consisting of various experts such as gynecologists, forensic pathologists, and community groups, operate in states and localities across the country to examine cases of death within a year of pregnancy. This legislation aims to improve their data collection and broaden the scope of maternal health research by:

Establishing a grant program to promote representative community engagement in MMRCs in states across the country.

Commissioning the first-ever comprehensive study to understand the scope of the Native American maternal health crisis.

Providing funding to establish the first Tribal MMRC.

Conducting a comprehensive review of maternal health data collection, emphasizing the importance of listening to the stories of pregnant people.

Investing in maternal health research at Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), and Asian American and Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AAPISIs).

Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced the Senate companion bill. The Data to Save Moms Act was introduced as part of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act, led by Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and Alma Adams (NC-12) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). This package of bills aims to comprehensively address every dimension of the maternal health crisis in America, including investing in research and data collection, growing the perinatal medical workforce, and improving health care for at-risk groups such as veterans and people of color.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-funding-lower-school-energy-costs-improve-health-kansas-city,"Davids Announces Funding to Lower School Energy Costs, Improve Health in Kansas City, Kansas",2023-05-12,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) awarded Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (KCKPS) $100,000 to lower energy costs, enhance indoor air quality, and improve student health. The Energy Champions Leading the Advancement of Sustainable Schools Prize (Energy CLASS Prize) was authorized by the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. KCKPS applied, with Davids' support, after receiving a letter from Davids' office calling for applications.

""Kansas students rely on healthy, clean learning environments to reach their full potential in the classroom,"" said Davids. ""Thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, schools across Wyandotte county can now develop energy efficiency plans to lower costs and improve physical infrastructure.""

""Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools deeply appreciates being awarded Phase 1 of the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy CLASS Prize,"" said Dr. Anna Stubblefield, Superintendent, Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools. ""This will impact over 22,000 students in Wyandotte County by freeing up funds for other critical educational needs, building student proficiencies to implement infrastructure upgrades, and developing institutional capacity to make long-term energy management a lasting feature of the community.""

The Energy CLASS Prize will provide KCKPS students and staff with an improved learning environment and jumpstart infrastructure improvements in all 49 KCKPS buildings. The projects will benefit all 2,174 students attending targeted buildings and will lower energy costs, freeing up funds for other needs. The award also includes up to 160 hours of energy management training and professional coaching for students and faculty.

Davids, a member of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was the only member of the Kansas delegation to vote for the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has allocated approximately $55.7 million to Kansas for clean energy, energy efficiency, and power. Additionally, Davids previously announced infrastructure law funding is available for electric and low-emission school buses in Kansas' Third District.

Background:

KCKPS serves over 22,000 students in the Kansas City metro area, 81.2 percent of whom experience economic hardships and 90.9 percent of whom live in underserved communities. The district currently has no full-time energy manager and has never undergone energy-related assessments or facility planning.

KCKPS' Energy Champion Team will include seven existing staff members from the district's Operations Department, who will provide oversight and advocate for a new energy paradigm for the district, as well as skilled trades foremen, who will help implement new knowledge and skills in the workplace.

The Energy CLASS Prize is a competitive award promoting energy management in school districts across America. 25 Local Education Agencies (LEAs) will each receive a $100,000 cash prize to establish, train, and support energy managers in their schools. Energy CLASS Prize funds have the potential to impact over 700,000 students, in 1,300 schools, across 19 states.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-announces-two-regional-universities-receive-prestigious-technological,Davids Announces Two Regional Universities Receive Prestigious Technological Innovation Award,2023-05-11,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced two regional universities, Kansas State University and the University of Missouri-Kansas City, have received U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Engines program awards. These awards will help transform the region into a hub for advanced research and manufacturing, using our world-class educational institutions to boost Kansas' STEM workforce amid a national surge in manufacturing jobs. Funding for the awards was authorized by the Davids-supported CHIPS and Science Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at increasing America's global competitiveness by making more goods at home. Davids also advocated for the Kansas City metro area to receive this award.

Regional universities receiving NSF Engines program awards include:

University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) – $999,878

UMKC will utilize this award to enhance semiconductor manufacturing and workforce through partnerships with Kansas and Missouri businesses. Semiconductors, or chips, are necessary components of many everyday items including cars, smartphones, and medical devices, but only 12 percent are currently manufactured domestically - down from 37 percent in the 1990s. With this funding, UMKC plans to create more than 6,000 local jobs in the microelectronics industry and contribute to the domestic microelectronics workforce, which has an estimated shortfall of 130,000 workers by 2029. Read Davids' letter of support for UMKC's application here.

Kansas State University (K-State) – $999,990

K-State will utilize this award to support the growing biosecurity and biomanufacturing sectors in Kansas through research, workforce development, and collaboration with the local biotech business community. The award will build on the KC Animal Health Corridor—the single largest concentration of animal health and nutrition companies in the world, running directly through Johnson County—to attract more investment in Kansas' agriculture and science industries.

""When our public universities, businesses, and local communities all work together, we create new opportunities for Kansans and build a stronger economy here at home and beyond,"" said Davids. ""Thanks to the manufacturing legislation that passed last year and the top-notch research happening at local universities, our region is on track to lead the country in innovation and discovery. I'm proud to have helped bring these funds home, which will improve our competitiveness with countries like China.""

""UMKC is proud to take the lead on behalf of the University of Missouri System on this exciting effort to create a new industrial base in our region focused on computer chips and other microelectronics,"" said Mauli Agrawal, Chancellor, University of Missouri-Kansas City. ""The potential for business formation and job creation is extraordinary, and we'll be working with partners throughout Missouri and Kansas to make it happen. We are especially thankful to Representative Davids who has been instrumental in creating a deeper understanding of the essence of the issues and needs surrounding this development.""

""We are very excited to be leading this project around biosecurity, biodefense, and biomanufacturing, areas poised for enormous growth in our State and region.,"" said Dr. David Rosowsky, Vice President for Research, Kansas State University. ""We are responding to these critical areas of national need and national security by investing in research and discovery, building partnerships with the private sector, creating pathways for commercialization, and committing to workforce development. The award of this NSF Engine recognizes the shared vision we have with our partners and allows us to take the next step in creating this bio-based ecosystem in the Great Plains.""

Davids has made increasing domestic manufacturing, workforce pathways, and research opportunities in Kansas' Third District a priority. Alongside Senator Jerry Moran, she helped negotiate and pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, major manufacturing and supply legislation, last year. Since then, several companies have announced major investments in Kansas manufacturing, including Panasonic Energy, Integra, and EMP Shield.

Background

The NSF's first-ever NSF Engines program awards went to 44 teams spanning universities, nonprofits, businesses, and other organizations located in regions that have not fully benefited from the technology boom of the past decades. Each awardee team will receive up to $1 million for two years. These NSF Engines development awards will help organizations create connections and develop their local innovation ecosystem within two years to prepare a strong proposal for becoming a future NSF Engine, where they will have the opportunity to receive up to $160 million.

The CHIPS and Science Act, which authorized the funding for these awards:

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

Creates 100,000 new, good-paying jobs nationwide – supporting local workforce development.

Ends America's dependence on foreign manufacturers – bringing critical semiconductor manufacturing back home.

Turbocharges American research and development – ensuring that the technologies of the future are made here at home.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-house-passed-partisan-immigration-legislation,Davids Statement on House-Passed Partisan Immigration Legislation,2023-05-11,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representative Sharice Davids released the following statement after Republicans in the House passed an extreme, partisan immigration proposal that would weaken the nation's border security by diverting law enforcement resources away from preventing drug trafficking and intercepting national security threats to detaining asylum seekers and criminalizing Dreamers.

""The extreme proposals put forth by House Republicans would cut border agents and decimate our agricultural workforce at a time when we need to be increasing both—especially if we want to stop the flow of illegal fentanyl and improve labor shortages. Frankly, it is not a real solution to the challenges we are seeing at our borders. Kansans expect Congress to work together, not along party lines, to fix our broken immigration system. I am ready to work with both Republicans and Democrats on a bipartisan, comprehensive immigration plan that actually secures our border, treats children and families humanely, and addresses the fentanyl crisis—this is not it.""

Background:

Earlier this week, Davids urged the Biden Administration to work across the aisle to help pass a comprehensive immigration reform bill, saying ""we need a comprehensive and bipartisan solution that is smart, humane, and true to our country's values. That must include securing and protecting our borders along with a roadmap to citizenship, especially for people who have served in our military and Dreamers.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-davids-calls-biden-administration-work-republicans-and-democrats,ICYMI: Davids Calls on Biden Administration to Work with Republicans and Democrats on Immigration Reform,2023-05-09,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Representative Sharice Davids urged the Biden Administration to work across the aisle to help pass a comprehensive immigration reform bill. More than one year ago, Davids said the Title 42 public health order should remain until a bipartisan plan was reached. Now that the Covid-19 national emergency is ending, the Administration will terminate the order this Thursday, May 11, without a long-term solution in place.

In March 2022, the Biden Administration warned of increased migration flows immediately following the end of Title 42. Yet, in the last year, the Administration has taken insufficient action to find a comprehensive, bipartisan solution. Now, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is preparing for as many as 10,000 migrants to cross the southern border each day after the order ends. This would almost double the daily average from this past March.

Read more on Davids' push for the Biden Administration to work with both parties on immigration reform:

Fox News: ""House Democrat demands Mayorkas, Biden work with GOP on border plan after Title 42 ends""

""A member of Congress from President Biden's own party is demanding that he and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas join Republicans at the negotiating table to find a bipartisan solution on immigration as the government's Title 42 expulsion policy comes to an end.

Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kan., warned that the expected onslaught of people trying to cross the border illegally after Title 42 ends could exacerbate the ""humanitarian and refugee crisis"" if nothing is done to mitigate it.

""As the President has decided to lift the [Title 42] order this week, we now face a doubling of illegal crossings at our southern border by some estimates, exacerbating the current humanitarian and refugee crisis,"" Davids wrote in a letter addressed to Mayorkas.

[…]

Her letter said any plan to help solve the issues at the southern border would have to have the support of both the Democrat-controlled Senate and the Republican-held House. Davids pointed out it will be a top issue in her chamber soon, as the GOP weighs its comprehensive immigration and border bill.

[…]

She called for a plan that would both secure the border and provide a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients already in the U.S. and people who served in the Armed Forces.

[…]

Davids previously sounded the alarm on the border crisis in April of last year, when the Biden administration had earlier moved to lift Title 42. The policy gives border agents vast authority to turn migrants away on contact in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.

[…]

The expected end of the policy this week has forced federal officials to scramble to deal with the increase to what Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) says is already an average of 2,000 border crossings a day for the last two weeks, in the McAllen, Texas, area alone.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-pushes-biden-administration-recommit-bipartisan-immigration-reform,Davids Pushes Biden Administration to Recommit to Bipartisan Immigration Reform,2023-05-08,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, in a letter to United States Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Representative Sharice Davids urged the Biden Administration to work across the aisle in determining a comprehensive immigration plan, as Congress will debate the issue in the coming weeks. More than one year ago, Davids said the Title 42 public health order should remain in place until a bipartisan plan was reached. Now that the Covid-19 national emergency is ending, the Administration will unilaterally terminate the order this Thursday, May 11, without a long-term solution in place.

""As the President has decided to lift [Title 42] this week, we now face a doubling of illegal crossings at our southern border by some estimates, exacerbating the current humanitarian and refugee crisis,"" wrote Davids. ""U.S. House Republicans plan to initiate debate about immigration reform in the coming weeks. I urge you and the White House to join me in engaging in these conversations about what the landscape for immigration reform in our country should look like.""

""We must make clear to the American people that we are taking this challenge seriously and are ready to find solutions. You have had a year to engage prior to the lifting of Title 42, and I hope that you and the President both recommit to working with Congress to achieve real results,"" Davids continued.

In March 2022, the Biden Administration warned of increased migration flows immediately following the end of Title 42, but in the last year, the Administration has taken no action to find a comprehensive, bipartisan solution. Now, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is preparing for as many as 10,000 migrants to cross the southern border each day after the order ends, which would almost double the daily average from this past March.

While the Administration has rolled out temporary solutions to combat the influx, today, Davids is repeating her call for the Administration to work with Congressional Republicans and Democrats to achieve a long-term solution to fix our country's broken immigration system.

Full text of the letter can be found HERE and below.

The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas

Secretary of Homeland Security

Washington, DC 20528

Secretary Mayorkas,

More than a year ago, I expressed my reservations about the Biden Administration's lifting of the Title 42 public health order, stating at the time ""I'd like to see a more comprehensive plan, ideally with bipartisan support, before we lift the restriction.""

As the President has decided to lift the order this week, we now face a doubling of illegal crossings at our southern border by some estimates, exacerbating the current humanitarian and refugee crisis. While you have presented a list of ways you plan to address the surge of migration, some of which I agree with, we still have not reached a comprehensive, long-term plan with bipartisan support.

U.S. House Republicans plan to initiate debate about immigration reform in the coming weeks. I urge you and the White House to join me in engaging in these conversations about what the landscape for immigration reform in our country should look like.

Ultimately, we need a comprehensive and bipartisan solution that is smart, humane, and true to our country's values. That must include securing and protecting our borders along with a roadmap to citizenship, especially for people who have served in our military and Dreamers.

As Congress considers immigration reform in the coming weeks, we must make clear to the American people that we are taking this challenge seriously and are ready to find solutions. You have had a year to engage prior to the lifting of Title 42, and I hope that you and the President both recommit to working with Congress to achieve real results.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Sharice L. Davids

Member of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z
https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-celebrates-national-small-business-week-shawnee-business-owners,Davids Celebrates National Small Business Week with Shawnee Business Owners,2023-05-02,2023,2023-05,Democrat,House,KS,Sharice Davids,D000629,davids.house.gov,davids,https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SHAWNEE, KS– Today, Representative Sharice Davids held a ""Main Street Stroll"" in Downtown Shawnee to celebrate National Small Business Week, visiting four small businesses and hosting the owners for a roundtable discussion. During the roundtable, they discussed current challenges facing Kansas small business owners, including workforce issues, access to capital, and inflationary pressures.

Businesses that participated in today's stroll include McLain's Market, J.C. Barbershop, Transport Brewery, and Aztec Shawnee Theater. Representatives from additional local businesses, including Complete Construction Service, KS Estate & Elder Law, and Calkins Electric Supply, participated in the roundtable discussion.

""Kansas small businesses are often at the heart of our communities, but they've had a tough few years recovering from the pandemic and dealing with higher costs on goods and materials,"" said Davids. ""Visiting with and learning from some of our fantastic local business owners today was incredibly insightful. As I told them - whether it's National Small Business Week or not, I'm going to stand up for their businesses through my role on the House Small Business Committee and ensure they can support our economy, their families, and their employees.""

Rep. Sharice Davids chatting with JC Barbershop management and a local customer, Brad.

""We had Sharice Davids come by McLaine's today where we showed her around and talked about how she can help us in Congress, with the Small Business Association, to figure out some of the unemployment and rising cost issues associated with running a business,"" said Jeff Hirleman, McLaine's Market. ""I didn't expect anyone would ever come here from Congress, so it was awesome to see her and meet her.""

Rep. Sharice Davids visiting McLaine's Market in Shawnee during her ""Main Street Stroll.""

""The local business community is the pillar of support for the residents of our community,"" said Michael K. McVey, Transport Brewery. ""It not only provides most jobs, but also provides the goods and services our community relies upon to function. The recognition of this status is appreciated.""

Rep. Sharice Davids visiting Transport Brewery in Shawnee during National Small Business Week.

""Small business not only contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and paying taxes, it also gives members of the community a sense of pride,"" said Jeff E. Calkins, Aztec Shawnee Theatre and Calkins Electric. ""There are plenty of small towns, but the addition of small business makes these small towns into strong and proud communities. It was always our goal to help build an even stronger community here in Downtown Shawnee.""

During her ""Main Street Stroll,"" Rep. Sharice Davids chats with Shawnee business owners at the Aztec Theatre.

""Small business is the heart of most communities and Shawnee is no exception,"" said Kristen Shelley-Chapin, JD. ""Friends and neighbors don't meet at big box stores, but they do meet for coffee at McClains, the local bakery, or for lunch at Pegah's or drinks at Transport Brewery. I feel connected and cared for I walk into a business like Donovan's Service and am greeted by name. The connections that are built in small businesses create community and downtown Shawnee and beyond are thriving because of it.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z