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://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-secures-more-91-million-local-projects-across-mo-05-final,Rep. Cleaver Secures More Than $91 Million for Local Projects Across MO-05 in Final Government Funding Package,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"December 23, 2022

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that he has successfully secured $91.85 million in Community Project Funding for local projects across the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri in the year-end government funding package. From infrastructure improvements to housing initiatives and job training programs, the funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs throughout Cleaver’s congressional district.

“After a long, hard fight to get this funding across the finish line, I’m proud to have helped secure more than $91 million in Community Project Funding for the Fifth District of Missouri, ensuring our communities have the resources necessary to meet the needs of Missouri families and workers,” said Congressman Cleaver. “From Kansas City to Independence; Grandview to Gladstone; and communities all across our congressional district, these investments will play a major role in creating good-paying jobs, boosting economic development, increasing public health and safety, and protecting the planet for future generations by combatting climate change.”

Rep. Cleaver championed funding for 15 projects that will directly benefit residents of Missouri’s 5th District, securing $39,250,000 in total—which ranks 27th out of the 344 Representatives who submitted Community Project Funding requests. These projects include:

$4,600,000 to the City of Grandview for improvements to Blue Ridge Boulevard, which connects two ends of Kansas City and is the main commercial corridor for the City of Grandview. The funding will be used to address safety improvements, including street resurfacing, an expansion of four lanes for traffic, miles of new sidewalk, a wide multi-use path, and all ADA-compliant intersections.

$4,000,000 to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) for Low and No Emission Buses and Support Infrastructure. As the KCATA and regional transit partners seek to further incorporate battery-electric buses into the RideKC network, which covers the urban and suburban regions of the bi-state Kansas City region, this funding will help afford replacement buses and support infrastructure necessary for low and no emission buses.

$4,000,000 to the Kansas City, Missouri Public Works Department to create an 18thStreet Pedestrian Plaza. The federal dollars will be used for the creation of a Pedestrian Mall on 18th Street between The Paseo Boulevard and Woodland Avenue near the Historic 18th & Vine Entertainment District. The Pedestrian Mall will be a flexible, multi-purpose assembly area that will allow for a safe and pedestrian-friendly environment for farmers’ markets, festivals, outdoor concerts, and a general congregations area for the district residents when these events are not active.

$4,000,000 to Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation Department for a Bruce R. Watkins Connector Community Park Project. This project will create recreational opportunities for the neighborhoods that were fractured by the Bruce R. Watkins Highway Project, which bisects this area North and South, and the Brush Creek Flood Control Project, which bisects this area East and West. The planned improvements will remove some of the barriers caused by these projects, allowing residents to fully access and utilize the park from adjacent neighborhoods. Additionally, the planned improvements will add amenities that will attract more people to the area.

$4,000,000 to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce for a Minority Chamber of Commerce Development Center. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce will be co-located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, while jointly serving an array of minority businesses throughout the region. This joint partnership will be the first of its kind nationwide as two of the largest minority chambers unite in their missions to advance business development, workforce development, and leadership development for the betterment of people of color throughout the Fifth District of Missouri.

$4,000,000 to the Urban Neighborhood Initiative to support a housing initiative intended to build community and unlock the path to homeownership. The pilot program will provide 100 quality, affordable homes to families in underserved communities under a financing structure that promotes resident wealth accumulation through ultimate homeownership.

$3,000,000 to the City of Independence for the Independence Historic Square Streetscape. The funding will be used for street modifications, including one-way and two-way conversions, parallel parking, sidewalks, and ADA ramp improvements. Additionally, for the safety of the citizens and visitors, the streetlights will be improved as well as the addition of bicycle and pedestrian facilities and amenities.

$3,000,000 to the Raytown Parks & Recreation Department for Raytown Parks renovation and redevelopment. The funding will address the demolition and redevelopment needs of two parks in Raytown, Missouri. The Super Splash Park closed in the fall of 2016, but the remaining facilities must be demolished to allow for redevelopment projects. The Kenagy Park pond is a part of the Raytown Storm Water system to catch and hold water in major rain conditions. The dam and bank of the pond is eroding, making hazardous conditions for park patrons. The Raytown Parks Department will utilize the federal funding to install ADA-compliant restroom facilities and access trails as part of the redevelopment plan.

$3,000,000 to the City of Gladstone for an HVAC replacement at the Gladstone Community Center/Natatorium. The funding will be used to replace two indoor air quality units serving the natatorium space. Since 2008, the Gladstone Community Center/Natatorium has served as the swimming arena for the North Kansas City School District and the site for the District’s 3rd-grade water safety/learn to swim project. Indoor air quality is critical to the facility to protect the participants and spectators.

$2,000,000 to the Digital Storytelling Center of Kansas City for the KC IMAGINE project. The funding will be used to restore this historic studio for members of the public and provide enrichment for the surrounding neighborhood. This facility will become a center for digital media training, job creation, and entrepreneurship serving low-income people in the immediate community and the KC metro.

$1,000,000 to MRIGlobal for an expansion of their biorepository. The funding will expand laboratory capabilities and resources to advance research and development in new and investigational drugs, as well as new technologies in medical treatments. This project will increase the number of high-paying jobs and services and continue to support Kansas City’s science, technology, engineering, and math education programs and workforce development.

$750,000 to Alphapointe for the Building Equitable Access to Community Opportunities Now (BEACON) Project. The funding will be used for the expansion of Alphapointe’s current building as well as the creation of a new, nearby facility to provide for the continued rehabilitation and training needs of disabled job seekers and offer new health and child care services to the surrounding, underserved community.

$750,000 to reStart Inc. for the Thriving Neighborhoods through Cottage Communities Project. Cottage Communities provide affordable single-family housing for low- and extremely low-income households to prevent and end homelessness, ultimately helping to strengthen neighborhoods throughout Kansas City.

$750,000 to the Full Employment Council for a Career Technology Academy. The funding will help provide training that leads to good-paying careers in (1) Providing housing weatherization/rehabilitation services; (2) rehabilitating, weatherizing, and detoxifying housing for low- and moderate-income families; and (3) information technology, advanced manufacturing, warehouse/distribution or other occupations through classroom training, on the job training, apprenticeship training, or combinations thereof based on the career aspirations of the individual. The Career Technology Academy will enable low- and moderate-income families to earn higher incomes through training and support, help more Missourians live in energy efficient housing, and ensure safer and more sanitary housing in Kansas City.

$400,000 to SAVE, Inc. for Pride Haven. Pride Haven helps ensure homeless LGBTQ+ youth can access safe, welcoming, and accepting drop-in and overnight shelter. Youth served are 18-24 years old and find a welcoming, supportive environment as well as case management, connection to community resources, shower and laundry facilities, computer access, a safe place to sleep, and healthy meals.

Additional projects that were championed by Senator Blunt and supported by Rep. Cleaver that were included in the year-end government spending bill include:

$28,600,000 to the Missouri Department of Transportation for the South Loop Link Project. The project will install a deck over a four-block section of Interstate 670 to create an enhanced green mobility hub, enabling multimodal transportation options, regional job access, green and healthy living space, private development, and climate resiliency.

$10,000,000 to the University of Missouri-Kansas City for facility upgrades and equipment. The funding will enable construction and additional equipment for schools of Medicine and Dentistry at UMKC.

$8,000,000 to Kansas City University for facility improvements and equipment. The funding will go toward improvements to facilities and additional equipment for a Center of Excellence to improve population health through its health professions programs.

$2,000,000 to Metropolitan Community College for facility and equipment upgrades. The funding will allow for equipment and construction of the Penn Valley Campus Health Science Center.

$2,000,000 to Swope Health for facility improvements and equipment. The investment will allow for construction and equipment for the PACE building at Swope Health.

$2,000,000 to Saline County for Clean Water Improvements near I-70 and Highway 65 Interchange. The funding will pay to install an upgraded sewer system to ensure clean drinking water for residents of Saline County.

The Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package also includes reforms to the Electoral Count Act to protect our democracy; critical investments to combat homelessness and create affordable housing; increased funding for veterans’ medical care and additional benefits for military families; boosts the maximum Pell Grant by $500; makes the Summer EBT Program permanent; and more. Taken together, the funding for Missouri’s Fifth District and the additional investments for critical government programs will continue to support our nation’s economic recovery, the workers and families who fuel it, and communities across Missouri.

The year-end government funding package was passed by the House of Representatives, with Rep. Cleaver’s support, and the United States Senate. The bill will now go to President Biden to be signed into law.

Official text of the government funding package is available here.

A detailed summary of the bill is available here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congress-passes-rep-cleavers-legislation-reauthorize-freedoms-frontier,Congress Passes Rep. Cleaver’s Legislation to Reauthorize the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed S. 1942, the National Heritage Area Act (NHAA), to support National Heritage Areas across the country. Included in the legislation was Rep. Cleaver’s Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area Reauthorization Act, which reauthorizes the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) for another 15 years. The NHAA also establishes standard criteria for the funding, management and designation of National Heritage Areas throughout the United States and sets an annual authorization of $1 million for all National Heritage Areas, including the FFNHA.

“For more than 15 years, Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area has helped tell the full story of our regional history while supporting local economies by bringing tourists to museums and historical sites throughout the area,” said Congressman Cleaver. “With passage of the National Heritage Area Act, I’m thrilled that we will be able to preserve these invaluable assets, boost tourism and stimulate economic activity in communities across Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas, and continue to enlighten the next generation about our shared history.”

“Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area brings tourists interested in our Civil War history to the communities up and down the Kansas – Missouri border,” said Lucinda Adams, Freedom’s Frontier Executive Director. “This supports local economies as the tourists eat at restaurants, purchase gas, and stay in our hotels—bringing the benefits of tourism alongside our historical importance as one of the birthplaces of the Civil War.”

Established in 2006, the FFNHA is one of 55 National Heritage Areas throughout the United States. FFNHA tells the stories and builds awareness of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas’ past, present, and future, including the Kansas-Missouri border war, the Civil War, and the settlement of the western frontier and rural America. The FFNHA supports and promotes roughly 323 partners, including historic sites, museums, historical societies, libraries, and other cultural-heritage tourism destinations in 41 counties across the Missouri-Kansas border. Some notable FFNHA partners in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri include the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Truman Presidential Library, American Jazz Museum, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and more.

In September 2021, Rep. Cleaver joined Reps. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO) and Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO) to introduce the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area Reauthorization Act to preserve the FFNHA as a National Heritage Area. Following passage by the House of Representatives and the United States Senate, the NHAA will now go to President Biden to be signed into law, ensuring the FFNHA can continue to serve communities across the region for years to come.

Official text of the NHAA is available here.

Official text of Rep. Cleaver’s Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area Reauthorization Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-modernization-committee-release-final-report,"Rep. Cleaver, Modernization Committee Release Final Report",2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, following a four-year effort to increase the functionality, efficiency, and effectiveness of Congress, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress (Modernization Committee) released their final report, which includes more than 200 bipartisan recommendations to improve the institution.

“When Democrats re-took the House majority in 2019, one of our first actions was to install the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress to find ways in which we could make the People’s House work more efficiently and effectively for the American people,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I am grateful to my Democratic colleagues for entrusting me to sit on this committee for two terms, where I took their confidence in my civility and ability to work across the aisle to improve this institution extremely seriously. Four years and more than 200 bipartisan recommendations later, I am incredibly proud of not only the work we’ve accomplished, but the example we’ve set: that Democrats and Republicans can engage in respectful debate, seek common ground, and come together to produce meaningful reforms that will benefit our constituents and the lawmaking process. As the Modernization Committee comes to a close, I want to thank Chairman Kilmer for his leadership, my colleagues on the committee for their willingness to put people over politics, and the bipartisan committee staff for helping make the last four years a success.”

Over the past four years, the Modernization Committee has passed more than 200 recommendations to improve the functionality of Congress, including items such as making the Office of Diversity and Inclusion permanent; promoting civility during New Member Orientation, improving access to congressional websites for individuals with disabilities; and more. Of the 202 bipartisan recommendations, 45 have been fully implemented and 87 have been partially implemented.

The Modernization Committee’s official final report is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-applauds-president-biden-using-american-rescue-plan-funding,Rep. Cleaver Applauds President Biden Using American Rescue Plan Funding to Shore Up Teamster Pension Funds,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) applauded the announcement from President Biden that he will use funding from the Cleaver-supported American Rescue Plan Act to shore up the Central States Pension Fund and protect the retirement benefits of more than 27,000 Missouri workers and retirees. Rep. Cleaver has long advocated for congressional intervention to protect the Central States Pension Fund, which supports more than 350,000 union retirees. He has held Town Halls with officials from the Department of Treasury, cosponsored and advocated strongly for the Butch Lewis Act, and supported the American Rescue Plan, which included $36 billion to address issues within the Central States Pension Fund.

“When President Biden was elected to the Presidency, he did so with the promise to focus his economic policies on American workers and working-class families, and today’s announcement, once again, makes good on his promise to create an economy that works for working people,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Because of this funding from the American Rescue Plan, tens of thousands of Missouri workers and retirees can rest a little easier tonight knowing that they will receive the full pension they have earned through their lifetime of hard work. After years of fighting for this result in Congress, the joyful and elated response I’ve received from labor leaders in Missouri has made it all worthwhile. I’m proud to have played a part in protecting these pensions, and I’ll continue doing everything I can in Congress to support Missouri workers.”

Congressman Cleaver has been working on behalf of retirees on this issue since 2015. In 2016, Cleaver held a Town Hall with officials from the Department of Treasury to address concerns and get answers for Missouri retirees. In 2017, Congressman Cleaver delivered a letter to President Trump calling on the former President to take immediate action on the pension crisis. Cleaver has been a cosponsor of the Butch Lewis Act since its introduction, and helped pass the bill in the House of Representatives in 2019. In 2021, Rep. Cleaver supported the inclusion of funding to protect pensions in the American Rescue Plan Act, which he then helped pass into law, making way for President Biden’s announcement today.

Without federal assistance, Teamster members could have seen their benefits reduced by an average of 60% starting within the next few years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-protect-marriage-equality-celebrates-passage-respect,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Protect Marriage Equality, Celebrates Passage of Respect for Marriage Act",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 8404, the Respect for Marriage Act, to codify protections for marriage equality into federal law. The Respect for Marriage Act will repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, protect marriage equality for federal purposes, and provide additional protections at the state level for interracial and LGBTQ+ marriages.

“As a pastor for more than 4 decades, I’ve been fortunate enough to officiate numerous weddings, where I have enjoyed a front row seat to the beautiful moment when two individuals make the decision to join together for life. In that moment, regardless of race or religion or sexual orientation, I see the extraordinary love that binds two people, two families, and an entire community together. Today, I am prodigiously proud to have helped pass the Respect for Marriage Act, ensuring that interracial and same-sex couples will not have to live in fear of the future and demonstrating to the entire world that the United States remains a beacon of freedom thanks to our commitment to equality and human rights. Love is love—and in the end, love always wins,” said Congressman Cleaver.

Following Justice Clarence Thomas’ suggestion that the Supreme Court should revisit the Obergefell decision after striking down the 50-year-old Roe v. Wade ruling, Rep. Cleaver and Democrats in Congress immediately began working to enshrine protections for marriage equality into federal law. The Respect for Marriage Act would do this by:

Repealing the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which was rendered inert by the Supreme Court’s marriage equality decisions but still remains in the U.S. code and could be revived if the Supreme Court overrules previous decisions as they did with the Dobbs ruling;

Protecting marriage equality for federal purposes by ensuring that people are considered married if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed; and

Providing additional protections at the state level by prohibiting any person acting under the color of state law from denying full faith and credit to an out of state marriage based on the sex, race, ethnicity, or national origin of the people in the marriage.

Official text of the Respect for Marriage Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-avert-rail-shutdown-provide-paid-sick-leave-rail,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Avert Rail Shutdown, Provide Paid Sick Leave to Rail Workers",2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of two resolutions that would avert a catastrophic rail shutdown and provide paid sick leave, a 24% pay raise, and other critical benefits to more than 100,000 freight railroad workers. The resolutions were passed by the House of Representatives with bipartisan support and will now go to the Senate to be taken up for a vote.

“For nearly two centuries, American rail workers helped forge the foundation that has allowed the United States to flourish and become the economic superpower we know today. It is because of these workers that our grocery store shelves remain full, businesses can ship their goods nationally, and American enterprise can continue to grow and thrive,” said Congressman Cleaver. “These individuals work day and night, through pandemics and personal sacrifice, to fulfill the duties expected of them—and in return they should expect the dignity of paid sick leave, fair wages, and proper benefits. Today, I was proud to join my Democratic colleagues to pass two resolutions that will avert a catastrophic rail shutdown while delivering a 24% pay raise, a $5,000 bonus, seven days of paid sick leave, and more to these essential workers.”

H.J.Res. 100 would adopt the Tentative Agreement that was reached in September between railroad companies and their labor unions, following months of tireless negotiating and efforts by President Biden, Secretary Walsh, and labor leaders. The agreement includes the 24 percent pay raise for rail workers, a $5,000 bonus over five years, and preserves critical health coverage and other safety requirements.

H.Con.Res. 119 would add an additional seven paid sick days to the Tentative Agreement, ensuring workers aren’t forced to choose between their health and their paycheck. According to a fact sheet prepared by the House Transportation Committee, the 7 Class I railroads could have paid for their workers to have 7 days of paid sick leave last year by spending just 6/10 of a penny for every dollar they reported in profit and shareholder returns in 2021.

“It is unfortunate that after three years of negotiations it has reached this point, but I believe these resolutions are a fair compromise that will keep our economic recovery on track and provide rail workers with common sense benefits that every worker deserves in the 21st century,” said Congressman Cleaver.

Official text of the resolutions is available here and here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-hud-assuming-responsibility-parade-park,Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on HUD Assuming Responsibility for Parade Park,2022-11-28,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the Department of Housing and Urban Development assumed responsibility for Parade Park.

“Today is a necessary step forward for the future of the residents of Parade Park, one of the oldest Black-owned housing cooperatives in the United States and an integral component of the 18th & Vine District in Kansas City. A number of unfortunate decisions have left the co-op in a state of deep despair, with over half the units vacant and many units in disrepair. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has now taken mortgagee-in-possession of Parade Park and installed a property management contractor to handle daily operations and ensure the health and safety of residents.

“It must be noted that this is the first step of many that will need to be taken, together, to save and revitalize this historic piece of Kansas City. In late July, I met with HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge in Washington, DC, where we discussed a number of options to rescue Parade Park and stabilize the property. She telephoned me on Friday to inform me that she and her staff had determined that HUD assuming responsibility and working with property ownership and the community was in the best interest of residents. In the very near future, the HUD management team will meet with residents to ensure that tenants are informed and part of the decision making process going forward.

“The Secretary has assured me the Department remains committed to improving the property in a way that will benefit residents and ensure our shared goal of preserving an important affordable housing asset for hardworking Missourians. HUD will immediately begin making a full assessment of the property to determine next steps, and the Secretary has asked me to be attentive to the fact that the Department will need additional dollars to restore the integrity of the development and make the repairs necessary for tenants to live in safe, quality housing. This will be a top priority for me in Congress and must be deemed equally important for the State and City as well.”

###

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-highlights-historic-investments-bipartisan-infrastructure,Rep. Cleaver Highlights Historic Investments from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law on One Year Anniversary of Bill’s Signing,2022-11-15,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, on the first anniversary of President Biden’s landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, otherwise known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), who was the only Representative from Missouri to support the law, highlighted the historic federal investments that are already creating good-paying jobs and strengthening communities across Missouri.

“At a time when our country is bitterly divided, the American people expect Congress to come together, seek common ground, and find a way to move the country forward. That’s exactly what we were able to do with President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law last year, and I remain perpetually proud to have voted for the landmark legislation—which has already delivered $3.6 billion for more than 150 infrastructure projects across Missouri,” said Congressman Cleaver. “These projects aren’t just helping to pave better roads, rebuild crumbling bridges, deliver clean drinking water, and expand access to public transit, they’re also creating good-paying jobs for working class Missourians across the state, helping to strengthen communities all over. As we continue to build on the extraordinary progress already achieved, I remain committed to working with the Biden Administration to ensure these historic investments reach communities in Missouri’s Fifth District as quickly as possible.”

Decades of underinvestment in critical infrastructure projects have left Missouri communities in urgent need of repair and modernization. According to a report from the American Society of Civil Engineers, Missouri’s infrastructure was given an overall grade of C-, including D+ for our roads, a C for our bridges, and a C- for our drinking water.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is already delivering historic investments and making progress to improve Missouri’s infrastructure, with more than $3.6 billion provided for a range of infrastructure improvements, including:

$2.8 billion for roads, bridges, roadway safety, and major projects;

$147 million for water infrastructure that will provide clean and safe drinking water;

$140 million for an expansion of public transportation options;

$106 million for infrastructure resilience, including $22.4 million for flood mitigation;

$54 million for airport improvements;

$36 million for ports and waterways to strengthen supply chains;

$35.7 million to create a network of EV chargers;

$21.8 million from the Clean School Bus Program; and more.

“Thanks to the President’s ability to find compromise and achieve consensus in Congress through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the 2020s are set to be an ‘infrastructure decade’ for Missouri and the rest of the United States,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As this legislation has proven, putting people over politics leads to effective policy—and I remain laser-focused on passing bipartisan legislation that will help lower costs, create good-paying jobs, and build safer communities throughout my congressional district.”

A full summary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s investments in Missouri is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-evans-applaud-hud-efforts-raise-awareness-deed-fraud,"Reps. Cleaver, Evans Applaud HUD Efforts to Raise Awareness of Deed Fraud During Fraud Awareness Month",2022-11-14,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – During Fraud Awareness Month and International Fraud Awareness Week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Dwight Evans (D-PA) applauded the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Inspector General for releasing a bulletin to raise awareness about deed fraud, including a hotline where Americans can report information about fraudulent schemes related to HUD supported housing. Fraud Awareness Month is a HUD-wide initiative that aims to educate and encourage communication about preventing fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement and to highlight the many resources available to help combat fraud.

“I’m pleased that the Biden Administration and HUD have heard our calls for additional focus on this incredibly burdensome scam being perpetrated against Americans in communities across the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “In honor of Fraud Awareness Month and International Fraud Awareness Week, I’m proud to stand with Representative Evans, Secretary Fudge, Inspector General Oliver Davis, and the Biden Administration to continue to raise awareness about these fraudulent schemes so that hardworking families can better protect themselves. As Congressman Evans and I work to build consensus on federal legislation that will crack down on scam artists and strengthen protections for homeowners, it’s important that the Administration continue to track data that will better inform Congress during the legislative process—and that’s why I want to highlight the hotline that Americans can call to report relevant information they may have.”

Congressman Evans said, “I welcome this action by the Biden administration, led by our former congressional colleague Secretary Fudge and Inspector General Davis. This has been a huge issue in Philadelphia. We also need action from the congressional side, which is why I’m co-leading the Good DEED Act with Congressman Cleaver. Tangled titles prevent families – including many African American families – from accumulating and transferring generational wealth, or even receiving help fixing up their homes.”

“One of my top priorities is to pursue all available remedies against bad actors who commit deed fraud and bring justice for people impacted by this fraud scheme,” said Housing and Urban Development Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis.

In September, following reports of deed fraud in Jackson County, MO, Congressman Cleaver and Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. sounded the alarm on deed fraud crimes being perpetrated against homeowners in the county in an effort to raise awareness and protect homeowners. Last month, Reps. Cleaver and Evans introduced the Good DEED Act, legislation that would establish the first federal definition of deed fraud, increase penalties for criminals, create a federal grant program to assist law enforcement and local government with tracking and combating the practice, and expand access to legal services for victims. Additionally, Congressman Cleaver held a roundtable discussion with County Executive White, members of the Kansas City Police Department, and victims of deed fraud from Missouri to highlight the dangers of these scams, how to report and remedy the situation if one has fallen victim, and what kind of legislation is needed locally, statewide, and federally to put an end to the practice.

The official bulletin on deed fraud from the Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General is available here.

Americans can report fraud schemes involving public housing or other HUD-funded government programs or benefits, by contacting the HUD OIG Hotline at 1-800-347-3735 or online here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-introduces-legislation-combat-price-gouging-during-crises,"Rep. Cleaver Introduces Legislation to Combat Price Gouging During Crises, Protect Missouri Families",2022-11-10,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) reintroduced legislation that would crack down on predatory price gouging during times of national crisis. The Disaster and Emergency Pricing Abuse Prevention Act would prohibit unconscionable price increases on essential goods and services, including the sale of fuel, medication, and other items, during or in anticipation of a natural disaster, pandemic, or state of emergency. With the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) currently limited in its authority to combat price gouging at the federal level, Rep. Cleaver’s bill would give the FTC additional tools and legal authority to cut down on exorbitant price increases on critical items, such as gasoline, when an emergency or disaster arises. Companion legislation has been introduced by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in the U.S. Senate.

“In recent years, we’ve watched Big Oil and greedy executives exploit the global pandemic and other times of crisis, such as natural disasters, to unnecessarily raise prices on consumers and pad their profits to record-breaking levels. It is way past time for Congress to stand up to the corporate greed that has helped drive up prices and fight for hardworking families that are being ripped off,” said Congressman Cleaver. “The Disaster and Emergency Pricing Abuse Prevention Act will give the FTC the tools and clear legal authority needed to go after corporations or nefarious actors who are trying to get rich off of Americans in crisis. To ensure our economy is one that works for working people, Congress must do more to protect consumers from corporate price gouging—and that’s what my legislation would do.”

The Disaster and Emergency Pricing Abuse Prevention Act would:

Prohibit selling, or offering for sale, essential goods and services at an unconscionably excessive price during or in anticipation of a natural disaster, pandemic or state of emergency;

Apply to goods and services that may be used to preserve, protect, or sustain the health, safety or welfare of members of the public from potential harms resulting from a natural disaster, a pandemic or the circumstances giving rise to a state of emergency;

Establish a national price gouging hotline for consumers to report nefarious actors;

Provide for potential civil penalties; and

Not preempt state price gouging laws.

“Right now, there is no federal law that explicitly prohibits price gouging—and we’re seeing an inadequate patchwork of state laws that leave families like those here in Missouri unprotected,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Not only would my legislation give the FTC the clear authority to crack down on this pernicious practice, but it would provide the tools needed to do so effectively and efficiently. I will continue to work with my colleagues in the House and Senate to protect consumers in Missouri, and that starts with passage of the Disaster and Emergency Pricing Abuse Prevention Act.”

Official text of the Disaster and Emergency Pricing Abuse Prevention Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-sewell-introduce-legislation-lower-cost-electric-vehicles,"Reps. Cleaver, Sewell Introduce Legislation to Lower Cost of Electric Vehicles",2022-11-04,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act, introduced legislation to ensure consumers can immediately and fully access tax credits provided under the Inflation Reduction Act that will lower the cost of purchasing electric vehicles (EVs). The legislation would delay the phase-in of the EV sourcing and manufacturing requirements necessary for credit eligibility from 2023 to 2026, giving American automakers the time they need to shore up their domestic supply chains while still offering full access to the tax credits to American consumers. These requirements were included in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which Rep. Cleaver supported and was signed into law by President Biden in August. Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA).

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

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

“The Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act will lower costs and provide consumers more options when purchasing an electric vehicle, while also supporting good-paying jobs across Georgia and our country,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I’m focused squarely on helping car buyers save money and helping car manufacturers who do business in our state thrive. That’s why I’m pleased to partner with Representatives Sewell and Cleaver to get this bill over the finish line.”

The Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act would delay the IRA’s phase-in period for automakers to follow specific sourcing and assembly requirements for their EVs in order for Americans to qualify for the federal tax credit to purchase a new vehicle. These requirements include:

Requiring EVs to be manufactured in North America;

Requiring EV batteries to be made domestically; and

Mandating that critical minerals used in battery production are only sourced domestically or from nations with whom America has a free trade agreement.

A vocal champion of strengthening domestic manufacturing, Rep. Cleaver was proud to support provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act that incentivize automakers to return manufacturing to American factories. However, to give American automakers additional time to meet these new “Made in America” requirements, and to ensure Missourians can immediately access the federal tax credits to lower the cost of EVs, the Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act would extend the phase-in period for such requirements until 2026.

Congressman Cleaver has been a long-time supporter of accelerating our nation’s transition to renewable energy and EVs, creating good-paying green manufacturing jobs, and cutting down on carbon emissions. In February, Rep. Cleaver announced that Missouri had secured nearly $15 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to build out an EV infrastructure network across the state. In July, Rep. Cleaver announced that he had secured $4 million in federal funding for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to purchase Low and No Emission Buses and support infrastructure as Kansas City continues to go green.

Official text of the Affordable Electric Vehicles for America Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-978-million-missouri-help-individuals-and,Rep. Cleaver Announces $97.8 Million for Missouri to Help Individuals and Families Lower Energy Costs This Winter,2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that Missouri was awarded $97.8 million in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The funding will go toward helping low-income individuals and families pay for home heating costs this winter, cover unpaid utility bills, and make cost-effective energy repairs to lower heating and cooling bills.

The total funding announced today comes from an additional $1 billion appropriated by Congress for LIHEAP to address rising energy costs, as well as $100 million appropriated for 2023 from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, both of which Congressman Cleaver proudly supported.

“Every year, LIHEAP serves millions of American households, helping to lower costs on heating, cooling, and weatherization services for hardworking families across the country. Today, I’m proud to announce that additional investments from President Biden and Democrats in Congress will enable this successful program to serve more households than ever as we seek to provide relief from higher than usual energy costs that have been driven up by Putin’s despicable war in Ukraine,” said Congressman Cleaver. “With this nearly $98 million in funding, more Missourians will be able to stay safe and warm throughout the upcoming winter months and at a reduced cost. That’s a major win in my book.”

Missourians interested in applying for energy assistance can visit energyhelp.us or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at: 1-866-674-6327. They can also find additional information and the application for LIHEAP assistance here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleavers-statement-passing-former-kansas-city-mayor-charles,Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Passing of Former Kansas City Mayor Charles Wheeler,2022-10-26,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the passing of former Kansas City Mayor Charles Wheeler.

“Charlie Wheeler was my dear friend, an important mentor, and the most visionary Mayor in the history of our great city. During my eight years as Mayor, I was blessed to have had the likes of Charlie Wheeler, Ike Davis, and Dick Berkley as guides through the best and worst of times—and our city was better off for it.

“Having both a J.D. and an M.D., Charlie very likely was the smartest Mayor in our city’s history. And when you mix that with his daring, you get a powerful combination of genius with imagination. That was Charlie Wheeler. I will miss my friend, and the city will miss his ingenuity. We all owe him heartfelt gratitude for his public service, and I pray that his memory will be a blessing for all that had the privilege to know him.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-introduces-legislation-bring-transparency-equal-opportunity,"Rep. Cleaver Introduces Legislation to Bring Transparency, Equal Opportunity to Management of College and University Endowments",2022-10-26,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) continued his push for greater accountability to diversity and inclusion in the trillion-dollar asset management industry with the introduction of the Endowment Transparency Act of 2022. Asset managers manage funds for others, such as individuals, organizations, and institutions, and invest college and university endowment assets which collectively total more than $821 billion. Responsive to Rep. Cleaver’s inquiry into the lack of diversity among college and university endowment managers in 2020, the Endowment Transparency Act would support efforts to ensure colleges and universities are providing opportunities to women and minority asset managers by mandating transparency and standardizing data collection. In a similar inquiry of endowments done by the Knight Foundation this year, only 16 of the 50 colleges and universities surveyed elected to disclose the percent of endowment assets managed by diverse-owned firms.

“After the Knight Foundation released a report showing that diverse-owned asset management firms manage only 1.4% of the $82 trillion asset management industry, I immediately began seeking ways in which Congress could hold actors accountable to opening doors for the numerous, high-performing firms headed by women and minority managers who have been historically excluded. Surveys have obtained important diversity data on the endowment managers of colleges and universities, who help manage hundreds of billions in endowment funds, and shed light on the variation in efforts to provide opportunity to diverse-owned firms,” said Rep. Cleaver. “While some institutions have been happy to share data on their efforts to do business with women and minority managers, others are unforthcoming or less than thrilled to make public their numbers. For that reason, and to push for greater opportunity in the American economic system, I introduced the Endowment Transparency Act to require publicly subsidized higher education institutions to report on this critically important issue.”

“Rep. Cleaver continues to be the congressional leader in the effort to improve diversity in the realm of endowment management,” said Robert Raben, Executive Director of the Diverse Asset Managers Initiative. “He pushed a critical mass of universities to release their numbers, but, regrettably, they all obfuscated, unwilling to tell the truth that with hundreds of billions of dollars of money to manage, they are only working with handfuls of Black, Latino, Asian American or women managers. With the introduction of this legislation, Rep Cleaver’s leadership demonstrates a stark contrast to these universities, whose charge of fostering academic excellence is, ostensibly, meant to be achieved with integrity.”

“We appreciate Congressman Cleaver’s bill. Many of these institutions enjoy certain public support including taxpayer subsidies and research dollars. Thus, it is appropriate to mandate the expansion of their manager universe to include diverse firms. Most importantly, it ensures they are truly picking some of the best managers, many that are currently ineligible for hire because of meaningless artificial barriers of entry,” said Gilbert Garcia, Diversity & Inclusion subcommittee Chair of the SEC’s Asset Management Advisory Committee (AMAC) and recent appointee to the Treasury Advisory Committee of Racial Justice.

“The National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP), the premier Association advocating for the full inclusion of minorities and women in the Financial Services industry, fully supports the ‘Endowment Transparency Act’ introduced by Congressman Cleaver, calling for the amendment of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require annual reporting on assets of higher education institutions. For years, the NASP organization has championed the reporting of the total assets of higher ed institutions by investment advisors in order to quantify the work that is being performed by minority and women-owned firms. The adoption of this legislation will go a long way in addressing the issues of the lack of business diversity in higher education,” said Ronald C. Parker, President and CEO, National Association of Securities Professionals.

“We at Ariel Investments applaud Congressman Emanuel Cleaver for his leadership to advance business diversity among colleges and universities. These anchor institutions are essential stewards of taxpayer funds as well as the trust and confidence of the communities they serve. They must do better when it comes to full-scale business diversity – not just supply chain diversity. Hiring minority owned professional services companies across sectors can support their range of operational needs. Black and Brown companies need both capital and customers to thrive. This legislation will help demonstrate through clear annual reporting whether Black and Brown companies are getting the opportunities they deserve. We hope it gains bipartisan support and Congress passes it before year end.” – Ariel Investments, LLC, founded by John W. Rogers, Jr.

“It is particularly important that the Congressman is mandating that this information become public and defining diversity at more than 50% diverse-owned. Presently, there are too many efforts to lower the threshold of a diverse firm’s definition to as low as 25% diverse-owned. This is a veiled attempt to move the goal post closer to inflate one’s diversity manager progress. Making the data publicly available is the only way to change past behavior,” said Ruby Munoz Dang, a 27-year industry veteran and senior partner of Garcia Hamilton, the largest Hispanic firm in the country.

In 2020, Reps. Cleaver and Joseph P. Kennedy, III surveyed the 25 colleges and universities with the largest endowments about their utilization of diverse-owned asset management firms. Every institution, except for the University of Notre Dame, provided at least some level of information on the data and practices used to ensure diversity and inclusion for the asset managers overseeing their enormous endowments. While some institutions, such as the University of California, track and disclosed investments with women- and minority-owned firms, others did not appear to have ever adopted policies or practices to address potential biases in the selection of asset managers.

Considering college and university endowments are subsidized by the federal government via tax exemptions in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)3, and the federal government’s interest in remedying the legacy of exclusion in the financial services industry, Rep. Cleaver introduced the Endowment Transparency Act of 2022 this week. The legislation would provide public transparency and accountability for diversity and inclusion in the management of more than $821 billion in assets from higher education endowments by:

Amending the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require information about investments with women- and minority-owned firms to be included in other data annually collected from colleges and universities;

Requiring the Minority Business Development Agency to publish a report, to be updated every two years, recommending legislative changes and best practices for substantially increasing the use of women- and minority-owned firms in higher education investment and bond transactions; and

Authorizing a conference, every five years, which shall convene institutions of higher education and investment advisors, firms, and consultants to develop professional networks and increase the visibility of business opportunities.

“In the year 2022, it is simply unacceptable that nearly 99% of assets controlled by the $82 trillion asset management industry—which influence where, when, and with what segments of the economy to invest—are overseen by White men, when we know that there are qualified women- and minority-owned firms that can fulfill these duties to the same, or even better, degree,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As colleges and universities tout their efforts to diversify at every level, from the student body to the faculty and staff, I believe they are a perfect place to encourage greater opportunity in this intractable industry—and the Endowment Transparency Act is an important step in that process.”

Official text of the Endowment Transparency Act is available here.

A fact sheet on the Endowment Transparency Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-cleaver-applauds-fhfa-announcement-it-will-eliminate-upfront,"Chairman Cleaver Applauds FHFA Announcement It Will Eliminate Upfront Fees for  First-time, Underserved Homebuyers",2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, applauded the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) announcement of targeted changes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s guarantee fee pricing, eliminating upfront fees for certain borrowers and affordable mortgage products. Lenders commonly convert upfront fees into higher interest rates on a mortgage. Last week, Chairman Cleaver delivered a letter (LINK) to FHFA Director Sandra L. Thompson calling on the agency to immediately reduce or eliminate upfront fees as interest rates continue to rise and impact first-time homebuyers, low-income borrowers, and underserved communities.

“I’m very pleased that FHFA Director Thompson has heeded my calls to eliminate unnecessarily costly upfront fees for borrowers that have historically been left behind and are already acutely feeling the pinch of rising interest rates from the Federal Reserve,” said Chairman Cleaver. “This action from the FHFA demonstrates President Biden’s firm commitment to promoting equitable access to affordable housing, and I applaud the President and Director Thompson for taking this important step that will result in savings for roughly 20 percent of borrowers of Fannie and Freddie’s recent mortgage acquisitions. Moving forward, as the Fed continues to grapple with global inflation in a way that makes borrowing more costly, we must continue to implement policies that ease the borrowing burden of working and middle-class Americans, ensuring they still have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream through homeownership.”

The FHFA announced today it will eliminate upfront fees for:

First-time homebuyers at or below 100 percent of area median income (AMI) in most of the United States and below 120 percent AMI in high-cost areas;

HomeReady and Home Possible loans (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac’s flagship affordable mortgage programs);

HFA Advantage and HFA Preferred loans; and

Single-family loans supporting the Duty to Serve program.

You can find the official letter from Chairman Cleaver to Director Thompson here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-cleaver-rep-evans-introduce-legislation-combat-deed-fraud,"Chairman Cleaver, Rep. Evans Introduce Legislation to Combat Deed Fraud, Protect Homeowners",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, along with Rep. Dwight Evans (D-PA), introduced H.R. 9192, the Good Documentation and Enforcement of Estate Deeds (Good DEED) Act. The Good DEED Act would establish the first federal definition of deed fraud, a fraudulent scheme in which criminals steal real property from their victims, and create a federal grant program to assist local law enforcement with tracking and combatting deed fraud and to support legal services for victims, strengthen protections for homeowners against fraudulent notarizations, increase penalties for criminals who participate in the practice, and require the FBI to include data on deed fraud in the Uniform Crime Reporting program.

“Following my announcement with Jackson County Executive White to alert Missourians of the dangers of deed fraud, we have heard from additional members of our community that have been impacted by this contemptible practice. Today, as we continue our efforts to raise awareness, I’m proud to introduce federal legislation that would help to crack down on these illicit scams and protect hardworking homeowners from either losing their home or their hard-earned paychecks on costly legal fees,” said Chairman Cleaver. “While this will not solve the problem overnight, the Good DEED Act is critical to understanding the scope of the problem nationally and an important step toward protecting law-abiding Americans from getting ensnared in one of these nefarious schemes.”

Congressman Dwight Evans (PA-03) said, “Philadelphia has a huge problem with tangled titles, all too often caused by deed fraud, so I’m proud to co-lead the Good DEED Act. Tangled titles prevent families – including many African American families – from accumulating and transferring generational wealth, or even receiving help fixing up their homes.”

“Bringing this crime to the forefront has empowered our residents to be informed, alert and proactive. Now it’s time to take prevention a step further,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The Good DEED Act legislation provides the framework to help combat this financially and emotionally demoralizing crime from happening in our community and makes available critical assistance to homeowners who unfortunately fall victim. I give my full support to Congressmen Cleaver and Evans on this thought-leading initiative and urge everyone remain vigilant about this dangerous scam.”

“The Good DEED Act brings federal attention to the widespread problem of ‘tangled title.’ Tangled title occurs when someone has ownership rights to a house, but the deed is not in the person’s name,” said Judy Berkman, Senior Counsel, Regional Housing Legal Services. “Many tangled title cases involve ‘heir’ property. In gentrifying neighborhoods, fraudsters ‘steal’ these properties by forging deeds and other legal documents. The Good DEED Act will provide successful grant applicants with funding to implement infrastructure improvements to prevent and prosecute deed fraud. It will also provide free legal services to income-eligible people to resolve their tangled title cases allowing them to have the benefits of home ownership and build wealth.”

“We know firsthand in Philadelphia the damage that deed fraud can do to families and their generational wealth, and we’re thrilled that the Good DEED Act would create a federal source of funding to support the fight against deed fraud nationwide,” said James P. Leonard, Commissioner of Records for the City of Philadelphia.

Last month, Chairman Cleaver and Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. sounded the alarm on scams being perpetrated against property owners in Jackson County, where forged, false and/or fraudulently induced deeds are recorded against properties in the County without the knowledge or consent of the owner. Included in the alert was information on how to identify if one has fallen victim to deed fraud and the steps Jackson County residents can take to protect themselves and/or receive assistance from local authorities. However, there are additional reports of deed fraud occurring throughout the United States.

The Good DEED Act would make critical reforms to combat deed fraud nationally by:

Establishing a $10 million annual grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund applications that assist in prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of deed fraud;

Mandating that States receiving funding amend State laws to require identifiable information of individuals notarizing and filing deeds, such as fingerprints, photographs, and/or video of filers;

Requiring HUD to report to Congress on activities funded under the grant program and to identify best practices in reducing deed fraud;

Establishing the first federal definition of deed fraud and directing the U.S. Sentencing Commission to promulgate guidelines or amend existing guidelines to provide sentencing enhancements for offenses involving deed fraud; and

Requiring the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to add a category for deed fraud to the Uniform Crime Reporting program.

“When Congress returns to session next month, I intend to push for quick action on the Good DEED Act so that we can immediately strengthen protections and begin tracking where and how these schemes are most frequently executed,” said Chairman Cleaver. “In the meantime, I highly encourage Missouri and other states to begin working on updating their own laws to eradicate these scams before they become even more prevalent and harmful to members of our communities.”

Official text of the Good DEED Act is available here.

A fact sheet on the Good DEED Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-seek-answers-united-states-postal-service,"Reps. Cleaver, Graves Seek Answers from the United States Postal Service",2022-10-11,2022,2022-10,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sam Graves (R-MO) sent a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy seeking resolution to a number of ongoing issues facing constituents in Missouri’s Fifth and Sixth Congressional Districts including, inconsistent and unreliable mail delivery and lack of transparency when attempting to resolve ongoing mail delivery issues.

“Ensuring the delivery of mail is one of the few powers specifically delegated to Congress in the Constitution, so when I hear about constituents reaching out to my office having not received their mail in weeks, it compels Members of Congress to act,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Americans rely on the Postal Service to pay their bills on time, collect their hard-earned paychecks, and receive vital medications.”

“Missourians from all walks of life depend on the United States Postal Service to deliver the mail six days a week,” said Congressman Graves. “It doesn’t matter if you live in downtown Kansas City, in the suburbs, or in rural North Missouri, folks depend on the mail to get prescriptions, bills, and other important documents in a timely manner. The failure of the agency to live up to its core promise, particularly when they just posted a $60 billion net profit, is unconscionable. I’ve long supported our postal workers and the dedication they have to delivering the mail on time, but it’s clear there’s a leadership problem somewhere in the chain of command and Missourians deserve some answers.”

In February, the Congressmen joined the House in passing H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act, which became public law in April. The Postal Service Reform Act enacts overdue changes to address financial challenges, improve mail delivery, and support postal workers, including promoting reliable delivery and transparency through a public-facing online dashboard and codifying the Postal Service’s longtime tradition of delivering mail and packages six days a week.

“When I proudly voted in favor of the Postal Service Reform Act, I voted to strengthen the United States Postal Service and ensure reliable, on-time mail service for Missourians,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Rain or shine, sleet or snow, we must restore the public’s confidence in the USPS and their ability to fulfill their duty.”

The Congressmen requested formal responses to the following questions addressed to Postmaster DeJoy:

Has the USPS received internal or external reports of significant failures to uphold its six-day mail delivery, as required by law?

What is the USPS’ plan to achieve reliable six-day delivery of the mail in all regions of the country?

Specifically, how does the USPS plan to address the Kansas City region’s unreliable mail delivery?

If/when the USPS has a change in delivery service, how does the USPS plan to notify constituents?

If there are barriers to achieving this required level of service, what are they?

Does the USPS plan to reinvest its new profits into services that support letter carriers’ critical work to deliver six-day mail?

You can find the official letter from the lawmakers here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-avert-government-shutdown-provide-22-million-lower,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Avert Government Shutdown, Provide $22 Million to Lower Energy Costs for Missouri Families, Support Ukraine",2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 6833, the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, to avert a government shutdown and fund the federal government through December 16. The legislation also provides emergency funding to lower energy costs for working families, supplemental funding to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom, and disaster relief for communities impacted by wildfires, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.

“Although I never enjoy voting for a continuing resolution, I know that the American people would enjoy a government shutdown significantly less,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate continue to negotiate a year-long appropriations package, I believe passing this legislation to keep the government open and essential services up-and-running is the right decision. In addition to more than $12 billion in supplemental funding to assist Ukraine’s fight to defend their democracy, this funding bill provides another $22 million to help lower energy costs for hardworking families in Missouri who are struggling due to Putin’s despicable invasion and its impact on energy prices around the world.”

The Continuing Resolution advances a number of key priorities for the American people, including:

$12.3 billion to assist the fight for freedom and democracy in Ukraine, including new security, economic, and humanitarian assistance;

Bolstering funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), including roughly $22 million for Missouri, which will help working families pay for higher energy bills caused in part by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine;

Disaster relief for New Mexico, Puerto Rico, Florida, Alaska, and other communities across the United States that have been impacted by hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters;

Additional Resources to respond to the respond to the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, an emergency that poses a dire threat to the health and well-being of countless Mississippi families; and

Five-year reauthorization of FDA user fees, ensuring no interruption to the FDA’s life-saving work reviewing and approving new prescription drugs coming to market.

Official text of the Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-county-executive-white-sound-alarm-deed-fraud-reported,"Rep. Cleaver, County Executive White Sound the Alarm on Deed Fraud Reported in Kansas City and Jackson County, Highlight Ways Missourians Can Protect Their Homes",2022-09-26,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. are sounding the alarm on scams being perpetrated against property owners involving the legal title to their homes, and working to educate victims of actions they should take if they detect criminal activity. Authorities continue to take concerning reports of fraud where forged, false and/or fraudulently induced deeds are recorded against properties in Jackson County without the knowledge or consent of the owner.

“With a troubling number of cases of home title fraud in Jackson County, it’s important that we raise the public’s awareness and help to protect potentially vulnerable home and property owners from unknowingly becoming a victim,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Right now, there are folks in Jackson County who are sitting in their homes, watching their television or reading the paper, who are unaware that a scam artist has already illegally transferred ownership of their home to another individual or a made-up business. It is my hope that in taking this step to educate the public on deed fraud occurring in the area that we can help individuals not only know the warning signs, but the immediate actions to take to protect themselves and prevent these criminal exploits from continuing within our community. Moving forward, I intend to introduce federal legislation in the coming days that will help federal and local law enforcement across the country crack down on these despicable scams, but it’s important to sound the alarm so families can protect themselves today.”

“I would like to commend Congressman Cleaver for stepping up to protect property owners in Jackson County, especially our most vulnerable residents. Sadly, there are criminals in our community and across the nation who are willing to deceive, lie and steal from our residents by filing false deeds without the actual property owner’s knowledge or approval,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “I look forward to learning more about Congressman Cleaver’s legislation that will help homeowners from being taken advantage of in this terrible way. In the meantime, I urge everyone to spread the word about this dangerous scam and to please contact law enforcement if you think you, or someone you know, may have been a victim.”

Document Recording in Jackson County

Pursuant to State law, the Jackson County Recorder’s Office, upon payment of the proper fees and taxes, must accept and record any document that conforms to legal requirements. In the case of a deed, the recording office will typically ensure that the deed is properly acknowledged by a notary and is compliant with recording requirements set forth by law.

The County Recorder is not responsible for verifying the validity, authenticity or legitimacy of the document that is recorded. If the document meets recording requirements, and the proper fees are submitted, the County Recorder is obligated to and will record the document.

Fraudsters continue to exploit the lack of true safeguards or deterrents against recording illegitimate deeds on property. Victims who are most targeted include the elderly, low-income minority homeowners, or those with vacant or already-distressed properties.

Common Scams Involving Fraudulent Deeds

Forgery: A fraudster may forge a homeowner’s name on a deed to a home. The deed is acknowledged and signed by a notary public (either legitimately based on false identification or illegitimately), and then recorded, effectively transferring the property to the scammer without the knowledge of the true homeowner.

Misrepresentation/Coercion: A criminal might trick or pressure a homeowner into signing a deed for the home, thus transferring the property to the fraudster or another when the deed is recorded. The homeowner is unaware that the document they are signing is a grant deed or may be misled into believing the documents to be signed are of no consequence or are “just a bunch of legalese” and not important.

In either case, the fraudster seeks to effectively transfer the property away from the true owner to sell or extract equity from the property. You may be a victim without knowing.

Warning Signs of Deed Fraud

When you receive notification or become aware of:

A recorded document on your property where you never signed the document, and your signature was forged;

A recorded document on your property where ownership in your property, or a portion thereof, was transferred or sold to another party without your knowledge;

A recorded document on your property where the signer of the document was deceased at the time of execution of the document;

A loan was taken out on your property without your knowledge; and

Changes or alterations were made to a recorded document after you signed it.

Also, if you:

Stop receiving your property tax bill or notices;

Receive a Notice of Default or Notice of Trustee's Sale when you own your home outright (free and clear of a mortgage loan), or when you have a mortgage and you are not delinquent on your loan payments;

Receive loan documents in the mail for a loan that was obtained without your knowledge; and/or

Receive real estate documents in the mail for a transaction on your property that was conducted without your knowledge.

Check Public Records

Residents can verify deed information through the Jackson County Recorder of Deeds website or may consult the Kansas City, MO parcel viewer here, where applicable.

If You Have Been a Victim of Fraudulent Deed Activity, Take Immediate Action

Victims should immediately gather and collect all information, documents, and other evidence and report the forged and/or fraudulent deed to:

Jackson County, MO Sheriff’s Office and/or the Kansas City, MO Police Department, if applicable

Jackson County, MO Prosecutor’s Office

Jackson County, MO Recorder of Deeds (the Jackson County Office of the Recorder of Deeds does not have the authority to remove fraudulently recorded documents from the system)

Staying up to date about the status of property titles and records and taking immediate action if you become a victim will help stop this fraud from happening in our community.

Federal Legislation to Combat Deed Fraud

Congressman Cleaver has been working with federal, state, and local law enforcement to seek ways in which federal legislation can help provide the resources needed for law enforcement to identify and combat deed fraud, increase criminal penalties for perpetrators, and create remedies for victims. Cleaver intends to introduce the legislation in the coming days.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-package-public-safety-bills-rep-cleavers,House of Representatives Passes Package of Public Safety Bills with Rep. Cleaver’s Support,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of a bipartisan package of four public safety bills that would make long overdue investments in evidence-based community violence intervention programs, provide funding for the hiring and training of mental health professionals in local law enforcement, enhance support services for victims of crime and their families, and ensure police departments in small towns and communities with fewer than 125 officers have the resources needed to train, recruit, and retain personnel. All four bills were passed by the House of Representatives with bipartisan support and will now go to the Senate to be taken up for debate.

“There is no higher responsibility of elected officials than ensuring the safety and security of the communities we represent,” said Congressman Cleaver. “After months of deliberative, collaborative, and constructive negotiations between Representatives across the ideological spectrum, I believe this package of public safety legislation takes a holistic approach—through increased mental health services, victim support services, and additional funding for critical community violence prevention programs—that will lead to safer communities in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri and all throughout the nation. I’ve long said that compromise is an essential component to our democratic system of government, and while I would never claim this legislation is perfect, it is an important step in the right direction.”

The public safety package passed by the House of Representatives consisted of four bills: the Mental Health Justice Act, VICTIM Act, Break the Cycle of Violence Act, and Invest to Protect Act. Put together, the legislation would:

Create a grant program to pay for hiring, training, salary, benefits, and additional expenses for mental health provider first responder units to ensure local law enforcement have mental health professionals that can respond appropriately when someone is in a mental health crisis or related situation.

Award $5 billion in grants to community-based nonprofit organizations and eligible local governments for community outreach programs staffed by violence intervention and prevention specialists; hospital-based violence intervention programs that provide intensive counseling, peer support, case management, mediation, and social services to patients recovering from gunshot wounds and other violent injuries; group violence intervention strategies; and violence interruption and crisis management initiatives.

Establish a Community Violence Intervention Advisory Committee to provide advice and assistance to help select the most effective and efficient grantees for evidence-based community violence prevention programs.

Create a National Community Violence Response Center to provide technical assistance and implementation support to grantees, and to conduct research, collect data, and report to Congress to inform future public safety legislation.

Direct the Department of Labor to award $1.5 billion for Improving Approaches for Communities to Thrive (IMPACT) grants to provide job training, apprenticeships, and other workforce experiences for youth in communities disproportionately impacted by violence.

Provide grant funding to state, tribal, or local law enforcement agencies to hire, retain, or train detectives to investigate homicides, rapes, sexual assaults, kidnappings, and non-fatal shootings.

Ensure victim services are funded, staffed, and trained to provide resources to victims and their family members, while also developing competitive, evidence-based programs to improve clearance rates and victim services.

Fund grant programs to local law enforcement agencies with fewer than 125 officers to be utilized for de-escalation training, access to mental health resources, recruitment, and retention—and allows the Department of Justice to give preference to agencies applying for funds for de-escalation training.

Allow DOJ to audit any grantees to ensure funds are being used appropriately.

“With this public safety package, the House of Representatives is finally taking steps to fund community violence intervention and prevention programs; we’re installing certified mental health professionals to safely and appropriately respond to individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis; we’re strengthening support services for victims of crime and their families to help them fully recover; and we’re ensuring that local law enforcement have the resources needed to clear cases and keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Cleaver. “But this cannot, and will not, be the final step in our effort to improve public safety. Moving forward, we must continue working to get weapons of war off the street, prevent dangerous individuals from obtaining deadly firearms, fund mental health and substance use treatment services, reinvest in underserved communities, and invest in public schools and workforce training programs that keep our youth on the right track.”

Official text of the Mental Health Justice Act is available here.

Official text of the VICTIM Act is available here.

Official text of the Break the Cycle of Violence Act is available here.

Official text of the Invest to Protect Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-reform-electoral-count-act-protect-american-democracy,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Reform Electoral Count Act, Protect American Democracy from Election Subversion",2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 8873, the Presidential Election Reform Act, a bipartisan bill that would reform the outdated Electoral Count Act to protect our democracy against efforts at election subversion and ensure the electoral votes tallied by Congress accurately reflect each State’s vote for President. The Presidential Election Reform Act would ensure that Congress counts the votes of the Electoral College as required by the Constitution and without any benefit to either political party, including by ensuring that Congress receives a single accurate electoral certificate from each State, requiring that States select electors in accordance with state law existing as of the date of the election, and providing a federal judicial remedy in the event that a state governor refuses to certify the lawful result of a presidential election.

“The January 6th assault on the Capitol was an attack on our democracy, on the rule of law, and on our 235-year-old Constitution—and Congress has an obligation to ensure that any future attempts to steal an election from the American people have no possibility of success,” said Congressman Cleaver. “With the bipartisan Presidential Election Reform Act, we have studied the variety of tactics utilized by the former president to try to overturn a free and fair election, and we have taken critical steps to shore up vulnerabilities in the Electoral Count Act of 1887. While I believe this is an important step that creates stronger guardrails that will help prevent another assault on our Constitution, we must remain vigilant to the rising threats to democracy in America and around the world.”

The Presidential Election Reform Act takes four critical steps to strengthen the integrity of future presidential elections, including:

Reaffirming that the Vice President has no authority or discretion to reject official slates of electors or delay the count in any material way;

Limiting the type of objections that can be raised during certification, adhering to only those outlined in our Constitution. All objections raised during the certification process would require one-third of each chamber to be entertained, and a majority to be sustained;

Requiring Governors to transmit lawful election results to Congress in a timely fashion—or be compelled by a federal court, which ensures that no rogue Governor can unlawfully subvert the will of the people; and

Making abundantly clear that States cannot change the rules governing an election after it has occurred, which would prevent radical state legislators from attempting to alter the outcome of an election after the election has been held.

“What makes America truly exceptional is our ability to peacefully settle political disagreements through the rule of law and free and fair elections,” said Congressman Cleaver. “With their violent attempt to disrupt the certification of the presidential election, the insurrectionists of January 6th took a wrecking ball to the hallmark of American democracy—the peaceful transfer of power. While this legislation cannot prevent demagogues from lying to the American people in an effort to incite violence and undermine the constitutional principles that have led our nation to greatness, it provides further protection against extreme attempts to bend the rule of law in favor of one political party and against the will of the people. Sadly, that has become a critically important step that Congress must take.”

Official text of the Presidential Election Reform Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-introduce-resolution-honoring-fallen-independence,"Reps. Cleaver, Graves Introduce Resolution Honoring Fallen Independence Police Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans on Anniversary of His Passing",2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced a resolution honoring the life and legacy of fallen Independence Police Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans on the one-year anniversary of his tragic passing in the line of duty.

“By all accounts, from his family to fellow colleagues in law enforcement, Officer Madrid-Evans was a selfless, dedicated public servant who cared deeply about the safety of his family, friends, neighbors, and the entire Independence community,” said Congressman Cleaver. “While a year has passed since Officer Madrid-Evans was tragically taken from us, it is important that we continue to honor his legacy and never forget the ultimate sacrifice he made on behalf of the community he loved. My prayers are with the loved ones of Officer Madrid-Evans on this extraordinarily difficult day, and I hope that this resolution—to be recorded in the House of Representatives for all of history to see—will provide some comfort as they continue to grieve such a remarkable man.”

“Like too many in law enforcement today, Independence Police Officer Blaize Madrid-Evans was taken from us far too soon,” said Congressman Graves. “Born and raised in the Northland, Officer Evans gave his life to protect our community. His generosity didn’t end with his passing, though. As an organ donor, Officer Evans has gone on to save 7 lives and enhance the lives of 37 others. Although he’s saved and healed many, his passing has still left deep wounds in our community. My prayers are with his family, friends, loved ones, and fellow officers as they continue to grieve. My hope is that this resolution recognizing his service, sacrifice, and generosity will be enshrined in history by the House of Representatives for all to learn from until the end of time.”

Official text of the resolution honoring Officer Madrid-Evans is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-blunt-missouri-congressional-delegation-truman-library,"Cleaver, Blunt, Missouri Congressional Delegation & Truman Library Institute Announce September 29th Unveiling of Harry S. Truman Statue in the U.S. Capitol",2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), along with the Missouri congressional delegation, including U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) and U.S. Representatives Cori Bush(D-MO),Sam Graves (R-MO), Vicky Hartzler (R-MO), Ann Wagner (R-MO), Billy Long (R-MO), Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO), and Jason Smith (R-MO), joined the Truman Library Institute in announcing that the congressional dedication ceremony for the Harry S. Truman statue is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. CT on Thursday, September 29, in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.

“The world needs to know about this man from Missouri who did so much for this country and whose name must be placed among those who’ve done the most for racial equality in America,” said Congressman Cleaver, who proudly represents Missouri’s 5th congressional district—the district of Harry Truman’s hometown of Independence, MO. “President Truman’s decision to eliminate racial discrimination within America’s armed forces and federal workforce was a true display of moral leadership—and a monumental contribution to the American Civil Rights movement. He stepped forward and placed himself directly in the line of fire—even putting his reelection in jeopardy. But he did what was right and necessary for the U.S. to carry the mantle as the world’s leader in the cause of democracy and human rights. For that, I’m pleased he will make his return to the U.S. Capitol to inspire the next generation of Americans to defend the sacred values of democracy, freedom, and equality for all.”

“President Truman’s tenacity, character, and courage to confront difficult problems are values admired by his fellow Missourians and people who study our history,” said Senator Blunt, who played a crucial role in steering the Truman Statue Project. “No president faced more crucial decisions than those President Truman confronted in the first nine months of his presidency. It’s been an honor to work in the same Russell Senate offices he used for the last 12 years.”

“President Harry Truman was a true son of Missouri, devoting his life to service and to the good men and women of the state he loved,” said Senator Hawley. “He was a decisive and honest leader when our nation needed it most and saw us through difficult and perilous times. It’s an honor to join my colleagues in dedication a statue to his memory.”

“I am excited to be able to join in the unveiling ceremony for President Harry S. Truman’s new statue in the United States Capitol Building,” Congressman Long said. “President Truman embodied the American Dream. From a farmer in Missouri to President of the United States, President Truman remained humbler throughout his entire life. I am glad that his statue now joins other great American presidents in the Capitol Building, so that future generations can continue to learn about his incredible life and legacy.”

“After only three months as Vice President, Harry Truman succeeded an extremely popular President in the middle of the deadliest war in human history,” said Congressman Luetkemeyer. “President Truman led the United States out of World War II and into one of our nation’s more prosperous periods. As the only Missourian to serve as President, he has certainly earned a place in the Capitol.”

“I am proud to join my Missouri colleagues in honoring one of the most influential public servants from our great state, President Harry S. Truman.” Said Congresswoman Wagner. “Throughout his life, President Truman served our nation at every level, from enlisting in the Missouri National Guard, to fighting in France during World War I, serving as a judge, representing our state in the United States Senate, and finally leading our nation as Commander-in-Chief. President Truman’s statue in the U.S. Capitol will serve as an important reminder of his long-lasting legacy and dedication to our country.”

“President Harry Truman was born in my district and lived a life reflective of his rural upbringing—with a strong work ethic, steadfast patriotism, and plainspoken ‘The Buck Stops Here’ accountability,” said Congresswoman Hartzler. “ These qualities enabled him to lead with courage and conviction ending World War II. I am pleased the Show Me State’s distinguished son’s statue will be displayed in our nation’s Capitol as an inspiration for future citizens to achieve greatness through humble leadership.”

“President Harry S. Truman was a true statesman and one of Missouri’s finest,” said Congressman Graves. “As an artillery officer, he fought bravely in the trenched of Europe during World War I. As President he made some of the most difficult decisions in the world, brought an end to World War II, and helped usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for these United States. No matter where he served, Harry Truman never forgot his roots and he always lived up to his favorite slogan: the buck stops here.”

“President Harry S. Truman’s rise from the son of humble Missouri farmers to the leader of the greatest nation in the world is the story of the American Dream,” said Congressman Smith. “As a proud Missourian, bold leader, and successful president, President Truman is a great addition to the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall Collection.”

“From desegregating our military to issuing executive orders prohibiting discrimination in housing and the workplace, President Truman implemented actions that prioritized civil rights,” said Congresswoman Bush. “I am glad to join the Missouri delegation in the announcement of the Congressional unveiling of the President Harry Truman statue.”

“President Truman may be remembered largely in black and white, but he is a 21st century standard for presidential leadership and public service. His story is our story, America’s story,” said Alex Burden, Executive Director of the Truman Library Institute. “Inheriting a global catastrophe after World War II, Truman shouldered the burden of leadership in a rudderless world with remarkable courage, integrity, and humility. That’s why it’s a tremendous honor to lead this effort to bring Truman back to Washington more than 75 years since he boldly led our nation through some of the most dramatic and consequential chapters in America’s history.”

That statue of President Harry S. Truman will represent the State of Missouri in the Statuary Hall Collection and will be the 10th presidential statue installed in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.

The Truman Library Institute—founded by President Truman—spearheaded the Truman Statue Campaign to fund, create, and install the new Truman statue for the State of Missouri. The Truman Library Institute is the member-supported, nonprofit partner of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum, one of 15 presidential libraries of the National Archives and Records Administration. The Truman Library Institute recently led a $41 million renovation of the Truman Library in Independence, Mo. Additional information on the statue is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-vows-continue-push-legislation-end-gun-violence,Rep. Cleaver Vows to Continue Push for Legislation to End Gun Violence,2022-09-07,2022,2022-09,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II reaffirmed his commitment to put People Over Politics and continue working to pass commonsense gun safety legislation that will lead to safer communities throughout Missouri.

“Since the unfortunate end of the assault weapons ban in 2004, the United States has seen an explosion of weapons of war in our streets—and the results are a tragedy that strikes every community and weighs on the heart of every American across the country,” said Congressman Cleaver. “We’ve seen far too many families forced to bear the horrific burden of a child lost to gun violence and far too many neighborhoods devastated by the unrelenting production and importation of firearms into their communities. While I am proud to have helped pass the first major piece of gun safety legislation in decades earlier this year via the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, it’s clear that more must be done to save lives. I am more committed than ever to passing commonsense reforms that would keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of criminals, and I implore my colleagues in the United States Senate to help in this endeavor.”

Missouri currently has the fifth-highest rate of gun deaths in the United States. On average, 1,288 Missourians die from gun violence and 2,312 people are wounded by guns every year, costing every Missourian an average of $2,875 per year.

Congressman Cleaver has been an ardent supporter of commonsense gun violence prevention laws, including legislation to require background checks for all gun sales, close loopholes that let dangerous people get guns, ban assault weapons, and keep our children safe, such as:

The Bipartisan Background Checks Act, which would establish new background check requirements for firearm transfers between private parties and close loopholes that allow criminals and abusers to buy weapons unchecked.

The Enhanced Background Checks Act, which would close the Charleston loophole that allows dealers to transfer a firearm to a buyer after 3 business days if the FBI background check has not been completed.

The Protecting Our Kids Act, which raises the purchasing age for semi-automatic weapons from 18 to 21 years old, outlaws high-capacity magazines, requires the safe storage of firearms, and bans bump stocks and untraceable and deadly ghost guns.

The Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, which keeps guns out of the hands of people who pose a threat to themselves or others through a federal red-flag program.

The Assault Weapons Ban of 2022, which bans military-style weapons, such as AR-15s, and high-capacity ammunition magazines that are frequently used in horrific mass shootings.

Due to the Senate filibuster and the GOP’s extreme opposition to life-saving gun violence prevention legislation, each of these bills have been blocked in the United States Senate.

“The overwhelming majority of Americans support laws that would require universal background checks, prevent criminals and domestic abusers from accessing firearms, and close loopholes that make it easier than ever for dangerous individuals to obtain deadly weapons that can then be used in mass shootings. It’s way past time for my friends across the aisle to side with the American people, not the gun lobby, and help us pass gun safety legislation that will save lives and lead to safer communities for the American people,” said Congressman Cleaver.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-joins-epa-deputy-administrator-mccabe-award-575-million,Rep. Cleaver Joins EPA Deputy Administrator McCabe to Award $5.75 Million to Kansas City for Brownfield Projects,2022-08-31,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) joined U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe and EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister to award $5.75 million to the City of Kansas City, MO. These grants are provided through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding, including $3.9 million to the Kansas City, Missouri, Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund.

The breakdown for the $5.75 million in federal funding includes: $3.9 million to the Kansas City, Missouri Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund, $1 million to the Kansas City, Missouri Bi-State Brownfields Coalition Revolving Loan Fund, $500,000 for a community-wide Brownfields Assessment Grant, and $350,000 for an environmental Brownfields Assessment Grant.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will extend the capacity of the Kansas City’s Brownfields program to provide funding for more cleanups in the city’s most disadvantaged areas.

Proposed plans at Hardesty Federal Complex Buildings 1 and 2 include abatement of contaminants such as asbestos, lead-based paint, and other hazards. This work is an important step toward redeveloping the buildings into housing, retail, and commercial space, and it has the potential to be funded through the Kansas City, Missouri, Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund.

“I proudly supported the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to ensure that critical federal investments were made right here in communities throughout Kansas City, and that’s exactly what we are seeing happen today,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I was thrilled to join EPA Deputy Administrator McCabe and Regional Administrator McCollister to highlight the funding for necessary work to address Kansas City’s brownfields and revitalize communities”

“Across the country, thousands of sites like the former Hardesty Federal Complex right here in Kansas City, sit idle, too often jeopardizing the health and economic security of local communities,” said Deputy Administrator McCabe. “Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties has the power to turn once blighted areas into economic engines right here in Missouri, providing opportunities for job growth, increasing tax revenues, and protecting people’s health and the environment.”

“We are thrilled to have Deputy Administrator McCabe, Congressman Cleaver, and the city of Kansas City, Missouri, join our celebration of the Brownfields program,” said Regional Administrator McCollister. “We’re excited for Kansas City to harness the potential of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to build on past successes, clean up contaminated sites, and spur reinvestment in local communities that need it most.”

After the event, EPA joined Rep. Cleaver and community leaders from Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), and Mattie Rhodes for a roundtable on community reinvestment. The group focused on the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor, announced by Congressman Cleaver in February. Participants spoke about ongoing work being done inside communities within the corridor, the corridor’s anticipatory future, and how its collaborative approach makes it a magnet for future federal investments for communities along and within its boundaries.

“The Sustainable Corridor project presents the citizens of two states, five cities, two counties, and, perhaps, the entire nation, a sample of the community and economic development that can be created if we focus, like a laser, on healing our environment through sustainable efforts,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This project harnesses the ability to unlock greater opportunities for underserved communities throughout the region through targeted federal investments. The EPA’s $5.75 million grant to the City for its brownfields programs and the DOT’s $5.6 million RAISE grant for the Sustainable Corridor are only the beginning of a number of significant federal funding opportunities that we hope to see made here in our community. I will continue to work with our partners on a federal and local level to ensure that we maximize the positive impact these, and future, investments will have on area families.”

A Fact Sheet on the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-highlights-16-million-investment-american-rescue-plan-funds,"Rep. Cleaver Highlights $1.6 Million Investment in American Rescue Plan Funds to Build Visitors Center and Boost Tourism in Saline County, Missouri",2022-08-30,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) applauds the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) $1.6 million grant to Saline County, Missouri to support tourism by building a new visitors center. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, which was supported by Congressman Cleaver and signed into law by President Biden last year.

“The American Rescue Plan is once again delivering for the people of Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I am thrilled to see $1.6 million in federal funding heading toward Saline County to boost tourism, stimulate economic activity, and create good-paying jobs for hardworking families. With the construction of a new visitor center, Saline County will be able to attract more Americans and show all that rural Missouri has to offer! The economic development spurred by this investment will be felt for generations to come—and I’ll keep fighting for additional targeted investments that will support communities and workers throughout the Show Me State.”

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

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in 2021 to all 50 states and territories. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-introduce-resolution-honoring-fallen-north-kansas,"Reps. Cleaver, Graves Introduce Resolution Honoring Fallen North Kansas City Police Officer Daniel Vasquez",2022-08-17,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05) and Sam Graves (MO-06) introduced a resolution honoring the life of fallen North Kansas City Police Officer Daniel Vasquez and expressing condolences to his family.

“The entirety of North Kansas City experienced a devastating loss with the passing of Officer Daniel Vasquez, who dedicated his career, and selflessly gave his life, protecting our communities,” said Congressman Cleaver. “While we can never repay the debt owed to Officer Vasquez and his family, it’s important that we honor his legacy and ensure his memory lives on as a shining example of what it means to be an exemplary public servant–and the risks that law enforcement face every single day as they make our communities a safer place. As Congressman Graves and I introduce this resolution to recognize the life of Officer Vasquez, my prayers remain with his family, friends, and colleagues as they continue to grieve such a monumental loss.”

“Officer Vasquez made the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our community,” Graves said. “We should never forget that and we should honor his lasting legacy of selfless service and dedication to making the greater Kansas City region a better, safer place to work, live, and raise a family. I pray that his family, friends, loved ones and colleagues can find peace in the face of this unspeakable loss to our community.”

You can read the official text of the resolution honoring Officer Vasquez here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/inflation-reduction-act-passes-house-representatives-rep-cleavers,Inflation Reduction Act Passes House of Representatives with Rep. Cleaver’s Support,2022-08-12,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5376, the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed the House of Representatives and will now go to President Biden to be signed into law. The transformative legislation takes historic steps to lower prescription drug, healthcare, and energy costs, invest in domestic clean energy production and manufacturing, and cut carbon emissions by 40 percent. Additionally, the bill will help fight inflation by reducing the national deficit through reforms to our broken tax system that ensure Wall Street, corporations, and the wealthiest Americans pay their fair share in taxes.

“Today, I’m proud to join my Democratic colleagues as we stand up to special interests and pass the Inflation Reduction Act to lower prescription drug and healthcare costs, make the largest investment in climate action in American history, and create millions of good-paying clean energy jobs of the future—all while reducing our national deficit by cracking down on tax evasion and forcing giant corporations and Wall Street to pay their fair share,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This historic legislation will provide relief to American seniors who are going to pay less for their life-saving medications; to hardworking families who will see lower energy costs; to working class Missourians who will save money on their healthcare premiums; and to the public at large as the reduction in our national deficit helps to ease the heavy burden of inflation. The Inflation Reduction Act is an enormous and vital victory for regular families in Missouri and all across the nation, and I’m proud to have helped pass this legislation so that we can accelerate our transition to renewable energy and ensure our economy continues to grow in an equitable, strong, and sustainable fashion.”

According to 126 leading economists—including seven Nobel Prize winners, three former chairs of the Council of Economic Advisers, and two former Treasury Secretaries—the Inflation Reduction Act “will fight inflation and lower costs for American families while setting the stage for strong, stable, and broadly-shared long-term economic growth.”

Specifically, the Inflation Reduction Act will lower prescription drug and healthcare costs by:

Finally allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices, giving the Secretary of Health and Human Services the ability to negotiate directly to lower the cost of prescription drugs and ensure that Medicare beneficiaries get the best possible deal on high cost medications;

Lowering out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors by implementing a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries;

Implementing a new inflation rebate that requires drug companies who increase the price of their drugs beyond the rate of inflation to pay a rebate to Medicare for Part B and Part D drugs, which will help to prevent unnecessary and excessive price hikes on a wide variety of medications;

Extending enhanced subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, which will lock in lower health care premiums that save 13 million Americans, including 233,000 Missourians, an average of $800 a year;

Capping monthly insulin costs at $35 per month for Missourians on Medicare; and more.

The Inflation Reduction Act will combat climate change and lower energy costs by:

Making the largest investment in climate action in American history, with approximately $370 billion in funding and tax incentives to address climate change and accelerate America’s transition to renewable energy;

Reducing carbon emissions by roughly 40 percent by 2030, which restores America’s global leadership in the fight against climate change and puts our nation on a path to reach President Biden’s goal of cutting carbon emissions in half by the end of the decade;

Providing tax breaks to American consumers who weatherize their homes, electrify their vehicles and home appliances, and take other steps to increase energy efficiency at home;

Boosting domestic manufacturing and clean energy production, with $60 billion for clean energy manufacturing across the full supply chain of clean energy and transportation technologies, which will help to alleviate energy costs and reduce the risk of future price shocks by bringing down the cost of clean energy;

Providing financing for energy infrastructure, next generation technologies, and energy projects that are critical to transitioning away from fossil fuels as swiftly as possible; and more.

The Inflation Reduction Act will reduce the national deficit by approximately $300 billion, helping to combat inflation, by:

Requiring the largest corporations to pay a 15% minimum tax, which would apply only to the approximately 150 corporations making over $1 billion in profits and paying less than 15% in taxes;

Imposing a 1% excise tax on corporate stock buybacks, which enrich CEOs and shareholders instead of creating new jobs or investing in American workers; and

Funding the IRS to crack down on wealthy tax cheats. Unlike honest, hard-working middle-class families, the top 1% is estimated to not pay $160 billion in owed taxes each year. Treasury Secretary Yellen has specifically directed the IRS Commissioner to not use funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to increase the audit rate for households making under $400,000 a year, instead directing the IRS to focus on increased enforcement activity of high-wealth taxpayers and large corporations.

“With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, the United States is taking major steps to lower costs for American families, protect our planet for future generations, and ensure our economy is working for working people—not just the wealthy few,” said Congressman Cleaver. “I’m proud to have voted for this historic legislation, and I look forward to the countless benefits it will bring to my constituents in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri.”

Official text of the Inflation Reduction Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-56-million-raise-grant-bi-state-sustainable,Rep. Cleaver Announces $5.6 Million RAISE Grant for Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor Project,2022-08-10,2022,2022-08,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced the Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded the Mid-America Regional Council a $5,600,000 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) Grant for the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor project. Utilizing federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, The Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor is a regional project that will connect three major cities in two states and two counties by implementing a 24-mile zero-emission regional transit route, including improved access to housing, health care, employment, and education for citizens in each city and surrounding area. The project was announced by Rep. Cleaver in February.

“Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed into law by President Biden, I have worked tirelessly with the Administration to secure federal funding for the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor—and I’m thrilled to announce that the first piece of the puzzle has fallen into place today with this $5.6 million RAISE grant,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Secretary Buttigieg about the possibilities of this project and the ways in which it will unlock opportunities for underserved communities throughout the region, and I’m pleased that he is as excited about these prospects as I am. With a concentration on sustainability, public transportation, and economic development, the Sustainable Corridor has an opportunity to be not just a major success in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, but a shining example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law can create a sustainable, equitable future for an entire region. As this funding makes its way to Kansas City, I will continue to work with our partners on a federal and local level to ensure we maximize the positive impact this project will have on Missouri families.”

“By working with leaders on both sides of the state line, the Kansas City region can be a national example on how to leverage both federal funding and local engagement to create green, resilient infrastructure that lasts for generations to come,” said Rep. Davids. “This RAISE grant for the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor will jumpstart these investments by reducing energy costs, upgrading broadband equipment, creating affordable housing, increasing job opportunities, and so much more. I’ll continue working across all levels of government to get this done.”

“I applaud Congressman Cleaver for his work on connecting communities and keeping investment in sustainable public transportation a priority,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. “Reliable, safe, and efficient public transportation unlocks opportunities for people across our region and helps our businesses attract talent in Kansas City and all of our bistate area.”

""Impacting and improving our transit system in a manner that makes it more responsive to the needs of our city and regional community is an attractive outcome of the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor Initiative. In addition, our City and regional community are most excited about, and looks forward to the benefits beyond transit services that the RAISE grant will bring to families and workers in Kansas City, Kansas and Wyandotte County and the metropolitan area,"" said Unified Government/Kansas City, Kansas Mayor Tyrone Garner. ""We believe that the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor Initiative represents the critical delivery and life-line for economic development services, job opportunity and worker and family support desperately needed to build viable communities.

“Receiving this grant award for the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor sets the foundation to implement long-overdue community-based investments, including an east-west transportation network that connects diverse communities in our region,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “Today’s announcement brings residents and businesses on both sides of the state line one step closer to having that critical need fulfilled. Jackson County looks forward to continuing its work with MARC, our neighboring municipalities, and congressional representatives on this exciting project.”

“Our residents and businesses will greatly benefit from the opportunities that the Corridor will deliver. We are eager to work with neighboring jurisdictions, partner organizations and the community to support these critical needs for the Kansas City region,” said Sugar Creek, Missouri, Mayor Mike Larson.

The $5.6 million in federal funding will be used to fund planning activities for the east-west high-capacity transit corridor from Village West in Wyandotte County, Kansas through downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Independence, Missouri. The funding will help update transportation plans, complete project development and environmental documentation for zero-emission transportation elements, and complete advanced conceptual engineering design for one or more high-capacity transit routes.

A Fact Sheet on the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:59:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-assault-weapons-ban-protect-missouri-communities-gun,Rep. Cleaver Votes for Assault Weapons Ban to Protect Missouri Communities from Gun Violence,2022-07-30,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Last night, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 1808, the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022, to protect communities in Missouri from mass shootings that have devastated communities like Sandy Hook, Uvalde, Las Vegas, Parkland, El Paso, Orlando, and countless others. Similar to the assault weapons ban enacted in 1994, which lasted for a decade and led to a significant decline in mass shootings, the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 would prohibit the sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons and high capacity magazines. Congressman Cleaver was a cosponsor of the legislation, which will now go to the Senate for debate.

""Assault weapons are weapons of war that were specifically designed to kill human beings—and more must be done to keep these human killing machines off the street,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""We have seen countless examples of individuals legally obtaining assault weapons, who then go on to inflict unthinkable death and destruction in communities across the nation. We've also seen the substantial decline in mass shootings that come with an assault weapons ban, and it is way past time that Congress reinstituted this commonsense policy. While the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act was a critical step in the right direction to combat the scourge of gun violence plaguing our nation, we can do more to save lives and protect our communities. That's what the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 will do.""

With eight of the ten deadliest mass shootings in recent American history involving an assault weapon, these firearms have clearly become the weapon of choice for mass shooters, as they are designed to kill as many people as possible as quickly as possible. According to Everytown for Gun Safety, when assault weapons are used in a mass shooting, six times as many people are shot. Additionally, researchers estimate that a federal assault weapons ban would cut down on mass shooting deaths by as much as 70 percent.

To cut down on gun violence in communities across the country, the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 would:

Prohibit the sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity ammunition feeding devices, subject to grandfathering provisions and other exceptions;

Define semiautomatic assault weapons to include

Rifles, shotguns, and pistols that (1) are semiautomatic, (2) can accept a detachable ammunition feeding device, and (3) have at least one additional listed feature that make firearms especially deadly, including military features identified in ATF reports under the Bush and Clinton administrations;

Allow the possession of any semiautomatic assault weapon lawfully possessed on the date of the enactment;

Allow the sale or transfer of any semiautomatic assault weapon lawfully possessed on the date of enactment following a background check;

Require that semiautomatic assault weapons be securely stored so that they are not accessible to those who are prohibited from possessing them;

Allow states to use the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant funds for voluntary buyback programs for semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity magazines;

Protect the rights of hunters, gun collectors, farmers, sport shooters, and those who use firearms for self-defense through exemptions for grandfathered weapons, antiques, most manually operated firearms, and more than 2,200 listed firearms that are not affected by this prohibition; and

Exempt the use of semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity ammunition feeding devices for specific uses such as law enforcement (including retired service weapons), nuclear security, testing authorized by the Attorney General, and temporary transfers without a background check or target shooting at a licensed target facility or established range.

Official text of the Assault Weapons Ban of 2022 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-helps-pass-chips-science-act-lower-costs-strengthen,"Rep. Cleaver Helps Pass CHIPS & Science Act to Lower Costs, Strengthen American Manufacturing, and Secure America’s Economic and National Security",2022-07-28,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 4346, the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) & Science Act, which will help lower costs for hardworking families, strengthen American manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs in Missouri and across the country. The bill will provide a historic $52 billion investment to bolster America's semiconductor industry, strengthen our supply chains, reduce America's dependence on foreign manufacturers, and stimulate American research & development to ensure our economic and national security for generations to come. The legislation was passed by the House of Representatives with a vote of 243-187 and will now go to President Biden to be signed into law.

""Potato chips are good, chocolate chips are great—but microchips are what makes the world go ‘round in the 21st century,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Whether folks realize it or not, microchips are in everything from washing machines and refrigerators to automobiles and cellphones—and one of the key reasons Missourians are currently doling out more of their hard-earned money for these items is due to America's failure to invest in the manufacturing necessary to create American-made semiconductors right here at home. The CHIPS and Science Act takes a critical step to secure the homegrown manufacturing of microchips for decades to come, which is essential to lowering costs on everyday items and maintaining America's dominance in science and technologies of the future, rather than ceding ground to Russia or the People's Republic of China. While I find it baffling that only a handful of House Republicans could support a bill so widely supported by American workers and businesses alike, I was proud to support this important legislation because it will create good-paying jobs for Missourians, lower costs on hardworking families, and guarantee that America remains globally competitive throughout the 21st century.""

The CHIPS and Science Act will:

Lower costs for American families by manufacturing more semiconductor components in America, which will help to end the shortage of chips that has driven up the price of everything from cars to consumers goods;

Create approximately 100,000 new, good-paying jobs building, expanding, and maintaining hi-tech manufacturing facilities in Missouri and throughout the country;

End our dependence on foreign manufacturers that has led to supply chain disruptions and higher prices, bringing critical manufacturing back to the U.S. instead of overseas where it can be threatened by our adversaries;

Boost American Research and Development by making investments to power America's dominance in basic research and next-generation technologies, helping to ensure the technologies of the future are made in America; and

Diversify and expand the innovation workforce to ensure America is maximizing the potential of our homegrown talent by diversifying our STEM workforce and advancing regional technology hubs. This will ensure more communities across the country can assist in advancing American research and development.

The CHIPS and Science Act is endorsed by the AFL-CIO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, United Auto Workers, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Communications Workers of America, Associated General Contractors of America, Semiconductor Industry Association, American Iron and Steel Institute, and more.

Official text of the CHIPS and Science Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-bill-stimulate-economic-development-underserved,Rep. Cleaver’s Bill to Stimulate Economic Development in Underserved Communities Passes House of Representatives,2022-07-28,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Last night, the House of Representatives passed U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II's (D-MO) CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act under suspension of the rules, which requires a two-thirds majority, rather than a simple majority, of the whole House to pass legislation. Rep. Cleaver's bipartisan CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act would stimulate greater economic development in underserved communities across the country by reauthorizing the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program for four years and implementing reforms that ensure smaller Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) can access the program, giving additional financing and capital for more community development projects in the most economically distressed areas of the country.

""In the 21st century economy, access to capital and financial services is critical to the economic development and overall health of communities across the country. Unfortunately, the lack of access to affordable financing has led to unacceptable disparities in the economic well-being of rural, minority, and other underserved communities that are critical to the growth of our nation's economy,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I'm thankful that my colleagues in the House of Representatives once again passed my CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act—this time with a two-thirds majority—to extend the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program and ensure it can continue to positively benefit underserved communities throughout Missouri and around the nation.""

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program was created in 2010 to provide long-term capital to CDFIs across the country at no expense to American taxpayers. While the program's authorization lapsed in 2014, it has been extended on a year-by-year basis through annual appropriations legislation. As required by law, CDFIs borrowers must have a loan size of at least $100 million to participate in the program—which allows for only relatively large and often complex multi-party applications.

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act would reauthorize the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program for another four years and lower the minimum loan threshold to $25 million, giving more and smaller CDFIs greater opportunity to access the benefits of the program, which will then help to stimulate additional community development in rural, urban, and Tribal communities around the country.

Official text of the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-enshrine-right-contraception-federal-law,Rep. Cleaver Votes to Enshrine Right to Contraception into Federal Law,2022-07-21,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 8373, the Right to Contraception Act, to protect the fundamental right to contraception and enshrine this right in federal law. Specifically, the legislation would ensure that neither states nor a hostile Administration can limit Americans' access to contraceptives or the ability of health care providers to provide contraceptives and information related to them. The legislation was passed by the House of Representatives by a vote of 228-195.

""With the Supreme Court's extreme decision to overturn fifty years of precedent by overruling Roe v. Wade, they have made it abundantly clear that other fundamental freedoms that Americans rely on are on the chopping block. One of those is the right to contraception,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""While I was proud to join 228 lawmakers on a bipartisan basis to defend the American people's right to make their own family decisions free from government intrusion, I find it mind boggling that 195 Republicans would prefer to leave those decisions in the hands of politicians in state legislatures—which is why the federal protections we passed today are so important.""

Ninety-nine percent of U.S. women who have been sexually active report having used some form of contraception, and ninety-six percent of voters support having access to contraception. In addition to contraceptives being crucial to preventing unintended pregnancies, they also prevent and treat a wide array of medical conditions and decrease the risk of certain cancers.

By overruling Roe v. Wade, the Republican supermajority on the Supreme Court has now called into question the constitutionality of contraception, marriage equality, and other rights that stem from the right to privacy guaranteed under the Fourteenth Amendment. Justice Clarence Thomas explicitly stated so in his concurrence in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, contending that the Supreme Court should reconsider ""all of this Court's substantive due process precedents, including Griswold""—the landmark case that first recognized the Constitutional right to use contraceptives.

Some Republican legislators, such as legislators in Idaho and Louisiana, have used the Dobbs decision to try to block or ban certain contraceptive methods, such as emergency contraception and long-acting reversible contraception like intrauterine devices (IUDs). Previously, the Missouri State Legislature has tried to ban common forms of contraceptives from being paid for by the state's Medicaid program. Now that Roe has been overturned, one Republican state legislator noted that ""anything's on the table"" in terms of contraceptive limits.

To protect Americans' fundamental right to contraception, the Right to Contraception Act would:

Establish a statutory right to obtain contraceptives and to engage in contraception, and for health care providers to provide contraceptives, contraception, and information related to contraception.

Protect against any state laws that attempt to restrict access to contraceptives and affirms the Attorney General's enforcement authority to bring civil actions against any state that attempts to do so.

Establish a private right of action for individuals to enforce their right to obtain contraceptives and for health care providers to enforce their right to provide contraceptives and information related to contraception.

Official text of the Right to Contraception Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-government-funding-package-major-investments-missouri,Rep. Cleaver Votes for Government Funding Package with Major Investments in Missouri Families and Communities,2022-07-20,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 8294, a package of six government funding bills with critical support for families and communities across Missouri. The historic investments in the bill would help lower the cost of living for Missourians, create good-paying jobs in every community, focus on uplifting working class families, and provide additional support for small businesses throughout the nation. In addition to critical investments in everything from affordable housing to nutrition assistance, the government funding package includes $38,250,000 in funding for 14 of Rep. Cleaver's 15 Community Project Funding requests, with the 15th project expected to be funded in the final government funding package to be debated later this month.

""As Missourians face higher costs caused by the ongoing pandemic and Putin's vile invasion of Ukraine, House Democrats and I are laser-focused on fighting inflation and lowering costs for the American people—and today we passed a government funding package with critical investments that will provide much-needed relief to hardworking families in the Show Me State,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""For months, I have pushed House Leadership and my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to increase investments in things like affordable housing, renewable energy, and nutrition assistance programs—all of which are critical to working class families. I'm happy to report that major increases in all those areas are included in the legislation I proudly supported today.""

The appropriations package was passed by a vote of 220-207. The legislation would create good-paying jobs by rebuilding critical infrastructure, expand opportunity through homeownership and rental assistance, and promote safe transportation and public housing by providing $90.0 billion for the Departments of Transportation (DOT), Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and related agencies. Programs supported by Rep. Cleaver include:

HOME Investments Partnership Program, which is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. The program will receive $1.675 billion, $175 million over last year's total;

Public Housing Fund, which provides operating subsidies to housing authorities to assist in operating and maintenance expenses of public housing nationwide. The program will receive $8.733 billion, $282 million over last year's total;

Tenant-Based Rental Assistance program, which helps individual households afford housing costs such as rent and security deposits. The program will receive $31.04 billion, $3.7 billion over last year's total;

Project-Based Rental Assistance program, which assists more than 1.2 million extremely low- and low-income families obtain decent, safe, and sanitary housing. The program will receive $14.9 billion, 1$ billion over last year's total;

Housing for Persons with Disabilities program, which provides funding to develop and subsidize rental housing with the availability of supportive services for very low- and extremely low-income Americans with disabilities. The program will receive $400 million, $48 million over last year's total; and more.

The legislation helps to tackle hunger, lift up farmers and rural communities, rebuild our public health and safety infrastructure, and confront the climate crisis with $27.2 billion for the Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and related agencies. Programs supported by Rep. Cleaver include:

School Breakfast Expansion Grants to expand public school breakfast resources will receive $10 million, a $4 million increase above last year's total;

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which aims to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 by providing nutritious foods. The program will receive $6 billion;

Rural Electrification Loan Program, which helps electric utilities expand service in rural communities;

Multifamily Housing Revitalization Program, which helps improve and preserve the availability of affordable housing for low-income residents in rural areas; and more.

H.R. 8294 also helps to lower costs for working families, rebuild our water infrastructure, and invest in clean energy by providing $56.275 billion for the Department of Energy (DOE), the Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and related agencies. Programs supported by Rep. Cleaver include:

Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, which aims to strengthen American energy security, environmental quality, and economic security, will receive $4 billion, $800 million above last year's total;

Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, which promotes and funds research and development of advanced energy technologies, will receive $550 million, $100 million over last year's total;

Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy State and Community Energy programs, which provide funding and technical assistance to states and localities, will receive $562 million, $135 million over last year's total; and more.

The government funding package will create jobs, combat climate change, and ensure access to safe drinking water by providing $4.8 billion for the Department of Interior, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Indian Health Services. Programs supported by Rep. Cleaver include:

National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), which provides support and funding for projects exhibiting artistic excellence, will receive $207 million, $27 million over last year's total;

Clean School Bus Program, which helps states and localities transition to low and no-emission school buses;

Diesel Emissions Reduction Grant Program (DERA), which provides federal grants and rebates that protect Americans' health and improve air quality by reducing diesel emissions, will receive $150 million, $58 million over last year's total;

National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory, which provides critical emission testing services for motor vehicle, heavy-duty engine, and nonroad engine programs; and more.

""People often say that a budget is a list of values—and today's budget passed by House Democrats puts a high priority on lowering costs for working class families, investing in renewable energy and sustainable communities, and expanding opportunity for small businesses and American workers,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""As this funding package heads to the Senate, I will continue to push my colleagues to come together to meet the needs of the American people, something I think this budget does in a smart, effective, and efficient way.""

Official text of H.R. 8294 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-community-project-funding-requests-totaling-3825-million,"Rep. Cleaver’s Community Project Funding Requests, Totaling $38.25 Million, Included in Government Funding Bill Passed by House of Representatives",2022-07-20,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"July 20, 2022

The Community Project Funding would go toward affordable housing initiatives, infrastructure projects, new electric buses, and more

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 8294, a package of six government funding bills for Fiscal Year 2023, with the support of U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO). Included in the government funding package were 14 of the 15 Community Project Funding requests submitted by Rep. Cleaver, totaling $38.25 million. Funding for the 15th project is expected to be passed by the House of Representatives in a separate government funding package later this month. H.R. 8294 will now go to the Senate for additional debate.

""I couldn't be happier that 14 of my 15 Community Project Funding requests were included in the FY2023 funding package passed by the House of Representatives today,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Each of these projects will play a pivotal role in the communities they serve. With a focus on economic development, sustainability, and affordable housing, these projects are going to help us build a better, more equitable, and more sustainable future for communities throughout the Fifth District. While the funding bill is not finalized until it reaches President Biden's desk, I am confident that the House and Senate will come together to pass a bipartisan budget that meets the needs of the American people—and that includes each of these Community Project Funding requests.""

Rep. Cleaver's 14 Community Project Funding requests within H.R. 8294 include:

$4,600,000 to the City of Grandview for improvements to Blue Ridge Boulevard, which connects two ends of Kansas City and is the main commercial corridor for the City of Grandview. The funding will be used to address safety improvements, including street resurfacing, an expansion of four lanes for traffic, miles of new sidewalk, a wide multi-use path, and all ADA-compliant intersections.

$4,000,000 to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) for Low and No Emission Buses and Support Infrastructure. As the KCATA and regional transit partners seek to further incorporate battery-electric buses into the RideKC network, which covers the urban and suburban regions of the bi-state Kansas City region, this funding will help afford replacement buses and support infrastructure necessary for low and no emission buses.

$4,000,000 to the Kansas City, Missouri Public Works Department to create an 18th Street Pedestrian Plaza. The federal dollars will be used for the creation of a Pedestrian Mall on 18th Street between The Paseo Boulevard and Woodland Avenue near the Historic 18th & Vine Entertainment District. The Pedestrian Mall will be a flexible, multi-purpose assembly area that will allow for a safe and pedestrian-friendly environment for farmers' markets, festivals, outdoor concerts, and a general congregations area for the district residents when these events are not active.

$4,000,000 to Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation Department for a Bruce R. Watkins Connector Community Park Project. This project will create recreational opportunities for the neighborhoods that were fractured by the Bruce R. Watkins Highway Project, which bisects this area North and South, and the Brush Creek Flood Control Project, which bisects this area East and West. The planned improvements will remove some of the barriers caused by these projects, allowing residents to fully access and utilize the park from adjacent neighborhoods. Additionally, the planned improvements will add amenities that will attract more people to the area.

$4,000,000 to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce for a Minority Chamber of Commerce Development Center. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce will be co-located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, while jointly serving an array of minority businesses throughout the region. This joint partnership will be the first of its kind nationwide as two of the largest minority chambers unite in their missions to advance business development, workforce development, and leadership development for the betterment of people of color throughout the Fifth District of Missouri.

$4,000,000 to the Urban Neighborhood Initiative to support a housing initiative intended to build community and unlock the path to homeownership. The pilot program will provide 100 quality, affordable homes to families in underserved communities under a financing structure that promotes resident wealth accumulation through ultimate homeownership.

$3,000,000 to the City of Independence for the Independence Historic Square Streetscape. The funding will be used for street modifications, including one-way and two-way conversions, parallel parking, sidewalks, and ADA ramp improvements. Additionally, for the safety of the citizens and visitors, the streetlights will be improved as well as the addition of bicycle and pedestrian facilities and amenities.

$3,000,000 to the Raytown Parks & Recreation Department for Raytown Parks renovation and redevelopment. The funding will address the demolition and redevelopment needs of two parks in Raytown, Missouri. The Super Splash Park closed in the fall of 2016, but the remaining facilities must be demolished to allow for redevelopment projects. The Kenagy Park pond is a part of the Raytown Storm Water system to catch and hold water in major rain conditions. The dam and bank of the pond is eroding, making hazardous conditions for park patrons. The Raytown Parks Department will utilize the federal funding to install ADA-compliant restroom facilities and access trails as part of the redevelopment plan.

$3,000,000 to the City of Gladstone for an HVAC replacement at the Gladstone Community Center/Natatorium. The funding will be used to replace two indoor air quality units serving the natatorium space. Since 2008, the Gladstone Community Center/Natatorium has served as the swimming arena for the North Kansas City School District and the site for the District's 3rd-grade water safety/learn to swim project. Indoor air quality is critical to the facility to protect the participants and spectators.

$2,000,000 to Thank You Walt Disney, Inc. for the KC IMAGINE project. The funding will be used to restore this historic studio for members of the public and provide enrichment for the surrounding neighborhood. This facility will become a center for digital media training, job creation, and entrepreneurship serving low-income people in the immediate community and the KC metro.

$750,000 to Alphapointe for the Building Equitable Access to Community Opportunities Now (BEACON) Project. The funding will be used for the expansion of Alphapointe's current building as well as the creation of a new, nearby facility to provide for the continued rehabilitation and training needs of disabled job seekers and offer new health and child care services to the surrounding, underserved community.

$750,000 to reStart Inc. for the Thriving Neighborhoods through Cottage Communities Project. Cottage Communities provide affordable single-family housing for low- and extremely low-income households to prevent and end homelessness, ultimately helping to strengthen neighborhoods throughout Kansas City.

$750,000 to the Full Employment Council for a Career Technology Academy. The funding will help provide training that leads to good-paying careers in (1) Providing housing weatherization/rehabilitation services; (2) rehabilitating, weatherizing, and detoxifying housing for low- and moderate-income families; and (3) information technology, advanced manufacturing, warehouse/distribution or other occupations through classroom training, on the job training, apprenticeship training, or combinations thereof based on the career aspirations of the individual. The Career Technology Academy will enable low- and moderate-income families to earn higher incomes through training and support, help more Missourians live in energy efficient housing, and ensure safer and more sanitary housing in Kansas City.

$400,000 to SAVE, Inc. for Pride Haven. Pride Haven helps ensure homeless LGBTQ+ youth can access safe, welcoming, and accepting drop-in and overnight shelter. Youth served are 18-24 years old and find a welcoming, supportive environment as well as case management, connection to community resources, shower and laundry facilities, computer access, a safe place to sleep, and healthy meals.

Next week, the House of Representatives is scheduled to debate the second and final Fiscal Year 2023 government funding package, which is expected to include funding for Congressman Cleaver's 15th Community Project Funding request:

$1,000,000 to MRIGlobal for an expansion of their biorepository. The funding will expand laboratory capabilities and resources to advance research and development in new and investigational drugs, as well as new technologies in medical treatments. This project will increase the number of high-paying jobs and services and continue to support Kansas City's science, technology, engineering, and math education programs and workforce development.

Official text of H.R. 8294 is available here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. A high-resolution photo of Congressman Cleaver is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-house-representatives-vote-protect-marriage-equality,"Rep. Cleaver, House of Representatives Vote to Protect Marriage Equality Nationwide",2022-07-19,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 8404, the Respect for Marriage Act, to enshrine marriage equality and protections for same-sex and interracial couples into federal law. The bipartisan bill, which would codify the protections afforded under the Supreme Court's Obergefell and Loving decisions, passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 267-157.

""At a time when gerrymandered state legislatures are passing extreme laws to criminalize reproductive care and Republicans in Congress are openly calling for the Supreme Court to strike down Obergefell, Loving, and other decisions that prevent government intrusion into Americans' private affairs, it is essential that Congress take immediate action to protect these fundamental rights, including the right to marriage equality. That's precisely what the House of Representatives and I have been working to do since the disastrous Dobbs decision was announced,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""America has come way too far since the days where interracial and same-sex marriage were banned by law, and I find it gob smacking that the GOP is trying to revive these debates from the dark ages. We can't, and won't, turn back now.""

While marriage equality remains constitutionally protected, the legal logic used in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization to justify overturning the right to reproductive freedom could be used in the future to threaten other fundamental rights, including the right to marriage equality. Justice Clarence Thomas explicitly called on the Supreme Court to reconsider its previous decisions protecting other constitutional rights, including the right to same-sex marriage recognized in Obergefell. Additionally, Republican senators have voiced their support for the Supreme Court's reconsideration of Obergefell and Loving.

The Respect for Marriage Act would:

Enshrine marriage equality into federal law by requiring, for federal law purposes, that an individual be considered married if the marriage was valid in the state where it was performed. This gives same-sex and interracial couples additional security that they will continue to enjoy equal treatment under federal law as all other married couples.

Repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act, which was effectively, but not literally, struck down with the Supreme Court's landmark decisions in United States v. Windsor and Obergefell, holding that marriage equality was a constitutional right. However, this unconstitutional and discriminatory law still officially remains on the books, and the Respect for Marriage Act would repeal the statute once and for all.

Provide additional legal protections from those seeking to undermine marriage equality by prohibiting any person acting under color of state law from denying full faith and credit to an out-of-state marriage based on the sex, race, ethnicity or national origin of the individuals in the marriage. The bill also provides the U.S. Attorney General with the authority to pursue enforcement actions and creates a private right of action for any individual harmed by a violation of this provision.

The Respect for Marriage Act is supported by the ACLU, Center for American Progress, Equality Federation, Family Equality, Freedom for All Americans, GLAAD, Human Rights Campaign, National Black Justice Coalition, National Center for Lesbian Rights, National Women's Law Center and more.

Official text of the Respect for Marriage Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-announces-3925-million-community-project-funding,Congressman Cleaver Announces $39.25 Million in Community Project Funding for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District,2022-07-18,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"July 18, 2022

All Fifteen Community Project Funding Requests from Rep. Cleaver were Approved by the House Appropriations Committee for FY2023

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that the House Appropriations Committee has approved all fifteen Community Project Funding requests submitted by the Congressman. Totaling more than $39 million, the funding will go toward fifteen separate projects throughout the Fifth Congressional District focused on economic development, public safety, affordable housing, environmental justice, and more. The funding, included in the House of Representative's annual budget bill, is set to receive a vote in the whole House of Representatives later this month. Following a vote by the House of Representatives, the Senate will also need to approve the government funding package.

""As the Representative of the Fifth Congressional District, my job is to fight for policies supported by my constituents and to bring their tax dollars back home. Today, I am thrilled to announce that our congressional district is set to receive nearly $40 million in federal funding for projects that are pivotal to communities throughout Western Missouri,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""From Kansas City to Raytown, from Independence to Gladstone, the funding provided for these projects will help spur economic development throughout the entire region, and do so in an equitable, sustainable way. Whether it is electric buses that will ensure cleaner air in our communities, an affordable housing initiative for low-income Missourians, or additional development of the 18th & Vine Entertainment District, each of these projects will play a major role in the growth of our congressional district—and I'm extraordinarily proud that I was able to have all of them included in the House of Representatives' appropriations package. As negotiations between the House and Senate are ongoing, I will continue working with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure this funding remains in the final bill sent to President Biden's desk.""

After introducing Community Project Funding in the Fiscal Year 2022 government spending package, the House Appropriations Committee allowed members of Congress to submit 15 Community Project Funding requests for consideration by the committee for Fiscal Year 2023. The following criteria must have been met in order for projects to be approved:

Only state and local governments and verified 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible to receive funding.

Community Project Funding is only available for one-year funding (FY2023) and cannot include multi-year funding.

Only projects with demonstrated community support could be considered.

Only 1% of all discretionary spending in the budget bill could be utilized for Community Project Funding requests.

Congressman Cleaver's full list of approved projects includes:

$4,600,000 to the City of Grandview for improvements to Blue Ridge Boulevard, which connects two ends of Kansas City and is the main commercial corridor for the City of Grandview. The funding will be used to address safety improvements, including street resurfacing, an expansion of four lanes for traffic, miles of new sidewalk, a wide multi-use path, and all ADA-compliant intersections.

$4,000,000 to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) for Low and No Emission Buses and Support Infrastructure. As the KCATA and regional transit partners seek to further incorporate battery-electric buses into the RideKC network, which covers the urban and suburban regions of the bi-state Kansas City region, this funding will help afford replacement buses and support infrastructure necessary for low and no emission buses.

$4,000,000 to the Kansas City, Missouri Public Works Department to create an 18th Street Pedestrian Plaza. The federal dollars will be used for the creation of a Pedestrian Mall on 18th Street between The Paseo Boulevard and Woodland Avenue near the Historic 18th & Vine Entertainment District. The Pedestrian Mall will be a flexible, multi-purpose assembly area that will allow for a safe and pedestrian-friendly environment for farmers' markets, festivals, outdoor concerts, and a general congregations area for the district residents when these events are not active.

$4,000,000 to Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation Department for a Bruce R. Watkins Connector Community Park Project. This project will create recreational opportunities for the neighborhoods that were fractured by the Bruce R. Watkins Highway Project, which bisects this area North and South, and the Brush Creek Flood Control Project, which bisects this area East and West. The planned improvements will remove some of the barriers caused by these projects, allowing residents to fully access and utilize the park from adjacent neighborhoods. Additionally, the planned improvements will add amenities that will attract more people to the area.

$4,000,000 to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce for a Minority Chamber of Commerce Development Center. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce will be co-located in the heart of Kansas City, Missouri, while jointly serving an array of minority businesses throughout the region. This joint partnership will be the first of its kind nationwide as two of the largest minority chambers unite in their missions to advance business development, workforce development, and leadership development for the betterment of people of color throughout the Fifth District of Missouri.

$4,000,000 to the Urban Neighborhood Initiative to support a housing initiative intended to build community and unlock the path to homeownership. The pilot program will provide 100 quality, affordable homes to families in underserved communities under a financing structure that promotes resident wealth accumulation through ultimate homeownership.

$3,000,000 to the City of Independence for the Independence Historic Square Streetscape. The funding will be used for street modifications, including one-way and two-way conversions, parallel parking, sidewalks, and ADA ramp improvements. Additionally, for the safety of the citizens and visitors, the streetlights will be improved as well as the addition of bicycle and pedestrian facilities and amenities.

$3,000,000 to the Raytown Parks & Recreation Department for Raytown Parks renovation and redevelopment. The funding will address the demolition and redevelopment needs of two parks in Raytown, Missouri. The Super Splash Park closed in the fall of 2016, but the remaining facilities must be demolished to allow for redevelopment projects. The Kenagy Park pond is a part of the Raytown Storm Water system to catch and hold water in major rain conditions. The dam and bank of the pond is eroding, making hazardous conditions for park patrons. The Raytown Parks Department will utilize the federal funding to install ADA-compliant restroom facilities and access trails as part of the redevelopment plan.

$3,000,000 to the City of Gladstone for an HVAC replacement at the Gladstone Community Center/Natatorium. The funding will be used to replace two indoor air quality units serving the natatorium space. Since 2008, the Gladstone Community Center/Natatorium has served as the swimming arena for the North Kansas City School District and the site for the District's 3rd-grade water safety/learn to swim project. Indoor air quality is critical to the facility to protect the participants and spectators.

$2,000,000 to Thank You Walt Disney, Inc. for the KC IMAGINE project. The funding will be used to restore this historic studio for members of the public and provide enrichment for the surrounding neighborhood. This facility will become a center for digital media training, job creation, and entrepreneurship serving low-income people in the immediate community and the KC metro.

$1,000,000 to MRIGlobal for an expansion of their biorepository. The funding will expand laboratory capabilities and resources to advance research and development in new and investigational drugs, as well as new technologies in medical treatments. This project will increase the number of high-paying jobs and services and continue to support Kansas City's science, technology, engineering, and math education programs and workforce development.

$750,000 to Alphapointe for the Building Equitable Access to Community Opportunities Now (BEACON) Project. The funding will be used for the expansion of Alphapointe's current building as well as the creation of a new, nearby facility to provide for the continued rehabilitation and training needs of disabled job seekers and offer new health and child care services to the surrounding, underserved community.

$750,000 to reStart Inc. for the Thriving Neighborhoods through Cottage Communities Project. Cottage Communities provide affordable single-family housing for low- and extremely low-income households to prevent and end homelessness, ultimately helping to strengthen neighborhoods throughout Kansas City.

$750,000 to the Full Employment Council for a Career Technology Academy. The funding will help provide training that leads to good-paying careers in (1) Providing housing weatherization/rehabilitation services; (2) rehabilitating, weatherizing, and detoxifying housing for low- and moderate-income families; and (3) information technology, advanced manufacturing, warehouse/distribution or other occupations through classroom training, on the job training, apprenticeship training, or combinations thereof based on the career aspirations of the individual. The Career Technology Academy will enable low- and moderate-income families to earn higher incomes through training and support, help more Missourians live in energy efficient housing, and ensure safer and more sanitary housing in Kansas City.

$400,000 to SAVE, Inc. for Pride Haven. Pride Haven helps ensure homeless LGBTQ+ youth can access safe, welcoming, and accepting drop-in and overnight shelter. Youth served are 18-24 years old and find a welcoming, supportive environment as well as case management, connection to community resources, shower and laundry facilities, computer access, a safe place to sleep, and healthy meals.

Last year, Congressman Cleaver secured $15,156,000 in Community Project Funding for 10 separate projects across the Fifth District. This year, all of Cleaver's fifteen Community Project Funding requests were approved by the House Appropriations committee, totaling $39,250,000—which ranks 27th out of the 344 lawmakers who submitted Community Project Funding requests.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. A high-resolution photo of Congressman Cleaver is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-house-democrats-pass-legislation-protect-reproductive,"Rep. Cleaver, House Democrats Pass Legislation to Protect Reproductive Freedom",2022-07-15,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 8296, the Women's Health Protection Act, and H.R. 8297, the Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, to protect reproductive freedom nationwide and stop Republican state legislatures from criminalizing, fining, or suing Americans who exercise their constitutional right to travel across state lines to obtain a lawful abortion. U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) was a cosponsor and voted in favor of both bills. Since the Supreme Court reversed nearly 50 years of legal precedent by overturning Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to abortion, at least nine states, including Missouri, have banned abortion, with more bans expected soon.

""Since the Supreme Court made the extreme and disastrous decision to upend fifty years of legal precedent by overturning Roe and rescinding a constitutional right, we've seen numerous states, like Missouri, immediately take steps to criminalize the reproductive care that millions of Americans rely on,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""It is absolutely imperative that Democrats in Congress take immediate steps to protect a women's right to reproductive freedom and prevent states from using the law as a weapon against women and healthcare providers. As long as I am the Representative for the Fifth Congressional District, I will do everything in my power to defend a woman's constitutional right to choose, including advocating for a carve out of the filibuster to pass these critical pieces of legislation.""

Following the Texas State Legislature's passage of S.B. 8, an onerous and restrictive law banning abortion in nearly all circumstances after six weeks, in 2021, the number of people traveling to nearby states for abortions increased tenfold. While dozens of major companies have announced policies that cover travel expenses for employees seeking abortion care who are unable to obtain the service in their own state, Republican politicians have proposed extreme legislation aimed at preventing women from crossing state lines to obtain an abortion, including criminalizing those that provide assistance. One such bill was proposed by a Missouri state legislator, which would allow private citizens to sue anyone who helps an individual obtain an abortion, including out-of-state physicians and any other person who helps get the patient across state lines.

To protect women, healthcare providers, and others, the Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act would ensure no person acting under state law, can prevent restrict, impede, or otherwise retaliate against a person traveling across state lines to obtain a lawful abortion. Additionally, the Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act would prohibit interference against:

A health care provider's ability to provide, initiate, or enable an abortion service that is lawful in the state in which the service is to be provided;

A person's ability to assist a health care provider to provide, initiate, or enable an abortion service that is lawful in the state in which the service is to be provided;

A person or entity's ability to assist someone traveling across a state line for the purpose of obtaining an abortion that is lawful in the state in which the service is to be provided; and

The movement in interstate commerce of any drug approved or licensed by the Food and Drug Administration for the termination of a pregnancy.

The Women's Health Protection Act would once again make the protections afforded under Roe v. Wade the law nationwide. Before the Supreme Court's decision, Congressman Cleaver and the House of Representatives previously voted to pass the Women's Health Protection Act in September 2021; however, due to a Republican filibuster blocking a vote on the bill, it has stalled in the Senate.

Official text of the Women's Health Protection Act is available here.

Official text of the Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-national-defense-authorization-act,"House of Representatives Passes National Defense Authorization Act, Including Cleaver’s Amendment to Promote Diversity in Appraisal Industry",2022-07-14,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C) – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 7900, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, with U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voting in favor of the legislation. The bipartisan bill would authorize $839 billion in discretionary spending for national defense for Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23), give a much-needed pay raise to service members and the Department of Defense civilian workforce, make crucial investments in America's global network of alliances and partnerships to combat challenges from China and Russia, fund research and development needed to ensure the United States is prepared to confront challenges of the future, and more. The bill will now go to the Senate to be taken up for debate.

""Every year Congress must pass a national defense funding bill, and every year I try to weigh the pros and cons of the legislation to determine whether or not I can, in good conscience, support the Pentagon's budget. While there are certainly components of this legislation that I would prefer to cut out, Congress is about compromise and consensus—and I believe this year's NDAA is a fair compromise that provides our troops and their families with a substantial pay raise and additional benefits, reauthorizes defense programs critical to our national security, and gives America and her allies the strength and flexibility needed to face any challenge that should arise in the coming years,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""As this legislation heads to the Senate for additional debate, I will continue to work in a bipartisan fashion to ensure our men and women in uniform have the resources they need to defend the nation.""

Additionally, included in this year's NDAA is an amendment sponsored by Congressman Cleaver to promote greater diversity in the appraisal industry, which has acknowledged a history of bias. Cleaver's amendment would help to diversify the appraisal industry, which is approximately 98% White, by authorizing a $50 million federal grant program to promote diversity and inclusion in the appraisal profession through scholarships, training and education, implicit bias training, and more. The legislative language for the amendment comes from Cleaver's Real Estate Valuation Fairness and Improvement Act, a bill he introduced in April 2021.

""For over a year now, I have pushed my colleagues in Congress for action to address the extremely troubling and long history of bias in the appraisal industry, which has helped contribute to homes in majority-Black neighborhoods being valued at roughly half the price as homes in neighborhoods with no Black residents,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I'm incredibly grateful to my colleagues in Congress for adopting my amendment to help diversify the appraisal industry, helping to combat discrimination in the industry and, hopefully, ensure Black homeowners receive fair value for their homes. While there is still work to be done to ensure the rest of my Real Estate Valuation Fairness and Improvement Act is signed into law, this is a critical step in the right direction.""

Provisions from the FY23 NDAA that were supported by Rep. Cleaver include:

Key pay raises for service members and their families, including a 4.6% pay raise for service members and civilian personnel, 2.4% inflation bonuses for service members earning less than $45,000 per year, and a $15 per hour minimum wage for workers on federal service and construction contracts. The legislation also adds $750 million for commissary to help reduce costs for servicemembers, creates a victims compensation fund to ensure survivors of interpersonal crimes have the financial resources they need, and increases access to behavioral health services for servicemembers and their families;

Support for HBCUs and other minority serving institutions, with more than $111 million allocated for research activities at HBCUs—triple the President's budget request—and the establishment of a pilot program to increase research capacity at minority-serving institutions;

Critical Investments in science and technology competitiveness, including $275 million in additional funding for next-generation capabilities in hypersonics, electronic warfare, artificial intelligence, and software;

Supply chain security, including an assessment of dual-use technology that the Chinese Communist Party might exploit and improving risk management in Department of Defense supply chains;

Resources for America's allies and partners, including $1 billion for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, $4 billion for the European Deterrence Initiative, and more than $7 billion in funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative;

Requiring the Department of Defense to address contamination associated around military installations by expanding the list of non-essential items containing PFAS that the Department is prohibited from procuring for use within the Department, requiring the Department to send a list of essential uses for PFAS, and reporting on its progress in minimizing the use of certain non-essential PFOS and PFOA containing items;

Improving Quality of Life and Innovation Infrastructure for Servicemembers and their Families by adding $1.7 billion to address poor and failing infrastructure, such as barracks and child development centers, and creating a required percentage of investment for sustainment of child development centers to address poor and failing facilities;

Extending the authorization of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) program as well as the deadline for those who qualify to apply for SIVs. The bill would also allow Afghans wounded during their service to the U.S. government to apply for the SIV program even if they have not met the one-year minimum employment threshold; and more.

""One of my highest priorities as the Representative of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri is the safety and security of our communities and the men and women who have chosen to serve our nation in uniform,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I believe this year's NDAA gives America a comprehensive security strategy to defend our citizens and the resources needed to implement it—which is why I was proud to support the bill. As we move forward, I will continue to engage with my colleagues in Congress to ensure we get the best defense funding bill that compromise will allow.""

Official text of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-helps-house-representatives-pass-legislation-support,Rep. Cleaver Helps House of Representatives Pass Legislation to Support Veterans Exposed to Toxic Substances,2022-07-14,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Last night, the House of Representatives passed S. 3373, the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, otherwise known as the Honoring Our PACT Act, to deliver long overdue benefits to American veterans exposed to toxic substances during their service. U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) supported the bipartisan bill, which would finally treat toxic exposure as a cost of war by addressing the full range of issues impacting toxic-exposed veterans, including access to earned benefits and healthcare through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Honoring Our PACT Act is the largest veterans' healthcare bill passed in decades and would expand VA healthcare to more than 3.5 million veterans.

""The debt we owe to the men and women who have served in our armed forces is impossible to fully repay, but today's action from the House of Representatives will ensure that millions of toxic-exposed veterans receive the healthcare and benefits they desperately need and deserve based upon their heroic service to the nation,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""For years I have heard from countless Missouri veterans who have pleaded with Congress to ensure those who were exposed to toxic substances, such as burn pits and Agent Orange, during their military service, rightfully, receive healthcare for service-related injuries and illnesses. Today, thanks to the leadership of President Biden and Democrats in Congress, we're finally taking necessary steps to care of those who valiantly fought for our freedoms abroad. I'm proud to have supported this historic legislation, which will undoubtedly save veterans' lives in the years ahead.""

Although American veterans have a long history of suffering from toxic substances, the VA has not recognized the effects of exposure to these substances or provided care to those suffering from illnesses or injuries related to such exposure. The Honoring Our PACT Act would right this wrong by:

Expanding VA healthcare eligibility to Post-9/11 combat veterans, which includes more than 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans;

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

Adding 23 burn pit and toxic exposure-related conditions to the VA's list of service-connected presumptive illnesses, including hypertension;

Expanding coverage for illnesses related to Agent Orange exposure;

Including Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Guam, American Samoa, and Johnston Atoll as locations for Agent Orange exposure;

Strengthening federal research on toxic exposure;

Improving the VA's resources and training for toxic-exposed veterans; and

Setting the VA and veterans up for success by making critical investments in VA claims processing, recruiting and retaining the VA's workforce, and expanding the VA's healthcare infrastructure.

The Honoring Our PACT Act is supported by more than 40 Veterans Service Organizations, including Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Military Officers Association of America, Minority Veterans of America, Gold Star Wives of America, Disabled American Veterans, and more.

Official text of the Honoring Our PACT Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-bipartisan-bill-implement-active-shooter-alert-system,Rep. Cleaver Votes for Bipartisan Bill to Implement Active Shooter Alert System,2022-07-14,2022,2022-07,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Last night, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 6538, the Active Shooter Alert Act, to create a program similar to the AMBER Alert system so that law enforcement can immediately alert the public to active shooters in the community. U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) supported the bipartisan bill, which will now go to the U.S. Senate for a vote.

""With active shooter incidents becoming more prevalent in the United States, due to increasingly lax gun safety laws in states across the country, it is imperative that Congress give law enforcement additional tools to protect communities from mass shootings,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""As my fellow Democrats and I seek to build on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and continue to push the Senate take up proposals recently passed by the House of Representatives, such as the implementation of universal background checks, raising the purchasing age of AR-15s to twenty-one, and enacting a federal red flag law, it's important to take action where possible. The AMBER Alert system has proven effective at immediately notifying the public of a missing person, and the same type of system can be used to instantly alert the public when a shooter is at-large. Even a small step in the right direction is still progress, and I will continue to proudly support proposals like the life-saving Active Shooter Alert Act—because even one life saved is worth it.""

With active shooter incidents putting a larger strain on law enforcement officers, one of the many challenges expressed by law enforcement and independent review commissions investigating active shooter incidents is preventing additional victims from unknowingly walking into the line of fire. The Active Shooter Alert Act would help to address these concerns by:

Establishing an Active Shooter Alert Coordinator within the Department of Justice. The Coordinator would work with subject matter experts to develop best practices for local and state law enforcement to effectively improve or implement active shooter alert systems

Enabling the usage of the federal Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS) to send out active shooter alerts.

Making the Active Shooter Alert program available for local law enforcement to utilize on a voluntary basis to improve their local system of letting civilians know to stay away and stay safe. Resources provided to state and local law enforcement would include:

Guidance developed by subject matter experts with the advice of an advisory panel, such as recommendations on making alerts in the vicinity of a shooter silent so the shooter is not alerted to those sheltered in place.

Advice on what information is most effective to include in public alerts and how alerts should be sent.

The Active Shooter Alert Act has strong support from law enforcement organizations and has been endorsed by the National Sheriff's Association, Major Cities Chiefs Association, National Association of Police Organizations, Fraternal Order of Police, National Police Foundation, National District Attorneys Association, and numerous other local and state law enforcement agencies.

Official text of the Active Shooter Alert Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:49:02Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-assistant-speaker-clark-and-rep-wagner-introduce,"Rep. Cleaver, Assistant Speaker Clark, and Rep. Wagner Introduce Legislation to Reduce National Sexual Assault Kit Backlog",2022-06-30,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05) and Ann Wagner (MO-02), and Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark (MA-05), along with 28 cosponsors, introduced the bipartisan Backlog Justice Act of 2022, a bill to help sexual assault survivors obtain justice by reducing the national sexual assault kit (SAK) backlog and streamlining the DNA kit testing process. The Backlog Justice Act of 2022 would establish a National Sexual Assault Kit Backlog Database, invest in training programs to increase the number of DNA analysts that can process SAKs, and incentivize states to implement Electronic Evidence Tracking Systems for SAKs that would provide greater transparency into the testing process for survivors and their advocates.

It is estimated that there are currently hundreds of thousands of SAKs backlogged in police departments and crime lab facilities across the country. With each passing day, these backlogged SAKs run the risk of becoming contaminated as they go untested for long periods of time. Additionally, it is not uncommon for SAKs to become lost in storage facilities, ensuring that violent criminals remain at-large and sexual assault survivors lose any opportunity for long overdue justice.

""Every rape kit that is booked into evidence should be submitted to a crime lab for testing in a timely manner, period. Yet for far too long, our state-by-state patchwork of laws and the failure to implement a National Sexual Assault Kit Backlog Database has allowed violent criminals to fall through the cracks and evade accountability, while sexual assault survivors wait in perpetuity for justice that fails to come,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""As we stand with countless courageous survivors across the country who are demanding more from their elected officials, I'm proud to introduce the bipartisan Backlog Justice Act of 2022 with Rep. Wagner and Assistant Speaker Clark, which will help quickly cut down on the sexual assault kit backlog and provide greater transparency for survivors and their advocates.""

""Survivors of sexual assault depend on our justice system to get the support they need and put the criminals who assaulted them behind bars. Any backlog in rape kit testing fails the survivors who bravely reported their assault and are attempting to find justice. I am proud to introduce this legislation that will build on my efforts to eliminate the rape kit backlog, give survivors the tools they need to recover, and get violent criminals off the streets,"" said Representative Wagner.

""Survivors of sexual assault are denied justice when DNA evidence sits untested for years. The current backlog in testing the DNA in sexual assault kits results in lost and contaminated evidence and allows criminals to escape accountability. I'm proud to introduce the Backlog Justice Act to establish a national database on backlogs, increase the number of DNA analysts nationwide, and take more critical steps to eliminate the backlog and restore justice,"" said Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark.

""The Joyful Heart Foundation thanks Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II, Katherine Clark, and Ann Wagner for responding to the national crisis of untested rape kits through legislation that strengthens the nation's ability to track and ultimately end the rape kit backlog,"" said Ilse Knecht, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Joyful Heart Foundation. ""Increasing transparency and accountability through a national rape kit tracking system and enhancing DNA analyst training shows significant steps towards creating a justice system that puts survivors first. We also applaud the inclusion of programs aimed at gaining vital information and data about child sexual abuse, an epidemic that affects 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys in the United States.""

""Survivors deserve to have their sexual assault kits processed in transparent, timely manner. We are grateful to Reps. Cleaver, Clark, and Wagner for introducing the Backlog Justice Act of 2022. This bill will provide incentives for states to develop rape kit tracking systems, which empower survivors by giving them access to information about the status of their kits. It will also help reduce the rape kit backlog by increasing the capacity of DNA labs to test kits and help streamline processing of these kits nationwide,"" said Erin Earp, RAINN Senior Legislative Policy Counsel.

""I'm very impressed with the thoroughness of Congressman Cleaver's office to gather input from a variety of stakeholders in order to file this important and needed legislation. Although states like Missouri have made tremendous progress in their response to sexual assault, this bill addresses barriers that impact survivor experiences seeking justice, and how the federal government can help with consistency, accountability and transparency across state lines and jurisdictions. When we all come together to address complex social issues like sexual assault, creative solutions emerge,"" said Jennifer Carter Dochler, Missouri Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence Public Policy Director.

To cut down on the SAK backlog, the Backlog Justice Act of 2022 would:

Direct the Bureau of Justice Assistance to establish, maintain, and update a National Sexual Assault Kit Backlog Database, enabling policymakers and advocates alike to have more comprehensive data so that they can recommend and implement more precise policies and funding levels that would more effectively reduce the backlog.

Authorize training programs at the FBI laboratory to increase the number of DNA analysts available to test SAKs in crime labs across the country, as the severe understaffing of crime labs is a key factor contributing to the backlog in testing.

Shift the burden of DNA instrument calibration and validation from individual crime labs to the FBI laboratory. In many jurisdictions, untested SAKs have outpaced the resources to test, process, and profile DNA samples in crime labs. One major reason for this is because lab technicians are often having to spend outsized portions of their time testing and validating the lab instruments used in the DNA testing process. By transferring much of the instrument validation burden over to FBI labs, DNA analysts in crime labs across the country would be able to focus more of their time and resources on testing SAKs.

Incentivize states to implement Electronic Evidence Tracking Systems for SAKs to increase transparency into the testing process for survivors and their advocates.

The Backlog Justice Act of 2022 is cosponsored by Reps. Alma Adams (NC-12), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Andre Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02) Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Jim Costa (CA-16), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Suzan Delbene (WA-01), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Annie Kuster (NH-02), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Al Lawson (FL-05), Carolyn Maloney (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At-Large), Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Katie Porter (CA-45), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Mark Takano (CA-41), Dina Titus (NV-01), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Nydia Velazquez (NY-07), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

The Backlog Justice Act of 2022 is endorsed by the Joyful Heart Foundation, RAINN, Missouri Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence, American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors, Consent Action Network, Consortium of Forsensic Science Organizations, End Rape on Campus, Faith Trust Institute, and It's On Us.

Official text of the Backlog Justice Act of 2022 is available here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or matthew.helfant@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-helps-pass-historic-gun-safety-legislation-protect-missouri,Rep. Cleaver Helps Pass Historic Gun Safety Legislation to Protect Missouri Communities,2022-06-24,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of S. 2938, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a commonsense, bipartisan proposal to protect America's children, keep our schools safe, and reduce the threat of gun violence in communities across nation. The first major gun violence prevention bill in three decades, the legislation would close the boyfriend loophole, enhance background checks, strengthen mental health services for children and families, and invest in safer schools throughout the country.

""As America continues to face a rising tide of gun violence across the nation, now more than ever, it is imperative that Congress show the public that we can take action to protect our communities and save lives. Today, we took a major step in the right direction,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""While I am not pollyannaish enough to believe that this legislation will end our nation's addiction to weapons of war, it is the first gun safety legislation passed by Congress in decades—and it will unquestionably save lives in the future. As we celebrate this victory today, we must continue to push for common sense gun safety laws that will prevent the possibility of senseless and heartbreaking shootings tomorrow. If other developed nations can find a way to dramatically cut down on gun violence, then so can the United States. I remain committed to working toward solutions that will help us do just that.""

To protect Americans from mass shootings and senseless gun violence, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will:

Support State Crisis Intervention Orders with $750 million for states to create and administer laws that will ensure deadly weapons are kept out of the hands of individuals determined by a court to be a significant danger to themselves or others, and for extreme risk protection orders that have sufficient due process.

Protect victims of domestic violence by closing the boyfriend loophole, adding convicted domestic violence abusers in dating relationships to the National Instant Criminal Background Checks System (NICS).

Ban gun trafficking and crack down on straw purchases, combatting criminals who illegally evade licensing requirements and clarifying which sellers need to register, conduct background checks, and keep appropriate records. It also creates federal straw purchasing and trafficking criminal offenses for the first time, allowing prosecutors to target dangerous illegal gunrunners.

Enhance background checks for people under 21, requiring an investigative period to review juvenile and mental health records, including checks with state databases and local law enforcement for buyers under 21 years of age, which will create an enhanced, longer background check of up to ten days.

Invest in anti-violence community initiatives, with $250 million in funding for community-based violence prevention initiatives.

Strengthen children and family mental health services by supporting the national expansion of community behavioral health centers; improving access to mental health services for children, youth, and families through the Medicaid program and CHIP; increasing access to mental health services for youth and families in crisis via telehealth; and providing major investments at the Department of Health and Human Services to programs that expand provider training in mental health.

Invest in safer schools by expanding mental health and supportive services in schools, including early identification and intervention programs, school-based mental health and wrap-around services, improvements to school-wide learning conditions, and school safety.

Official text of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-supreme-court-overturning-roe-v-wade,Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on the Supreme Court Overturning Roe v. Wade,2022-06-24,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after the Supreme Court announced it has overturned Roe v. Wade.

""To say I am disappointed with the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and decades of legal precedent—supported by conservative and liberal justices alike—would be an understatement of epic proportions. I, along with tens of millions of Americans, am disgusted and infuriated that the McConnell majority on the highest court in the land has concluded that women across this nation have no right to bodily autonomy or reproductive freedom. Instead, they believe the lives and family decisions of each and every woman in America should be controlled by politicians and gerrymandered state legislatures.

""Today's decision sets our nation back over 50 years, ensuring that for the first time in generations, women today will have fewer rights than their mothers before them. Additionally, it busts down the door to the real possibility that other rights, such as access to contraception, the right to marry whomever you love, and the right to privacy, could be struck down in the near future. It is an expansion of government power the likes of which we have not seen in decades. And it guarantees that states across the country, including Missouri, which has already enacted an abortion ban with no exception for rape or incest, will seek to further criminalize the health care decisions that should only belong to a woman and her doctor.

""The Supreme Court has made it abundantly clear that its justices have become so insular that they are completely out of touch with the American people. In two days, they have released two decisions so widely out of step with the overwhelming majority of the public that one can only interpret them as a slap in face to Americans who believe in an independent, nonpartisan judicial branch of government. And because of Mitch McConnell and the ideologues on the court, that essential tenet to America's rule of law appears to be more and more impossible with each passing day.

""However, in spite of this ludicrous decision, we must not be defeated, but defiant; we must not feel powerless, but persistent. All Americans who support a woman's right to choose and the right to privacy must stand together to make their voices heard—today and every day. I will continue doing everything in my power to defend the freedoms that Americans have fought, marched, and died for—but it's going to take all of us to right this malicious wrong.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-protect-access-school-meals-missouri-children,Congressman Cleaver Votes to Protect Access to School Meals for Missouri Children,2022-06-23,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 8150, the Keep Kids Fed Act, which would ensure that schools in Missouri and across the country can continue providing meals for students despite ongoing supply chain issues. The Keep Kids Fed Act would allow the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide additional assistance to child nutrition programs by reimbursing them at a higher rate as they continue to serve healthy meals.

""As our nation and economy continue to recover from the global pandemic, like many other entities, school meal programs in Missouri and other states across the country are still grappling with supply chain shortages and cost barriers. Because no child should wonder where their next meal will come from, the Keep Kids Fed Act will make sure they don't have to by providing additional assistance so that schools in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri can continue to provide students the healthy and nutritious food they need to learn and grow strong,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I'm proud to have voted for this legislation, and as we take this important step in the fight to address child hunger, I will continue working on a bipartisan basis to support our nation's children by bolstering school nutrition programs.""

Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), Congress gave USDA critical flexibilities to help child nutrition programs continue serving children during the COVID-19 pandemic. This relief has helped feed hungry students in Missouri during school closures, virtual learning, and social distancing that disrupted traditional meal service. Without the Keep Kids Fed Act, those flexibilities provided under the FFCRA would expire on June 30, limiting schools' ability to maintain school meal programs.

To ensure America's children can continue to access school meal programs, the Keep Kids Fed Act would:

Provide nationwide waiver authority for school meal flexibilities that do not increase costs;

Allow waivers related to the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) during the summer months;

Increase reimbursement rates for the 2022-2023 school year by an additional 15 cents per breakfast and 40 cents per lunch; and

Provide enhanced support to the Child and Adult Care Feeding Program.

Official text of the Keep Kids Fed Act is available here.

A fact sheet on the Keep Kids Fed Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-historic-legislation-strengthen-mental-health-care,"Rep. Cleaver Votes for Historic Legislation to Strengthen Mental Health Care, Substance Use Disorder Services",2022-06-22,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 7666, the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act, to strengthen mental health care and provide the resources necessary to address the mental health and substance use disorder crises facing millions of Americans. The historic legislation would support Americans with mental health challenges by strengthening and expanding more than 30 critical programs that collectively support mental health care and substance use disorder prevention, care, treatment, and recovery support services in communities across the United States.

""While the global pandemic has undoubtedly exacerbated the challenge, it's been clear to anyone paying attention that America is in the midst of a mental health and substance use disorder crisis. Sadly, we still don't have the necessary mental health care infrastructure to support the millions of Americans who are in need of help. But today the House of Representatives is taking action to change that,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I was proud to support the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act because it will provide long overdue investments that ensure more Americans will have access to professional mental health and substance use disorder services—which will help to combat the opioid epidemic, a rise in youth suicide, and other increasingly prevalent mental illnesses and disorders. While this won't solve all of America's mental health challenges, it will lead to a brighter future for millions of Americans yearning for help.""

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50 percent of adults in America will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime, and one in five children has or will have a seriously debilitating mental illness. Additionally, more than two million people in the United States have an opioid use disorder and nearly 108,000 Americans died of overdose deaths from 2019 to 2020. Despite these staggering statistics, roughly 122 million Americans live in areas experiencing mental health professional shortages, leading to less than 2 percent of individuals in need of substance use disorder treatment to get the care they need.

The Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act would help to address the mental health and substance use disorder crises by:

Expanding more than 30 critical programs that collectively support mental health care and substance use disorder services across the country, including the establishment of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Behavioral Health Crisis Coordination Office, the development of crisis response best practices, additional adult suicide prevention services, treatment for those with serious mental illnesses, support for pregnant or postpartum women, and more. The bill also provides increased investments in the Community Mental Health Services Block Grants so that states, territories, and Tribes can provide additional services for adults and children with serious mental health conditions.

Cutting red tape to combat the nation's opioid epidemic by eliminating the X-waiver, which imposes arbitrary limits on insurance providers' ability to prescribe buprenorphine, and barriers in access to methadone, another evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorders. Additionally, the legislation enhances training for practitioners who prescribe controlled substances to reduce stigma and increase their ability to identify and treat substance use disorders.

Bolstering the behavioral health workforce and increasing access to mental health and substance use disorder care and coverage through additional investments in the Mental and Behavioral Health Education and Training Grants and by integrating behavioral health into primary care.

Supporting mental health awareness and substance use disorder prevention for children and young Americans with continued investment in Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Grants and increased support for a plethora of programs intended to provide services for a range of ages and mental health needs, from infant and early childhood mental health promotion to comprehensive community services for children with serious emotional disturbances.

Strengthening Medicaid behavioral health services for children by ensuring that state Medicaid programs have the resources needed to implement and build upon telehealth and in-school services that have proven to be effective strategies at increasing children's access to mental health care. Additionally, the bill would authorize federal Medicaid funding for mental health services for juveniles in pre-trial detention, conduct mental health screening prior to their release, and ensure they are not discharged without linkages to treatment in the community.

Congressman Cleaver has been a longtime supporter of strengthening mental health and substance use disorder services in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri. Last year, Cleaver re-introduced the Cady Housh and Gemesha Thomas Student Suicide Prevention Act to provide schools, teachers, and students with the tools and knowledge needed to assist children struggling with their mental health. Additionally, Cleaver secured $2.5 million this year to create a state-of-the-art substance use treatment center in the heart of Kansas City's UMKC Health Sciences District.

Official text of the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-bipartisan-package-lower-food-and-fuel-costs,Rep. Cleaver Votes for Bipartisan Package to Lower Food and Fuel Costs,2022-06-16,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 7606, the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act, a package of bipartisan bills to combat inflation and reduce costs on Missouri families. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would do this by strengthening the food and agriculture supply chain, creating greater competition in the meat and poultry industries, and expanding access to cheaper biofuels known as E-15 or Unleaded 88.

""As Missouri families are struggling to keep up with rising gas and food prices caused by the pandemic and Putin's despicable invasion of Ukraine, combatting global inflation is the top priority for myself and the rest of the Democratic Caucus in the House of Representatives,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""It is imperative that Congress come together to pass common sense legislation that will alleviate price pressures on American farmers, ranchers, and the entire agriculture industry so that those cost savings can then be passed on to hardworking families at the supermarket—and that's what the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would do. Additionally, by expanding access to significantly cheaper biofuels like Unleaded 88, we can support our corn growers and lower costs at the gas pump. That's a win-win in my book, and I'm hopeful that the U.S. Senate will not allow this bipartisan package of bills to die in the upper chamber while Missourians continue to pay the price.""

The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would:

Lower fertilizer costs in the field to lower food prices in the supermarket: Russia and Ukraine are major global producers of key components of fertilizer, and Putin's evil war has dramatically driven up the costs of fertilizer for Missouri farmers, which, in turn, has driven up the prices on supermarket shelves. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would reduce America's dependence on foreign fertilizer production and includes bipartisan bills to help farmers lower their costs with USDA funds and loan guarantees to pay for solutions, including precision agriculture, to use fertilizers more efficiently.

Lower meat and poultry costs by increasing competition and capacity in the meatpacking industry: Unfair, anti-competitive practices by the four major meatpacking conglomerates who dominate the market are driving up the price of meat and poultry, even as many of the ranchers who raise the beef, pork, and chicken are forced to accept prices that make it nearly impossible to make ends meet. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would strengthen competition in the meat and poultry industry and alleviate supply chain bottlenecks that have allowed meatpacking giants to set bad prices for producers and consumers alike.

Lower prices at the gas pump by making cheaper, cleaner Unleaded 88 more available: America-made ethanol grown by American farmers is one of our most powerful tools to fight Putin's Price Hike at the pump, and next generation biofuel infrastructure can make it even cleaner and more efficient to produce. Unleaded 88, otherwise known as E-15, is typically a cleaner, cheaper fuel option that costs, on average, approximately 40 cents less per gallon, emits less carbon pollution, and burns cleaner than regular gas. The Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act would expand access to Unleaded 88 and help deploy storage and dispensing equipment for higher ethanol blends, biodiesel, and sustainable aviation fuel.

As Democrats in Congress continue working to combat global inflation, earlier this week the House of Representatives also took action to crack down on exorbitant ocean shipping fees that have inflated prices on goods by passing the bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform Act, which will be signed by President Biden today.

Official text of the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-representatives-passes-chairman-cleavers-bill-spur-economic,House of Representatives Passes Chairman Cleaver’s Bill to Spur Economic Development in Underserved Communities,2022-06-15,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2543, the Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act, a package of several bills from the House Financial Services Committee focused on promoting racial and economic justice. Included in the legislation was H.R. 7733, the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chair of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance. The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act would stimulate greater economic development in underserved communities by reauthorizing the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program for four years and implementing reforms to ensure smaller Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) can access the program, giving support to more community development projects in the most economically distressed areas.

""According to the Federal Reserve, Black and Latino households earn about half as much as the average White household and own only 15 to 20 percent as much net wealth. As the United States continues to build back from the global pandemic, my colleagues on the Financial Services Committee and I are committed to ensuring our economic recovery is equitable and enjoyed by every community across the nation, including those who have been traditionally underserved by the financial system,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""That's why I am extraordinarily proud to have worked on the Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act, which would expand access to credit and critical financial services, support minority-owned small businesses, and strengthen Minority Depository Institutions and Community Development Financial Institutions that have a proven track record of serving our most underserved communities.""

""And I am particularly proud that my bipartisan CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act was included in the bill passed by the House of Representatives today—which would help to spur much needed economic development in rural, minority, and low-income communities by reauthorizing the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program and lowering the minimum issuance threshold to allow more CDFIs to participate in this successful program,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I have long prided myself on reaching across the aisle to get things done for the people of Missouri's Fifth District. With this bill's bipartisan support, I'm hopeful my colleagues in the Senate will quickly send it to the President's desk for signature.""

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program was created in 2010 to provide long-term capital to CDFIs across the country at no expense to American taxpayers. While the program's authorization lapsed in 2014, it has been extended on a year-by-year basis through annual appropriations legislation. As currently codified, CDFI borrowers must have a loan size of at least $100 million to participate in the program—which allows for only relatively large and often complex multi-party applications.

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act would reauthorize the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program for another four years and lower the minimum loan threshold to $25 million, enabling smaller CDFIs to access the benefits of the program and stimulate additional community development projects in rural, urban, and Tribal communities across the country.

The Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act is endorsed by Americans for Financial Reform, Asian Real Estate Association of America, Center for LGBTQ Economic Advancement & Research, Center for Responsible Lending, CDFI Coalition, NAACP, National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders, National Bankers Association, National Housing Law Project, National Consumer Law Center, National Rural Housing Coalition, National Housing Resource Center, and more.

Official text of the Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act is available here.

Official text of the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-leads-call-cao-equal-pay-house-contractors,Rep. Cleaver Leads Call to CAO for Equal Pay for House Contractors,2022-06-15,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) led a coalition of 29 House Democrats calling on the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to ensure contractors of the House of Representatives receive equal pay for equal work. Specifically, Cleaver and fellow Democrats called on the CAO to investigate and rectify disparities in pay for employees of Maslow Media Group, Inc. (Maslow), which has a contract with the House Recording Studio (HRS) to supply Television Production Specialists.

In the letter to Chief Administrator Officer Catherine Szpindor, Cleaver and fellow lawmakers wrote:

""These Maslow employees work side-by-side with HRS employees performing the same duties and responsibilities. However, the Maslow employees earn substantially less than the HRS employees and have few, if any, benefits (such as retirement, health insurance, etc.) available to them. As we understand the situation, the difference in pay between the Maslow employees and the HRS employees is the result of the contract between the Chief Administrative Officer and Maslow.""

The lawmakers continued:

""We believe that employees who perform the same work under the same conditions should be paid the same rate, whether they are direct employees of the CAO or employees of a contractor. We strongly urge you to work with us, the House Administration Committee, and the House Appropriations Committee to take the following actions.""

The actions requested by the lawmakers include:

Allocating sufficient funds under the Maslow Contract to increase the wage rates paid to Maslow employees so that they are equivalent to the rates paid to HRS employees;

Ensuring sufficient additional funding to enable Maslow to pay these increased wage rates to its employees;

Making the required amendments in the Maslow Contract to ensure that Maslow's employees receive the increases in their wage rates; and

Making the necessary changes to the contracting process to ensure that future contracts covering these Television Production Specialists provide for the payment of wages equal to the earnings of HRS employees who perform the same work under the same conditions.

""For far too long, Maslow workers have worked side-by-side with their House Recording Studio counterparts performing the same duties, yet Maslow workers make lower wages and receive less benefits. Maslow workers broadcast messages of pay equity and dignity and respect in the workplace from the House of Representatives—and now it's time the lawmakers they serve start speaking out for them and try to rectify this injustice. Thank you to Representative Cleaver and all the Members who signed on. This brings us one step closer to making sure that our members who provide vital services for the House of Representatives are paid fairly,"" said Bob Williams, President of NABET-CWA Local 52031.

Joining Cleaver's call for equal pay for House Contractors and Maslow Employees were Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Anthony Brown (D-MD), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), David Trone (D-MD), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Andre Carson (D-IN), Dina Titus (D-NV), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Marie Newman (D-IL), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Grace Meng (D-NY), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Karen Bass (D-CA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Mark Pocan (D-WI), David Cicilline (D-RI), Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Andy Levin (D-MI), Grace Napolitano (D-CA), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), Alma Adams (D-NC), Danny Davis (D-IL), and Alan Lowenthal (D-CA).

Official text of Cleaver's letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-protect-americas-wildlife-secures-nearly-21-million,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Protect America’s Wildlife, Secures Nearly $21 Million to Support Conservation in Missouri",2022-06-14,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 2773, the Recovering America's Wildlife Act (RAWA), which would provide $1.3 billion and amend the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Act to assist in conserving, restoring, and protecting wildlife and wildlife habitat in Missouri and other states, territories and Tribal lands across the United States. Included in this bipartisan bill, which was cosponsored by Rep. Cleaver, is $20,966,804 for Missouri to help manage fish and wildlife species of greatest conservation need.

""As the world faces the existential threat of climate change, it's important to remember that our planet is also facing a biodiversity crisis—and it's important that Congress take bipartisan action and provide the funding needed for wildlife and habitat conservation that will protect our most endangered species and ecosystems. With the Recovering America's Wildlife Act, that's precisely what we're doing and why I was proud to vote for this bipartisan bill,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Missourians have a rich history when it comes to wildlife conservation, and I'm thrilled that I was able to secure nearly $21 million that will go toward protecting Missouri's wildlife, making our conservation efforts more effective and cost-efficient, boosting our outdoor economy, and addressing climate change by building more resilient ecosystems—which will ensure all Missourians and their children's children are able to enjoy Missouri's wildlife as we have.""

State, territory, and Tribal governments carry out most wildlife management and conservation through their State Wildlife Action Plans, but those plans rely on consistent, dependable federal funding. While current federal funding sources, like the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Act, are inadequate, the Recovering America's Wildlife Act will provide sufficient funding to meet America's conservation needs.

The Recovering America's Wildlife Act would:

Protect threatened and endangered species: at least 15% of RAWA funding must be spent on species that are listed under the Endangered Species Act or are considered threatened or endangered under Tribal law.

Make wildlife conservation more effective and cost-efficient: RAWA funding will help states, territories, and Tribes put conservation measures in place for species before they become threatened or endangered, making species protection less difficult and less costly. RAWA will also provide much-needed funding for non-hunted species.

Address climate change by building more resilient ecosystems: State Wildlife Action Plans often include habitat restoration projects (e.g., removing invasive species, fighting wildlife disease) that simultaneously benefit forest, watershed, and coastal health. These improvements help make ecosystems more resilient to severe weather events caused by climate change, including wildfires, hurricanes, and drought.

Boost the outdoor economy: By supporting wildlife conservation, RAWA funds will boost our $887 billion outdoor economy, which already supports over 7.6 million jobs and is fueled by more than 100 million American wildlife enthusiasts, hunters, anglers, birders, and hikers. A small portion of the funds will also support wildlife education.

Official text of the Recovering America's Wildlife Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-strengthen-ocean-shipping-supply-chains-crack-down,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Strengthen Ocean Shipping Supply Chains, Crack Down on Price Gouging",2022-06-13,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of S. 3580, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, which was already passed by the U.S. Senate with bipartisan support and would help lower costs for American consumers by addressing supply chain challenges and cracking down on exorbitant fees by international ocean shipping companies. The bill would give the Federal Maritime Commission new tools that will give it a greater ability to police the market and ensure that American products and American farmers are not being overcharged or left on the dock.

""Outrageous and exorbitant fees charged by international ocean shipping companies have made critical goods more expensive than necessary for hardworking Missouri families. It's unacceptable, and it's about time that Congress came together to do something about it,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""The bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform Act will give the Federal Maritime Commission and the Biden Administration additional tools to ensure American consumers are not being price gouged at a time when families are struggling to get by. I am committed to working with President Biden and across the aisle to lower costs for the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, and the Ocean Shipping Reform Act is one important step toward that goal.""

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act builds on the House of Representatives' ongoing work to strengthen supply chains and bring down costs for working families. Later this week, the House will vote on the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act to slash prices in the grocery store and at the gas pump by supporting America's farmers and ranchers. Previously, the House of Representatives passed the Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act with Rep. Cleaver's support to combat Big Oil's excessive gas price hikes. Additionally, earlier this year, the House passed the America COMPETES Act to strengthen the United States' broken supply chains and prevent goods shortages. Lastly, the Cleaver-supported Bipartisan Infrastructure Law delivered $17 billion in funding for ports and waterways across the United States—the largest-ever federal investment in port infrastructure.

Specifically, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act would:

Stop international ocean carriers from unreasonably declining American cargo space, as determined by the Federal Maritime Commission;

Direct the Federal Maritime Commission to self-initiate investigations of ocean carriers' business practices and apply enforcement measures;

Shift the burden of proof regarding overcharging certain container fees, called ""demurrage and detention"" charges, from the complainant to the international ocean carriers to help level the playing field and improve the Federal Maritime Commission's enforcement capacity;

Improve transparency of movement of U.S. agricultural and other exports by requiring international ocean carriers to report to the Federal Maritime Commission regarding how many empty containers are being transported;

Stop retaliation by international shipping companies against exporters and importers;

Formally establish the Federal Maritime Commission Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services to improve the complaint and investigation process for American businesses seeking assistance from the Federal Maritime Commission; and

Authorize the Federal Maritime Commission for Fiscal Year 2022 through Fiscal Year 2025 and increasing the funding for the Federal Maritime Commission from $32 million in FY22 up to nearly $50 million in FY25, giving the Commission the funding it needs for an enhanced role.

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act is supported by a coalition of more than 94 key trade groups, including the National Association of Manufacturers, American Association of Exporters and Importers, National Retail Federation, American Chemistry Council, American Apparel and Footwear Association, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association, National Electrical Manufacturers Association, Association of Food Industries, Consumer Technology Association, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, and more.

Official text of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-protect-children-gun-violence,Rep. Cleaver Votes to Protect Children from Gun Violence,2022-06-08,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of common-sense gun legislation aimed at reducing gun violence. H.R.7910, the Protecting Our Kids Act, would take important steps in helping to save lives and protect our kids from the scourge of gun violence.

""Thoughts and prayers are not an adequate response to the burgeoning gun violence impacting communities throughout the nation,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""A history of inaction does not, and must not, set precedence for how Congress responds to these senseless, preventable tragedies, which is why, tonight, I proudly voted in favor of the Protecting Our Kids Act. The United States is the only industrialized nation where headlines of children gunned down in schools, churchgoers gunned down in religious sanctuaries, or shoppers gunned down in grocery stores are a weekly occurrence that don't result in concrete, widespread action – this is not acceptable. I remain steadfast in my commitment to preventing gun violence and changing the way in which lawmakers respond to these tragedies that have characterized the United States.""

The Protecting Our Kids Act is comprised of seven titles and would:

Raise the age for buying semi-automatic weapons to 21

Ban high-capacity magazines and bump stocks

Crack down on gun trafficking

Close the ghost-gun loophole

Strengthen safe storage requirements

Title I – The Raise the Age Act – raises the lawful age to purchase certain semi-automatic centerfire rifles and shotguns from 18 to 21 years old. Currently, someone has to be 21 years old to purchase a handgun, but they can purchase a semi-automatic centerfire rifle or shotgun at age 18.

Title II – The Prevent Gun Trafficking Act – establishes new federal offenses for gun trafficking and for the use of ""straw purchasers"". Under current federal law, it is illegal to make false statements on certain gun purchase forms, but these forms are only required for some firearms purchases. By creating a new federal offense, Title II ensures that straw purchasing can be prosecuted as an independent offense rather than relying on prosecuting false statements to address straw purchasing.

Title III – The Untraceable Firearms Act – closes the ghost gun loophole by amending the definition of ""firearm"" under federal law to include gun kits and partial receivers and by changing the definition of ""manufacturing firearms"" to include assembling firearms using 3D printing technology.

Title IV – Safe Storage – establishes federal standards for safe storage of firearms. The presence of unsecured firearms in the home increases the risk of unintentional and intentional shooting, particularly with minors in residence. Over 75 percent of firearms used in youth suicide attempts and unintentional firearm injuries were stored in the residence of the victim, a relative, or a friend.

Title V – The Closing the Bump Stock Loophole Act – builds on the 2018 rule, which added bump stocks to the definition of ""machine gun"", by farther defining bump stocks and listing them under the National Firearms Act so that they are regulated the same as machine guns.

Title VI – The Keep Americans Safe Act – prohibits the importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of a magazine that holds more than 15 rounds of ammunition, unless an individual falls under a particular exception. These high-capacity magazines are designed for shooting and killing en masse and have been the accessory of choice in some of the bloodiest mass shooting in America.

Title VII – Miscellaneous – contains one provision which provides that the Attorney General shall submit to the House Judiciary Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee and annual report that contains demographic data of persons who were determined to be ineligible to purchase a firearm based on the background check performed by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

""In the wake of recent mass shootings, Congress has failed to enact gun safety measures that would help save lives. Enough is enough. The Protecting Our Kids Act takes necessary action to reduce the carnage our nation has come to know all too well,"" said Congressman Cleaver.

Official text of the Protecting Our Kids Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:39:01Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-hosts-roundtable-maternal-mortality,Rep. Cleaver Hosts Roundtable on Maternal Mortality,2022-06-01,2022,2022-06,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) hosted a roundtable on maternal mortality. The roundtable discussion included qualified healthcare professionals and representatives from organizations throughout Kansas City and Missouri whose work is focused on addressing the rising maternal death rate, including physicians from Saint Luke's Heart Disease in Pregnancy Program (HDPP) and Muriel I. Kauffman Women's Heart Center, acting director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Director of Nurture KC, and representatives from March of Dimes.

The United States is now the only industrialized nation with a rising maternal death rate, ranking 31st out of 31 nations that track maternal deaths, with African Americans dying at four times the rate of White Americans. Importantly, it is estimated that up to three quarters of these deaths are preventable.

""No woman should die while giving birth,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""In the United States of America, one of the most developed countries in the world, in the year two thousand twenty-two, a rising maternal mortality rate is unequivocally unacceptable. I am thankful for the groups that joined me today for this important discussion. These are people who, each and every day, work at the intersection of advocacy and direct practice to address this critical issue. As Members of Congress, we have a moral obligation to join those already in the throes to tackle this challenge, and I am committed to working towards ending the preventable deaths of mothers.""

""It often comes as a surprise to policymakers and the public that maternal mortality is higher in the United States than in most other developed and high-income countries, despite having a highly technologically advanced health care system,"" said Paula Nickelson, Acting Director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. ""Missouri's latest data shows us that 82% of pregnancy-related deaths were determined to be preventable, so we know our efforts can make an impact. We welcome Congressman Cleaver's interest in this work and the opportunity to discuss current and needed efforts to address this issue effectively.""

""Missouri has consistently been in the bottom ten for maternal deaths for the last decade and this number continues to rise,"" said Dr. Karen Florio, Director of Saint Luke's Heart Conditions in Pregnancy Program & Chair of the Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review at MO DHSS. ""Only concerted, collaborative partnerships at the local, state, and federal level will help elevate the state of maternal health care across our state and throughout the nation. I'd like to thank Congressman Cleaver for hosting today's roundtable event which is one small step in the direction of advancing care for Missouri mothers.""

In 2020, 1 in 9 babies (11.0% of live births) was born preterm in Missouri

In 2020, 1 in 12 babies (8.7% of live births) was low birthweight in Missouri

In Missouri in 2019, 443 infants died before reaching their first birthday, an infant mortality rate of 6.1 per 1,000 live births

In Missouri in 2020, 76.5% of infants were born to women receiving adequate/adequate plus prenatal care

In Missouri in 2020, 29.3% of live births were cesarean deliveries

In 2020, about 1 in 8 women of childbearing age (13.0%) was uninsured in Missouri.

53 of 114 counties in Missouri are classified as maternity care deserts and an additional 23 counties with low access to maternity care

Missouri's public health funding is 49th-50th in per capita funding",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:13:54Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-applauds-appointment-joseph-palm-hhs-region-7-regional,Rep. Cleaver Applauds Appointment of Joseph Palm as HHS Region 7 Regional Director,2022-05-27,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) applauded President Biden's announcement that Joseph Palm has been appointed as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Region 7 Regional Director. Due to his extensive background and experience in public health in Missouri, Congressman Cleaver nominated Mr. Palm for the position earlier this year.

""Joseph Palm has demonstrated a longtime commitment to science, public health, and safety of communities throughout Missouri, and I am pleased that he will soon assume the role of Regional Director of HHS Region 7, which serves the people of Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Mr. Palm's wide array of expertise and strong record of public service and government experience is precisely what we need in our Regional Director. I look forward to working with him and our other local public health officials to ensure we're doing everything possible to protect the communities we serve.""

Joseph Palm is a native of Saint Louis, Missouri, with family roots in Wardell, Missouri. Mr. Palm received his Bachelors of Communications Studies and Masters in Public Health from Saint Louis University. In 2009 Palm became the Chief of the Office of Minority Health at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. As the Chief, Palm was the key advisor to the Director on various health matters that affect minorities; he also served as a liaison to the Missouri General Assembly and worked with all statewide local public health agencies and elected officials. Palm supervised the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) grant-funded opioid and homicide prevention program, and he has also advised and facilitated the creation of hundreds of mobile COVID-19 testing and vaccination sites across the States of Missouri in uninsured and underserved communities. Palm has also worked on the ground during the Ferguson and Joplin daily recovery operations.

Palm previously worked as the Assistant to the Chief of Staff in the City of Saint Louis Mayor's Office, as a Legislative Researcher in the Missouri State Capitol, and as an assistant to the Chief of Staff in Missouri's 1st Congressional District Office.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:09:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-introduces-legislation-withhold-lawmaker-pay-following-mass,Rep. Cleaver Introduces Legislation to Withhold Lawmaker Pay Following Mass Shootings,2022-05-26,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Following more than 200 mass shootings in the United States of America in 2022 alone, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) today introduced legislation to withhold pay of Members of Congress following mass shootings. The No Pay Until Peace Act would withhold one month's paycheck from every Member of Congress each month there is a mass shooting in the United States, constituting four or more killings in a single incident.

""For as long as I've served in Congress, despite overwhelming support for gun safety reform from the public, I've watched this institution fail time and time again to take any serious, meaningful action to address the scourge of gun violence plaguing communities across the country—the only industrialized country where this kind of gun violence exists,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Democrats have tried reaching across the aisle to make the most simple, common sense reforms like universal background checks; we've tried passing legislation on a partisan basis, only to be foiled by the filibuster; we've pushed for executive action, which inevitably gets reversed the minute a Republican enters the White House; we've tried roundtables and respectful debate; we've tried shaming and criticizing the empty remarks of my Republican colleagues following every heartbreaking massacre. Still, over the last two decades, we've seen the production of guns triple, mass shootings on a daily basis, and gun violence become the number one cause of death for American children, outpacing car accidents for the first time in decades.""

""I'm sick and tired of seeing kids murdered at school, Americans gunned down at the supermarket or in their place of worship, and Missourians slaughtered on street corners because Congress refuses to do anything about gun violence. The time for thoughts and prayers has come and gone—now is the time for concrete action. And if lawmakers aren't going to do their jobs to protect the American people, then they ought not receive any compensation following the inevitable next mass shooting. I don't doubt that many of my colleagues would rather have a campaign check from the NRA than a paycheck for their obstruction in Congress—but we can't continue with the unacceptable status quo, and this bill will, hopefully, make my colleagues across the aisle think twice before sitting on their hands while the next mass shooter plots more carnage in another community.""

According to Giffords Law Center, Americans are 25 times more likely to be killed in a gun homicide than residents of other high-income countries, and across 29 other high-income countries, 93 percent of children ages 0 to 14-years-old killed by guns are from the United States. On the 146th day of 2022, the United States has already experienced 213 mass shootings, averaging nearly 1.5 mass shootings per day.

In the 117th Congress, Democrats in the House of Representatives have passed multiple pieces of legislation to combat the increase of gun violence and mass shootings in communities throughout the nation, including the Bipartisan Background Checks Act and the Enhanced Background Checks Act. From implementing universal background checks to closing the Charleston loophole to giving the FBI additional time to complete background checks, Republicans in the Senate have rejected any and every reform passed by the House of Representatives to improve gun safety.

""No one in this great nation should have to receive a phone call with the news that their baby, mother, grandfather or any family member has been killed in a mass shooting, and I refuse to accept that there is nothing we can do to prevent such tragedies—because nowhere else in the world do they occur at this scale,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""While the loss of one month's paycheck doesn't even begin to compare to the loss of a child, every lawmaker should be held accountable for the unconscionable failure to do something, anything, that will save lives.""

Official text of the No Pay Until Peace Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:09:24Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-crack-down-price-gouging-gas-pump,Rep. Cleaver Votes to Crack Down on Price Gouging at the Gas Pump,2022-05-20,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of legislation to bring down fuel costs for Missouri families by cracking down on price gouging from Big Oil companies. H.R. 7688, the Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act, would take critical steps to combat excessive price increases and hold Big Oil accountable by empowering the federal government to fight artificially high fuel prices.

""At a time when Missourians are struggling to keep up with rising gas prices due to Putin's despicable invasion of Ukraine, Big Oil companies are taking advantage of this moment by enacting unnecessary, aggressive price increases to pad their already record profits. It's completely unacceptable to me, and it's about time Congress took action to address the price gouging,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""The Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act will help to crack down on efforts from giant corporations to exploit hardworking Americans at the gas pump and, in turn, bring down costs for consumers across the country. As Democrats in Congress work to combat unfair business practices and market consolidation, I will continue searching for solutions that will help to build on the record job creation we've seen under President Biden, while lowering costs for Missourians in the Fifth Congressional District.""

In the months since Vladimir Putin made the unconscionable decision to invade Ukraine, working families have seen higher costs, both at the pump and through the rising costs of consumer goods and commercial transportation. While Missourians feel the pain of the Putin Price Hike, major oil and gas companies are utilizing this moment to pad their record profits by deliberately keeping production low and ensuring prices remain unnecessarily exorbitant. Big Oil executives have audaciously boasted about prioritizing stock buybacks over lowering costs for families. While more than 9,000 drilling permits go unused, the seven largest oil companies have announced stock buybacks that could total $41 billion this year alone.

According to recent polling, an overwhelming 87 percent of Americans want Congress to crack down on price gouging by oil companies. To lower costs on American families, the Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act will give the President authority to issue an Energy Emergency Proclamation, which would ban excessively high gas and home energy prices. The legislation would also empower the Federal Trade Commission to prevent market manipulation, punish bad actors, and collect penalties to support the Consumer Relief Trust Fund.

""President Biden and Democrats in Congress remain laser-focused on taking action to lower costs for hardworking families throughout the United States—and this piece of legislation is not only popular with the public, but a critical step in that effort,"" said Congressman Cleaver.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-calls-action-secure-infant-formula-supply-chain-address,"Rep. Cleaver Calls For Action to Secure Infant Formula Supply Chain, Address Market Consolidation in Formula Industry",2022-05-19,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) called on President Biden to secure infant formula supply chains by addressing the growing consolidation in the formula industry, as market monopolization has led to rising costs and regional shortages. Joined by 38 other lawmakers in a letter to President Biden, Congressman Cleaver urged the White House and relevant federal agencies to use every tool at their disposal to restore competition in the formula industry and increase resiliency to secure this vital supply chain and prevent the potential for future shortages.

In the letter to President Biden, Congressman Cleaver and colleagues wrote:

""Across the country, parents are struggling to find adequate, reliable sources of baby formula. In particular, families with children who require specialty formulas due to allergies or disabilities find it nearly impossible to locate these products,"" the members wrote. ""The problem is so pronounced that the nationwide out-of-stock rate for baby formula has hit 43% -- up from between 2-8% in the first half of 2021—and is continuing to climb. Shortages exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions and inflation have resulted in the average cost of the most popular baby formula brands rising 18% in the last year. Resale prices in the secondary market are often marked up at extraordinary rates, with online sellers on eBay and Craigslist listing products for double or triple their retail prices. Price hikes and supply shortages have left parents at a loss for how to feed their children. In some instances, parents are taking desperate and even dangerous measures, such as rationing supplies or brewing their own baby formula.""

The lawmakers continued:

""Increased supplier concentration in the baby formula market is central to the shortages now facing American families. Just two companies—Abbot and Reckitt—control 80% of domestic baby formula production. This highly concentrated market is incredibly brittle, rendering it unable to absorb supply shocks that a healthy, resilient market can easily weather.""

To address market consolidation in the formula industry, the lawmakers requested that the White House and relevant federal agencies:

Use the Defense Production Act (DPA) of 1950 to ramp up production of baby formula, focusing on partnering with smaller regional suppliers to build up their production capacity. President Biden announced last night that he would invoke the DPA to ramp up production of infant formula;

Designate baby formula as a scarce product under the Defense Production Act and investigate and prosecute hoarding and price gouging of baby formula under the Act or other relevant laws;

Monitor and prosecute reports of ""scam formula"" flooding the market;

Study concentration in the baby formula market, in particular by scrutinizing past mergers, investigating anticompetitive conduct, and looking into vertical market integration that may add to supply chain fragility;

Determine whether the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) can make changes to its baby formula procurement program to purchase form a more diverse array of partners and bolster competitors of the largest baby formula producers; and

Determine whether, at least in the short term, it is possible to increase production and importation of formula from abroad. President Biden announced last night that he would also begin flying formula from abroad into the United States to increase the supply of formula.

Last night, Congressman Cleaver voted for the Infant Formula Supplemental Appropriations Act, which would provide $28 million in emergency funding to give the FDA the resources needed to remediate the formula shortage and ensure it never occurs again, and the Access to Baby Formula Act, which would provide flexibility so that WIC participants can purchase a wider variety of baby formula that are more readily available.

Joining Rep. Cleaver on the letter to the Biden Administration are Reps. Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Steve Cohen (TN-09), David Cicilline (RI-01), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Peter DeFazio (OR-04), Val Demings (FL-10), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11), Dwight Evans (PA-03), John Garamendi (CA-03), Sara Jacobs (CA-53), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Annie Kuster (NH-02), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Zoe Lofgren (CA-19), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jerrold Nadler (NY-10), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Marie Newman (IL-03), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Dean Philips (MN-03), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Brad Sherman (CA-30), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), David Trone (MD-06), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Peter Welch (VT), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

Official text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-house-democrats-take-action-address-infant-formula-shortage,"Rep. Cleaver, House Democrats Take Action to Address Infant Formula Shortage",2022-05-19,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), along with the entire Democratic Caucus in the House of Representatives, passed multiple pieces of legislation to address the infant formula shortage that is distressing families across the country. Congressman Cleaver voted in favor of H.R. 7790, the Infant Formula Supplemental Appropriations Act, which would provide $28 million in emergency funding to give the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the resources needed to remediate the shortage and ensure it never occurs again. Cleaver was also proud to cosponsor and vote for of H.R. 7791, the Access to Baby Formula Act, which would provide flexibility so that low-income families can continue purchasing safe infant formula with their Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program benefits.

""As a parent, there are few things more distressing than going to the grocery store and seeing empty shelves when you have a hungry baby at home; yet, I continue to hear heartbreaking stories from families struggling to find formula,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""In the United States of America, that should never happen—which is why I'm pleased the House of Representatives is taking immediate, important steps to ensure it never occurs again. With additional funding for the FDA and flexibility for families, it is my hope that we can quickly increase the supply of formula in stores and ensure America's babies are getting the nutrition they desperately need. While Congress must continue to investigate the various causes of this shortage, I will do everything in my power to quickly guarantee a safe, reliable supply of formula for families throughout the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri.""

The infant formula shortage was caused, in part, by a manufacturing recall, followed by the subsequent closure of a major manufacturing plant at Abbott Nutrition—which manufactures roughly 40 percent of infant formula in the United States. In February 2022, an Abbott Nutrition facility voluntarily recalled several infant formula products and the FDA issued a warning to consumers, urging them to forgo using recalled products like Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare.

The Infant Formula Supplemental Appropriations Act would provide funding to the FDA to strengthen the workforce focused on baby formula and increase inspection staff needed to speed up investigations and safety standard remediations. Additionally, the bill would provide the FDA with the resources needed to prevent fraudulent products from being placed on shelves and help acquire better data on the infant formula marketplace to prevent the potential for future shortages.

Approximately 50 percent of formula sold in the United States is sold to Americans participating in the WIC program. As the infant formula shortage has been exacerbated in recent weeks, it has had a particularly dangerous impact on women and children from underserved communities that rely on WIC benefits to purchase formula. To address these challenges, the Access to Baby Formula Act provides flexibility so that low-income families can continue purchasing safe infant formula with their WIC benefits during certain circumstances, including a supply chain disruption.

""While it was good to see the Biden Administration and Abbott Nutrition come to an agreement to restart production earlier this week, it's important that Congress provide the tools needed to accelerate the restart as quickly as possible and the flexibility necessary to ensure families can still get safe formula in the meantime,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Those are precisely the steps that the House of Representatives took today, and I'm hopeful that we can quickly get these bills to the President's desk to alleviate the concerns of parents in Missouri and all over the nation.""

Official text of the Infant Formula Supplemental Appropriations Act is available here.

Official text of the Access to Baby Formula Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-workforce-investments-fill-job-openings-and,Congressman Cleaver Votes for Workforce Investments to Fill Job Openings and Lower Costs,2022-05-18,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Last night, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 7309, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022. The bill would strengthen the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 and make long overdue investments in our nation's workforce development programs, helping to fill job openings in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District with qualified, capable workers—which will address supply chain disruptions and lower costs for hardworking Missouri families. Included in the bill was an amendment sponsored by Congressman Cleaver, along with several other Democratic lawmakers, that would authorize federal funding for competitive grants to provide employment programs for youth in communities disproportionately impacted by gun violence.

""With 8.3 million jobs created since January 2021, we have witnessed an unprecedented economic recovery from the global pandemic due to President Biden's American Rescue Plan,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""However, with job openings currently exceeding applications, small businesses in Western Missouri are pleading for more skilled workers that can fill positions critical to the success of their operations. This week, the House of Representatives took an important step toward empowering workers all over the nation to fill these essential positions—which will also help to alleviate supply chain delays and lower costs for families in the Fifth Congressional District. Additionally, I'm thrilled that my amendment supporting job training programs for young Americans in communities impacted by gun violence was included in the legislation, which will help to keep kids on the right path toward a successful future. As this bill heads to the Senate—and, hopefully, the President's desk—I will continue seeking ways in which we can support American workers and small businesses simultaneously.""

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), signed into law by President Obama in 2014, is essential to the United States' workforce development system. The law provides training and career services that help working people across the country obtain the skills needed to help employers secure a qualified workforce in a multitude of industries. WIOA includes funding for job training for adults, dislocated workers, and youth, as well as supportive services to help participants complete training and join the workforce.

Authorization for WIOA expired in 2020 under the Trump administration, and federal investment in workforce development has fallen markedly over time. While the U.S. labor force has grown by roughly half over the past four decades, federal spending on workforce development has fallen by two-thirds. Since 2002, workforce formula programs have seen a roughly 45 percent decline in federal funding, when adjusted for inflation. As a result, critical workforce development services are frequently unavailable to Americans who need them the most and small businesses struggle to find maintain a qualified workforce.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 would address these challenges by:

Fully funding WIOA programs by authorizing approximately $80 billion over six years, which will allow the workforce system to train one million workers per year by 2028;

Establishing a permanent Department of Labor program to help individuals released from incarceration transition back to employment and access sustainable career pathways;

Expanding summer and year-round jobs programs for youth;

Strengthening the quality of the Jobs Corps program;

Codifying partnerships between employers and community colleges to provide high-quality job training;

Strengthening industry and sector partnerships to better meet the needs of both employers and job seekers; and

Providing funding for innovative approaches to workforce development.

A section-by-section breakdown of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 is available here.

Official text of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-cleaver-introduces-legislation-foster-greater-economic,Chairman Cleaver Introduces Legislation to Foster Greater Economic Development in Underserved Communities,2022-05-13,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chair of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, introduced H.R. 7733, the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act. The bill would stimulate greater economic development in underserved communities by making the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program permanent and implementing reforms to ensure smaller Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) can access the program, which would support more community development projects in economically distressed areas. Through the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program, Treasury makes long-term capital available to CDFIs to make substantial investments in the nation's most distressed communities.

""One of the largest barriers to community development in rural and urban America is lack of access to affordable financing —and it's crushing communities that are desperate for a lifeline,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""This legislation would help to uplift economically distressed areas by strengthening the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program—which has a long track record of positive development in underserved areas. By making the program permanent and lowering the minimum loan threshold so more CDFIs can participate, we can ensure that more communities can benefit from this effective program. I'm thankful for Senators Smith and Rounds for introducing this bipartisan bill in the Senate, and as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Development, I will continue gathering support for the legislation from my colleagues in the House of Representatives until it becomes law.""

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program was created in 2010 to provide long-term capital to CDFIs across the country at no expense to American taxpayers. While the program's authorization lapsed in 2014, it has been extended on a year-by-year basis through annual appropriations legislation. As currently codified, CDFI borrowers must have a loan size of at least $100 million to participate in the program—which allows for only relatively large and often complex multi-party applications.

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act would permanently authorize the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program and lower the minimum loan threshold to $25 million, allowing smaller CDFIs to access the benefits of the program and stimulate increased community development projects in rural, urban, and tribal communities across the country.

The CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act is endorsed by the Independent Community Bankers of America, National Association of Federally Insured Credit Unions, CDFI Coalition, Community Reinvestment Fund, USA (CRF), Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders, National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), and Lendistry.

Official text of the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Improvement Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-strengthen-workers-compensation-benefits-federal,Rep. Cleaver Votes to Strengthen Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Federal Firefighters,2022-05-11,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver voted to pass H.R. 2499, the Federal Firefighters Fairness Act, which would strengthen access to workers' compensation benefits for federal firefighters, including those in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, who become injured or ill on the job. Congressman Cleaver was also a cosponsor of the legislation.

""Each and every day, firefighters in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District selflessly risk their own health and safety by routinely exposing themselves to toxic substances and other workplace hazards as they do their best to protect our communities,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""While Missouri firefighters and their families can access critical compensation benefits, firefighters employed by the federal government don't have the same opportunities for medical and financial relief, despite facing nearly identical risks. That's wrong—and I was proud to be a cosponsor of the bipartisan Federal Firefighters Fairness Act to close this loophole and ensure federal firefighters can access the benefits they have earned and deserve.""

Firefighters are at heightened risk of contracting occupational illnesses because of routine exposure to smoke, heat, physical stress, toxic substances, and other work-related hazards. While most states provide firefighters who seek workers' compensation benefits for work-related illness and injury with the presumption that certain diseases are work-related, roughly 15,000 firefighters employed by the federal government cannot access these same benefits. This leaves federal firefighters and their families without the workers' compensation protections that they deserve and that other firefighters around the country are already guaranteed.

The Federal Firefighters Fairness Act would fix this loophole and make it easier for federal firefighters to secure workers' compensation benefits under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act by, among other actions, providing a science-based presumption that certain illnesses should be deemed work-related.

The Federal Firefighters Fairness Act is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Fire Fighters, and American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).

A Fact Sheet of the Federal Firefighters Fairness Act is available here.

Official text of the Federal Firefighters Fairness Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-225000-grant-funding-neighborworks-america,"Rep. Cleaver Announces $225,000 in Grant Funding from NeighborWorks America to Develop Affordable Housing in Kansas City",2022-05-06,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced $225,000 in federal grant funding will go to the Westside Housing Organization, Inc. in support of efforts to develop and preserve affordable housing, revitalize and sustain neighborhoods, and create good-paying jobs in Kansas City, Missouri.

""Since the beginning of my career, I have worked towards improving access to not only affordable housing, but the revitalization of vibrant communities in which neighbors contribute to each other's success. The programs of Westside Housing Organization have proven to be exemplary and are precisely the kind of work needed to rebuild underserved neighborhoods into thriving communities. I'm proud to have supported this federal funding, and I look forward to working with the Westside Housing Organization to expand access to affordable, sustainable housing throughout Kansas City,"" said Congressman Cleaver.

Westside Housing Organization, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit corporation that focuses on rebuilding and revitalizing communities in Kansas City with particular emphasis on robust sustainable neighborhoods.

The grant comes from the NeighborWorks America program, which was started by Congress in 1978 to help create communities of opportunity. There are currently 250 local and regional nonprofit partners in the NeighborWorks America organization. Initiatives include providing solutions to community development and affordable housing challenges through financial and grant support in addition to more technical assistance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-applauds-biden-administrations-historic-proposed,Congressman Cleaver Applauds Biden Administration’s Historic Proposed Updates to the Community Reinvestment Act,2022-05-05,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. federal regulators announced a proposal to strengthen and modernize the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to ensure regulated financial institutions are better servicing the credit needs of American communities, including rural, low-, and moderate-income communities. The CRA requires federally chartered or insured financial institutions to serve the needs of their respective communities in order to pass examinations conducted by federal banking regulators. Last November, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chair of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, called on federal regulators to work in conjunction to strengthen CRA requirements in a way that would incentivize more public and private investment, provide greater access to banking services, address affordable housing shortages across the nation, and better reflect community need.

""As a member of the House Committee on Financial Services, I have been calling on regulators to update CRA regulations for years now so that underserved communities desperate for banking services can access the credit and investments needed to grow stronger—and I'm thrilled to see the Biden Administration moving forward,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""The proposed rule announced today—which has been created with feedback from critical stakeholders and will be subject to additional public input in the months ahead—will help to address our nation's affordable housing crisis and support low- and moderate-income communities by expanding access to credit, investment, and basic banking services, ensuring local banks have internet and mobile banking, and maintaining a unified approach from the federal government, rather than a bureaucratic patchwork of government oversight. From the urban core to the most rural towns, updating the CRA will benefit communities all across Missouri, and I look forward to continuing my work with the Biden Administration to ensure the financial system is not leaving disadvantaged communities behind.""

According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve), the proposal would:

Expand access to credit, investment, and basic banking services in low- and moderate-income communities by promoting community engagement and financial inclusion, emphasizing smaller-value loans and investments that have a major impact and are more responsive to the needs of low- and moderate-income communities, and allowing regulators to better evaluate how banks are performing in the communities in which they operate;

Adapt to changes in the banking industry, including internet and mobile banking, by updating CRA assessment areas to include activities associated with online and mobile banking, branchless banking, and hybrid models;

Provide greater clarity, consistency, and transparency through the adoption of a metrics-based approach to CRA evaluations of retail lending and community development financing, which includes public benchmarks, for greater clarity and consistency. Additionally, it would also clarify eligible CRA activities, such as affordable housing, that are focused on rural, low-, and moderate-income communities; and

Tailor CRA evaluations and data collection to account for bank size and type as a recognition of the differences in bank size and business models, ensuring that the smallest banks can continue to be evaluated under the existing CRA regulatory framework with the option to be evaluated under aspects of the new proposed framework.

Congress passed the CRA in 1977 with the specific intention of reversing the discriminatory practice of redlining and ensuring that banks serve the needs of communities that have been historically excluded from fair and equitable lending. Still, the lack of equitable access to credit by communities of color persists to this day. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), following a high of 49.7% in 2004, Black homeownership fell to 40.6% in 2019—lower than it was when the Fair Housing Act was passed in 1968—demonstrating the need for Congress to revamp and modernize the CRA to ensure the law is effective in the changing financial landscape of the 21st century.

In April 2021, Chair Cleaver joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) to introduce the American Housing and Economic Mobility Act, which would take a major step toward addressing the effects of decades of housing discrimination on communities of color. Specifically, the bill would hold all financial institutions, including fintech firms and other nontraditional banks, accountable for providing access to credit by expanding the CRA to cover non-bank mortgage companies, promoting investment in activities that help low- and middle-income communities, and strengthening sanctions against financial institutions that fail to follow regulations under the CRA.

In November 2021, Chair Cleaver delivered a letter to the heads of the FDIC, OCC, and Federal Reserve, encouraging the bank regulators to work in partnership to modernize outdated CRA regulations so that the historic law can remain effective. In the letter, Cleaver noted that ""Non-White households' access to affordable home mortgage loans today fall far short of what CRA's champions originally envisioned"" and that ""quantitative and qualitative evaluation of efforts to increase racial equity should, therefore, be part of CRA assessments.""

Missourians can find more information on the proposed rule from the FDIC, OCC, and Federal Reserve here, and provide their opinion with a comment on the proposed rule here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-introduce-resolution-honoring-americas-teachers,"Reps. Cleaver, Graves Introduce Resolution Honoring America’s Teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week",2022-05-04,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced a House resolution recognizing the roles and contributions of teachers across the United States. The resolution gives thanks to the teachers of America and encourages students, parents, school administrators, and public officials to raise public awareness and show appreciation for the unquantifiable contributions of teachers in every community.

""Without fail, nearly every American can point to a teacher who has had a profound impact on their life. For me, that teacher was Mrs. Alma Holland, whose English, Literature, and Speech class ignited my passion for using language to bring people together,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""In the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, there are countless teachers like Mrs. Holland, who give their heart and soul every day to the children they serve so that each child may reach their full potential and realize their highest dreams. As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and recognize the indelible mark that teachers have on each and every community across the country, I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with Congressman Graves thanking teachers for all their hard work, patience, and devotion to bettering the lives of their pupils, which benefits our nation as a whole. This week and every week, we are grateful for your service.""

""This week is a great opportunity to say thank you to our teachers,"" said Rep. Graves. ""They take on an incredibly tough job that often requires great sacrifice. Our teachers put in an incredible amount of time, effort, and even their own money into preparing future generations for success. I'm proud to take a moment to recognize America's teachers during this Teacher Appreciation Week and to simply say thanks for helping shape me and countless others into who we are today.""

Official text of the resolution is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-issues-statement-report-supreme-court-set-overturn-roe-v,Rep. Cleaver Issues Statement on Report that Supreme Court is Set to Overturn Roe v. Wade,2022-05-03,2022,2022-05,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after media reports of a draft Supreme Court decision overturning the Roe v. Wade decision:

""Today, tens of millions of Americans woke up to the realization that a constitutional right they've maintained for half a century may soon be stripped from them entirely, begging the question: what next?

""If the Supreme Court ultimately makes the outrageous decision to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling, setting women's rights back nearly five decades, America will soon be less free, less safe, and extraordinarily more divided than at any point since Roe was first decided.

""Such a decision would not only contradict decades of legal precedent and shatter whatever confidence is left in the highest court in the land, it would, most importantly, strip women of their bodily autonomy and unquestionably lead to unnecessary deaths of young women, particularly women of color, due to forced pregnancy.

""It is important that the women of America understand this is only a draft ruling, and that reproductive freedom still exists in America—for now. If you are in need of health care services, you can still receive reproductive care while the Supreme Court hopefully reconsiders the ridiculously misguided draft opinion released last night.

""I was proud to support the House-passed Women's Health Protection Act, and I will continue to urge my colleagues in the upper chamber to immediately pass this bill to protect reproductive freedom and a woman's right to quality reproductive care across the country.

""This potential assault on our constitution and the rights of women everywhere is so out of step with legal precedent, popular opinion, and the past statements of the justices themselves that this could only be considered a political ruling to push a partisan agenda. Failure to respond to such an egregious decision would only lead to future attacks on the civil rights that Americans hold dear.

""As we continue the fight to uphold reproductive freedom for the women of America, we should also be greatly concerned and alarmed about the status of voting rights, gay marriage, fair housing, and equitable treatment of immigrants, to name a few inalienable rights, which are now in the intensive care unit of the Supreme Court.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:29:07Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-multiple-bills-support-ukraine-against-putins,Congressman Cleaver Votes for Multiple Bills to Support Ukraine Against Putin’s Aggression,2022-04-28,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 6930, the Asset Seizure for Ukraine Reconstruction Act, and S. 3522, the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act, to support Ukraine as the Ukrainian people continue their months-long campaign to repel Vladimir Putin's unprovoked invasion. The Asset Seizure for Ukraine Reconstruction Act would establish a constitutional process for seizing the assets of corrupt Russian oligarchs to support the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine. The Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act would temporarily waive certain requirements related to the President's authority to lend or lease defense articles if the defense articles are intended for Ukraine's government and necessary to protect civilians in Ukraine from the Russian military invasion.

""As long as Vladimir Putin and the Russian military carry on their ruthless campaign to oppress a free and democratic Ukraine, the American public will stand united with the Ukrainian people—and that's what Congress has demonstrated, yet again, this week,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""By seizing and selling off the yachts, jets, mansions, and other corrupt spoils of Russian oligarchs, America can ensure that Russia's financial corruption will no longer fuel Putin's unconscionable war—but rather provide economic, defense, and humanitarian assistance needed to help defend and rebuild Ukraine. And with additional lend-lease authority, President Biden can ensure a quicker, more seamless process to provide Ukraine's military with the tools necessary to defend their homeland. I'm proud to have supported these important pieces of legislation with the overwhelming majority of my colleagues in the House of Representatives, and I will continue to push for additional assistance to support Ukrainians in their fight for freedom moving forward.""

The Asset Seizure for Ukraine Reconstruction Act will establish a federal interagency working group to identify mechanisms for seizing sanctioned Russian oligarchs' property valued at over $2 million. The sale of these assets will be used to fund relief for the people of Ukraine, including:

Post-conflict reconstruction;

Military, humanitarian, and economic assistance;

Refugee support and resettlement; and

Technology ensuring the free flow of information in Ukraine.

The Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act is a revival of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Lend-Lease policy enacted in March 1941, which helped win the second World War. The bill will significantly enhance existing lend-lease authorities available to President Biden, while also waiving several current requirements, ensuring that shipments of urgently needed weapons systems, ammunition, and military assistance in other forms arrive in Ukrainian hands faster and more seamlessly.

This week's votes follow several key steps taken by Congressman Cleaver and the House of Representatives to isolate Russia from the global economy and support Ukraine's defense, economy, and refugees. Some of these steps include:

Suspending permanent normal trade relations with Russia;

Banning the import of Russian oil and energy products;

Reauthorizing the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act;

Passing the legislation to ensure perpetrators of war crimes against Ukraine can be brought to justice; and

Providing $13.6 billion in humanitarian, military, and economic assistance for the people of Ukraine.

""We cannot allow—and the American people will not accept—a corrupt dictator simply walking into another nation's homeland and claiming it as their own,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Because of the remarkable courage of the Ukrainian people and the unity demonstrated by most of the free world, the Russian military has faced tremendous costs for their despicable decision to invade Ukraine and slaughter innocent civilians. We must continue to ensure Putin and his cronies pay a price for their evil aggression, which is precisely why I supported these bills.""

Official text of the Asset Seizure for Ukraine Reconstruction Act is available here.

Official text of the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bill-introduced-rep-cleaver-support-religious-liberty-ukraine-passes,Bill Introduced by Rep. Cleaver to Support Religious Liberty in Ukraine Passes House of Representatives,2022-04-27,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 496, the Ukraine Religious Freedom Support Act, which was introduced by U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Joe Wilson (R-SC). The legislation would hold Russia accountable for violations of religious liberty during its illegal occupation of Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine since 2014, as well as during its current invasion.

""No matter where you live or what religious tradition you practice, America will always stand up to defend religious liberty,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""As Dictator Putin continues his vile campaign to subdue a free and sovereign nation, it is imperative that the United States do everything possible to hold him and Russia accountable for their repression of religious freedom, past and present. I'm thankful to Representative Wilson for his partnership in introducing this critical piece of legislation to support religious minorities in Ukraine, my colleagues in the House of Representatives for passing it with bipartisan support, and call on my colleagues in the Senate to immediately send it to President Biden's desk for signature.""

""For over 8 years, Putin's illegal occupying forces in sovereign Ukraine have oppressed religious minorities and subjected them to kidnappings, torture, forced psychiatric examinations, and imprisonment. The United States must continue its long-standing tradition of standing against religious persecution around the globe and hold Putin accountable for his crimes against humanity. I was grateful to work with friend and colleague, Emanuel Cleaver, to pass this bipartisan legislation,"" said Rep. Wilson.

Since 2014, and before Vladimir Putin's all-out invasion of Ukraine in February, Russia has illegally occupied Crimea and parts of Eastern Ukraine, causing the deaths of thousands of civilians and military personnel. During that time, multiplereports have surfaced of Russia's persecution of Christians, Muslims, and other religious minorities. As Russia continues to fight and hold territory in Eastern Ukraine, additional reports of atrocities have arisen.

To hold Russia accountable for their egregious repression of religious freedom, the Ukraine Religious Freedom Support Act will require the U.S. State Department to take Russian violations of religious liberty in Ukrainian territory into consideration during its annual review of religious freedom in Russia, required by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. Should the Department determine that Russia is a country of particular concern for religious freedom, the President may take additional actions to hold the Russian Federation accountable.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-cleaver-holds-field-hearing-fire-safety-federally-assisted,"Chairman Cleaver Holds Field Hearing on Fire Safety in Federally Assisted Housing, Calls on Congress to Pass Housing Provisions from Build Back Better Act",2022-04-20,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(New York City, NY) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, held a field hearing in Bronx, New York, to examine ways in which Congress can address fire safety deficiencies in federally assisted housing. Following the tragic fire at Twin Parks North West apartment building, which took the lives of 17 Bronx residents, including 8 children, Chairman Cleaver and Financial Services Committee Democrats discussed the need for local, state, and federal officials to ensure proper inspections are occurring, life-saving laws are being enforced, and property owners are maintaining safe and decent housing. Additionally, Chairman Cleaver called on Congress to improve the health and safety of residents by advancing Committee legislation, including the housing provisions in the House of Representatives-passed Build Back Better Act, which contains historic investments to preserve and improve the condition of federally assisted housing.

""Federal, state, and local governments have an obligation to ensure the housing provided to American families is safe, sanitary, and up to sufficient standards. Yet, for far too long, elected officials at every level of government have failed to make the necessary investments, keep up with inspection and technology standards, or enforce life-saving laws that could have prevented tragedies like the one at Twin Parks North West,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Year after year, we've seen health and safety standards decline in federally assisted housing across the country. That's unacceptable, and it's time for Congress to take action to protect the health and safety of residents. We can start by passing legislation that includes desperately needed housing support in the House-passed Build Back Better Act.""

""The fire at Twin Parks devastated our community and the deaths of our peers and neighbors will long be mourned,"" Rep. Torres said. ""In light of this tragedy, we must take action to ensure that all federally assisted housing units are in line with the regulations of long-standing fire legislation. Since January, I have been introducing legislation to prevent such a tragedy from ever repeating itself. As the House works to pass this legislation, it is crucial that we continue to have conversations about fire safety in the United States, with a special focus on protecting vulnerable populations who reside in federally assisted housing.""

On January 9, 2022, a fire broke out at the Twin Parks North West apartment building, leading to the deadliest fire in New York City in three decades. Just days before, on January 5, 2022, a separate fire in public housing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, took the lives of 12 residents, including children. In both instances, fire safety concerns had previously been identified. According to data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), health and safety inspection scores in federally assisted housing have been declining for years.

In November 2021, the House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act, which contained $150 billion to expand access to decent, safe, and affordable housing, including $65 billion to repair and modernize public housing and $5 billion to address health and safety hazards in low-income housing. The Build Back Better Act also contained multiple bills from Financial Services Committee Democrats to increase safety standards, including funding to address health and safety hazards in federally assisted housing. At the field hearing convened by Chairman Cleaver today, members of the committee examined multiple separate bills to address safety deficiencies in federally assisted housing, such as the Housing Temperature Safety Act, the Twin Parks North West Fire Safety Act, the Choice in Affordable Housing Act, and the Housing Inspections Accountability Act.

""No child or mother or father should lose their life in federally assisted housing due to neglect. We have the tools needed to prevent such unnecessary tragedies from ever being repeated—but we must find the political will to enact solutions that provide the funding and oversight essential to saving lives,"" said Congressman Cleaver.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-highlights-local-impact-3-million-community-project-funding,Rep. Cleaver Highlights Local Impact of $3 Million in Community Project Funding for LISC Greater Kansas City’s Regional Housing Initiative,2022-04-12,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) hosted a press conference to highlight the $3 million in Community Project Funding he was able to secure to help provide affordable housing in low-income neighborhoods, as well as home ownership education, down payment assistance, and minor home repair, through the Local Initiatives Support Corporation's (LISC) Regional Housing Initiative. LISC is launching the initiative in partnership with the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and area stakeholders. The Regional Housing Initiative is one of ten community projects Congressman Cleaver championed and was able to secure federal funding for that will directly benefit residents of the Fifth Congressional District.

""I've said it many times before – having a roof over your head, a place to call home, and a sense of community is central to your somebodiness,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Which is why I am thrilled to have secured $3 million in community project funding to support the critical work carried out by LISC Greater Kansas City through their Regional Housing Initiative. This federal investment will increase access to affordable housing and programming that makes home ownership achievable for individuals and families throughout the region.""

""When we invest in a sound infrastructure of affordable housing, we are really investing in a whole range of opportunities for families and communities to thrive,"" said Denise Scott, LISC President. ""We're grateful for Rep. Cleaver's leadership to bring vital housing resources to Kansas City and to advance a collaborative strategy that will benefit local residents, create jobs, and support a stronger, more inclusive regional economy.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-highlights-local-impact-25-million-community-project,Rep. Cleaver Highlights Local Impact of $2.5 Million in Community Project Funding for University Health,2022-04-11,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) hosted a press conference to highlight the $2.5 million in Community Project Funding he was able to secure to create a state-of-the-art substance use treatment center in the heart of Kansas City's UMKC Health Sciences District. The Center for Recovery and Wellness is one of ten community projects Congressman Cleaver championed and was able to secure federal funding for that will directly benefit residents of the Fifth Congressional District.

""I am incredibly thankful to have secured $2.5 million in Community Project Funding for University Health – an institution that is fully focused on strengthening the communities it serves,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""This significant federal funding will not only bring The Center for Recovery and Wellness to life, creating a space for those receiving help to feel empowered, it will also equip health care leaders of the future with the necessary experience and knowledge needed to compassionately care for individuals and families and aid in the treatment and prevention of substance use disorders.""

""Congressman Cleaver's work in securing funding for this project is just what we need to kick off a campaign that will make this renovation a reality. He understands how mental and physical health go hand in hand, and how a center like the one we plan on building can change not only the people who get help, but their families, and their community,"" said Charlie Shields, University Health President and CEO. ""The Center for Recovery and Wellness will allow University Health to double its provider team, and expose medical providers of the future to effective interventions for the prevention and treatment of substance use disorders.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-applauds-fhfas-suspension-foreclosures-borrowers-applying,Rep. Cleaver Applauds FHFA’s Suspension of Foreclosures on Borrowers Applying for Relief Through Homeowner Assistance Fund,2022-04-08,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, applauded the Federal Housing Finance Agency's (FHFA) announcement that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will require servicers to immediately suspend foreclosure activities for up to 60 days if the servicer has been notified that a borrower has applied for assistance under the Department of Treasury's Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF).

""As America continues to battle economic instability brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's ruthless invasion of Ukraine, President Biden and his administration are doing everything possible to keep hardworking families in their homes—and I couldn't be more supportive of that effort,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""While Missouri and other states throughout the Union continue to process emergency homeowner assistance provided by Congress through the American Rescue Plan, it's critical that servicers give struggling homeowners the time necessary to be evaluated for relief through the Homeownership Assistance Fund. This step from the FHFA will ensure Missouri families don't unnecessarily lose their homes during that process.""

""FHFA is committed to sustainable homeownership. Today's action will provide borrowers who need temporary mortgage assistance with additional time to be evaluated for relief through their state's approved Homeownership Assistance Fund,"" said FHFA Acting Director Sandra L. Thompson.

Although many homeowners have benefited from mortgage forbearance or foreclosure moratoriums, there are ongoing concerns about homeowners' ability to resume mortgage payments and repay past due amounts. The American Rescue Plan Act, supported by Congressman Cleaver, provided nearly $10 billion for states, territories, and tribal entities to provide financial relief to homeowners through the Homeowner Assistance Fund administered by the Department of Treasury. States can use the funds to assist homeowners with certain qualified expenses related to their housing costs in order to prevent mortgage delinquency, default, foreclosure, displacement or loss of utility or home energy services. Missourians who are still in need of emergency homeowner assistance can apply through the Missouri State Assistance For Housing Relief (SAFHR) for Homeowners program here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-announces-27-million-bipartisan-infrastructure-law,Congressman Cleaver Announces $27 Million From Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for Kansas City Transit,2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) will receive more than $27 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in Fiscal Year 2022 to maintain, upgrade, and expand local transit in the Kansas City Region. Congressman Cleaver helped deliver the funding with his support for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and it comes as part of the law's historic $20 billion investment in transit projects across the nation over the next five years.

""Today's announcement is just the latest example of how President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for Kansas Citians, Missourians, and Americans across the nation as we keep working to build a better America for all,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""When I think about this monumental infusion of federal funding, I see brand new electric buses, upgraded transit facilities, and, of course, good-paying jobs for workers who will be responsible for building, maintaining, and operating the future of transit in Kansas City. That's going to lead to lower emissions, cleaner air, and stronger communities that will continue to grow in an equitable fashion. I am proud to have helped bring this funding home to the Fifth Congressional District where it will be put to good use as a foundational component of the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor.""

""We are grateful that Congressman Cleaver is committed to investing in public transportation that is critical to a thriving community,"" said Robbie Makinen, President and CEO of the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. ""He understands that public transit is the one thing that connects all the dots. Whether it's jobs, education, healthcare, or affordable housing, public transportation and related infrastructure is the great equalizer.""

The $27 million in funding will allow the KCATA to buy new electric buses, address repair backlogs, modernize fleets, and transition to modern technologies that reduce carbon emissions and lessen harmful pollution. Additionally, these funds will help build on the record number of jobs already created under President Biden due to Buy American requirements that apply to steel, iron, and other materials necessary for transit projects.

More information on this $27 million in federal funding from the Cleaver-supported Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-additional-relief-funding-missouris,Congressman Cleaver Votes for Additional Relief Funding for Missouri’s Restaurants and Small Businesses,2022-04-07,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3807, the Relief for Restaurants and Other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act. A cosponsor of the legislation, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of the bill, which would provide $55 billion in urgently needed relief for small businesses throughout Missouri and across the country as they continue to recover from the global pandemic.

""It's a cliché because it's true: small businesses are the backbone of America's economy. And their success is crucial to ensuring our historic economic recovery remains equitable and on track"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""When Democrats passed the American Rescue Plan last March, one of the core components was the Restaurant Revitalization Fund—which provided a lifeline to small businesses throughout the Show Me State, allowed them to keep workers on payroll, and kept local economies from enduring a slow and stagnant recovery from the global pandemic. While this lifeline has helped power small businesses for more than a year, as the pandemic persists, it's clear that more must be done support restaurants and other small businesses that have been hardest hit or unable to access relief funds. That's why I cosponsored this legislation and why I'm happy to see the House of Representatives pass it with bipartisan support.""

The Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) was established through the Cleaver-supported American Rescue Plan Act and distributed $28.6 billion to restaurants across the country—including $284,160,480 to 1,200 businesses in Missouri. While the RRF was able to assist more than 101,000 businesses across the country, due to its popularity, the program quickly exhausted funding before more than 170,000 eligible businesses could access relief. The Relief for Restaurants and Other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act will provide $42 billion to replenish the RRF so that these restaurants can apply for assistance.

Additionally, the legislation would take action to support other struggling small businesses by:

Providing $13 billion to establish the Hard Hit Industries Award Program, which will assist Missouri small businesses with 200 or fewer employees that have experienced 40 percent or more in lost revenue due to the pandemic.

Updating the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program, of which Congressman Cleaver was a strong supporter, to provide Missouri entertainment venues with more time and flexibility to use federal relief funds.

""As we continue to build on the historic job and small business creation that has occurred during the Biden administration, I will always look for ways in which Congress can support the mom-and-pop restaurants and truly small businesses that make Kansas City and America truly great,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I cosponsored the Relief for Restaurants and Other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act because this legislation will do that, and I'm hopeful the Senate will quickly send the bill to President Biden's desk for signature.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-highlights-77-million-lower-costs-and-increase,Congressman Cleaver Highlights $77 Million to Lower Costs and Increase Energy Efficiency for Missouri Households,2022-04-05,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) applauded the Department of Energy's announcement that Missouri will receive a $77 million investment from the Weatherization Assistance Program to weatherize households, increase energy efficiency, and lower utility costs for Missouri families. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, otherwise known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, that Congressman Cleaver helped pass expanded funding for the Weatherization Assistance Program so more working families can have their homes retrofitted, which will increase energy efficiency and lower monthly energy bills. The Program's home retrofitting includes installing insulation, updating heating and cooling systems, upgrading electrical appliances, and making other commonsense changes to keep homes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer with less energy usage and lower costs for Missourians.

""At a time when Missourians are struggling with higher energy prices due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and subsequent economic sanctions, I'm happy to see the Department of Energy announce historic investments in the Weatherization Assistance Program, which will help to retrofit the homes of hardworking Missouri families and lower utility bills thanks to greater energy efficiency,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""When I voted for President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, one of the components I was most excited about—other than repairing roads, replacing lead pipes, and rebuilding crumbling bridges—were the investments in making our critical infrastructure more resilient and energy efficient. That starts with weatherizing households in communities across the country, and I'm thrilled to have helped deliver another $77 million to make that possible for more hardworking Missourians.""

According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, roughly 1 in 4 households have a high energy burden, with this figure substantially higher for underserved and low-income populations. With Rep. Cleaver's support, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will provide $3.5 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program to alleviate that burden on American families.

More information on the Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-cosponsors-legislation-lower-gas-prices-combat-greed-big,"Rep. Cleaver Cosponsors Legislation to Lower Gas Prices, Combat Greed of Big Oil, and Provide Rebates to American Consumers",2022-04-01,2022,2022-04,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced he has cosponsored H.R. 7099, the Stop Gas Price Gouging Tax and Rebate Act, which would help to curb profiteering from major oil companies by creating a windfall profit tax on the excessive corporate profits of Big Oil. The revenue created from the windfall profit tax would then be returned to American consumers in the form of a tax rebate, helping to pay for the rise in gas prices.

""At a time when hardworking families are feeling the pain of the Putin Price Hike at the gas pump, Big Oil and corporate executives are seemingly using this moment to pad their record profits at the expense of Missourians. It's beyond shameful, and Congress must immediately pass legislation to protect consumers,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I'm proud to support Chairman DeFazio's Stop Gas Price Gouging Tax and Rebate Act to ensure companies like Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Shell, and the like cannot profit from Putin's bloody war in Ukraine, and I will continue investigating every avenue possible to lower gas prices for Missourians in the Fifth District.""

As the Biden Administration vaccinated hundreds of millions of Americans and pandemic restrictions were loosened, the global consumption of oil and gas increased substantially in 2021. As a result of increased global demand, 24 of the top oil and gas companies made more than $127 billion in profits last year. The largest oil and gas company in the U.S., Exxon Mobil, reported more than $23 billion in profits in 2021 alone. Rather than reinvesting those profits to reduce prices on consumers, Big Oil instead awarded shareholders, with 14 oil companies alone giving more than $35 billion in dividend increases and stock buybacks. In the first quarter of 2022, nearly $80 billion in shareholder returns have already been announced, even as gas prices remain extraordinarily high around the world.

In an effort to prevent Big Oil from price gouging at the pump and to provide relief to Missouri consumers, the Stop Gas Price Gouging Tax and Rebate Act would:

Create an income-based windfall profit tax on excessive corporate profits of major oil and gas companies, who would pay a one-time 50 percent windfall profit tax on any adjusted taxable income (ATI) in 2022 that exceeds 110 percent of their average ATI during pre-pandemic levels between 2015-2019.

Lower energy prices for Missourians with a tax rebate by returning revenue raised by the windfall profit tax to consumers as a month, advance, and refundable tax credit that will be phased out by income. Eligibility would be identical to criteria used for Economic Impact Payments that were included in the American Rescue Plan.

""While the American people are willing to pay more at the pump to support our Ukrainian friends and their fight for freedom, we cannot allow Big Oil to exploit this tragic moment. With the Stop Gas Price Gouging Tax and Rebate Act, they won't be able to,"" said Congressman Cleaver.

The legislation was introduced by Rep. Peter DeFazio, Chairman of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, and is cosponsored by Nanette Barragan (D-CA), Andre Carson (D-IN), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Jesus ""Chuy"" Garcia (D-IL), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Mondaire Jones (D-NY), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Tom Malinowski (D-NJ), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Katie Porter (D-CA), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Mark Takano (D-CA), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rashida Talib (D-MI), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Frank Mrvan (D-IN), Marie Newman (D-IL), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Mary Scanlon (D-PA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Adam Smith (D-WA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Michael San Nicolas (D-GU), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).

Official text of the Stop Gas Price Gouging Tax and Rebate Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:19:30Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-cap-out-pocket-insulin-costs-35-month,Congressman Cleaver Votes to Cap Out-of-Pocket Insulin Costs at $35 per Month,2022-03-31,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 6833, the Affordable Insulin Now Act, which would cap out-of-pocket costs for insulin at no more than $35 per month in Medicare Part D and commercial health insurance. With 1 in 4 Americans who rely on insulin admitting to having cut back or skipped doses due to cost, this legislation ensures vital and affordable access to life-saving medication for more than 37 million Americans who have diabetes. The bipartisan bill was passed by the House of Representatives with a vote of 232-193 and will now go to the U.S. Senate.

""Right now, Americans pay more than 10 times the price for insulin compared to other high-income countries due to nothing more than lack of competition and corporate greed,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""With passage of the Affordable Insulin Now Act, we can prevent Big Pharma from ripping off the tens of millions of Americans who have diabetes and are in need of life-saving medication, ensuring these individuals can get their prescriptions at an affordable price. As hardworking Missouri families continue to feel the pain of global inflation, I remain committed to lowering costs wherever possible for consumers—and lowering prescription drug costs is a very good place to start.""

From 2014-2019, the average retail price of insulin rose by 54 percent. According to the American Diabetes Association, 25 percent of Americans with diabetes who depend on insulin have admitted to cutting back or skipping doses due to cost, risking severe health consequences and even death. A recent study showed that out-of-pocket costs for insulin among all users averaged $64 in 2017, nearly double what the out-of-pocket costs would be with the Affordable Insulin Now Act.

To lower costs on Americans who rely on insulin, the Affordable Insulin Now Act would:

Require Medicare Part D plans and commercial health insurance plans to cover insulin, ensuring that plans cover at least one of each type and dosage form of insulin;

Cap out-of-pocket costs at no more than $35 per month, requiring private insurance to cap cost-sharing at the lesser of $35 or 25 percent of a plan's negotiated price, and requiring all Medicare prescription drug plans to cap cost-sharing for insulin at no more than $35; and

Be completely deficit-neutral by delaying the implementation of the Rebate Rule that was published by the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services on November 30, 2020.

""At a time when the American people are begging Congress to work together to pass legislation that will lower costs on working class families, I hope that somehow, someway we can find 10 Republicans in the Senate to support this common sense proposal. Failure to do so would be a dereliction of duty,"" said Congressman Cleaver.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-co-introduces-bipartisan-bill-fund-federal-cerebral,Congressman Cleaver Co-Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Fund Federal Cerebral Palsy Research,2022-03-30,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Steve Cohen (D-TN), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) co-introduced the bipartisan Cerebral Palsy Research Program Act, which would create a cerebral palsy (CP) research program headed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and provide the first-ever dedicated source of federal funding for CP research. CP is the most common life-long physical disability, occurring in roughly one out of 345 children and approximately one million people in the United States. Still, there has never been a federal research program focused on the disability.

""As we come to the conclusion of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, I'm extraordinarily proud to introduce the bipartisan Cerebral Palsy Research Program Act with Representatives Cohen and Fitzpatrick,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""CP is the most common motor disability for American children, yet for far too long, Congress has overlooked the desperate need to fund, research and develop new treatments and technologies that can support individuals living daily with CP. With this commonsense proposal, we can begin to right that wrong and take the steps necessary to improve the lives of every American living with CP -- and I believe that's something everyone in Congress should be able to support.""

""The lack of dedicated federal funding has limited any potential advances into the care and treatment of cerebral palsy,"" said Congressman Cohen. ""Many people with CP visit pediatricians throughout their lives because there is no standard of care for treating CP and very few health care providers specialize in treating adults with CP. Few providers are even aware of how CP affects an adult.""

""Cerebral palsy is one of the most common of all diagnosed childhood disabilities, and nearly 10,000 babies born each year will develop CP, yet, there is currently no designated federal funding for CP research,"" said Representative Fitzpatrick. ""I am pleased to join Representatives Cohen and Cleaver to introduce the bipartisan Cerebral Palsy Research Program Act, which will support CP research, diagnosis, and treatment efforts and improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans living with CP.""

""The Cerebral Palsy Research Program Act will profoundly improve the lives of people with cerebral palsy and their families. The cerebral palsy community strongly supports this critical public health research need. With dedicated investment by the federal government, we will finally see breakthroughs in treatment, prevention and enhanced healthcare across the lifespan for millions of Americans,"" said Cynthia Frisina, Cerebral Palsy Foundation Senior Vice President, mother of a daughter with cerebral palsy, and the creator of National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day.

The Cerebral Palsy Research Program Act would direct the CDC to establish a research program to support research on the diagnosis, treatment, mitigation, health care costs, and societal costs of CP and track the number of people diagnosed with CP in the United States. Additionally, it would provide funds to the National Institutes of Health to update and publish a Strategic Plan on Cerebral Palsy, which was last published in 2017.

Official text of the Cerebral Palsy Research Program Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-attends-signing-emmett-till-antilynching-act-releases,"Rep. Cleaver Attends Signing of Emmett Till Antilynching Act, Releases Statement on Legislation",2022-03-29,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) traveled to the White House for the signing ceremony of the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, which was signed into law by President Biden and officially makes lynching a federal hate crime in the United States. After the signing ceremony, Congressman Cleaver released the following statement.

""I will never forget the day my parents talked to me and my siblings about the brutal lynching of Emmett Till. It was the kind of discussion that would be considered extraordinary by many parents, but a conversation that, tragically, Black families have been forced to have for centuries now. After revealing the traumatic photo of Mr. Till on the cover of Jet Magazine—and making clear that Emmett could have easily been Emanuel—that image was seared into my mind and something I have carried with me to this day.

""Now, after more than 200 attempts by the Congress since 1900, President Biden has finally signed legislation designating the despicable, racist, and hate-fueled act of lynching as a federal hate crime in America. While this can never return the more than 6,500 souls that were stolen by this evil practice between 1865-1950, it will ensure modern day perpetrators are held accountable by the Department of Justice and marks a righteous step toward reckoning with one of the darkest time periods in American history, beginning to heal the pain and trauma that millions of Americans still feel today.

""I have long believed that the United States of America is exceptional because it gives the American people the ability to right the wrongs of the past and create a fairer future for all of God's children. Today is a demonstration of the greatness of America, and I was honored to stand with President Biden, Congressman Rush, and the rest of the Congressional Black Caucus as this historic law was finally, officially enacted.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-highlights-local-impact-28-million-community-project,Rep. Cleaver Highlights Local Impact of $2.8 Million in Community Project Funding for MLK Park Pedestrian Bridge,2022-03-24,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) hosted a press conference at MLK Park to highlight the $2.8 million in Community Project Funding he secured to build a pedestrian bridge that will connect communities on the north and south banks of Brush Creek and allow pedestrians to safely reach the park. The pedestrian bridge at Brush Creek is one of ten community projects Congressman Cleaver championed and was able to secure funding for that will directly benefit residents of the Fifth Congressional District.

""Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. told us to build bridges, not walls, and that's what we're doing here today. This bridge will connect Kansas Citians to their schools, their homes, and their communities. It's a sign of beautiful rebirth in this neighborhood. It's a sign of development, of a vision for the future, and a plan to make that vision into a reality,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Thanks to KC Parks, the Kauffman Foundation, and the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, the newly renovated MLK Park is a gem in our community that properly honors the legacy of Dr. King. I first proposed renaming Brush Creek Park after MLK in 1976, when I was Board Chairman of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City. Nearly fifty years later, it brings me great joy to see the community investments in this park as we continue to bend the moral arc of the universe toward justice.""

""Since it opened last summer, the playground at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Square Park has quickly become a favorite Kansas City family destination,"" said Mayor Quinton Lucas. ""While the park includes inclusive play equipment for children of all ages, the lack of foot access to the park has been a challenge for families who live in the neighborhood. I applaud Congressman Cleaver for his work to secure funding for a pedestrian bridge, which will help the Kansas City Parks Department and the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation continue to provide a safe and exceptional park experience for all Kansas City children and families.""

""This bridge will provide exponential improvements to communities around Brush Creek—unlocking access to new opportunities and of course the amazing new MLK Jr. Park,"" said City Manager Brian Platt. ""We are so thankful for Congressman Cleaver's continued investment in and focus on the east side of Kansas City over the last few decades.""

""This pedestrian bridge will connect communities, schools, and affordable housing on the north side of the creek to MLK Park ensuring that adjacent neighborhoods have increased access to this destination park and the health and social benefits outdoor recreation offers,"" said KC Parks Board President Jack Holland. ""Neighborhood parks provide the heartbeat to our beloved city. We are grateful to Congressman Cleaver for bolstering Dr. King's mission of bringing not just equality, but equity to the Brush Creek Cultural Corridor. Thanks also to the Kauffman Foundation and the 15 & the Mahomies Foundation, whose generosity made this wonderful park, playground, and trail possible!""

We are thrilled to see more improvements being made to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Square Park,"" said 15 and the Mahomies Executive Director Marques Fitch. ""It was always our goal to make this location a special place for Kansas City residents to enjoy. We are thankful for everyone that helps continue this mission.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/one-year-later-rep-cleaver-highlights-unprecedented-job-economic-growth,"One Year Later, Rep. Cleaver Highlights Unprecedented Job, Economic Growth Powered by Democrats’ American Rescue Plan",2022-03-17,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – A year after the American Rescue Plan Act was signed into law by President Biden, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) highlighted the impact of the historic rescue package, which led to more than 254,000,000 Americans receiving a vaccine, helped reopen schools and small businesses, put hardworking Missourians back to work, and supported local health care heroes, firefighters, police officers, and other frontline workers.

""When I voted for the American Rescue Plan last year, I did so to ensure hardworking families had money in their pockets, small businesses could stay afloat through the COVID recession, lifesaving vaccines would be made easily available, and students could safely return to the classroom where they belong,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""And by each of these metrics, the American Rescue Plan has resulted in an unprecedented recovery for Missouri and the American people. I'm proud to have supported the American Rescue Plan, which gave our state the tools and resources needed to save lives and livelihoods, and I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress to lower costs on working class Missourians, create good-paying jobs, and support the frontline workers who have played a pivotal role throughout the pandemic.""

The Cleaver-supported American Rescue Plan has deployed billions in funds to help Missouri contain COVID-19 and build a strong, sustainable, and just economic recovery, including:

$2.68 billion for Missouri state and local governments, helping to preserve critical services, scale up testing, distribute vaccines, and keep essential workers on the job—including health care workers, firefighters, police officers, teachers, and other frontline workers;

$1.96 billion for Missouri schools, helping students safely return to in-person learning;

$1,400 relief checks delivered to 3.1 million Missourians;

$363.9 million in emergency rental assistance for Missourians, keeping a roof over working families' heads;

$721.3 million in child care funds for Missouri, helping early childhood educators and family child care providers keep their doors open; and

$667 million supporting 132 Missouri colleges and universities, including $188 million for community colleges and more than $38 million for 2 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Nationally, these investments have powered an unprecedented economic recovery that has delivered:

The greatest single year of job creation in American history, with 6.6 million jobs created in President Biden's first year and 7.4 million over the course of the Biden Administration, including nearly half a million manufacturing jobs—the most created in any year since 1994.

The fastest economic growth in almost 4 decades, with the national GDP growing at 5.7 percent last year—the fastest rate since 1984.

The biggest single year drop in the unemployment rate in our history, falling from 6.4 percent when Democrats took office to 3.8 percent now. When President Biden took office, over 18 million Americans were receiving unemployment benefits—now, only 2 million are.

A new record of 5.4 million new small businesses created, which is a full million more small businesses than in the year before.

""There is no question that our work is far from finished—but it's important to take stock of the progress made over the past year since the American Rescue Plan was signed into law,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Thanks to the American Rescue Plan, we've seen unemployment plummet to less than 4 percent—something that wasn't expected for years, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Now, as we continue working to lower costs for the American public, we must keep strengthening our supply chains, reduce prescription drug and health care costs, support critical services that working class families rely on, and do everything possible to combat the Putin Price Hike that is hurting Missourians at the gas pump.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-suspend-normal-trade-relations-russia-belarus,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Suspend Normal Trade Relations with Russia, Belarus",2022-03-17,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 7108, a bill to suspend normal trade relations with Russia and Belarus in response to their illegal, unprovoked, and unconscionable invasion of Ukraine. The legislation passed the House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support as the U.S. Congress and Biden Administration continue unprecedented efforts to hold Vladimir Putin accountable and isolate Russia from the international community.

""Following President Zelenskyy's impassioned speech to Congress, the United States of America is once again taking strong action to demonstrate its ironclad commitment to stand with the Ukrainian people and isolate Vladimir Putin for his horrific attempt to militarily conquer a free, democratic nation,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""By suspending normal trade relations and strengthening the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, the United States can further squeeze the Russian economy and increase the pressure on Putin and his band of thugs for their illegal invasion and despicable attacks on innocent Ukrainian civilians. The United States, NATO, and our allies around the world will not stop working to isolate and punish Putin as long as he continues his unprovoked, bloody war of aggression.""

H.R. 7108 contains three major provisions to hold Russia accountable for invading a sovereign nation, including:

Suspending normal trade relations with Russia and Belarus, stopping them from selling goods in the United States at the same preferential duty rates that Ukraine enjoys and allowing the President to raise tariffs on products from Russia and Belarus;

Extending and Strengthening the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act so that the United States can impose further sanctions on Russia for their heinous attacks on Ukrainian civilians and gross human rights abuses; and

Taking steps to review Russia's and Belarus's access to the World Trade Organization and exploring ways in which we can further diminish their position in the global economy.

Since Putin began his war to conquer Ukraine, President Biden and Congress have taken historically unprecedented steps to hold Russia accountable, impose crushing consequences that will weaken it economically, and strengthen Ukrainian freedom fighters' ability to fight off their invaders, including:

Passing $13.6 billion in emergency assistance to provide Ukraine with humanitarian, economic, and defense support;

Banning the import of Russian oil and energy products into the United States;

Cutting off Russia's largest bank and imposing full sanctions on major Russian financial institutions and state-owned enterprises critical to its economy;

Securing new export controls to cut off Russia's access to technologies critical to their economy and military;

Banning Russian banks from SWIFT and taking new measures to hamstring the Russian Central bank; and more.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-15-million-funding-fifth-district-schools-and,Rep. Cleaver Announces $15 Million in Funding for Fifth District Schools and Libraries to Help Kids Access the Internet at Home and Close the Homework Gap,2022-03-11,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – One year after the American Rescue Plan became law, Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced today that Missouri's Fifth District has received $15,027,886.59 to date from the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (ECF). The ECF program, which was created as part of the American Rescue Plan, helps schools and libraries ensure that students can connect to the internet at home, allowing them to take advantage of online learning and do their homework. Known as the ""homework gap,"" students who lack access to the internet at home often fall behind their peers as curriculums and educational opportunities rely more and more on the ability to conduct online research and connect to the web.

According to the FCC, the $7.17 billion program has provided Missouri with $75,895,062.88 in total funding to date.

""Make no mistake, the COVID-19 pandemic laid bare what was already true – that with educational tools, homework, and opportunities increasingly online, kids without home internet access are often left without the basics needs to succeed,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""This critical funding, made possible by President Biden's American Rescue Plan, will help children across Missouri and throughout the Fifth District who don't have the equipment or internet access necessary to stay connected and get their work done in this ever-evolving, digitized world. I'm proud to have supported this program in Congress and will keep fighting to close the homework gap because students from Saline to Jackson County, regardless of circumstance, deserve the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond.""

The ECF Program will help cover costs of laptop and tablet computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, modems, routers, and broadband connectivity purchases for off-campus use by students, school staff, and library patrons.

The schools and libraries in Missouri's Fifth District that have received funding from the FCC program include:

Academy for Integrated Arts: $9,855.00

Brookside Charter School: $90,000.00

Center School District: $189,535.00

Concordia School District: $68,770.40

Cornerstones of Care: $60,600.00

Frontier Schools: $576,108.60

Grandview School District: $582,120.00

Guadalupe Educational Systems: $277,593.00

Hickman Mills School District: $76,000.00

Hogan Preparatory Academy: $50,848.00

Independence Missouri Public Schools: $126,048.00

Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy: $41,061.40

Kansas City Public Library: $874,780.12

Lawson School District: $206,000.00

Lee's Summit School District: $475,162.50

Lone Jack School District: $53,807.00

Marshall School District: $384,780.00

North Kansas City School District: $9,380,000.00

Oak Grove School District: $115,000.00

Odessa School District: $169,575.00

Ray County Library: $2,551.70

Raytown School District: $716,181.92

Richmond School District: $165,097.00

Santa Fe School District: $16,000.00

Slater School District: $111,959.15

St. Peter Elementary School: $13,375.00

St. Teresa's Academy: $12,144.00

St. Thomas More School: $105,593.80

University Academy: $24,529.50

Wellington-Napoleon School District: $52,810.00

Eligible schools and libraries may request and receive support through the Emergency Connectivity Fund. Details on how to apply can be found here (Español).

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-votes-pass-omnibus-funding-package-invest-middle-class,"Rep. Cleaver Votes to Pass Omnibus Funding Package, Invest in Middle Class Families, and Support Ukraine",2022-03-10,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Last night, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 2471, the fiscal year 2022 government funding package, otherwise known as the Omnibus or budget bill. The bill's historic investments in the American people and communities across the country will help working families with the cost of living, create good-paying jobs, provide support to our veterans, and protect the most vulnerable members of our society. Additionally, the legislation includes $13.6 billion in supplemental funding to support the Ukrainian people and defend global democracy in the wake of Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine.

The legislation was passed by the House of Representatives with bipartisan support, and the bill is expected to be passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Biden later this week.

""The key to a quality, fair, and robust budget bill that meets the needs of the American people is an eagerness from both political parties to work together in good-faith and a willingness to compromise—which is precisely how we arrived at the budget I was proud to support,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""While I've never come across a budget that was perfect, this legislation will help lower costs for hardworking families in Missouri by expanding child care and early learning programs, supporting access to homeownership and affordable housing, strengthening nutrition and energy assistance programs, investing in affordable health care, fulfilling the promises made to our veterans, and so much more. In conjunction with the more than $15 million in Community Project Funding I was able to secure for the Fifth Congressional District, these historic investments in middle- and working-class families are going to have a profound impact in our congressional district and across the country—and that's precisely how we begin building a better America.""

The government funding package includes significant investments to help hardworking families with the cost of living, support our veterans, and protect the most vulnerable members of our communities by:

Expanding access to child care and early childhood education and development programs by increasing funding for Head Start, the Child Care Development Block Grant, and Preschool Development Grants;

Strengthening nutrition and energy assistance programs that Missouri families rely on such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP);

Providing historic funding to strengthen public education, with $42.6 billion for public schools, including a focus on high-poverty schools;

Making post-secondary education more affordable with increased funding for Pell Grants, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program, Federal Work Study programs, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs);

Supporting access to affordable housing and homeownership through increases in housing vouchers, increased funding for rental assistance and public housing, and investments in community revitalization programs;

Honoring our promise to veterans by funding critical benefits, bolstering the VA's health care system and reducing backlogs;

Extending the National Flood Insurance Program, which mitigates flood risk and provides affordable insurance to millions of property owners, through September 30, 2022;

Connecting rural communities to the internet with $550 billion in funding to expand rural broadband; and more.

The budget bill also includes substantial investments that will create good-paying jobs at home and strengthen America's global competitiveness in the long-term by:

Helping small business owners and entrepreneurs grow with $1.3 billion for the Small Business Administration and Community Development Financial Institution;

Expanding high-quality job training and apprenticeship programs with $9.8 billion for the Employment and Training Administration;

Increasing economic development in distressed communities with support for small and medium-sized American manufacturers, as well as increases in the Community Development Block Grant program;

Doubling-down on the transition to renewable energy with increased funding for the development and deployment of renewable and clean energy technologies across the country; and

Modernizing America's critical infrastructure with $109.2 billion to rebuild crumbling highways, transit, passenger rail, port systems, and more.

The Omnibus also includes $13.6 billion in emergency funding to support Ukraine's fight for freedom, including:

Humanitarian assistance that helps address the dire humanitarian needs of the millions of refugees who have fled Ukraine or been displaced within Ukraine;

Defense assistance that provides Ukraine and American allies and partners in the Baltics and Central and Eastern Europe so they can defend themselves against Russian aggression;

Economic assistance that flexibly allows Ukrainian leaders to respond to the economic needs of Ukraine and its neighbors, including energy and cybersecurity efforts; and

Sanctions enforcement that ensures Putin and his cronies cannot escape the financial pain caused by global sanctions levied for their unprovoked and unjustified invasion of a sovereign nation.

Additionally, the legislation addresses some of our nation's biggest challenges, including:

Protecting our national security with robust funding for defense, diplomacy, and global development, a strong focus on cybersecurity, and investments in responsible border and maritime security that keeps Americans safe and respects the rights and dignity of migrants;

Confronting the climate crisis through a renewed focus on environmental enforcement, pioneering funding for environmental justice, and historic investments in clean energy and climate science; and

Strengthening public health by rebuilding our public health infrastructure, investing in lifesaving biomedical research, and confronting urgent health crises, including maternal health, mental health, substance misuse, and gun violence.

""Instead of fixing the blame for who is responsible for the challenges facing our great nation, the American public want their representatives to fix a solution for the people,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I believe that this bipartisan government funding bill is a critical step toward building a better America in every corner of every community, and I'll keep working on a bipartisan basis to pass legislation like this that helps us do just that.""

A full section-by-section summary of the government funding legislation is available here, and a summary of the Ukraine supplemental funding is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-secures-15156000-local-5th-district-projects-omnibus-budget,"Rep. Cleaver Secures $15,156,000 For Local 5th District Projects in Omnibus Budget Bill",2022-03-09,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) secured $15,156,000 in Community Project Funding with the passage of H.R. 2471, which Cleaver proudly supported. The Community Project Funding, included in the fiscal year 2022 government funding package soon to be signed into law, will provide federal dollars for critical local projects throughout the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, including in Kansas City, Raytown, Marshall, Slater, and Lexington, Missouri.

""It has been a long and difficult journey to get this historic, bipartisan budget across the finish line, but I am incredibly excited for the profound impact it will have on local communities in Kansas City, Raytown, Slater, Lexington, Marshall, and all throughout our congressional district,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Whether it is the regional affordable housing initiative in Kansas City, the MLK Pedestrian Bridge at Brush Creek, or a new building to expand Missouri Valley College's Nursing Program, federal funding for these long overdue projects will foster economic development, create jobs, and meet the local needs of communities in Western Missouri. I am proud to have secured all ten of my Community Project Funding requests in 2022, and as Congress immediately begins discussions on next year's appropriations package, I will continue working overtime to bring hard-earned taxpayer dollars back to the Fifth District.""

Congressman Cleaver championed funding for 10 projects that will directly benefit residents of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri—and all 10 were included in this year's appropriations package. These projects include:

$3,000,000 for the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) to help provide affordable housing in low-income neighborhoods, as well as homeownership education, down payment assistance, and minor home repair;

$2,800,000 to build the MLK Park Pedestrian Bridge at Brush Creek to connect communities, schools, and affordable housing along the north and south banks of Brush Creek;

$2,500,000 for University Health to create a state-of-the-art substance use treatment center in the heart of Kansas City's UMKC Health Sciences District;

$2,000,000 for the Health Care Collaborative of Rural Missouri to improve services in Lexington and Buckner, Missouri;

$2,000,000 for Missouri Valley College to build a new 17,000 square foot Health Professions Building to house the Nursing Program and ultimately other health care profession programs;

$1,259,000 for the Mattie Rhodes Cultural Center to meet the needs of a growing and evolving Westside community in Kansas City;

$1,000,000 for the demolition and abatement of the former Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall, Missouri, so the property can be transformed into 56 safe, affordable workforce housing units for families;

$250,000 to support the Aim4Peace Hospital-based Violence Intervention Program, which serves victims of violence and their families;

$200,000 to renovate the 33-year-old Raytown Chamber of Commerce Building and add necessary ADA accessibility at the entrance and interior; and

$147,000 for the City of Slater to develop new well field protection measures to ensure businesses and residents of northeast Saline County have an uninterrupted supply of potable water during periods of seasonal flooding.

The twelve-bill government funding package will help middle-class families with the cost of living, create American jobs, support the most vulnerable Americans, and works to help small businesses and restaurants that are key to local economies and our nation's economic future. Taken together, the Community Project Funding for the Fifth Congressional District and funding increases for critical government programs will reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities and help build a better America.

The government funding package will be voted on by the Senate and signed into law by President Biden later this week.

A detailed summary of the bill is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-highlights-historic-funding-bipartisan,Congressman Cleaver Highlights Historic Funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to Modernize Bus Fleets and Facilities,2022-03-08,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) highlighted an announcement from the Biden-Harris Administration that approximately $1.47 billion in competitive grant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will go toward modernizing bus fleets and facilities across the country. Congressman Cleaver voted for this long overdue investment in our transportation infrastructure, which will support good-paying jobs, help reduce carbon emissions, lead to cleaner air and healthier communities, and increase transportation options in communities throughout Missouri.

""The Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is the modern-day mailman—it keeps delivering for the American people,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Not only will this federal funding create good-paying manufacturing jobs as we build brand new electric buses to deploy across the country, but it will also lower emissions, combat harmful pollution, and ensure we have cleaner, healthier communities for Missourians to enjoy. I was proud to support this desperately needed investment to modernize our transportation system in Western Missouri, and I will continue working with local stakeholders to ensure this funding makes its way to Missouri's Fifth District.""

The announcement of the Federal Transportation Administration's (FTA) Low or No Emission (Low-No) Grant Program and Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will make approximately $1.47 billion available in Fiscal Year 2022 to help transit agencies purchase or lease U.S.-built low or no emission vehicles, purchase or rehabilitate buses, vans, and related equipment, and build bus facilities.

As part of the Biden-Harris Administration's priority of advancing environmental justice and spurring economic opportunity for disadvantaged communities, the FTA is encouraging applicants to provide information on how their proposed project will support jobs and increase safety, resiliency, access to transit and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in such communities. Congressman Cleaver believes the administration's focus will make projects like the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor attractive for federal funding.

""When President Biden visited Kansas City just a few short months ago, you better believe I reminded him which Representatives from Missouri and Kansas helped to push his transformative infrastructure bill over the finish line,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""As the Kansas City Region competes with other localities for this much needed funding to help finance projects like the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor and expand our city's bus fleet with new and improved electric buses, I will make sure that fact is not lost on the administration.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-highlights-missouri-colleges-and-universities-have-received,Rep. Cleaver Highlights Missouri Colleges and Universities Have Received Nearly $668 Million Thanks to Democrats’ American Rescue Plan,2022-03-08,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – As we approach the one-year anniversary of the historic American Rescue Plan, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) highlighted a report from the White House showing that the landmark rescue package has delivered nearly $668 million to 132 Missouri colleges and universities in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. These critical investments—at least half of which are being used to provide direct financial relief to students—are helping institutions of higher education, including HBCUs and community colleges, safely stay open and operational, prevent price increases, and keep students on track to graduate and join the workforce. Colleges and universities in the Fifth Congressional District have received nearly $78 million thanks to the Cleaver-supported American Rescue Plan.

""At a time when Missouri students, colleges, and universities were facing unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I was proud to cast my vote for the American Rescue Plan, which has now delivered nearly $668 million to higher education institutions, including HBCUs and community colleges, across the Show Me State,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""This federal funding has provided the combined benefit of financial relief to help students continue their educational aspirations and the necessary resources to ensure students, educators, and frontline staff can safely operate in the classroom. As the Biden-Harris Administration continues its work to support America's students and our world-class institutions, they have an ally in me and the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri.""

After President Biden took office, the American Rescue Plan delivered one of the largest one-time infusions of funding ever provided to American colleges and universities, which helped ensure institutions could safely reopen and stay open for good. Distributed by the U.S. Department of Education's Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF), these investments are already having a major impact. A recent survey of college presidents by the American Council on Education found that HEERF enabled:

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

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

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

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

Some of the 132 colleges and universities from Missouri receiving funds under the American Rescue Plan include:

University of Missouri – Columbia: $43,473,426;

Missouri State University: $43,061,588;

Metropolitan Community College: $34,488,153;

University of Missouri – Kansas City: $22,779,476;

Harris – Stowe State University: $20,222,823;

Lincoln University: $18,116,034; and more

""As we have learned during the global pandemic, students learn best when they're in the classroom—and the American Rescue Plan has been instrumental in the safe reopening of colleges and universities throughout Missouri, in addition to providing desperately needed financial relief to students,"" said Congressman Cleaver.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-katko-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-expand-access,"Reps. Cleaver, Katko Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Affordable Housing, Remove Bureaucratic Barriers Within Housing Voucher Program",2022-03-03,2022,2022-03,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Chairman of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance, and John Katko (R-NY) introduced H.R. 6880, the Choice in Affordable Housing Act of 2022, a plan for expanding access to affordable housing options for American families. Specifically, the bipartisan bill would reform the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) by removing burdensome bureaucratic regulations, incentivizing greater landlord participation, and allowing more vouchers to be used in higher-opportunity neighborhoods, which will increase housing opportunities for lower-income Americans.

""Reforms to the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program have the potential to unlock greater opportunity and access to affordable housing for families throughout Missouri and across the nation,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""The Choice in Affordable Housing Act is a critical component to realizing that potential. This common sense, bipartisan proposal will make necessary and long overdue improvements to maximize the efficiency of this life-changing program and provide stability for renters and landlords alike. I'm proud to have the partnership of my colleague Representative Katko on this significant matter, and I look forward to working with him as it makes its way to the President's desk.""

""I was proud to join Representative Cleaver in introducing the Choice in Affordable Housing Act, a bipartisan bill that will increase access to affordable housing in communities across the nation,"" said Rep. Katko. ""Declining landlord participation in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program has exacerbated a severe shortage in affordable housing options. This legislation makes important reforms to the HCV program that incentivize landlord participation and facilitate valuable connections between local housing organizations and property owners. Encouraging more landlords to accept Housing Choice Vouchers is a crucial step in providing more affordable housing opportunities to families everywhere, and I am enthusiastic about the results this bill can deliver for Central New York.""

""NMHC and the apartment industry have long supported the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program and believe it has the potential to be one of the most effective means of addressing our nation's affordable housing needs, supporting mixed-income communities and improving housing opportunity across the nation. However, the program's potential success is limited by too many inefficient, costly and duplicative requirements, which discourage private housing providers from accepting vouchers,"" said Doug Bibby, National Multifamily Housing Council President. ""The common sense reforms included in the Choice in Affordable Housing Act are urgently needed and we appreciate the bipartisan leadership of Reps. Cleaver and Katko in introducing this critical legislation. The bill includes meaningful reforms that will improve the program for both renters and property owners and increase private housing provider participation, which will increase opportunity for millions of American families and help them find homes in thriving communities with access to good schools, jobs and transportation.""

""The National Apartment Association (NAA) thanks Reps. Cleaver and Katko for their bipartisan leadership on reforming the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, a critical tool for tackling housing affordability,"" said Bob Pinnegar, NAA President and CEO. ""Fixing the HCV program's inefficiencies and redundancies while easing the burdens placed on participants is paramount to addressing housing affordability and will help ensure more Americans can receive the help they need. NAA applauds the introduction of this important bill and is proud to work alongside industry partners and legislators to produce responsible housing policy.""

""NAHB strongly supports the bipartisan Choice in Affordable Housing Act, legislation that would help ease the nation's housing affordability crisis for households most in need by providing additional resources to attract and retain landlords in the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV),"" said Jerry Konter, Chairman, National Association of Home Builders. "" The HCV is vital tool to help low-income families, the elderly and the disabled to afford decent and safe housing in the private market. This bill would increase landlord participation and improve housing choices for families seeking affordable housing.""

""BPC Action applauds Reps. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) and John Katko (R-NY) for coming together to introduce the bipartisan Choice in Affordable Housing Act. This legislation, like its Senate companion, will help promote economic opportunity by removing burdensome barriers that complicate and deter landlord participation in HUD's Housing Choice Voucher Program. These barriers ultimately weaken the program's effectiveness as a tool to combat poverty and homelessness and help families climb up the economic ladder. In alignment with longstanding BPC recommendations, it advances evidence-based initiatives, like Small Area Fair Market Rents and landlord incentives, that will ultimately help to disrupt entrenched segregation and concentrated poverty by helping low-income families live in low-poverty communities. BPC Action looks forward to working with the congressmen to enact this legislation,"" said Michele Stockwell, Executive Director, Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) helps more than 5 million low-income Americans, including the elderly and people with disabilities, afford safe and decent housing in the private market. More than two-thirds of the 2.3 million households currently participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program are headed by a person of color. Studieshave shown that children who were able to utilize housing vouchers in high-opportunity neighborhoods that have low poverty rates and access to quality schools increased their lifetime income by more than $200,000.

Unfortunately, landlord participation in the Housing Choice Voucher Program is declining, with an average of 10,000 housing providers having left the program each year between 2010 and 2016. HUD has found that rent payment standards, administrative hurdles, and misperceptions of the Housing Choice Voucher Program have caused uncertainty in rental housing operations and deterred landlords from participating in the program.

The Choice in Affordable Housing Act of 2022 would make several reforms to the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program to incentivize greater use of housing vouchers among landlords, including:

Providing $500 million to create the Herschel Lashkowitz Housing Partnership Fund, which will be distributed to Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) that offer a signing bonus to landlords with a unit in an area with less than 20% poverty; PHAs that provide security deposit assistance so that tenants can better afford required deposits and landlords are assured greater protection against damages; PHAs that retain a dedicated landlord liaison on staff; and more;

Using neighborhood-specific data to set rents fairly by requiring the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to expand its 2016 rule requiring the use of Small Area Fair Market Rents to calculate fair rents in certain metro areas;

Reducing inspection delays by removing duplicative regulations and enabling new landlords to request pre-inspections from a PHA prior to selecting a voucher-holding tenant; and

Refocusing HUD's evaluation of housing agencies to encourage an increase in the diversity of neighborhoods where vouchers are used.

The Choice in Affordable Housing Act has also been introduced in the Senate by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and is endorsed by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Housing Law Project, Poverty & Race Research Action Council, Habitat for Humanity, Enterprise Community Partners, National Apartment Association, National Multifamily Housing Council, National Association of Realtors, National Association of Home Builders, National Leased Housing Association, Jewish Federations of North America, Up for Growth Action, RESULTS Educational Fund, BPC Action, and National Rental Home Council.

Official text of the Choice in Affordable Housing Act of 2022 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T02:06:17Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cleaver-davids-announce-new-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-port-funding,"Cleaver, Davids Announce New Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Port Funding at Port of Kansas City",2022-02-24,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) - Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) toured the Port of Kansas City's Woodswether Terminal and announced historic new funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law for critical ports such as this one. The lawmakers voted to bring long-overdue investments to Kansas and Missouri's infrastructure through the new law, including nearly $450 million in newly available grant funding for port-related projects through the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP)—by far the largest investment in the program ever.

Port KC connects both Kansas and Missouri with five cross-country railroads, four interstate highways, and thousands of businesses, helping keep supply chains moving across the United States. By investing in the strength of that critical infrastructure, the bipartisan infrastructure law will help goods get from ship to shelf faster and at a lower cost to consumers.

""As Congressman Cleaver and I told the President when he visited, when the Kansas City Metro is moving—America is moving. The Port of Kansas City is a major part of that, and today we announced a new opportunity through the bipartisan infrastructure law to strengthen supply chains and create jobs in both Kansas and Missouri,"" said Davids. ""I'm proud to have worked across the aisle to deliver one of the most fiscally responsible and comprehensive infrastructure bills in decades, and I look forward to bringing those benefits home.""

""The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's long overdue and historic investments in America's port infrastructure will enable ports across the country—including right here in Kansas City—to meet the demand of American consumers by expanding production and increasing shipping capacity to levels never seen before. Not only will these investments bolster our supply chains and lower the cost of goods for hardworking families and small business owners throughout the heartland, but it will also support good-paying jobs and ensure the Greater Kansas City Area remains competitive for decades to come,"" said Representative Cleaver. ""As more federal funding from President Biden's infrastructure law is made available, Rep. Davids and I will work in tandem to help it find its way back to the Kansas City Metro Area.""

""The Kansas City region is the crossroads of America. Last year the Bi-state region was the fourth fastest-growing logistics hub in America, and as the President recently noted, the Port of Kansas City is the fastest-growing port in the Midwest. Investments in our port facilities as part of the overall intermodal landscape are vital to easing supply chain issues nationwide, and making us more resilient to future disruptions that impact all Americans,"" said Jon Stephens, Port KC President & CEO.

The bipartisan infrastructure law includes $17 billion to modernize and expand our ports and waterways, delivering good-paying jobs and lower prices to Midwest families. The $450 million announced today is nearly double last year's investment in PIDP for states and port authorities. Ports, states, local governments will be able to apply and use them for significant improvements to port capacity, sustainability, and resilience. The deadline to apply is May 16, 2022 through the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Davids and Cleaver previously announced that in fiscal year 2022, the bipartisan infrastructure law is bringing more than $14 million for airports in the Greater Kansas City Area and historic funding to improve public transportation in the Kansas City area, such as KCATA buses. The law has been called the most fiscally responsible infrastructure bill in at least a decade by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleavers-statement-russian-invasion-ukraine,Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on Russian Invasion of Ukraine,2022-02-24,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement after Russia began an unprovoked and unconscionable invasion of Ukraine.

""Today, my heart and my prayers are with the proud people of Ukraine. As they are forced to take up arms to defend their homeland from an unprovoked and unconscionable act of war, the rest of the world must stand united in condemnation and rejection of Russia's aggression.

""With this premeditated decision to spill the innocent blood of a peaceful and prosperous nation in an attempt to reshape the world order, the despot of Moscow has reserved his place in history among the worst of humankind. He must—and will—be held accountable to the fullest extent possible for this despicable attempt to oppress an independent nation.

""Every generation is tasked with defending freedom from the ever-encroaching threat of tyranny and despotism. This is our moment. Now, more than ever, Americans, our NATO allies, and those who value self-determination must come together with an ironclad commitment to defend the values so many of our countrymen have sacrificed for.

""As sure as the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, Putin will increase efforts to sow division around the globe and grow his sphere of influence. We must resist the temptations to turn on each other and, instead, turn our ire toward the true threat to our freedoms at home and abroad.

""If anyone in the Fifth District has family or friends in the conflict zone or in need of assistance, please reach out to my district offices immediately.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-bi-state-sustainable-reinvestment-corridor,Rep. Cleaver Announces Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor,2022-02-21,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS), along with Mayors Eileen Weir (Independence, MO) and Tyrone Garner (Kansas City, KS), as well as Jackson County Executive Frank White, announced their plans for a Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor. The regional project is a coordinated effort to maximize federal funding from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law with a comprehensive plan to create greater opportunity throughout the region with strategic investments in sustainability, mobility, and economic development.

""President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our entire region to create sustainable communities, provide greater opportunity for economic mobility, and ensure our jurisdictions have the energy efficient infrastructure necessary to remain competitive throughout the 21st century—but coordination is critical,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""By coming together and uniting behind a comprehensive plan to expand the region's zero-emission transportation, build out our green infrastructure, connect communities in a sustainable way, and facilitate economic development through clean energy, we believe this corridor can attract key federal investments that will be a catalyst for greater economic growth while cutting down on emissions and harmful pollution. As we continue to reach out to local stakeholders and neighborhood leaders to see how local projects can fit into this framework, I want to thank Representative Davids, Mayors Weir, Garner, and Lucas, and County Executive White for their partnership in this exciting effort.""

""Part of the Kansas City Metro's strength is our interconnection and collaboration. We should absolutely leverage that to bring smart, sustainable investments to our communities,"" said Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03). ""Working together, we can use the historic bipartisan infrastructure law to make lasting improvements in our local economy, our climate impact, and our quality of life. I appreciate Congressman Cleaver's leadership and look forward to working together with local and state partners in Kansas.""

""Economic mobility, public health, access to employment and housing, and workforce development are cornerstones of our strategic plan ‘Independence for All'. The Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor provides limitless opportunities within our city and our region for many years to come,"" said Mayor Eileen Weir.

""Far too often our programs and planning are limited by our invisible jurisdictional lines,"" said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. ""This coordinated, comprehensive regional plan eliminates those lines and increases our chances of receiving federal funds that are essential to making these plans a reality. Jackson County is committed to building a better and more equitable community for everyone. With the support of Congressman Cleaver, Representative Davids and my fellow elected officials across the region, we are paving the way to provide increased connectivity, opportunity and economic sustainability for residents and businesses no matter what side of the state line they call home.""

""We look forward to catalyzing growth and opportunity within Kansas City, Kansas and Wyandotte County through the development of sustainable economic development strategies that are enabled by the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor and enhanced federal funding the corridor will bring to our community,"" said Mayor Tyrone Garner.

""The Bi-state Reinvestment Corridor is directly aligned with KCATA's mission to provide equitable access to jobs, medical care, affordable housing and education,"" said Robbie Makinen, KCATA President and Chief Executive Officer. ""We look forward to working with Congressman Cleaver, other congressional delegates and the community to build this reinvestment corridor that includes workforce development, green infrastructure and valuable transit improvements.""

With a concentration on funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor will focus on a wide range of federal and local investments to create a corridor that will connect three major cities in two states and two counties along State Avenue, Independence Avenue and Truman Road. In support of the region's Climate Action Plan, the project aims to implement a 24-mile zero-emission regional transit route with improved access to housing, health care, employment, and education for citizens in each city and surrounding area.

The Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor will target federal grant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that would support:

Zero-emission transportation options: Electric buses; new and upgraded mobility hubs; expanded KC Streetcar and MAX services; and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.

Affordable housing: Energy-efficient retrofits; new units and construction; transit-oriented/connected development.

Green infrastructure: Enhanced tree canopy coverage; upgraded stormwater systems; electric vehicle charging stations; residential solar panels.

Broadband Access: Implementation of wired and wireless service; increased capacity; updated equipment.

Safety and security enhancement: Shot spotter; license plate readers; Community Improvement Districts; other public safety technologies.

Economic development: Workforce training; access to child care; private investment along the corridor.

Public schools and libraries: Renewable energy and energy efficiency projects to reduce utility costs.

The Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor is endorsed by the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), and RideKC.

A Fact Sheet on the Bi-State Sustainable Reinvestment Corridor is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-support-unionization-efforts-congressional,Rep. Cleaver Announces Support for Unionization Efforts by Congressional Workers,2022-02-16,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced his support for H.Res. 915, a resolution led by Congressman Andy Levin (D-MI) that would officially recognize congressional workers' right to organize. Cleaver joined 130 colleagues in the House of Representatives last week to co-introduce the resolution, which now has more than 140 cosponsors.

""As a lifelong supporter of labor and every American worker's right to unionize, if congressional workers are leading an effort to organize for the workplace protections they deserve, you better believe I'm going to support it,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Congressional workers are essential to good governance and the work we do as Members of Congress—yet they have little say in their working conditions on Capitol Hill. At a moment when workers across the country are realizing the power of solidarity and collective bargaining, I'm incredibly proud of those who are leading the effort to level the playing field for congressional workers—and I hope it will inspire workers across the country to come together and ensure they have a seat at the table in their own workplace.""

Twenty-six years ago, Congress laid the groundwork for this critical step with the passage of the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995. Shortly thereafter, the Office of Compliance and Workplace Rights ruled that passage of a resolution recognizing workers' right to organize was the only thing keeping congressional workers from officially unionizing. H.Res. 915 would take that final step, allowing congressional workers in the House of Representatives to officially form a union.

The Congressional Progressive Staff Association recently released survey results finding that 91% of Congressional Staff wanted a say in workplace protections.

Official text of H.Res. 915 is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-votes-strengthen-usps-and-ensure-reliable-time-mail,"Congressman Cleaver Votes to Strengthen USPS and Ensure Reliable, On-Time Mail Service for Missourians",2022-02-10,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – This week, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act, which will improve mail delivery across Missouri and ensure the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) remains on solid financial footing for years to come. The legislation would create new sources of revenue, increase performance transparency, and save billions in taxpayer dollars while enabling the USPS to resume delivering dependable, on-time mail service to Missourians who rely on the Postal Service to receive paychecks, lifesaving medications, tax returns, and other items. The bill passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support by a vote of 342-92 and will now go to the U.S. Senate for a vote.

""Since the inception of our union, the U.S. Postal Service has been a thread that ties together communities across the nation, allowing families to stay connected and helping businesses to engage in commerce,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Over the past two years, we've seen how reliant communities remain on the USPS to deliver lifesaving medication, hard-earned paychecks, and other important items at a reasonable price and timely fashion. However, decades of underinvestment and irrational financial requirements have undermined this extremely popular institution. With the passage of the Postal Service Reform Act, we are making bipartisan, common sense reforms that will strengthen local post offices, support our postal workers, and ensure the USPS is transparent in the way it operates on behalf of the American taxpayers.""

The Postal Service Reform Act enacts several overdue changes to address financial challenges, improve mail delivery, and support postal workers, including:

Welcoming all future retirees into Medicare, delivering quality health care to our committed public servants while saving the Postal Service $22.6 billion over the next decade;

Repealing a burdensome requirement forcing the Postal Service to prefund retirees' health care 75 years in advance—a standard not held to any other government agency—which will save $27 billion over the next decade;

Promoting reliable delivery and transparency through a public-facing, online dashboard featuring national and local level service performance data; • Codifying the Postal Service's longtime tradition of delivering mail and packages six days per week; and

Allowing the Postal Service to raise additional revenues by offering non-commercial property and services to state, local, and tribal governments.

""Post offices have been the centerpiece of communities throughout the United States for centuries, and it is critical that Congress make the changes necessary to get this important institution back to running with the efficiency and affordability Americans are accustomed to,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""That is what the Postal Service Reform Act will do, and that is why I was proud to support this bipartisan piece of legislation.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-missouri-will-receive-146-million-electric,Rep. Cleaver Announces Missouri Will Receive $14.6 Million for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure,2022-02-10,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that Missouri will soon receive $14,647,722 to build out the state's electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, which will create a convenient network of chargers across the state, make EVs more accessible and accelerate our transition to more sustainable transportation. The funding comes as the first installment of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's five-year investment to expand EV infrastructure in Missouri. The transformational infrastructure bill, which was supported by Cleaver and signed into law by President Biden last November, included historic funding to construct the first-ever national network of EV chargers as we seek to combat the threat of climate change, boost America's auto and manufacturing industries, and create good-paying, green jobs.

""Electric vehicles are the future of Missouri and our nation as a whole—and I'm proud to have played a role in delivering this critical funding, which is a major step toward our transition to a sustainable and clean energy economy,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Not only do electric vehicles help to combat the worsening climate crisis and cut down on pollution in our communities, but they also save Americans money on gas, strengthen our manufacturing and auto industries, and provide good-paying, union jobs. As the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for the Show Me State, I look forward to working with state and local officials to maximize the benefits of these federal dollars.""

The funding comes from the Biden Administration's National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. Over the next 5 years, the NEVI Program will invest nearly $5 billion to help states implement a network of EV charging stations in urban, rural, and suburban communities across the nation. Additionally, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included a separate competitive grant program to further increase EV charging access, particularly in rural and underserved communities, which will be announced later this year.

More information on the EV infrastructure funding from the Department of Transportation is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-announces-first-round-new-transit-funding-headed-missouri,Rep. Cleaver Announces First Round of New Transit Funding Headed to Missouri and Kansas City Thanks to Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,2022-02-09,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) announced that the first round of new federal transit funding from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is heading to Missouri. The funding will modernize public transportation systems, create and support transit jobs across the state, make long overdue investments to upgrade transportation facilities, including new buses and railcars, and fund other key local projects throughout the Show Me State. Missouri will receive more than $46 million as the first installment of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's five-year investment of more than $674 million to improve public transit in Missouri. As part of that initial installment, Kansas City will directly receive more than $4.8 million for local transit projects and initiatives. Congressman Cleaver voted in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed into law by President Biden in November of last year.

""Once again, I am thrilled to announce another $46 million are coming back to our home state thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and President Biden's resolute commitment to ensuring communities across the country are able to build back better from the pandemic-induced recession of 2020,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I am proud to have helped deliver this historic and long overdue investment in our public transit systems, which will help to transition to electric buses and other sustainable public transportation, improve reliability and decrease commute times for hardworking Missourians, and support good-paying, union jobs like those at UAW Local 249 and ATU Local 1287. It was a dedication to bipartisanship that enabled President Biden's historic infrastructure bill to be signed into law, and as this funding begins to be disbursed, I look forward to working with state and local officials on a bipartisan basis to meet the transportation needs of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri.""

For decades now, transit systems across the United States have suffered from inadequate federal investment, leading to disruptions and increasing travel times for passengers. According to the White House, Missourians who take public transportation spend an extra 79.6% of their time commuting, and non-White households are 10 times more likely to commute via public transportation. Additionally, 32% of transit vehicles in Missouri are past useful life. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, supported by Rep. Cleaver, represents the largest-ever investment in America's public transit. In Missouri, the first round of funding includes:

$25.8 million in flexible funding to help communities make transit safer and more efficient, fund new buses and rail cars, make track and station repairs, and other safety initiatives;

$12.6 million to ensure transit systems are in a state of good repair, improving reliability by rehabilitating trains and buses, tracks, power systems and transit stations;

$3.4 million to upgrade bus fleets and repair old buses and bus facilities; and

$3.4 million to support transit for seniors and persons with disabilities, funding key resources such as wheelchair lifts, mobility management programs and accessible transit vehicles.

The investments announced by Cleaver will be made available to transit agencies, States, and Tribal governments across the country for the first 4.5 months of fiscal year 2022. Additional funding will become available following passage of a full-year appropriations bill, which is currently being negotiated in the House of Representatives and Senate.

""With these critical investments in our public transit system, we have an opportunity to connect communities throughout the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri—which will help workers find more opportunities, enable greater economic development throughout the congressional district, and ensure the Kansas City Region continues to grow in an equitable fashion,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""That is what we mean when we talk about building back better—and with these historic investments, that's precisely what we're going to do.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-supports-america-competes-act-bolster-manufacturing-and,Rep. Cleaver Supports America COMPETES Act to Bolster Manufacturing and Strengthen America’s Competitiveness,2022-02-04,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted in favor of H.R. 4521, the America Creating Opportunities for Manufacturing Pre-Eminence in Technology and Economic Strength (America COMPETES) Act of 2022, which makes long overdue and historic new investments in research, innovation, and American manufacturing that will bolster domestic supply chains and ensure the United States remains competitive throughout the 21st century.

""For decades now, while China has demonstrated a national focus on supplanting the United States as the world's economic superpower, the U.S. has failed to make the kind of investments needed to maintain our edge in innovation and domestic manufacturing—which has left our supply chains vulnerable and led to price increases for American consumers,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""With the America COMPETES Act, we have an opportunity to return good-paying manufacturing jobs that provide critical goods made right here in America. As a dedicated defender of American workers, I'm proud to have supported this important piece of legislation, and I'm hopeful we can get it to President Biden's desk as soon as possible with bipartisan support.""

Provisions from the America COMPETES Act that will accelerate American innovation and competitiveness include:

Producing Critically Important Semiconductors in America by appropriating $52 billion for much-needed investments that support American technological leadership in semiconductor fabrication, address semiconductor supply chain disruptions, and ensure more semiconductors are made in America.

Fixing the Supply Chain and Strengthening American Manufacturing by authorizing $45 billion to shore up our broken supply chain that has increasingly relied on foreign manufacturing instead of making goods at home with American workers. The funding will help to build more critical components in America, strengthen our domestic manufacturing industry, and protect our national security by preventing shortages and disruptions like those we've seen during the global pandemic.

Advancing American Scientific Research, Technological Development, and Innovation by including numerous bipartisan science, research, and technology bills that invest in cutting edge technologies and maximize America's talent pool by diversifying our nation's STEM workforce.

Securing America's Global Competitiveness and Leadership Through Economic Development, Diplomacy, and Human Rights by including funding for global partnerships and alliances, expanding investments in diplomacy, and promoting human rights causes around the world.

In June, the U.S. Senate passed similar legislation entitled the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act with bipartisan support. The bills will now go to conference to see if the House and Senate can reconcile differences between the two pieces of legislation. Once differences are reconciled, the bill will be voted on again by both chambers for final passage before it can be signed into law by President Biden.

""I'm confident that the House and Senate will be able to forge a strong bipartisan compromise that ensures America's competitiveness throughout the 21st century,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""Failure to do so would be the greatest gift we could give to our Chinese counterparts.""

Official text of the America COMPETES Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-applauds-epas-selection-heartland-conservation-alliance,Rep. Cleaver Applauds the EPA’s Selection of Heartland Conservation Alliance for Workforce Development Funding Provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,2022-02-02,2022,2022-02,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Kansas City, MO) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of 19 organizations to receive a total of $3.8 million in Brownfields Job Training Grants to boost workforce training in underserved, overburdened communities. Among the organizations selected to receive grant funding is the Heartland Conservation Alliance, located in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri. The grants announced today award $200,000 to each grantee and will prepare over 1,000 individuals for new environmental jobs.

""The transformational Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is, once again, highlighting the tremendous opportunity it creates for communities throughout this nation to build back better,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration's demonstrated commitment to advancing economic opportunities and delivering environmental justice to underserved communities throughout Missouri and the entire country. The selection of the Heartland Conservation Alliance as stewards of this funding is a testament to the impactful work the organization carries out to protect and preserve public spaces throughout our metropolitan area for generations to come. I'm proud to have supported the legislation that made this funding possible, and I will continue working on a bipartisan basis to ensure organizations like the Heartland Conservation Alliance have the resources they need to continue their important work.""

The Environmental Protection Agency's Brownfields Job Training Grants provide funding to organizations that are working to create a skilled workforce in communities where assessment, cleanup, and preparation of brownfield sites for reuse activities are taking place. Rather than filling local jobs with contractors from distant cities, the selected organizations provide training and offer residents of communities historically affected by environmental pollution, economic divestment, and brownfields an opportunity to gain the skills and certifications needed to secure local environmental work in their communities. Individuals typically graduate with a variety of certifications that improve their marketability and help ensure that employment opportunities are not temporary, but long-term careers.

The Heartland Conservation Alliance plans to train 54 students and place at least 27 in environmental jobs. The training program includes over 180 hours of instruction in 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Power (HAZWOPER), Build Trybe EcoServices Job Training, and OSHA Safety Training. Students who complete the training will earn up to two federal certifications. Heartland Conservation Alliance is targeting at-risk students aging out of foster care across Kansas City, Missouri",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:57:46Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-designating,"Reps. Cleaver, Graves Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Designating National Passenger Safety Week",2022-01-25,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced a bipartisan resolution to officially designate the week of January 23, 2022, as National Passenger Safety Week. The resolution highlights the important role passengers play in reducing traffic fatalities and the need to educate and encourage passengers to advocate for their own safety to prevent dangerous, distracted, and impaired driving.

""Whether it's asking your child to wear a seatbelt or taking the keys from a friend who has had too much to drink, it's incredibly important that passengers speak up when they get in the car with a friend or family member who may be distracted, impaired, or driving dangerously"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""With a troubling increase of traffic fatalities in recent years, it's critical that we bring this issue to the forefront and begin to educate the American people about the role passengers play in preventing impaired and dangerous driving, which can result in the unnecessary loss of life. Reducing traffic tragedies and increasing passenger and driver safety is an issue that every American can get behind, and that's why I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan, common sense resolution marking National Passenger Safety Week with Representative Graves.""

""National Passenger Safety Week is an important reminder that we all have a role to play when it comes to reducing the number of traffic fatalities and increasing safety on our roadways. With historic increases in traffic deaths in recent years, despite Americans traveling fewer miles, there's no better time to encourage passengers to speak out and stand up to stop dangerous, distracted, and impaired driving before it claims a life,"" said Representative Graves.

According to estimates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), passenger deaths accounted for 25% of all traffic deaths nationwide in 2019. Traffic deaths as a whole increased by 7% in 2020 and another 18% in 2021, despite data showing there was a 13% decrease in vehicle miles traveled. According to NHTSA data, the main behaviors leading to these increases were speeding, impaired driving, and failure to wear seat belts.

Official text of the resolution from Cleaver and Graves is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-applauds-appointment-ulysses-deke-clayborn-be-hud,Congressman Cleaver Applauds Appointment of Ulysses “Deke” Clayborn to be HUD Region 7 Administrator,2022-01-20,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) applauded President Biden's appointment of Ulysses ""Deke"" Clayborn to be the next Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Region 7 Administrator.

""Due to his lengthy track record demonstrating a passion for public service, expertise in development, and commitment to ensuring every Missourian has access to affordable housing, I was honored to nominate Deke for the esteemed and pivotal position of Regional Administrator,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I commend President Biden for this excellent decision, and I look forward to working with Mr. Clayborn as we continue the difficult work of building back better from a global pandemic.""

Mr. Clayborn was most recently the managing member of Clayborn & Associates, LLC, which specializes in real estate development. He has served as counsel on numerous development projects, most of which have been multi-layered, with the funding sources utilized to develop these projects including multifamily revenue bonds, low-income housing tax credits, historic tax credits, New Market Tax Credits, and HUD-insured financing.

Prior to establishing his own firm, Mr. Clayborn served as the General Counsel to the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC), which finances the development of single and multifamily housing in Missouri. Previously, he has also worked for the Regional Counsel's Office at HUD. Mr. Clayborn received his bachelor's degree in political science from DePauw University, a juris doctorate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and a master of laws in taxation from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cleaver-tests-positive-covid-19,Congressman Cleaver Tests Positive For COVID-19,2022-01-19,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) tested positive for COVID-19 and released the following statement.

""This afternoon, I tested positive for COVID-19. While I am experiencing very minor cold-like symptoms, because I am vaccinated and boosted, I am confident that I will be protected from severe illness.

""At the guidance of the Office of Attending Physician and CDC guidelines, I will isolate while recovering from the infection. Until I am experiencing no symptoms and have completed my quarantine, I will continue to work remotely on behalf of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri.

""As always, I am thankful for the all of the frontline health care heroes who have worked tirelessly over the past two years to keep the American people safe and healthy during this global pandemic. I encourage every American to get vaccinated and boosted against this deadly virus. It could save your life.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z
https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-cleaver-cosponsors-legislation-prevent-insider-trading-members,Rep. Cleaver Cosponsors Legislation to Prevent Insider Trading By Members of Congress,2022-01-19,2022,2022-01,Democrat,House,MO,Emanuel Cleaver,C001061,cleaver.house.gov,cleaver,https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) cosponsored H.R. 336, the Transparent Representation Upholding Service and Trust (TRUST) in Congress Act, to prevent insider trading in Congress. The TRUST in Congress Act would increase government transparency and reduce corruption in Congress by requiring Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children to place certain investments into a qualified blind trust while serving in Congress.

""This is common sense,"" said Congressman Cleaver.

Specifically, the TRUST in Congress Act would:

Require all Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children to put certain investment assets into a qualified blind trust within 90 days after the enactment of the bill. Members would be able to remove assets from the blind trust 180 days after leaving Congress;

Require all Members to either certify to the Clerk of the House of Representatives or the Secretary of the Senate that they have established a blind trust to include covered investments or certify to the Clerk or the Secretary that they do not own any covered investments. The status of these certifications would then be made publicly available; and

Define covered investments as: a security, commodity, future, or any comparable economic interest acquired through synthetic means such as the use of a derivative.

""I'm proud to join Representative Spanberger to cosponsor this common sense, bipartisan piece of legislation,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""At a time when the American public's trust in our democratic institutions—and, specifically, Members of Congress—is at a low point, it is imperative that Congress take steps to increase transparency and government accountability, while rooting out the potential for corruption amongst those who would abuse the public's trust for personal profit. It is critical that the American people know their representatives in Congress are voting for the best interests of the people—not their stock portfolios—which is why we must pass the TRUST in Congress Act.""

Official text of the TRUST in Congress Act is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:50:39Z