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://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1990,Congresswoman Scanlon Announces Winner of 2025 Congressional App Challenge,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Mary Gay Scanlon,S001205,scanlon.house.gov,scanlon,https://scanlon.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge. The Congressional App Challenge (CAC) is an opportunity for students in PA-05 to create and submit their original app for a chance to win the Challenge competing against students from all over the country. In order to participate in the competition: Students must be in middle or high school by the time the competition ends and must either live or go to school in the registered district they wish to compete in; and, apps can be coded on any platform, on any language, on any theme. “The annual Congressional App Challenge is a great program that engages our youth in STEM-related fields,” said Rep. Scanlon. “At a time when science and technology fields are rapidly evolving, it’s important that we invest in programs that help our youth develop skills for success in the future. I’m pleased to celebrate all of our participants this year and congratulate this year’s winner.” A team of judges evaluated six submissions using a rubric to rate each of the apps along two general categories — Concept and Technology. This year’s first-place winner is Allison Tan from Lower Merion High School, who came up with OpiWarrior, an iOS app that helps people quickly find nearby pharmacies that stock buprenorphine, a life-saving medication for opioid use disorder. Runner up Christopher Armstrong from Strath Haven High School coded the app Coaster Dreams, a minimalistic, open-ended roller coaster design video game. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-releases-end-year-report-highlighting-2025-accomplishments,"Congressman Deluzio Releases End of Year Report Highlighting 2025 Accomplishments, Priorities for 2026",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) released his 2025 End of Year Report, detailing many of his actions and accomplishments this year and overviewing his focus areas for 2026. Some of the highlights from the report include: Helped bring Marc Fogel home after more than three years of wrongful imprisonment in Russia Secured the most federal funding for district of any U.S. House Democrat in the Appropriations Committee-passed spending bills Congressman Deluzio's bill renaming the Sewickley Post Office in honor of local historian and author Bettie Cole unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives Rep. Deluzio successfully fought back against the closure of Navy Reserve Centers in Moon Township and across the country Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District received $923 million in federal grantsand contracts in 2025 Since taking office in 2023, Congressman Deluzio and his office have: Returned $10.3 million back to Western Pennsylvanians through things like helping get delayed tax refunds and earned benefits Seen more than $4.6 billion in federal funding come home to PA’s 17th Congressional District Closed more than 3,200 constituent cases, helping people with problems with federal agencies Introduced 40 bills Co-sponsored 854 bills “Despite all the progress we’ve made together, there’s a lot of work left to do. With the skyrocketing costs of housing, utilities, health care, and groceries; corruption running rampant and rigging the system; and corporate monopolies putting the squeeze on small businesses and workers, the American Dream has been ripped away,” wrote Congressman Deluzio in his report. “Too many people who work hard and play by the rules are barely treading water, while huge corporations and the ultra-rich do better than ever. We’ve got to take on corporate power and corruption and restore the American Dream.” A copy of Congressman Deluzio’s 2025 End of Year Report can be downloaded here. To learn more about what he’s been working on this year, check out recent announcements and press releases from Congressman Deluzio on his website. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-announces-winner-of-the-2025-congressional-app-challenge-for-pa-12,Rep. Summer Lee Announces Winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for PA-12,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – DECEMBER 22, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) announced Upper St. Clair High School student Jeffery Zhang as the 2025 Congressional App Challenge Winner for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District for his innovative computational-chemistry application, Isomer Enumerator. The Congressional App Challenge, the largest student computer science competition in the nation, saw record-breaking participation this year: 394 Members of the House hosted competitions — the most in program history. 13,830 students participated nationwide, an increase of nearly 1,200 over last year. 4,650 original applications were submitted — almost 800 more than the previous record. More than 56% of all submissions integrated Artificial Intelligence, marking a transformative leap in student-driven innovation. Students reported resoundingly positive impacts: 91% are now more likely to pursue STEM careers, 89% plan to keep coding, and 86% would recommend the program to a friend. “Jeffery’s work is such a powerful reminder of the brilliance and creativity we have right here in Western Pennsylvania,” said Congresswoman Lee. “When our young people are given the support and opportunities they deserve, they show us new ways of thinking and they redefine what is possible. Jeffery took a complex scientific challenge and turned it into something extraordinary, something that can genuinely help researchers and scientists. That kind of curiosity, hard work, and imagination is exactly what gives me hope for the future. We are so proud of him here in PA-12, and we cannot wait to cheer him on as he represents us at the House of Code event next spring.” About the Winning App: Isomer Enumerator by Jeffery Zhang Zhang’s web-based application, Isomer Enumerator, is designed for use in computational chemistry and cheminformatics, helping researchers and developers analyze molecular structures in the search for new materials and drugs. Using Python and JavaScript, Zhang built a highly sophisticated backend from scratch—designing original classes to model chemical bonds, electrons, and structural rules without relying on external packages. His app: Generates and enumerates all possible linear, constitutional isomers of a given molecule. Applies chemically realistic constraints to exclude unstable or nonviable structures. Provides key chemical insights — including polarity, hybridization, and molecular geometry. Implements optimized combinatorial algorithms and graph-theory logic to reduce compute time from hours to seconds for many molecules. Zhang shared that the project was inspired by a question raised in AP Chemistry: “Why is there no simple way to count molecular isomers?” His exploration led him deep into combinatorics, graph theory, and chemistry — ultimately producing a tool capable of generating hundreds of chemically feasible structures in minutes. Zhang completed the project independently at home and plans to continue developing the app, including creating a more advanced 3D visualization engine and exploring faster computations using C++ and parallel processing. He has also elected to pursue Congressional Certification through Hack Club. Jeffery Zhang will be honored at #HouseOfCode in April 2026, where students will present their apps to lawmakers and leaders in technology and innovation on Capitol Hill. A video demonstration of the winning project is available AT THIS LINK.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congress-passes-whole-milk-healthy-kids-act,Congress Passes Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act,2025-12-21,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved the bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025. Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) co-sponsored the bill that was led by fellow Pennsylvanian, Rep. G.T. Thompson (PA-15). It has since passed the Senate and awaits being signed into law by the President. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act provides schools with the flexibility to offer whole and 2% milk options, helping ensure children receive the nutrition they need to grow, thrive, and succeed in the classroom and beyond. “Parents should have the freedom to choose what kind of milk their kids get at school,” said Congressman Deluzio. “But current federal programs do not allow kids to have whole or 2% milk at school lunch programs. I’m proud that the Congress acted to fix this and give the full range of milk options to families in Pennsylvania and across the country."" The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is supported by many groups including the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Milk Producers Federation, the International Dairy Foods Association, and the American Dairy Coalition. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-deluzio-goldman-introduce-legislation-lower-cost-stadium,"Congressmen Deluzio, Goldman Introduce Legislation to Lower Cost of Stadium Concessions",2025-12-20,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressmen Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Dan Goldman (NY-10) introduced the Honest Oversight of Ticketed Dining and Onsite Grub (HOTDOG) Act to direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct a nationwide study of concession pricing practices at sports venues. Despite the significant public investment into sports venues, the cost of many concessions is too expensive for the typical American family. The average lowest price for a hot dog across MLB’s 30 ballparks in 2024 was nearly $6. Hardworking families should be able to afford to take a break and see a game—at venues supported by their tax dollars—without massive price markups. Hardworking families are already struggling to pay rising prices because of Donald Trump's reckless “trickle-down” economic policies, and being charged inflated prices for concessions at publicly funded stadiums adds insult to injury. The HOTDOG Act would shine a much-needed light on exploitative pricing practices and allow the FTC, lawmakers, and, most importantly, hardworking families to gain more transparency into potential price gouging by venues and determine best practices for affordable pricing. ""One of life’s great joys is a hot dog and a cold beer or pop watching the Black and Gold. But concessions at pro stadiums across the country have become a ripoff, with so many teams pricing out fans and families,"" said Congressman Deluzio. ""Congressman Goldman and I are introducing the HOTDOG Act to require the Federal Trade Commission to find ways to stop this price gouging. People should be able to go enjoy a game and grab a bite or a drink without breaking the bank."" “We’ve got to ensure that hardworking families can afford to enjoy nights out at ball games - especially when their hard earned tax dollars are supporting big sporting projects across the state and country.” Congressman Dan Goldman said, “That’s why I’m leading legislation to push to ensure that we have a better understanding of how stadiums and sports organizations are pricing concessions. Federal dollars should be used for the benefit of the people, not just the benefit of the corporations or the owners.” The HOTDOG Act would direct the FTC to evaluate pricing practices at professional sports stadiums that were constructed or are operated with public subsidy funds. The FTC would examine the prices of comparable food and drinks inside and outside stadiums; pricing practices such as dynamic pricing, service fees, and promotions; transparency of concession prices to consumers, and other types of pricing policies. The bill requires the FTC to issue a report to Congress detailing the results of the study and any recommendations for legislative, regulatory, or industry action to improve affordability and transparency. he HOTDOG Act is endorsed by Groundwork Collaborative, Sports Fan Coalition, and Public Citizen. “Any American who's been to the ballpark or a concert recently knows that, too often, a stop by the snack counter can feel like a shakedown,” said Alex Jacquez, Chief of Policy and Advocacy at Groundwork Collaborative. “Working families are already struggling to pay rising prices thanks to Trump's reckless economic agenda, and being charged inflated prices for concessions at publicly-funded facilities adds insult to injury. Rep. Goldman’s legislation would bring much-needed transparency to pricing practices at stadiums and other venues so Americans can enjoy their favorite pastimes without feeling ripped off."" ""For too long, fans have been gouged at the concession stand in the same venues built with their own tax dollars,” said Brian Hess, Executive Director, Sports Fans Coalition. “The HOTDOG Act will shine a much-needed light on exploitative pricing practices and help identify solutions that make attending games affordable for working families again. When taxpayers invest hundreds of millions into stadiums, they deserve transparency about why a hot dog costs three times what it does on the street outside. We applaud Representatives Goldman and Deluzio for taking this important first step toward holding venues accountable and making game day affordable for American families."" ""Public Citizen is singularly focused on fighting for everyday Americans—especially during an affordability crisis that is stretching family budgets to the breaking point,” said Joshua Miller, Director of Congress Watch at Public Citizen. “When taxpayers help finance stadiums and arenas, working families should not be priced out of attending games or gouged once they walk through the door. This bill is about fairness, transparency, and basic respect for the public."" Original cosponsors of the bill include Reps. Troy Carter (LA-02), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Pat Ryan (NY-18), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Chuy García (IL-04), and Robert Garcia (CA-42). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/dean-warren-democrats-urge-commerce-department-watchdog-to-investigate-lutnick-family-s-conflicts-of-interest-impact-on-ai-data-center-decisions,"Dean, Warren, Democrats Urge Commerce Department Watchdog to Investigate Lutnick Family’s Conflicts of Interest, Impact on AI Data Center Decisions",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led Members of Congress in pressing U.S. Department of Commerce Acting Inspector General Duane Townsend to open an investigation into Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and his family’s apparent conflicts of interest involving artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. ""Because the billionaire Lutnick family has significant financial investments in data centers—and the electricity needs of those data centers drive up utility bills for families across the country—there is a substantial public interest in ensuring that Secretary Lutnick is not violating federal ethics law to propel data centers that will be profitable for his family while making life more expensive for working Americans,” the lawmakers wrote. For decades, Secretary Lutnick owned and led the financial services firm Cantor Fitzgerald. After signing an ethics agreement requiring that he divest his stake in Cantor and months after his deadline for divesting, he transferred much of his stake to his adult sons. They now lead Cantor and have a controlling ownership stake in it, creating an extraordinary situation in which the office of the Commerce Secretary intersects significantly with the financial interests of the Secretary’s own family. Cantor is heavily invested in the AI data center industry, with “unprecedented data center expansion” reportedly helping fuel the company’s most profitable year on record. Recent reports reveal that, as head of the Commerce Department, Secretary Lutnick helped boost AI data centers in ways that may enrich his own family. In addition to public appearances promoting projects — including at least one his family’s company has worked on — Lutnick has also reportedly pressured foreign governments to invest in the U.S. data center industry, and money from those deals could flow to a Lutnick-linked firm. “While the rapid growth of data centers is proving to be lucrative for the Lutnick family, it is also making it harder for American families to pay their monthly utility bills,” the lawmakers continued. Data centers are pushing energy costs up to record highs across the country, pulling American households into paying the price. When utility companies spend billions on new electricity infrastructure to support data centers, they may charge more to local households connected to the grid to offset that cost. In some communities, bills have skyrocketed by more than 250 percent over just the past five years. “In short, we are concerned that Secretary Lutnick’s official actions to boost AI data centers could be influenced by his conflicts of interest — and that these actions come at the expense of everyday Americans who are forced to bear the higher energy costs of the data centers that are inflating the Lutnick family’s wealth,” the lawmakers concluded. The members urged the Acting Inspector General to carefully review the ethics concerns surrounding the Lutnick family, including whether or not Secretary Lutnick has violated his obligations as a public official. The following members also signed on: Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Representatives Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.), Glenn Ivey (D-Md.), Yassamin Ansari (D-Ariz.), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Summer Lee (D-Pa.), Nikema Williams (D-Ga.), Valerie Foushee (D-N.C.), Morgan McGarvey (D-Ky.), Gilbert Ray Cisneros (D-Calif.), André Carson (D-Ind.), Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), Seth Magaziner (D-R.I.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Julia Brownley (D-Calif.), Sean Casten (D-Ill.), and Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). Read the full text of the letter here. Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-democratic-veterans-raise-alarm-after-internal-documents-reveal-trump,"Deluzio, Democratic Veterans Raise Alarm After Internal Documents Reveal Trump VA’s Plan to Slash Healthcare Jobs",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Co-Chair of the Democratic Veterans Caucus and Iraq War veteran Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) was joined by his fellow Co-Chair and veteran Pat Ryan (NY-18) and other members of the Democratic Veterans Caucus to raise the alarm on the Trump Administration VA’s efforts to cut around 35,000 healthcare jobs at the VA. This will hurt veterans’ healthcare, likely drive up wait times, and force veterans into less accountable, more expensive, and worse healthcare with private providers who lack veterans’ expertise. The Democratic members of Congress attending the event included Representatives Seth Moulton (MA-6), Mike Thompson (CA-4), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Bobby Scott (GA- and Eugene Vindman (VA-7). At an event at the U.S. Capitol today, the group of Democratic veterans shared information from recently obtained internal VA documents that reveal the regional breakdown of job cuts at VA Medical Centers across the country. Congressman Deluzio also shared takeaways from internal Pittsburgh VA materials that specifically show that the VA serving his region in Western Pennsylvania plans to cut 481 jobs under the Trump Administration’s plan. “I believe in the sacred promise that those who sign up and serve our country will have a VA that is able to deliver on the promise of care that veterans earned,” said Congressman Deluzio. “Now, internal documents are showing that the Trump Administration VA is cutting around 35,000 VA healthcare jobs across the country, and just under 500 jobs in VA Pittsburgh. This includes clinical healthcare roles like doctors and nurses and will of course hurt veterans’ care. This effort to gut healthcare jobs and sell off the VA is a betrayal. The Democratic Veterans Caucus came together today to raise the alarm to urge Secretary Collins to back off from these dangerous job cuts. In Pennsylvania, people—especially veterans—are getting fired up about this dumb plan, and I’m going to keep fighting to get my fellow veterans the care they’ve earned.” Congressman Deluzio is a fighter for his fellow veterans and a fully staffed and funded VA. He previously took on the Trump Administration VA for stalling cancer trials and hurting veterans’ healthcare, and has written several opinion pieces in The Hill and Military.com on the Washington GOP’s effort to sell off and privatize VA healthcare.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-statement-passage-hr-4776,Deluzio Statement on Passage of H.R. 4776,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“This country needs permitting reform and we needed it yesterday. We need to step up and make the system work better to make sure we can reliably power the country and build it to be stronger and cleaner in the future. “While I voted yes today in support of this labor-backed bill, I have concerns with the final version that passed the House today. I hope the Senate will act to fix the bill that threatens clean energy industries and the union jobs that they create. I have often said we need an all-of-the-above approach to energy to deliver cheaper and cleaner power, and the current version of this bill puts its thumb on the scale to favor non-renewables. I urge the Senate to strip the anti-energy competition language from the bill, and I hope that the Congress can pass a substantive, bipartisan permitting reform bill into law.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/monopoly-busters-caucus-chairs-call-investigation-instacarts-personalized,Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Call for an Investigation into Instacart’s Personalized Price Gouging,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs, Representatives Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Angie Craig (MN-02), released the following statement calling for an investigation into Instacart’s reported use of AI-driven surveillance pricing to charge different customers different prices for the same items: “We are deeply alarmed by reports that Instacart is using AI to hike prices on unsuspecting customers based on their shopping habits. People shouldn’t be charged higher prices than their neighbors for the same milk or eggs because their grocery app is profiling them. This is personalized price gouging, plain and simple. “While hardworking Americans struggle to afford groceries, corporations like Instacart are inventing new ways to rip them off. Surveillance pricing is a blatant abuse of power by big tech — automating greed and making consumers pay the price. “Enough is enough. With Instacart processing hundreds of millions of orders yearly, these practices warrant urgent action. The FTC and state regulators must immediately investigate Instacart and hold it accountable for ripping off its customers. And we need to ban personalized price gouging to ensure that everyone pays a fair price.” Background Instacart’s pricing tactics are detailed in a new report from Groundwork Collaborative and Consumer Reports, ""Same Cart, Different Price."" The report describes how Instacart uses AI-driven ""price experiments"" to maximize margins by charging different customers different prices for identical items at the same store. According to the report, Instacart deploys software from its subsidiary Eversight to identify the highest price an individual is willing to pay. This results in observed price swings as high as 23% and a potential ""Instacart Tax"" of $1,200 per year for a typical family. The investigation found that 74% of items tested were subject to these secret experiments. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4866,Bio-partisanship and Leadership at Launch of Congressional Biotechnology Caucus,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Hoover Institution (Stanford, CA, December 2025) — Hoover Science and Senior Fellow Drew Endy joined leaders from government, industry, charities, and academia in Washington, DC, for the public launch of the Congressional Biotechnology Caucus on December 2, 2025. Nearly 200 members of Congress, staffers, and biotechnology leaders convened for the event. The strong participation showcased growing bipartisan support for strengthening America’s leadership in biotechnology. Established earlier this year, the caucus already includes roughly 40 members from both parties. The mission of the caucus is to equip policymakers and staff with the knowledge and networks needed to ensure the United States leads responsibly and effectively in biotechnology. The caucus’s initial work includes advancing biosecurity, enabling innovation, growing the domestic bioeconomy, and expanding opportunities for biotechnology to solve problems at all scales. The launch event, themed “Biotechnology means ,” highlighted the expansive possibilities of biotechnology, not only in medicine but also in materials science, information technology, manufacturing, and more. Endy, who leads Hoover’s Bio-Strategies and Leadership (BSL) initiative, spoke after Reps. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Pete Sessions (R-TX). “We think we know what biotechnology is but, when I reflect on biotechnology today, it feels like when I was a kid in the 1970s; we thought we knew what computers were back then,” Endy said “Biotechnology today is poised to become routine, pervasive, networked, and generative; more wondrous than most imagine.” “Biotechnology can also be scary,” Endy added. “That’s not bad news, rather an extraordinary opportunity. Fear’s gift, if invited out into the open, is a chance to become courageous together.” “Biotechnology is also about freedom. Biotechnology gives us options for making the things we need when and where we need them. Biotechnology gives the American people options for having good lives.” Endy also celebrated the bipartisan nature of the caucus, noting that all-hands support for advancing biotechnology responsibly should be known as “bio-partisanship.” Other speakers highlighted the critical importance of biotechnology education for lawmakers and their staffs. Among them, caucus cochair Houlahan noted that only a small fraction of members of Congress have STEM backgrounds and that many have not taken a science class since high school, making bio-literacy efforts by the caucus and groups like Hoover’s BSL all the more essential. Hoover’s BSL serves as a founding member of the Biotech Caucus’s Advisory Coalition, building on BSL’s broader work to improve bio-literacy among decision makers and to advance the Hoover Technology Policy Accelerator’s work more broadly. In recent months, BSL team members have met with senators, representatives, administration officials, and staff across Washington and beyond for briefings on biotechnology and biosecurity as well as discussions of emerging policy recommendations. BSL’s public education mission continued on this most recent trip, with the team meeting several senior lawmakers from both parties and chambers. Together, these and other BSL activities reflect the program’s commitment to helping leaders recognize biology as a strategic domain and to act in ways that advance flourishing and democratic futures soon enough to matter. For more information about BSL, visit victory.stanford.edu or email Sarah Moront (smoront@stanford.edu).",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4867,"Houlahan, Democratic Veterans Raise Alarm After Internal Documents Reveal Trump VA’s Plan to Slash Healthcare Jobs",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) joined Co-Chair of the Democratic Veterans Caucus and Iraq War veteran Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17), his fellow Co-Chair and veteran Pat Ryan (NY-18) and other members of the Democratic Veterans Caucus to raise the alarm on the Trump Administration VA’s efforts to cut around 35,000 healthcare jobs at the VA. This will hurt veterans’ healthcare, likely drive up wait times, and force veterans into less accountable, more expensive, and worse healthcare with private providers who lack veterans’ expertise. The Democratic members of Congress attending the event included Representatives Seth Moulton (MA-6), Mike Thompson, Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Bobby Scott (GA- and Eugene Vindman (VA-7). At an event at the U.S. Capitol today, the group of Democratic veterans shared information from recently obtained internal VA documents that reveal the regional breakdown of job cuts at VA Medical Centers across the country. Congressman Deluzio also shared takeaways from internal Pittsburgh VA materials that specifically show that the VA serving his region in Western Pennsylvania plans to cut 481 jobs under the Trump Administration’s plan. “I believe in the sacred promise that those who sign up and serve our country will have a VA that is able to deliver on the promise of care that veterans earned,” said Congressman Deluzio. “Now, internal documents are showing that the Trump Administration VA is cutting around 35,000 VA healthcare jobs across the country, and just under 500 jobs in VA Pittsburgh. This includes clinical healthcare roles like doctors and nurses and will of course hurt veterans’ care. This effort to gut healthcare jobs and sell off the VA is a betrayal. The Democratic Veterans Caucus came together today to raise the alarm to urge Secretary Collins to back off from these dangerous job cuts. In Pennsylvania, people—especially veterans—are getting fired up about this dumb plan, and I’m going to keep fighting to get my fellow veterans the care they’ve earned.” Congressman Deluzio is a fighter for his fellow veterans and a fully staffed and funded VA. He previously took on the Trump Administration VA for stalling cancer trials and hurting veterans’ healthcare, and has written several opinion pieces in The Hill and Military.com on the Washington GOP’s effort to sell off and privatize VA healthcare.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4858,"Houlahan Leads Bipartisan ""IVF for Military Families Act""",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Washington, D.C. — After IVF coverage for military families was stripped from the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act last week, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Rep. Nick LaLota (NY-01) and Rep. Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act to continue the fight to deliver this much-needed and deserved care for active duty service members and their dependents. This legislation mirrors text that was unanimously adopted on a bipartisan basis by the House Armed Services Committee and passed the House earlier this year. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan said: “Military families already sacrifice so much in service to our country, and they should not be forced to put their dreams of starting a family on hold because TRICARE fails to cover medically necessary fertility care. Servicemembers should never have to choose between serving their country and building a family. This bipartisan bill recognizes infertility as a real medical condition and ensures servicemembers and their families have access to fertility care without unnecessary barriers. Supporting military readiness means supporting the people who serve.” Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “Like I said last week, the fight isn’t over. Our military families shouldn’t be denied IVF access just because of politics while bearing the physical and emotional costs of service. Civilian employers are increasingly providing IVF coverage to their employees, and it’s even accessible to every Member of Congress and their staff, but the military is still lagging behind. This is creating an acute readiness and retention crisis because our military families are forced to pay tens of thousands of dollars out-of-pocket for IVF, forgo having children, or leave the military to get private coverage instead. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act to give our service members every opportunity to build their families.” “Since 2023, Congress has rightly focused on strengthening military recruitment and retention by increasing troop pay, improving housing, expanding health care, and investing in quality of life for servicemembers and their families. Now, Congress should expand access to IVF, as many civilian employers already do, to build on that progress and help ensure America maintains the most lethal fighting force the world has ever known,” said Rep. Nick LaLota (NY-01). “Military families already sacrifice so much in service to our nation. Access to IVF and fertility care shouldn’t depend on financial means. The Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act of 2026 is about fairness and keeping faith with the men and women who serve by ensuring TRICARE covers the fertility treatments they need to build their families,” said Rep. Kiggans.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1988,Congresswoman Scanlon’s Bipartisan Bill to Support Firefighters with Service-Related Cancers Heads to the President’s Desk,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Mary Gay Scanlon,S001205,scanlon.house.gov,scanlon,https://scanlon.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) today applauded the final passage of her bipartisan bill that will expand access to federal death and disability benefits for families of firefighters and other first responders who contract service-related cancers. The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which now heads to the President's desk for signature, will expand the Public Safety Officer’s Benefits Program (PSOB) to cover specific cancers linked to firefighting and emergency response, and make the expansion retroactive, so that families can claim PSOB benefits for deceased loved ones. Today, cancer is the leading cause of death for America’s firefighters. Currently, firefighters are only eligible for support under the Public Safety Officer Benefits (PSOB) program for physical injuries sustained in the line of duty or for deaths from duty-related heart attacks, strokes, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and 9/11-related illnesses. But this program does not cover service-related cancer deaths, despite a wealth of evidence linking first responder service to developing cancer. The bill is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), and 10 other organizations representing first responders. The bill is co-led by Representatives Carlos Gimenez (FL-28), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), and Gabe Amo (RI-01). Its Senate counterpart is led by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MG) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “Every day, firefighters and police officers face exposure to deadly carcinogens that take a devastating toll long after the flames are out,” said Rep. Scanlon. “I have had many conversations with the families of fallen firefighters who not only have to deal with the pain of losing a loved one, but who also face the struggle of supporting themselves financially when the primary breadwinner is gone. When first responders develop cancer because of their service, they and their families deserve our full support. That’s why I spent the better part of this year working to advance my bill to close this benefits gap. In the end, we brought together 175 Democrats and Republicans over shared values: respect for service, care for grieving families, and the belief that our country must honor sacrifice not just in remembrance, but through tangible support. I am grateful to my colleagues who joined me in building bipartisan consensus for this bill, which required setting aside partisanship and focusing on our fundamental obligations to one another as a nation.” “I also want to extend a special thanks to the International Association of Fire Fighters for bringing the experiences of firefighters and their families to the forefront, ensuring that this work stayed grounded in real lives and real sacrifice,"" Rep. Scanlon continued. “Lastly, I’m deeply grateful to the families, advocates, and colleagues whose voices and perseverance helped turn loss into lasting change.” On December 3, 2025, Scanlon and Gimenez led a bipartisan coalition of 36 lawmakers urging congressional leadership to ensure the inclusion of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R. 1269 / S. 237) in the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). A week later, on December 10, it passed the House, teeing it up for the Senate to clear and send to the President’s desk today. “The IAFF is thankful for the leadership demonstrated by Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez in leading the House’s passage of the Honor Act. When enacted into law, the survivors of fallen fire fighters will receive the benefits that they have been denied for decades,” said IAFF General President Edward A. Kelly. Find the full bill text here. More about the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act: The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would expand the Public Safety Officer’s Benefits Program (PSOB) to cover certain cancers and cancer-related deaths. The PSOB program provides death, disability, and educational benefits to first responders who are killed or injured in the line of duty and their survivors. Firefighters are frequently exposed to carcinogens during their service and are more likely to develop and die from cancer as a result. Currently, the PSOB program does not cover cancer-related disabilities or death. The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would expand the PSOB program to cover specific cancers linked to firefighting and emergency response, and it would make this expansion retroactive so that families can claim PSOB benefits for deceased loved ones. The Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) program provides benefits to the survivors of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who are killed as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty. The program also provides disability benefits for first responders who become permanently or totally disabled. The Public Safety Officers' Educational Assistance (PSOEA) program, a component of the PSOB program, provides higher-education assistance to the children and spouses of public safety officers killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The PSOB and PSOEA programs are administered by the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). Complete list of endorsing organizations: International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association (Metro Chiefs), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), National Narcotics Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), and National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC). “Being a law enforcement officer is a dangerous job, and our members not only expose themselves to physical threats, but threats from hazardous environments as well. This bill finally recognizes the dangers that our officers place themselves in every day. The FOP is grateful to our allies in the House and Senate who supported our efforts,” said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police. “The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) is pleased to see the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act become law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. Occupational cancer—a leading cause of firefighter deaths—will now be recognized under the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program, helping to align federal policy with the realities of the job and ensure that firefighters and their families receive the support they need,” said CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb. “CFSI thanks Senators Klobuchar and Cramer, Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez, and all members of Congress who helped to pass this legislation. This marks a critical step forward in addressing the occupational cancer risks faced by our nation’s firefighters.” “The IAFC is grateful to see the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act included in the NDAA and on its way to being signed into law,” said Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford, the President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “This long overdue reform ensures that the families of fire, law enforcement, and EMS personnel who die or become disabled from occupational cancer receive the federal benefits they deserve. By including occupational cancers in the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program, Congress is honoring the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes and standing firmly with the families they leave behind. We commend the bipartisan champions, including Representatives Mary Gay Scanlon and Carlos A. Gimenez, the bill’s House sponsors, and Senators Amy Klobuchar and Kevin Cramer, the bill’s Senate sponsors, who advanced this critical measure and thank lawmakers in both chambers for their commitment to our nation’s fire and EMS personnel,” said Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford, the President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “On behalf of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, I applaud the House for passing this important bipartisan legislation. I especially would like to thank Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon and Congressman Carlos Gimenez for leading this effort,” said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep their communities safe. By recognizing fire service–related cancers under the PSOB program, we ensure that those who risk their health for others receive the support they and their families deserve. I especially want to thank our brave Fire Hero Families who tirelessly advocated for the passage of this vital legislation. Their dedication, passion, and tenacity are why this bill will soon become law.” “I applaud the leadership of Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez along with Senators Klobuchar and Cramer in getting the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act signed into law. This vital legislation will do a great deal to help the families of first responders who are too often left struggling after their loved ones are killed or permanently disabled after battles with occupation related cancer,” said Steve Hirsch, Chair, National Volunteer Fire Council. “Our nation’s law enforcement and public safety officers put their lives at risk each day. This certainly includes officers pulling families from polluted flood waters or rescuing children from house fires or responding to chemical spills. These acts of heroism often have long-term consequences for the officers, including exposure-related cancers. The passage of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act recognizes these cancers as line-of-duty injuries under the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program and ensures that these officers and their families are protected. We thank Representatives Scanlon and Gimenez for championing this important issue and working with us in support of our nation’s officers,” said Bill Johnson, Executive Director, National Association of Police Organizations. “On behalf of our law enforcement officers across the nation, I want to commend Representative Scanlon for securing the inclusion of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act in the NDAA,” said National President Mathew Silverman of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). “Its passage is a vital step in ensuring law enforcement officers who develop cancer due to their service receive the support and benefits they deserve. We are grateful for Representative Scanlon’s leadership and proud to stand with her in advancing this essential protection for our nation’s officers.” “The passage of the ‘Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act’ is a tremendous victory for the families of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other public safety personnel who succumb to job-related cancers,” said President Vincent Vallelong of the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association. “The 9/11 health crisis has made us well aware of the serious health risks that our members face from exposures to known carcinogens. The SBA is grateful for the leadership of Rep. Scanlon, and proud of our collaborative, bipartisan effort to ensure the inclusion of this important legislation in the final National Defense Authorization Act.” ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-mccormick-joint-statement-on-passage-of-whole-milk-for-healthy-kids-act-now-heads-to-presidents-desk/,"Fetterman, McCormick Joint Statement on Passage of Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, Now Heads to President’s Desk",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,PA,John Fetterman,F000479,www.fetterman.senate.gov,fetterman,https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – After clearing the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, legislation to allow schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and reduced fat milk. The bill passed on Monday and now heads to the president’s desk. Pennsylvania’s U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Dave McCormick (R-PA) released the following joint statement: “Whole milk IS BACK in America’s schools. “This is a commonsense bill that benefits everyone. PA farmers supply the country with some of the best milk year-round, and instead of limiting choices in our schools, this will expand the nutritious and healthy options for our kids.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-rulli-introduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-ssi-benefits-disaster-victims,"Deluzio, Rulli Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect SSI Benefits for Disaster Victims",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Mike Rulli (OH06) introduced the Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act, legislation to ensure that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients do not lose or have their benefits reduced when they receive settlement payments after a tragedy. The February 3, 2023, derailment of a Norfolk Southern train carrying hazardous chemicals led to a controlled burn that sent toxic fumes into the air, leaving families terrified and communities deeply shaken. In the chaotic aftermath, many residents were forced to pay out of pocket for emergency housing, medical care, and other immediate needs. Months passed as millions of dollars were spent on cleanup efforts and tons of contaminated soil were removed before a monetary settlement was finally reached to begin making residents whole for the harm they suffered through no fault of their own. This past summer, constituents began reaching out about the unintended consequences facing Supplemental Security Income recipients who accepted those settlement payments. SSI serves older, blind, and disabled individuals living on fixed incomes with very limited resources, and for some, receiving settlement funds triggered a reduction or complete loss of their benefits. No disaster victim should be forced to choose between seeking justice and keeping their only source of income. The Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act addresses this injustice by taking actions such as exempting settlement funds from being counted as income or resources for SSI eligibility “After a disaster or health emergency, people sometimes receive settlement payments—that's what happened to a lot of folks who live close to the Norfolk Southern train derailment site in East Palestine,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17). “People dealing with the fallout of a disaster like this should not see their Social Security earned benefits lowered because they unexpectedly got money in a settlement. I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act with my Ohio colleague Congressman Rulli to fix this.” “Whether the settlement comes from a train derailment, a personal injury, or another disaster, our most vulnerable citizens should not be forced to choose between necessary compensation and their fixed income,” said Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-06). “No one should see their SSI benefits reduced, clawed back, or eliminated simply because they accepted funds intended to help them recover.” The Protecting Supplemental Security Income for Disaster Victims Act ensures that settlement payments are exempt from being counted as income or resources when determining SSI eligibility and benefit amounts. The bill is aligned with IRS guidance on the treatment of settlement funds for tax purposes and covers both the East Palestine settlement and any future settlements received for personal injury, physical sickness, or damage or depreciation of property. This legislation will help safeguard stability and dignity for SSI recipients during the aftermath of disasters and emergencies. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4859,Rep. Houlahan Introduces Legislation to Protect American Biotech Innovation from Communist China,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) introduced legislation to protect American proprietary research from Communist China. The Biological IP Protection Act will ensure that cutting edge American intellectual property is not given to our foreign adversaries. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR), Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate. Rep. Houlahan said, “As Co-Chair of the bipartisan BIOTech Caucus and a former entrepreneur, I know how valuable intellectual property is and why it must be protected. Many companies, including in Southeastern Pennsylvania’s vibrant life sciences community, either don’t realize or don’t fully understand the risks posed by sending synthetic DNA and RNA sequences to Chinese labs, even though we can safely do this work at home. Safeguarding this information through strong IP protections is essential to maintaining American’s leadership and competitiveness in biotechnology. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Davidson on the Biological Intellectual Property Protection Act, which will keep America’s cutting-edge biotechnology in the hands of U.S. researchers, patients, and businesses – not with foreign adversaries that may seek to do us harm.” “America’s biotechnology industry drives innovation, fuels economic growth, and underpins our national security. Yet foreign adversaries that violate trade rules and steal U.S. intellectual property increasingly seek dominance over critical biotech supply chains. We lose billions in IP every year because we haven’t taken the steps necessary to de-risk this sector. That’s why I’m proud to join Rep. Houlahan and Senators Cotton and Hassan in introducing the Biotechnology Intellectual Property Protection Act of 2025,” said Rep. Davidson. “It’s essential that we protect cutting edge American proprietary research from our chief foreign adversaries. Our bill will ensure that Communist China doesn’t have access to the intellectual property that drives American biotech innovation,” said Senator Cotton.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-sen-warren-lawmakers-push-fcc-doj-to-potentially-block-nexstar-acquisition-of-tegna-creating-media-giant-reaching-80-of-us-tv-households,"Rep. Summer Lee, Sen. Warren, Lawmakers Push FCC, DOJ to Potentially Block Nexstar Acquisition of Tegna, Creating Media Giant Reaching 80% of US TV Households",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Text of Letter (PDF) WASHINGTON, DC – December 16, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12), along with Representatives Doris Matsui (CA-07), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, and Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) wrote to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr and Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Department of Justice (DOJ), urging them to closely scrutinize Nexstar Media Group, Inc.’s (“Nexstar”) proposed acquisition of Tegna Inc. (“Tegna”) and to block this deal if they determine that it violates federal telecommunications or antitrust laws. The letter comes amid heightened attention to concerns about media consolidation, with lawmakers already sounding the alarm about large-scale media mergers, including the potential sale of Warner Bros. to Netflix or Paramount Skydance. “Regulatory approval of the conglomerate would likely raise prices for consumers, accelerate job losses, and weaken the independence and news coverage of local TV stations,” wrote the lawmakers. In August, Nexstar announced its intention to purchase competitor Tegna in a $6.2 billion deal. Nexstar is the largest owner of local broadcast television stations in the United States, controlling 201 stations and serving more than a third of local TV households nationally. Tegna owns 64 TV stations in 51 markets. A merger between Nexstar and Tegna would create a media giant reaching 80% of U.S. TV households. Currently, federal communications law prohibits an entity from owning any number of TV stations that reach more than 39% of all U.S. TV households. If this deal is allowed, the new merged company would surpass that threshold. “The company’s proposed acquisition of Tegna is presumptively illegal because it would allow Nexstar to exceed national caps on station ownership, creating a media giant that would far outstrip its competitors,” wrote the lawmakers. ”The FCC should abandon its attempt to circumvent Congress to change broadcast ownership rules, and should refrain from issuing a waiver to give Nexstar and Tegna permission to disregard the cap.” As a TV market industry expert explains, “ownership rules were designed to ensure local voices and limit concentration. Broadcasters were expected to serve their communities because the airwaves are publicly owned.” Already, the circumstances around regulatory approvals, potentially including this deal, have been politicized. One month after Nexstar announced its intention to acquire Tegna, FCC Chairman Carr said, with regard to Jimmy Kimmel Live!, that media companies “can find ways to take action on Kimmel, or there is going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.” He added, “[w]e can do this the easy way or the hard way.” Hours later, Nexstar preempted the distribution of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and only returned the show to the airwaves after public pressure. For this reason, the lawmakers are pushing for a government process that clearly and transparently enforces laws that protect consumers, free from political influence or backroom deals. Notably, the public is feeling the stakes of media mergers more acutely as this is happening at the same time as the Warner Bros. bidding war, which has garnered a tremendous amount of attention. “The industry’s attempt to boost profits for executives through consolidation ultimately comes at the expense of viewers across the country and independent, local TV journalism,” concluded the lawmakers. “We urge the FCC to carefully review the deal, including by holding public hearings, and block it if Nexstar cannot affirmatively prove that the deal will benefit the public, not just its shareholders.” Full text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-leads-effort-restore-funding-and-advance-path-forward,ICYMI: Boyle Leads Effort to Restore Funding and Advance Path Forward for Chinatown Stitch Project,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"PHILADELPHIA, PA — Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) today brought together local officials, community leaders, and advocates at the Crane Center to outline a path forward for the Chinatown Stitch project following the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans’ decision to rescind roughly $150 million in previously awarded federal funding. Boyle, who spent years lobbying senior officials in the Biden administration to secure the funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, reaffirmed his commitment to the project and announced that he is serving as a lead cosponsor of the Restoring Essential Public Access and Improving Resilient Infrastructure (REPAIR) Act, legislation that would restore billions in funding nationwide for projects like the Chinatown Stitch. “I worked damn hard to get that $160 million grant, and I'm still upset that this president took this money from Philadelphia and took this money from those who live in and around this community,” said Congressman Boyle. “But the good news is, and why we're standing here today is to say, this isn't the end of the project. We're not giving up, we're not quitting. I feel confident we have a very good plan B, and we're going to keep working at it until we are here celebrating in a few years.” The Chinatown Stitch project would cap the Vine Street Expressway (I-676), reconnecting both sides of Chinatown with new green space, safer streets, and a direct link to the Rail Park. The project was awarded nearly $160 million through the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to repair damage caused by past transportation decisions that divided neighborhoods and harmed local economies. “Thank you, Congressman. You have been a huge supporter of Chinatown and this Chinatown Stitch project,” said John Chin, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation. “Imagine what this community could be if we can get the Chinatown Stitch built and the cap to cover it. It reconnects this community, but also expands the opportunity for small businesses to grow economically and create new jobs for this community and the city of Philadelphia.” Earlier this year, that funding was rescinded as part of a partisan Republican reconciliation bill that zeroed out unobligated funds from the program to help finance tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy — costing Philadelphia a once-in-a-generation opportunity to heal a highway that has cut Chinatown in half for decades. Before the press conference, Boyle convened an off-the-record meeting with city and state officials and community leaders to assess the project’s current status and identify next steps. The discussion focused on continuing progress using remaining obligated funds, exploring additional funding sources, and coordinating efforts to restore the lost federal investment. Participants at today’s event included John Chin, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation; State Senator Nikil Saval; Councilmember Mark Squilla; and additional state, local, and community leaders. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases/evans-welcomes-house-passage-hospital-home-bill-urges-action-health-care-tax,"Evans Welcomes House Passage of ‘Hospital at Home’ Bill, Urges Action on Health-Care Tax Credits ahead of Dec. 31 Cost Spike",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Dwight Evans,E000296,evans.house.gov,evans,https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON (Dec. 15, 2025) – Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) welcomed the House of Representatives’ recent passage of a “Hospital at Home” bill he’s co-leading, and said the same type of bipartisan cooperation is needed to prevent a cost spike on Dec. 31 for 24 million Americans’ health insurance. “I’m pleased that we were able to get a bill to renew the vital ‘Hospital at Home’ program for five years through the deeply divided House. It’s a common-sense bill that helps thousands of patients to receive better care from more than 200 hospitals around the country, including some patients in the Philadelphia area – and it saves money,” Evans said. In November 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) established a waiver to provide hospitals with increased flexibility to care for certain patients from the comfort and convenience of their homes, rather than in a hospital setting. According to the American Hospital Association, this model has been proven to “reduce costs, improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience.” A recent CMS report shows that allowing patients to be treated in a more familiar environment and routine accelerates recovery time, lowers the mortality rate and reduces the risk of hospital-acquired infections and falls. Evans said, “Now we need the Republican majorities in the House and Senate to bring that same spirit of cooperation to another health-care issue. We need them to share the sense of urgency that Democrats in Congress already have about preventing a massive cost spike about two weeks from now for health coverage that 24 million Americans count on. “Tax credits that make health insurance more affordable for those 24 million Americans expire at the end of the year. If Republicans let those tax credits lapse, an estimated 150,000 Pennsylvanians will have to drop their coverage, and about 350,000 other Pennsylvanians will be making tough choices to pay for a massive increase in their premiums. But this crisis is preventable! “We just need four House Republicans to join us in signing a discharge petition to force a House vote on extending these tax credits for working-class Americans. This is the same procedure we successfully used a few weeks ago to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Similarly, health care can’t wait!” Evans also released a short video about this urgent issue. “Working Americans need congressional Republicans to act on these health-care tax credits with the same speed they displayed earlier this year, when Republicans rushed a tax cut for the richest into law,” Evans said. Evans also addressed two key reasons why some Republicans in Congress have opposed renewing the tax credits: “These tax credits aren’t about Covid – President Biden proposed them in 2019, several months before the Covid crisis began in the U.S., and more than a year before he took office in January 2021. “And claims of fraud appear to be overblown, especially in states that run their own health-insurance exchanges like Pennsylvania does with Pennie.com. The Trump administration does need to explain why it reinstated 850 agents and brokers who had been suspended from Affordable Care Act enrollment for suspected fraudulent or abusive conduct related to unauthorized enrollments or plan switches. “The bottom line is: Congress needs to renew these health-care tax credits - NOW!” Evans said. Evans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans’ office’s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight years in Congress.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4906,NDAA restores women’s policy teams canceled in Pentagon DEI purge,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Originally published on MilitaryTimes.com Written by Hope Hodge Seck Days after Pete Hegseth was installed as the Pentagon’s top civilian, some all-volunteer teams of service women working to address obstacles and improve policy became casualties of his war on diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI. But a provision tucked into the $900 billion defense policy bill would bring them back. The National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal 2026, which passed the House Dec. 11, contains a provision that restores service-level women’s initiative teams. The bill would require the service secretaries to establish one of these teams for each of the five services under the Defense Department within a year after the bill becomes law. These teams, composed of women in uniform representing “a variety of ranks, backgrounds and occupational specialties,” are to be tasked with identifying and addressing issues that hinder women’s service; supporting recruiting and retention; recommending policy changes that support the needs of women in service; and fostering a sense of community, according to language in the bill. The legislation requires the secretary of defense to submit an annual report for the next five years on the activities and progress of the women’s initiative teams, including a summary of their activities, assessment of the policy impact they’ve had and any recommendations for legislative or policy changes to further support their success. The language restoring the women’s initiative teams originated with Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, a Pennsylvania Democrat who served as an Air Force officer on active duty and in the Reserves from 1989-2004. Despite a contentious political climate and suspicion around policy specific to women in the military, Houlahan said she hoped that “common sense was the thing that won the day” in allowing the women’s initiative teams provision to make it into the final version of the NDAA. “More importantly, it’s all about readiness for the military in general,” she told Military Times in an interview. “As we are 51% of the population and about 20% of the folks who serve in uniform, it’s important that that demographic, for lack of a better word, be supported.” Houlahan said she believed that the teams were “just a convenient target from a new administration.” “When cooler and calmer, more rational heads got in the game, and Congress did its job, we were able to bring it back to life,” she said. The legislation would also make the women’s initiative teams consistent across the services. The Air Force‘s team had been serving for nearly two decades when it was ordered to cease operations following President Donald Trump’s inaugural raft of executive orders in January. The Navy’s team had been in service for less than a year and was not formally canceled by the service. In the Marine Corps, female service members launched an unofficial WIT in 2020 to advocate for changes like better parental leave and adjustments to outdated body composition standards, always stressing they did not speak on behalf of the Corps or the Defense Department. This legislation would codify that team and put its membership and activities under the purview of the secretary of the Navy. In the Air Force, WIT members have successfully advocated for uniform changes, including development of a two-piece flight suit and a system that allows women to relieve themselves more easily in the cockpit. The team also reduced restrictions that prevented shorter airmen of both genders from serving as pilots. Other issues the WIT worked on, such as child care availability and parental leave, are relevant to the total force. “What I hope is that this administration really understands [that] this is ops and readiness for service women to do our jobs,” former WIT member Alea Nadeem told this reporter in January. “We’re asking for your help to make us more lethal and more ready, and give us the equipment and resources that we need to do that.” It’s not clear to what extent a congressional mandate will force action by the Pentagon. Hegseth in April announced he had “ended” the Defense Department’s Women, Peace, and Security program, despite its creation by Congress. The program continues today, but at the minimum staffing and activity level required by law. Houlahan said accountability was a key consideration in crafting the language of the WIT provision. “In this particular situation, we see the legal language of ‘shall,’ which is statutorily pretty powerful; legislatively, very powerful,” she said. “And you also see in this NDAA some guardrails being placed on the administration and on the secretary of defense,” she added. “I am really hopeful that the armed services committees on both sides of the Capitol are awakened, and I’m very hopeful that Congress itself is realizing that we really need to put our foot down in terms of our Article One responsibilities and obligations, and hold these guys to account in the laws that we pass.”",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-budd-introduce-legislation-to-create-first-national-network-of-ai-enabled-automated-labs/,"Fetterman, Budd Introduce Legislation to Create First National Network of AI-Enabled, Automated Labs",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,PA,John Fetterman,F000479,www.fetterman.senate.gov,fetterman,https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act to create a national network of six remotely accessible programmable cloud laboratories (PCLs) for academic research, led by the National Science Foundation (NSF). By knitting together existing laboratory data processing power, this bill would help researchers use their time and financial resources more effectively through automation and integration of large data sets. In 2024, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA launched a major initiative to establish a programmable, automated laboratory environment on a university campus. This effort positions CMU as a pioneer in advancing remote, software-driven experimentation and is already generating encouraging early results in areas such as chemical and materials research. The legislation builds on this emerging model and supports the development of similar capabilities at a national scale. “Pennsylvania is home to thousands of academic and industry researchers that are expanding the boundaries of human knowledge and developing the products of the future,” said Senator Fetterman. “We can help cut barriers researchers face and supercharge America’s innovation engine with a national network of PCLs. This has never been built before, and I’m proud to partner with Senator Budd to make this a reality.” “Integrating our nation’s world class laboratories will increase the rate of breakthroughs, streamline and better automate the research process, and reduce the barriers and costs that throttle experimentation. North Carolina is at the cutting edge of innovation, and I am glad to work with Senator Fetterman to help our great institutions push the boundaries of discovery even further,” said Senator Budd. The high cost of building and maintaining laboratory infrastructure creates barriers for smaller, less endowed academic institutions and small businesses to conduct cutting-edge scientific research or develop innovative products. A national PCL network would allow fee-paying users to remotely access laboratory space to conduct experiments, instead of building and operating their own lab equipment or traveling to another institution to conduct experiments in-person. This legislation would codify existing NSF proposals to create a network of up to six PCL nodes through competitive selection process open to academic, private sector, non-profit research institutions, or partnerships between any of the prior three types of institutions. Applicants for PCL node designation would be evaluated on: The level of existing laboratory infrastructure with automated capabilities and data integration; Capacity to support cloud-enabled workflows for multiple users; Ability to sustain long-term operations without continuous federal funding; Ability to collaborate with partners in academia, industry, or federal research entities; Protocols for research security, cybersecurity, and responsible access; Demonstration of user interest and research needs. Following the designation of the nodes, standards for interoperability, data sharing, cybersecurity and technical requirements would be developed by NIST, NSF, and selected PCL node participants. Reports to Congress on non-designated laboratories would also be required to map out developing PCL research infrastructure, assess the capabilities of non-designated laboratories, and identify opportunities for collaboration with the selected nodes. The bill is supported by Carnegie Mellon, SeedAI, and the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. “The bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators John Fetterman and Ted Budd meets the urgency of the moment – accelerating scientific innovation, sparking entrepreneurship and fueling economic growth in nearly every sector. It is vital to realizing the full potential of American progress for generations to come,” said Farnam Jahanian, President of Carnegie Mellon University. “The National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network Act is a green light for the future of American science. Investing in AI-enabled automation and cloud-connected laboratories will accelerate discovery timelines, bring our research infrastructure into the modern era, and ensure that federal science investments translate into tangible benefits for the American people,” said Joshua New, Director of Policy at SeedAI and organizer of the Accelerate Science Now coalition. “With the introduction of this bill, Senator Fetterman is demonstrating a true commitment to the future of innovation in Pennsylvania and American competitiveness,” said Stefani Pashman, CEO of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development. “By advancing automated science and establishing the National Programmable Cloud Laboratories Network, this legislation ensures Pennsylvania is positioned as a leader in next-generation industries that are core to our region’s growth: robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing. These efforts will not only drive economic growth in our region but will also make everyday life better by leveraging automation to create safer, more reliable and affordable products while strengthening our supply chains and energy security.” A summary of the bill text can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-announces-230000-federal-grant-improve-health-safety,"Congressman Deluzio Announces $230,000 Federal Grant to Improve Health & Safety Services for Older Veterans in Western PA",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman and Navy veteran Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that the Veterans Health Foundation is receiving $231,589 in federal grant funding to support the development of a new partnership model for Western Pennsylvania Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers. Western PA is home to a large population of older veterans, and advocates for older veterans are concerned that when threats to their health and safety are reported to a local AAA, weak coordination and collaboration mechanisms with the local VA Medical Center can result in missed opportunities for care. The grant will help address those concerns and also support work with VA Medical Centers in Butler and Pittsburgh to pilot an innovative new program for the VA to better support patients experiencing elder mistreatment. The program is being led by VA Pittsburgh researcher Lena Makaroun, MD. “Every veteran who served wrote this country a blank check, and in return we have a sacred obligation to get them the best care possible,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’m glad we're finding new ways to better coordinate to improve health and safety for older veterans in our region. My fellow veterans defended the freedoms we enjoy today and earned this care.” “This grant enables the Veterans Health Foundation, in partnership with VA Pittsburgh and Butler, to lead the development of a first-of-its-kind elder mistreatment intervention for older Veterans,” said Alanna Caffas, CEO of the Veterans Health Foundation. “Through the THRIVE program, we’re building a national model to improve care, safety, and quality of life for nearly 5 million older Veterans—starting right here in Pennsylvania. With congressional support, this project has the potential to transform how VA Medical Centers and local agencies protect and empower aging Veterans across the country.” The funding was provided through the Administration for Community Living and the Administration on Aging, sub-agencies of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as part of their Elder Justice Innovation Grant program. Congressman Deluzio—a U.S. Navy veteran who deployed to Iraq and at sea, and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy—is a leading voice in support of his fellow veterans. In Congress, he is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, a founding member of the Democratic Veterans Caucus, and has introduced legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to WWII Nurses, among many pro-veteran initiatives. The Trump Administration’s efforts to freeze funding and pause federal grants has created significant uncertainty for grantees, varying by agency and program. As of now, the courts are involved in determining whether many of these funding freezes will continue permanently or go on pause. Congressman Deluzio's office will continue to monitor these developments and fight to make sure federal funding keeps flowing to projects that make life better for Western Pennsylvanians. Recipients of federal grants with issues accessing lawfully appropriated funds, should reach out to Congressman Deluzio's office at PA17Grants@mail.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-jayapal-norcross-and-omar-in-introducing-landmark-bill-to-protect-and-empower-app-based-workers,"Rep. Summer Lee Joins Jayapal, Norcross, and Omar in Introducing Landmark Bill to Protect and Empower App-Based Workers",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – DECEMBER 12, 2025 — Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) in introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act, groundbreaking legislation to bring transparency, fairness, and accountability to digital labor platforms such as Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Amazon Flex. The bill establishes critical guardrails to ensure that automated decision-making systems do not result in discrimination, wage theft, or price-gouging — and that the workers who keep these companies running have the information and protections they deserve. “App-based workers in Western Pennsylvania and across this country power our economy, yet far too many are left without basic transparency, stability, or fair pay,” said Congresswoman Summer Lee. “These companies use hidden algorithms and unpredictable pay structures that make it nearly impossible for workers to support their families. The Empowering App-Based Workers Act brings long-overdue accountability by requiring companies to be transparent about how they determine pay and assignments. Workers deserve protection from unfair and exploitative practices, and they deserve to receive their fair share of the value they create.” Other lead sponsors emphasized the urgent need for reform. “App-based workers work long hours, often with no consistency or predictability of how much they will make,” said Rep. Jayapal. “They are at the whim of algorithms that make automated decisions about who gets to work, and where, and when. Workers and consumers deserve a better system, where workers are protected, employment laws are followed, and where consumers have a transparent price.” “The Empowering App-Based Workers Act is a long-overdue step toward fairness and transparency for the millions of rideshare drivers and delivery app workers who keep our economy running,” said Rep. Norcross. “By guaranteeing transparent payment information and higher wages, these workers will finally receive a fair day’s pay for a hard day’s work. App-based workers deserve a good-paying job where they are treated with dignity, compensated fairly, and protected from exploitation.” “Gig workers like Uber and Lyft drivers in my home state of Minnesota deserve a fair share of the wealth they create. App-based corporations have hidden behind AI algorithms and predatory take rates while drivers’ pay shrinks and executive profits soar,” said Rep. Omar. “The Empowering App-Based Workers Act will pull back the curtain on how these companies use data, set wages, and make decisions that shape people’s livelihoods. Gig workers should be part of a transparent system that values their labor.” App-based workers face increasingly exploitative conditions. In 2024, both Uber and Lyft regularly paid drivers less than minimum wage — even while raising prices for consumers. Corporate take rates frequently hover around 40 percent and can reach as high as 70 percent on individual rides. The Empowering App-Based Workers Act will: Require weekly pay statements and itemized receipts so workers know exactly how their earnings are calculated; Require transparency on electronic monitoring and automated decision-making, including how algorithms determine job assignments; Guarantee ride-hail drivers receive at least 75% of the total amount paid by the consumer; Prohibit pay discrimination by ensuring equal pay for equal or comparable work. In addition to Reps. Jayapal, Norcross, Omar, and Lee, the legislation is sponsored by Reps. Dan Goldman (NY-10), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mark Takano (CA-39), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/congresswoman-dean-and-senator-gillibrand-reintroduce-bill-to-empower-victims-of-significant-pfas-exposure-to-sue-manufacturers,Congresswoman Dean and Senator Gillibrand Reintroduce Bill to Empower Victims of Significant PFAS Exposure to Sue Manufacturers,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) alongside Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Congressman Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), reintroduced the PFAS Accountability Act to create a federal cause of action and allow courts to award medical monitoring for victims of PFAS exposure. The PFAS Accountability Act would allow courts to award medical monitoring for PFAS contamination victims to prevent premature morbidity, disability, or mortality. The legislation would also ensure victims of significant PFAS exposure can bring civil claims against manufacturers of PFAS and incentivize funding for PFAS safety research. “Victims of PFAS exposure deserve to know how their health and well-being have been compromised — and deserve the ability to demand justice from PFAS manufacturers,” Rep. Dean said. “Clean water is a right, yet communities in my district have long-suffered from the consequences of PFAS. That is why our bill would create a legal pathway for accountability and also fund more research so we better understand the generations of harm caused by PFAS manufacturers” “For years, companies have knowingly manufactured toxic, carcinogenic chemicals that have devastated families and communities. Those companies must be held accountable for their actions,” Senator Gillibrand said. “Our PFAS Accountability Act would help ensure that those exposed to dangerous PFAS chemicals have legal recourse and are able to access the long-term medical monitoring they need. I’m determined to deliver real justice for the victims of PFAS pollution in New York and across the country.” “Toxic forever chemicals are hurting communities across America. We know PFAS are linked to serious health issues including increased risk of several kinds of cancer, weakened immune response, and developmental effects in children. This legislation will give people who have been hurt by PFAS the opportunity to get justice, as well as incentivize further research into PFAS and efforts to prevent its further spread,” Congresswoman Dingell said. This legislation has been endorsed by Waterkeeper Alliance, American Association for Justice, Buxmont Coalition for Safe Water, Environmental Working Group, Green Science Policy Institute, National PFAS Contamination Coalition, Southern Environmental Law Center, NRDC, and Union of Concerned Scientists. “PFAS exposure has been linked to a number of long-term health issues including cancer, reproductive harm, immune system harm, vaccine efficacy and more,"" Jessica Hernandez, Legislative Director for Environmental Working Group said. ""These PFAS-related chronic diseases develop over time, which is why medical monitoring is critical to securing justice for victims of PFAS pollution. EWG applauds Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Dean for reintroducing the PFAS Accountability Act, which will hold polluters accountable and help give victims the justice and support they deserve."" “Families across the country are bearing the heavy toll of PFAS pollution—enduring long-term health risks and rising medical costs that threaten the fabric of our communities,” Jean Zhuang, Senior Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center said. ""By reintroducing the PFAS Accountability Act, Senator Gillibrand and Congresswoman Dean are standing with impacted communities to ensure victims can seek medical monitoring and hold polluters financially accountable. This legislation will help ensure that polluters, not people, bear the responsibility for these toxic chemicals."" “Decades of production and use have led to widespread PFAS contamination,"" Arlene Blum, Executive Director of the Green Science Policy Institute said. ""These very persistent and often toxic chemicals are harming the health of people and ecosystems worldwide. This bill will hold manufacturers legally accountable and help stop future PFAS contamination at the source. Read the full text of the bill here. Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-congressman-deluzio-hres-939,Statement from Congressman Deluzio on H.Res. 939,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Impeachment is one of Congress' most solemn responsibilities, and I take it very seriously. “I join so many patriots who have deep concerns with the dangerous actions of the President and his Administration. Any impeachment process requires more thought and investigation than this sloppy and rushed resolution. “Constitutional scholar Congressman Jamie Raskin leads Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee, and today I joined him in voting not to table the motion to be able to send this resolution for full consideration in the Judiciary Committee.“",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4860,What Trump’s latest dramatic Venezuela move means,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Originally published on CNN.com Analysis by Stephen Collinson The Trump administration’s seizure of an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela is one of the most dramatic twists yet in a military pressure campaign against Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. The boarding of a foreign ship is an unusual step and expands a US operation already highlighted by strikes against more than 20 boats in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean that the administration claims carried drug traffickers. Early reports suggest the swoop by US Coast Guard personnel, with the backing of the Navy and law enforcement agencies, poses fewer legal and constitutional concerns than the campaign against the boats and Trump’s imminent threats of military action on Venezuelan soil. The vessel, the Skipper, was seized in international waters and was carrying Venezuelan crude, a senior US official said. A federal judge had previously issued a warrant for its seizure because of alleged links to Iran-backed terror groups. Still, Trump’s relish in announcing the take-over of the ship and Attorney General Pam Bondi’s release of a video showing US personnel rappelling onto its decks from a helicopter underscore the political significance of the moment. With his characteristic flair for the dramatic, Trump announced to the press that the US had boarded a “large tanker, very large, largest one ever seized, actually.” While the tanker might not have been directly related to the current showdown between Trump and Maduro, its interdiction will be seen in the context of a massive US naval build-up in the Caribbean, which is part of an apparent attempt to force Maduro out of power or to convince his subordinates to oust him. What’s at stake for Trump and Venezuela Millions of Venezuelans would welcome Maduro’s departure after grim years under an authoritarian regime that has impoverished the country, imposed repression and forced millions of people to flee poverty and persecution. So, the Washington controversy over Trump’s intentions in Venezuela is less about whether Maduro’s exit after ignoring his loss in a democratic election would be beneficial and more about whether the US president is acting legally. Critics fear Trump is preparing to embroil America in another prolonged foreign policy misadventure as he again seeks to flex unchecked executive power. Legal questions are most acute over the strikes against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean that have killed 87 people. The administration insists that it is justified in using legal military force against what it brands as narco-terrorists that threaten American national security. But Venezuela is not regarded as a major fentanyl trafficking route into the US as the administration insists. And rights groups warn that the boat attacks infringe on the due process of the victims and amount to state sanctioned murder by the administration. One of those strikes, on September 2, prompted Democrats and human rights groups to accuse the administration of a war crime, as it involved a follow-up strike that reportedly killed survivors of the initial US attack. Democrats are intensifying a campaign to force Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to turn over video of the attack to Congress. Trump had earlier said on camera he had no problems with such a step but later denied making the comment. News of the tanker seizure and deepening intrigue over the double-tap strike came as doubt still shrouded Trump’s aims in Venezuela. The symbolic weight of the massive US naval force off the country, which includes the most advanced US aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, means any resolution to the crisis that does not lead to Maduro’s ouster would be a rebuke to US power and Trump’s prestige. Trump has meanwhile repeatedly warned that strikes against what he says are drug trafficking sites on land could start soon. But in an interview with Politico this week, he declined to discuss military strategy and said opaquely that he wanted the Venezuelan people treated well and “to be respected.” CNN reported on Wednesday that the Trump administration was working on plans for what would happen in Venezuela in the event that Maduro fell or left. Critics of the Trump approach have drawn comparisons to the US failure to prepare for regime change in Iraq in 2003 after the US invasion. Some analysts fear that Venezuela could descend into violence and instability if the Maduro regime falls, and that it could prompt a refugee crisis. But the situation there bears little comparison to post-war Baghdad. In another development that could increase pressure on Maduro’s regime, Venezuelan Opposition leader María Corina Machado dramatically left hiding in the country and traveled to Oslo, where her daughter had earlier accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf. Maduro’s government had warned she would be considered a fugitive should she leave Venezuela. But her emergence in the outside world may also present the Trump administration with new opportunities to highlight her cause. Ship boarding ‘normal,’ former US intelligence official says The US seizure of the tanker Skipper took place on the basis of a search warrant related to past activity transporting sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran, Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X. She said FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the US Coast Guard were involved with support from the Department of Defense. The capture of the tanker is certain to be seen throughout the region as an implicit warning to other tanker captains of the risks in loading up in Venezuela and operating around its waters, as well as a blow to the shadow fleet of tankers that traffic sanctioned oil for nations like Iran. Venezuela has some of the world’s biggest reserves of crude oil, and its illicit sales are a key source of income for its regime. The first and second Trump administrations and the Biden administration maintained multiple layers of sanctions against the Maduro regime for its suppression of democracy, including against the state-owned oil and natural gas company PDVSA. The government in Caracas condemned the seizure, arguing that it laid bare the true motivation of Trump’s pressure campaign. “It is not migration. It is not drug trafficking. It is not democracy. It is not human rights. It has always been about our natural wealth, our oil, our energy, the resources that belong exclusively to the Venezuelan people,” a government statement said. But Beth Sanner, a former senior US intelligence official, told CNN’s Jake Tapper that the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tankers was “absolutely normal” as part of an attempt to prevent the regime transporting sanctioned oil. “In the past, everybody has wanted to pick up these kinds of tankers, but we haven’t had the assets in the region to do it,” Sanner said. Democrats on Capitol Hill are unwilling to take any of actions related to Venezuela at face value. Asked on CNN whether the US was now closer to a war with Venezuela, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, who sits on the House Armed Services Committee, said, “How could we possibly not be closer when we are rappelling men and women from our military out of helicopters and descending on civilian tankers flying the flag of another nation? It is definitely escalatory; there is no other way to put it.” She added that if Trump’s aim was regime change through military force, he was constitutionally required to get an authorization from Congress — although she believed that such a step was not in US interests. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer meanwhile told Tapper on “The Lead” that Trump’s rhetoric was so unclear that it was impossible to know what his true intentions are. “President Trump throws out so many different things, in so many different ways, you don’t know what the heck he is talking about,” Schumer said. “If Maduro would just flee on his own, everyone would like that.” But Schumer added: “You cannot say, ‘I endorse this, I endorse that’ when Trump is all over the lot.” Like so much in Trump’s second term, there is little public transparency about the president’s goals that often seem to depend on his personal whims. Trump prizes unpredictability. He’s thus made no attempt to explain to Americans why so many service personnel are on ships off the Venezuelan coast or what the expensive deployment is supposed to achieve. If the president were to successfully oust Maduro and transition Venezuela to democracy, he could claim a significant political win. He’d also cement his goal of exerting American power throughout the Western Hemisphere, an aspiration consistent with his recently unveiled National Security Strategy. This appears both an attempt to reshape Latin America in his own MAGA image and a more traditional US strategy to counter Chinese and Russian influence in the region. But history shows that even in extreme circumstances, dictatorial regimes constructed over decades are often more durable than outsiders believe. The Venezuelan government has been compared to a many layered criminal operation — with key members having huge financial stakes in perpetuating their own power. And while many outsiders hope that Trump’s pressure will lead to the rise of the country’s rightful democratic rulers, nothing is certain. But the seizing of the tanker cranked the pressure on Maduro up yet another notch. And it led Trump further down what is beginning to look like an inexorable path to a confrontation in which he is investing huge personal credibility.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-statement-house-passage-fy26-ndaa,Congressman Deluzio Statement on House Passage of the FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“I voted NO tonight because the D.C. swampy machine did the bidding of the defense industrial complex by stripping out important bipartisan provisions that I secured in the annual defense bill to protect public money from price gouging and to make sure defense corporations cannot block our troops from fixing their own gear and equipment. “They took out provisions—often that had support in both the House and the Senate from Republicans and Democrats alike—that challenged corporate power, returned collective bargaining rights to workers, and protected public money from getting ripped off by defense contractors. “We need a military that has what it needs to keep us safe and win any fight that comes our way. And we need a Pentagon and a Congress that better protect public money, do not union bust patriotic civil servants, and are not afraid to push back against the defense industrial complex.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-led-fight-congress-keep-navy-reserve-centers-open-he-won,Deluzio Led the Fight in Congress to Keep Navy Reserve Centers Open. He Won.,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – After learning that the U.S. Senate snuck a provision into the annual defense bill to close America’s Navy Reserve Centers (NRCs), Western Pennsylvania Congressman and Navy veteran Chris Deluzio (PA-17) successfully led the fight to remove the provision and keep Navy Reserve Centers open. This included the NRC in Moon Township, PA at the 911th Airlift Wing—in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District—and in Harrisburg and Avoca, PA. With these centers set to remain open, our nation's Navy Reserve will stay trained, supported, and ready to do our country’s bidding—anytime, anywhere. ""It's important that regions like ours have Navy Reserve Centers so that Sailors can keep their ties to the fleet if we need to mobilize them for active-duty service,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio. “I am proud that I won the fight to protect the Navy Reserve Centers in Western Pennsylvania and across the country—these are important facilities to support our Navy reservists who stand at the ready to mobilize for service.” NRCs perform administrative, training, and support to Navy Reserve Sailors, ensuring readiness for the country's Navy Reserve. Congressman Deluzio helped craft the House version of the National Defense Authorization Act—or NDAA—as a member of the House Armed Service Committee. The version that he voted for did not include the elimination of Navy Reserve Centers. However, the Senate-passed version of the NDAA added a provision to close the more than 100 Navy Reserve Centers across the country, including one in the district that Congressman Deluzio represents. Congressman Deluzio and his office worked for months to remove the provision from the final compromise text of the defense bill. Congressman Deluzio led a letter to the Armed Service Committee leadership signed by eighteen of his congressional colleagues, both Republicans and Democrats. The full text of the letter is available here and his efforts were covered by KDKA TV news in Pittsburgh. Ultimately, his efforts were successful. When the final defense bill text was released last weekend, the provision closing NRCs was removed. “Sound defense policy must be grounded in reality and evidence,” said Colonel Chuck Sargent, USAFR (Ret.), Chairman, Military Affairs Council of Western Pennsylvania (MACWPA). “Congressman Deluzio’s willingness to engage, listen, and act—supported by strong research and collaboration—helped preserve military readiness while maintaining vital connections between our communities and the armed forces.” Byron King, Capt, USN/ret, President of Pittsburgh Council of the U.S. Navy League provided the following statement celebrating Congressman Deluzio’s successful effort to keep Navy Reserve Centers open: “It is gratifying to learn that the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) no longer legislates the abrupt, nationwide closure of 107 Navy Reserve Centers. Certainly, we are pleased that Pittsburgh's own Navy Reserve facility will remain operational, located adjacent to the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport. “A pithy old nautical saying advises that ""time and tide wait for no one."" And with this in mind, and on behalf of the Pittsburgh Council of the U.S. Navy League, our members and friends of the Navy want to thank Rep. Chris Deluzio and his staff for their fast, responsive and decisive efforts. Promptly, efficiently and with great focus they coordinated a broad, national-scale and bipartisan coalition of U.S. House Members to eliminate this particular ‘shutdown’ provision from the 2026 NDAA, which is otherwise critical legislation for the defense of the country. “The U.S. Navy Reserve was established in 1775, a year before the founding of the country, and for 250 years Reserve personnel have played key roles in every American military effort, and not a few peacetime missions that involved disaster relief and other humanitarian efforts. The current Reserve system is administered through Navy facilities located in every state. Shutting down these centers would be immediately detrimental to training and administering Reservists, with high likelihood of decreased readiness and negative impact on mission capabilities across the broad spectrum of Navy missions. “The Pittsburgh Council of the Navy League extends its sincere thanks to Rep. Deluzio and his staff, and to numerous other friends of the Navy who helped generate widespread public interest and support in this matter.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4851,New Report from Senator Warren’s Office Reveals Trump Administration Siphoned At Least $2 Billion from Military Budget for Immigration Enforcement,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative John Garamendi (D-Calif.) released a new report detailing the Trump administration’s diversion of funds and resources from the Department of Defense (DoD) to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement, and its impact on readiness and morale. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), along with Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) and Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.) co-authored the report. Under a second Trump administration, the U.S. military has become heavily involved in immigration enforcement. Senator Warren’s new report, the first detailed review of the Pentagon’s spending on immigration, found that DoD has committed at least $2 billion to support immigration enforcement through mobilizing and deploying troops to American cities and the Southern border, deporting and transporting immigrants on military aircrafts, detaining individuals on U.S. military installations, and more. “It’s an insult to our service members that Pete Hegseth and Kristi Noem are using the defense budget as a slush fund for political stunts. Stripping military resources to promote a wasteful political agenda doesn’t make our military stronger or Americans safer,” said Senator Warren. “Congress needs to step in and hold the Trump Administration accountable for mishandling billions of taxpayer dollars.” “When President Trump recklessly diverts our military to support immigration enforcement, our armed forces pay the price. As this report shows, these disruptions come at a significant cost, in both dollars and readiness,” said Representative Garamendi. Despite an unprecedented $170 billion budget allocated to DHS, it’s unclear how much DoD has received in reimbursement for any of its spending on immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, the military is funding these efforts in support of DHS with money allocated for other DoD projects including updates to barracks, maintenance hangers, and military construction projects in the Pacific. Concerningly, the Pentagon has requested an additional $5 billion for further immigration support in its budget request for 2026. “Diverting the military from its existing missions and thrusting it into immigration enforcement does not make Americans safer. This multi-billion-dollar political stunt is an overt waste of taxpayer resources and undermines national security, military readiness, and resources for our servicemembers,” said the members. The members’ report found that, in 2025, the Pentagon has committed: At least $1.3 billion for the deployment of troops and resources to the border; At least $258 million to support Trump’s orders to deploy troops to Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, and Memphis, along with plans to reassign 600 Judge Advocates (JAGs) as immigration judges; At least $420.9 million for detaining immigrants at domestic military installations and overseas bases like Guantánamo and Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti; and At least $40.3 million for military flights to deport and transport noncitizen detainees. The report raised concerns that, in addition to the cost of the DoD immigration efforts, it has resulted in “servicemembers…being pulled from their homes, families, and civilian jobs for indefinite periods of time to support legally questionable political stunts,” wrote the members. The deployments also unnecessarily put our servicemembers in harm's way: in November, Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, was killed while her West Virginia National Guard unit was deployed to Washington, D.C, and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe was critically injured. The deployment of troops for immigration enforcement has also weakened the military’s ability to respond to emergencies. For example, the 101st Airborne Division — the U.S. Army’s only air assault division — deployed to the border instead of standing ready for national security missions. Additionally, leading into peak fire season, the California National Guard firefighting unit was “understaffed because roughly half its members [were] deployed to Los Angeles.” These deployments may also require units to miss key training exercises necessary to ensure combat readiness, as the Government Accountability Office found occurred during the first Trump administration. The diversion of DoD funds is having a devastating effect on the military’s ability to improve services for troops and their families. Among the projects impacted by the prioritization of border operations is a $1 billion renovation of military barracks. Secretary Hegseth also diverted funding from elementary schools at Fort Knox and a U.S. military installation in Germany, an ambulatory care center and dental clinic to service Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, a jet-training facility in Mississippi, and Marine barracks in Japan. During the first Trump administration, the DoD stopped deploying troops to the border after determining the deployments were hurting military readiness and morale. The border mission appeared to contribute to alcohol and drug abuse among service members, and may have even contributed to a number of tragic suicides among Texas National Guardsmen. The members raised concerns about similar issues arising again, particularly given the lack of clarity around how long deployments will last. The report also slammed the administration’s failure to adequately inform Congress and the public about the diversion of funds. “The Trump administration’s secrecy leaves many questions unanswered. The administration has failed to provide clarity on basic questions about DoD’s role in supporting DHS,” said the members. The coalition directed follow-up questions to Secretary Hegseth about the number of troops currently supporting immigration enforcement, how long military units will be supporting DHS, and whether DHS will reimburse the military. On Thursday, December 11, 2025, the Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a hearing on deployment of the National Guard across the United States. Cover Letter to the Pentagon (PDF) | Text of Report (PDF) ###",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4852,Houlahan Champions Key Reforms and Readiness Investments in the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Ranking Member of the Military Personnel Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee, successfully secured 40 priorities in the bipartisan, bicameral compromise of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The conference report released last week reflects months of negotiations and delivers major reforms to strengthen military readiness, protect servicemembers and their families, and safeguard America’s competitive edge at a time of rapid and unpredictable change within the Department of Defense. “This year’s NDAA, which includes a 3.8 percent pay increase for all servicemembers, strengthens military readiness and reaffirms our commitment to the people who serve,” said Houlahan. “I’m especially proud that we delivered landmark protections for military women by permanently codifying Women’s Initiative Teams across every service branch, an achievement that was not included in the Senate bill but one I fought to keep in the final package. These protections strengthen our force, our families, and our national security, and are vital under an Administration working to sideline women and erase their contributions. I’m grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for helping us get this across the finish line.”",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-statement-trumps-visit-pennsylvania,Boyle Statement on Trump’s Visit to Pennsylvania,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"PHILADELPHIA, PA – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, released the following statement ahead of Trump’s visit to Pennsylvania: “Donald Trump is returning to my state, where all throughout the campaign last year he promised to lower costs on ‘day one’. And now one year later? Prices are higher than ever thanks to his policies. In fact, Donald Trump now calls the cost-of-living crisis a ‘con’ — but the real con was his promise to lower prices. Donald Trump cares more about building ballrooms and giving tax breaks to billionaires than he does about struggling Pennsylvania families.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzios-bill-rename-sewickley-post-office-after-local-historian,Congressman Deluzio’s Bill to Rename Sewickley Post Office After Local Historian & Author Unanimously Passes U.S. House of Reps,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, Congressman Chris Deluzio’s (PA-17) bipartisan legislation to rename the post office in Sewickley, PA at 521 Thorn Street after Mary Elizabeth ""Bettie"" Cole passed the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously by a voice vote. It is a significant step forward in commemorating the beloved Western Pennsylvania community leader, local historian, and author. In 2000, Mrs. Cole published Their Story: The History of Blacks/African Americans in Sewickley & Edgeworth. This book documented a significant and often-overlooked part of the Sewickley Valley community, and was the culmination of 20 years of research, including more than 100 interviews with community members. “Post offices are more than just a place to send mail and packages—they are public institutions that should reflect the community’s proud past,” said Congressman Deluzio. “Sewickley has a rich history, and community pillars like Mrs. Bettie Cole have been important to telling that shared story. Her community service should be honored. That’s why I’m proud to lead the effort to memorialize Bettie’s contributions by renaming Sewickley’s post office after her, and I thank my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives for recognizing the importance of this acknowledgement.” Mrs. Mary Elizabeth ""Bettie"" Cole was born in Edgeworth, PA, on April 5, 1923. She moved to Sewickley in 1939, where she spent the rest of her life. She was a 1940 graduate of Sewickley High School. Shortly after graduation, she married and had two daughters who she raised and nurtured. In 1988, she retired from Point Park College (now Point Park University) as the associate director of office services and director of the mailing department. While employed at Point Park, Mrs. Cole earned her Associate of Arts degree in Journalism and Communications, and was inducted into Alpha Sigma Lambda (National Honor Society for part-time students) as one of the 13 charter members of Point Park’s Gamma Epsilon Chapter. She boasted that at the time, she was possibly (and proudly) the chapter’s eldest member and only grandmother. Mrs. Cole passed away in 2016 at the age of 92, leaving behind a family and community proud of her contributions. The legislation now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration. Congressman Deluzio will encourage his colleagues on the other side of the Capitol to pass this legislation and send it to the President’s desk for signature into law as soon as possible. A video of Congressman Deluzio’s floor speech is available here and a photo of the Sewickley Post Office is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-introduces-strengthening-trade-enforcement-and-evasion-limitations-act,Deluzio Introduces Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations Act,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-PA) and Mike Kelly (R-PA) introduced the Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations Act, or STEEL Act. This is legislation that will enhance trade enforcement and prevent dumping, an unfair trade practice by foreign nations that sell subsidized goods in the United States and devalue the prices of American steel and other domestic products. “Western Pennsylvanians know how decades of wimpy trade law enforcement have hurt American workers and industry,” said Congressman Deluzio. “We need stronger enforcement, and that means stopping trade cheats from ripping us off. I was glad to work with Congressman Mike Kelly on this bill to put some muscle back into our trade enforcement laws and help level the playing field for American jobs and industries.” ""For years, foreign steel producers have undercut American steel and tube producers by exporting their product at prices below the cost of production. These harmful -- and even illegal -- trade practices have hurt Pennsylvania steel producers, leading to job losses in communities across Pennsylvania and the United States,"" said Rep. Kelly. ""The Strengthening Trade Enforcement and Evasion Limitations (STEEL) Act puts American companies first, and it fully rejects the idea that foreign companies can participate in the U.S. market against U.S. companies without playing by the same rules."" The full bill text is availablehere. The STEEL Act is endorsed by many groups, including the American Iron and Steel Institute and the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI). For too long, bad actors have sought to evade U.S. trade laws through fraud, transshipment and other schemes. These actions have hurt American businesses and workers, including in the American steel industry. By allowing Customs and Border Protection to initiate investigations on its own initiative when it finds evidence of evasion of antidumping or countervailing duty orders, this bill will give CBP an additional tool to crack down on these illegal schemes,"" said Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO, American Iron and Steel Institute. ""AISI commends Representatives Mike Kelly and Chris Deluzio for their leadership in introducing this important legislation. AISI urges Congress to pass this and other trade enforcement legislation to ensure strict and vigorous enforcement of U.S. trade laws and to hold trade cheaters accountable."" “Steel pipe and tube producers across the country have long borne the brunt of unfairly traded imports that erode market share and put U.S. manufacturers and workers at risk. The Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) has been an essential tool for the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI) and its member companies in stopping bad actors from evading antidumping and countervailing duties intended to counter unfair trade practices. Unfortunately, gaps in the current statute have still allowed some importers to exploit loopholes and avoid lawfully imposed duties,"" said Roger B. Schagrin, Executive Director and General Counsel of the Committee on Pipe and Tube Imports (CPTI). ""CPTI commends Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) for their leadership in the introduction of this legislation to strengthen the Enforce and Protect Act. By enabling U.S. Customs and Border Protection to proactively investigate duty evasion and by curbing frivolous appeals, this legislation will strengthen enforcement and deliver meaningful relief to American manufacturers and workers across the country who rely on fair and effective trade laws. We look forward to working with Representatives Kelly and Deluzio to support this critical legislation and the jobs it protects."" “Thanks to the Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA), the OCTG Manufacturers Association (USOMA) has seen more than $400 million in unpaid antidumping and countervailing duties assessed —more than any other industry—through this vital enforcement tool,” said Guillermo Moreno, President of Tenaris US and Chairman of USOMA. “Still, more must be done to stop bad actors from evading duly imposed AD/CVD orders. Our members applaud the leadership of Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) for introducing legislation that will strengthen CBP’s ability to pursue duty evaders and curb frivolous litigation that wastes government and industry resources. We look forward to working with congressional leaders to enact these critical reforms and ensure that American manufacturers are fully protected from loopholes and delay tactics.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4849,"Democratic Women’s Caucus, Democratic Senators, & House Democrats Blast Army for Sexual Misconduct Failures; Demand Accountability",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC – Monday, December 8, Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), DWC Servicewomen, Women Veterans and Military Task Force Chair Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), DWC Progressive Caucus Liaison Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and DWC members Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), and Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) led 58 members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, House Democrats, and Democratic Senators in a letter to the Department of Defense Inspector General demanding accountability for the Army’s failure to stop widespread sexual misconduct. Recently, over 80 women joined a lawsuit alleging that Dr. Major Blaine McGraw made sexual advances, directed lewd comments towards them, and secretly recorded patients during exams while working at Ford Hood and Tripler Army Medical Center. Dr. McGraw was not suspended from his position until this October. In their letter, the Members and Senators expressed their outrage over Army leadership’s inaction despite numerous complaints from servicewomen and military wives that Dr. McGraw had sexually exploited women in his care for years. They also explained some of the unconscionable abuses women experienced, including details from the story of Jane Doe. In their letter, the Members and Senators shared how the Army ignored Jane Doe’s attempts to report her abuse: “After reportedly being assaulted during a patient visit with Dr. McGraw, Jane Doe said she begged a desk attendant to make a report. Instead, she was told to ‘call or send an email.’ Jane Doe alleges she called the hospital seven different times, but she was dismissed and hung up on each time. The purported lack of response and urgency to respond to these complaints would clearly violate reporting policy and the Army’s Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program protocols.” The Members and Senators also expressed deep concern in their letter that this abuse is part of a recurring pattern of the Army failing to intervene in cases of sexual misconduct: “In the lawsuit, female servicemembers and patients noted that a recurring issue was the lack of adequate response from Army leadership. Reportedly, when victims and their loved ones tried to make complaints with Army leadership, they were ‘refused meetings at every level.’ If true, these women deserve better. The alleged dismissive response from the Army demonstrates an immense failure at every level to properly support survivors.” The Members and Senators concluded the letter by demanding a full investigation, explanations on how complaints were handled, and stronger protections to ensure no woman faces this abuse again: “The allegations against Dr. McGraw are extremely serious, and the Army’s criminal investigation of this matter must continue unabated. That said, the separate concerns raised by survivors about members of the Army at many levels not timely acting on their complaints must be confronted immediately. Additionally, we request that DoD IG investigate to determine whether personnel within the Army properly followed procedures to timely report allegations of sexual misconduct to law enforcement and whether other SAPR procedures and existing protections were followed or not.” Letter Lead Members and Senators expressed their outrage at the Army’s blatant failure: “What happened at Fort Hood and Tripler Army Medical Center is a profound betrayal of the women who trust the military with their care. For years, Dr. Blaine McGraw preyed on patients while leadership ignored warnings and allowed the abuse to continue. Survivors also begged for help and were met with silence, skepticism, or dismissal. That is not just a moral failure but a procedural one. No woman serving our country should ever fear being violated by those responsible for her safety. Our letter demands accountability and the reforms needed to make sure this never happens again,” said DWC Servicewomen, Women Veterans and Military Task Force Chair Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06). “Reports of the Army’s failure to respond to sexual misconduct allegations and the many pleas raised by military women are appalling. The allegations in this case point to a deeply troubling breakdown in accountability and oversight. Sexual misconduct must never be tolerated, regardless of rank or position. Military servicewomen are essential to our armed forces, and they deserve to be heard, protected, and taken seriously. I am proud to co-lead this letter to demand answers, prevent future misconduct, and bring accountability and transparency for survivors who have been ignored for far too long,” said DWC member Sylvia Garcia (TX-39). “No woman should feel unsafe receiving medical care, especially during sensitive and private health services. Yet far too many survivors have come forward with their experiences of exploitation and alleged abuse by a doctor who reportedly violated not just the basic principles of medical care and human decency, but also the expected conduct of a U.S. Army officer and physician,” said Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI). “The Department of Defense and U.S. Army must take accountability for its failure to rapidly respond to servicemembers and patient complaints. While nothing can reverse the harm reported by patients, a comprehensive investigation into this alleged misconduct, resulting in stronger protections for patients, is necessary to ensure that no one experiences abuse by our military health system again.” “The rise in physician sexual misconduct across the country has now permeated the U.S. military, leaving women servicemembers and the wives of servicemembers vulnerable,” said DWC member Lori Trahan (MA-03). “The allegations against Dr. McGraw are horrific, and the Army’s delayed response is unacceptable. These women deserve to know that when they report abuse, they will be protected, believed, and taken seriously. We’re demanding answers because accountability cannot wait and the safety of those who serve our nation and their families cannot be compromised.” “Servicemembers and their families make extraordinary sacrifices to keep our country safe. Yet the U.S. Army failed to protect them when they were at their most vulnerable,” said DWC Progressive Caucus Liaison Jill Tokuda (HI-02). “I am disgusted by the allegations against Dr. McGraw and sickened that the Army’s delayed response enabled further harm to these women, who will now carry lasting trauma and emotional scars. The repeated dismissal of complaints is an appalling breach of duty, which is why we are demanding accountability, meaningful reform, and assurance that this will never happen again.” Read the full letter here. In addition to letter leads Mazie Hirono, Chrissy Houlahan, Jill Tokuda, Nanette Barragán, Lori Trahan, Veronica Escobar, and Sylvia Garcia, the letter was signed by Angela D. Alsobrooks,, Joyce Beatty, Julia Brownley, Nikki Budzinski, André Carson, Judy Chu, Maxine Dexter, Debbie Dingell, Sarah Elfreth, Lizzie Fletcher, Valerie Foushee, Lois Frankel, Laura Friedman, Robert Garcia, Kirsten Gillibrand, Adelita Grijalva, Val Hoyle, Jonathan Jackson, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Julie Johnson, Timothy Kennedy, Teresa Leger Fernandez, Lucy McBath, Sarah McBride, Betty McCollum, James McGovern, LaMonica McIver, Gwen Moore, Kelly Morrison, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi, Nellie Pou, Delia Ramirez, Emily Randall, Deborah Ross, Andrea Salinas, Janice Schakowsky, Jeanne Shaheen, Lateefah Simon, Melanie Stansbury, Rashida Tlaib, Norma Torres, Chris Van Hollen, Elizabeth Warren, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Nikema Williams, Frederica Wilson, and Ron Wyden.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/congresswoman-dean-demands-answers-from-secretary-rubio-on-abrupt-de-authorization-of-local-passport-acceptance-facilities,Congresswoman Dean Demands Answers from Secretary Rubio on Abrupt De-Authorization of Local Passport Acceptance Facilities,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding clarity on why local passport acceptance facilities — including Boyertown, Pottstown, and Jenkintown libraries — were deauthorized from accepting passport applications. In Fiscal Year 2025, the State Department received a record more than 23.3 million passport applications. Passport acceptance facilities alleviate the strain on the State Department to process new and renewed passports — and offer local sites for Americans seeking to travel for family, work, or recreation. Yet across the country, the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ Office of Acceptance Facility Oversight sent notices to public libraries to clarify whether the institution is “a private, charitable, non-profit, or other type of non-governmental organization” or is “government owned and operated” by a local jurisdiction. Each institution had just 14 days from the receipt of the attestation to complete it. Following months of silence from the State Department, some of these institutions that are not government owned and operated were recently sent deactivation notices, ordering them to cease passport operations immediately. “Our public libraries are a beacon — offering a breadth of resources right in our communities, including the ability to accept passport applications,” Rep. Dean said. “From Boyertown to Pottstown to Jenkintown, our district depends on the accessibility of passport acceptance facilities and our libraries rely on this program for crucial revenue. At at time when more Americans than ever are seeking passports, it is incomprehensible for the State Department to take away such a sensible, time-saving function.” The fees libraries receive for executing applications make up substantial portions of their operating budgets, in some cases as high as 12%. Changing their authorization status mid-year, without providing opportunities for institutions to wind down operations, will force many libraries to slash employee salaries or lay off staff. Read the full letter here. Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4845,Representatives Houlahan and Kiggans Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Communication and Readiness for our Servicemembers and their Families in Japan,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA), along with original co-sponsors Representatives Steven Horsford (D-NV), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Rob Wittman (R-VA), introduced the Improving Notification for Operational Readiness and Families (INFORM) Act, a bipartisan bill directing the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish a pilot program to deliver timely, mission-critical information directly to servicemembers and military families stationed at Marine Corps Installations Pacific in Okinawa, Japan. Under the bill, DoD will automatically enroll eligible servicemembers and adult dependents to receive text messages providing updates on spouse employment opportunities, childcare availability, TRICARE benefits, and Department-wide policy changes. The initiative, which provides the option to opt out, aims to streamline communication and reduce reliance on fragmented channels such as social media, newsletters, and installation-specific platforms. The bill also directs DoD to report to Congress by October 1, 2027, on participation, outcomes, costs, and whether the program should be expanded Department-wide. By consolidating routine updates into a single, efficient push-text system, the initiative is expected to reduce duplicative outreach efforts and improve long-term communication efficiency. “Military families deserve clear, consistent, and reliable communication, especially those stationed overseas,” said Representative Chrissy Houlahan. “Our bill ensures that servicemembers and their families on Okinawa get the information they need directly to their phones, without having to dig through multiple systems or outdated channels. As a former Air Force officer and daughter of a naval officer, I know how much this simple, modern approach to getting timely information can improve quality of life and readiness.” ""Having served overseas with my own family, I know firsthand that clear and timely communication can make all the difference. Whether it’s childcare availability, TRICARE updates, or family resources, our servicemembers stationed in Okinawa deserve information they can rely on. The Push-Text Initiative will deliver that support directly to their phones, strengthening both family stability and mission readiness,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “Our servicemembers and their families are relying on increasingly diverse sources of information, and they deserve to be met where they are at. Clear and dependable communication is essential for military families stationed abroad,” said Congressman Bacon. “I’m pleased to co-lead the INFORM Act with Rep. Houlahan, to establish a DoD pilot delivering timely and relevant text updates to servicemembers and dependents in Okinawa. I am hopeful that the success of this program will lead to adoption across the force.” “When America’s servicemembers answer the call to serve our country overseas, military families serve right alongside them. They need and deserve clear, reliable communication they can count on, especially when they are thousands of miles from home,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander. “Our military readiness depends upon our operational readiness, and this commonsense bipartisan bill will strengthen both.” “When military families receive the right information at the right time, they stay resilient, informed, and mission ready,” Rep. Horsford said. “If we can track flights, packages, and banking in real time, families should be able to track TRICARE deadlines and childcare openings just as easily. The pilot program we’re proposing today does just that, proving that smart, modern communication doesn’t have to be complicated, and that small changes can have big quality-of-life benefits for service members and their families. I’m proud to partner with Representatives Houlahan, Bacon, Kiggans, Goodlander and Wittman to help give military families the consistent, direct, and timely communication they deserve.” “Ensuring that our service members have access to reliable, consistent communication is essential for military readiness. For those stationed in Okinawa, timely updates can make all the difference in their day-to-day lives and provide stability for their families. I’m proud to cosponsor the INFORM Act, which will ensure that the brave men and women serving our nation, as well as their families, have access to the resources they need to stay informed and connected,” said Congressman Wittman. The proposal also carries significant national security implications. During major contingency scenarios, such as a crisis involving China, commercial communications systems in Okinawa could be disrupted. By building a controlled, state-side-managed communications capability, the bill lays the groundwork for a more resilient information pipeline that can operate even if local infrastructure is compromised. “This bipartisan pilot is a crucial step toward making sure no family is left without critical updates when it matters most. That’s not just good communication policy, its readiness,” Representative Chrissy Houlahan said. Read the bill text here. # # #",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/12/reps-dean-and-mace-join-senators-booker-and-paul-to-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-promote-research-and-access-to-potential-life-saving-drugs,Reps. Dean and Mace Join Sens. Booker and Paul on Bill to Expand Research and Access to Potential Life Saving Drugs,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Nancy Mace (SC-01) introduced the Freedom to Heal Act to remove regulatory hurdles that inhibit research and access to potentially lifesaving treatments heavily restricted by Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rand Paul (R-KY) to introduced companion legislation. The biparistan legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Lou Correa (CA-46), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Jack Bergman (MI-01), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), and Morgan Luttrell (TX-08). The federal Right to Try law permits patients who have been diagnosed with life-threatening diseases or conditions, and who have exhausted all approved treatment options, access to certain treatments that have not yet received final FDA approval. In general, a drug is eligible for Right to Try use after a Phase 1 clinical trial has been completed for that drug, but prior to the drug being approved or licensed by the FDA. Under the terms of the federal Right to Try law, states remain free to permit or prohibit Right to Try use under their own laws. In recent years, two substances currently classified as Schedule I drugs—MDMA and psilocybin—have shown exceptional promise in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including treatment resistant depression and PTSD. In Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials, these drugs have been shown to be safe and effective—so effective that FDA has designated them “breakthrough therapies,” meaning that they demonstrate substantial improvement over any currently available therapies. However, the DEA currently lacks a pathway under the Right to Try law to register and approve physicians to administer these potentially life-saving drugs. TheFreedom to Heal Act would create a Schedule I Right to Try physician registration process that would give people with severe, life-threatening conditions, including Veterans, a legal, supervised path to access these safe and effective therapies that have shown exceptional promise, while ensuring DEA oversight to prevent drug misuse or diversion. “As families across the country face the growing mental health and substance use disorder crises, we must expand their options for care,” Rep. Dean said. “Our bipartisan legislation reduces barriers for physicians to provide compassionate use of several innovative and potentially lifesaving treatments, including MDMA and psilocybin. Our loved ones, including our veterans who served and sacrificed, deserve to heal — Congress must work to make that recovery possible for more people.” “Patients facing life-threatening illnesses or severe mental health conditions deserve access to every possible treatment, including investigational therapies such as MDMA and psilocybin that have shown to be safe and effective in multiple clinical trials,” Senator Booker said. “Thousands of Americans, many of them Veterans, are desperate for access to these therapies after exhausting all approved treatments in the United States. The Freedom to Heal Act is critical legislation that will remove unnecessary barriers and give physicians a pathway to legally administer these potentially lifesaving treatments.” ""As a physician, I have seen how critical Right to Try can be for patients who are running out of options. Yet current law leaves doctors with no clear, legal way to administer investigational therapies that fall under Schedule I. This bill creates that pathway. I am glad to work across the aisle to ensure patients, and their doctors are not blocked by federal barriers who have exhausted standard options. This is a practical reform that honors both patient autonomy and medical judgment,” Dr. Rand Paul said. The Freedom to Heal Act is endorsed by: The Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, Reason for Hope, The American Legion, American Brain Coalition, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Americans for Ibogaine, BrainFutures, Grunt Style Foundation, Irreverent Warriors, Veteran Research and Education Curation (VetREC), Wrestle Like A Girl, Texans for Greater Mental Health, Avesta Mental Health, Healing Breakthrough, Heroic Hearts Project, iXpressGenes, Inc., Mental Joe Apparel, The Menninger Clinic, Nevada Coalition for Psychedelic Medicines, Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps, Mpower Counseling PLLC, Beckley Retreats PB, the Veterans Alliance for Holistic Alternatives, End it For Good, Marine Reconnaissance Foundation, Athletes for Care, The Mission Within, and Sunstone Therapies. “We believe Congress should act with urgency to pass the Freedom to Heal Act. It is clearly wrong and immoral that Veterans are leaving the country they selflessly served to access potentially lifesaving treatments that should already be available within our borders under Right to Try. Lives are on the line. Let’s act now,” Martin R. Steele, Lieutenant General, USMC (Ret.), President of the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition (VMHLC) said. “I served during some of the heaviest levels of combat in Iraq and Afghanistan and came home with significant trauma. After a decade of talk therapy, surgeries, and pharmaceuticals, I was out of options—and was even denied access to an MDMA-assisted therapy trial because my condition was too severe. I ultimately had to leave the country to access psychedelic-assisted therapy, and it saved my life. While I was fortunate to have this experience, nobody should have to take such drastic measures. Yet there are thousands of other Veterans with similar experiences, including many of our coalition members. We’re grateful to the leaders in Congress who are taking a stand with the introduction of the Freedom to Heal Act, seeking to put an end to this injustice,” Gary Hess, Director of Advocacy and Peer Support, VMHLC said. “As someone currently leading a clinical trial of psilocybin to treat Veterans with PTSD, I know firsthand the significant number reaching out for help but who don’t qualify for our trial for various reasons. Unfortunately, it is often those most in need who are excluded. We must do more to help those individuals with life-threatening conditions who are out of options. The Freedom to Heal Act is a common-sense way to restore the intent of Right to Try and give patients a safe, legal path to pursue promising investigational therapies under medical supervision,” Dr. Lynnette Averill, Chief Science Officer, Reason for Hope, Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and Director of Research, The Menninger Clinic said. “As a palliative care physician, I’ve had many patients reach out seeking access to psilocybin for severe end of life distress, but regulation has stood in the way of the Right to Try. The Freedom to Heal Act offers a pragmatic legal fix that can meaningfully help relieve suffering for our patients in greatest need,” Drew Kotler, MD, Palliative Care, Main Line Health said. ""As a coalition representing leading professional and patient organizations concerned with brain health, we recognize the need to balance additional research with access to promising treatments for those most in need. The Freedom to Heal Act will ensure the compassionate policy underlying Right to Try extends to some of our most promising investigational treatments for mental and neurological health conditions,"" Katie Sale, Executive Director of the American Brain Coalition said. “It is hard to believe that federal law continues to block patients most in need - those with terminal or life-threatening conditions - from accessing our most promising investigational mental health treatments under Right to Try. The Freedom to Heal Act proposes a narrow, targeted solution to the Schedule 1 barrier, while ensuring DEA maintains its desired oversight. We thank the Congressmembers championing this issue, and hope Congress will work with the White House and DEA to quickly fix this obvious problem,” Brett Waters, Esq., Executive Director, Reason for Hope said. ""Too many Veterans and patients with severe, life-threatening conditions must seek treatment abroad when options at home fall short. The Freedom to Heal Act helps close that gap. Sunstone supports this legislation because it delivers a safe, physician-guided path for those who have run out of alternatives. These patients deserve the very best of science, not additional obstacles to care,"" Leith States, MD MPH MBA FACPM, SVP - Strategic Military Initiatives, Sunstone Therapies said. ""We absolutely must continue to fund and conduct rigorous research on these emerging therapies, which are showing real promise in treating serious mental health and neurological conditions. But we cannot ignore the fact that many patients who are desperately seeking relief do not meet inclusion criteria for existing studies. The Freedom to Heal Act offers a regulated pathway for these patients to access investigational treatments legally and safely while research continues,"" Amy L. McGuire, JD, PhD, Leon Jaworski Professor of Biomedical Ethics, Director, Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine said. “The Freedom to Heal Act is important because it gives patients facing life-threatening illnesses the ability to pursue every possible option when time is running out—restoring autonomy, dignity, and hope at the moments when they need it most,” Sarah Norman, Executive Director, BrainFutures said. Read the full text of the bill here. Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-bonamici-moylan-restart-push-protect-workers-ai-and-robot-bosses,"Deluzio, Bonamici, Moylan Restart Push to Protect Workers from AI and Robot Bosses",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), and Congressman James Moylan (GU-AL) reintroduced legislation to protect workers from AI-based discrimination and strengthen transparency in management and hiring decisions. The No Robot Bosses Act would fight back against discrimination from Artificial intelligence (AI)-based hiring tools by adding protections for job applicants and employees related to automated decision systems. The legislation also requires employers to train users on responsible system management and disclose when and how these systems are being used. “It’s the Wild West out there for AI, and Congress should not twiddle its thumbs. It’s time to take up proposals that will protect the humanity and rights of workers,” said Congressman Deluzio. “The No Robot Bosses Act would step in to put in place common-sense guardrails during the hiring, disciplinary, or firing processes, fighting back against the rising threat of misuse and abuse of AI technologies.” “As more companies rely on artificial intelligence to make hiring decisions, we must establish safeguards to protect workers from potential discrimination,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “There are numerous examples of flawed AI systems that produce biased outcomes for people of different backgrounds, especially for lower wage jobs. No one should be shut out of a future job because of a machine’s decision. We must act now to keep the doors of opportunity open to all who are seeking employment.” ""AI can improve the hiring process, but only if people can trust the systems behind it,"" said Congressman Moylan. ""This bill strikes the right balance by encouraging innovation while putting commonsense safeguards in place so workers aren’t disadvantaged by untested or biased algorithms. At the end of the day, human judgment still needs to guide employment decisions, ensuring that the hiring process remains rooted in transparency and accountability."" AI has advanced considerably even since the congressmembers first introduced this bill in 2024. While some states and municipalities are working hard to assess and regulate this technology, there is currently no federal policy that puts safeguards on AI in the workplace. This summer, Congressman Deluzio discussed this issue more broadly at an event with the Roosevelt Institute. The No Robot Bosses Act: Prohibits employers from relying exclusively on an automated decision system when making employment-related decisions; Requires pre-deployment and periodic testing and validation of automated decision systems for issues such as discrimination and biases before such systems are used in employment-related decisions; Requires employers to train individuals or entities on the proper operation of automated decision systems; Mandates that employers provide independent, human oversight of automated decision system outputs before using the outputs to aid an employment-related decision; Requires timely disclosures from employers on the use of automated decision systems, the data inputs and outputs from these systems, and employee rights related to the decisions aided by these systems; and Establishes the Technology and Worker Protection Division at the Department of Labor to regulate the use of automated decision systems in the workplace. A summary of the legislation can be found here. The full text can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4853,"Pentagon Claims It “Absolutely” Knows Who It Killed in Boat Strikes. Prove It, Lawmaker Says.",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Originally published in The Intercept Written by Nick Turse After Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson declared the War Department was certain about the identities of supposed drug smugglers killed in boat strikes, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., had some questions about the intelligence. When Houlahan called on Wilson to appear before Congress, however, the outspoken and controversial spokesperson suddenly went silent. “I can tell you that every single person who we have hit thus far who is in a drug boat carrying narcotics to the United States is a narcoterrorist. Our intelligence has confirmed that, and we stand by it,” Wilson said on Tuesday during a pseudo Pentagon press briefing where attendance was limited to media outlets that have agreed to limits on the scope of their reporting. “Our intelligence absolutely confirms who these people are,” she said. “I can tell you that, without a shadow of a doubt, every single one of our military and civilian lawyers knows that these individuals are narcoterrorists.” In exclusive comments to The Intercept, Houlahan expressed her doubts and demanded proof. “If there is intelligence that ‘absolutely confirms’ this — present it. Come before the House or Senate Intelligence committees and let Congress provide the proper oversight and checks and balances the American people deserve,” said Houlahan, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. “Put the whispers and doubts to rest once and for all. If there is intelligence to ‘absolutely confirm’ this, the Congress is ready to receive it. Until we all see it, you can surely understand why we are skeptical.” Both the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, both of which Houlahan serves on, routinely receive classified briefings from the military. Wilson — who touted a “new era” of worki to “keep the American people informed and to ensure transparency” on Tuesday — did not respond to questions or requests for comment from The Intercept about Houlahan’s remarks or appearing before Congress. In past classified briefings to lawmakers and congressional staff, the military has admitted that it does not know exactly who it’s killing in the boat strikes, according to seven government officials who have spoken with The Intercept. Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., also a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said that Pentagon officials who briefed her admitted that the administration does not know the identities of all the individuals who were killed in the strikes. “They said that they do not need to positively identify individuals on the vessels to do the strikes,” Jacobs told The Intercept in October. “They just need to show a connection to a DTO or affiliate,” she added, using shorthand for “designated terrorist organizations,” the Trump administration’s term for the secret list of groups with whom it claims to be at war. Twenty-One Attacks The military has carried out 21 known attacks, destroying 22 boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September and killing at least 83 civilians. It has not conducted a strike on a vessel since November 15. Since the strikes began, experts in the laws of war and members of Congress from both parties say the strikes are illegal extrajudicial killings because the military is not permitted to deliberately target civilians — even suspected criminals — who do not pose an imminent threat of violence. The summary executions mark a major departure from typical practice in the long-running U.S. war on drugs, where law enforcement agencies arrest suspected drug smugglers. A double-tap strike during the initial September 2 attack — where the U.S. hit an incapacitated boat for a second time, killing two survivors clinging to the wreckage — added a second layer of illegality to strikes that experts and lawmakers say are already tantamount to murder. The double-tap strike was first reported by The Intercept. War Secretary Pete Hegseth has been under increasing fire for that strike. The Washington Post recently reported that Hegseth personally ordered the follow-up attack, giving a spoken order “to kill everybody.” Hegseth acknowledged U.S. forces conducted a follow-up strike on the alleged drug boat during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday but distanced himself from the killing of people struggling to stay afloat. “I didn’t personally see survivors,” Hegseth told reporters, noting that he watched live footage of the attack. “The thing was on fire. It was exploded in fire and smoke. You can’t see it.” He added, “This is called the fog of war.” Hegseth said Adm. Frank M. Bradley, then the commander of Joint Special Operations Command and now head of Special Operations Command, “made the right call” in ordering the second strike, which the war secretary claimed came after he himself left the room. In a statement to The Intercept earlier this week, Special Operations Command pushed back on the contention that Bradley ordered a double-tap attack. “He does not see his actions on 2 SEP as a ‘double tap,’” Col. Allie Weiskopf, the director of public affairs at Special Operations Command, told The Intercept on Tuesday. Bradley and Gen. Dan Caine, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, are slated to go to Capitol Hill on Thursday to answer questions about the attack amid an ongoing uproar. Congressional staffers say that Bradley is currently slated to only meet with House Armed Services Committee Chair Mike Rogers, R-Ala., and ranking member Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., along with the Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and ranking member Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I. “The Seditious Six” Houlahan was one of six Democratic members of Congress who appeared in a video late last month reminding members of the military of their duty not to obey illegal orders. President Donald Trump called for the group to face arrest and trial or even execution, saying the video amounted to “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR FROM TRAITORS.” Wilson, during her faux press briefing — delivered to mostly administration cheerleaders after outlets from the New York Times to Fox News relinquished their Pentagon press passes rather than agree to restrictions that constrain reporters’ First Amendment rights — called out Houlahan and her fellow lawmakers in the video. “[T]he Seditious Six urged members of our military to defy their chain of command in an unprecedented, treasonous and shameful conspiracy to sow distrust and chaos in our armed forces,” said Wilson. She went on to call the video “a politically motivated influence operation” that “puts our warfighters at risk.” Hegseth described the members of Congress’s video as “despicable, reckless, and false.” Hegseth himself, however, had delivered a similar message recorded in 2016 footage revealed by CNN on Tuesday. “If you’re doing something that is just completely unlawful and ruthless, then there is a consequence for that. That’s why the military said it won’t follow unlawful orders from their commander-in-chief,” Hegseth told an audience in the footage. “There’s a standard, there’s an ethos, there’s a belief that we are above what so many things that our enemies or others would do.” Wilson did not reply to a request for comment about Hegseth’s remarks. Hegseth is also in the hot seat after the Pentagon Inspector General’s Office determined that he risked the safety of U.S. service members by sharing sensitive military information on the Signal messaging app, according to a source familiar with the forthcoming report by the Pentagon watchdog.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-announces-28-million-federal-grants-support-14-western-pa-fire,Deluzio Announces $2.8 Million in Federal Grants to Support 14 Western PA Fire Departments,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that fourteen Western Pennsylvania fire departments are receiving more than $2.8 million in federal grant funding to support their public safety missions. This followed outreach from Congressman Deluzio’s office to bring home grants like these back to Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District. The funding was provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via the Department of Homeland Security’s Fiscal Year 2024 Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs. The majority of the funding will help fourteen Western PA fire departments purchase critical equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources through the AFG program. Just under $1 million will help one department with firefighter recruitment and retention through the SAFER program. A total of $2,831,964.22 in federal funding is coming to fire departments in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. ""I am thrilled to announce that fourteen Western Pennsylvania fire departments are getting federal dollars to help them do the hard work to keep all of us safe,” said Congressman Deluzio. “These grants will help our local fire departments buy gear and equipment and better recruit and keep more firefighters on the force. Our first responders show up for all of us in our times of need—I will always have their back and push to make sure our federal government does, too. I encourage other fire departments in Western Pennsylvania to apply for this funding—my office stands ready to support your applications as best we can.” “We would like to thank Congressman Deluzio and his staff for the assistance they provided in us obtaining our FEMA AFG grant,” said Jim Essek, President of the Harmony Township Volunteer Fire Dept. “We know this grant is very competitive, and I’m sure his letter helped us in purchasing the air compressor and cascade system. Not only will this grant assist our department, but also the Leetsdale and Fair Oaks fire departments.” The full list of grant awardees is as follows: Assistance to Firefighters Grants Beaver Falls Fire Dept. – $12,290 Big Beaver Volunteer Fire Co. – $4,571 Castle Shannon Firemens’ Relief Association – $65,588 Cherry City Volunteer Fire Co. – $96,000 Darlington Township Volunteer Fire Dept – $471,428 Hanover Volunteer Fire Dept. – $19,047 Harmony Township Volunteer Firemen – $59,090 Harrison Hills Volunteer Fire Co. – $47,419 Kennedy Township Independent Volunteer – $74,666 Moon Township Volunteer Fire Co. – $43,636 Peebles Volunteer Fire Co. – $52,436 Presto Volunteer Fire Dept. – $330,604 Ross/West View Emergency Medical Service – $363,181 Southern Allegheny Valley Emergency Services – $242,761 Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Southern Allegheny Valley Emergency Services – $949,240 As a condition of AFG grants, the recipient fire department is required to contribute non-federal funds equal to or greater than five percent of the Federal funds awarded. Many other fire departments in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District are eligible and encouraged to apply for this grant. Interested departments should review Congressman Deluzio’ office’s one-pager and connect with Emma Dawson, Grants Coordinator, in his Carnegie Office by emailing PA17Grants@mail.house.gov. Congressman Deluzio will continue to support local first responders by advocating for federal funding like this and through legislation including his Bipartisan Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program Expansion Act. The Trump Administration’s efforts to freeze funding and pause federal grants has created significant uncertainty for grantees, varying by agency and program. As of now, the courts are involved in determining whether many of these funding freezes will continue permanently or go on pause. Congressman Deluzio's office will continue to monitor these developments and fight to make sure federal funding keeps flowing to projects that make life better for Western Pennsylvanians. Recipients of federal grants with issues accessing lawfully appropriated funds, should reach out to Congressman Deluzio's office at PA17Grants@mail.house.gov. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-warren-lawmakers-renew-fight-honor-wwii-cadet-nurses,"Deluzio, Warren, Lawmakers Renew Fight to Honor WWII Cadet Nurses",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and Angus King (I-Maine), along with U.S. Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), reintroduced the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act, a bill honoring women who served in the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps during WWII with honorary veteran status. The bill would recognize former Cadet Nurses' service to the country and provide them with honorary veterans status, honorable discharges, a service medal, a burial plaque or grave marker, and other commendations. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) also joined in co-sponsoring the bill in the Senate. During WWII, a severe shortage of trained nurses threatened the United States’ ability to meet domestic and military medical needs. As a result, Congress established the Cadet Nurse Corps, an integrated, uniformed service of the Public Health Administration, in 1943 to provide women with expedited nursing education in exchange for ""essential military or civilian nursing for the duration of the war."" In 1944, the Federal Security Agency identified ""national recognition for rendering a vital war service"" as a privilege of service in the Corps. In total, nearly 120,000 women completed the Corps' rigorous training and served in military hospitals, VA hospitals, Marine hospitals, private hospitals, public health agencies, and public hospitals until the program ended in 1948. One of those women, Cadet Nurse Elizabeth ""Betty"" Beecher, trained to become a Cadet Nurse in Boston, Massachusetts, and then served as a nurse at a Staten Island, N.Y., marine hospital near the end of WWII. ""We prevented a total collapse of the health care system,"" she said. ""Had we not stepped up and volunteered and enlisted in the Corps, I'm afraid the country would have been demoralized and our boys would have come home to a sick country."" “Cadet nurses help the United States and our Allies win World War II,” said Congressman Deluzio. “They made enormous sacrifices and bravely put themselves in harm’s way in their efforts to save lives. I am proud to join with my colleagues to reintroduce the United States Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act of 2023 to grant these nurses honorary veteran status and other benefits that these cadet nurses earned through their service.” “It’s about time we recognize these women for their service to our country during World War II,” said Senator Warren. “They stepped up to prevent our nation’s health care system from collapsing and were crucial to our wartime efforts — that is the definition of patriotism.” “The brave women of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps, including Montanan Laura Koch-Natvig, served our nation selflessly during World War II,” said Senator Daines. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to give the Cadet Nurse Corps the honor and recognition they deserve, so the legacy of these brave women will be forever remembered.” “The cadet nurses of World War II are unsung heroes whose bravery and selfless service helped the United States and our Allies win the war,” said Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees. “As our nation struggled to meet medical staffing levels and take care of its soldiers, young women across the country stepped up to help make a difference and save lives. It is a privilege to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act, which will give long overdue recognition to these remarkable women of the Greatest Generation and further cement their important role in defending freedom and democracy.” “The women of the Cadet Nurse Corps kept our hospitals going at a moment when our country desperately needed them. Without their service, the outcome of the war, and the world we live in today, would be very different,” said Congressman Mike Lawler. The U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act would: Provide Cadet Nurses with honorary veteran status, with an honorable discharge from service where merited and; Permit the Secretary of Defense to provide honorably discharged Cadet Nurses with a service medal, a burial plaque or grave marker, and other commendations to honor their service. The bill was included in the House version of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act. While the legislation would provide the appropriate military honors, it would not provide still-living Cadet Nurses with Veterans Affairs pensions, healthcare benefits, or other privileges afforded to former active-duty service members, such as burial benefits in Arlington Cemetery. “The Military Women's Memorial strongly supports this vital legislation to finally honor the more than 124,000 members of the Cadet Nurse Corps, whose service was indispensable to the success of the World War II effort. Replacing nurses who had joined the military, they served on the home front in military and civilian hospitals across the nation, eventually providing 80% of the nursing care in the U.S. These women personify the commitment and sacrifice of women in service, stepping up to fill a critical nursing shortage. Like their military brothers and sisters, their pledge to serve 'for the duration of the war, plus six months' is a sacred commitment that deserves the highest recognition, and we urge Congress to pass this long-overdue tribute to their legacy,"" said Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women’s Memorial. “AACN applauds the introduction of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps Service Recognition Act,"" said Dr. Deborah Trautman, President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “We look forward to working with Congress to honor the members of the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps who embodied the bravery of the ‘greatest generation' and who nobly served our country during World War II.” “The Cadet Nurses answered the call of duty during a time of great need,” said American Nurses Association President Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN. “By addressing a critical shortage of nurses during World War II, the Cadet Nurse Corp ensured that Americans maintained access to health care throughout the yearslong conflict. ANA is proud to support this bill, which honors and recognizes the extraordinary contributions that the women of the United States Cadet Corps made to their country. The bill is endorsed by the Military Women’s Memorial, the American Nurses Association, and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4842,Representatives Houlahan and Sessions Introduce the Independence Investment Fund Act to Strengthen U.S. Leadership in Biotechnology and Emerging Technologies,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) has introduced the bipartisan Independence Investment Fund Act, legislation establishing a dedicated investment fund within the Department of the Treasury to support U.S. based companies developing critical and emerging technologies, including biotechnology. She is joined in this effort by Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) as Co-lead, with Congressman Ro Khanna, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, and Congresswoman Stephanie Bice serving as original cosponsors. The bill creates a federal investment mechanism designed to bridge the funding “valley of death,” where promising early-stage technologies often fail to reach commercialization due to limited access to capital. By providing strategic seed to mid-stage equity investments, the fund aims to de-risk innovation, counter adversarial foreign investment, strengthen national and economic security, and accelerate the development of technologies central to America’s future competitiveness. “Too many promising biotech and other emerging tech companies fall into the ‘valley of death,’ when critical early capital is hardest to secure. Meanwhile, the Chinese Communist Party is investing billions, and the U.S. is falling behind. By creating a government-backed, privately run investment fund, our legislation gives small and mid-sized innovators, especially in biotechnology, the strategic capital they need to bring breakthrough technologies to market. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Sessions on this effort and grateful for our joint leadership of the BIOTech Caucus as we work to strengthen America’s technological edge,” said Congresswoman Houlahan. “Our national security depends on our ability to innovate faster and more effectively than our adversaries,” said Congressman Sessions. “The Independence Investment Fund Act strengthens America’s position by directing strategic investments into technologies that are essential for our prosperity and long-term security. This bill ensures that America—not China—sets the pace for the next generation of biotechnology and emerging technologies.” “Federal investments in biotechnology and the fostering of stronger public-private partnerships will secure America its place as an innovative leader in the 21st-century economy. I’m proud to cosponsor Rep. Pete Sessions Independence Investment Act and establishing a non-partisan Independence Investment Fund to strengthen U.S. national and economic security,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. “Strong public–private partnerships keep American science and technology at the forefront of global innovation while creating good-paying jobs here at home. I’m proud to cosponsor the Independence Investment Fund Act, which will help ensure the United States leads in the critical and emerging biotechnologies needed to meet 21st-century challenges,” said Congresswoman April McClain Delaney. “This legislation helps strengthen and grow the United States biotechnology sector, ensuring we can remain a global leader. Without additional investment mechanisms, emerging technologies that are crucial to national security risk being outpaced by adversarial foreign nations, such as China. We must enhance our biotechnology sector and protect our national and economic security,” said Congresswoman Bice. The Independence Investment Fund Act is supported by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, ARCH Venture Partners, Ocugen Pharma, the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing, and the Science and Technology Action Committee. Their full statements of support are included below. Statement from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology: “The U.S. innovates better than anyone in the world, but new technologies important for national security can be too risky or uncertain for private investors,” said NSCEB Vice Chair Michelle Rozo. “In our April 2025 report, the NSCEB identified this as a key area for government action. We are grateful to our congressional partners for introducing legislation to create a strategic investment fund that can make targeted investments in promising technologies that incentivize follow-on private capital, all in support of U.S. national security.” Statement from ARCH Venture Partners: “ARCH supports efforts to ensure American innovation remains the global benchmark.” Statement from Ocugen Pharma: “The massive gap between research and commercial readiness remains a significant barrier for emerging biotechnology companies,” said Dr. Shankar Musunuri, Chairman, CEO and Co-founder of Ocugen. “Existing financing mechanisms do not fully address the development challenges that prevent promising therapies from reaching patients. The Independence Investment Fund Act fills this gap by providing targeted investment support that will strengthen domestic bio innovation and manufacturing and enable companies like ours to progress critical technologies that contribute to national and economic resilience. We encourage all American industry stakeholders to support this legislation in order to maintain our dominance as the global leader in biotech.” Statement from the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing: “The Independence Investment Fund Act provides the strategic investment the U.S. needs to stay ahead in biomanufacturing. By closing critical financing gaps, the fund will help ensure that critical biotechnologies break through and scale here at home, supporting high-quality jobs in rural and urban communities alike. This is the kind of forward-looking commitment required to secure American leadership in the bioeconomy.” Statement from the Science and Technology Action Committee: “This brilliant bill will empower the U.S. biotechnology sector to translate new discoveries from academia into transformative products that build economic and national security while addressing challenges to health, energy, environment, and food,” said Keith Yamamoto, Co-Chair of the Science and Technology Action Committee.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1980,Ranking Member Scanlon’s Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on Republicans’ Misguided Balanced Budget Amendment Push,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Mary Gay Scanlon,S001205,scanlon.house.gov,scanlon,https://scanlon.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, today delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing on Republicans’ misguided attempt to advance a balanced budget amendment, just as they add trillions of dollars to the national debt by gifting their billionaire buddies generous handouts on the backs of hardworking Americans. Below are Ranking Member Scanlon’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at today’s hearing. WATCH Ranking Member Scanlon’s opening statement. “Good morning, and thank you to our witnesses for testifying today. The decisions that Congress makes about the economy, about taxes, spending, and budgets, are, or should be, decisions about values—who we’re fighting for, what kind of country we are, or want to be, and the future we’re trying to create for our children. That brings us to the topic of today’s hearing, a balanced budget constitutional amendment—a misguided proposal about how to address the often competing values and interests that must be taken into account when crafting our national budget. Of course, we all share the goal of developing smart, efficient fiscal policy and budgets, but for decades, Republican presidents and members of Congress have talked a big game about “fiscal responsibility” while enacting policies that have exploded the federal deficit and the national debt. It wasn't that long ago, about 25 years, when under the Clinton administration the US had a balanced budget, fueled in part by a combination of tax increases, spending cuts and reduced military spending. But since then, in the early 2000s and again during the first Trump administration, Republicans have handed the ultrawealthy huge tax breaks, eroding the federal government’s revenue base and threatening our ability to fund essential programs that Americans rely on. Time and again, these policies have failed to produce the broader benefits for all Americans that the advocates of “trickle down economics” have promised. And instead, they exploded the deficit, adding $10 trillion to the national debt. Despite this, this summer Republicans once again doubled down, permanently extending tax giveaways to the wealthy in their One Big Ugly Bill, further expanding the deficit and ballooning the national debt. Now, after voting for that policy, our Republican colleagues think it’s time for them to turn around and make a show of caring about fiscal responsibility. But, don’t be fooled. Today’s hearing is just part of a decades-long, orchestrated political effort to help corporations and the wealthiest people avoid paying their fair share, a theory that tries to convince people that reckless tax giveaways to corporations and billionaires somehow stimulate investment and economic growth for everyone, for the greater good—a lie that’s been debunked again and again for more than 50 years, and one that’s led to sky-high income inequality and the enshrinement of a corporate oligarchy in our society. These tax policies, these giveaways, have fueled the greatest rise in income inequality that our country has ever known, resulting in a continuing transfer of wealth from working and middle class Americans to the wealthiest people in our country. And we need look no further than the fact that the top 1% in our country pay a lower tax rate than all other Americans. This pathological dedication to trickle-down economics is outrageous. It betrays the values that this country should stand for, and which our budgets should reflect. If we want to shrink the deficit and lower the nation’s debt, we should be talking about a tax policy that gives relief to working families and makes the rich and corporations pay their fair share, rather than allowing them to reap even more profits by imposing the costs of their businesses on the American people by paying substandard wages or poisoning the environment. This isn’t a radical idea. A tax policy that makes sure that everyone pays their fair share should be the starting point of any serious discussion about bringing the two sides of the budget equation: taxes and revenue on the one hand and spending, including military spending on the other. But, it takes a different kind of politics than what we’re hearing today—one that believes the purpose of government is to serve all Americans, not just the wealthy and well-connected. And the programs that our Republican colleagues have been only too ready to slash, in their Big Ugly Bill and with political scam “balanced budget amendment” they are pushing in this hearing, are critical to the health and well-being of the American people. The majority of our yearly spending is mandatory—that is, funds not subject to Congressional appropriations and which must be paid, including: Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, veterans’ benefits, and retirement programs for military service members and federal employees. These are vital programs that help our government keep its promises to the American people. Less than half of our budget goes to discretionary spending, which is spending Congress appropriates each year, and half of that money goes to defense spending. We can make sure our national debt is on a sustainable path by investing wisely in the American people and taxing fairly. We can work to build an economy that grows from the middle out, not the top down. We can provide affordable health care and child care, affordable housing, and make sure that every child in America gets a world-class public education. But, that’s not what our Republican colleagues want to focus on today. Instead, their solution to the deficit problem they helped create is to propose Constitutional amendments that force Congress to balance the budget on the backs of working and middle-class families—forcing cuts to essential benefits like Medicare and Social Security. House Republicans have introduced at least six different proposed amendments. Though they don’t all share the same features, they all have the same common goal: to continue to put their thumb on the scale to favor big business and billionaires over working and middle-class people, seniors, and our most vulnerable Americans. A balanced budget amendment would shackle Congress and limit our flexibility to respond to changing economic conditions or crises with appropriate fiscal and budgetary policies. Tellingly, many of our Republican colleagues’ proposals would require a supermajority in Congress to raise revenue or the debt limit, but not to cut spending. The framers of our Constitution rejected the principle of requiring a supermajority for basic government functions because they believed it would shift power away from the American people’s popular will to a determined minority. Balanced budget proposals requiring a supermajority would allow an extremist minority to hold our nation’s economy and financial stability hostage. You only need to look at the chaos of the current Republican majority to see what might be in store under a proposed amendment. We’ve seen political brinksmanship over the debt ceiling and government funding. We’ve seen Speakers dethroned and federal budgets that slash health care and food assistance for Americans, while giving more handouts to the ultrawealthy. A balanced budget amendment would only make things worse, and this dysfunction would be baked into our Constitution and democracy forever. That’s not what the American people want, or need. The bottom line is, we don’t need to amend the Constitution to balance the federal budget. Our colleagues need to get their heads out of the sand and be willing to look at the revenue side of the equation. During the 1990s, under a Democratic president and a Republican controlled Congress, the federal government ran budget surpluses without a balanced budget amendment. Our Republican colleagues control the House, the Senate, and the White House. If they wanted to do this, they could. But, instead, they’ve chosen to make their number one legislative priority this term a trillion-dollar handout to their billionaire buddies. Our budget is not just numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s the choices we make: To invest in our neighbors and communities, to provide opportunities for young people, to take care of the elderly and the most vulnerable, and to invest in American prosperity. If we want a truly prosperous economy where everyone can get ahead, we need to abandon the misguided orthodoxy of trickle-down economics. Instead, we need to focus on policies that support children, families, communities, and working people. We don’t need a balanced budget amendment. We just need to do the job the American people sent us to do. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.” ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-summer-lee-joyce-beatty-introduce-bill-to-break-barriers-in-stem-and-strengthen-america-s-future-workforce,"Reps. Summer Lee, Joyce Beatty Introduce Bill to Break Barriers in STEM and Strengthen America’s Future Workforce",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Text of Bill (PDF) WASHINGTON, D.C. – DECEMBER 3, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) announced the introduction of the 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act, legislation designed to close persistent equity gaps in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and expand high-quality STEM education access for girls and students from underrepresented communities. As STEM careers continue to drive economic growth and shape the future workforce, women and people of color remain significantly underrepresented. Recent declines in national mathematics performance have sharpened the urgency. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 22% of twelfth-grade students performed at or above the proficient level in mathematics in 2024. Black and Hispanic twelfth graders scored three and five percentage points lower than their 2019 averages, and female twelfth graders experienced nearly double the decline in math scores compared to their male peers. ""Pittsburgh is a growing beacon for the tech industry but resources and opportunities often do not extend to students in public schools right next door, particularly for our girls and underrepresented communities,” said Congresswoman Lee. “The 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act brings us one step closer to closing the education equity gap and ensuring all of our youth can bring their talents to this thriving industry. I am proud to co-lead this bill to support the next innovative generation of students."" “Our nation cannot afford to leave talent on the sidelines,” said Congresswoman Beatty. “Expanding STEM opportunities for girls and underrepresented minorities is essential for our economic future, our national competitiveness, and the next generation of innovators. This bill is an investment in the students who will build the world we live in tomorrow.” The 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act will: Direct the Department of Education to make grants to qualifying local education agencies to fund STEM education activities for girls and underrepresented minorities. Authorize $10 million to qualifying local educational agencies serving high-poverty students from fiscal years 2026 through 2029. These investments are designed to expand access to rigorous coursework, hands-on learning, and pathways that lead to STEM degrees and high-growth careers. Senator Alsobrooks is introducing companion legislation in the United States Senate. “Expanding opportunity in STEM is about more than equity or representation; it is tied to America’s economic future. When we close these gaps for our young people, we give them the power to forge their own path and break generational barriers in science, technology, engineering, math, and the careers that will shape tomorrow.” “I am laser-focused on finding opportunities for young women to succeed and thrive. Our 21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act would provide grants to local school districts to encourage girls and underrepresented students to pursue studies and careers in STEM fields. This legislation would create real pathways for success and wealth for our girls and students of color while also fueling our economy and keeping the United States a global leader in STEM,"" said Senator Alsobrooks. Additional co-leads of this bill include Rep. LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rep. Steven Lynch (MA-08), Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Rep. Bill Foster (IL-11), and Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11), and Rep. Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07). The original co-sponsors of this bill are Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large) and Wesley Bell (MO-01). Read the full bill text HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-calls-for-immediate-extension-of-aca-tax-credits-during-shadow-hearing,Rep. Summer Lee Calls for Immediate Extension of ACA Tax Credits During Shadow Hearing,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"(Link to video) WASHINGTON, D.C. – DECEMBER 2, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) participated in an Education and Workforce HELP Subcommittee Democratic shadow hearing titled “Republican Priorities: Billionaire Tax Breaks, Not Health Care for Working Families,” where she called for the urgent extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits and renewed her push for Medicare for All. The shadow hearing convened health policy experts, patient advocates, and small business owners to discuss rising health care costs and the devastating consequences of failing to extend the ACA’s enhanced subsidies before the end of the year. During her remarks, Rep. Lee condemned Republican efforts to cut Medicaid and allow ACA tax credits to expire, warning that families across Western Pennsylvania and the country will see their premiums spike by thousands of dollars if Congress fails to act. “People are rationing care in America like they had to ration food in the Great Depression. They are deciding if they can even afford to get the MRI, let alone the treatment for whatever the MRI uncovers,” Lee said. “We are the only wealthy nation that has not figured out a universal healthcare system. We have so much research and data that shows a Medicare for all, single-payer system will not only allow more folks to get basic healthcare, but it’s significantly cheaper than what we have now. Rep. Lee highlighted that more than 24,000 residents in Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District rely on ACA tax credits to afford coverage. Without congressional action, a 60-year-old couple in the district could see annual premiums rise by more than $12,000, while a working family of four could face increases exceeding $5,000. A central focus of Rep. Lee’s participation was the testimony of her constituent, Tori Baggot, a small business owner from Pittsburgh who relies on Pennie, Pennsylvania’s health insurance marketplace, to manage a chronic illness. Ms. Baggot currently pays $197 per month for coverage but would pay $2,400 more per year if the enhanced tax credits expire. “One of my constituents traveled all the way here from Pittsburgh today to let us know how important it is for Congress to fix healthcare. And in the immediate short-term, one of the things we must do is extend the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits so that folks don’t lose their healthcare in January,” Lee said. “I’m grateful you’re here today, Ms. Baggot, and I wish my Republican colleagues had joined us so they could hear your story too. But my Republican colleagues decided they would rather shut down the government for 42 days, the longest shutdown in history, than ensure my constituents could afford healthcare.” The hearing also featured testimony from Justin Giovannelli, Associate Research Professor and Project Director at the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University, and Katie Berge, Director of Federal Affairs at Blood Cancer United. Rep. Lee also pointed to a recent analysis by Center for American Progress, showing that 9 out of 10 low-income Americans enrolled in Marketplace coverage live in states that voted for Donald Trump in 2024—underscoring that the harm of letting tax credits expire will disproportionately hit working-class families, including in Republican-led states. “Just this summer, [Republicans] made the biggest Medicaid cuts in history to fund trillions in tax breaks for billionaires. When these cuts go into effect, over 17,000 people in my district will lose healthcare,” Lee said. “And when millions of people lose healthcare because republicans eliminate the ACA tax credits, cut Medicaid, and refuse the cheapest and most equitable healthcare model, Medicare for All, they will blame anyone and anything except for their failed policies.” Link to video HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-colleagues-in-reintroducing-ai-civil-rights-act-to-eliminate-algorithmic-discrimination-and-protect-civil-rights,Rep. Summer Lee Joins Colleagues in Reintroducing AI Civil Rights Act to Eliminate Algorithmic Discrimination and Protect Civil Rights,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bill Text (PDF) WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 2, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-11), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rep. Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), along with a growing coalition of civil rights advocates, to reintroduce the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act — comprehensive legislation to prevent companies from using biased and discriminatory AI-powered algorithms to help make critical decisions in Americans’ lives, ensure algorithms are tested before and after deployment, and increase transparency of complex algorithms used for critical decisions. “I represent neighborhoods that know what it feels like to be overpoliced, underinvested, and overlooked. If artificial intelligence is shaping people’s lives, then we must mitigate the harm it causes. This legislation puts up the necessary guardrails in an age of disinformation and misinformation. I’m grateful to Representatives Yvette Clarke, Pramila Jayapal, and Ayanna Pressley for co-leading this effort and for Senator Ed Markey for his partnership on this bill. We can and should be innovative with our technology, but never at the cost of our civil rights,” said Rep. Lee. “The AI Civil Rights Act represents a bold new front in our ongoing battle to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of every American. From developers to deployers, this legislation will place strict, strong, and unambiguous guardrails on the creation and use of artificial intelligence. I am deeply grateful to Senator Ed Markey for his steadfast leadership in introducing this critical bill. Together, we are making it very clear that innovation must never come at the expense of civil rights or justice,” said Rep. Clarke. “As AI innovation grows, it is incumbent on us all to prioritize the safety, rights, and opportunity of all people—especially the Black, brown, and marginalized communities who disproportionately bear the burden of biased and discriminatory systems,” said Rep. Pressley. “We cannot allow AI to be the latest chapter in America’s history of exploiting marginalized people. That is why the AI Civil Rights Act is necessary—to invest in an approach rooted in equity that safeguards all of our civil rights and liberties.” “This legislation comes at an inflection point for our country. Artificial intelligence has become a part of our everyday lives and grown into a projected $244 billion industry. A major risk of this new technology is the biases and discrimination that are built into algorithms – denying people housing or jobs based on race or gender. Our bill would place critical guardrails to ensure that the technologies of the future do not harden the injustices of the past,” said Rep. Jayapal. “We must address AI-powered bias and discrimination in the AI age,” said Senator Markey. “Under the AI Civil Rights Act, America would show leadership in AI—not just technological leadership, but moral leadership. We cannot abandon our principles in reckless pursuit of technological superiority. Otherwise, we risk building a future where innovation races ahead, but justice falls behind. I am grateful for Congresswomen Clarke, Pressley, Jayapal, and Lee for their partnership on the AI Civil Rights Act. We will not allow for AI to stand for accelerating injustice.” “The Lawyers’ Committee is proud to work in partnership with Senator Markey, Representatives Yvette Clarke, Summer Lee, Ayanna Pressley, and Pramila Jayapal as they introduce the AI Civil Rights Act to help ensure that AI systems are fair and equitable, as they become a large part of our daily lives. Most AI tools are built using data that reflects generations of racial discrimination, redlining, and segregation. Algorithms built on information about a troubled past can create new models that replicate these traumas as if they should be the norm for the future. So, increased transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of these technologies are critical steps for combating algorithmic bias. The Lawyers’ Committee has been on the front lines of this issue, litigating in the courts and leading policy debates focused on the impacts and opportunities of emerging technology for Black people and other communities of color. We all deserve technology that works for us, not against us. Adopting appropriate human-centered guardrails is both logical and a critical need. We know that with fierce defenders of civil rights and democracy in Congress like the sponsors and co-sponsors of the AI Civil Rights Act, we can make that ambition a reality,” said Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. “Technologies, including AI systems, are only innovative if they help people. AI should be a tool that works for all of us, no matter where we come from, the color of our skin, our age, or how much money we have. But every day, qualified people are unjustly locked out of jobs, housing, education opportunities, and health care, or are wrongly jailed or imprisoned because of AI systems that discriminate. AI is powerful, so when it discriminates it can supercharge bias,” said Maya Wiley, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. “The AI Civil Rights Act offers a way forward towards fairness and accountability by helping us see how AI is working, ensuring better accuracy, and holding companies that create and use AI accountable for protecting our rights. We are grateful for Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke’s commitment to creating a strong pro-civil rights federal standard that ensures we can all reap the benefits of the AI revolution.” “With corporations increasingly using AI systems to hire, fire, surveil, and make disciplinary decisions, workers need common-sense civil rights protections. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act introduced by Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke will do just that. It establishes critical guardrails to prevent AI discrimination, requires transparency from corporations around how they use AI, and holds corporations accountable when their AI systems perpetuate bias. This bill will be helpful in the labor movement’s ongoing fight to make sure that AI benefits workers instead of harming their jobs, rights, and freedoms,” said Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy at the AFL-CIO. “The AI Civil Rights Act is the bold, innovative policy we need today to ensure a just tomorrow for us all. The premise is simple: the AI tools and systems used at the most critical decision points in our lives – mediating our access to homes, employment, healthcare, and opportunities –should be demonstrated to be accessible and fair before being unleashed on the American public. With this technologically sophisticated bill, anchored in enduring American commitments to freedom, Senator Markey ushers in a new day for civil rights and digital equity,” said Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress. “AI is shaping access to opportunity across the country. ‘Black box’ systems make decisions about who gets a loan, receives a job offer, or is eligible for parole, often with little understanding of how those decisions are made. The AI Civil Rights Act makes sure that AI systems are transparent and give everyone a fair chance to compete,” said Cody Venzke, Senior Policy Counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union. “Artificial intelligence is fast becoming a part of everyday life, impacting all of our major decisions from housing and employment to education and healthcare. We thank Senators Markey and Booker, and Representative Clarke, for their proactive leadership in safeguarding our civil rights. The AI Civil Rights Act ensures that AI technologies do not reinforce existing inequalities, and instead contribute to a more just and equitable society,” said the National Urban League. The legislation is co-led in the House by Representatives Summer Lee (PA-12), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Yvette Clarke (NY-11), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and led by Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) in the Senate. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Representatives Wesley Bell (MO-01), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04). The AI Civil Rights Act is endorsed by the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the AFL-CIO, National Urban League, Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress and former Acting Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Sam Levine, Former Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, A Better Balance, Access Now, ACLU MA, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Brennan Center for Justice, Center for AI and Digital Policy, Center for Digital Democracy, Color of Change, Common Cause, Common Sense, Communications Workers of America, Deaf Equality, Demand Progress, Economic Policy Institute, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), Fight for the Future, Free Press Action, Hearing Loss Association of America, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, InnovateEDU, Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Investor Alliance for Human Rights, Japanese American Citizens League, Justice in Aging, NAACP, National Action Network, National Association of Consumer Advocates, National Education Association, National Housing Law Project, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New America's Open Technology Institute, Open MIC, Oxfam America, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Seventh Generation Interfaith Coalition for Responsible Investment, Sojourners, The National Alliance to End Homelessness, The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC), The NYU Policing Project, The Trevor Project, The Value Alliance, UnidosUS, United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry, United Steelworkers, Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), Youth Power Project, Third Act , LGBT Tech, Consumer Federation of America, Movement Advancement Project , League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), The Loop Lab / The Hope Group, National Partnership for Women & Families, and Kapor Center Advocacy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-valadao-work-bolster-election-security,"Deluzio, Valadao Work to Bolster Election Security",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) reintroduced the Strengthening Election Cybersecurity to Uphold Respect for Elections through Independent Testing (SECURE IT) Act. This bipartisan bill would require that voting systems undergo simulated cyberattacks as part of their standard certification process to help bolster the security of our election systems from foreign and domestic bad actors. “We’ve got to do everything we can to shore up America’s cybersecurity and voting systems and help make sure they remain strong and secure,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’m proud that this bipartisan bill will help identify and fix voting system vulnerabilities and conduct important system testing. We must make sure America’s democratic infrastructure can weather any and all attacks from our adversaries.” “Ensuring trust in our nation’s elections is vital, and in order for people to have confidence in our democratic process, we need to be doing everything we can to secure any vulnerabilities,” said Congressman Valadao. “The SECURE IT Act would proactively help discover potential flaws in our electoral system by outlining robust system security check requirements, and I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to strengthen our election infrastructure.” Background: The security of America’s election infrastructure is central to maintaining voters’ confidence in the democratic process. While federal law requires the Election Assistance Commission (EAC) to test and certify voting system hardware and software, current regulations under the Help America Vote Act of 2002 do not explicitly mandate penetration testing—a key cybersecurity practice that helps identify system vulnerabilities. The SECURE IT Act strengthens election security by directing the EAC to incorporate penetration testing into its certification process and establish a voluntary coordinated vulnerability disclosure program, enabling independent researchers to examine election systems for potential cybersecurity risks. Read the full bill here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1979,"Scanlon, Huffman, Bonamici, McBath, DeSaulnier Urge Department of Education To Halt Transfer of Special Education Programs To HHS",2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,PA,Mary Gay Scanlon,S001205,scanlon.house.gov,scanlon,https://scanlon.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) last week led Reps. Jared Huffman (CA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Lucy McBath (GA-07), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) and 37 House Democrats in urging the Department of Education to halt efforts to transfer special education programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Relocation of IDEA programs would violate congressional intent and threaten to further upend the lives of millions of students with disabilities and their families. The members’ inquiry is a follow up to an April 21 letter to address similar questions and concerns. “As we discussed in our April 21 letter, students with disabilities across the country rely on IDEA to access the free appropriate public education to which they are legally entitled. Shifting IDEA oversight to HHS without congressional authorization is not only illegal, but it also jeopardizes federal investments in and oversight over special education programs,” the members wrote. “Despite this Administration’s previous attempt to eliminate nearly the entire staff at the OSERS, the Department of Education remains the only federal agency with expertise, institutional knowledge, and established relationships with state and local education agencies to properly administer IDEA. We remain concerned that moving IDEA to HHS would improperly shift special education toward a medical model rather than an educational right,” the members continued. The members requested answers to the following questions by December 22, 2025: What steps has the Department taken towards transferring IDEA administration to another federal agency? What statutory authority do you have to move IDEA programs to another agency? What evidence do you have that such a transfer will not negatively affect students with disabilities’ access to a free appropriate public education? If you were to move forward with a transfer despite lacking the necessary authority, what office within HHS would assume responsibility for IDEA? What other programs within the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services is the Department considering relocating, and what agencies and offices would receive those programs? How has the staffing level in these offices changed since the beginning of this year? Has HHS notified you that it will implement to guarantee that the full intent and legal obligations of IDEA are upheld? Are you aware of any concrete steps that HHS will take to ensure that states and local education agencies receive the necessary support and guidance to comply with federal special education requirements? If so, what are those steps? Has the Administration consulted with stakeholders, including disability rights advocates and special education professionals, regarding this transfer? If so, how were those consultations conducted, and what concerns were raised? “We remain strongly opposed to efforts to transfer IDEA to HHS and urge you to properly consider the effects this change will have on millions of students with disabilities and their families,” the members concluded. Find full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4841,My Statement on FBI Request for Interviews,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Rep. Houlahan's Statement on the FBI Request for Interview President Trump is using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass Members of Congress. Yesterday, the FBI contacted the House and Senate Sergeants at Arms requesting interviews. No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution. We swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. We will not be bullied. We will never give up the ship. # # #",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4844,Rep. Houlahan introduces legislation to strengthen biopharmaceutical manufacturing,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Originally appeared in Pennsylvania Business Report Written by Liz Carey Rep. Houlahan introduces legislation to strengthen biopharmaceutical manufacturing U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) recently introduced a bicameral, bipartisan bill aimed at strengthening domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act would promote U.S. leadership in biotechnology, lawmakers said. Companion legislation was also introduced in the U.S. Senate. “Southeastern Pennsylvania has a storied history as a global leader in the life sciences,” Houlahan said. “Yet too many of our breakthroughs struggle to reach patients and markets because we lack the biomanufacturing capacity to scale and commercialize them. That gap threatens jobs, our regional competitiveness, and our access to medicines, applications, solutions and treatments Americans and our nation need. Our bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act tackles this head-on by creating a national Center of Excellence to drive innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The bill would cut costs, speed production, and grow our biotech workforce here in our Commonwealth. As competitors like the Chinese Communist Party race to dominate this space, we cannot afford to fall behind.” The legislation will reinvest in domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing, while reducing the country’s dependence on foreign supply chains and expanding access to cutting-edge medicines, law makers said. Specifically, the legislation will establish a public-private center dedicated to advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing, the National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence. The bill is endorsed by Life Sciences Pennsylvania, as well as other national and state science-based organizations. “Pennsylvania’s collaborative life sciences ecosystem has made our commonwealth a national leader in biopharmaceutical manufacturing for decades. We recognize the importance of the bipartisan and bicameral Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence Act. This legislation will help incentivize and protect national security as well as ensure a steadfast supply chain in delivering treatments and therapeutics in Pennsylvania, across the Country, and around the world,” Christopher P. Molineaux, president and CEO of Life Sciences PA, said.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4840,Congressional Democrats Introduce Legislation to Reverse SNAP Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans,2025-11-22,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON — Today, House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig (MN-02), and House Agriculture Committee's Subcommittee on Nutrition and Foreign Agriculture Ranking Member Jahana Hayes (CT-05) were joined by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Food and Nutrition, Specialty Crops, Organics, and Research, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), ranking member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. The legislation would repeal all the devastating Republican cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) made in the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill. The bicameral legislation is supported by over 190 House Democrats and every Democratic Senator. Congress has upheld a 50-year bipartisan commitment that Americans should not go hungry, but the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill breaks that promise with the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy, Congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will eliminate $187 billion in food assistance over the next decade, even as President Trump's tariffs increase grocery prices. These Republican cuts will take meals away from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. Additionally, the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts or even eliminate SNAP entirely. “President Trump has spent his first year in office repeatedly attacking our nation’s most effective anti-hunger program at a time when his tariffs are contributing to record food prices. His Big Ugly Bill cut SNAP – a basic needs food assistance program – by $187 billion, taking food away from millions of hungry American seniors, children, people with disabilities and veterans. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand up for our vulnerable neighbors and help to pass the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act,” said Ranking Member Craig. “At every opportunity, Republicans have chosen to target and decimate the programs that feed people. The Big Beautiful Bill implemented the largest cut to SNAP in history – putting the most vulnerable at higher risk of hunger. Republicans have proven that cruelty is the point. During the government shutdown, all of America watched as they once again chose to use hunger as a weapon and blocked emergency funding for SNAP – marking the first ever lapse in funding. With the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act, we can reverse the damage caused by this legislation and restore the nearly $200 billion eliminated from SNAP,"" said Representative Hayes. “From gutting SNAP in their Big Beautiful Betrayal of a bill to refusing to provide food assistance to families in need during the shutdown, this Administration has taken every opportunity to make it harder for Americans to put food on the table. With this legislation, we will keep fighting every step of the way to restore food assistance to families in need and ensure the 42 million Americans — including veterans, seniors and children — who count on SNAP don’t go to bed hungry,"" said Ranking Member Klobuchar. “For half a century, our nation has stood behind a bipartisan promise: that no child, no senior, no veteran, and no working family should go hungry. Republicans broke that promise and ripped meals away from millions of Americans in their Budget Betrayal. SNAP puts food on the table for 42 million people – including one in every five New Mexicans – yet the Trump administration spent the shutdown trying to block families from receiving food assistance and make it as difficult as possible to access their benefits. We have a responsibility to protect these families. That’s why I am leading Congressional Democrats in introducing legislation to fully repeal the Republican cuts to SNAP and ensure no American family goes hungry,"" said Senator Luján. “SNAP isn’t an abstract policy or a number in a spreadsheet, it’s food, dignity and survival for 42 million Americans. This summer, the Republican “Big, Ugly Bill” made the single largest cut to federal food assistance in our nation’s history. And during the Republican shutdown, the Trump administration weaponized hunger, blocking families from receiving SNAP benefits that Congress had already funded. Democrats are fighting back. Today, we introduced legislation to reverse these disastrous and deadly cuts and restore food security for millions of Americans. We will keep fighting until every family has the basic security and dignity of food on the table,"" said Leader Schumer. “Children, seniors, and low-income families will go hungry because of the Republican cuts to SNAP. This is yet another heartbreaking consequence of the Republican agenda to fund tax breaks for the ultrarich while working families struggle. Under Trump, it is always the red carpet for billionaires and red tape for families. I’ll keep fighting to reverse these devastating cuts,"" said Senator Merkley. Watch the full press conference here. Supporting quotes can be found here. Additionally, earlier this week, nearly 1,500 national, state, and community-based organizations signed a letter voicing support for this effort. SNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities and 1.2 million veterans. During the government shutdown, Ranking Member Craig led the charge against the Trump administration's illegal withholding of food assistance from hungry Americans. During debate on the Republicans' Big Ugly Bill, Ranking Member Craig spearheaded efforts to reverse the bill’s drastic cuts to food assistance. Together with Representative Hayes, Ranking Member Angie Craig led a Spotlight Hearing to underscore the devastating impact of Congressional Republicans’ plan to gut SNAP. In addition to Ranking Member Craig and Congresswoman Hayes, the House bill is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives: Alma S. Adams (NC-12), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT), Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA-44), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Wesley Bell (MO-01), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Sanford D. Bishop Jr. (GA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Shontel M. Brown (OH-11), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle S. Bynum (OR-05), Salud O. Carbajal (CA-24), Andre Carson (IN-07), Troy A. Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), James E. Clyburn (SC-06), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Herbert C. Conaway Jr. (NJ-03), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Jim Costa (CA-21), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Jason Crow (CO-06), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Suzan K. DelBene (WA-01), Christopher R. Deluzio (PA-17), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Bill Foster (IL-11), Valerie P. Foushee (NC-04), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jesus G. ""Chuy"" Garcia (IL-04), Daniel S. Goldman (NY-10), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Al Green (TX-09), Josh Harder (CA-09), Pablo Jose Hernandez (PR), James A. Himes (CT-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson Jr. (GA-04), Julie Johnson (TX-32), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), William R. Keating (MA-09), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John B. Larson (CT-01), George Latimer (NY-16), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Mike Levin (CA-49), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), John W. Mannion (NY-22), Doris O. Matsui (CA-07), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DE), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), James P. McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05), Robert Menendez (N-J08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Dave Min (CA-47), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01), Kevin Mullin (CA15), Jerrold Nadler (NY12), Richard E. Neal (MA01), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Johnny Olszewski Jr. (MD-02), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Scott H. Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Stacey E. Plaskett (VI), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Josh Riley (NY-19), Luz M. Rivas (CA-29), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Linda T. Sanchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Janice D. Schakowsky (IL-09), Bradley Schneider (IL-10), Hillary J. Scholten (MI-03), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Bobby Scott (VA-03), David Scott (GA-13), Terri A. Sewell (AL-07), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Darren Soto (FL-09), Melanie A. Stansbury (NM-01), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Haley M. Stevens (MI-11), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Thomas R. Suozzi (NY-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill N. Tokuda (HI-02), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Derek Tran (CA-45), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Marc A. Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07), Eugene Simon Vindman (VA-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), George Whitesides (CA-27), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4839,Houlahan District Office Receives Bomb Threat,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"West Chester District Office 709 E. Gay Street, Suite 4 West Chester, PA 19380 Phone: (610) 883-5050 Open: Monday-Wednesday 9:00am-5:00pm Open by Appointment: Thursday and Friday Sí, se habla español Reading District Office 201 Penn Street, Suite 201 Reading, PA 19601 Phone: (610) 295-0815 Open: Wednesday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Open by Appointment: Monday and Tuesday Sí, se habla español",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-and-bicameral-coalition-reintroduce-disarm-hate-act,Rep. Summer Lee and Bicameral Coalition Reintroduce Disarm Hate Act,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Text of Bill (PDF) WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 21, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Representatives Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), along with Representatives James Clyburn (SC-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), John Garamendi (CA-08), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), David Min (CA-47), and Nikema Williams (GA-06), reintroduced the Disarm Hate Act to prevent individuals convicted of violent misdemeanor hate crimes from purchasing or possessing firearms. The Disarm Hate Act would address the dangerous gap in current federal law by providing that individuals who have been convicted of a misdemeanor-level hate crime, or received an enhanced sentence for a misdemeanor crime after a judicial finding that they acted with hate or bias motivation, are prohibited from buying or possessing guns. “Representing a community still healing from the trauma of the Pittsburgh Synagogue shooting, I see every day the deadly consequences of allowing white supremacists and hate-motivated individuals access to weapons of war,” said Rep. Lee. ""In this moment, when division, bigotry, and political violence are being openly stoked and normalized by the Trump administration, we cannot ignore how that hatred trickles down into our streets, our schools, and our sacred spaces. The Disarm Hate Act is a necessary step to confront the rising tide of anti-Black racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Asian violence, anti-trans hate, and all forms of bigotry threatening our communities. Our families deserve to live without fear, and Congress must act to protect the people we serve.” “Six years ago, a white supremacist drove 10 hours to El Paso intent on slaughtering Mexicans and immigrants in what remains the deadliest attack against Latinos in modern American history,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “The hate directed at Hispanic and immigrant communities continues to this day. When bigotry is combined with easy access to assault weapons, the result is a devastating and lethal threat, and too many communities across the nation, including my own, have lived with these consequences firsthand. As lawmakers, we carry a solemn duty to act and stop as many future tragedies that are a result of gun violence as possible. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing vital legislation to ensure firearms stay out of the hands of those who should never have them.” “Across the country, we have seen hate-fueled attacks claim the lives of far too many in recent years,” said Senator Luján. “Despite the concerning number of hate crimes that have plagued our country, it is horrifying that this loophole allows dangerous individuals to buy or possess a firearm. That is why I’m proud to partner with Congresswoman Escobar to introduce the Disarm Hate Act and help prevent deadly, hate-fueled attacks before they terrorize our communities. We must continue to work to ensure dangerous weapons stay out of the wrong hands, and this legislation is a vital step.” “For years, stories of gun violence tragedies have turned into recurring segments on our news stations. These instances of gun-enabled hate shed darkness on our communities and cost us the lives of children, parents, classmates, teachers, and community members. It’s a pain my district, home to Pulse Nightclub, knows too well and will never forget. The Disarm Hate Act honors the lives stolen from the gun violence epidemic with action and is a step toward stopping the next senseless tragedy before it happens,” said Rep. Frost. “As we tragically witnessed in Charleston, South Carolina at Emanuel AME Church in 2015, and far too often elsewhere, hatred and guns are a lethal mix,” said Rep. Clyburn. “We must do more to keep deadly firearms out of the hands of those seeking to use them to commit these heinous crimes. To that end, earlier this year I reintroduced my legislation to close the Charleston Loophole, and today I am pleased to join Rep. Escobar in reintroducing the Disarm Hate Act. I urge the Republican majority to bring these common-sense bills to the House floor for a vote. Lives are at stake.” “It is unacceptable that someone convicted of a misdemeanor-level hate crime can still purchase a firearm,” said Rep. Garamendi. “As the author of California’s assault weapons ban and a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, I am committed to ending America’s gun violence epidemic. There have been too many hate-fueled shootings over the last decade, and we must refuse to treat them as inevitable. I am proud to work with Rep. Escobar to build a safer future for families across the country.” “Western New York has seen firsthand the devastation that hate-driven gun violence can inflict on a community,” said Rep. Kennedy. “I’m proud to co-lead the Disarm Hate Act because no one convicted of a violent hate crime, either misdemeanor or felony, should have access to a firearm. By closing this loophole, we are combating gun violence, protecting our neighbors, and standing firmly against the rising tide of hate in our nation. This common-sense legislation takes a critical step toward preventing tragedies like the racist mass shooting that shook Buffalo to its core.” “As a country, we’ve mourned tragedy after tragedy as a result of gun violence. It’s appalling that we still have to say this — people convicted of hate crimes should never have access to guns. In 2021, Atlanta witnessed a horrific act of anti-Asian hate when an assailant attacked multiple spas, targeting Asian women. And across the nation, Black communities have long faced deadly violence fueled by racism — from church massacres to everyday acts of terror that rarely make headlines. Our communities are still mending from the trauma, and the effects are still felt to this day. No matter your race, ethnicity, or gender, everyone has the right to live without fear of violence,” said Rep. Nikema Williams. ""Hate becomes even more dangerous when it’s paired with easy access to a gun. We see the impact of that every day in our communities,” said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action. “The Disarm Hate Act is a clear step toward keeping families safe. It closes a gap that lets people with violent hate crime convictions get their hands on a gun, and that puts all of us at risk. We’re proud to stand with Rep. Veronica Escobar and Senator Ben Ray Luján as they work to keep guns out of dangerous hands and protect the communities targeted by hate.” The Disarm Hate Act is endorsed by GIFFORDS, Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Community Justice, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Everytown for Gun Safety, Newtown Action Alliance, Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), Violence Policy Center, Jewish Women International, and Sandy Hook Promise. All original House co-leads represent districts that have been impacted by hate-motivated mass shootings. In June 2015, a white supremacist murdered nine worshippers during a bible study at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. In June 2016, a gunman attacked a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, leaving 49 people dead and 53 others injured. In October 2018, 11 worshippers were killed and seven others injured during an attack on three Jewish congregations in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In August 2019, a man killed 23 victims and wounded 23 others in a shooting in a Walmart in El Paso, Texas, admitting to targeting Mexicans. In March 2021, a gunman killed eight victims on a shooting rampage through three spas in Atlanta, Georgia, six of whom were Asian American women. In February 2022, a gunman with a history of expressing support for Nazis and Proud Boys groups opened fire at a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Portland, Oregon, killing 1 and injuring 5 others. In May 2022, a self-described supporter of white supremacy killed 10 people in a supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood in Buffalo, New York. In May 2022, a Nevada man carried firearms into a Taiwanese Presbyterian Church, shooting and killing one congregant and injuring five others with gunfire in an attempt to kill all 44 parishioners. The man allegedly targeted the church because of the congregants’ national origin and religion. In August 2023, an individual tore down the pride flag in a Southern California store while yelling homophobic slurs. When the store owner confronted the individual, he shot and killed her. The assailant had a history of anti-LGBTQI+ posts on social media, and the incident is now being investigated as a hate crime. Full text of the bill can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-people-s-hearing-in-pittsburgh-to-set-new-agenda-for-change,Rep. Summer Lee Joins People’s Hearing in Pittsburgh To Set New Agenda for Change,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 21, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Pittsburgh leaders and members of communities throughout Pennsylvania and beyond who gathered to testify as part of The People’s Hearing Tour: Speak Easy, Speak Free–a national call for courage, care and collective action. “I’m grateful to bear witness and carry these testimonies back to Congress to inform our work, including in the first-ever People’s Environmental Justice Caucus, in the Environmental Justice for All Act, and beyond,” said Congresswoman Summer Lee. “These legislative actions aim to amplify the voices of those most impacted by environmental racism and injustice–because Washington doesn’t get to decide what’s best for communities.” “It takes collective leadership to build power,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey. “Today, I feel like I’m in a room of peoplethat have influence.” The two-day event, which continues tomorrow at the Omni William Penn, is intended to build community and to forge a new policy agenda for the coming years to ensure the health of current and future generations. Those who testified spoke about coal mines, fracking, radioactive waste, data centers and housing insecurity, documenting trauma, grief and a wide range of health impacts from asthma to chemical burns. “Air pollution is my biggest enemy,” said Natalie Morris with 412 Justice, who testified about dust in the air in her community, and relies on oxygen. “I’m speaking for everyone who has a breathing problem - please help us.” Communities across the country have begun bearing witness to the real impacts of pollution, displacement and economic inequity, while lifting up solutions that heal our health, land and work. The People’s Hearing Tour has already galvanized action in North Carolina and Arizona. “Never let anybody tell you that you don’t exist and that your reality is not reality,” said Dr. Beverly Wright, of the People’s Environmental Justice Advisory Council (PEJAC), who is the founder and executive director of the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice. PEJAC launched the tour together with nonprofit partners, and itself grew out of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council(WHEJAC). “The power of the people is stronger than the people in power,” said Kendra Brooks, Philadelphia City Council At-Large Member, “I feel the need to encourage you that there are elected officials who are willing to show up and hear what you have to say.” Likewise, Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, Allegheny County Council District 8 Representative, told those testifying, “Your voices make a difference,” citing important improvements to the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead and Copper Rule that are helping ensure clean water for communities nationwide. “At this time, more than ever, it is so critically important for you to be talking to each other,” she said. “These are the stories that matter. These are the stories that move policy change.” The hearing continues tomorrow as attendees share more individual experiences, and work together to establish priorities and share environmental justice solutions. For more information on the event or to connect with its leaders or participants, please contact Anne Hawke, annehawke@gmail.com, or at (202) 329-1463.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-helps-secure-43-million-federal-investment-modernize-septa-bus,Boyle Helps Secure $43 Million Federal Investment to Modernize SEPTA Bus Fleet,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"PHILADELPHIA, PA – Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) applauded a $43 million federal grant he helped secure for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). The funding will allow SEPTA to replace aging 30-foot diesel buses with new diesel-electric hybrid vehicles. The grant comes through the Federal Transit Administration’s Low- or No-Emission Program and was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—a law Congressman Boyle championed. This investment will enable SEPTA to retire outdated buses that have exceeded their useful life and upgrade to cleaner, more reliable hybrid models that will improve service for riders across Philadelphia and the region. “This is a major win for Philadelphia,” said Congressman Boyle. “These new hybrid buses will mean more reliable service, a stronger transit system, and cleaner air for the hundreds of thousands of riders who depend on SEPTA every day. I was proud to help champion the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and to help secure this funding that delivers lasting infrastructure improvements for our city.” The grant will support bus replacements across Southeastern Pennsylvania and will help reduce emissions, lower operating costs, and strengthen long-term fleet reliability. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/joint-statement-lawmakers-deluzio-slotkin-kelly-crow-goodlander-and-houlahan,"Joint Statement from Lawmakers Deluzio, Slotkin, Kelly, Crow, Goodlander, and Houlahan",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“We are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. No threat, intimidation, or call for violence will deter us from that sacred obligation. “What’s most telling is that the President considers it punishable by death for us to restate the law. Our servicemembers should know that we have their backs as they fulfill their oath to the Constitution and obligation to follow only lawful orders. It is not only the right thing to do, but also our duty. “But this isn’t about any one of us. This isn’t about politics. This is about who we are as Americans. Every American must unite and condemn the President’s calls for our murder and political violence. This is a time for moral clarity. “In these moments, fear is contagious, but so is courage. We will continue to lead and will not be intimidated. “Don’t Give Up the Ship!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases/members-congress-recognize-national-family-caregivers-month-0,Members of Congress recognize National Family Caregivers Month,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Dwight Evans,E000296,evans.house.gov,evans,https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON (November 20, 2025) – Members of Congress are introducing resolutions in the House and Senate designating November as National Family Caregivers Month to honor the work of the 63 million Americans who provide unpaid, essential family care each year. Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA), lead sponsor of the House resolution, said, “Family caregivers provide unpaid care worth an estimated $600 billion per year and play a vital role in America’s health care system, supporting loved ones who have chronic illnesses or disabilities or are facing age-related health challenges. We should do more to support them.” Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), co-lead sponsor, said, “Family caregivers represent one of the most indispensable yet overlooked pillars of our nation’s health care economy. They shoulder extraordinary responsibility—balancing careers, families, and the daily realities of providing care—with little recognition and even less relief. Our bipartisan resolution is about more than acknowledgment; it’s about accountability. It calls on our colleagues and our partners at every level to champion policies that better support caregivers, strengthen our long-term care infrastructure, and ensure that compassion is matched with commitment.” In just the past five years, the number of family caregivers has grown by 10 million and is projected to continue to increase due to growing populations of older adults and people with disabilities, the long-standing shortage of direct care workers, and the lack of affordable, accessible child care for children with disabilities. The House resolution encourages federal agencies, states, and the private sector to swiftly implement the remaining steps and build upon the current progress of the steps described in the 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. The text of the House resolution is available here. Endorsing organizations include the National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP, National Council on Aging, and Caring Across Generations. Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Susan Collins (R-ME) are introducing a similar resolution in the Senate.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4838,"Joint Statement from Lawmakers Slotkin, Kelly, Crow, Deluzio, Goodlander, and Houlahan",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Representatives Jason Crow (D-CO-06), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-02), and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) released the following joint statement: “We are veterans and national security professionals who love this country and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. No threat, intimidation, or call for violence will deter us from that sacred obligation."" “What’s most telling is that the President considers it punishable by death for us to restate the law. Our servicemembers should know that we have their backs as they fulfill their oath to the Constitution and obligation to follow only lawful orders. It is not only the right thing to do, but also our duty."" “But this isn’t about any one of us. This isn’t about politics. This is about who we are as Americans. Every American must unite and condemn the President’s calls for our murder and political violence. This is a time for moral clarity."" “In these moments, fear is contagious, but so is courage. We will continue to lead and will not be intimidated."" “Don’t Give Up the Ship!” --end--",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-sen-ed-markey-lead-effort-demanding-answers-from-trump-admin-s-failure-to-protect-workers-from-coercive-employer-driven-debt,"Rep. Summer Lee, Sen. Ed Markey Lead Effort Demanding Answers From Trump Admin’s Failure to Protect Workers from Coercive Employer-Driven Debt",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Text of Letters (PDF) WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 20, 2025 — Following a series of anti-worker actions taken by the Trump Administration, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) today sent a series of bicameral letters to the leaders of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) demanding answers about the administration’s rollback of protections from coercive employment agreements, including training repayment agreement provisions (TRAPs). The bicameral letters were signed by 44 additional members of the House and Senate and mark the first time Congress has engaged in an oversight probe into the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle worker protections intended to address the growing use of coercive employer-driven debt agreements like TRAPs. TRAPs have become increasingly prevalent across the United States, with serious consequences for workers. A 2024 study found that 1-in-12 workers in the U.S. are subject to a TRAP, with the percentage growing from 4.1 percent in 2014 to 8.7 percent in 2020. TRAPs are a type of “stay-or-pay” contract scheme that shifts the financial responsibility for training, equipment, and even alleged lost profits onto workers if a worker exits their job before a date set by the employer that can range from months to years. These contracts have been used to hold employees responsible for up to $75,000, and in some instances, exceeds the amount in which a worker was ever compensated. ""This anti-worker administration has made it clear: the interests of corporations are more important than the wellbeing and economic security of working people,” said Congresswoman Lee. ""These federal rollbacks on protections are draining the pockets of folks who are already bearing the brunt of our cost-of-living crisis and putting their money in the hands of the wealthy. This must be stopped. I’m proud to partner with Senator Markey and our colleagues to hold these bad actors to account."" “TRAPs are yet another plot from greedy CEO billionaires to pad their own pockets off the backs of workers. These dangerous schemes rob workers of the fundamental dignity of freedom to leave their jobs if a workplace is unsafe, if they are being sexually harassed, or if they need to take care of themselves or their family,” said Senator Markey. “By seemingly dropping their enforcement efforts, the Trump administration is yet again prioritizing corporate profits over American workers.” “The law is simple: employers are required to pay employees for their work, not the other way around. The growing trend of employers demanding departing workers pay thousands of dollars as a penalty for doing so is just as outrageous as it is illegal. The Trump Administration's rollback of these vital worker protections is a giveaway to massive corporations and bad bosses across the country,” said Mike Pierce, executive director of Protect Borrowers. “Protect Borrowers applauds Congresswoman Lee and Senator Markey for leading this effort to hold MAGA regulators to account and protect workers.” In the letters, Lee and Markey say that across the Trump Administration, “federal regulators and enforcement officials have retreated from a comprehensive, government-wide effort to protect workers from these predatory contracts.” For instance, the letters note that the announcement of a multistate settlement announced in July 2025 with HCA Healthcare disclosed for the first time that the investigation was conducted jointly with the CFPB during the Biden Administration; however, the CFPB was not part of the settlement announced earlier this year, raising concerns that the agency “may no longer be prioritizing its role in constraining employers’ use of debt to exploit workers.” The letters also note that the DOL has been silent on TRAPs since the start of the Trump administration, after years of shining a spotlight on coercive training agreements; similarly, the Trump-led NLRB rescinded key guidance outlining how regional agency offices should approach such agreements. The FTC under Trump has also refused to defend a landmark and broadly popular rule banning noncompete agreements, which are contractual clauses that prevent workers from working for competitors of the employer. These anti-worker, anticompetitive practices–which are common in industries such as tech and healthcare but have even been utilized at Jimmy Johns sandwich shops and PetSmart pet grooming centers–can prevent Americans from getting better, higher-paying jobs. The letters to the agency heads request answers to numerous questions related to protecting workers from anticompetitive coercive TRAPs, including: a) the number of investigations or lawsuits related to employer-driven debt or training-related repayment obligations that the CFPB has closed; b) the number of cases regarding stay-or-pay contracts, including TRAPs, that the DOL has withdrawn or settled, as well as a public status update regarding the terms of DOL’s settlement with IT staffing company Smoothstack; c) an explanation of how the FTC’s new approach to one-off enforcement actions will provide a meaningful substitute for the agency’s market-wide non-compete rule; and, d) an explanation of NLRB’s approach to handling complaints involving stay-or-pay contracts, such as TRAPs. The letters request a response from each agency by December 19, 2025. In addition to Rep. Lee and Senator Markey, the letters are cosigned by Representatives Alma Adams, Gabe Amo, Becca Balint, André Carson, Greg Casar, Danny Davis, Chris Deluzio, Mark DeSaulnier, Dwight Evans, Laura Friedman, Maxwell Frost, Sylvia Garcia, Jimmy Gomez, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Val Hoyle, Jonathan Jackson, Pramila Jayapal, Henry “Hank” Johnson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ted Lieu, Seth Magaziner, James McGovern, Jerrold Nadler, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Mark Pocan, Ayanna Pressley, Delia Ramirez, Jamie Raskin, Bobby Scott, Lateefah Simon, Thomas Suozzi, Rashida Tlaib, and Nydia Velázquez and Senators Richard Blumenthal, Ruben Gallego, Kirsten Gillibrand, Mazie Hirono, Alex Padilla, Jack Reed, Bernie Sanders, Chris Van Hollen , Elizabeth Warren, and Sheldon Whitehouse. The letters are endorsed by Protect Borrowers, National Nurses United (NNU), Consumer Federation of America, Towards Justice, National Employment Law Project (NELP), P Street, Open Markets Institute (OMI), Economic Security Project Action, American Federation of Teachers (AFT), American Economic Liberties Project, and Service Employees International Union (SEIU). A copy of the letters can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-demand-trump-administration-to-stop-stalling-toxic-chemical-cleanups-protect-military-families-and-nearby-communities/,"Fetterman, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration to Stop Stalling Toxic Chemical Cleanups, Protect Military Families and Nearby Communities",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,PA,John Fetterman,F000479,www.fetterman.senate.gov,fetterman,https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/,scraper,"Trump Administration Delaying Toxic PFAS Chemical Cleanup at Approximately 150 Military Installations, Putting Remediation Efforts on Hold for Nearly a Decade in Some Cases WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined 27 Senate Democratic colleagues in demanding the Trump administration reverse its decision to delay the cleanup of toxic chemicals at military installations across the country and take action to protect military families and nearby communities by addressing contamination at the affected sites. In a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the senators called on the Trump administration to immediately restore the previous timetable for remediating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at U.S. military bases and to reverse plans that would further delay long-overdue cleanups. “For years, communities contaminated by PFAS from nearby DOD installations in our states have waited for the DOD to take action. We request that the Department reverse its decision, return to the previous timetable released in December 2024, and accelerate efforts to remediate confirmed PFAS contamination,” the senators wrote. At least 700 military sites in the United States are known or suspected to have PFAS contamination from Department of Defense (DOD) activities. DOD’s delayed timetable would postpone cleanup efforts at approximately 150 of them, in some cases for nearly a decade. Specifically, DOD pushed back the time frame of the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) phase for these bases, which involves collecting detailed information on the nature and extent of the PFAS contamination and conducting a study to evaluate potential options for cleanup. PFAS chemicals are widespread contaminants found in many industrial applications and especially around U.S. military installations. PFAS exposure is linked to an array of health problems, including various cancers, reduced immune function, reproductive challenges, birth defects, thyroid issues, and more. The use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam at DOD facilities, and the subsequent stormwater runoff, is a significant source of drinking water pollution. This contamination poses serious health risks to service members and their families, as well as surrounding communities. Senator Fetterman was joined on the letter by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the senators’ letter to Secretary Hegseth can be found here. A full list of military installations affected by the delays can be found here. A list of the military installations in Pennsylvania affected by the delays can be found below:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z http://houlahan.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=4820,Join my 104th Town Hall,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/news/rss.aspx,scraper,"West Chester District Office 709 E. Gay Street, Suite 4 West Chester, PA 19380 Phone: (610) 883-5050 Open: Monday-Wednesday 9:00am-5:00pm Open by Appointment: Thursday and Friday Sí, se habla español Reading District Office 201 Penn Street, Suite 201 Reading, PA 19601 Phone: (610) 295-0815 Open: Wednesday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Open by Appointment: Monday and Tuesday Sí, se habla español",1,2026-05-07T13:38:59Z,2026-05-07T13:40:28Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-ranked-most-effective-democratic-house-member-macroeconomic,Boyle Ranked Most Effective Democratic House Member on Macroeconomic Policy,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL) has released its new Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores (ILES) for the 118th Congress, finding that Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, is the most effective Democratic lawmaker in the U.S. House on macroeconomic policy. This latest recognition follows CEL’s earlier finding that Congressman Boyle is Pennsylvania’s “Most Effective” Democratic member of Congress, underscoring his leadership on budget, tax, and broader economic policy. “I came to Congress to deliver real results for working families,” said Congressman Boyle. “I’m honored by this recognition from the Center for Effective Lawmaking, and I’ll keep fighting to protect health care, lower costs, and build an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy and well-connected.” CEL’s issue-area scores evaluate how many bills each lawmaker introduces in a given policy area, how far those bills advance through the legislative process, and the substantive importance of those proposals. CEL has published an executive summary of the new ILES rankings as well as an updated searchable database with detailed scores for all members of Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-announces-12-million-new-recreation-center-water-treatment,"Congressman Deluzio Announces $1.2 Million for New Recreation Center, Water Treatment System",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that two of his requested community projects successfully received more than $1.2 million in federal funding. The Ambridge Borough Recreational Center in Beaver County will receive $1,015,000, and $200,000 will help finance Tarentum’s water treatment plant and pump house upgrades in the A-K Valley. The funding was approved on November 12, 2025. ""A key part of my job fighting for Western PA is bringing back federal funding. I’ll work with anyone down in Washington and back here at home to make that happen,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’m proud that this federal funding will help bring better recreation spaces to Ambridge and a stronger water system to Tarentum.” Congressman Deluzio helped secure $1,015,000 in federal funding for the Ambridge Borough Recreational Center, which will repurpose a former steel mill brownfield site into a regional asset that will promote economic development and provide recreation opportunities for surrounding communities. The facility plans include basketball, pickleball, and volleyball courts; batting cages; basketball shooting machines; a mini shooting gallery for volleyball, futsal, and basketball; a turf field; and multipurpose fields. It will also host sports tournaments and other services like health screenings, educational programs, and job training programs. Deluzio also helped secure $200,000 in federal funding for the Tarentum Water treatment plant and pump house upgrade project, which will support critical mechanical and electrical upgrades at the municipal water plant. This project modernizes the main pump house by installing smart variable-speed pumps to improve energy efficiency and flow control, replacing aging water lines to ensure reliability and reduce water loss, and upgrading outdated electrical systems to meet current safety and operational standards. These improvements will help improve service delivery to residents and will strengthen long-term infrastructure resilience. Congressman Deluzio will continue to push to fund his other 2026 requested community projects. His office has already brought home more than $4.6 billion in federal funds, and he will keep up the fight to bring home resources to Western Pennsylvania. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/monopoly-busters-caucus-chairs-call-meta-monopoly-decision-dead-wrong-and,Monopoly Busters Caucus Chairs Call Meta Monopoly Decision ‘Dead Wrong and Dangerous’,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Today’s ruling letting Meta off the hook is dead wrong and dangerous. It's a judicial rubber stamp for unchecked monopoly power. Meta didn’t succeed by building the best social media network, it bought or buried every serious rival and then exploited its monopoly without accountability. “The results speak for themselves. Repeated privacy disasters. The theft of millions of people’s data for political manipulation. Algorithms that worsen teenage mental health and amplify hate. Constant ads served based on surveillance of people’s lives and friendships. Terrible for America but very profitable for Meta. “Real competition isn’t just another app on your phone. It’s the freedom to delete without getting shut out of the conversation. This decision proves our antitrust laws are stuck in a pre-internet age. An appeal is the bare minimum. We need to modernize the law before a single company controls both today’s conversations and tomorrow’s minds.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-members-congress-launch-federal-push-fund-ohio-river-restoration,Bipartisan Members of Congress Launch Federal Push to Fund Ohio River Restoration,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) led introduction of the Ohio River Restoration Program Act with Reps. Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Erin Houchin (IN-09), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Mike Rulli (OH-06), and Mark Messmer (IN-08) to fund the economic and environmental restoration of the Ohio River. The bipartisan coalition of Members represents districts throughout the Ohio River Basin, which spans 55 congressional districts across 15 states. The Ohio serves as a source of drinking water for more than 25 million Americans, and its ecosystem is vital to local economies and industries, generating more than 500,000 jobs and $21 billion in wages. Nationwide, more than a third of the United States’ waterborne commerce travels through the Ohio River – $43 billion in commodities annually – yet the Ohio River is still the nation’s largest body of water without any dedicated federal funding. The bill would dedicate up to $350 million in federal investments to the large-scale restoration of the Ohio River Basin, using initiatives similar to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which resulted in more than $3 in return on every federal dollar invested in the program. “The Ohio River is a lifeline for so many communities in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District,” said Rep. Deluzio. “From drinking water, to commerce and recreation, and more—our prosperity relies on a clean and healthy Ohio River. There’s a lot of good work happening to help improve the resilience and livability of our river—but not a lot of funding to get things done. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Ohio River Restoration Program Act to dedicate resources to help protect and restore the Ohio River for generations to come.” “The Ohio River is an economic engine that powers industries and supports billions in nationwide commerce, but at home in the River City, it’s our lifeblood – it’s the water we drink, it’s the way we make a living, it’s a place to keep traditions alive and find community with our neighbors,” said Congressman McGarvey. “And yet, our local communities who rely on it most and have helped sustain this vital resource for years still haven't gotten a dime in dedicated federal funding to properly protect and restore this critical resource right in our backyard. The Ohio River has been overlooked for far too long, and it’s time for it to get the attention and investment it deserves.” “The Ohio River is critical to our way of life in Southern Indiana,” said Rep. Houchin. “It strengthens our economy, supports our farmers and manufacturers, and provides drinking water for millions of families. Communities along the Ohio have invested in protecting this resource for generations, and it is time for the federal government to become a real partner in those efforts. I am proud to coauthor this bipartisan bill that will help restore the river, protect public health, and strengthen the economic future of the entire region.” “My district is home to both the Lake Erie and Ohio River watersheds. We know how vital clean water is for our communities, our economy, and our health,” said Rep. Sykes. “I’m proud to co-lead the Ohio River Restoration Program Act, which will provide resources to restore water infrastructure while protecting the environment. This legislation ensures the Ohio River remains a thriving resource for generations to come.” “I am proud to co-lead this vital legislation and thank Rep. McGarvey for introducing it,” said Rep. Rulli. “For generations, the Ohio River has served as the backbone of Ohio’s 6th Congressional District and an economic lifeline for our nation, playing a crucial role in settling America and building us into an economic powerhouse. This restoration program is a smart investment that will restore abundant fish and wildlife while keeping the river clean and healthy for future generations.” ""The Ohio River Basin is essential to not only the health of thousands of Hoosier residents, but to the vitality of southern Indiana's agricultural and industrial communities,” said Rep. Messmer. “The conservation network in Indiana's 8th Congressional District has worked tirelessly to preserve access to recreation within the basin and reinforce existing ecosystems. I am proud to bolster their investments in one of America's most impactful watersheds by supporting the Ohio River Basin Restoration Program Act."" The Ohio River Restoration Program Act would create a federal office within the Environmental Protection Agency to guide a restoration plan in coordination with states, local governments, interstate compact agencies, tribal nations, and non-governmental organizations that includes: habitat restoration, farm conservation, and invasive species control and management; pollution prevention and clean water protection; robust monitoring, data collection, and evaluation; local workforce development and training for jobs in water protection and restoration; input from the local public to hold elected officials accountable and ensure that residents have a seat at the table in restoration decisions; guaranteed clean, safe, and affordable water for local homeowners regardless of economic status; and investments in local communities at particular risk of extreme storms, flooding, and pollution. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4836,Houlahan Votes to Release the Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) voted in favor of releasing the Epstein files. The motion passed 427 to one. “Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s child sex-trafficking crime ring have waited far too long for transparency and accountability,” said Rep. Houlahan. “They deserve the truth, and we all deserve a justice system that doesn’t shield the powerful and well-connected.” --end--",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4837,Houlahan and House Colleagues Introduce the Biomanufacturing Excellence Act,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Today, U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan and House colleagues Jim Baird (R-Ind.), David Rouzer (R-N.C.), and Deborah Ross (D-N.C.) introduced the Biomanufacturing Excellence Act, which would promote U.S. leadership in biotechnology and strengthen domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Companion legislation is being led in the U.S. Senate by Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Ted Budd (R-N.C.) Biotechnology will shape how the United States defends itself, secures its food supply, and cures life-threatening diseases. The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) warned that without rapid and significant investment, the U.S. will fall behind its global competitors, specifically China. China’s share of global pharmaceutical output has surged from about 5% in 2002 to nearly 25% in 2019. This legislation reinvests in domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing, reducing dependence on unreliable foreign supply chains, expanding access to cutting-edge medicines, and supporting high-quality American jobs. The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act would establish a public-private center dedicated to advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing – a key recommendation from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) report. Specifically, the National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence would: Unite industry professionals with academic researchers to conduct collaborative research on new technology for scaling biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Host a facility that replicates industrial manufacturing conditions and complies with FDA Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations, where innovators would develop and test new manufacturing processes. Identify challenges and opportunities for scaling biopharmaceutical manufacturing, especially for products important to U.S. national security, public health, and economic security. Train tomorrow’s biopharmaceutical manufacturing workforce by partnering with educational, industry, and community leaders to bolster biotechnology talent. ""Southeastern Pennsylvania has a storied history as a global leader in the life sciences. Yet too many of our breakthroughs struggle to reach patients and markets because we lack the biomanufacturing capacity to scale and commercialize them. That gap threatens jobs, our regional competitiveness, and our access to medicines, applications, solutions and treatments Americans and our nation need. Our bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act tackles this head-on by creating a national Center of Excellence to drive innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The bill would cut costs, speed production, and grow our biotech workforce here in our Commonwealth. As competitors like the Chinese Communist Party race to dominate this space, we cannot afford to fall behind,” said Representative Chrissy Houlahan. “A strong domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing industry is vital to developing innovative treatments to cure and manage diseases, improving public health, and securing our supply chains,” said Congressman Baird. “Communist China has been closing the innovation gap with the U.S., creating an urgent need for strengthening our domestic biomanufacturing capabilities. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Houlahan on this bipartisan legislation to reduce our reliance on an adversary for life-saving treatments, encourage innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, and ensure our country continues to lead the world in finding groundbreaking cures.” “Biotechnology is rapidly reshaping national defense, health security, and our economy’s resilience. As home to one of the strongest biotech and biomanufacturing ecosystems in the country, North Carolina has demonstrated how innovation can strengthen America’s ability to develop and produce life-saving medicines,” said Congressman Rouzer. “The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act reaffirms our commitment to expanding that capacity here at home. By supporting public-private collaboration and growing our domestic manufacturing base, this legislation ensures the United States can remain competitive, reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, and equip the next generation of biotechnology leaders to drive our nation forward.” “North Carolina is a national leader in biotechnology and innovation,” said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. “Our state is home to world-class researchers and companies, who are changing the future of medicine and stand ready to spearhead our country’s leadership in biomanufacturing. Investing in innovation here at home will strengthen our supply chains, make our communities more secure, bolster our economy, and help save lives. I’m proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in introducing this important legislation that will invest in the future of medicine.” “Delaware and innovation have always gone hand in hand,” said Senator Coons. “The extraordinary biomedical research that happens in the First State has grown our economy, turned start-ups into industry leaders, and saved lives around the world. China is surging ahead in biotechnology, putting our national security, economy, and health at risk. This bipartisan bill will ensure the United States continues to lead the world in biotech manufacturing, protecting Americans’ security and our health.” “Not only is biomanufacturing a key pillar of America's and North Carolina’s innovation economy, it has the potential to transform major aspects of everyday life. We must foster this critical technology and continue to lead the world in enabling life-saving medical breakthroughs, fortifying our critical supply chains, and creating good-paying, high-skilled jobs. I am proud to partner with Senator Coons to help build on the public-private partnerships that have unlocked significant economic potential and unleashed next-generation technology,” said Senator Budd. The bill is endorsed by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), the Delaware BioScience Association, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), NCLifeSci and NCBiotech, Life Sciences Pennsylvania, and the American Alliance for Biomanufacturing. ""I am grateful to our congressional partners for their strong commitment to the future of U.S. biotechnology leadership and their introduction of this important legislation,” said NSCEB Vice Chair Michelle Rozo. “In our report, we found that advancing innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector is essential to catalyzing full-scale production for new medicines in the United States, and this center would bring together industry, academia, and government to do just that. Through our Biotech Across America roadshow, I’ve had the opportunity to personally visit biotech hubs around the country to see the impact this type of cutting-edge biomanufacturing innovation can have on U.S. national, health, and economic security.” “The United States must remain the global leader in biopharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing to safeguard our nation’s health, economic vitality and national security. The National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence will help drive this mission forward by aligning industry, academia and workforce partners to test new technologies under real manufacturing conditions and train skilled professionals for great careers – ultimately accelerating innovation, lowering costs and getting more life-changing therapies to patients faster,” said Michael Fleming, President and CEO, Delaware BioScience Association. “ITIF supports the bipartisan Biomanufacturing Excellence Act, which would create a National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence that would convene industry, academic, and government stakeholders to ensure that America leads in the biomanufacturing revolution of the future. With experts estimating that 60 percent of the world’s physical inputs could be made using biological processes going forward, biomanufacturing won’t just transform the future of medicines, but also everything from energy, to food, to industrial manufacturing. The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act will help equip the United States with the technology, workforce, and knowhow to achieve leadership in this critical emerging field,”a statement from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) reads. “The creation of a National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence is pivotal to advancing US leadership in bioprocess innovation, supply chain resiliency, and workforce competitiveness. We greatly appreciate Congressional leadership in recognizing the importance of biomanufacturing to national and economic security. For over four decades, North Carolina has created an integrated ecosystem focused on a steadfast commitment to life sciences manufacturing, establishing the state as a global leader with over $17 Billion of investment and 7,500 jobs announced since 2021. This success is built on a community of partners that work to seamlessly integrate world-class institutions of innovation with over 150 life sciences manufacturing companies, forming a uniquely dense hub for accelerating the translation of cutting-edge biomanufacturing innovations to scaled commercial outputs,” a joint statement from NCLifeSci and NCBiotech reads. “We are living in an extraordinary era for biotechnology—one where innovation, data-driven insights, and public-private partnerships are transforming what’s possible for patients. Maintaining U.S. leadership in this sector is critical for our economic and national security. The Biotechnology Innovation Organization applauds Senators Chris Coons and Ted Budd, and Representatives Chrissy Houlahan, David Rouzer, Deborah Ross, and Jim Baird for introducing legislation that will help grow and expand the biotechnology sector to more communities across the country and better position the U.S. to develop and manufacture the next generation of medical advances,” said the Biotechnology Innovation Organization. ""Pennsylvania's collaborative life sciences ecosystem has made our commonwealth a national leader in biopharmaceutical manufacturing for decades. We recognize the importance of the bipartisan and bicameral Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Center of Excellence Act. This legislation will help incentivize and protect national security as well as ensure a steadfast supply chain in delivering treatments and therapeutics in Pennsylvania, across the Country, and around the world,”said Christopher P. Molineaux, President and CEO of Life Sciences PA. “The Biomanufacturing Excellence Act is a decisive investment in America’s health, security, and economic strength. The American Alliance for Biomanufacturing is proud to support this effort to bring cutting-edge biomanufacturing back home,”said Brooke Coleman, Executive Director, American Alliance for Biomanufacturing. # # # The full text of the bill is available here.",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4843,Congress Passes Bill to Simplify Air Travel for Parents with Breast Milk,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Eric Swalwell (D-CA) announced that the House of Representatives passed the Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act unanimously on November 17, a bipartisan victory that will make air travel safer, more consistent, and more humane for parents traveling with breast milk, formula, and feeding equipment. The bill will now go to the President to be signed into law. The BABES Act is co-led in the House by U.S. Representatives Maria Salazar (R-FL), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), and Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL). U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) introduced companion legislation in the Senate, co-led by Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI). The legislation requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to strengthen and streamline its screening protocols for breast milk, formula, and related feeding equipment. These improvements will ensure parents can navigate airport security without unnecessary delays, confusion, or the risk of damaging essential nutrition products. “As a husband and father, I know how overwhelming traveling with a newborn can be. Having a baby in your arms is already a challenge and the last thing mothers should worry about is whether their breast milk or formula will be mishandled at the checkpoint,” said Congressman Swalwell. “This is a huge win for traveling mothers. The BABES Act ensures TSA officers receive proper training and follow robust hygienic standards so parents can travel with confidence. This is about giving families peace of mind and making sure babies have the nutrition they need. I’m proud this bill passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support.” “I am proud to co-lead this much-needed law to protect families and the essential breastmilk, formula and baby food their children depend on,"" said Congresswoman Salazar. ""For years, I’ve heard heartbreaking stories of parents and breastfeeding mothers facing inconsistent policies at airport checkpoints, because of the absence of clear TSA standards. That's wrong, and the government should never stand between parents and their child's nourishment while traveling. This bill guarantees clear rules, proper training, and full transparency so parents can travel knowing their baby food will be protected, not mishandled or thrown away.” “As a mom, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to travel when you are breastfeeding or worried about how to feed your child,” said Congresswoman Pettersen. “Like so many moms, I've experienced the frustration of having to throw out milk or pumping supplies, despite them being TSA-approved. Outdated regulations or lack of training shouldn’t add to an already stressful situation. We need clear policies about how TSA handles breast milk, baby formula, and pumping supplies so parents can travel without worrying that they will be confiscated, contaminated or mishandled. I’m glad to see it pass in the House with bipartisan support, a commonsense step to support families and keep our kids safe and healthy.” “As a mother, I understand how stressful traveling with a young child can already be,” said Congresswoman Luna. “Parents should not have to worry about whether TSA will mishandle breast milk or formula. The BABES Act brings needed consistency, hygiene, and common sense to these screenings so families can travel with confidence. I am glad to join my colleagues in advancing this bipartisan, pro-family legislation.” “After pushing for this for years, I’m proud that Congress passed this long-overdue legislation to make it easier for new moms to travel with their breast milk and the breastfeeding equipment they need to pump and feed their babies,” said Senator Duckworth. “Our bipartisan legislation will ensure the TSA keeps its employees up to speed on their own policies and updates those policies as necessary. It’s the least we can do to help parents travel through airports with the dignity and respect they deserve.” Background & Need for the Legislation Unsanitary screenings of breast milk and formula put infants at risk. Lactating parents must breastfeed or pump every few hours to avoid complications like clogged ducts or mastitis. Clear standards and consistent TSA training are essential to keeping families safe. The BABES Act will require TSA to: Develop clear, updated guidelines for screening breast milk, formula, and feeding equipment in consultation with nationally recognized maternal health organizations; Ensure TSA officers receive enhanced and consistent training on these procedures; Improve communication with parents about their rights at security checkpoints; Update its guidance every five years to reflect changing needs and technology. The bill also directs an independent government watchdog to audit TSA’s compliance with these policies to ensure accountability and prevent improper handling, like the incident experienced by Emily Calandrelli, host of Emily’s Wonder Lab, whose story helped inspire this legislation. The BABES Enhancement Act is endorsed by March of Dimes, the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, MomsRising, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine. It is also cosponsored by Reps. André Carson (D-IN), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Julie Johnson (D-TX), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA), Luis Correa (D-CA), Nellie Pou (D-NJ), George Latimer (D-NY), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Lauren Underwood (D-IL), and Josh Gotteimer (D-NJ). ###",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://scanlon.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1977,Scanlon Presses Social Security Administration Regarding Rule Changes Threatening Ability of Supplemental Security Income Recipients to Live With Family,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Mary Gay Scanlon,S001205,scanlon.house.gov,scanlon,https://scanlon.house.gov/news/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) and Rep. Danny Davis (IL-07), Ranking Member of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, today led 73 House Democrats in raising objections to Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano regarding a proposed change that would limit eligibility for disabled adults and children receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. “Almost 8 million Americans rely on SSI to afford basic necessities like food and shelter – all of these SSI recipients are older Americans, people with disabilities, or children. Given the vulnerability of those relying on SSI benefits, we must take care to do no harm,” the members wrote. “Cutting these benefits – especially at a time of rapid inflation and a rising cost-of-living – threatens to inflict extreme hardship and immediate poverty on thousands of individuals and families.” The 2024 rule recognized that low-income and disabled individuals often rely on family or community members for assistance by expanding the definition of what was considered a “public assistance household.” The final rule also removed barriers that unnecessarily penalized individuals for receiving familial support. Further, by simplifying the SSI application, the final rule simultaneously helped seniors and people with disabilities, as well as improved the efficiency of SSI processing. As a result, almost 400,000 additional struggling households qualified for SSI or received increased benefits. The proposed change could cause hundreds of thousands of SSI recipients, including disabled adults and children, to have their benefits cut or lose eligibility entirely. “Families would be discouraged from offering help to their loved ones for fear of jeopardizing their benefits. Seniors, persons with disabilities, and children deserve to live at home with family who love them. The proposed change shamefully threatens already-struggling families with the impossible choice of loss of disability benefits versus homelessness or institutionalization. Cutting this essential support will tear families apart by penalizing SSI recipients for staying with their loved ones,” the members continued. “The SSA has claimed that reversing this rule will 'promote program integrity,' but it has failed to provide any information on the expected impact of this policy or any numbers on how much these cuts would actually save,” the members concluded. The members requested the following information regarding this rule change: Please provide any documents or analysis estimating the number of households that will see their benefits cut as a result of this rule change. How many individuals are estimated to live in these households? How many of these individuals are disabled? How many of these individuals are seniors? How many of these individuals are terminally ill? How many of these individuals are children? How many of these individuals are children with severe disabilities? How many of these individuals have no other source of income? What is the average benefit cut under this rule reversal? How many individuals will lose their health insurance as a result of this policy? What is the total estimated “savings” from this rule change? How are these “savings” determined? Do these savings include additional administrative costs incurred by SSA as a result of the rule change? What will be the administrative costs that SSA incurs as a result of this rule change? Has your agency calculated the potential extraneous costs associated with cutting or eliminating these benefits, including but not limited to, increased burden on foster care systems, hospitals, policing, food and housing shelters, etc.? What are these costs? Did the Administration consult experts, medical professionals or families who will be affected by the policy prior to announcement? Please provide details of those consultations. How much will this policy increase workloads for SSA staff at local offices? Please provide specific details on the impact this policy will have on waiting times for appointments and claims processing. Please describe SSA's plans to implement the rule change, including drafting clear notices, staffing benefits reviews, and handling telephone and field office inquiries. Please provide historical data from 1980 forward on SSI recipients living in public income maintenance (PIM) households, both in raw numbers and as a percentage of SSI enrollment. Please provide data on how many public assistance households currently rely on each of the following programs/payments: TANF Refugee Act need payments Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act General assistance programs of the Bureau of Indian Affairs State or local government assistance programs based on need Department of Veterans Affairs programs (payments based on need). Please provide any additional information about the budgetary and human impacts of these changes that your agency took into account when designing these proposed changes. The letter is endorsed by Democratic Women’s Caucus and co-signed by Reps. John Larson (CT-01), Don Beyer (VA-08), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Judy Chu (CA-28), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), Linda Sanchez (CA-39), Bradley Schneider (IL-10), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Thomas Suozzi (NY-03), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Andre Carson (IN-07), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Al Green (TX-09), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Betty McCollum (MI-04), James McGovern (MA-02), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Grace Meng (NY-06), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Norton-Holmes (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Emily Randall (WA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon(CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Dina Titus (NV-03), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia Velazquez (NY-12), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Bonnie Watson-Coleman (NJ-12), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24). Find full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-condemns-trump-administration-s-move-to-dismantle-department-of-education,Rep. Summer Lee Condemns Trump Administration’s Move to Dismantle Department of Education,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 18, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement in response to the Trump Administrationdismantling major components of the U.S. Department of Education through interagency agreements: “The Trump Administration’s latest effort toward dismantling the Department of Education is a direct assault on the students, families, and educators who depend on its essential protections. Even Education Secretary Linda McMahon has acknowledged that only Congress has the authority to eliminate the Department. Trump and his administration understand the harm this will inflict on classrooms across the country, but they simply do not care. Cruelty is the point for them, and we’ve said it again and again because this administration does little else but sow chaos and hurt the most vulnerable. Our children deserve better than political stunts that jeopardize their futures. And let’s be clear: an uneducated electorate isn’t a by-product of authoritarianism — it’s a prerequisite for it. We will fight back.” Throughout her time in Congress, Congresswoman Summer Lee has been afierce advocate for strengthening and defending public education, fighting to ensure every child has access to safe,well-resourced schools and the opportunities they deserve. She has consistentlypushed for investment in public schools, greater support for teachers and staff, and protections for the civil rights of students—particularly those from marginalized and underserved communities. Lee has been vocal against efforts to privatize orundermine public education and has championed policies that expand access to early childhood education, affordable higher education, and student debt relief.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-launches-investigation-into-doj-for-dropping-corporate-criminal-cases-with-trump-connections,Rep. Summer Lee Launches Investigation into DOJ for Dropping Corporate Criminal Cases with Trump Connections,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Text of Letter (PDF) WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 18, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement, launched an investigation into the Department of Justice (DOJ) for its concerning failure to fully prosecute large corporations that have violated the law. Reports indicate that major donors to Trump have been given leniency under this administration. The investigation comes as a criminal charge against Boeing—which donated $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund—was dropped. The corporation was facing prosecution for the two fatal 737 MAX plane crashes that killed 346 people. In a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, Rep. Lee demanded information and documents concerning corporate criminal enforcement and rationales for each case that has been declined, paused, or resolved through prosecution or non-prosecution agreements. An investigation by Public Citizen found that 30 corporations that faced federal investigations by DOJ collectively gave $29.5 million to President Trump’s inauguration fund. “The Department of Justice (DOJ) has an obligation to uphold the laws of this country. No person or corporation should be above the law, regardless of how many resources or how much money they may have. Yet DOJ has increasingly failed to fully prosecute large corporations,” wrote Rep. Lee. “When corporations break the law and exploit the American people, they must be held to account. It is your duty as attorney general to uphold the laws of this country, regardless of who committed the wrongdoing and how much support they have given to the Trump Administration.” Rep. Lee is requesting the DOJ provide the following information and documents by no later than December 2, 2025: All memoranda, directives, guidance, communications, or other materials created, transmitted, or received by DOJ from January 20, 2025, to the present concerning the use of deferred prosecution agreements and non-prosecution agreements under corporate criminal enforcement; All memoranda, directives, guidance, communications, or other materials created, transmitted, or received by DOJ from January 20, 2025, to the present concerning declinations under corporate criminal enforcement; All communications created, transmitted, or received by DOJ from January 20, 2025, to the present from the Executive Office of the President regarding pending criminal cases against corporations; Records of complaints or objections received by DOJ from alleged victims in the corporate criminal cases that have been declined, paused, or resolved through prosecution agreements or non-prosecution agreements since January 20, 2025; A detailed list and comprehensive explanation of DOJ’s rationale for each of the corporate criminal cases that have been declined, paused, or received prosecution agreements or non-prosecution agreements since January 20, 2025; and A detailed and comprehensive list of any and all oversight mechanisms that are currently in place to ensure that there are no conflicts of interest or quid pro quo agreements between President Trump, members of his family, the Trump Organization, and the corporations facing investigation or prosecution. Full letter text is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-statement-on-vote-to-release-epstein-files,Rep. Summer Lee Statement on Vote to Release Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DOJ Still Legally Compelled to Release Files after Rep. Lee Forced Motion to Subpoena in July WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 18, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) released the following statement in response to the passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act in the House of Representatives: “Today’s passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act puts every Representative on record and brings us one step further to providing justice and transparency for the survivors and the American people. It is a testament to the power of the people who pressured their government to take action. “Let’s not forget: The Department of Justice is already compelled to release the Epstein files to the Oversight Committee because of my motion to subpoena, and they have slow-walked their release for months. Trump also has the power to compel the DOJ to release the files immediately and has failed to do so. “Now, the Senate must take up this bill and it must be signed into law. No matter how wealthy or well-connected, every person who is complicit, enabled, or abused women and girls will be brought to justice.” Congresswoman Lee has continued to push for truth and transparency around the Epstein files, as demanded by Epstein’s victims and the American people. The motion to subpoena the Epstein files was initially introduced by Rep. Summer Lee during a House Oversight subcommittee hearing in July. It passed with an 8-2 vote, with three Republicans joining Oversight Democrats.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-denounces-gop-attacks-on-dc-autonomy-and-public-safety-in-house-rules-committee-testimony,Rep. Summer Lee Denounces GOP Attacks on D.C. Autonomy and Public Safety in House Rules Committee Testimony,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"“If Donald Trump wants to run DC, he should resign from the presidency and run for mayor.” Video of Testimony PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 17, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) testified before the House Rules Committee to oppose two Republican-led bills that would strip Washington, D.C. residents of their right to self-governance, roll back police accountability reforms, and reimpose discriminatory cash bail practices. The bills under consideration — H.R. 5107, the “Common-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now (CLEAN) in D.C. Act,” and H.R. 5214, the “District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act” — represent what Lee called a “ridiculous overreach” by the federal government into local D.C. affairs. “It is completely unbelievable that we are here today yet again to micromanage Washington, D.C.,” said Rep. Lee in her opening statement. “The people handling D.C.’s government should be local leaders who are accountable to the people who live here and who actually know the city — not some Member of Congress who has never left Capitol Hill or Navy Yard neighborhoods. If Donald Trump wants to run D.C., he should resign from the presidency and run for mayor. And my Republican colleagues are welcome to run for D.C. Council.” Lee sharply criticized Republicans for putting Americans’ health and safety at risk during a 42-day government shutdown, even as they now claim to be acting in the name of public safety. “ Republicans have shown a lack of ability to govern the federal government, yet they want to take on local issues,” Lee said, adding that “millions of Americans are seeing huge spikes in health insurance costs of up to 114%, and Republicans refuse to act.” On the District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act, Lee said: “Under this bill, if you are charged with certain crimes, you will automatically be locked up before your trial. For other crimes, the bill will require cash bail or a bond. This will make D.C.’s local law far stricter than federal law. You shouldn’t automatically be locked up based on a criminal charge, before you are proven guilty. It seems Republicans have forgotten about innocent until proven guilty and the Fifth Amendment — core tenets of our democracy.” On the CLEAN D.C. Act, which repeals D.C.’s 2022 Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform law, Lee stated: “These measures increased accountability for bad actors. They improved training for police officers. They strengthened independent civilian oversight and expanded public access to body-worn camera footage. None of these reforms are radical anti-police measures. They are the first, small steps toward justice — and this bill repeals all of that.” Lee urged her colleagues to reject both bills, declaring: “Both of these bills are opposed by D.C. residents. They are opposed by the mayor and council. They were opposed by D.C.’s Member of Congress in the Oversight Committee. We should reject them. I urge the majority to keep their hands off D.C.” The hearing, which was livestreamed on theHouse Rules Committee website, featured debate over D.C.’s right to home rule — a principle supported by both Republican and Democratic presidents, including Richard Nixon. Rep. Lee’s remarks come as part of her ongoing effort to defend D.C.’s autonomy and civil rights, followingher previous viral comments on Republican efforts to “criminalize poverty and punish local democracy.” Full Opening Remarks: Thank you, Madam Chair. It is completely unbelievable that we are here today yet again to micromanage Washington, DC. The federal government was shut down for a record 42 days. The Republicans, who control the House, Senate and Presidency, put Americans’ health and safety at risk, even making multiple attempts to block the most vulnerable Americans from accessing benefits that keep them from starving. Republicans have shown a lack of ability to govern the federal government, yet they want to take on local issues. Millions of Americans are seeing huge spikes in health insurance costs of up to 114%. Your monthly premiums could more than double. And Republicans refuse to act. Multiple federal courts ruled that the President must allow SNAP funds to be distributed, yet the president ignored the courts and refused to comply with the law. And still my Republican colleagues insist that micromanaging DC is the best use of our time. Today, the rules committee will consider two pieces of legislation that are a ridiculous overreach by our federal government. DC has over 700,000 residents – that’s more than 2 states. DC taxpayers don’t just pay federal taxes – they pay more per capita than any state. DC as a whole contributes more total federal taxes than 26 states. The people handling DC’s government should be local leaders who are accountable to the people who live here and who actually know the city. Not some Member of Congress who has never left Capitol Hill or Navy Yard neighborhoods. If Donald Trump wants to run DC, he should resign from the presidency and run for mayor. And my Republican colleagues are welcome to run for DC Council. We all support public safety, but the federal government should be a partner to DC, and we should focus on actual solutions. Despite the Trump Administration’s repeated claims that violent crime in DC is rising, the Republican investigation into crime statistics at the Metropolitan Police Department has confirmed what we already knew: Crime has been going down. The Committee’s investigation has also repeatedly highlighted the steps DC government officials have taken to bring crime down from its recent peak in 2023. The DC council passed legislation to fill gaps in the criminal code, to fix unintentional problems created by existing laws, and to empower local courts. We have also repeatedly heard about the importance of maintaining that critical partnership between local enforcement, local elected officials, and the communities they serve. It is the responsibility of DC’s elected officials to address local issues – not Congress. Today, the majority is proposing 2 bills which will both attack DC’s right to self-government. First, we have the H.R. 5214 – The District of Columbia Cash Bail Reform Act. Under this bill, if you are charged with certain crimes, you will automatically be locked up before your trial. For other crimes, the bill will require cash bail or a bond. This will make DC’s local law far stricter than federal law. Pre-trial release should be based on a judge’s determination of flight risk, and danger to the community, not just on a blanket mandate from Congress. When a person’s freedom is at stake they deserve to be heard as an individual rather than be painted with a broad brush. You shouldn’t automatically be locked up based on a criminal charge, before you are proven guilty. It seems Republicans have forgotten about innocent until proven guilty and the fifth amendment, core tenants of our democracy. And our system should not treat you more harshly just because you are poor or from D.C. Rich defendants are not less prone to criminality than poor defendants. This bill will lock up more poor people, and more innocent people. It is unfair to DC and unfair to innocent people. Next, we have the CLEAN DC Act—which repeals commonsense criminal justice reforms passed by DC’s elected representatives in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests. We know that cities and communities all over the country passed similar reforms to increase trust, accountability, and safety. In DC, these measures increased accountability for bad actors. They improved training for police officers. They strengthened independent civilian oversight and expanded public access to body-worn camera footage. None of these reforms are radical anti-police measures. None of them are particularly transformative. They are the first, small steps toward justice and this bill repeals all of that. It would damage what little trust there is between the DC police and the communities they protect and serve. We should oppose it. Both of these bills are opposed by DC residents. They are opposed by the mayor and council. They were opposed by DC’s Member of Congress in the Oversight committee. We should reject them. I urge the majority to keep their hands off DC and I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-lee-bacon-panetta-lead-bipartisan-push-urging-permanent-retainment-of-dept-of-ed-staff-serving-students-experiencing-homelessness-and-foster-care,"Reps. Lee, Bacon, Panetta Lead Bipartisan Push Urging Permanent Retainment of Dept. of Ed Staff Serving Students Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Care",2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Text of Letter (PDF) PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 17, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) led a bipartisan letter with Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) to the Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Department of Education urging the permanent retainment of staff in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) who administer programs serving students experiencing homelessness and students in foster care. The letter follows widespread reduction-in-force (RIF) notices issued during the government shutdown that reportedly fired almost all OESE workers, including the staff who administer the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program. Although the shutdown RIF has since been reversed, the lawmakers are concerned that the Department is working to gut the EHCY program and stressed that reinstating workers temporarily is not sufficient. The Department, the lawmakers emphasize, must restore—and retain—the specialized personnel who ensure states and districts can meet their legal obligations to students. “About 1.4 million students in the U.S. experience homelessness each school year and about 270,000 school-aged children and youth are in foster care. Beyond the challenges of meeting their basic needs, these students face unique barriers to education including difficulty enrolling in school without a fixed address or necessary documentation, lack of transportation, frequently changing schools, and chronic absenteeism,” the lawmakers wrote. “Federal programs administered by the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, like the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program, are one of few lifelines for children experiencing homelessness.” The letter notes that without OESE’s specialized staff—including those supporting the EHCY program—states and districts cannot fully implement federal protections (McKinney-Vento) or effectively utilize Title I, Part A set-asides for students experiencing homelessness. The members underscore Congress’s bipartisan support for EHCY, with both chambers proposing $129 million for FY 2026, and argue that permanent staffing is essential to deliver on that commitment. “Without these workers, the Department of Education will be unable to fulfill its legal responsibilities under Section 724 of the McKinney-Vento Act, which protects access to education for students experiencing homelessness. Without these workers, states and districts will be unequipped to implement EHCY funding and other critical support that students are entitled to,” the lawmakers continued. “As a result, over one million children and youth may lose access to the educational services they rely on as an essential source of stability.” The letter is signed by Representatives Nanette Barragán, Salud Carbajal, André Carson, Greg Casar, Judy Chu, Emanuel Cleaver, Danny Davis, Madeleine Dean, Dwight Evans, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chrissy Houlahan, Glenn Ivey, Jonathan Jackson, Hank Johnson, Seth Magaziner, Gwen Moore, Kevin Mullin, Jerrold Nadler, Brittany Pettersen, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Darren Soto, Marilyn Strickland, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, and Gabe Vasquez. The letter is endorsed by SchoolHouse Connection and the Homeless Children’s Education Fund. “Ensuring that children who are homeless or who enter foster care can stay in school is not a partisan issue. Restoring the small, specialized team at the U.S. Department of Education that helps states and school districts carry out these protections is a practical, bipartisan step that honors the law Congress passed. We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Lee, Panetta, and Bacon in calling for the permanent reinstatement of these positions and stand ready to work with the Administration and leaders in both parties to make sure these students are not left behind,” said Barbara Duffield, Executive Director of SchoolHouse Connection. ""Students experiencing homelessness and foster care face unique challenges every day and the dedicated federal workers supporting them are critical to ensuring these children have access to stable, equitable education. We urge the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Education to permanently reinstate these essential positions. These students cannot afford to lose the advocates who fight for their success,"" said AJ Jefferson, president and CEO of Homeless Children's Education Fund, expressing her concern. Full letter text is availablehere.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-highlights-850000-federal-funding-improvements-across,"ICYMI: Boyle Highlights $850,000 in Federal Funding for Improvements Across Philadelphia’s Historic District",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"PHILADELPHIA, PA – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) today joined leaders from the Independence Historical Trust at the National Constitution Center to highlight $850,000 in new federal Community Project Funding he secured for improvements throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District. The announcement comes as Philadelphia prepares for the nation’s semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) and continues long-term work to strengthen and modernize the Historic District for decades to come. “The idea that right behind me on Independence Mall, people from all over the nation, indeed all over the world, are going to be coming here — not just the United States, but coming to Philadelphia, to the heart of America's founding — to celebrate our nation is truly inspiring,” said Congressman Boyle. “This is the most historic square mile in the nation. This is literally the nation's birthplace, and I believe the $850,000 I'm presenting to you today will only help us enhance this area for all Philadelphians and indeed for all people throughout the nation to come and celebrate our nation's history.” “We are fortunate as Philadelphians that your district covers this remarkable square mile of historical assets,” said Bill Marrazzo, Independence Historical Trust Board Chair. “With this expression of financial support made possible by your sponsorship Congressman, the Independence Historical Trust, in partnership with so many other not-for-profits in this region, is gonna continue to invest in making it easy for people to get around this remarkable body of historical assets here in the city of Philadelphia.” The funding delivered by Rep. Boyle supports two major improvement projects in the Historic District. The Gateway Project at 6th and Race Streets will deliver long-overdue streetscape upgrades to improve safety, walkability, and connectivity near Franklin Square Park and the northern edge of Independence Mall. The final phase of Tamanend Plaza at 2nd and Market Streets will deliver a revitalized public space honoring Lenni Lenape Chief Tamanend. The plaza will feature upgraded pedestrian crossings, new bike lanes, green space enhancements, and other improvements to support a safer and more welcoming environment. At today’s event, Congressman Boyle announced that this funding brings the total amount he has secured for the Historic District to nearly $4 million over the past two and a half years. Leaders from the Independence Historical Trust—including Chair Bill Marrazzo, Executive Director Tom Caramanico, and Development Director Jonathan Burton—joined the Congressman in emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in the Historic District as the city approaches America’s 250th anniversary.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases/evans-votes-no-health-care-shutdown-bill,Evans Votes ‘No’ on Health-Care Shutdown Bill,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Dwight Evans,E000296,evans.house.gov,evans,https://evans.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON (November 13, 2025) – Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3) said the fight isn’t over to prevent a shutdown of health care for 24 million Americans whose health insurance premiums are about to spike. “I voted No on a Republican government funding bill because it fails to address what amounts to a shutdown of health care for nearly 500,000 Pennsylvanians who receive a federal tax credit subsidy for coverage they buy through Pennie, the commonwealth’s Affordable Care Act exchange,” Evans said. “If your monthly premium spikes to double or more what you’re paying now, that will force a lot of Pennsylvanians to drop coverage to keep their home and keep food on the table. That would be a shutdown of their health care – and the majority Republicans in Congress should get serious about working with Democrats to prevent it – NOW!” Evans also released a short video statement about the bill, which is available here or in the Shorts section of https://www.youtube.com/@repdwightevans “Open enrollment for Affordable Care Act coverage began on Nov. 1, and many Americans will be hurt by the Republican health-care shutdown if Congress doesn’t act well before Dec. 31. Working Americans need congressional Republicans to act on these health-care tax credits with the same speed they displayed earlier this year, when Republicans rushed a tax cut for the richest into law,” Evans said. “In fact, Republicans could have put renewal of the health-care tax credits into the funding bill they are rushing into law now. Senate Democrats offered an amendment for a one-year renewal, and all Democratic senators, including Senator John Fetterman, voted for it. Unfortunately, Republicans, including Senator Dave McCormick, voted it down on party lines, rejecting that opportunity to help more than 400,000 Pennsylvanians keep their health coverage. “I and my House Democratic colleagues will keep fighting to protect Americans’ health care. Bottom line – this fight is not over!” Evans represents the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Northwest and West Philadelphia and parts of North, South, Southwest and Center City Philadelphia. He recently announced that his office returned to or saved $4.5 million for constituents in 2024 in cases involving federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs. The 2024 figure brings Evans’ office’s total to more than $45.5 million returned to or saved for constituents during his first eight years in Congress.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-stands-in-solidarity-with-starbucks-workers-united-as-pittsburgh-area-baristas-strike-on-red-cup-day,Rep. Summer Lee Stands in Solidarity with Starbucks Workers United as Pittsburgh-Area Baristas Strike on Red Cup Day,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 13, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued a statement in strong support of Starbucks Workers United (SBWU) as baristas across the Pittsburgh region and the country launched an open-ended strike on the company’s annual Red Cup Day—one of its busiest sales days of the year. The strike comes as workers continue to demand fair wages, reliable scheduling, and an end to what they describe as one of the most aggressive union-busting campaigns in modern history. Starbucks workers at more than a dozen unionized stores across Western Pennsylvania joined thousands nationwide in collective action to push for a fair contract. Rep Lee said, “Starbucks workers are demonstrating tremendous courage by taking collective action and demanding fair pay and a real seat at the table. That is what the labor movement is all about. In Western Pennsylvania and across the country, working people are showing up, putting in the work, and still struggling to make ends meet while executives take home millions. Starbucks’ corporate greed and union-busting tactics are unacceptable. No one should have to fight this hard to earn a living wage, get enough hours to qualify for benefits, or be treated with respect on the job. The power of the people will always be greater than the people in power, and I am proud to support SWU in this fight. Workers are the heart of this company, and until they get the fair contract they deserve, I will continue to stand in solidarity.” Rep. Lee has been a consistent advocate for labor rights and has joined workers and other union members on the picket line throughout her time in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/11/congresswoman-dean-s-statement-on-the-shutdown-deal,Congresswoman Dean’s Statement on the Shutdown Deal,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement on the Senate's continuing resolution: ""I voted No on the Senate’s shutdown deal. It is a disappointing deal that does not prioritize the health of Americans — the very heart of our spending debate. Because of Congressional Republicans’ refusal to extend ACA tax credits, nearly 20,000 of my constituents are at risk of losing their healthcare. Many will not be able to afford the massive premium increases set to take effect at the end of the year. People will face unimaginable, difficult choices. Throughout the longest government shutdown in American history, we witnessed the Trump Administration’s cruelty as they willfully neglected their duty to fund SNAP for 42 million Americans, including more than 50,000 of my constituents. We have also seen the pain of dedicated federal employees working without pay — especially our military, air traffic controllers, TSA agents, and Capitol Police. It is for that reason I am relieved to see the shutdown end. But this is no way to run a government: one temporary spending bill after another. As an appropriator, I am committed to funding our government wholly and appropriately — the Republican majority failed to do so. What’s more alarming: the Senate snuck a shockingly corrupt provision into this “clean continuing resolution” that allows eight Senators, whose phone records were lawfully seized in connection to the January 6th insurrection, the ability to sue the federal government and receive a minimum of $1 million taxpayer dollars each. How does this befit our duty to fund needed federal agencies and our dedicated federal workers? Our budget is a reflection of our values. This temporary funding bill does not reflect my values — or the values of my constituents. Yet, I am determined to move forward and keep fighting to lower healthcare costs for our communities."" Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/11/dean-bresnahan-introduce-bill-honoring-families-of-veterans-lost-to-suicide,"Dean, Bresnahan Introduce the Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act to Honor Families of Veterans Lost to Suicide",2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) and Congressman Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) introduced the Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act, bipartisan legislation directing the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an official Green Star flag for the next of kin of veterans who die by suicide. Named in honor of Sergeant Walter F. Hartnett IV, a dedicated American servicemember whose life was tragically lost to the invisible wounds of war, the legislation seeks to provide both recognition and solace to families who continue to carry the burdens of military service after their loved one’s passing. Walt was first a 13-year US Army veteran, serving nine years in the active-duty Army and four years in the reserves. As Commander of Conshohocken VFW Post 1074 and Commander of Pennsylvania VFW District 16, Walt created a home for those who needed community. For nearly two years, Walt served as the Veterans Affairs representative for Congresswoman Dean, connecting veterans to vital resources and always lending a listening ear. “Walt Hartnett was a man devoted to service — to his country, his fellow veterans, his Conshohocken community, and, above all, his beautiful family. I was blessed to work alongside him, and our office was better because of his powerful voice for veterans in need. He led an expansive life, one that we lost too soon to suicide,” said Rep. Dean. “Every day, we lose an estimated 22 veterans to suicide — men and women who gave of themselves entirely for our freedom, and who bore wounds civilians cannot fathom. Yet, their families receive no federal recognition for such excruciating loss. The Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act would change that by creating a Green Star Service flag to raise awareness of the crisis of veteran suicide and provide resources for their loved ones. I thank my fellow Pennsylvanian, Congressman Rob Bresnahan, for co-leading this important and personal bipartisan bill.” “We honor those who gave their lives for our country on the battlefield, but we cannot forget those who lost their lives to the lasting wounds of service,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “Veterans Day is a crucial reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of each veteran, including those who lose their lives to suicide. The Green Star flag will serve as a visible reminder that these veterans and their families’ sacrifices matter and that our nation stands beside them.” “Families who have lost a Veteran to suicide deserve their own place of honor, not hidden under any other banner, and no longer overlooked,” said Matt Cahill, Green Star Families of America Founder. “The Green Star Service Banner affirms that their loss matters, their service endures, and their strength will forever stand as part of America’s storied legacy of service and sacrifice.” The Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act affirms a national commitment to destigmatizing mental health in the armed forces and ensuring every veteran’s legacy is honored with dignity. Read the full text of the bill here. Watch Congresswoman Dean pay tribute to Walt and the Hartnett family on the House floor here. Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4819,Rep. Houlahan's NO Vote on the Continuing Resolution,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) voted NO on the short-term continuing resolution brought forward by House Republican leadership, citing the majority’s continued efforts to undermine health care, raise costs for working families, and weaken America’s standing in the world. “Every American deserves access to affordable, quality health care,"" said Houlahan. “Unfortunately, this Republican majority has spent the past ten months pushing legislation to strip away health insurance coverage, slash Medicaid and Medicare, make prescription drugs more expensive and weaponize hunger to play to their base. I cannot support legislation that intentionally harms the majority of Americans while rewarding billionaires and lawmakers themselves. While the CR vote today reopens the federal government and keeps it funded until January 31, it does nothing to address the real harm the nation is suffering under President Trump and his Administration. It fails the basic test of governing responsibly,” Houlahan continued. --end--",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-statement-on-vote-against-budget-fueling-republican-healthcare-crisis,Rep. Summer Lee Statement on Vote Against Budget Fueling Republican Healthcare Crisis,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 12, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement on her vote against the Republican continuing resolution that does nothing to stop healthcare costs from skyrocketing for 24 million Americans. “After enduring the pain of the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, millions of working Americans are seeing their healthcare premiums skyrocket. This was avoidable. For weeks, House Democrats have pushed Republicans to return to the negotiating table to address this healthcare crisis of their own making and reopen the government so federal workers can receive their paychecks, benefits like SNAP can resume, and programs like Head Start and LIHEAP can continue without disruption. There is nothing in this bill that guarantees healthcare subsidies will be voted on and passed. “The American people want a government that serves them and a Democratic party that fights for them, especially at a time when we face rising authoritarianism and overburdening costs. I could not in good faith support capitulating to false promises that will hurt people in the long run. We live in the wealthiest country on the planet and should not have to choose between healthcare over any other essential need.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/boyle-calls-fetterman-mccormick-reject-legislation-raises,Boyle Calls on Fetterman & McCormick to Reject Legislation that Raises Pennsylvanians’ Health Care Costs,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"PHILADELPHIA, PA — Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, released the following statement urging Pennsylvania Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick to vote no on final passage of a government funding bill that would raise health care costs for Pennsylvanians: “I urge Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick to vote no on this bill that would strip health care from millions of Americans and send costs soaring for tens of millions more, including by more than 100 percent for hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians. We need an agreement that reopens the government and protects Americans’ health care.” Earlier today, Boyle held a press conference with local labor and civic leaders, urging Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick to defend Pennsylvania families and oppose this legislation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-replaces-lost-military-awards-vietnam-veteran,Congressman Deluzio Replaces Lost Military Awards for Vietnam Veteran,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Leading up to Veterans Day on November 11th, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) is sharing a story of how his office recently helped a Vietnam veteran replace lost military awards. Aliquippa resident Mr. John M. Denk served in the U.S. Navy in Vietnam and earned several military decorations. After losing these awards, Mr. Denk worked for years to get replacements, to no avail. Eventually, he called the office of Congressman Chris Deluzio—also a Navy veteran—to ask for help. Congressman Deluzio’s office worked with the Department of the Navy to successfully get replacement awards, and he had the honor of presenting them to Mr. Denk and his family at an emotional meeting. “My Western Pennsylvania constituent John Denk answered the call and served our country honorably in combat in Vietnam. He told me what it was like when he came home from the Navy, like a lot of Vietnam vets, and was made to feel shame for his service. It hurt,” said Congressman Deluzio. “Now, all these years later, my team and I are honored to help him get replacements for his lost medals and ribbons. ‘You don’t know how much this means,’ he told me. I shared a simple message: we're proud of him.” The replacement medals and ribbons that Congressman Deluzio presented to Mr. Denk included: Combat Action Ribbon Meritorious Unit Commendation Navy Good Conduct Medal National Defense Service Medal Vietnam Service Medal (with three Bronze Campaign Stars) Honorable Reserve Discharge Button Earlier this year, Congressman Deluzio helped another Beaver County family get the medals that their Grandpap earned in WWII but never received. This work is one of the many types of constituent services that Congressman Deluzio’s office provides to residents of Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. So far, the office of Congressman Deluzio has closed the cases of more than 3,150 constituents. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District can always request assistance with a federal agency by calling Congressman Deluzio’s office at (412) 344-5583 or submitting this online form. Congressman Deluzio—a U.S. Navy veteran deployed to Iraq and at sea, and a graduate of the United States Naval Academy—is a leading voice in support of his fellow veterans. In Congress, he is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, a founding member of the Democratic Veterans Caucus, and has introduced legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to WWII Nurses, among many pro-veteran initiatives. Photos from Mr. Denk’s medal presentation are available for use by the press here, with consent from the Denk family. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-colleagues-on-resolution-to-reconvene-house-end-republican-shutdown,"Rep. Summer Lee Joins Colleagues on Resolution to Reconvene House, End Republican Shutdown",2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 7, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) introduced a resolution to change House rules that have allowed Speaker Johnson and Republican leadership to indefinitely recess the House during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. The Reopening the People’s House Resolution would allow a majority of Members of Congress to end a district work period. Currently, the Speaker of the House has unilateral authority to keep the House in recess. “We are in the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and House Republicans have shamelessly walked away from doing their jobs. It’s long past time for Republicans to come back to the negotiating table to avert a healthcare crisis and alleviate the pain from millions across the country. Folks are hurting. SNAP benefits have been withheld by the Trump administration, federal workers are going without paychecks, and flights have been cancelled because of public safety risks—to say the least,” said Rep. Lee. “Our country needs the government to do better. We can and must be responsive to their calls.” “It’s time for Republicans to end their vacation and reopen the People’s House. While more than one million workers go without pay during this shutdown, the House hasn’t even voted since September 19th,” said Rep. Larson. “It is beyond parody to watch Members of Congress get paid to take a vacation while they demand Capitol Police, Air Traffic Controllers, and doctors and nurses to show up to work and not receive a paycheck. Democrats have been in Washington, ready to reopen government and end Donald Trump’s health care crisis. Even Republicans like Marjorie Taylor Greene want to act, but Speaker Johnson is wielding his gavel to prevent us from doing our jobs. The People’s House is supposed to be governed of, by, and for the people, not one man acting at the behest of a president. That is why, today, I am leading my colleagues with a new plan – to change the rules so we can end this shutdown vacation and address the people’s business.” In addition to Rep. Lee, the “Reopening the People’s House Resolution,” led by Rep. Larson, is cosponsored by Reps. Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Al Green (TX-09), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Ed Case (HI-01), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), and Dina Titus (NV-01). Full text of the resolution is available HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-joins-pittsburgh-water-to-celebrate-193-million-groundbreaking-for-key-water-infrastructure-renewal-projects,Rep. Summer Lee Joins Pittsburgh Water to Celebrate $193 Million Groundbreaking for Key Water Infrastructure Renewal Projects,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 7, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) joined Pittsburgh Water, elected officials, community leaders, and representatives from labor and professional organizations to officially launch the ABC Project — a transformative initiative and cornerstone of the Authority’s Water Reliability Plan. The official kick-off of this $193 million multi-year construction investment comes as the result of a years-long process of planning, strategizing, careful design, and permitting, intricately sequenced to ensure consistent service for Pittsburgh Water customers. At today’s event Congresswoman Summer Lee, Mayor Ed Gainey, PENNVEST Executive Director Robert Boos, and Secretary, Treasurer of Pittsburgh Building Trades Tom Platt, joined Pittsburgh Water CEO Will Pickering and Chief of Engineering Rachael Beam at the podium. “The ABC Project is more than an infrastructure upgrade — it’s a commitment to equity, public health, and environmental justice,” said Congresswoman Summer Lee. “For too long, underserved communities have lived with aging water systems. This project is a promise that every family, no matter their zip code, deserves clean, reliable water.” “Today’s groundbreaking is more than a ceremonial milestone. It represents our commitment to delivering safe, reliable water to Pittsburghers for generations to come,” said Pittsburgh Water CEO Will Pickering. “This project would not be possible without the dedicated team and stakeholders behind it. Through strategic investment, meticulous planning, and strong partnerships across public and private sectors, we’re breaking ground on the most ambitious project Pittsburgh Water has undertaken since our distribution system was installed more than a century ago.” The ABC Project - named for its three major components, the Aspinwall Pump Station, Bruecken Pump Station, and the Clearwell Bypass - will modernize critical elements of Pittsburgh’s drinking water treatment and distribution system. Once complete, the project will significantly improve the reliability, safety, and resilience of water service for hundreds of thousands of residents. Aspinwall Pump Station Renovation: This historic facility will undergo a comprehensive overhaul, including the replacement of pumps, motors, switchgear, and piping. A new chemical building will be constructed to replace the existing fluoride building. Stormwater improvements and architectural preservation efforts will ensure the building’s historic character is maintained while enhancing its operational performance. Bruecken Pump Station Replacement: The aging Bruecken facility will be replaced with a new, three-story, energy-efficient building designed to house modern pumps, large-diameter piping, and advanced electrical and control systems. The new station will include upgraded lighting, HVAC, plumbing, fire suppression, and security systems, ensuring long-term reliability and support for future growth. Clearwell Bypass Installation: A new bypass system will be constructed to allow Pittsburgh Water to take the Clearwell—an essential 44-million-gallon underground disinfection basin—offline for full replacement in the near future as the capstone project of the Water Reliability Plan. The bypass includes 144-inch and 84-inch diameter pipes, an overflow structure, and three bypass vaults, all designed to maintain water quality and service continuity during the Clearwell’s reconstruction. Among the audience, more than 20 representatives from labor unions and the building trades stood in solidarity and were recognized for their role in bringing this project to life. Others from the project team also attending include Mascaro Construction CEO John Mascaro, Jr., Michael Baker International CEO Brian Lutes, and representatives from the design engineer firm Brown and Caldwell also attended. Celebrating this milestone with the Authority includes Pittsburgh Water’s board of directors, State Senator Lindsey Williams, State Representative Lindsay Powell, and Laura Sohinki, Southwest Regional Director with Governor Shapiro’s Office, as well as numerous stakeholders and community representatives who work closely with Pittsburgh Water. “This project is the result of years of planning, engineering, and collaboration — and it’s a major step forward in modernizing our water system,” said Pittsburgh Water’s Chief Engineering Officer Rachael Beam. “Once complete, the improvements at our Aspinwall Pump Station, replacement of the Bruecken Pump Station, and construction of the Clearwell Bypass will work together to enhance system reliability, improve water quality, and increase operational flexibility as we work toward completing the remaining steps of our expansive Water Reliability Plan.” Construction is expected to continue through 2029. The project is forecasted to generate more than 1,300 jobs and stimulate nearly $300 million in regional economic output. Funding includes $248 million in low-interest loans from state and federal partners, helping to reduce long-term costs for ratepayers. “Major infrastructure improvements like the ABC Project put skilled tradespeople to work and create real opportunities for local workers,” said Tom Platt Secretary, Treasurer of Pittsburgh Building Trades. “We’re proud to be part of building something that will serve Pittsburgh for decades to come, and we appreciate the commitment from Pittsburgh Water and the Commonwealth to invest in union labor and family-sustaining jobs.” “This project is a win for Pittsburgh and a win for Pennsylvania. It’s going to create good-paying jobs, strengthen our economy, and ensure that families and businesses have access to safe, reliable water for generations to come,” said PENNVEST Executive Director Robert Boos. “Through state-level support from PENNVEST, we’re helping to get critical infrastructure projects like this across the finish line while keeping costs down for ratepayers. This is what smart, equitable investment looks like.” The ABC Project is a key phase of the $470 million Water Reliability Plan, laying the groundwork for this multi-year initiative to modernize Pittsburgh’s water system and ensure uninterrupted service during future upgrades, including the full replacement of the Clearwell. ""The ABC Project is a powerful example of what's possible when we invest in our people and our neighborhoods,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey. ""Reliable water service is a basic necessity, and this project ensures that every Pittsburgher, no matter where they live, can count on safe, clean water. I’m grateful to see Pittsburgh Water advancing infrastructure that not only creates jobs and strengthens communities, but also builds a more equitable future for all of us.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-bill-boost-workplace-safety-public-sector-workers-gains-momentum,"Deluzio Bill to Boost Workplace Safety for Public Sector Workers Gains Momentum, Cosponsors",2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) announced that his Public Service Worker Protection Act is gaining momentum and now has 50 co-sponsors. This includes his Republican co-lead on the measure, Pennsylvania Republican Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). This bill seeks to expand the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) to include all public sector workers under its defined safety protections on the job. The Public Service Worker Protection Act reaches this milestone of 50 cosponsors in the midst of the longest ever federal government shutdown that is leaving tens of thousands of federal workers furloughed or working without pay. “No matter where they live, American workers in every sector should have the strong safety standards and protections of OSHA in their workplace,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’m glad that we’ve got momentum growing behind the bipartisan Public Service Worker Protection Act—we need to take on this gap in worker protections and support the public servants who power our state and local governments, teach our kids, and keep all of us safe. Let’s protect America’s public sector workers and get this done.” The goal of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) is to ""assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women."" The 1970 law created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at the federal level and provided that states could run their own safety and health programs as long as those programs were at least as effective as the federal program. Federal and state safety personnel work to ensure worker safety and health through work site enforcement, education, and compliance assistance. While the OSH Act protects some public sector workers working under federal authority, federal OSHA law does not inherently cover workers at state and local government agencies. Instead, public sector workers in these states are protected by the OSH Act only if their state has an OSHA-approved program—leaving a gap of public sector workers whose workplaces are subject to fewer safety standards and are given less protections. As of today, around two dozen states and territories have OSHA-approved programs that cover both private sector and public sector workers. Some states and territories may also have plans that only cover public sector workers. This leaves dozens of other states and territories where public sector workers lack worker safety protections. The bill was reintroduced in the 119th Congress in May 2025 and is endorsed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), Communications Workers of America (CWA), the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the United Steelworkers (USW), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and the National Education Association (NEA). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4805,Rep. Houlahan Applauded for Taking Her Case to Speaker Johnson,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"In the News Rep. Houlahan Applauded for Taking Her Case to Speaker Johnson On ""Way Too Early with Ali Vitali"" Share on Facebook Share on X Print this Page Share by Email Washington. D.C. , November 6, 2025 Tags: Tariffs, Trade and Taxes , Health Care , Veterans , Affordable America Click here to watch Rep. Houlahan speak to Speaker Johnson at his daily press conference, and Rep. Hillary Scholten discussing the moment with journalist Ali Vitali. Related News Houlahan Secures Key Provisions of Bipartisan Innovation Bill in Final SBIR/STTR Package March 17, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases Barclay Friends Receives $1 Million Federal Grant Supporting Goshen Memory Care Neighborhood March 6, 2026 | Posted in In the News Democratic Women’s Caucus & Reproductive Freedom Caucus Sound the Alarm: UN Agency Merger Threatens Decades of Global Progress for Women January 20, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases Houlahan and Bicameral Group Of Democrats Introduce Bill To Protect First Amendment Rights, Safeguard Americans From Politically Motivated Harassment And Prosecutions January 14, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases Houlahan Joins Colleagues to Introduce Bipartisan Solution to Restore Public Library Passport Services January 12, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases Share This Page Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share by Email Print This Page Press Contact Phone: (202) 225-4315 Email: errin.cecil-smith@mail.house.gov Newsletter Archive Media Kit Connect with Chrissy facebook twitter instagram youtube bluesky Facebook U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan Instagram View this profile on Instagram Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (@ repchrissyhoulahan ) • Instagram photos and videos Subscribe Contact Me How Can I Help?",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4807,Rep. Houlahan Joins Colleagues Demanding Health Care Protections for All Americans,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"West Chester District Office 709 E. Gay Street, Suite 4 West Chester, PA 19380 Phone: (610) 883-5050 Open: Monday-Wednesday 9:00am-5:00pm Open by Appointment: Thursday and Friday Sí, se habla español Reading District Office 201 Penn Street, Suite 201 Reading, PA 19601 Phone: (610) 295-0815 Open: Wednesday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Open by Appointment: Monday and Tuesday Sí, se habla español",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4809,"Government shutdown ‘disastrous’ for veterans: Lawmakers, advocates",2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Published by The Hill Written by Surina Venkat Click here to watch full speakers' panels at The Hill Veterans Voices Summit Lawmakers and advocates characterized the government shutdown and the partisan politics fueling it as “disastrous” for retired and active-duty service members, who they said rely on food assistance and medical coverage provisions at risk amid the funding lapse. “This shutdown is really disastrous for our current military, and it’s not just because of the financial worry, which is very high,” Kathy Roth-Douquet, co-founder and CEO of Blue Star Families, told NewsNation’s Washington bureau chief Mike Viqueira on Thursday at The Hill’s “Veteran Voices Summit.” Though veterans’ issues enjoy broad bipartisan support, lawmakers and advocates said the Trump administration’s funding cuts and the shutdown disproportionately impacted service members. “We can’t keep shooting ourselves in the foot on this kind of stuff,” said Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.), a former Air Force officer. “We have to take care of our veterans and cannot be partisan about this.” About 1.2 million veterans in the U.S. live in households that participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to low-income families. SNAP’s funding was set to lapse Nov. 1, though lawmakers introduced legislation to try to fund the program amid the government shutdown. Following a federal judge’s ruling, the administration said it would partially fund the program in November. Roth-Douquet said the number of military members turning to food banks during the shutdown was “surging” because many members have spouses who are federal government workers — meaning their household income was “down one paycheck” during the shutdown. “But more importantly, we are so vital in the military to our civilian leadership, and when our civilian leadership doesn’t seem like they can do their basic job, it undermines our confidence in serving,” she said. She said some veterans no longer wanted to recommend military service to others due to the political tumult. Virginia Burger, a senior defense policy analyst for the Project on Government Oversight and a former Marine Corps member, said the “politicization of the military” through measures such as the federal government’s deployment of the National Guard in recent months has affected veterans’ morale. “If the military loses credibility, that hurts veterans, right?” Burger said. “It hurts our own ability, if the reputation of the organization we are associated with is discolored, it’s going to have a negative impact on us.”",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4806,Pennsylvania Democrat interrupts Speaker Johnson’s shutdown press conference,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Published in The Hill Written by Emily Brooks Click here to go to story Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) interrupted a House Republican press conference Wednesday, urging Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to “call the leadership of both parties” to find a solution to the government shutdown. Houlahan’s interjection came as Johnson started to take questions during a press conference on the Capitol steps, yelling over the first reporter Johnson called on and saying Johnson is “the Speaker for the whole House.” “We’re having a press conference, thank you,” Johnson said. Houlahan continued, “I am part of the American people —” “And you should respect free speech,” Johnson said, saying he would “love to talk” to Houlahan in his office. “Call the leadership of both parties and bring us together and solve this problem together,” Houlahan said. Johnson noted he, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) all met with President Trump in the Oval Office in the days before the shutdown started. A Capitol Police officer approached Houlahan but retreated after she noted she is a member of Congress. Wednesday marks the 36th day of the government shutdown, making it the longest shutdown in history. Through the shutdown, Republicans have called on Senate Democrats to pass a Republican-crafted “clean” stopgap to fund the government at current levels through Nov. 21. Democrats have called on Republicans to negotiate on health care, particularly on extending enhanced ObamaCare subsidies that expire at the end of the year, before voting to fund the government. “You voted to shut down the government. You voted to stop SNAP benefits,” Johnson told Houlihan [sic]. “You voted to not pay the troops, not pay TSA and Border Patrol. You may regret it now, but that’s your vote, and it’s on the record.” Johnson and Houlihan [sic] talked over each other. “You are absolutely misrepresenting history, sir, and you’re dividing the American people unnecessarily,” Houlahan said. “I do not regret anything. It is important that we unify and that we work together as both parties for the American people.” After she walked away from the press conference, Houlahan told The Hill that she chose to interrupt because she had no indication Johnson had talked to the Democratic leaders “in a serious way about trying to come to a compromise.” “This is not a mandate. This president has no mandate. These issues are real issues. They deserve to have real conversations. We deserve to have conversations across with the Senate and with the House,” Houlahan said. She pointed to decisive Democratic wins in Tuesday’s elections in New Jersey, Virginia, and elsewhere, saying Johnson was trying to “gaslight the American people about the reality.” Houlahan rejected Republicans’ demands that negotiations begin only after Democrats vote to open the government. “This administration has been completely untrustworthy, has shown over and over again that they do nothing but renege on their promises,” she said. “He should be just as angry as I am. He’s the Speaker of the House, and he has abdicated his authority, his responsibility, the authority and the responsibility of this Congress to be the power of the purse.”",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-bill-expanding-social-security-benefits-for-seniors/,"ICYMI: Fetterman, Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Bill Expanding Social Security Benefits for Seniors",2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,PA,John Fetterman,F000479,www.fetterman.senate.gov,fetterman,https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), to introduce the bicameral Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act, legislation to protect and expand Social Security benefits for older adults. Each year, Social Security benefits are adjusted by the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) formula. But in recent years, benefits have failed to keep up with rising costs and inflation, especially for older Americans. This year’s COLA was announced last week as 2.8 percent — a number that three out of four Americans aged 50 and older say is not enough. The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act directs the Social Security Administration to adjust benefits based on the Consumer Price Index for Americans aged 62 or older (CPI-E), whereas current benefits are based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W). The CPI-E takes into account more of the costs incurred by older Americans, such as medical expenses—making it a more accurate index to use when calculating benefits. “It’s simple, part of the American bargain is the ability to retire with dignity. When we have seniors choosing between medication and basic needs because their Social Security benefits aren’t keeping up with rising costs, we have a serious problem,” said Senator Fetterman. “If you spend a lifetime working and paying into Social Security, you deserve to see those earned benefits. I have always supported our seniors, and our Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act builds on that commitment to do right by them.” “This overdue measure makes necessary adjustments to Social Security benefits—more accurately accounting for rising prices and inflation—to better support older Americans,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Our nation’s seniors are struggling to afford basic necessities like food, medication, and clothing, and the overall cost of living index may not reflect their particular needs. This legislation ensures that older Americans have the support they deserve to live with dignity.” “Americans deserve to retire with dignity, not spend their golden years just trying to get by,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our seniors have spent a lifetime of hard work paying into Social Security, and while these benefits – including the annual cost-of-living adjustment – are a lifeline for millions, the payouts simply aren’t keeping up with rising costs. Our Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act would account for the unique expenses older Americans face and help ensure they have the resources they need so no one has to choose between paying for medication and buying groceries. As the top Democrat on the Senate Aging Committee, I’m determined to pass this legislation and make sure our seniors can live comfortably, with the security and dignity they’ve earned.” “Our seniors are feeling the squeeze of inflation right now, but Social Security’s annual cost-of-living adjustment simply doesn’t reflect their reality,” said Representative Budzinski. “The current formula for Social Security COLAs is based on workers’ cost of living, not retirees’, and overlooks rising costs for essentials like prescription drugs and housing. I’m proud to introduce legislation that ties Social Security adjustments to the Consumer Price Index for Older Americans, which better reflects the costs that seniors actually face. Every American should be able to retire with dignity and security and our bill will help make that a reality.” The legislation is cosponsored in the U.S. Senate by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD). The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act is supported by a number of organizations, including the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Social Security Works, California Alliance for Retired Americans, Alliance for Retired Americans, Justice in Aging, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, National Education Association, National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives, New York StateWide Senior Action Council, Strengthen Social Security Coalition, and Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement. “Too many older Americans are being squeezed by rising prices,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “After a lifetime of hard work, retirees should feel confident that their Social Security benefits are going to ensure they can get by. That’s why AFSCME is proud to support the Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act, which would ensure that benefits keep pace with the cost of living. Workers deserve the freedom to retire with dignity. Thank you to Senator Blumenthal for introducing this critical legislation, and we urge Congress to move this bill forward.” “Social Security’s annual automatic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is among its most important features. But benefits are slowly eroding because the COLA is based on a formula, the CPI-W, that under-measures health care costs. Those costs are currently skyrocketing, with Medicare Part B premiums projected to increase by twice as much as last year. The Boosting Benefits and COLAs for Seniors Act would correct this by incorporating a more accurate formula, the CPI-E. Social Security Works applauds Senator Blumenthal and his colleagues for introducing this important legislation,” said Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-condemns-trump-s-threat-to-defy-court-order-and-starve-families,Rep. Summer Lee Condemns Trump’s Threat to Defy Court Order and Starve Families,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 4, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement after Donald Trumpthreatened to ignore a federal court order requiring the Trump administration to fund Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the ongoing federal government shutdown — a move that would leave millions of children, seniors, and working families without food assistance: “Trump’s decision to openly defy a court order and block food assistance is unconscionable. He is willing to use working Americans as pawns in his political game, attempting to turn their pain into leverage and their hunger into a talking point. These choices send a message that the lives of working families, children, and seniors are expendable if it helps him win a fight. Let’s be clear: the White House has the authority and the funds to support full SNAP benefits for the millions of people who rely on it to feed their children and afford the high grocery prices this administration has only made worse through its chaotic and unstrategic tariffs. “Right now, we are seeing the harm this administration is willing to cause. We see the people they are willing to sacrifice. And we will fight back in the courts, in Congress, and in every community to make sure no president can use hunger as a weapon against the American people.” Congresswoman Lee has been a steadfast champion in the fight against food insecurity. In 2024, she delivered$1 million in community project funding to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support the distribution of 33 million pounds of food to 400,000 low and moderate-income individuals. Last week, Rep. Leeheld a roundtable discussion and press conference with representatives from local food banks and organizations to hear directly from community partners impacted by the loss of SNAP benefits due to federal cuts and the ongoing government shutdown. Recently, Rep. Leejoined over 200 House Democrats in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use contingency reserve dollars to fund SNAP during the government shutdown. In September, Rep. Lee, along with Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), along with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), introduced the Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025, landmark legislation aimed at addressing food insecurity by increasing SNAP benefits and allocating more funds to those with large medical and housing expenses. In August, Rep. Lee joined Just Harvest, State Representatives Emily Kinkead and Abigail Salisbury, and community members impacted by SNAP theft at the Kingsley Association in Pittsburgh to demand urgent federal and state action to combat the rising epidemic of stolen food assistance benefits.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-boyle-evans-scanlon-call-trump-and-johnson-reopen-government-fund,"ICYMI: Boyle, Evans, Scanlon Call on Trump and Johnson to Reopen the Government, Fund SNAP",2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,PA,Brendan F. Boyle,B001296,boyle.house.gov,boyle,https://boyle.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"PHILADELPHIA, PA – Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, joined Representatives Dwight Evans (PA-03) and Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) in calling on Speaker Johnson to immediately reconvene the House of Representatives and bring Members back into voting session. “It is absolutely astounding that for over six weeks now, the House of Representatives has been shut,” said Boyle. “Those who are on the Obamacare exchange here in Pennsylvania, called Pennie, have seen their premiums skyrocket. In addition to that, because of this government shutdown 41 million Americans who rely on SNAP now are not getting it. So, I'm proud again to stand here with my colleagues, Dwight and Mary Gay, to speak with one voice to call on Speaker Johnson to immediately reopen the House of Representatives.” Together, Philadelphia’s three U.S. Representatives visited Bebashi – Transition to Hope’s Philadelphia food pantry and urged the Trump administration to fully fund SNAP and comply with the federal court rulings that found President Trump illegally blocked food assistance. The Representatives were joined by Sebrina Tate, President and CEO of Bebashi - Transition to Hope. At today’s press conference, Boyle also slammed the devastating food assistance cuts in Trump’s Big Ugly Law. “Just a few months ago, right before the 4th of July, despite our no votes the House of Representatives and Senate passed, and President Trump signed a bill that includes the largest cuts to health care in American history,” Boyle continued. “Also in that piece of legislation, $187 billion worth of cuts to SNAP food assistance, also the largest in American history. Why? To help pay for tax breaks that mostly go to the top 1%.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/icymi-fetterman-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-provide-farmers-with-the-right-to-repair/,"ICYMI: Fetterman, Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Provide Farmers with the Right to Repair",2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,PA,John Fetterman,F000479,www.fetterman.senate.gov,fetterman,https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/,scraper,"Legislation would restore farmers’ autonomy to fix their own equipment, boost competition in the agricultural repair market WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) joined Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)in introducing the Freedom for Agricultural Repair and Maintenance Act (FARM Act), bicameral legislation togive farmers the right to repair their own equipment and restore competition in the agricultural repair market. The lawmakers’ bill would require farm equipment manufacturers to share documentation, parts, and software with farmers and independent repair shops, giving farmers back the autonomy to fix their own equipment and support their farms. The bill is led in the House by Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03) and cosponsored by Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO-02). “For farmers across Pennsylvania, a broken tractor right before a harvest can ruin months of hard work. Time is money,” said Senator Fetterman. “Our farmers should have the freedom to repair their own equipment without having to travel hours on hours to the nearest approved service center or being price gouged on repair software subscriptions. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bill so we can help protect farmers and their right to repair.” “Farmers are fixers. It only makes sense that farmers should have the right to repair their own equipment, which is vital to saving money and maintaining operations. But right now, lack of a federal right to repair means that farmers in Vermont have to waste valuable time and resources getting someone else to fix their equipment–even if they can do it themselves,” said Senator Welch. “Our bicameral legislation will help protect farmers from rip-offs and ensure they have the right to fix their own equipment.” “Farmers work tirelessly to feed this country. They shouldn’t have to wait for weeks on end and pay sky-high prices for a manufacturer to fix essential farm equipment that farmers already know how to repair themselves,” said Senator Warren. “Our bill is a commonsense solution: it fights back against the manufacturers’ greed and will save our farmers billions every year in repair costs.” “I’ve heard directly from farmers across Colorado that delays to repairs for their equipment can mean thousands of dollars in lost crops. A national Right to Repair Law is a common-sense solution to ensuring these folks have more options to fix broken machinery in a timely manner,” said Rep. Neguse. “I’m proud to join with my colleagues in introducing the FARM Act and look forward to working together to get it across the finish line.” Manufacturing companies’ exploitation of the equipment repair market creates undue financial hardships for farmers, leaving them without vital functioning equipment for long periods of time. In 2023, U.S. farmers lost an estimated total of $4.2 billion a year as a result of these practices: $3 billion to tractor downtime and $1.2 billion in excess repair costs. The FARM Act defines what type of information Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) are required to provide to make repair accessible. If the OEM does not have the digital or physical tools available, they are required to provide sufficient information to create the tools. This bill also gives the Federal Trade Commission the ability to enforce these requirements and the authority to make rules to assist in the implementation of these requirements. The FARM Act is endorsed by the American Economic Liberties Project, FULU Foundation, National Farmers Union (NFU), and the United States Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG). “As grain farmers, we have very tight planting and harvest schedules. Where we farm, the timing of planting seed is essential. So, when we’re forced to wait days for the equipment dealer to come to the farm for repairs—that only they can do because the information is locked in their computers— we often lose the opportunity to replant on time and have a crop to harvest the following season. When we buy farm equipment, especially expensive investments like tractors, we should have the right and freedom to fully repair it if something goes wrong. Without a right to repair, we’ve seen an increase in labor rates of equipment dealers, which drives farmers deeper into debt and jeopardizes the lives of farm families,” said Todd Hardie, Vermont grain farmer, President of the Northern Grain Growers Collaborative, and Board Member of the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT). “I support Senator Welch’s FARM Act to ensure farmers have the right to repair their equipment.” “The Freedom for Agricultural Repair and Maintenance Act is a major step toward restoring fairness and independence for farmers who just want to fix their own equipment,” said Rob Larew, President, National Farmers Union (NFU). “By ensuring fair and affordable access to the parts, tools, and information they need, this bill levels the playing field for our family farmers and ranchers. We thank Senators Welch, Warren, and Fetterman for their leadership on this issue, and we look forward to working with them to get this bill across the finish line.” “If farm equipment breaks down at the wrong time and farmers can’t get it fixed, they can be forced to watch their crop—and their livelihood—wither on the vine. Too many farmers have told us that they are not able to fix their own equipment, even some that have paid thousands of dollars for repair tools, which the manufacturers intentionally limit. The answer to this problem is simple: Let farmers fix their stuff. We’re grateful to our legislative champions like Sens. Peter Welch, Elizabeth Warren and John Fetterman for standing for farmers, and, frankly, for common sense,” said Nathan Proctor, Senior Director, U.S. PIRG’s Right to Repair Campaign. Senator Fetterman has long been a champion of competition in rural communities and has made farmers a key priority as a senator. In 2022, he was a vocal proponent of farmers’ right to repair, writing in a January 2022 op-ed, “It’s common sense: farmers should have the right to repair the equipment they own, without having to deal with the equipment’s manufacturer. Period.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-shares-stories-western-pennsylvanians-bracing-huge-spike,Congressman Deluzio Shares Stories of Western Pennsylvanians Bracing for Huge Spike in Health Insurance Costs,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"October 31, 2025 Deluzio asked constituents to share their notices of health insurance premium increases—the responses underscore urgent need for congressional negotiation to re-open government & avert healthcare crisis CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) released some of the initial submissions he received from constituents in response to his request to share stories about rising healthcare costs. The dozens of responses received to-date paint a dire picture. “Western Pennsylvanians should be focusing right now on celebrating Halloween or trick-or-treating with their family. Instead, so many are bracing for skyrocketing health insurance premiums that may force them to skip coverage altogether next year,” said Congressman Deluzio. “It doesn’t have to be this way—Congressional Republicans can come to the table with Democrats to hash out a deal that stops this healthcare crisis. But we’re running out of time.” Open enrollment for Pennie, Pennsylvania’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance marketplace, starts tomorrow, November 1st. Congressional Republicans have refused to extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits that made these plans more affordable—and that spike is now reflected in prices Pennie shoppers see. Democrats like Congressman Deluzio are pushing to save these tax credits by including them in a compromise government funding measure. However, Republicans control every level of government in Washington and have shut the government down for almost an entire month because they refuse to return to Washington to hammer out a deal with Democrats to lower healthcare costs and reopen the government. Without congressional action, 24,000 Pennsylvanians in the 17th Congressional District who get their coverage through Pennie can expect to see premiums skyrocket an average of about 75%, or $130 per month. Highlights from the stories shared by Congressman Deluzio’s constituents include: Tim currently pays $550 per month through Pennie and is looking at a new monthly premium of $1,300. He wrote to Congressman Deluzio that this cost hike will be “devastating.” Tim went on to say: “My wife, who is a cancer survivor, lost her job...Her healthcare costs will double, not including additional out-of-pocket costs and a deductible that is 3 times higher than she paid as part of her employer plan.” One couple who wishes to remain anonymous shared a detailed story: “We will either have to pay dramatically more or significantly cut back on the coverage we have. My wife and I are in our 60s (but not yet old enough for Medicare). My wife took early social security after having hip replacement and recognizing that she could not go back to work as a full-time math teacher. I am self-employed right now. We rely on the marketplace for our health insurance and opted for a higher monthly premium plan in order to avoid hard-to-meet deductibles (we needed payment plans with providers after we each had surgery earlier this year and we had insurance through employment then). Health insurance is already our biggest fixed monthly expense. Now we face the prospect of either paying much larger premiums or paying the same for a plan that puts us at risk for huge deductibles and copays.” Stephen currently pays $135 per month for his bronze health insurance plan through Pennie. His current plan’s cost without tax subsidies would be approximately $1,100 per month. He shared that this price hike would “hurt like hell in the wallet! We will have to dip into our savings and cut back (a lot) in other areas to save money.” Tommy wrote that he currently pays $344 per month through Pennie—and he’s been alerted that the price will “double.” He wrote to Congressman Deluzio: “My family will have to go to a cheaper plan with less coverage and hope that everyone stays healthy in 2026.🤞” Marsha pays about $350 per month through Pennie and knows the price will go up, but isn’t exactly sure by how much. She shared: “I’m on a limited income and I’m a mom. I’m not sure how I will be able to pay healthcare premiums.” Another constituent who wishes to remain anonymous already pays $1,000 per month through Pennie and is worried about an increase. They wrote: “I already pay so much, and I am at their mercy, because I have health issues, so must have insurance.” Congressman Deluzio has been consistently and forcefully speaking out about this issue for over a month. He recently met with several of his Western Pennsylvania constituents who get their healthcare through Pennie to hear their stories. Congressman Deluzio will keep pushing Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to bring the U.S. House back to Washington to negotiate a deal to re-open the government and stop healthcare costs from skyrocketing. Speaker Johnson has cancelled all scheduled votes in the U.S. House of Representatives since September 19, 2025. ### Issues: Health",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-deluzio-meets-western-pennsylvanians-worried-about-looming-lapse,"Congressman Deluzio Meets with Western Pennsylvanians Worried about the Looming Lapse of SNAP Food Assistance, People Going Hungry",2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) met with several Western Pennsylvanians who rely on federal food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and are worried how they will put food on the table as funding for SNAP will run out in November because of the federal government shutdown. Congressman Deluzio heard firsthand from his constituents how they and their families could go hungry if urgent action is not taken in Washington. “Thousands of Western PA families are staring down the barrel of a hunger crisis unless the Trump Administration takes immediate action using the emergency funds and authorities Congress has provided,” said Congressman Deluzio. “The Trump Administration has no excuse here—they should stop playing politics and make sure these Western Pennsylvanians do not go hungry.’” Almost 75,000 people in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District are enrolled in SNAP—two million Pennsylvanians use the program. The vast majority of participating households are families with kids, seniors, and people with disabilities, including veterans. Last week, Congressman Deluzio joined 213 of his colleagues on a letter pushing the Agriculture Secretary to use contingency funds that Congress set aside for emergency situations like this, along with existing legal authority to transfer funds, to keep SNAP benefits flowing for November. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro joined a lawsuit against the Trump Administration seeking to force the use of these contingency funds to avoid a shutoff in SNAP benefits. “If the Trump Administration refuses to use existing contingency funds and transfer authority to fund November SNAP benefits, they are choosing to rip away food assistance from 42 million Americans. That’s on top of their $186 billion cut to the SNAP earlier this year. Roughly 16 million kids will go hungry. It's unacceptable to me to play politics with America’s hungry seniors, veterans, and families,” added Congressman Deluzio. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://houlahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4804,The Democratic Women’s Caucus calls for emergency SNAP funding,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,PA,Chrissy Houlahan,H001085,houlahan.house.gov,houlahan,https://houlahan.house.gov/press/documentquery.aspx,page_html,"Calling the decision to halt nutrition funding that feeds 42 million Americans – 2 million of them her fellow Pennsylvanians – “not a budget problem,” but “a moral problem,” U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and her colleagues on the congressional Democratic Women’s Caucus urged the federal government to maintain operations of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program through contingency funding. “There is a $5 billion contingency fund sitting at the Department of Agriculture right now, created for emergencies just like this one, that can be legally used to fund SNAP right now,” said Houlahan, who chairs the caucus’s Servicewomen, Women Veterans, & Military Families Task Force, in a Thursday afternoon press call. “They can unfreeze this money … They can feed our veterans and they can feed our families today; they’re just choosing not to.” If no action is taken, SNAP will become the latest victim of the month-long federal government shutdown on Nov. 1, when existing funding is due to expire. The women’s caucus has spotlighted this issue because a majority of recipients – 26 million – are women and girls. Nearly 40% of those relying on the program for food are children, another 20% are elderly and an additional 10% have a disability. “Here in Pennsylvania’s Sixth (Congressional) District … 88,000 of our neighbors could go hungry – 28,000 people in Chester County and nearly 60,000 in Berks,” said Houlahan. More than a million U.S. veterans – 60,000 of them in Pennsylvania – also rely on SNAP, as well as 13% of current military households, according to Houlahan, a third-generation military veteran and a ranking member of the Military Personnel Subcommittee for the Committee on Armed Services. “In just days, we will collectively be celebrating Veterans Day,” she added. “What does it say about this administration that it’s willing to let more than a million veterans go hungry on the very day that we purportedly honor their service?” Her caucus colleague, U.S. Rep. Jahana Hayes of Connecticut, the ranking member on the Nutrition Subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee, pointed out that SNAP benefits have never been allowed to lapse since the program’s inception. During the current impasse, however, the federal government has thus far not committed to alternative funding arrangements. “In every other previous shutdown, there has always been a commitment to states to be reimbursed, or cards had been preloaded … to make sure that people did not go hungry while these negotiations were being worked out,” said Hayes, who introduced herself as a former SNAP recipient. One after another, the caucus members decried the Trump administration’s financial priorities, including restoring funding to the military during the shutdown. “He’s sending $40 billion to Argentina, but refusing to spend the $5 billion USDA has in the bank for SNAP. USDA also has another $30 billion in contingency funds it could utilize,” said Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez of New Mexico. Houlahan offered a personal testimony of the importance of nutrition: Early in her career, she taught chemistry at a school where 98% of students qualified for free and reduced lunch. “When partisan politics hurt military families and hurt people in my district – and hurt the kinds of kids that I taught – that’s not an abstract concept to me,” she said. “That’s personal.”",1,2026-04-08T14:14:11Z,2026-04-08T14:23:06Z https://dean.house.gov/2025/10/congresswoman-dean-urges-trump-administration-to-remain-committed-to-ceasefire-and-long-term-peace,Congresswoman Dean Urges Trump Administration to Remain Committed to Ceasefire and Long-Term Peace,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,PA,Madeleine Dean,D000631,dean.house.gov,dean,https://dean.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, led 90 Members of Congress in a letter to President Trump in support of the ceasefire in Gaza and urging sustained American leadership to achieve further diplomatic breakthroughs. The Members of Congress wrote following Israeli strikes in Gaza overnight that killed at least 100 people — a stark reminder of how tenuous the current moment is and the need for the Trump Administration’s continued engagement and unwavering commitment to long-term peace for Israel and Palestine. “We welcome the implementation of the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza and the return of the hostages. Sustained American pressure is critical to achieving further diplomatic breakthroughs. We urge you not to ease any leverage until all phases of the agreement come into full effect,” the lawmakers wrote. “As we are already witnessing, the end to the war also marks the beginning of a longer and far more difficult process toward building durable peace, security, and stability.” Specifically, the lawmakers call for the Trump Administration to: Work with regional stakeholders to establish an effective replacement for Hamas, with the goal of ultimately transitioning control of Gaza to a reformed Palestinian Authority; Support the IDF’s full withdrawal from Gaza; Oppose settlement expansion and settler violence in the West Bank; Invest long-term in Gaza’s reconstruction; and Lead efforts to negotiate a comprehensive regional agreement that includes a pathway to Palestinian statehood. “We stand at a major historical hinge point. If your administration moves urgently and continues to use the leverage it has, we can move toward a future where both Israelis and Palestinians live in freedom, security, and dignity in states of their own. We urge quick action and sustained and relentless engagement to implement the next phases of your 20-point plan,” the lawmakers concluded. Read the full letter here. Rep. Madeleine Dean is a mother, grandmother, attorney, professor, former four-term member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and U.S. Representative for the Fourth District of Pennsylvania. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases/deluzio-introduces-bill-help-local-communities-fight-flooding-manage,"Deluzio Introduces Bill to Help Local Communities Fight Flooding, Manage Stormwater and Sewer Overflows",2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,PA,Christopher R. Deluzio,D000530,deluzio.house.gov,deluzio,https://deluzio.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARNEGIE, PA – Transportation and Infrastructure Committee member Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) introduced the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Grant Reauthorization Act. This bill would reauthorize around $350 million in federal grants to help local municipalities fight flooding and manage and maintain their water systems. “No matter the size of a city, borough, or township: people in all types of communities should have a reliable water system that protects their drinking water and prevents dangerous flooding and stormwater overflow,” said Congressman Deluzio. “I’m introducing the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Grant Reauthorization Act to help municipalities pay for important, but often expensive, upgrades and maintenance to their water systems that help keep communities healthy.” This reauthorizes an existing Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program (the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Grant program) in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act or the Clean Water Act. Managing the cleanliness and volume of stormwater entering local water systems can be a huge problem and financial burden for smaller communities. Specifically, the funds can be used for the planning, design, and construction of combined sewer overflows (CSOs), sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), and stormwater management projects. More details are available here. The full text of Congressman Deluzio’s Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Grant Reauthorization Act is available here. Western Pennsylvania is no stranger to flooding, with heavy rains leading to streets full of water, power outages, expensive property damage to homes and businesses, and sometimes even tragic loss of life. With this bill, Congressman Deluzio is continuing his work to advance federal policy options to help strengthen America’s infrastructure. The Congressman is also concerned about the economic strain that extreme weather and storms can bring on communities. Following a storm in the spring of 2025, Congressman Deluzio polled his constituents on the regional power outages that disrupted a lot of families across his congressional district. You can read the report of Rep. Deluzio's survey and findings on his website. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-summer-lee-local-food-banks-discuss-snap-cuts-and-lapse-impact-on-western-pa-families,"Rep. Summer Lee, Local Food Banks Discuss SNAP Cuts and Lapse Impact on Western PA Families",2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,PA,Summer L. Lee,L000602,summerlee.house.gov,summerlee,https://summerlee.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Photos (Dropbox) PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 28, 2025 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) held a roundtable discussion and press conference with representatives from local food banks and organizations to hear directly from community partners impacted by the loss of SNAP benefits due to federal cuts and the ongoing government shutdown. The Congresswoman was joined by Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (GPCFB), Westmoreland Food Bank (WCFB), Jewish Family and Community Services, Rainbow Kitchen, Project Destiny, and Just Harvest. The conversation comes as SNAP benefits are set to be delayed at the end of the month for 42 million Americans nationwide, including 2 million in Pennsylvania, due to the shutdown and the Trump administration’s refusal to use its emergency contingency reserve funds or transfer authority to provide benefits. In March, the Trump administration slashed more than a billion dollars in funding used to purchase food for food banks, schools, and childcare centers. A month later, it cut another $500 million from The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). In July, Trump and Republicans passed their so-called One Big Beautiful Bill that made the largest cuts in history to SNAP—a whopping $186 billion—while giving tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. “For years, food banks have struggled to keep up with rising demand. Instead of strengthening the programs that help feed our communities, the Trump administration has spent the last several months dismantling them—including making the largest cuts in history to SNAP this past summer. Now, this Republican-led shutdown is putting an even bigger strain on our communities,” said Congresswoman Lee. “The administration can use SNAP’s billions of dollars in its contingency reserve to fund the program under this shutdown. They must support our most vulnerable families.” ""Pennsylvania food banks are facing a dual crisis with a state budget impasse and the federal shutdown threatening the on-time delivery of SNAP benefits,” said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. “Our charitable feeding network is intended to complement, not replace, federal nutrition programs. With a surge of people coming to us for help in anticipation of a lapse of benefits, food banks and local food pantries need help now. Learn more and give today at pittsburghfoodbank.org and westmorelandfoodbank.org."" “The Westmoreland Food Bank serves 15,000 households regularly. As of July, 46,270 individuals in our county relied on SNAP. For every meal a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine,” said Jennifer Miller, Chief Executive Officer with the Westmoreland Food Bank. “We are here to serve—but we are not designed to replace federal nutrition programs. We do not have the capacity to absorb this level of influx.” ""It’s deeply disturbing that the USDA is now claiming that the contingency funds cannot be used — even though earlier plans indicated that they could. Every action possible must be taken to ensure that the 42 million people who rely on SNAP have access to that lifeline. We must stop playing politics with people's lives,” said Ann Sanders, Director of Public Benefits, Policy and Programs, Just Harvest. “Rainbow Kitchen Community Services has served the Steel Valley for over 40 years. 2,000 individuals that rely on our services represent highly vulnerable populations including children, seniors, people with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness. Federal funding from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, a funding source we have relied on for decades to provide a hundred hot meals per day, has already been halted this year while our soup kitchen experiences a 30% increase in clients. This impending pause on SNAP benefits represents another devastating blow to everyone and will harshly impact our neighbors, friends, employees, coworkers and those already struggling to put food on the table,” said Matthew Y. Bolton, Executive Director, Rainbow Kitchen Community Services. Congresswoman Lee has been a steadfast champion in the fight against food insecurity. In 2024, she delivered $1 million in community project funding to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to support the distribution of 33 million pounds of food to 400,000 low and moderate-income individuals. Last week, Rep. Lee joined over 200 House Democrats in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use contingency reserve dollars to fund SNAP during the government shutdown. In September, Rep. Lee, along with Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), along with Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), introduced the Closing the Meal Gap Act of 2025, landmark legislation aimed at addressing food insecurity by increasing SNAP benefits and allocating more funds to those with large medical and housing expenses. In August, Rep. Lee joined Just Harvest, State Representatives Emily Kinkead and Abigail Salisbury, and community members impacted by SNAP theft at the Kingsley Association in Pittsburgh to demand urgent federal and state action to combat the rising epidemic of stolen food assistance benefits. Photos from the visit from be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z