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://bost.house.gov/2026/9/bost-announces-1-million-grant-for-robinson-water-treatment-plant,BOST ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION GRANT FOR ROBINSON WATER TREATMENT PLANT,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $1 million federal grant for the Robinson Palestine Water Commission to construct a new water treatment plant and campus.

“Reliable access to clean, safe drinking water is something every Southern Illinoisan should be able to count on,” said Bost. “This investment will make long-overdue upgrades to an aging water infrastructure that many local families depend upon for the water they use every day.""

The grant will help the Robinson Palestine Water Commission modernize its water treatment system, including a new treatment plan, a new administration building, and a storage building.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/9/icymi-lahood-delbene-introduce-bipartisan-meals-for-communities-tax-credit-act-to-encourage-charitable-prepared-meal-donations,"ICYMI: LaHood, DelBene introduce Bipartisan Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act to Encourage Charitable Prepared Meal Donations",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Susan DelBene (WA-01) introduced the bipartisan Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act. This legislation would encourage restaurants and retail food establishments to donate prepared meals to charitable organizations serving communities across the country by creating a new tax credit for prepared meal donations.

The legislation is supported by ReThink Food, a nonprofit organization that works to reduce food waste and food insecurity by transforming surplus food into nutritious meals for communities in need. Representative Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) also joined the legislation as an original cosponsor.

“Restaurants and food retailers in Illinois and throughout the country have an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their communities by donating prepared meals to organizations that can put them directly into the hands of people in need,” said Rep. LaHood. “The Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act provides a commonsense incentive for businesses to be charitable and turn surplus prepared food into meals for families and individuals who need them. By encouraging these donations, we can help strengthen our communities and make sure good food reaches the people who need it most.”

“Millions of families across the country are struggling to reliably put food on the table because of rising grocery bills and a more expensive economy. Our food pantries and local nonprofits are stretched thin and cannot meet the demand in their communities. Meanwhile, restaurants are also contending with higher overhead costs and fewer customers,” said Rep. DelBene. “This legislation helps address both problems by providing restaurants with incentives to donate prepared meals directly to nonprofits serving hungry families. It will support restaurants, their workers, and families who don’t have enough to eat.”

""Restaurants are more than places where people eat – they are a vital part of our community infrastructure, with the kitchens, talent, and local relationships to help address food insecurity at scale,” said Matt Jozwiak, Founder and CEO of Rethink Food. “The Meals for Communities Tax Credit creates a practical way to unlock that capacity, helping local restaurants stay strong while providing nutritious, chef-prepared meals to neighbors who need them. We’re grateful to Representatives LaHood and DelBene for recognizing that supporting small businesses and strengthening food access can, and should, go hand in hand.”

Background:

Under current law, businesses and individuals can receive tax deductions for bulk food donations based on the value of the donated goods. However, no deduction or credit exists for prepared meals donated to nonprofit organizations that take into consideration the added costs of food preparation.

The Meals for Communities Tax Credit Act establishes a new nonrefundable credit for eligible businesses that donate prepared meals to charitable organizations. Specifically, the bill would:

Provide a tax credit equal to 50% of the fair market value of qualified prepared meal donations, with a maximum credit of $7 per meal, adjusted to inflation;

Cap the total allowable credit at $50,000 per year;

Include guardrails to prevent businesses from double dipping by claiming both the prepared meal credit and the existing charitable deduction for any food donation; and

Retain the same health and food safety standards for kitchens and donated meals as already required for commercial restaurant service.

To view the text of the bill, click HERE.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/9/lahood-s-change-act-passes-out-of-the-ways-and-means-committee,LaHood's CHANGE Act Passes out of the Ways and Means Committee,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – The House Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to advance the Concentrating on High Value Alzheimer’s Needs to Get to an End (CHANGE) Act, which was included as a provision in the Alzheimer's Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act. This bipartisan legislation was led by Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07). The CHANGE Act coupled with ASAP Act works to remove roadblocks to care, support early detection efforts for Alzheimer's, and improve early assessment and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.

“Alzheimer’s impacts millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can to support the search for a cure. This bipartisan bill provides help to patients and clinicians through expanded early detection support and improved data collection,” said Congressman LaHood. “The CHANGE Act, coupled with the ASAP Act, will strengthen existing tools to help streamline and broaden the ability for earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's and other forms dementia. I thank Representatives Sánchez, Bilirakis, and Matsui for their collaboration on this critical legislation, and my Ways and Means colleagues for advancing this bill as we work to find ways to support patients, their families, and caregivers.”

“This is deeply personal for me. I lost both of my parents to Alzheimer’s, and I know firsthand how much earlier detection could have meant for our family,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “Advancing this bill out of committee brings us one step closer to giving other families that chance. I’m grateful to my Ways and Means colleagues for passing our bipartisan bill and will keep fighting to get it signed into law.”

“Alzheimer’s touches millions of families, and identifying the disease early can make a meaningful difference for patients and their loved ones,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “The CHANGE Act brings us closer to giving healthcare providers the tools to recognize the warning signs sooner and connect families with the care and support they need. I’m proud this bipartisan legislation is moving forward so more families can have more time, better care, and greater hope.”

“Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that has touched my family personally, so I understand the tremendous toll it takes not only on patients, but also on the loved ones who care for them,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “As promising new treatments continue to emerge, early detection and diagnosis are more important than ever. The bipartisan CHANGE Act will help ensure patients and their doctors have better tools to identify cognitive decline earlier, when interventions may have the greatest impact. I am pleased to see this important legislation advance out of Committee as part of a broader package, bringing us another step closer to improving care, preserving quality of life, and ultimately finding a cure for this terrible disease.”

“Annual cognitive screening is critical to ensuring early diagnosis of dementia. The CHANGE Act will ensure primary care providers use validated tools to catch cognitive impairment early, when patients and families can act on it. Early diagnosis means more time for families and patients to plan, and the opportunity to consider treatments options or enrolling in a clinical trial. We thank Reps. LaHood, Sanchez, and Buchanan for their leadership and urge Congress to move forward with ensuring CHANGE and ASAP become law together,” said Catherine Patterson, Acting COO, UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.

""Rep. LaHood has been a persistent voice for early Alzheimer's detection, and his leadership on the ASAP Act is helping clear the path for Medicare to cover the blood-based screening tests families need,"" said Robert Egge, Alzheimer's Association chief public policy officer and executive director, AIM. ""We also appreciate his work on the CHANGE Act, further demonstrating his commitment to the Alzheimer's community.""

Background:

The CHANGE Act would support, incentivize, and authorize high-value Alzheimer’s patient care, and support caregivers and research initiatives to improve prevention and treatment for the disease. Specifically, it would require physicians to use any of the National Institute on Aging’s cognitive impairment detection tools to help detect, refer and diagnose Alzheimer’s and related dementias in their earliest stages.

Specifically, it would require physicians to conduct cognitive screenings at a patient's annual Medicare wellness visit by using any of the National Institute on Aging’s cognitive impairment detection tools. With these annual screenings, physicians can track patients' cognitive abilities overtime to help detect and diagnose Alzheimer’s and related dementias in their earliest stages.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-lee-introduce-bill-protect-student-data-far-left-voter-operations,"Miller, Lee Introduce Bill To Protect Student Data From Far-Left Voter Operations",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the Student Voter Data Protection Act to protect college students’ personal information from being shared without their consent for partisan voter registration efforts. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) is leading the legislation in the Senate.

The bill amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to explicitly prohibit private student data from being shared for voter registration efforts without the student’s consent and establishes an opt-in standard for such disclosures.

“The Student Voter Data Protection Act puts a hard stop to Left-wing data harvesting, making student data strictly opt-in and cutting off the pipeline to non-consensual personal information,” said Congresswoman Miller. “I am proud to lead this effort in the House alongside Senator Mike Lee to stand up for our students' basic privacy rights.”

""Partisan organizations should not have access to college students' personal data under the guise of civic engagement,"" said Senator Lee. ""Our bill closes the loopholes that allow institutions to disregard the consent of their students. If leftist groups want a student’s info for electioneering, they can do it the old fashioned way: standing on campus with a clipboard.""

The Student Voter Data Protection Act would:",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/9/bost-announces-2-3-million-in-faa-grants-for-southern-illinois-airports,BOST ANNOUNCES $2.3 MILLION IN FAA GRANTS FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS AIRPORTS,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration has awarded grants totaling over $2.3 million to enhance safety and infrastructure improvements at Veterans Airport in Marion and MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah.

“Southern Illinois is emerging as a transportation hub for our region, and Veterans Airport and MidAmerica Airport are critical transportation assets,” said Bost. “These investments will help ensure both airports have safe and reliable infrastructure they need to continue protecting travelers and creating economic opportunities for the region.""

Veterans Airport will receive $1,176,548 to purchase a new aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle, along with protective equipment and medical kits to enhance safety. MidAmerica Airport will receive $1,149,763 to bring the surrounding landscape into conformity with current FAA standards.

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/8/lahood-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-access-to-low-interest-mortgages-for-first-time-homebuyers,"LaHood, Colleagues introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Low-Interest Mortgages for First-Time Homebuyers",2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Blake Moore (UT-01), and Tom Suozzi (NY-01) introduced the First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act, bipartisan legislation to expand access to low-interest mortgages for first-time, low- to medium-income homebuyers.

“Rising housing costs are being felt in rural, urban, and suburban communities across Illinois,” said Rep. LaHood. ""The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will help more first-time homebuyers access affordable, low-interest mortgages without taking resources away from other critical housing programs. By expanding access to financing, we can help more hardworking families achieve homeownership, strengthen our communities, and build long-term financial security. I'm proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance practical policies that make the American Dream more attainable."" ""Too many working families and first-time homebuyers are locked out of homeownership by high mortgage rates and rising housing costs,"" said Rep. Panetta. ""Our bipartisan First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act would remove Mortgage Revenue Bonds from the Private Activity Bond cap, allowing California to offer qualified homebuyers lower-interest mortgages while preserving resources for affordable rental housing. Housing affordability is no longer just a coastal issue nor just a Democratic issue, but an issue that requires this type of bipartisan solution for working families all across our country.” ""Homeownership is becoming increasingly out of reach for young families,” said Rep. Moore. “Removing Mortgage Revenue Bonds from the Private Activity Bond cap will make housing more accessible by allowing states to offer additional lower-interest mortgages to qualifying families, opening the door to homeownership for more Utahns and Americans across the nation. I’m proud to co-lead the First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act to lower the barrier to entry for homeownership."" “Too many Americans are being priced out of homeownership,” said Rep. Suozzi. “The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act will make it easier for states and local governments to issue more mortgage revenue bonds, therefore lowering borrowing costs for more first-time and low- and middle-income homebuyers. I’m proud to co-lead this commonsense bill to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for more families.” The legislation is supported by the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), the National Council of State Housing Agencies (NCSHA), the Council of Development Finance Agencies (CDFA), the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), and RBC Capital Markets. “This year alone, the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has helped more than 3,000 families purchase their first home through our down payment assistance programs,” said IHDA Executive Director Kristin Faust. “With the passage of this legislation, IHDA will be able to provide even greater support through enhanced assistance and lower interest rates, doubling the number of homebuyers we can assist in overcoming the hurdles to homeownership. This bill will directly increase buyers’ purchasing power, help the missing middle, and lower monthly mortgage expenses - creating more homes for families, strengthening communities, and stimulating local economies.” “The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act is the most significant bipartisan federal legislation to lower the cost of homeownership for first-time home buyers in decades,” said NCSHA Executive Director Stockton Williams. “The bill would provide lower-interest home mortgage loans to hundreds of thousands of working households who are ready to become homeowners but for today’s relatively high-rate environment.” “This bill represents a transformational opportunity for homeownership in America at a time when the affordability crisis has never been greater,” said Cory Hoeppner, Head of National Housing Group at RBC Capital Markets. “The ability for State Housing Finance Agencies to offer significantly more lower rate mortgages to first time homebuyers will help boost the U.S. real estate market.”

“Increasing resources for programs that enable Americans to purchase their first home is critical. The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act will ensure that state housing finance agencies can fully fund affordable homeownership programs. We commend Reps. LaHood, Moore, Panetta, and Suozzi for working to make the American dream of homeownership more attainable,"" said Bill Owens, Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders.

Background:

Mortgage Revenue Bonds are a longstanding financing tool used by state and local housing agencies to support affordable homeownership opportunities – particularly for first-time, low- to moderate-income homebuyers. These bonds help reduce borrowing costs and expand access to below-market mortgage financing.

Under current law, mortgage bonds are subject to annual Private Activity Bond (PAB) volume caps, which limit the amount of financing states can provide each year. In many states, growing housing demand and rising home prices have strained these caps and reduced the availability of affordable mortgage assistance programs.

The First-Time Homebuyer Affordability Act would exempt qualified mortgage bonds from the PAB cap – expanding financing capacity and allow housing agencies to better meet housing needs in their communities.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/7/bost-responds-to-state-plan-to-cut-services-at-choate-mental-health-center-in-anna,BOST RESPONDS TO STATE PLAN TO CUT SERVICES AT CHOATE MENTAL HEALTH CENTER IN ANNA,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today denounced plans for the Illinois Department of Human Services to significantly downsize operations at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna. The facility's intellectual and developmental disabilities general units will close by September 30th, with its 75 civil mental health beds phased down by March 2027. The Choate campus will only have a 40-bed developmental disabilities unit and state administrative offices remaining.

###",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/7/bost-votes-for-defense-authorization-bill,BOST VOTES FOR DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION BILL,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act, legislation that authorizes $1.15 trillion for the next fiscal year for national defense, including full funding for Boeing’s MQ-25 Stingray built in Mascoutah, and provides a pay raise to servicemembers.

""Peace through strength isn't just a slogan,"" said Bost. ""It’s about having the factories, shipyards, and supply chains to produce the equipment to keep us safe and never depending on our adversaries for the tools our troops need. I voted for this bill to bring defense production back home, strengthen our deterrence abroad, and give our servicemembers a well-earned pay raise, along with better housing and childcare. There’s nothing more ‘America First’ than that.""

The Fiscal Year 2027 NDAA includes:

$1.15 trillion authorized for national defense

A 5 to 7 percent servicemember pay raise, plus better housing, education, and childcare for military families

Full funding for the MQ-25 Stingray, built in Mascoutah, Illinois, at $513.3 million, the full amount requested

Multiyear procurement of F-35 and F-15EX aircraft, Arleigh Burke class destroyers, and Virginia class submarines

Army 155mm artillery production ramped to 100,000 rounds per month

Stronger nuclear deterrence and missile defense against China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea

Billions cut in waste, driving toward a clean Pentagon audit within 24 months

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/7/lahood-supports-fy27-national-defense-authorization-act,LaHood Supports FY27 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will rebuild America's defense industrial base, support our servicemembers and their families, and strengthen national security.

“The FY2027 NDAA strengthens our national security, provides the men and women who serve our country with the resources they require, and improves our ability to counter the malign actions of bad actors around the world,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""With ever-evolving threats and foreign adversaries constantly working to undermine and harm the United States, this bill ensures that our military and intelligence community have the tools they need to handle any threat. I was proud to support the inclusion of the SAVE America Act to bolster our election integrity, which goes hand in hand with strengthening our national security. I will always vote for legislation that keeps Americans safe and supports the brave men and women who protect our freedoms and our nation.""

Background:

The bill authorizes approximately 1.15 trillion in national defense spending. The spending includes allocations for rebuilding America’s defense industrial base, restocking our munitions stockpiles, modernizing our shipbuilding aircraft, and building up our anti-drone defense capabilities. The bill also includes provisions to secure U.S. supply chains from China export controls, expand small business participation in defense manufacturing, and improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a pay raise of 5-7%. The NDAA also renames the Department of Defense to the Department of War, cuts nearly 30 million in wasteful spending, and requires a full financial audit within 24 months. The House-passed NDAA includes the SAVE America Act, advancing election integrity alongside other national security priorities. Congressman LaHood has supported the SAVE America Act three times previously in the House.

Rep. LaHood's Priorities included in the FY2027 NDAA:

Prohibiting the Procurement of Semiconductors manufactured on silicon carbide wafers in the People's Republic of China

The U.S. has designated silicon carbide (SiC) as a critical material. China dominates the global SiC industry.

Rep. LaHood introduced an amendment that supports building out a robust domestic supply chain of SiC to combat the CCP’s state-subsidized market strategy to control the entire SiC semiconductor supply chain.

The amendment:

Directs the Secretary of Defense to revise the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement to prohibit the procurement of non-commercial silicon carbide-based semiconductors manufactured in China;

Requires the Pentagon to report back to Congress on American companies that manufacture said chips and the pressure they’re facing from Chinese competition;

Pushes for U.S allies to keep Chinese manufactured chips and semiconductors out of their own defense supply chains, and further direct a broader strategy to stop China from dominating this part of the tech industry.

Rep. LaHood serves on the several committees including the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the U.S and the Chinese Communist Party. Across these roles, Rep. LaHood has focused on strengthening American’s national security and supply chains, countering the threat posed by the CCP, while also cutting wasteful federal spending.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/7/lahood-supports-aadapt-act-to-better-support-alzheimer-s-and-dementia-patients,LaHood Supports AADAPT Act to Better Support Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) spoke on the House floor in favor of the House-passed H.R. 3747 the Accelerating Access to Dementia & Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act. The passage of this legislation marks a significant milestone in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The bipartisan AADAPT Act improves educational resources for health care workers, allowing them to better support individuals and families living with these dementias. Congressman LaHood co-led the bill alongside Rep. Troy Balderson (OH-12), Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), and Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20).

“Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases impact too many individuals and families throughout America and Illinois’ 16th Congressional District,” said Rep. LaHood. “As co-chair of the Alzheimer's Working Group, I am proud to co-lead legislation like the AADAPT Act to strengthen support for patients and ensure our local primary care providers have the specialized training they need to treat, diagnose, and care for those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. I thank my colleagues in the House for supporting this critical piece of legislation and I urge my colleagues in the Senate to send the bill to the President’s desk so we can enhance the quality of care and strengthen our support for patients and their families.”

“New treatments and new diagnostic tools are transforming what is possible for people living with Alzheimer’s. The AADAPT Act ensures that primary care providers across the country — especially in rural and underserved communities — have the resources they need to bring that progress to their patients. We thank the bipartisan champions of this legislation for helping make that possible,” said Robert Egge, Alzheimer’s Association chief public policy officer and AIM president.

Watch Rep. LaHood's Full Remarks Below:

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease impacts over seven million Americans. However, many primary care providers, especially those serving rural or underserved populations, report they lack the proper resources and additional training necessary to diagnose and treat Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Today, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are under-detected in the primary care setting about 50 percent of the time.

The AADAPT Act ensures that individuals and families facing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia receive earlier support, accurate information, and care that reflects their needs. This legislation is a critical step toward closing the diagnosis gap and reducing care disparities in rural communities.",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/7/bost-announces-13-million-for-southern-illinois-truck-parking,BOST ANNOUNCES $13 MILLION FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS TRUCK PARKING,2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Illinois Department of Transportation more than $13 million in BUILD grant funding to expand truck parking at two Southern Illinois rest areas. The Fort Massac Rest Area in Massac County will be reconstructed to increase truck parking from 19 to as many as 64 stalls and add up to four family-assist restrooms and ADA-compliant stalls. The Salt Kettle Rest Area in Vermilion County will gain up to 41 new truck stalls, including four ADA-compliant stalls, along with additional road improvements.

""I grew up in a family trucking business, so I know what it means when a driver is running on fumes with nowhere safe to pull over,"" said Bost. ""This investment builds accessible parking right here in Southern Illinois and gives our truck drivers a safe place to rest. I was glad to back this project and work with federal officials to increase federal funding for this public safety improvement.""

###",1,2026-07-10T08:20:04Z,2026-07-10T08:21:18Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-millers-screen-act-part-child-online-safety-package,House Passes Rep. Miller’s SCREEN Act as Part of Child Online Safety Package,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Kids Internet and Digital Safety (KIDS) Act, a comprehensive legislative package to strengthen online protections for children. The package includes Congresswoman Mary Miller's Shielding Children's Retinas from Egregious Exposure on the Net (SCREEN) Act.

The SCREEN Act establishes a national age-verification requirement for commercial websites that distribute obscene material online.

""Today's internet has made explicit sexual content more accessible than ever before, and the House took an important step today to protect America's children,"" said Congresswoman Miller. ""This is a major victory for parents and families across America. I'm grateful to Chairman Guthrie for advancing my legislation as part of the KIDS Act and for taking a stand to restore accountability online.""

Nearly 80 percent of American children are exposed to pornography before reaching adulthood, with research linking early exposure to anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, distorted views of relationships, and other harmful developmental outcomes.

The legislation follows the Supreme Court's decision upholding Texas' age-verification law, affirming that protecting children from online obscene material with age-verification requirements is constitutional.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-introduces-legislation-to-expand-healthcare-options-for-families,LaHood Introduces Legislation to Expand Healthcare Options for Families,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) introduced the Health Savings for Families Act. This legislation would allow individuals to maintain a Health Savings Account (HSA) even if the individual’s spouse is enrolled in a Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), giving patients more choice and control of their own healthcare dollars.

""As we continue our to work to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, I was proud to introduce the Health Savings for Families Act,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""This legislation is a commonsense policy that will help Americans have more control and choice over their healthcare dollars. Instead of penalizing families for responsibly managing their money, the Health Savings for Families Act removes an unnecessary barrier to allow couples to access healthcare services and spend their money how they see fit.""

Background:

Under current law, FSAs can be used to reimburse expenses for an individual and their spouses and dependents. This eligibility for FSA benefits disqualifies an otherwise eligible FSA enrollee’s spouse from contributing to an HSA, even when each spouse is covered under a separate health plan.

The Health Savings for Families Act fixes this flaw, allowing spouses of FSA enrollees the option to contribute to a separate HSA plan, giving families more flexibility and control over their healthcare decisions.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-congratulates-gregory-gilmore-as-new-u-s-attorney-for-the-central-district-of-illinois,LaHood Congratulates Gregory Gilmore as New U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois,2026-06-08,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement in reaction to the swearing in of Gregory Gilmore as the U.S. attorney for the Central District of Illinois.

""Throughout his career, Gregory Gilmore has displayed tremendous integrity, professionalism, and commitment to the rule of law,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""He is an excellent choice to head the Central District of Illinois as U.S. Attorney and it was an honor to support his nomination for the role. I have the utmost confidence he will lead with fairness and work tirelessly to serve and protect the citizens of the Central District.""

Background:

Gilmore has served the office since 1994 in a variety of roles including, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, and civil chief, criminal chief, and criminal supervisor of the Springfield division. He was nominated by President Trump on January 13th, confirmed by the Senate on May 18th, and sworn in on June 1st.",1,2026-06-09T06:27:37Z,2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-budzinski-introduce-bill-to-support-veterans-battling-parkinson-s,"LaHood, Budzinski Introduce Bill to Support Veterans Battling Parkinson's",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced the Boxing Therapy for Parkinson’s Access Act to expand access to evidence-based boxing programs for veterans and individuals living with Parkinson's.

""I was fortunate to recently visit a Rock Steady Boxing class at K-Fit Minooka to listen to members' personal stories and see firsthand how this program helps individuals manage Parkinson’s symptoms,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""Boxing therapy significantly improves mobility and helps those with Parkinson’s remain more independent in their daily lives. I am grateful to Congresswoman Budzinski for joining me to introduce the Boxing Therapy for Parkinson's Access Act to ensure that all veterans have access to this therapy to slow the progress of Parkinson's and reclaim their lives from this disease. We owe veterans that and much more."" ""Our veterans sacrificed so much for our country, and we owe it to them to make sure they get the care and support they need following their service,"" said Rep. Budzinski. ""For some with Parkinson’s and movement disorders that looks like access to boxing-based exercise classes that can be critical for improving mobility, as well as supporting mental health. I’m proud to help lead this bill, that will help more veterans access these services freely without having to worry about the financial burden."" ""Access to an innovative wellness program like Rock Steady Boxing improves mobility, mental health, and overall quality of life for those diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease or similar movement disorders. Reimbursing veterans for participation in this program would remove financial barriers to a proven, community-based program that complements traditional medical care and supports long-term wellness. Supporting this legislation demonstrates a commitment to providing veterans with effective resources that promote mobility, independence, and connection."" said Senior Services Plus CEO, Theresa Collins.

“The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) stands behind veterans living with Parkinson’s disease in its support for expanding access to exercise and movement-based programs, like boxing,” said Leslie A. Chambers, President & CEO, APDA. “Exercise is a critical component of Parkinson’s care and evidence shows it can help people maintain mobility, balance, strength, function, and quality of life. For the more than 110,000 veterans living with Parkinson’s disease, The Boxing Therapy for Parkinson’s Access Act is an important step toward increasing access and choice for veterans seeking programs that support function, independence, and overall well-being.”

“Research consistently links exercise to reduced Parkinson’s risk and slower disease progression,” said Dan Feehan, chief policy and government affairs officer at The Michael J. Fox Foundation. “That’s why the Boxing Therapy for Parkinson’s Access Act will be an important step to ensure that military veterans living with Parkinson’s have access to the exercise they need to live well. We’re grateful to Representatives LaHood and Budzinski for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to supporting more than 110,000 veterans living with Parkinson’s disease in the United States.” “The Boxing Therapy for Parkinson’s Access Act is an important step in expanding access to exercise programs for veterans living with Parkinson’s disease. Boxing classes and other exercise opportunities are a vital part of Parkinson’s disease management, helping maintain mobility, coordination, and overall quality of life. Research from the Parkinson’s Foundation’s Outcomes Project shows that consistent exercise can slow symptom progression and improve physical and emotional wellbeing,” said Andi Fristedt, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy and Policy Officer for the Parkinson’s Foundation.

""Rock Steady Boxing for me has not only been important for my physical strength, it is just as important for my mental health. The staff and participants have one goal in mind, to make life a little easier with Parkinsons. As a veteran I can appreciate the comradery formed with people who understand what I'm going through,"" said Tom Zielinski, USMC Veteran and member of Rock Steady Boxing Minooka, IL.

Background:

Non-contact boxing fitness programs, like Rock Steady Boxing, have been shown to improve balance, coordination, mobility, and overall quality of life by helping patients manage symptoms and maintain independence. The Boxing Therapy for Parkinson’s Access Act will reduce financial barriers and ensure greater access to these programs for our nation's veterans living with Parkinson's and movement disorders.

Full text of the legislation can be found HERE.",1,2026-06-05T06:35:23Z,2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-millers-bill-end-child-care-fraud,House Passes Rep. Miller’s Bill to End Child Care Fraud,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Mary Miller’s (IL-15) H.R. 7726, the Stop Child Care Scams Act of 2026.

This legislative package advanced out of the House Education and Workforce Committee includes key provisions aimed to strengthen federal oversight of the Child Care and Development Block Grant program.

""Criminals have exploited government assistance programs for years, stealing millions of taxpayer dollars and diverting resources away from vulnerable children and working families,"" said Congresswoman Mary Miller. ""The House's passage of my Stop Child Care Scams Act ensures that fraud will no longer be met with inaction.

“I am grateful to Chairman Walberg for his leadership and my colleagues for moving this bill through the Education and Workforce Committee and helping House Republicans deliver on our promise to root out waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the federal government,” Congresswoman Miller added.

“Americans work too hard to watch their tax dollars disappear into fraud, waste, and government incompetence,” House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) said. “For years, Democrats looked the other way while programs meant to help families became targets for abuse. House Republicans are restoring accountability and making sure these programs serve the people they were created for, not fraudsters looking for an easy payday.”

The federal government loses an estimated $600 million annually to improper payments in childcare programs.

The Stop Child Care Scams Act:

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to withhold federal funds from states that repeatedly fail to address fraud, abuse, and serious program violations.

Establishes mandatory enforcement by replacing the word “may” with “shall” in federal law, ensuring that penalties for violations are applied consistently and not left to administrative discretion.

Safeguards assistance for eligible families by helping ensure childcare resources are directed to low-income children and working families rather than diverted through fraudulent activity.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/icymi-lahood-feenstra-tokuda-and-schrier-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-rural-maternal-healthcare,"ICYMI: LaHood, Feenstra, Tokuda, and Schrier Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Rural Maternal Healthcare",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), and Kim Schrier (WA-08), and Randy Feenstra (IA-04) introduced the Rural Maternity Options for Medical Support (MOMS) Act of 2026 to strengthen and stabilize maternal healthcare in rural communities nationwide.

The bill would ensure that beds used exclusively for labor and delivery are not counted toward the 25-bed limit required for Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designation under Medicare. This change would help rural hospitals maintain labor and delivery services while preserving critical federal support.

“One of the most urgent challenges facing our rural communities is the diminishing access to maternal healthcare,” said Rep. LaHood. “Expecting mothers deserve access to high-quality care regardless of where they live, which is why I was proud to join my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Rural MOMs Act. This legislation supports our critical access hospitals by allowing them to continue to provide labor and delivery services without jeopardizing their inpatient room capacity. I will continue my work to advance policies that strengthen and support mothers, children, and families in our rural communities.”

“Expecting mothers deserve access to high-quality, maternal healthcare, wherever they live,” said Rep. Feenstra. “Representing one of the most rural districts in the country, I regularly hear from Iowa mothers who drive sometimes over an hour just to access maternal care. I am proud to lead this commonsense legislation to support rural mothers, strengthen access to maternal care, and help ensure the best outcomes in rural communities across the country.”

“No family should have to worry about how far they are from a delivery room or whether their local hospital can keep its maternity ward open. That’s why I am proud to join Rep. Feenstra on this effort to ensure expectant mothers in Hawai?i and across rural America can get the care they need closer to home,” said Rep. Tokuda. “By removing outdated regulatory requirements that currently limit how Critical Access Hospitals provide labor and delivery services, the Rural MOMS Act addresses a major barrier that has forced too many rural hospitals to scale back or discontinue maternity care. This legislation is about more than capacity—it’s about giving rural providers the flexibility they need to put the health and safety of families first.”.

This legislation has received broad support from hospital associations across the country.

“I applaud Rep. LaHood’s leadership and commitment to ensuring rural families have access to the high-quality maternity care they need close to home,” said A.J. Wilhelmi, Illinois Health and Hospital Association President and CEO. “This commonsense legislation represents an important step toward strengthening access to essential maternal health services, supporting critical access hospitals, and improving outcomes for mothers and babies. By helping preserve care in the communities where families live and work, this measure will make a meaningful difference for rural Illinois and rural communities across the country.”

“New and expecting moms deserve access to high-quality labor and delivery services,” said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, American Hospital Association’s Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Political Affairs. “The Rural Maternity Options for Medical Support Act of 2026 strengthens access to maternal health services for mothers in rural areas by ensuring that higher volume critical access hospitals have labor and delivery beds available, even if their other patient beds are full. The AHA appreciates Rep. Feenstra’s leadership to support critical access hospitals and families across the nation.""

""The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) applauds the release of the Rural MOMS Act, led by Representatives Feenstra, LaHood, Tokuda, and Schrier,” said Alan Morgan, CEO, NRHA. “This bill excludes beds used solely for labor and delivery services from counting towards critical access hospitals' 25-bed total, providing more opportunities for rural hospitals to provide obstetric services. As rural labor and delivery units are closing at alarming rates nationwide, this legislation will help retain and expand access to these services.""

Full bill text can be found HERE.",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/6/lahood-feenstra-sewell-evans-reintroduce-bill-to-strengthen-manufacturing-and-agriculture,"LaHood, Feenstra, Sewell, Evans Reintroduce Bill to Strengthen Manufacturing and Agriculture",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Randy Feenstra (IA-04), Terri Sewell (AL-07) and Dwight Evans (PA-03) reintroduced the Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act to help small and medium manufacturers and farmers generate good-paying jobs in Illinois and throughout the country.

“Having robust agriculture and manufacturing industries is vitally important to the success of communities throughout the 16th District,” said Rep. LaHood. “The Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act will provide entrepreneurs and first-time farmers with the financing tools they need to expand their operations, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen our local economies. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to ensure farmers and manufacturers have the resources they need to be successful and support our region.”

""The Industrial Development Bonds (DBS) and First Time Farmer (Aggie Bonds) are a key component to economic growth, manufacturing, supporting the next generation of farmers, and our farm economy here in rural Iowa,” said Rep. Feenstra. “However, outdated rules and regulations created unnecessary barriers for our domestic manufacturers and generational family farmers from utilizing these bonds. I am happy to work with my colleagues Rep. LaHood, Rep. Kildee, and Rep. Evans to reauthorize this critical legislation and ensure modern law reflects the intensive capital needs of Iowa farmers and manufacturers to remain competitive and productive. I remain committed to supporting policies that have not only worked, but continue to grow our manufacturing capabilities, generate robust economic activity, and help our beginning farmers thrive.”

“Many Pennsylvania farmers and manufacturers are struggling, and this is one way we can help them. In the Philadelphia region alone, there are more than 60 certified manufacturing businesses that could benefit from expanded eligibility to retain or create jobs,” said Rep. Evans. “And the farming sector is vital to Pennsylvania and the nation, both because of its sizable role in the economy and because we all need food!”

“Manufacturing and agriculture support good-paying jobs and drive growth in communities across Alabama,” said Rep. Terri Sewell. ""Yet outdated federal rules have made it harder for small manufacturers and farmers to access the financing they need to compete and succeed. The Modernizing Manufacturing and Agricultural Bonds Act will help unlock new investment, strengthen domestic supply chains, and create opportunities for the next generation of American farmers and manufacturers. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to modernize these critical economic development tools and ensure that Alabama’s workers, farmers, and businesses have the resources they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy.”

“We are thrilled that MAMBA has been reintroduced in the U.S. House with bipartisan support,” said CDFA President & CEO Toby Rittner. “With our country facing great economic opportunity, it has become clear that investments in farmers and manufacturers are necessary to strengthen the United States’ global competitiveness. By updating the 40-year-old rules around agricultural and manufacturing bonds, MAMBA allows for the innovative financing tools necessary to invest in local communities by expanding and growing American manufacturing and farming. Representatives LaHood and Sewell have been great champions of farmers and manufacturers and the development finance industry as a whole, and I am thankful for their commitment to those key pillars of the U.S. economy.”

Background:

The Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act updates the federal rules for manufacturing and agricultural bonds. These bonds are exempt from federal tax and are important tools used by state and local agencies to support small manufacturers and farmers and spur economic development. Over the last decade, use of these types of bonds has declined due to their outdated rules and regulations.

This legislation would:

Raise the maximum manufacturing bond size from $10 million to $30 million, updating this threshold for inflation and economic changes. Additionally, the bill ties future bond size increases to inflation.

Modernize the definition of a “manufacturing facility” to include high-tech manufacturing processes, including bio-technology, design and formula development.

Eliminate restrictions that prevented bond proceeds from being used towards offices space, locker rooms, and cafeterias at small manufacturing facilities.

Increase the amount of bond proceeds that can go to first-time farmers from $450,000 to $1 million and allow new farmers to use bond proceeds to upgrade existing agricultural buildings and property and purchase farm equipment.

Align the definition of “substantial farmland” in the federal tax code with existing law.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/bost-announces-congressional-approval-of-1-6-billion-investment-for-st-louis-va-hospital,BOST ANNOUNCES CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL OF $1.6 BILLION INVESTMENT FOR ST. LOUIS VA HOSPITAL,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that Congress has approved a Department of Veterans Affairs budget request of $1.6 billion to modernize the John Cochran Veterans Hospital in St. Louis. The VA funding bill, which is expected to be signed into law by President Trump, provides for construction of a new bed tower, mental health and substance abuse clinic, administrative facilities, parking garages, and central utility plant.

.

""Our veterans deserve world-class care, and that means making sure the facilities serving them are up to the task,"" said Bost. ""The John Cochran Division is a critical lifeline for veterans in Metro East Illinois and beyond. This investment would go a long way toward making sure it can continue to serve them for decades to come. As Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I will do everything I can to make sure Congress follows through.”

.

The John Cochran Division serves thousands of veterans across the Metro East region of Southern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region. Initial funding for design, construction and land acquisition was authorized and appropriated in 2010. This request will help address funding gaps created when previous budget requests were not authorized or appropriated.

###",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/house-passes-bost-bill-to-protect-veterans-second-amendment-rights,HOUSE PASSES BOST BILL TO PROTECT VETERANS' SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS,2026-05-21,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauds the passage of H.R. 1041, the Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. This legislation introduced by Bost prevents the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from stripping veterans of their Second Amendment rights solely because they require financial assistance in managing their benefits.

“Tonight the House passed my Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. No veteran should lose their Second Amendment rights simply because they need help managing their finances, but that is exactly what's been happening,” Chairman Bost said. “Without a judge's ruling or any finding that a veteran is a danger to anyone, a VA bureaucrat could report them to the FBI's background check system and strip them of their right to bear arms. That is not how we treat the men and women who defended our Constitution. This bill puts a permanent end to that injustice, and as a Marine, proud gun owner, and Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I could not be more proud to have led the charge for its passage.”

The Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act prevents the VA from sending a veteran’s information to the DOJ background check system based only on a fiduciary determination. It also requires the VA to notify the Attorney General when past referrals were made on that basis alone.

###",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/bost-celebrates-american-airlines-contract-with-marion-airport,BOST CELEBRATES AMERICAN AIRLINES CONTRACT WITH MARION AIRPORT,2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has selected American Airlines to provide Essential Air Service at Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois in Marion. Beginning later this summer, the airline will operate 12 round trips per week between Marion and Chicago’s O'Hare International Airport using 65-passenger regional jets.

""Southern Illinois deserves reliable air service, and that's exactly what this development should deliver,” said Bost. ""I've worked closely with airport officials, American Airlines, and the U.S. Department of Transportation in recent months to make this happen, and I couldn’t be more thrilled it came to fruition. With connections to O'Hare and access to American's full route network, I’d expect this to be a big boost for the region.""

With the addition of one of the country’s largest national carriers, the new service will nearly double the current capacity.

###",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/5/lahood-gottheimer-tenney-boyle-reintroduce-legislation-to-cover-dietary-supplements-under-flex-health-spending-accounts,"LaHood, Gottheimer, Tenney, Boyle, Reintroduce Legislation to Cover Dietary Supplements under Flex/Health Spending Accounts",2026-05-20,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Brendan Boyle (PA-02) reintroduced the Dietary Supplements Access Act. This legislation would allow for the use of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to purchase dietary supplements, modernizing the availability and coverage of vitamins and minerals, supporting cost savings, and giving millions of Americans increased health and wellness options. Companion legislation was introduced in the Seante by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Curtis (R-UT).

“As enrollment in HSA’s continues to grow, it is critical we remove unnecessary barriers to give Americans more flexibility and options when making personal healthcare choices for their families,” said Congressman LaHood. ""This bipartisan bill will allow over-the-counter nutrition and dietary supplements to be considered as qualified medical expenses under HSAs and FSAs so that a patients have more flexibility and preventative care options.”

“Americans should be able to use their own hard-earned healthcare dollars on commonsense preventive health products they already rely on every day,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Millions of families, especially seniors, use vitamins, probiotics, and dietary supplements to support their health, but outdated tax rules make that harder than it should be. The bipartisan Dietary Supplements Access Act cuts red tape, expands access to affordable preventive care, and gives the more than 270,000 seniors in New York’s 24th District greater flexibility in managing their healthcare costs.""

""Dietary supplements and wellness products are essential health care products that hard-working families rely on each and every day. We need to cut red tape and make sure people can afford them. This bipartisan legislation protects consumer choice, supports small businesses, and takes a commonsense approach to keeping products safe, affordable, and accessible,” said Congressman Gottheimer.

""At a time when more science is supporting the use of dietary supplements to maintain health and wellness, expanding HSA and FSA eligibility to include supplements is smart healthcare policy,” said CHPA President & CEO Scott Melville. “Giving consumers the ability to use their own pre-tax dollars to purchase supplements makes healthcare more affordable and accessible and send empowers Americans to take a more proactive approach to their health and wellness. This legislation builds on bipartisan efforts to expand access to trusted self-care products, and CHPA applauds Senator Cramer for championing greater flexibility and affordability for consumers.”

“Modernizing HSA eligibility can better reflect how consumers think about investing in their health and wellness. We support the Dietary Supplements Access Act as an important step toward aligning federal health policy with the growing body of science connecting nutrition, the gut microbiome, and long-term health outcomes. At Novonesis, we produce the biological cultures and probiotic solutions that millions of Americans use every day to support their health. Making these products eligible for pre-tax HSA spending enables consumer access to preventative health — and we look forward to working with Congress to see this legislation across the finish line,"" said Novonesis President Tue Micheelsen.

Background:

Roughly 80% of Americans use vitamins and dietary supplements for a range of benefits, from addressing nutrient deficiencies to strengthening bones and helping to prevent osteoporosis. Vitamins and dietary supplements can be a part of preventative care that can create cost savings to employers, consumers, and the entire healthcare system.

Currently, Americans with health-related savings accounts cannot be reimbursed for the out-of-pocket expenses they pay for nutritional and dietary supplements. This bipartisan legislation would amend the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to include over-the-counter dietary supplement products as a qualified medical expense. This change would allow single filers to contribute $250, and joint filers can contribute $500 to their HSA/FSA for the use of dietary supplements annually.

This legislation is supported by the National Products Association, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, the Council for Responsible Nutrition, and Novonesis.",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/5/bost-introduces-bill-highlighting-farmers-mental-health-needs,BOST INTRODUCES BILL HIGHLIGHTING FARMERS' MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS,2026-05-19,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) this week joined Rep. Kim Schrier (WA-8) in introducing a resolution to recognize the mental health crisis facing America's agricultural producers and workforce. According to the National Rural Health Association, the suicide rate among farmers is 3.5 times higher than the general population. This bill would designate May 29th of this year as “Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day,” recognizing the unique pressures faced by farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers across the country and raising awareness about the resources available to those in need.

""Our farmers are proud, salt of the Earth people, but they face tremendous pressures in a tough industry. The stress that comes with the profession is real, with a suicide rate 3.5 times higher than the general population,” said Bost. “Volatile markets, rising input costs, and unpredictable weather don't just threaten a family farm’s bottom line, they take a toll on mental health, too. This legislation is a step towards making sure they know that if they’re struggling, they don’t have to struggle alone.""

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

###",1,2026-05-20T06:27:31Z,2026-05-20T06:28:54Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/5/house-passes-lahood-led-fostering-the-future-act,House Passes LaHood-Led Fostering the Future Act,2026-05-19,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fostering the Future Act; a bipartisan piece of legislation focused on strengthening and modernizing the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (Chafee) to improve outcomes for foster youth across America. Congressman LaHood Chairs the Ways and Means Work and Welfare Subcommittee, where he worked alongside First Lady Melania Trump, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08), and his colleagues to usher this bill through the legislative process.

""As Chairman of the Ways and Means Work and Welfare Subcommittee, I have been proud to work alongside the First Lady and my colleagues over the last year to develop and introduce the first comprehensive reforms to the Chafee program since 1999,"" said Work and Welfare Subcommittee Chairman Darin LaHood. ""This bipartisan legislation ensures that federal resources make it to those that need them most, and expands access to education, housing, and workforce training for foster youth to assist in their transition to adulthood. I thank my colleagues in the House for supporting this legislation, and I look forward to continuing my work to uplift and support the most vulnerable among us.""

“The historic passage of the Fostering the Future Act is a testament to the dedicated leadership of Chairman LaHood and our colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee, particularly on the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, who worked across the aisle and built strong, bipartisan support for reform,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith. “I commend Chairman LaHood for taking the time to listen directly to the lived experiences of foster youth and turn their stories into meaningful, bipartisan legislation that addresses the unique challenges facing foster youth today as they transition to adulthood. These reforms will meet the inspirational call for change from our First Lady, Melania Trump, whose Fostering the Future initiative has given a voice to the voiceless and helped shine a spotlight on desperately needed solutions. This legislation will help ensure young people in the foster care program are given a fair shot in their path to self-sufficiency and work to achieve a brighter, more independent future.”

Background:

The Fostering the Future Act is comprised of six different pieces of legislation, all contributing to reforming the foster care system and providing more opportunities for foster youth to successfully transition to adulthood. All six bipartisan bills were approved unanimously in the House Ways & means Committee in April of 2026.

The bills included are:

H.R. 7432 - Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act

Led by Chairman LaHood and Rep. Gwen Moore

H.R. 7529 - Fresh Starts for Foster Youth Act

Led by Chairman LaHood and Ranking Member Danny Davis

H.R. 7995 - Chafee Opportunities for New Networks and Existing Connection Trust (CONNECT) Act

Led by Rep Mike Carey and Rep. Gwen Moore

H.R. 7655 - Support for Expectant Foster Youth Act

Ranking Member Danny Davis and Rep. Rudy Yakym

H.R. 7343 - Foster Youth Workforce Opportunity Act

Led by Rep. Max Miller and Rep. Dwight Evans

H.R. 7463 - Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act

Led by Rep. Nathaniel Moran and Rep. Judy Chu",1,2026-05-21T06:28:16Z,2026-05-21T06:29:43Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-introduces-god-we-trust-act-commemoration-america-250,Rep. Mary Miller Introduces “In God We Trust Act” in Commemoration of America 250,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the House companion bill to Senator Josh Hawley’s (R-MO) In God We Trust Act, which requires the General Services Administration (GSA) to display or inscribe the national motto of the United States on all federal buildings.

The legislation comes ahead of Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving, taking place on May 17, 2026.

“For nearly 70 years, our national motto, ‘In God We Trust,’ has served as a declaration of faith that has guided our nation,” said Congresswoman Miller. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, I’m proud to introduce the House companion to Senator Hawley’s In God We Trust Act to permanently display our national motto in every federal building across this country. We will never apologize for being one nation that places its trust in Almighty God.”

If enacted, the legislation would require the GSA to display or inscribe the national motto of the United States in a prominent location within all federal buildings within one year.

“In God We Trust” was first minted on U.S. coins in 1864, during the Civil War. In 1956, it was designated as the national motto after the bill was passed unanimously by Congress and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Click here to read the full bill text.

Click here to read more about the legislation on the Christian Post.

Cosponsors: Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Chuck Flieschmann (TN-03), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Mike Kelly (PA-16), John Rose (TN-06), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Barry Moore (AL-01), Rick Allen (GA-12), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Harriet Hageman (WY-AL), and Ben Cline (VA-06).",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/5/lahood-hosts-11th-annual-16th-district-congressional-art-competition-reception,LaHood Hosts 11th Annual 16th District Congressional Art Competition Reception,2026-05-06,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Peoria, Illinois – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) hosted his 11th annual reception for the Congressional Art Competition at the Peoria Riverfront Museum alongside President John Morris, where he announced this year’s finalists for Illinois’ 16th Congressional District.

“Every year, I am amazed by the creativity and tremendous artistic talent of high school students throughout Illinois’ 16th Congressional District,” said Rep. LaHood. “This year was unique as we had a tie for second place – both pieces will be displayed in my Washington, D.C. Office. I thank all the teachers, families, and students who made this year's competition a success. Congratulations to all our finalists, and particularly this year’s winner, Namratha Dinesh, and her piece, ‘Just Like Amma,’ which will be hung in the United States Capitol for the next year. I look forward to seeing it again in Washington, D.C.!”

Pictured below is Namratha’s winning piece, “Just Like Amma”

Background:

This year was Congressman LaHood's eleventh Congressional Art Competition. Participants were judged anonymously by a volunteer panel, and award winners were chosen by a cumulative vote. There were 75 pieces of art submitted from 13 schools throughout the 16th District. This year’s pieces were on display throughout April at the Peoria Riverfront Museum.

Winning Piece to be Hung in the Capitol:

Second Place Winners to be hung in Rep. LaHood's D.C. office:

“Dunquin Pier, April 2, 7:47PM” by Elizabeth Jones, Metamora Township High School

“Stillness Before the Verdict” by Halle Pfeiffer, East Peoria Community High School

Honorable Mentions to be hung in Illinois’ 16th Congressional District offices:

“The Ocean Remembers” by Mallory Pierce, Homeschool",1,2026-05-13T06:12:22Z,2026-05-13T06:13:52Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-votes-advance-farm-bill-delivering-certainty-illinois-farmers,"Rep. Mary Miller Votes to Advance Farm Bill, Delivering Certainty for Illinois Farmers",2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, voted to pass H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, out of the U.S. House of Representatives.

After years of short-term extensions, this legislation locks in key priorities and provides the long-term stability that farmers, producers, and rural communities across Illinois’ 15th District depend on.

“Today, I proudly voted to advance a Farm Bill that delivers the certainty farmers, producers, and rural communities across IL-15 deserve,” said Congresswoman Mary Miller. “Our agriculture community is the backbone of our economy, and this legislation ensures they have the tools to manage risk, stay competitive, and continue feeding and fueling not only our nation, but the world.”

The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 reauthorizes critical USDA programs while modernizing farm policy to meet the challenges facing producers. This legislation strengthens risk management tools for farmers and ranchers, invests in the long-term vitality of rural communities, and takes decisive steps to safeguard American agricultural land from foreign adversaries.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/4/icymi-lahood-joins-first-lady-melania-trump-and-ways-and-means-colleagues-for-roundtable-discussion-on-improving-outcomes-for-foster-youth,ICYMI: LaHood Joins First Lady Melania Trump and Ways and Means Colleagues for Roundtable Discussion on Improving Outcomes for Foster Youth,2026-04-20,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Last week, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), joined First Lady Melania Trump and fellow members of the Ways and Means Committee for a roundtable discussion focused on improving outcomes for youth aging out of foster care through reforms to the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (Chafee). The Chafee program provides support to foster youth and former foster youth as they transition to adulthood. Congressman LaHood is the Chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, which has held multiple hearings on ways to modernize the Chaffee program to better serve the most vulnerable among us.

""The First Lady has been instrumental in creating meaningful, positive change for foster youth through her 'Be Best' and 'Fostering the Future' initiatives,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""It was an honor to have her in attendance today to provide her insight and discuss the policies we are focused on to improve the foster care system. I look forward to continuing to partner with the First Lady, and my colleagues in a bipartisan manner, to ensure that our foster youth have the tools they need to achieve greater opportunity and long-term success.""

Watch Rep. LaHood's Opening Statement Below

Background:

Congressman LaHood is the Chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, where he leads oversight of federal child welfare programs and efforts to modernize support for foster youth.

The Subcommittee on Work and Welfare has been examining how technology and innovation can strengthen federal child welfare programs and better support transition-age foster youth.

This roundtable follows a series of hearings led by Chairman LaHood on the Chafee Foster Care Program and his participation in the White House signing of the Fostering the Future for American Children and Families Executive Order, which called for modernizing state child welfare systems.

Recent hearings have highlighted that many foster youth are unaware of available Chafee resources and that some states face challenges accessing federal funds.",1,2026-04-21T05:46:59Z,2026-04-21T05:48:34Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-introduces-legislation-end-dangerous-unethical-practices,"Rep. Mary Miller Introduces Legislation to End Dangerous, Unethical Practices by Abortion Pill Providers",2026-03-18,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) introduced the Clean Water for All Life Act. This legislation seeks to crack down on the dangerous and unethical practices associated with chemical abortion pills and to protect both human dignity and America’s water systems.

This legislation amends Title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit chemical abortions conducted without the physical presence of a healthcare provider and establishes safeguards to ensure proper medical oversight and responsible disposal of abortion-related medical waste.

""The murder-for-profit abortion industry has completely ignored the dangerous and unethical disposal of pre-born baby remains and toxic chemical waste produced by abortion pills,” said Congresswoman Mary Miller. “I introduced the Clean Water for All Life Act to put an end to their reckless and inhumane practices.”

“The loss of human life from Chemical Abortion Pills every day sickens so many Americans, but very little thought is given to what happens after a Chemical Abortion. Heroic efforts to confront these deadly drugs are underway on a lot of fronts, but Students for Life has been unique in adding environmental concerns to the reasons to scrap the current FDA policy. We are proud and grateful to Rep. Miller and her unapologetic leadership in this innovative bill. Babies deserve better, and many of us are being exposed to abortion water pollution in our drinking water,” said Kristan Hawkins, President, Students for Life of America.

Chemical abortion pills are now the most common method of abortion in the United States. According to analysis from Students for Life Action, more than 50 tons of chemically tainted medical waste—including blood, placental tissue, and human remains—are flushed into U.S. water systems each year as a result of these drugs.

Studies indicate that the active components of these drugs are not fully filtered out by wastewater treatment facilities, raising serious concerns about environmental contamination and public health exposure. At the same time, the Biden Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has rolled back key safety regulations, removing critical medical oversight while failing to address environmental risks.

The Clean Water for All Life Act would prohibit chemical abortions conducted:

Without the physical presence of a healthcare provider.

Without a medical examination of the patient.

Without providing a medical waste “catch kit” and red bag disposal system, along with instructions for returning the waste to a healthcare provider for proper handling.

Read more about Rep. Miller’s legislation in the Daily Wire.

Cosponsors: Reps. Michael Cloud (TX-27), Pat Harrigan (NC-10), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), John McGuire (VA-05), Greg Steube (FL-17), Lauren Boebert (CO-04), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Kat Cammack (FL-03), Andy Ogles (TN-05), John Rose (TN-06) and Ralph Norman (SC-05), and Tim Burchett (TN-02).",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:18:47Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mary-miller-applauds-farm-bill-advancing-out-house-agriculture-committee,Rep. Mary Miller Applauds Farm Bill Advancing Out of House Agriculture Committee,2026-03-05,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 passed out of committee.

“As a third-generation farmer, I know firsthand that farming is not easy work, and I am committed to ensuring our Illinois producers receive support,” said Congresswoman Miller.

“This Farm Bill provides the tools and certainty our agricultural producers need to remain the strongest and most productive in the world. I look forward to bringing this legislation to the House floor and delivering the stability our farmers need to plan for the future.”

The legislation secured several key provisions to support producers, including:

More than $1 billion for specialty crop programs.

Protections ensuring California’s Proposition 12 cannot be imposed on producers outside the state.

Expanded access to credit for beginning farmers.

Codification of President Trump’s reforms to the national dietary guidelines.

Watch Rep. Miller’s Remarks at the Farm Bill Markup:",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:18:47Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-sen-budd-lead-bill-close-loophole-exploited-illegal-aliens-employed,"Rep. Miller, Sen. Budd Lead Bill to Close Loophole Exploited by Illegal Aliens Employed as Police Officers",2026-02-25,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), led several of their Republican colleagues in introducing the bicameral Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act today. The legislation is aimed at prohibiting illegal aliens who work as armed law enforcement officers from possessing firearms or ammunition provided to them by a government entity, such as a police department. This bill aligns with existing federal law that already prohibits illegal aliens from possessing firearms or ammunition in the United States.

“Sanctuary policies in states like Illinois have gone so far as to allow illegal aliens to wear the badge and carry a firearm. That is a disgrace to every honorable officer and a threat to public safety. Law enforcement authority must be reserved for those who respect and uphold our laws, not those who are in violation of them,” said Congresswoman Miller.

“Illegal aliens have no Second Amendment rights. It is irresponsible for police departments to arm illegal aliens who have blatantly ignored our immigration laws with firearms and ammunition, let alone on the taxpayers’ dime. Federal law already prohibits those who enter our country illegally from possessing firearms, and it’s time we ensure illegal aliens working at local police departments are held to the same legal standard,” said Senator Budd.

“Illegal aliens do not have the right to possess firearms or ammunition in America. The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act would ensure local police departments that try to hire illegal aliens cannot provide them with guns or ammunition,” said Senator Blackburn.

“This is common sense. Illegal aliens who have already broken our nation's laws should certainly not be carrying a badge or a firearm. We hold our brave men and women in law enforcement to the highest standards and the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act will only bolster those standards,” said Senator Mullin.

“The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act closes a dangerous loophole by ensuring that individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States cannot be armed and sworn in as police officers . This commonsense fix strengthens public safety, upholds federal law, and ensures those entrusted to enforce our laws are here legally,” said Congressman Gosar.

“Illegal aliens should not be allowed to remain in our country, much less become a police officer. If an illegal somehow manages to get hired by a police department, well… they’re a short walk to a cell when we find out,” said Congressman Higgins.

“This commonsense legislation addresses a serious gap in current law by making clear that illegal aliens in the United States – who have no right to be in the country in the first place – cannot and should not be entrusted with the authority and firearms of a sworn law enforcement officer. The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act reinforces the rule of law and ensures that those charged with enforcing our laws meet the same legal standards as every peace officer in America is expected to meet,"" said Congressman Roy.

“The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act reinforces a simple and necessary principle: individuals who are in our country unlawfully should not possess firearms or ammunition. This legislation closes a dangerous loophole while preserving commonsense exceptions for visiting law enforcement partners and lawful sporting activities. As a former law enforcement officer, I believe public safety must always come first, and this bill helps ensure our laws are clear, consistent, and focused on protecting American communities,” said Congressman Ezell.

“Illegal aliens are actively disobeying American law and corrupting American culture. Allowing illegals to be cops is ludicrous. Not only would it encourage narco terrorists to infiltrate law enforcement, but it would erode public trust and civil society. Enforcing American law requires American law enforcement officers,” Congressman Ogles said.

“I’m proud to cosponsor the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act because the rule of law isn’t optional. We’ve seen outrageous cases in places like Illinois and within the New Orleans Police Department where individuals who were in this country illegally were handed a badge and put in positions of authority. That’s unacceptable and it sends the wrong message to the American people. If you’re going to enforce America’s laws and wear the uniform, you must respect our laws first, and that means being here legally,” said Congressman Moore.

""An outrageous loophole in federal law gives non-Americans more gun privileges than law-abiding citizens with Second Amendment rights. Through the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act illegals who are police have a statutory right to nationwide carry that is denied to every day Americans. What's worse, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, and perhaps others are already empowering illegals as police to infringe on the Second Amendment rights of American gun owners. Congress must pass the Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act immediately, to prevent anti-gun states from using illegal aliens to enforce unconstitutional gun control laws,"" said Aidan Johnston, from Gun Owners of America.

Read the full bill text HERE.

Senate cosponsors: U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.).

House cosponsors: U.S. Representatives Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.-09), Clay Higgins (R-La.-03), Chip Roy (R-Texas-21), Mike Ezell (R-Miss-04), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.-05), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.-at-large), Barry Moore (R-Ala.-01), Randy Fine (R-Fla.-04), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.-04), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.-08), Russell Fry (R-S.C.-07), Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.-10), Mike Collins (R-Ga.-10), Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.-02), Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.-13), Michael Rulli (R-Ohio-06), Cory Mills (R-Fla.-07), John Rose (R-Tenn.-06), and Sheri Biggs (R-S.C.-03).

The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act has been endorsed by: Gun Owners of America (GOA), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), and Immigration Accountability Project (IAP).

Read more about Rep. Miller’s bill in The Washington Times.

Background:

Recent reports have revealed that law enforcement agencies across the country have hired illegal aliens to serve as police officers:

In 2022, the California state legislature passed a law to allow illegal aliens to work as police officers. Reportedly, in 2023, about a dozen illegal aliens had been hired as police officers in California, including at such agencies as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).

ICE has arrested alleged illegal alien police officers around the country working for such agencies as the Hanover Park Police Department in Illinois and the Old Orchard Beach Police Department in Maine.

ICE also recently arrested an alleged illegal alien police recruit at the New Orleans Police Department Academy in Louisiana who had been issued a firearm by the department.

The Stop Illegal Alien Cops Act preserves existing laws such that this prohibition does not apply, for example, to:",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:58Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/2/bost-issues-statement-on-president-trump-s-state-of-the-union-speech,BOST ISSUES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP'S STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) issued the following statement in response to President Trump's State of the Union address to a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday evening:

""President Trump’s State of the Union address capped off a tremendous year of putting America first. Inflation has cooled, while the job market and stock market heat up. We’ve locked in historic tax relief for working families. Our borders are secured and crime rates are dropping by double digits in cities across the country. And after four years of Joe Biden’s failed foreign policy, America’s might is respected by the world again.""",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-bill-protect-children-sexually-explicit-content-schools,Rep. Miller Introduces Bill to Protect Children from Sexually Explicit Content in Schools,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15), Chairwoman of the Congressional Family Caucus, introduced the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act to protect children from being exposed to explicit material in the classroom.

This bill will amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to prohibit the use of funds at schools that promote any program or activity that includes sexually oriented material, while preserving instruction in science, classic literature, art, and world religions.

“Parents deserve complete confidence that their tax dollars are being used to promote academic excellence — not to expose children to harmful and explicit material that undermines their innocence,” said Congresswoman Miller. “My legislation draws a clear and enforceable line to ensure our schools remain focused on education, not explicit ideological agendas or radical indoctrination.”

Click here to read the full bill text.

Read more about Rep. Miller’s bill on the Daily Signal.

Cosponsors: Reps. Greg Steube (FL-17), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Harriet Hageman (WY), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Barry Moore (AL-01), Troy Downing (MT-02), Randy Fine (FL-06), Sheri Biggs (SC-03), Julia Letlow (LA-05), Chip Roy (TX-21), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Randy Weber (TX-14), John Rose (TN-06), Burgess Owens (UT-04), and Keith Self (TX-03).",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:58Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-responds-president-trumps-state-union-address,Rep. Miller Responds to President Trump’s State of the Union Address,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) released the following statement after President Donald J. Trump delivered his State of the Union address.

“Tonight, President Trump made it unmistakably clear that the State of our Union is strong and growing stronger because we are once again putting America First,” said Congresswoman Miller. “Under this administration, we are reversing the destructive decisions of Joe Biden and seeing lower costs, a secure border, American energy dominance, and policies that empower families, farmers, and small businesses across Central Illinois.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:58Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/2/bost-issues-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-save-america-act,BOST ISSUES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE SAVE AMERICA ACT,2026-02-11,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"“I voted for the SAVE America Act because the right to vote in American elections belongs to American citizens, period. This bill puts commonsense safeguards in place by requiring proof of citizenship to register, photo ID to cast a ballot, and real accountability to clean up voter rolls. If we can require an ID to board a plane, rent an apartment, drive a car, or buy prescription medication, we can require it to vote. The American people deserve elections they can trust, and I will never apologize for fighting to protect the integrity of their vote.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-votes-for-save-america-act-to-bolster-election-integrity,LaHood Votes for SAVE America Act to Bolster Election Integrity,2026-02-11,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood voted in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act to strengthen our current election laws by requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.

""I was proud to vote for the SAVE America Act on the House floor today, and believe it is an important step toward strengthening the American public's confidence in our elections,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""My home state of Illinois, and others across our country, have failed to properly maintain their voter rolls and implement basic election security practices such as requiring voter ID. By establishing clear, consistent standards to verify voter eligibility, this legislation helps ensure that only the American people decide our elections. Protecting election integrity is fundamental to maintaining public trust and the SAVE America Act provides commonsense measures to help secure our electoral process.""

Background:

The SAVE America Act amends the National Voter Registration Act to require states to obtain proof of citizenship regardless of where the individual registers and allow for an alternative route for U.S. citizens who might not have documentary proof.

Along with obtaining proof of citizenship, the bill directs states to create programs that update their voter rolls promptly and accurately.

The SAVE America Act will assist in this process by providing states access to Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration databases and for these programs to remove noncitizens from the voter rolls without inconveniencing U.S. citizens.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-votes-pass-save-america-act-protect-election-integrity,Rep. Miller Votes to Pass the SAVE America Act to Protect Election Integrity,2026-02-11,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) voted to pass S. 1383, the SAVE America Act. This legislation secures federal elections by ensuring that only American citizens vote in American elections.

As a member of the House Administration Committee, Congresswoman Miller was a critical proponent of this legislation.

“Congress has a constitutional responsibility to secure our elections and ensure the voices of American voters are protected. That’s why I was proud to vote to pass the SAVE America Act,” said Congresswoman Miller. “This bill ensures that only U.S. citizens can register and vote in federal elections. Over 80 percent of Americans support voter ID, including a majority of Democrats. Today, House Republicans delivered on that demand.”

Click here to watch the Congresswoman’s remarks on the House floor.

The SAVE America Act establishes commonsense, nationwide standards to protect federal elections, including:

Requiring proof of identity by photo ID to vote in federal elections.

Requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote.

Directing states to remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls.

Empowering citizens to bring legal action against officials who fail to enforce the law.

Updating federal election guidance to ensure smooth implementation.

Contrary to misinformation spread by opponents, the SAVE America Act:

Does not disenfranchise women who change their names.

Does not impact military members voting overseas.

Does not require a passport to register to vote.

Is fully constitutional under Congress’s authority to regulate federal elections.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:58Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-moore-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-increase-access-to-housing-for-foster-youth,"LaHood, Moore Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Access to Housing for Foster Youth",2026-02-10,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) introduced the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act. This legislation aims to help youth transitioning out of foster care obtain housing by partnering with states and local services to better coordinate housing vouchers and opportunities. The bill builds on First Lady Melania Trump's commitment to providing America’s youth with the necessary resources as they age out of the foster system.

""As Chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, I take seriously our responsibility to ensure that future generations have the best chance to succeed,"" said Congressman LaHood. ""I thank Congresswoman Moore for her leadership and joining me to introduce the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act to better help youth transitioning out of foster care find stable housing. We must continue our work to uplift the most vulnerable among us and provide them with resources to pursue the American Dream.""

“We must boost investments in our foster youth and foster families. That is one of my priorities as co-chair of the bipartisan Caucus on Foster Youth, and why I joined Rep. LaHood in introducing the Foster Youth Housing Opportunity Act. Our bill would help improve coordination between existing housing programs at HUD and child welfare systems while providing states more flexibility to use Chafee funds to help cover housing-related costs and services for foster youth as they age out. These efforts will better support foster youth and their long-term stability,” said Congresswoman Moore.

Bill Highlights:

Improves access to housing by strengthening coordination with federal Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) vouchers available through public housing agencies.

Allows Chafee funds to be used for housing supportive services outside of the existing 30% cap on “room or board,” provides flexibility to determine the cap based on a rolling average over five years, and aligns age eligibility with FYI vouchers.

The legislation supports the First Lady's Foster Youth to Independence Initiative, which provides a clear path for foster youth transitioning to adulthood to obtain critical resources that advance independence, stability, and well-being.

Background:

Nearly 35 percent of former foster youth experienced homelessness by age 21. Lack of stable housing is one of the biggest barriers to adulthood for transition-age foster youth.

The Foster Youth Housing Act clarifies that the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (Chafee) is intended to strengthen coordination between federal housing and child welfare programs.

The full text to the legislation can be found HERE.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-issa-introduce-legislation-to-ensure-diaspora-access-to-lebanon-elections,"LaHood, Issa Introduce Legislation to Ensure Diaspora Access to Lebanon Elections",2026-02-05,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) joined Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) to introduce the SAFE Lebanon Act to ensure that members of the eligible Lebanese diaspora are not prevented from voting in Lebanon’s elections by authorizing sanctions on foreign individuals and entities that obstruct Lebanon’s electoral process.

“Free and fair elections will be essential to paving the way to Lebanon’s long-term stability, sovereignty, and prosperity. That is why the demonstrated obstruction of Lebanon’s electoral process must be met with clear consequences. The United States has high expectations for the government of Lebanon, and this Administration stands at the ready to play a lasting role in the nation’s progress. Authorizing the use of sanctions against those who seek to derail or defraud this process is a uniquely strong deterrent, will bolster needed election integrity, and strengthen confidence in the democratic system. We must put an end to the paradox that millions of Lebanese citizens around the world have a voice everywhere except Lebanon,” said Congressmen LaHood and Issa.

""Lebanon must continue in the positive trajectory it undertook in 2018 and 2022 by allowing full diaspora absentee voting. The American Task Force on Lebanon thanks Reps. Darrell Issa and Darin LaHood for standing with the people of Lebanon as they seek full participation in their democratic system,"" said Amb. (ret.) Ed Gabriel, President and CEO of the American Task Force on Lebanon.

Background:

Lebanon’s parliamentary elections have faced interference from Hezbollah, corrupt

political elites, and foreign actors who have engaged in intimidation, manipulation of

electoral administration, and obstruction of reforms. These actions have also affected the ability of Lebanese citizens living abroad to participate in elections, despite legal provisions allowing diaspora voting. Lebanon’s large global diaspora plays an important civic, political, and economic role, and protecting their voting rights is considered a national security interest of the United States.

The full text of the legislation can be found HERE.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-secures-nearly-19-million-for-critical-projects-in-the-16th-district,LaHood Secures Nearly $19 Million for Critical Projects in the 16th District,2026-02-03,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) announced that he secured nearly $19 million for community and infrastructure projects in the 16th District during the House of Representatives appropriations process.

""I was proud to vote today to fund the government and ensure it remains open and functioning for the American people,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""Throughout this appropriations process, I have advocated for critical projects that directly address the needs of communities across the 16th District. I am happy to announce that I have secured nearly $19 million for meaningful investments in public safety, economic growth, and critical infrastructure projects in communities across Central and Northwestern Illinois. I will continue my work to be a strong voice for my district and to deliver real results for the families, workers, and communities I have the privilege to represent.""

Background:

Members of Congress are able to submit Community Project Funding requests during the annual appropriations process to support infrastructure and community projects in their district. This cycle, Representative LaHood was able to secure nearly $19 million for 11 projects that strengthen economies, update critical infrastructure, increase public safety, and improve the quality of life for families throughout the 16th District.

More information on these projects can be found below.

Galena Road Industrial Park Infrastructure Update in Peoria

Recipient: City of Peoria

Funding Received: $600,000

Project Description: The funding will be used to help make necessary infrastructure upgrades to the businesses looking to locate to the Galena Road Industrial Park, sparking economic activity in the surrounding area. This will ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to retain Peoria area community investment. The current lack of industrial buildings in the area prohibits businesses from growing, causing them to leave the Peoria area, which impacts jobs and other opportunities for constituents in my district. The improved infrastructure will provide a clear economic development benefit to the greater Peoria region through the creation of high paying jobs in growing industries employing a skilled workforce.

Radnor Road Street Corridor Plan in Peoria

Recipient: Peoria County

Funding Received: $1,000,000

Project Description: The funding will be used to complete NEPA documentation, including preliminary design and planning, for Radnor Road, a vital north-south connector for the City of Peoria. This will improve public safety, increase economic development, and expand transportation accessibility for Peoria county residents. The update will provide additional access for economic development in the Medina Plains Corporate Park and connectivity for the extension of Pioneer Parkway. These proposed developments will increase traffic and the rural road needs improvement to provide adequate levels of safety and capacity for the predicted traffic increase.

Furrow Bridge Replacement in Pekin

Recipient: Tazwell County

Funding Received: $500,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the replacement of the Furrow Road Bridge and address safety concerns for what is currently an outdated and unsafe bridge. The bridge serves a large agricultural area, and the ability for farmers to get their crops to market safely is fundamental to local agriculture in central Illinois. The project will provide further access and support for safe transportation of agricultural products and ensure the community has the necessary resources to properly maintain a vital transportation system.

Park and Bilger Bridges Replacement in Streator

Recipient: City of Streator

Funding Received: $1,000,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the replacement of the Park Street and Bilger Street box culvert bridges. This will support the maintenance of a vital section of Streator’s infrastructure system and improve accessibility for a roadway used by first responders, commercial, and residential traffic in the City of Streator. The removal and replacement of the Park Street and Bilger Bridges will prevent the closure of critical infrastructure junctions in Streator and ensure individuals, families, and businesses in Central and Northwestern Illinois have a robust infrastructure system that provides a reliable, efficient, and safe transportation network.

Design and Construction of Air Cargo Road at the Central Illinois Regional Airport

Recipient: Bloomington-Normal Airport Authority

Funding Received: $1,500,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the design and construction of a new air cargo road. Constructing this air cargo road will allow the Airport Authority to redirect this truck activity to a different road, and in turn, immediately improve traffic safety for all vehicles accessing the air cargo and passenger terminal areas.

Design and Construction of new Interchange at Minooka Road and I-80

Recipient: Grundy County

Funding Received: $5,000,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the design and construction of a new interchange at Minooka Road and Interstate 80 in Grundy County. The interchange would improve access to the neighboring industrial district, which has seen significant growth in freight-generating business and support the potential for substantial additional job growth. The project includes comprehensive planning, capacity, and mobility improvements by Grundy County, ensuring the long-term functionality of the region.

Technology Update for the Bloomington Real Time Information and Crime Center

Recipient: City of Bloomington

Funding Received: $556,000

Project Description: The funding will be used to acquire essential technology and software for the regions only Real Time Information and Crime Center (RTICC) – a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance public safety, provide real-time intelligence, and support law enforcement across the city, surrounding communities and the State of Illinois. The essential technology includes live crime mapping, predictive analytics, and expanded public safety camera infrastructure – tools that the department cannot currently afford but are vital for modern policing.

Fargo Creek Flooding Mediation Project in Dixon

Recipient: City of Dixon

Funding Received: $2,000,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the installation of retention ponds to mitigate flooding, floodways, and floodplain in the Fargo Creek Redevelopment Project Area. This public/private partnership will feature the development of retention ponds to the west of the current Gateway Project. Fargo Creek is the number one contributor to the floodway and floodplain designations in Dixon's downtown commercial business district along the Rock River.

Lift Station and Force Main Improvements Project in South Beloit

Recipient: City of South Beloit

Funding Received: $750,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the replacement of the failing Lift Station No. 1 and the associated Force Main that transports sewage from the west side of the Rock River to the new South Beloit Wastewater Treatment Plant. The original lift station and Force Main were constructed in 1956 and have exceeded useful life.

Construction of new Fire Department and EMS Facility in Metamora

Recipient: Village of Metamora

Funding Received: $4,000,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the construction of a new public safety building to serve the Village of Metamora and the surrounding rural area. The project will alleviate safety concerns for the area’s first responders, address the severe shortage of EMTs and Paramedics, and ensure our first responders have the necessary tools and resources to meet the immediate safety demands of the Metamora community.

Construction of Behavioral Health Services & Workforce Training Center in Princeton

Recipient: Arukah Institute

Funding Received: $2,000,000

Project Description: The funding will be used for the construction of a 32,000 sq. ft. rural behavioral health services and workforce training center in Princeton, Illinois. The Arukah Institute of Healing serves patients struggling with substance use or mental illness regardless of their ability to pay. The project will allow Arukah to increase rural healthcare services, address the root causes of mental health and substance use, and continue to support the healthcare needs of our rural communities.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/2/reps-bost-miller-lahood-request-answers-from-illinois-election-board-on-voter-roll-integrity,"REPS. BOST, MILLER, LAHOOD REQUEST ANSWERS FROM ILLINOIS ELECTION BOARD ON VOTER ROLL INTEGRITY",2026-02-02,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) led a letter with Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state’s voter rolls and its compliance with federal election law.

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As Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5, the letter raised serious concerns about the state’s compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and the overall integrity of federal elections conducted in Illinois.

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“For years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,” said Congresswoman Miller. “The state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.”

.

“Both parties can agree that the American people’s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we’re going to restore the public’s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,” said Congressman Bost. “That process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data – or even no data at all – to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.”

.

“For years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,” said Congressman LaHood. “The House Administration Committee’s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation

to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state’s electoral process.”

.

Click here to read the letter.

.

Background:

This letter follows an oversight inquiry sent by the House Administration

Committee on January 22, 2026, which identified deficiencies in Illinois’ voter list maintenance practices, including counties reporting few or no voter removals in 2024 and widespread failures to provide required data to the Election Assistance Commission.

.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2026/2/lahood-miller-bost-urge-illinois-state-board-of-elections-to-comply-with-house-administration-committee-oversight-request,"LaHood, Miller, Bost Urge Illinois State Board of Elections to Comply with House Administration Committee Oversight Request",2026-02-02,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) joined Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) in sending a letter to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state’s voter rolls and its compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA).

“For years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,” said Congressman LaHood. “The House Administration Committee’s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state’s electoral process.” “Both parties can agree that the American people’s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we’re going to restore the public’s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,” said Congressman Bost. “That process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data – or even no data at all – to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.”

“For years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,” said Congresswoman Miller. “The state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.”

Background:

As Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5th, this letter follows an oversight inquiry sent by the House Administration Committee on January 22nd, 2026, which identified deficiencies in Illinois’ voter list maintenance practices, including counties reporting few or no voter removals in 2024 and widespread failures to provide required data to the Election Assistance Commission.

The full letter can be read here.

Read more in the Washington Examiner.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-miller-bost-lahood-request-answers-illinois-elections-board-voter-roll,"Reps. Miller, Bost, LaHood Request Answers from Illinois Elections Board on Voter Roll Integrity",2026-02-02,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) led a letter with Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state’s voter rolls and its compliance with federal election law.

As Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5, the letter raised serious concerns about the state’s compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and the overall integrity of federal elections conducted in Illinois.

“For years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,” said Congresswoman Miller. “The state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.”

“Both parties can agree that the American people’s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we’re going to restore the public’s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,” said Congressman Bost. “That process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data – or even no data at all – to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.”

“For years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,” said Congressman LaHood. “The House Administration Committee’s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state’s electoral process.”

Click here to read the letter.

Click here to read more on the Washington Examiner.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:58Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/1/bost-secures-7-million-for-southern-illinois-infrastructure-and-emergency-response-projects,BOST SECURES $7 MILLION FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS INFRASTRUCTURE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROJECTS,2026-01-22,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) applauded House approval today of a transportation, health, and security funding package that provides a 3.8% pay raise for members of the military, invests in education and healthcare, and strengthens roads and infrastructure. The package includes $7 million Bost worked to secure for local infrastructure improvements in Clay, Crawford, Jackson, Jasper, and Washington counties.

“This legislation will make a big difference for hardworking Americans, with a pay hike for our troops, investment in rural hospitals, support for students, and $200 million to expand access to safe truck parking – a priority I’ve fought for years to accomplish. I’m proud to say that, on top of all these important victories, we were able to secure funding to improve our roadways, restore critical infrastructure, and strengthen emergency response in Southern Illinois. These are real results that people will see and feel.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-miller-introduces-bill-stop-large-investors-crowding-families-out-homes,Rep. Miller Introduces Bill to Stop Large Investors From Crowding Families Out of Homes,2026-01-21,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL) introduced the American Family Housing Act, following President Donald Trump’s executive order, “Stopping Wall Street From Competing With Main Street Homebuyers.”

The American Family Housing Act directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to restrict large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, putting an end to Wall Street firms driving up prices and pushing American families out of the housing market.

“Homeownership is the foundation of the American Dream,” said Congresswoman Mary Miller. “But today, hardworking families are competing with massive Wall Street firms that are buying up single-family homes and pricing Americans out of their own communities. President Trump is right to confront this crisis, and my American Family Housing Act ensures homes are owned by families, not large institutional investors.”

According to the National Association of Realtors, the average first-time homebuyer is now 40 years old, with first-time buyers making up just 21 percent of the market. A 2024 Government Accountability Office study estimated that institutional investors collectively own roughly 300,000 homes nationwide, with ownership heavily concentrated in metropolitan areas. In some cities in America, institutional investors own 25% of single-family rentals.

The American Family Housing Act:

Directs the Securities and Exchange Commission to monitor and enforce restrictions preventing large institutional investment firms from purchasing single-family homes.

Applies to companies with more than $100 billion in assets under management, ensuring small landlords and local investors are not affected.

Prohibits indirect ownership schemes designed to evade enforcement.

Implements restrictions 100 days after enactment to ensure market stability.

Applies only to future home purchases, with no forced divestment of existing properties.",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/1/bost-backs-responsible-funding-package-to-secure-the-nation-and-rein-in-spending,BOST BACKS RESPONSIBLE FUNDING PACKAGE TO SECURE THE NATION AND REIN IN SPENDING,2026-01-14,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for a foreign operations and financial services funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that prioritizes national security and core government responsibilities. The legislation reduces spending by more than $9 billion compared to current stopgap funding and blocks the continuation of Biden-era priorities.

“When we’re talking about the security of the American people, we need to spend smartly and do what it takes to protect our interests in a dangerous world,” said Bost. “Today’s vote strengthens the focus on our national security while saving taxpayers more than $9 billion. We’re aligned with President Trump and not apologizing for putting America first.”

The funding package supports financial solvency and national security, holds federal agencies accountable, and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Key provisions of H.R. 7006 include:

Strengthening national security and supporting allies like Israel and Taiwan

Cracking down on fentanyl trafficking and stopping taxpayer-funded programs that encourage illegal immigration

Modernizing the IRS to better serve taxpayers while preventing political targeting and fraud

Maintaining long-standing protections to ensure taxpayer dollars are not used to fund abortions

Fully funds the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to ensure it has the tools needed to investigate foreign investment by countries like China

Holding the United Nations accountable by cutting funding, tying assistance to reforms, and withholding taxpayer dollars until real reforms are made

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bost.house.gov/2026/1/bost-secures-funding-for-seven-local-infrastructure-projects,BOST SECURES FUNDING FOR SEVEN LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS,2026-01-08,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauded House passage of a commerce, energy, and interior funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that includes nearly $9 million for seven local infrastructure projects he championed in Congress. The community projects, spanning Clinton, Crawford, Edwards, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, and Union counties, will improve water safety, sanitation, public safety, and emergency communications.

“This spending package provides the certainty needed to unleash America’s energy potential, invest in our military, and modernize our aging infrastructure,” said Bost. “I’m proud to say, it’s an impact that will be felt across Southern Illinois. I worked with local leaders on key priorities to strengthen the safety of our water systems and the effectiveness of emergency response services. All told, we’ve delivered nearly $9 million dollars to make our communities safer and healthier, and that makes a big difference for small communities.”

This funding package includes targeted investments secured by Rep. Bost for Illinois’ 12th District, including:

$2.1 million for Clinton County to upgrade a countywide emergency radio and communication system

$1.636 million for the Village of Maeystown for wastewater treatment facility improvements

$1.2 million for the Village of West Salem for water main replacement

$1 million for the City of Anna for sewer infiltration and inflow improvements

$1 million for the Robinson Palestine Water Commission for a new water treatment plant

$1 million for the City of Casey for sanitary sewer relining

$750,000 for the City of Sparta for a raw water transmission line project

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More information regarding these Community Project Funding requests can be found here.

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###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z