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://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2517,Congressman Baird Announces Significant Health Care Funding for Indiana Through Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced that the State of Indiana will receive nearly $207 million in funding for Fiscal Year 2026 through the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. “Hoosiers in rural communities deserve access to timely, high-quality care,” said Congressman Baird. “I was proud to support the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which authorized the Rural Health Transformation Program to deliver vital funding that will help address provider shortages, barriers to accessing care, and workforce shortages, while allowing our rural health care providers to continue to provide quality care. I am pleased to see these taxpayer funds returned to Hoosiers so Indiana can increase access to care and improve patient outcomes. I thank President Trump for signing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz for his leadership in delivering this critical funding for Hoosiers and Rural America.” The RHT Program was created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed into law by President Trump on July 4, 2025. The RHT Program empowers states to strengthen rural communities by improving health care access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the health care delivery ecosystem. RHT Program funding consists of $50 billion allocated to approved states over five fiscal years, with $10 billion available each fiscal year, beginning in Fiscal Year 2026 and ending in Fiscal Year 2030. Fifty percent of this funding is distributed equally to all approved states, and the remaining 50% will be allocated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) based on a variety of factors including rural population, the proportion of rural health facilities in the state, the situation of certain hospitals in the state, and other factors to be specified by CMS. More information on the Rural Health Transformation Program can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-delivers-working-families-tax-cuts-indiana-awarded-207,Congressman Shreve Delivers Working Families Tax Cuts as Indiana Is Awarded $207 Million for Rural Health,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN — Rep. Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) delivered news that Indiana will receive $206,928,000 in federal funding for the first year of the five-year Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, focused on improving access and quality of care in rural communities across the state. The RHT Program was created under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts law, which Congressman Shreve supported in the House. The program is a $50 billion initiative administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to strengthen rural health systems nationwide. In September, Mr. Shreve joined members of the Indiana delegation in urging HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy, Jr. and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz to award Indiana the maximum funding available through the new program. Beginning in fiscal year 2026, states will receive first-year awards through RHT. CMS says the investment will help states expand access to care in rural communities, strengthen the rural health workforce, modernize facilities and technology, and support innovative models that bring dependable care closer to home.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-fox-news-senator-banks-demands-probe-of-minnesota-childcare-fraud/,ICYMI: Fox News: Senator Banks Demands Probe of Minnesota Childcare Fraud,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Alex Adams urging the department to investigate and review Minnesota’s childcare contracts in light of recent instances of childcare fraud. See excerpts from the story below or read the full story here. Read the full letter here. EXCLUSIVE: Senator Jim Banks, R-Ind., is pushing for a federal investigation after sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) calling forthe agency to construct investigative reports of Somali networks as the roughly $9 billion fraud scandal in Minnesota continues to unfold. The Indiana senator pointed out that the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program is administered by the state government, but is largely funded by federal tax dollars through two programs that provide roughly $300 million in federal childcare subsidies to Minnesota. On Sunday, Banks sent a letter to Alex J. Adams, the Assistant Secretary for Family Support, leading the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at HHS. “I urge ACF to investigate reports of Somali networks creating fake ‘daycare centers’ as vehicles to steal millions of dollars from Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which administers hundreds of millions of dollars in federal childcare subsidies each year,” Banks’ letter to HHS reads. “Clearly, the Walz administration has failed to meet the most basic benchmarks required by ACF,” Banks explained. “Any unlawful behavior uncovered in ACF’s investigation must be immediately referred to the proper federal authorities including ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, and Federal prosecutors.” “I will not stand by while tax dollars meant to support hardworking families are stolen and state officials refuse to act,” Banks added. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-returns-65-million-constituents-through-casework-efforts,Houchin Returns $6.5 Million to Constituents Through Casework Efforts,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced that her office has successfully returned more than $6.5 million to residents of Indiana’s 9th Congressional District through constituent casework assistance with federal agencies. Since taking office, Houchin’s team has worked directly with constituents to resolve issues involving the IRS, Social Security Administration, Medicare, veterans’ benefits, and other federal programs. These efforts have resulted in recovered payments, corrected records, and restored benefits for individuals, families, and small businesses across the district. “Serving the people of Indiana’s 9th District means making sure the federal government works the way it is supposed to,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “Casework is one of the most important responsibilities of our office, and I am proud of the results we have delivered. Every dollar returned represents someone who needed help navigating a government agency that can be unfortunately overwhelming and unresponsive.” One such case involved Doug Drake, President and CEO of Personal Counseling Services, Inc., who faced an unresolved IRS issue that placed significant strain on his nonprofit organization. With assistance from Congresswoman Houchin’s office, the matter was resolved and over $380,000 was returned. “I am extremely grateful for Congresswoman Houchin and her staff,” said Drake. “They stayed on top of our case, communicated clearly, frequently and ultimately helped recover funds that were rightfully owed to my nonprofit. This could not have been accomplished without their assistance.” Another case involved Kettig Coghill and his adult daughter Tasha, who has Down syndrome. After the passing of Coghill’s wife, a Social Security error mistakenly marked Tasha as deceased, cutting off her benefits and Medicare coverage. Rep. Houchin’s office intervened to correct the error and restore her benefits retroactive two years to the date of the mistake. “When my wife passed away and Tasha’s benefits suddenly stopped, it was devastating,” said Coghill. “Congresswoman Houchin’s office treated our situation with compassion and urgency. They helped get everything fixed and restored Tasha’s benefits and Medicare. I will always be thankful for their support during such a difficult time.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/banks-delivers-for-indiana-constiuents-in-first-year-in-the-senate/,Banks Delivers for Indiana Constiuents in First Year in the Senate,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) highlighted his office’s constituent service work over the past year, marking his first year representing Hoosiers in the U.S. Senate. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “In my first year in the Senate, my office delivered real results for Hoosiers. I’m proud of the work we did to help thousands of families and return millions of dollars to Indiana.” Over the past year, Senator Banks’ office delivered the following for Indiana constituents: Assisted 1,138 Hoosiers with federal casework requests Helped return $32,841,023.49 to constituents Responded to 58,811 constituent inquires Arranged 295 U.S. Capitol tours for Hoosiers visiting Washington, D.C. Arranged 31 White House tours for Hoosiers visiting Washington, D.C. In 2026, Senator Banks looks forward to continuing to help Hoosiers who need assistance with a federal agency or who are planning a visit to Washington and want to request tours. Please feel free to contact his office for assistance or visit his website linked here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-shreve-and-mrvan-lead-indiana-delegation-inquiry-indiana-national-guard,Reps. Shreve and Mrvan Lead Indiana Delegation Inquiry on Indiana National Guard Black Hawk Helicopters,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Shelbyville, IN — Today, Representatives Jefferson Shreve (R-IN-06) and Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01) led the Indiana Congressional Delegation in requesting clarity from the National Guard Bureau on plans to deliver Black Hawk helicopters to the Indiana Army National Guard’s 38th Combat Aviation Brigade in Shelbyville. The lawmakers warned that continued uncertainty could undermine military readiness and critical lifesaving missions across Indiana. In a bipartisan, bicameral letter to General Steven Nordhaus, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, the delegation underscored the vital role the 38th Combat Aviation Brigade plays both overseas and at home. The brigade includes roughly 900 Hoosier Guardsmen and has supported 16 deployments since 2001, earning a reputation as a cornerstone of Army aviation in the Midwest. Reps. Shreve and Mrvan were joined by U.S. Rep. Jim Baird (R-IN-04), U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-IN), U.S. Rep. André Carson (D-IN-07), U.S. Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN-09), U.S. Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN-05), U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-IN-03), U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), and U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-IN). The delegation urged the National Guard Bureau to provide a detailed update on its delivery plan and anticipated timeline for each Black Hawk helicopter, stressing that predictability and timeliness are essential to maintaining readiness. Congressman Shreve said, “The men and women of Indiana’s 38th Combat Aviation Brigade repeatedly answer the call to serve. They deserve reliable support and timely access to the equipment they need to protect Hoosiers and carry out their mission.” Congressman Mrvan said, “Thank you to Congressman Shreve and my fellow colleagues from the Indiana Congressional delegation for joining this initiative to ensure the members of the Indiana National Guard have the proper support and equipment to perform their essential services to the best of their abilities.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stutzman-announces-service-academy-nominations,REP. STUTZMAN ANNOUNCES SERVICE ACADEMY NOMINATIONS,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"HOWE, IN – Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) announced which students he nominated to attend our nation’s service academies starting in 2026. Here are the nominees and the academies they were nominated to attend: Christian Touzard from Spencerville, IN - U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Allison Heine from Fort Wayne, IN - U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, & the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Jacob Levitt from Fort Wayne, IN - U.S. Military Academy Jacob Farrell from Fort Wayne, IN - U.S. Air Force Academy Samantha Aselage from Huntertown, IN - U.S. Military Academy & U.S. Air Force Academy Jonah Haines from Fort Wayne, IN - U.S. Air Force Academy Oliver Werling from New Haven, IN - U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Hayden Oberlin from Fort Wayne, IN - U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Luke Wonderham from Monroeville, IN - U.S. Military Academy",1,2026-05-14T06:11:37Z,2026-05-14T06:12:56Z https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/stutzman-brecheen-lead-over-100-house-gop-members-asking-syrian-oversight,"STUTZMAN, BRECHEEN LEAD OVER 100 HOUSE GOP MEMBERS IN ASKING FOR SYRIAN OVERSIGHT",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) joined Congressman Josh Brecheen (OK-02) and more than 100 other House Republicans in asking for increased oversight of Syria as the U.S. removes sanctions against the country through the FY26 NDAA. The joint statement mentions, “The mass murder of the Syrian Christians, Druze, Alawites, Kurds, and other religious and ethnic minorities must be a thing of the past. Congress is committed to keeping a watchful eye on the new al-Sharaa Administration to ensure protections for religious and ethnic minorities in Syria… “As Members of Congress, we understand that the Syrian government’s adherence to the conditions laid out in the NDAA’s sanction repeal language is essential for lasting peace in the Middle East and Syria’s prosperity.” Rep. Stutzman said the following statement:",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-applaud-bill-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-becoming-law/,"Young, Kaine Applaud Bill to Formally End Iraq Wars Becoming Law",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) applauded the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq. Young and Kaine’s bipartisan legislation to repeal these AUMFswas included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed by President Trump last night. “It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all,” said Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “This is an important step of what I like to call legislative hygiene, for Congress to formally end these two wars. The 1991 and 2002 AUMFs are no longer necessary and leaving them on the books carries risk of potential misuse. I want to thank my Congressional colleagues and President Trump for supporting this legislation and specifically thank Senator Kaine for his partnership on this effort for many years. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of the men and women who served in these two conflicts. We honor your service and sacrifice.” “The repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq—the first repeal of an authorization in more than 50 years—is historic. It allows the American people, including the generations of servicemembers who served in Iraq, to finally close the book on this part of our nation’s history,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “There have been too many instances of Congress abdicating its role in matters of war and peace, but the repeal of these AUMFs is a significant step forward in reclaiming our solemn constitutional responsibility and saying no to forever endless wars. I’m thankful to the cosponsors of this legislation and my colleagues for fulfilling our duty, to the President for signing the legislation into law, and to the many advocates, veterans, and military families who worked tirelessly alongside us to get this done.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-announces-service-academy-nominations-indianas-9th-district-students,Houchin Announces Service Academy Nominations for Indiana’s 9th District Students,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced her nominations for students from Indiana’s 9th Congressional District to the United States service academies. These nominations recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to serving the nation. Students nominated represent schools across the district and were selected through a competitive application and interview process conducted by Congresswoman Houchin’s Military Academy Nomination Boards. “It is an honor to nominate these exceptional students to our nation’s service academies,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “Service to our country in the Armed Forces is one of the most honorable things a person can do, and each of these young men and women has demonstrated strong character and a commitment to service above self. Indiana’s 9th District is proud of them, and I have no doubt they will represent our state and nation with the highest integrity and excellence.” U.S. Air Force Academy Abigail Goodwin – Bloomington High School South Jacen Madeira – Bloomington High School North Connor Zwissler – Our Lady of Providence High School U.S. Military Academy Jackson Ehringer – Floyd Central High School Laila Gilbert – Floyd Central High School Abigail Goodwin – Bloomington High School South Jacen Madeira – Bloomington High School North Mack Murphy – Bloomington High School South Blake Russell – Jeffersonville High School Liam Slotten – Our Lady of Providence High School Amber “Paige” Summers – Corydon Central High School U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Jacen Madeira – Bloomington High School North Sarah Minton – New Albany Senior High School U.S. Naval Academy Amelia Dykes – Our Lady of Providence High School Megan Fondy – Floyd Central High School Abigail Goodwin – Bloomington High School South Lincoln Greene – Corydon Central High School Jacen Madeira – Bloomington High School North Andrew Millay – Our Lady of Providence High School Sarah Minton – New Albany Senior High School Amber “Paige” Summers – Corydon Central High School Dale Lyles, retired Adjutant General of the Indiana National Guard, who serves as chair of Congresswoman Houchin’s Military Academy Nomination Boards, praised the students for their dedication and preparedness. “The quality of applicants this year was exceptional,” said Lyles. “These students impressed the nomination boards with their academic excellence, leadership experience, and genuine desire to serve our country. They represent the very best of Indiana’s 9th District.” A congressional nomination is required for appointment to the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Final appointment decisions are made by each academy.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-congratulates-president-trumps-u-s-attorney-nominees-for-indiana-on-senate-confirmation/,Sen. Banks Congratulates President Trump’s U.S. Attorney Nominees for Indiana on Senate Confirmation,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released a statement congratulating President Trump’s nominees, Adam Mildred (Northern District of Indiana) and Thomas Wheeler II (Southern District of Indiana), on their final confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as U.S. Attorneys for Indiana. Said Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Adam Mildred and Tom Wheeler both bring decades of legal experience and a deep commitment to upholding law and order. I congratulate them on their final confirmation and am looking forward to the work they will do for Hoosiers across Indiana.” Adam Mildred (Nominee for United States Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana) Adam Mildred is currently a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Allen County and was formerly the Chief Deputy Prosecutor in Noble County. Adam is a veteran Indiana prosecutor and has prosecuted over 200 cases, including trials involving homicide, robbery, drug trafficking, and federal firearms offenses. He holds a B.S. from Ball State University and a J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law. Tom Wheeler (Nominee for United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana) Tom Wheeler is currently the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and was previously the Acting General Counsel at the Department of Education.. He has held senior roles across the federal government, including Acting Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice, Senior Advisor to the White House School Safety Commission, and Counsel to the Secretary of Education. Before returning to government, Wheeler was a partner at Bose McKinney & Evans LLP, a top Indianapolis law firm, where he represented federal, state, and local public entities. He holds a B.S. from Indiana University and a J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-jim-banks-visits-indiana-national-guard-troops-stationed-in-washington-d-c/,"Sen. Jim Banks Visits Indiana National Guard Troops Stationed in Washington, D.C.",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"This morning, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) visited Indiana National Guard troops who are in Washington D.C. to support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission as part of President Trump’s Make America Safe Again agenda. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Our Indiana National Guard soldiers represent the best of our state. It was great to spend time with them this morning and thank them for the important work they’re doing to help protect our nation’s capital.” Photos available here. Background: 300 Indiana National Guard solders arrived in Washington D.C. earlier this month to assist local and federal law enforcement partners to help deter crime and maintain public order. Soldiers trained at Camp Atterbury to prepare for the mission. As the mission evolves, they will continue training alongside Joint Task Force-District of Columbia. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-the-student-loan-tax-elimination-act/,Senator Banks Introduces the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced theStudent Loan Tax Elimination Act. This bill would eliminate origination fees for federal student loans. Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.) and Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) are leading the bill in the House. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Students deserve a fair deal when paying for college. My bill ends a hidden tax on student loans and ensures our next generation has a greater opportunity to receive a more affordable education.” Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.): “Student loan debt is holding Virginia families and the overall economy back. It should be easier, not harder, for American students to afford to go to college if that is the right path for them. That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to finally get rid of an antiquated tax on student loan borrowers.” Melanie Storey, President & CEO of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA): “The Student Loan Tax Elimination Act ensures federal student loans include only the funds needed to support educational costs — eliminating a hidden tax on students and families — and provides a key step toward greater transparency and affordability.” Key Provisions of the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act are: Amend the Higher Education Act to repeal origination fees imposed upon federal student loans. Background: The Higher Education Act of 1965 built the structure for a bank-based student lending program, a precursor to the modern student financial aid system. To help lenders manage the costs of those programs, Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized loans were charged a 1.057 percent fee, and PLUS loans were charged a 4 percent fee. Legislation in 2010 took all federal student loans out of the hands of private lenders and into the Department of Education. Despite this, these fees have remained. According to the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, who supports this bill, the federal government has taken in more than $6.7 billion over a five-year period from this hidden tax. During a time where college costs continue to soar, this fee continues to artificially inflate costs for students. Repealing this fee would help students and families get a more affordable education. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-youngs-office-helps-2800-hoosiers-in-2025/,"Senator Young’s Office Helps 2,800 Hoosiers in 2025",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) and his staff have helped more than 2,800 Hoosiers resolve cases before federal agencies this year. The work of Young’s constituent services team resulted in nearly $30 million being returned to Hoosier taxpayers. Senator Young helped recover and return over $24 million from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to Hoosiers in 2025. An additional $5.6 million was recovered and returned from Social Security and Veterans Affairs (VA) claims. In addition to helping constituents receive benefits, Senator Young’s constituent service team helps expedite passport applications, obtain missing commendation medals for veterans, navigate international adoption cases, and more. “Inquiries from members of Congress can help kickstart the process for constituents in need of assistance navigating federal agencies. I’m grateful for our team and their continued commitment to helping Hoosiers,” said Young.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-baldwin-lead-effort-torevitalize-great-lakes-shipbuilding/,"Young, Baldwin Lead Effort to Revitalize Great Lakes Shipbuilding",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) led a group of their colleagues in calling on President Donald Trump to ensure that implementation of his Executive Order “Restoring America’s Shipbuilding Dominance” strengthens and revitalizes the Great Lakes shipbuilding industry. Specifically, the senators are calling on the Trump Administration to establish Maritime Prosperity Zones in regions outside the traditional coastal shipbuilding centers, including the Great Lakes. “We share your goal of a revitalized shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing industry and believe that the hardworking people and dynamic economies of the Great Lakes region will be essential to achieving it,” wrote the senators. “The Great Lakes are already home to shipbuilders, manufacturers, steel producers, casting and forging, and maritime industry suppliers. In many ways, the Great Lakes states are well positioned for sustained national investment that would build on the current shipbuilding and manufacturing capacity in the region.” In the letter, the senators lay out a 5-point recommendation plan for the Trump Administration to take into consideration when establishing Maritime Prosperity Zones. In addition to Senators Young and Baldwin, the letter is also co-signed by Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.). The letter is supported by the Fincantieri Marinette Marine Shipyard. Young is the Republican Senate lead on the Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act, comprehensive legislation to revitalize the United States shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries. Full text of the letter is available here and below: Dear Mr. President: As Senators representing Great Lakes states, we write regarding your Executive Order, “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance,” signed on April 9, 2025. We share your goal of a revitalized shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing industry and believe that the hardworking people and dynamic economies of the Great Lakes region will be essential to achieving it. While Congress works to pass the Ships for America Act (S. 1541), which we believe will provide additional resources and tools that your Administration can use to turbocharge American shipbuilding, we would like to offer recommendations for complementary executive action that can be implemented in the near-term. Section 11 of the Executive Order calls for a plan to establish Maritime Prosperity Zones in regions outside of traditional coastal shipbuilding centers, including the Great Lakes. We agree that the Great Lakes can play a vital role in reclaiming our nation’s position as a global leader in shipbuilding. The Great Lakes are already home to shipbuilders, manufacturers, steel producers, casting and forging, and maritime industry suppliers. Additionally, efforts are underway to connect industry leaders in the Great Lakes and develop a shipbuilding consortium for organized and strategic collaboration. In many ways, the Great Lakes states are well positioned for sustained national investment that would build on the current shipbuilding and manufacturing capacity in the region. A critical component of your plan to establish Maritime Prosperity Zones is identifying opportunities to incentivize and facilitate domestic investment in maritime industries. We would like to share recommendations for your consideration that we believe will best suit Great Lakes Prosperity Zones, leverage Midwest manufacturing strengths, create jobs, fund infrastructure investment, and upgrade the nation’s military preparedness. 1. Define Great Lakes Prosperity Zones by Activity By using an industry reference rather than geography, shipyards, their suppliers, and customers engaged in the maritime industry, as well as their educational and training partners, will benefit from Great Lakes Prosperity Zones. By doing so, the focus of Great Lakes Prosperity Zones is on the shipyard and related port, manufacturing and educational industries, not specific neighborhoods that happen to overlap with shipyards. This approach assures a common application of prosperity zones across the Great Lakes without winners and losers based on geographic location and encourages emerging or resurgent shipyards and related activities currently not operational. 2. Support the Creation of a Great Lakes Shipbuilding Consortium Shipyards, steel producers, and manufacturing suppliers in Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana have the capacity and workforce to build Navy and Coast Guard vessels, icebreakers, commercial ferries, and maritime security craft. Groups of shipyards and their Great Lakes-based supply chain partners are forming a Great Lakes Shipbuilding Consortium to collaborate on modular construction of U.S. government vessels. We recommend commissioning and funding a study led by the Consortium to facilitate investments in infrastructure, workforce, and technology. 3. Support Public and Private Investment into Shipyards, Ports, Supply Chain Modernization and Industrial Technology The maritime industry, including many of the suppliers that serve U.S. shipyards—like metal fabricators, casting and forging, and engine component manufacturers—operate with aging equipment and limited capital. While the U.S. capital markets and general economy are the best source for funding the maritime sector, the White House should continue federal investments, like MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant Program and the Port Development Infrastructure Program. It should also explore additional mechanisms to support the industry, especially small and mid-sized manufacturers. Strengthening our supplier base is key to scaling up ship production and maintaining a resilient and surge-capable industrial ecosystem. 4. Create the Conditions for Sustained Success To effectively establish Great Lakes Prosperity Zones, your Administration should streamline and increase competition in military new construction and repair contracting procedures. We recommend creating a Great Lakes Home Port designation to explore the feasibility of conducting military maritime repair work on the Great Lakes. It is also critical that your Administration consistently enforce any existing Buy American requirements related to infrastructure projects and vessel construction and operation. 5. Expand Federal Investment in Workforce Training and Apprenticeships We must develop a next-generation workforce that can meet the demands of modern shipbuilding and marine technology. The White House should support targeted federal grants to high schools, community colleges, trade schools, and union training centers in the Great Lakes region to expand apprenticeship programs in welding, electrical systems, naval architecture, marine engineering, and precision manufacturing. A robust pipeline of skilled workers is essential to meet current and future demand. We look forward to working with you to meet the current moment to restore America’s maritime dominance. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-calls-coordinated-us-response-china-and-russias-growing,Congressman Shreve Calls for Coordinated U.S. Response to China and Russia’s Growing Malign Influence,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) led a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging a coordinated U.S. strategy to counter the growing malign influence of China and Russia through the BRICS bloc across Latin America. Congressman Shreve was joined by Reps. Pat Harrigan (NC), Cory Mills (FL), María Elvira Salazar (FL), and Keith Self (TX). BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries. Through the bloc, China and Russia are expanding their economic and political reach in ways that undermine democratic governance and threaten U.S. interests in the Western Hemisphere. Engaging reform-minded democratic leaders in Bolivia, Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela is a critical step toward strengthening U.S. influence in the region. Building strategic partnerships with these nations will help counter threats and advance shared U.S. interests. Congressman Shreve stated, “We urge a coordinated strategy to counter BRICS malign influence across Latin America—through stronger diplomacy with reform-minded governments, targeted development assistance, and energy and critical-mineral partnerships that provide Western alternatives. Strong democratic coalitions are the best defense against coercion from China and Russia.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-financial-services-committee-advances-two-stutzman-bills,HOUSE FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE ADVANCES TWO STUTZMAN BILLS,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House Financial Services Committee passed two pieces of legislation introduced by Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03): The Regulation A+ Improvement Act The Streamlining Rural Housing Act The Regulation A+ Improvement Act This legislation will support the growth of small to mid-size businesses and expand investment opportunities for Americans across the country by increasing the offering limit for Regulation A Tier 2 offerings. These offerings provide a more accessible and cost-effective way for mid-sized and smaller companies to raise capital from a wider range of investors, with less government red tape and compliance costs. The bill doubles the offering limit of Reg A Tier 2 offerings from $75 million annually to $150 million annually and requires the offering limit to be adjusted every two years to the nearest $10,000 to reflect the changes in inflation. This adjustment will help more mid-size or smaller companies raise capital, create growth, jobs, and make important investments in research and development. The Streamlining Rural Housing Act This legislation was passed as part of the Housing for the 21st Century Act. The bill will streamline environmental reviews for rural housing projects that utilize both HUD and USDA programs. Typically, rural housing projects that utilize both HUD and USDA assistance must undergo slightly different but separate environmental reviews and inspections to receive funding. This creates unnecessary government roadblocks for developers and drives up costs, ultimately contributing to the affordable housing shortage in rural communities nationwide. The bill requires HUD and USDA to evaluate the feasibility of a joint environmental review and inspection process for these projects, as well as categorical exclusion for jointly funded projects, making affordable rural housing easier to build and cutting burdensome government red tape. Rep. Stutzman said the following of both bills advancing:",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/banks-votes-to-pass-the-fy-2026-ndaa-delivers-key-wins-for-indiana/,"Banks Votes to Pass the FY 2026 NDAA, Delivers Key Wins for Indiana",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after voting to pass Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act with a 77 to 20 vote and deliver key legislative priorities for Indiana. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Today, I proudly voted to pass the FY2026 NDAA delivering key investments in Indiana that I fought to secure. These wins strengthen our military, support Hoosier job growth, and ensure Indiana remains a leader in national defense and technological innovation.” Provisions secured by Senator Banks in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act: Crane MILCON funding $72 million in military construction (MILCON) approved to build a new pyrotechnics production facility at Crane Army Ammunition Activity. Separately, a funding bill passed last month includes $100 million in appropriations for this facility. Muscatatuck Urban Training Center Requires the Department of War to provide Congress with studies on how best to manage and fund ranges like Muscatatuck Urban Training Center. Navy Small Modular Reactor pilot program Requires the Navy to establish a pilot program for a Navy installation to be powered by a Small Modular Reactor (SMR). Quantum Corridor funding $12 million approved for the Quantum Corridor project. Trine University Artificial Intelligence for Maritime Maneuver (AIMM) $5 million approved for Trine University’s Artificial Intelligence for Maritime Maneuver (AIMM) partnership with Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane to build and deploy fully autonomous low-cost vessels powered by artificial intelligence for the Navy. This program supports students at Trine, engineers at Crane, and midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy. Shelbyville Aviation Hangar $55 million in military construction authorized for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition at the Indiana National Guard facility in Shelbyville. Training Facility for the 122nd Fighter Wing $18 million in military construction for an F-16 Mission Training Facility at the 122nd Fighter Wing at the Fort Wayne Air National Guard Base. Buying Faster than the Enemy Act Speeds up military acquisitions by streamlining procurement, reducing red tape, and prioritizing commercial solutions for both traditional and nontraditional contractors. REFOCUS DODEA Act Requires the DoW to implement rules limiting cellphone use in classrooms for military children to reduce distractions, with exceptions for emergencies. Background: The National Defense Authorization Act is U.S. federal law that authorizes annual funding for the Department of Defense and sets policies and priorities. Senator Banks served in the U.S. Navy Reserve and is an Afghanistan veteran. He previously served on the Armed Services Committee in the House of Representatives as the representative for Indiana’s third district. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-jim-banks-praises-military-recruitment-surge-under-president-trump-on-senate-floor/,Sen. Jim Banks Praises Military Recruitment Surge Under President Trump on Senate Floor,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Click Image Above to Watch the Full Speech “Thank you, Mr. President. Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Reagan National Defense Forum at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. I’ve been to the event a few times before. It’s a beautiful setting. The library is such a great tribute to one of our greatest presidents, Ronald Reagan, who is known for his efforts to rebuild the military through peace through strength in the Reagan years that we often think about and talk much about today. The forum has been around for 12 years. This was the 12th annual event, and I’ve been able to attend the incredible event a few times early on in my time in the House. It’s been a few years since I’ve been there. But the event is filled with some of our nation’s top military leaders, cabinet officials, administration officials, much of the leadership of the Pentagon. It’s also a bipartisan event with a congressional delegation from both sides of the aisle, includes also leaders and innovators in our national defense industry who join the event every year, as well. At this past forum, I participated in a panel discussion about recruitment and retention in our military. I was actually joined by a former Democrat colleague of mine in the House, Jimmy Panetta. His father, Leon Panetta, was sitting in the audience to hear his son and myself and the other members of the panel talk about this important subject. The panel got me thinking, though, as we close out 2025, about how far we have come in just one year, on this subject, recruitment and retention in the military. As we close out 2025, I can think of many big wins that have come out of the Trump administration, but none as significant as what President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth have done to repair the recruitment crisis that took place on Joe Biden’s watch. This unbelievable accomplishment doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves, and that’s why I wanted to come down to the floor today and talk about that incredible success story and share with you some of what I talked about in that panel a little over a week ago. When I served in the House of Representatives, before I got to the Senate, I chaired the Military Personnel Subcommittee on the House Armed Services Committee, so I saw up close how bad things got under Joe Biden, especially at the Pentagon and in our military. When Joe Biden was president, he presided over the worst recruitment crisis in the over 50 years of an all-volunteer force of our military. In 2022, the Army set a goal to recruit 60,000 new soldiers, but only managed to recruit 45,000. That’s 15,000 soldiers short. And the same thing happened again the following year in 2023, when the Army was, again, 15,000 soldiers short of its 65,000-soldier recruitment goal. When you add up the recruitment losses under Joe Biden between 2021 and 2025, the Army shrank by 40,000 soldiers due to a lack of new recruits. That’s as much as four divisions of troops in the United States Army. The same story, Mr. President, happened to the Navy, which I know is important to you, it’s important to me. In 2023, the Navy was 7,500 short of its goal to recruit 37,000 new sailors. In 2024, it was nearly 5,000 short of its goal to recruit over 40,000 new sailors. So between 2021 and 2025, the Navy shrank by 16,000 sailors, which is about three aircraft carriers’ worth of United States sailors. That’s how bad the recruitment crisis got on Joe Biden’s watch. But how did this happen? I think this is important context and history, when we evaluate where we are today. It’s clear to everyone that the Biden administration treated the military as a political experiment. I don’t think, Mr. President, we’ve seen the military politicized in a way that it was under the four years that Joe Biden was president ever before in American history. The Biden Pentagon dropped physical fitness standards to support woke DEI initiatives throughout the armed services. As a side note, by the way, the Marines were the only good news during those four years, because the Marine Corps never dropped their standards. But you have former Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, who immediately after Joe Biden was sworn into office ordered a 60-day standdown to combat extremism in the military. They spent nearly 6 million man hours military-wide on that standdown. Those are hours, Mr. President, that could have been spent on training our troops to combat our biggest enemy, our biggest threat, that being China, or, I would contend to you, that those 6 million man hours could have been spent on preparing to evacuate and leave Afghanistan in a much more responsible way than what the military did. Instead, they focused on politics at the beginning of the Biden administration. Then, you had General C.Q. Brown, at the time the General Chief of Staff of the Air Force, who issued racial quotas for the United States Air Force. You had Joe Biden’s Secretary of the Army arguing that it was a bad thing that more than 80% of our recruits come from military families. Think about that for a minute. She said there was, “a risk of developing a warrior caste in America.” When the Secretary of the Army should have been trying to boost recruitment, she insulted patriotic Americans who are inspired by their parents to serve and suggested that the Army didn’t want them. It’s no wonder that we had a recruitment crisis in the United States Army. Mr. President, when you combine all of these factors, it’s no wonder that the military under Joe Biden failed to meet its recruitment numbers. Simply put: fewer young Americans wanted to serve, because they stopped believing in the mission. I often think back to an article from the Wall Street Journal that I read back in 2023. It had a poll that showed that patriotism among Americans, especially young Americans, had plummeted to historic lows. Again, 2023, Joe Biden is the president, aftermath of what happened in Afghanistan, all of this other foolish experimentation, the politicization of our military. According to that poll, only 38% of Americans in 2023 said that patriotism was very important to them. That’s down from 70% in the 1990’s. And to this day, this story astonishes me. I’d love to see an update on that poll to show what the patriotism numbers look like today. Mr. President, I know you know this: you can’t build a military without patriots. You can’t ask young men and women to put their lives on the line when the culture tells you that the country isn’t worth fighting and dying for. You can’t expect the next generation of Americans to raise their right hand, Mr. President, like you did, like I did, like so many of our colleagues did in the United States Senate, to protect this nation, when so few believe that America is the greatest country in the history of the world. Something else that I think about is how catastrophic the withdraw from Afghanistan played a huge part in the shortage of the military recruitment under Joe Biden, as well. Americans saw 13 brave servicemembers killed at Abbey Gate, including a Hoosier, and American guns and vehicles abandoned to the Taliban on that embarrassing and disastrous and deadly day. It didn’t exactly inspire people to serve. Young Americans asked themselves, “who wants to be part of that type of military?” And they said, “not me.” Mr. President, the good news, though, and I want to get to the good news, because this is really good news — the good news is that this has all been fixed in a really short period of time. President Trump changed everything. In fact, it changed immediately on election day, just a little over a year ago. Military leaders testified to the fact that military recruitment increased dramatically the day that Donald Trump won the election. The Army met its 2025 recruitment numbers four months early. The Army reached its retention goals for the whole career in just six months. Navy recruitment hit a 20-year record. And how did all of this happen? President Trump and Secretary Hegseth inspired young people to serve again. Because President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are restoring our military’s strength and greatness. They cut away the woke, DEI initiatives throughout the Department of War, and focused on what really matters to our military: patriotism, a sense of mission, and lethality. Under Joe Biden, young Americans saw the botched withdrawal of Afghanistan. Today, they see a military that puts America first, taking out narco-terrorist drug boats before they can bring deadly drugs into our country. 71% of American’s say that they support these strikes on these drug boats. When you ask young men and women, if that’s the type of military they want to be part of, one that’s stopping drugs from flooding into America, killing our brothers, our sisters, our neighbors, our friends, you get an overwhelming yes. When America is strong, when America is confident, when America wins, our young people want to be part of that, they want to serve. Patriotism isn’t dead, it was just dormant during those four years, waiting for leadership that America can believe in, like what we’ve got in the White House today in Donald Trump. Secretary of War Hegseth is doing an extraordinary job. He’s the exact leader at the department that we need to restore the focus on lethality, after four disastrous years under Joe Biden, when the focus was on anything but that. He has brought back the warrior ethos to our military. And has worked hard to ensure that America’s military can meet tomorrow’s challenges. Our enemies have been put on notice under Pete Hegseth’s leadership at the Department of War. Mr. President, the path forward is clear: we must continue supporting this administration’s efforts to restore our military and make our military as great as it can be again. Our all-volunteer military depends on Americans who choose to serve, and Americans will choose to serve when they believe in the mission, trust their leaders, and take pride in this great country. President Trump is giving them that, and America is stronger for it. That’s some great news. Mr. President, as we close out 2025, there are so many things to talk about. But this accomplishment, in and of itself–what President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have done to restore recruitment, save our military, is really good news that I wanted to come to the floor and talk about as we close out this year on the eve of going home forthis Christmas break. Mr. President, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year. I’m looking forward to a lot more good news like this in 2026. Thank you. I yield back.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-justin-olson-before-the-senate-judiciary-committee/,Senator Banks Introduces Justin Olson Before the Senate Judiciary Committee,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced Justin Olson, President Trump’s nominee for the Southern District of Indiana before the Senate Judiciary Committee. See the full introduction here. See remarks below: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s an honor to be before this committee and introduce President Trump’s nominee for the Southern District of Indiana. Justin Olson is well qualified for this vital position. He earned his undergraduate degree from Grove City College. He went on to earn his law degree at Indiana University’s Maurer School of Law. For five years, Justin served his country as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Southern District of Indiana. There, he led efforts to combat healthcare fraud and address the opioid crisis. Justin has fought to protect core American liberties. He’s currently representing Riley Gaines and other female athletes who have been forced to compete against men in sports, and as a dad of three daughters, I’m very grateful for his leadership on that front. Justin is seeking justice for women who have been harmed by unsafe and discriminatory practices. Justin himself is a husband and father to five children; they’re all sitting back behind me. and he’s a recognized leader in our community in Indianapolis. He’s served as an elder at his church and a Board member of the Jewish Community Center of Indianapolis. This is the first time, Mr. Chairman, I’ve been through this process, being able to weigh in to the President of the United States and interview perspective judges to serve on the federal court, on the federal bench, and one thing that strikes me about Justin is his courage. That’s what I’m looking for when it comes to a judge who is serving on the federal level from my home state. Frankly, I had never met or heard of Justin before I went through this process. Didn’t have a relationship with him, but I was blown away by his credentials, his background, what he brings to the table. There are lots of things you can say in an interview, but you can’t fake courage, you can’t fake your record, and Justin Olson has a record of doing the right thing and stepping up to the plate. I’m so grateful to President Trump who nominated Justin Olson to serve as a judge on the Southern District of Indiana. I look forward to voting for him, and I ask this committee to give him your full support. I’m confident he will serve our state and his country well. It’s my honor to support him. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I yield back.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-for-annual-defense-bill-to-support-our-military-keep-america-secure/,"Young Votes for Annual Defense Bill to Support Our Military, Keep America Secure",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) voted for thefinal National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. The legislation passed the Senate 77-20 and will now be sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The annual defense bill sets policy for the Department of Defense (DoD), establishes national security priorities, and gives service members a much-deserved pay raise. “The National Defense Authorization Act is one of the most important pieces of legislation Congress considers each year. I’m pleased this year’s bill includes several priorities I’ve worked on to modernize our defense capabilities, support Indiana’s defense industrial base and workforce, and maintain American leadership in biotech. This year’s NDAA also includes my bill to repeal the Gulf and Iraq War AUMFs and close the book on these ‘forever wars.’ I’ve been pushing for years to repeal these outdated AUMFs, and I am pleased that my repeal bill is included in the final NDAA. I look forward to President Trump signing this critical bill into law,” said Senator Young. Senator Young worked to secure the following provisions in this year’s NDAA: Support for Indiana’s defense capabilities and technologies: $10 million for reusable hypersonic test bed integration and testing for MACH-TB at Naval Surface Warfare Center-Crane Division (NSWC Crane) in southern Indiana. $10 million for PELE microreactor production by BWXT, which has a facility in Mount Vernon, and supported by Rolls Royce in Indianapolis. This cutting-edge technology will provide American military bases and installations with resilient, reliable electricity. $5 million for AI Maritime Maneuver (2.0) funding to support Trine University and NSWC Crane’s collaborative development of AI-enabled maritime maneuvering and navigation. Anti-Submarine Warfare Equipment funding to protect our Navy as they are on the forefront of securing vital sea lanes, securing commerce, and reducing threats to the homeland from the navies of China and Russia. Sonobuoys, like those manufactured by Ultra Maritime in Columbia City, are a vital tool in detecting and tracking submarine threats from our peer competitors. $5 million to support the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, led by the Indiana-based Applied Research Institute (ARI), that will accelerate national security innovation and deliver emerging technologies to the DoD. Senator Young supported ARI’s winning application for this Hub project earlier this year. Authorizations for the procurement of additional Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), which will be built by AM General in Mishawaka. $12 million for the Quantum Communications Corridor to boost Indiana’s quantum footprint. Critical updates to Indiana’s defense infrastructure: $72 million for Crane Army Ammunition Activity to modernize the production of pyrotechnics. $55 million to the Indiana Army National Guard in Shelbyville for critical flight facility upgrades. $18 million for an F-16 training facility in Fort Wayne. The AUMF repeal bill, authored by Senators Young and Tim Kaine (D-Va.), to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against Iraq. The Gulf War started 34 years ago, and the Iraq War began 22 years ago. These conflicts have long ended, and today Iraq is a partner, not an adversary. This legislation, which was included in both the House-version and the Senate-version of the NDAA, repeals the outdated AUMFs and close the book on these forever wars. The BIOSECURE Act, legislation to prohibit federal contracting with certain biotechnology providers connected to foreign adversaries. This effort stems in part from Senator Young’s role as chair of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB). The NDAA also includes 17 other NSCEB recommendations that would spur biotech innovation critical to our national security and defense capabilities and ensure the U.S. maintains global leadership in biotechnology. Provisions included in the Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) to authorize funding, provide legal authorities, and enhance oversight of the U.S. Intelligence Community. The NDAA includes language that would help keep America secure by addressing threats to our defense, industrial, agricultural, and health sectors. Three pieces of legislation authored by Senator Young were included in the IAA and the NDAA:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-applauds-president-trumps-decision-to-declare-fentanyl-a-weapon-of-mass-destruction/,Senator Banks Applauds President Trump’s Decision to Declare Fentanyl a Weapon of Mass Destruction,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) applauded President Trump’s decision to designate fentanyl as a “weapon of mass destruction,” as part of efforts to stop the deadly threat posed by narco-terrorists. Senator Banks’ first bill in the 119th Congress was the Countering Beijing’s Weaponization (CBW) of Fentanyl Act. This legislation would amend the Chemical and Biological Weapons Control and Warfare Elimination Act of 1991 to define fentanyl and fentanyl precursors as chemical and biological weapons in U.S. law. This bill would also sanction Chinese Communist Party officials for refusing to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors to the United States. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Declaring fentanyl a weapon of mass destruction is a critical step to combating the deadly flow of poison coming into our country. President Trump is fighting back against the CCP and narco-terrorists who want to kill our kids.” Full text of the bill can be found here. Read more about Senator Banks’ bill here. Background: Senator Jim Banks previously introduced the Countering Beijing’s Weaponization (CBW) of Fentanyl Act last year as a member of the House of Representatives. Additionally, then-Rep. Banks introduced the Stop CCP Fentanyl Act, which aimed to sanction Chairman Xi and China unless they halted fentanyl exports. His amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, requiring the Department of Defense to determine whether PRC officials assisted in or were aware of the transportation of fentanyl precursors to Mexican drug cartels, was signed into law. 2,130 Hoosiers lost their lives to overdoses in 2023, with the primary cause being fentanyl. In 2023, the DEA seized over 80 million fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills and nearly 12,000 pounds of fentanyl powder—equivalent to more than 390 million lethal doses. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-releases-statement-after-briefing-by-hegseth-rubio-on-narcoterrorist-strikes-2/,"Senator Banks Releases Statement After Briefing by Hegseth, Rubio on Narcoterrorist Strikes",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Following a briefing by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released the following statement applauding the Trump administration’s continued efforts to combat narcoterrorists bringing drugs to the United States. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “I’ve met too many Hoosiers who have lost loved ones to drugs. President Trump’s strikes on narcoterrorist operations are preventing these deadly drugs from ever reaching our shores and killing more Americans. He has my full support.” See Senator Banks’ comments regarding narcoterrorists efforts below: Senator Jim Banks on Fox and Friends Senator Banks on Fox News Sunday Senator Banks on The Will Cain Show ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-releases-statement-after-briefing-by-hegseth-rubio-on-narcoterrorist-strikes/,"Senator Banks Releases Statement After Briefing by Hegseth, Rubio on Narcoterrorist Strikes",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Following a briefing by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) released the following statement applauding the Trump administration’s continued efforts to combat narcoterrorists bringing drugs to the United States. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “I’ve met too many Hoosiers who have lost loved ones to drugs. President Trump’s strikes on narcoterrorist operations are preventing these deadly drugs from ever reaching our shores and killing more Americans. He has my full support.” See Senator Banks’ comments regarding narcoterrorists efforts below: Senator Jim Banks on Fox and Friends Senator Banks on Fox News Sunday Senator Banks on The Will Cain Show ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-leads-effort-to-designate-calumet-region-as-national-heritage-area/,Young Leads Effort to Designate Calumet Region as National Heritage Area,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced legislation to designate the Calumet Region, which includes Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties in Indiana and Will and Cook counties in Illinois, as a National Heritage Area (NHA). NHAs are designated by Congress to recognize places where natural, cultural, historical, and recreational resources converge to form nationally significant landscapes. The Calumet Region has long been a center of industrial growth and remains the leading steel-producing region in the United States today. Located at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, the area was the site of early advancements in ecology, has been registered as a natural botanical preserve, and is home to the Indiana Dunes National Park and the Pullman National Historical Park. The economic opportunities combined with natural resources have led to decades of migration of working class families to the region. “The Calumet Region’s industrial legacy, unique environment, and recreational spaces have long made the area an attractive destination to live, work, and visit. Our efforts to designate the region as a National Heritage Area will preserve and promote its rich resources and culture for years to come,” said Senator Young. “The Calumet region is both rich in history and natural resources, home to the Pullman National Historical Park, the coast of Lake Michigan, and the Indiana Dunes National Park,” said Senator Durbin. “I’m joining Senator Young to introduce legislation that would establish a Calumet National Heritage Area to honor the history, culture, and rich environment in the region.” “The Calumet region tells the story of Northwest Indiana’s history and natural beauty. This NHA designation will protect it for future generations and strengthen our local communities,” said Senator Banks. “It’s important that we honor and preserve areas that played pivotal roles in both our state and nation’s history,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation with Senator Young and Senator Durbin, not only to recognize the Calumet region’s cultural legacy and the many ways immigrants enrich our communities, but also to ensure its preservation by establishing the Calumet National Heritage Area for future generations to experience and learn from.” The designation of the Calumet National Heritage Area would enhance existing efforts to promote the cultural, natural, historical, and recreational resources of the Calumet Region made by Indiana, Illinois, public-private partnerships, and volunteers. U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-2), Rudy Yakym (R-IN-2), and Frank Mrvan (D-IN-1) are leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Full text of the legislation can be found here. The Calumet Heritage Partnership and the Field Museum of Natural History support the effort to designate the Calumet Region as an NHA. Statements of Support: “The Field Museum supports the creation of the National Heritage Area and celebrates the people, places, and landscapes of the Calumet region,” said the Field Museum of Natural History. “The introduction of this bill is the culmination of years of tireless efforts by the Calumet Heritage Partnership, regional legislators, local communities, and various stakeholders committed to preserving the unique legacy of the Calumet region,” said Calumet Heritage Partnership Board Chair, Gary R. Johnson.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-senator-banks-on-fox-news-sunday/,ICYMI: Senator Banks on Fox News Sunday,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Fox News Sunday to discuss President Trump’s efforts to protect Americans from narco-terrorists and defeat ISIS in Syria. Click the image above for the full discussion Key Excerpts: ON RESPONDING TO ISIS ATTACK: Sen. Banks:“We saw the rise of ISIS around the world under the Biden years… I served in Afghanistan, and we saw ISIS-K rise in Afghanistan after the disastrous withdrawal by the Biden administration. Now we’re seeing it, again, rear its head in Syria and other places… there willbe hell to pay for those who are responsible for that attack on American troops.But Donald Trump rooted out and took out the ISIS caliphate in his first termwithout starting another forever war. He’s going to do that again. And I’m going to be there to back him up on the Armed Services Committee. This week we’re going topass the NDAA in the Senate. It passed out of the House last week. And it will goa long way to modernize and rebuild the military after it took a step backwardsunder the Biden.” ON DRUG BOAT STRIKES: Sen. Banks:“The fact of the matter is that the president is doing exactly what he was elected to do to take out and strike the narco-terrorists who are flooding drugs into this country. This oil tanker, for example, it was designated as an illegal activity by the Biden administration… President Trump is doing what he’s supposed to do as Commander -in -Chief to save American lives, our sons, our daughters, our neighbors, our family members who have been affected by drug overdoses and hold those who are responsible for it accountable. 71 % of Americans support what President Trump is doing on that front, and I stand with him, too.” ON REDISTRICTING: Sen. Banks:“I stood with the president to support redistricting. And the primaries in Indiana are in May. There will be a lot of primaries. Primaries are healthy. And I’ll just tell you this. Donald Trump remains the most popular Republican in the state of Indiana. I’ve seen all the polling, recent polling. You don’t want to be on the other side of Donald Trump. And I can tell you that from personal experience. He endorsed me when I ran for the Senate. He cleared the field. And I’m Senator today largely because of that endorsement. So those primaries will happen, but it’s not about Donald Trump. It’s about the country. It’s about keeping the Republican majority in the House of Representatives and addressing issues like health and saving this country from those who want to tear it down… I’m focused on fighting for Indiana and for our country. President Trump loves Indiana, Indiana loves President Trump. There were a small handful of Republican senators in the state senate who voted against him and they’ll have to face the voters in May and November we’ll see how it plays out.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-applauds-subcommittee-passage-three-kids-online-safety-bills,Houchin Applauds Subcommittee Passage of Three Kids’ Online Safety Bills,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced that three of her bipartisan bills protecting children online have passed out of the Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade (CMT) Subcommittee and will now advance to the full Energy & Commerce Committee for consideration. The AWARE Act, the SAFEBOTs Act, and the Parents Over Platforms Act represent major steps toward giving parents stronger tools, holding tech companies accountable, and ensuring kids are safe in an increasingly digital world. The AWARE Act directs the Federal Trade Commission to provide clear guidance to parents, educators, and minors on the risks associated with AI chatbot companions and how to identify red flags. The SAFEBOTs Act builds on that framework by requiring clear disclosure when minors interact with AI, establishing commonsense protections, and preventing harmful or deceptive content from reaching kids. The Parents Over Platforms Act, co-led with Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), closes the loopholes that let kids bypass age limits by making app stores and developers share responsibility for real age assurance and safer design. “Protecting kids online is one of the most urgent challenges we face in today’s digital age. These bills take on AI chatbot risks, strengthen transparency, and hold platforms accountable for whether children can access their apps. Parents and kids deserve an internet that puts their safety first. I’m grateful to my colleagues for passing these bills, and I look forward to moving them through the full Energy & Commerce Committee,” said Congresswoman Houchin. Together, these bills mark the most significant congressional effort to date to address the evolving dangers children face online. The legislation now heads to the full Energy & Commerce Committee for consideration.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-releases-statement-on-health-care-freedom-for-patients-act/,Senator Banks Releases Statement on Health Care Freedom for Patients Act,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) voted to bring the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act to the Senate floor. The motion failed to meet the three-fifths majority needed to pass. Notably, every Democrat voted no. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Today I voted in favor of advancing the Health Care Freedom for Patients Act, which would deliver relief directly to American families by putting money back in their pockets and expanding access to affordable plans. Democrats shot down this effort and voted instead to keep prices high with billions more in handouts to insurance companies. I urge them to come to the negotiating table so we can pass a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will actually lower costs.” Background: Under the “Affordable” Care Act, deductibles increased 43% over 10 years and the Democrats’ current plan would cost $335 billion over 10 years without solving the problem. The Health Care Freedom for Patients Act addresses those failures by sending premium subsidies directly to individuals instead of insurance companies. Eligible individuals ages 18-49 would receive $1,000 and ages 50-64 would receive $1,500 every year in Health Savings Accounts paired with more affordable plans. This legislation also lowers premiums for everyone and allows anyone to choose a low-cost catastrophic plan if it fits their needs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2515,Congressman Baird Statement on Passage of FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (NDAA): “I was proud to vote for the NDAA to enact President Trump’s successful peace through strength agenda by codifying 15 of President Trump’s executive orders to eliminate woke priorities, strengthen our national defense, and deter our adversaries. The NDAA also prioritizes biotechnology development and ensures our brave men and women in uniform have access to the most innovative technologies. As a combat veteran, I supported this bill to strengthen our national defense capabilities, support our military families, restore deterrence, and ensure our military is the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen.” Additional Background on the FY2026 NDAA: Provides enlisted servicemembers with a 4% pay raise. Expands our counter-drone defenses and new technologies. Codifies 15 of President Trump’s Executive Orders. Advances the Golden Dome and enhances America’s nuclear deterrent and new nuclear power technologies. Protects America’s long-term investments and economic interests. Fully supports the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops at the southwest border to intercept illegal aliens and drugs. Strengthens our defense industrial base and supply chains. Accelerates the development and delivery of space capabilities to counter Chinese and Russian nuclear arsenals and space surveillance. Streamlines operations by eliminating $20 billion in obsolete weapons, inefficient programs, and Pentagon bureaucracy. Eliminates Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs that discourage military readiness. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-applauds-house-passage-fy26-ndaa-secures-major-win-advanced-nuclear,"Houchin Applauds House Passage of FY26 NDAA, Secures Major Win for Advanced Nuclear Technology in National Defense",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) celebrated the House passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), landmark legislation that strengthens America’s national security, supports servicemembers, and advances Republicans’ peace-through-strength agenda. The NDAA authorizes $900.6 billion in national defense discretionary funding, including a 3.8% raise for all servicemembers, and makes generational investments to ensure the U.S. military remains the strongest fighting force in the world. The bill enhances readiness, accelerates innovation, reforms defense acquisition, revitalizes the defense industrial base, and improves the quality of life for servicemembers and their families. Congresswoman Houchin also secured a major legislative victory with the adoption of her amendment in the final package. Her measure prioritizes the deployment of advanced nuclear reactor technology at installations that support naval operations in the Mid-Atlantic region, helping strengthen America’s energy resilience and national security. “This year’s NDAA delivers on our commitment to restoring peace through strength and ensuring our servicemembers have every advantage to defend our nation. I’m especially proud that my amendment to prioritize advanced nuclear technology was included in the final bill. This will enable key naval-support installations, like NSC Crane, to participate in a pilot program to bring small modular nuclear reactors into the DOD footprint. It is a strategic win for America’s long-term security, our energy independence, and our military readiness. This is exactly the kind of innovation we need to stay ahead of our adversaries and protect our homeland,” said Congresswoman Houchin. The FY26 NDAA makes critical investments to: Streamline defense acquisition to get warfighters the tools they need, faster; Strengthen nuclear deterrence and missile defense systems; Strengthen border security through troop support and expanded counter-narcotics capabilities; Counter adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea; Expand U.S. production capacity and rebuild the defense industrial base; Support military families with improved pay, housing, education, and childcare. The NDAA now moves to the Senate as the legislative process continues.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=194,"Messmer Secures Big Wins for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, Supporting Local Defense Jobs and America’s National Security",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) released the following statement following the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of FY2026 in the House of Representatives: “The passage of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act is a major step forward for our country’s national security and a tribute to the dedicated men and women who support our Armed Forces and defend the United States of America. “This legislation fine-tunes our military readiness, bolsters our international alliances, and directs critical investments towards technologies like hpersonics that are important for America’s military lethality.“I chose to be a member of the House Armed Services Committee because of the national and local importance of Indiana’s Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center. The advanced research and development work being done at Crane in my district are changing battlefield realities while ensuring America’s warfighter has the most effective and modern equipment with which to protect our allies and defend our homeland. “I am proud to represent Hoosiers in IN-08 and all Americans with the passage of this important legislation.” PROVISIONS MESSMER SECURED IN THE BILL: Building the Southwest Indiana Defense Industrial Base ● Authorizes $12 million for the Quantum Communications Corridor to make Indiana a Midwest-based center for quantum technology. ● Grants needed resiliency reforms to the Industrial Base Fund (IDF) at the Department of War to address critical issues in the industrial base relating to urgent operational needs. ● Supports the Cyber-Physical Ranges stationed at the Fort Atterbury Muscatatuck Cyber Range to guarantee the great work done by our Indiana National Guard at Fort Atterbury. ● Authorizes $210 million in funding for the Nuclear-Armed Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SCLM-N). ● Authorizes an additional $10 million in testing and evaluation for reusable Hypersonic Test Beds that will support the Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB) program. ● Authorizes $208 million for the Crane Army Ammunition Plant for military construction to expand their Pyrotechnic Production Facility. ● Authorizes $160 million for Marine Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV) procurement, a key step in supporting our light tactical vehicle industrial workforce. ● Authorizes $10 million for Project Pele, accelerating the development of micronuclear reactors. ● Authorizes $512 million for Trusted and Assured Microelectronics in development and prototypes and another $143 million in system development and demonstration. Supporting Our Strategic Forces ● Supports the Space Development Agency by confirming the importance of their Middle Tier Acquisition, allowing the Space Development Agency to continue their work of rapidly fielding of satellites and other space-based systems. ● Ushering in a new era in hypersonics weapons development. ○ Authorizes $353 million in funds to procure a long-range hypersonic weapon. ○ Authorizes $9 million in funds for research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) for advanced materials and manufacturing for Hypersonics (AMMH). ● Continues support for President Trump’s Golden Dome for America Initiative. ○ The national missile defense policy has been changed to reflect the policy goals of the Golden Dome for America Initiative. ○ Establishes required quarterly briefings and an annual report to Congress concerning the development of the status of Golden Dome capabilities and architecture. ● Authorizes $798 million for the Conventual Prompt Strike (CPS) weapon system. To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting our warfighters, click here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/shreves-measures-included-ndaa-be-signed-law,Shreve’s Measures Included in NDAA To Be Signed Into Law,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) announced that measures he authored were included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026, which cleared the House, sending it to the U.S. Senate, and will be signed into law. Rep. Shreve voted in favor of the NDAA, which authorizes the budget and programs for the U.S. Department of Defense for FY2026. This year’s bill strengthens U.S. military readiness, secures made-in-America equipment, reduces dependence on China, and supports service members and their families. Congressman Shreve’s measures included in the NDAA: Protects the cybersecurity of America’s air, rail, and maritime systems by disincentivizing adversaries targeting critical infrastructure. Requires a report on joint U.S.–Mexico efforts to counter transnational criminal organizations. Authorizes the transfer of confiscated Iranian weapons to U.S. partners to bolster allied defenses. Other Shreve priorities advanced in the NDAA: Includes the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, strengthening border security, drug-interdiction efforts, and maritime safety. Increases basic and retired pay for service members. Expands investment in emerging technologies needed to deter the Chinese Communist Party. Authorizes renovations of military hospitals and new medical facilities. Saves taxpayers over $20 billion by cutting inefficient programs, federal bureaucracy, and DEI-related initiatives.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stutzman-introduces-regulation-improvement-act,REP. STUTZMAN INTRODUCES REGULATION A+ IMPROVEMENT ACT,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) introduced the Regulation A+ Improvement Act. The legislation will support the growth of small to mid-size businesses and expand investment opportunities for Americans across the country by increasing the offering limit for Regulation A Tier 2 offerings. These offerings provide a more accessible and cost-effective way for mid-sized and smaller companies to raise capital from a wider range of investors, with less government red tape and compliance costs. The bill doubles the offering limit of Reg A Tier 2 offerings from $75 million annually to $150 million annually and requires the offering limit to be adjusted every two years to the nearest $10,000 to reflect the changes in inflation. This adjustment will help more mid-size or smaller companies raise capital, create growth, jobs, and make important investments in research and development. Rep. Stutzman said the following about his legislation: ""Outdated limits on raising capital hinder the growth of mid-sized and small companies,” said Rep. Stutzman. “To increase competition and unleash economic growth, we must continue to provide pathways for companies to avoid the traditional, burdensome IPO process. My Regulation A+ Improvement Act will help more businesses in Indiana and across the country secure the critical investment they need to grow and thrive.” Key Background: Regulation A (Reg A) is an exemption from registration requirements under the Securities Act that applies to public offerings of securities. In 2015, with the enactment of the JOBS Act, Reg A was updated to allow companies to raise capital under two separate tiers of offerings. These two tiers of offerings, commonly referred to as Regulation A+ (Reg A+) include:",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/key-provision-to-ban-student-cell-phones-at-dodea-included-in-2026-national-defense-authorization-act/,Key Provision to Ban Student Cell Phones at DoDEA Included in 2026 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – On Sunday, the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act text was released and included a key provision introduced by Senator Banks—the Restoring our Educational Focus on Children of U.S. Servicemembers at DoDEA (REFOCUS DoDEA) Act. In June, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced theREFOCUS DoDEA Act. This legislation will help students at Department of Defense K-12 schools focus more on learning by banning student cellphones in the classroom. Notably, a Military Times survey found that over a third of servicemembers report dissatisfaction with their children’s education, making it a leading factor behind decisions to leave the military. This provision is part of Senator Banks’ broader efforts to strengthen educational opportunities for military families and improve retention. Senator Banks highlighted this issue at last weekend’s Reagan National Defense Forum (WATCH). Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “Cell phones don’t belong in the classroom, and students learn best when these distractions are removed. This provision will ensure DoDEA students are able to focus on what matters most: their education.” The Restoring our Educational Focus on Children of U.S. Servicemembers at DoDEA: Requires DoDEA to issue regulations prohibiting student cellphone use during the school day. Establishes appropriate exceptions, such as allowing for use in medical emergencies. Provides DoDEA with flexibility to choose how and where to store student cellphones. Full bill text can be found here. Background: The National Defense Authorization Act is U.S. federal law that authorizes annual funding for the Department of Defense and sets policies and priorities. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-urges-administration-to-continue-deportation-efforts-for-illegal-aliens/,Sen. Banks Urges Administration to Continue Deportation Efforts for Illegal Aliens,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem requesting an update on President Trump’s deportation efforts in Indiana. The letter cited recent traffic deaths and injuries allegedly caused by illegal aliens. In part, the letter reads: “These tragedies were entirely preventable. Every individual who crosses our borders illegally commits a crime. The vast majority of illegal aliens commit further crimes once they are in the United States. Most illegal aliens commit Social Security or document fraud; many steal government benefits, assault our citizens, and terrorize our communities. Many also unlawfully procure driver’s licenses and trucking licenses—or simply drive without them—resulting in fatal accidents. We must deport every one of them. The death of one American caused by an illegal alien is too many. President Biden and President Obama made every state, including Indiana, a border state. I applaud President Trump’s commitment to carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history, and I look forward to continuing to support your efforts in my great state. Hoosiers should not be forced to bear the consequences of open border policies any longer.” Click here to see the full letter or see text below: Read more about the bill here. Dear Secretary Noem: I write to request an update on President Trump’s efforts to deport illegal aliens in Indiana. In the last two months, four of my constituents have been killed in car crashes involving illegal aliens. At least eight more have been seriously injured. Five days before Thanksgiving, an elderly driver was killed in a hit-and-run caused by an illegal alien with a fraudulent green card. One day later, another illegal alien struck a husband and wife on their way to pick up their children from their grandparents’ house. This alien also did not have a driver’s license and was driving drunk. The husband and wife are both in critical condition. Those accidents took place less than a week after an illegal alien from the country of Georgia driving a semi-truck caused a collision that killed a member of the Indiana National Guard and left three more Guardsmen hospitalized. The alien who caused the crash was granted a trucking license by the state of New York even though he had unlawfully crossed the southern border. And in October, an illegal alien drove a semi-truck headfirst into a 54-year-old man in Northwest Indiana, killing him almost instantly. This driver was using a relative’s expired trucking license and had received tens of thousands of dollars in COVID-19 relief loans. The Hoosiers harmed in these accidents are not the first whose lives have been jeopardized by mass migration. The Department of Homeland Security just spotlighted over one hundred criminal aliens arrested in Indiana, and those are just the “worst of the worst.” These tragedies were entirely preventable. Every individual who crosses our borders illegally commits a crime. The vast majority of illegal aliens commit further crimes once they are in the United States. Most illegal aliens commit Social Security or document fraud; many steal government benefits, assault our citizens, and terrorize our communities. Many also unlawfully procure driver’s licenses and trucking licenses—or simply drive without them—resulting in fatal accidents. We must deport every one of them. The death of one American caused by an illegal alien is too many. President Biden and President Obama made every state, including Indiana, a border state. I applaud President Trump’s commitment to carrying out the largest deportation operation in American history, and I look forward to continuing to support your efforts in my great state. Hoosiers should not be forced to bear the consequences of open border policies any longer. Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your efforts to make America—and Indiana—safe again. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-cortez-masto-introduce-legislation-to-spur-small-business-innovation/,"Young, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation to Spur Small Business Innovation",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced legislation to ensure America’s small businesses can compete in the 21st century economy. The Small Business Innovation Voucher Act would create a voucher program at the Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide grants for small businesses to partner with higher education institutions to conduct research and development. “Our Small Business Innovation Voucher program will build on Indiana’s existing voucher program to facilitate public-private partnerships between small businesses and our world-renowned research institutions. Giving Hoosier entrepreneurs expanded access to world-class lab space and scientists will help drive innovation and enhance economic opportunity across Indiana,” said Senator Young. “Nevada’s entrepreneurs are at the forefront of job creation and economic growth in the Silver State,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Unfortunately, not every small business owner has the tools and resources to turn a great idea into a technological innovation. This bipartisan legislation would match trailblazing Nevadans with the cutting-edge laboratories and academic expertise our universities are known for.” The Small Business Innovation Voucher Act would allow small businesses to work with any institution of higher education to compete for grants to facilitate cooperation on research and development and commercialization of new technologies. Specifically, the bill would: Provide grants of between $15,000 and $75,000 for projects with a high likelihood of creating a novel technology or that would not be completed without the grant money; Require reports from the grant recipients on use of funds and reports to Congress from the SBA on program effectiveness; and Authorize $10 million per year for the voucher program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-hassan-reintroduce-bill-to-reduce-college-costs-and-increase-college-completion-rates/,"Young, Hassan Reintroduce Bill to Reduce College Costs and Increase College Completion Rates",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) reintroduced the Fast Track To and Through College Act, which would create a federal grant program to help states expand opportunities for high school students to begin earning college credits, including through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and dual-enrollment courses. The program would also require public colleges and universities to accept the credits, making the transfer process more seamless, saving students money and time. “Early college programs provide students with affordable opportunities to prepare for postsecondary education,” said Senator Young. “Our bill would help create a pathway for more high school students to earn college credits, including providing access to advanced coursework, dual credits, and professional support.” “In New Hampshire and across the country, many high school students are ready for college-level coursework that will help them develop the skills to be successful in the workforce and life,” said Senator Hassan. “The bipartisan Fast Track To and Through College Act will allow more students to earn college credits while in high school, helping families save money, making college both more accessible and affordable. Young people in our country are looking for pathways to opportunity that won’t saddle them with debt as they face a rapidly changing economy. I encourage my colleagues to join me in lowering college costs and increasing opportunities that help students thrive.” The Fast Track To and Through College Act is supported by AASA, The School Superintendents Association, Advance CTE, All4Ed, Association for Career and Technical Education, Bard Early Colleges, Center for Higher Education Policy and Practice at SNHU, Complete College America, Education Reform Now, Empower Schools, Jobs for the Future, KnowledgeWorks, Linked Learning Alliance, Massachusetts Alliance for Early College, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Urban League, New Hampshire Learning Initiative, Michigan Association for Computers in Learning, and Third Way.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2514,Congressman Baird Statement on Trump Administration’s Farmer Bridge Assistance Program,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after President Trump announced the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, an economic assistance package for American farmers: “President Trump and his administration have made it clear that they will put American farmers first. Previously, our farmers and producers were struggling under unfair trade practices and rising input costs as a result of Biden’s inflationary agenda. This historic investment will provide much-needed economic relief until farmers can benefit from the upcoming increase in reference prices passed in the Working Families Tax Cuts. I was proud to see that one of my constituents, Tyler Everett of Everett Family Farms, joined President Trump, Secretary Rollins, and Secretary Bessent for this historic announcement that will help fix our great ag economy. I thank the president, Secretary Rollins, and Secretary Bessent for their continued efforts to ensure our farmers thrive and to create a more level playing field on the world stage."" More information on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farmer Bridge Assistance Program can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/indiana-national-guard-arrives-in-washington-d-c-in-support-of-president-trumps-make-america-safe-again-mission/,"Indiana National Guard Arrives in Washington, D.C., in Support of President Trump’s “Make America Safe Again” Mission",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – On Saturday, approximately 300 Indiana National Guard soldiers arrived inWashington, D.C., to support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful mission as part of President Trump’s “Make America Safe Again” agenda. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I’m grateful to our Indiana National Guardsmen for helping keep our nation’s capital safe. With so many Indiana families visiting D.C. in the spring, their service helps ensure visitors can see our monuments and history safely. They truly represent the best of our state.” Background: The Indiana National Guardsmen will assist local and federal law enforcement partners to help deter crime and maintain public order. Soldiers have trained at Camp Atterbury to prepare for the mission since mid-November. As the mission evolves, they will continue training alongside Joint Task Force–District of Columbia. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-american-leadership-in-digital-trade/,"Young, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Strengthen American Leadership in Digital Trade",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) led U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Michael Bennet (D-Co.) in introducing the Digital Trade Promotion Act, legislation to strengthen America’s global leadership in digital trade. From the buying and selling of goods in online marketplaces to the digital services that enable smart manufacturing and modern agricultural practices, digital trade has quickly become a driving force in our everyday economy. While the United States has historically led the development of rules and standards for digital trade, other countries, including foreign adversaries and even some allies, are advancing their own digital trade policies that would undermine American businesses and workers. The Digital Trade Promotion Act would empower the president to negotiate and enforce digital trade agreements with trusted partners and allies, thereby bolstering opportunities for businesses and workers, strengthening our economic security, and ensuring that American values power the digital world. “China and other strategic competitors are pushing digital regimes that create new barriers and tilt the field against U.S. companies and workers. To ensure American workers, businesses, and consumers can succeed in the digital age, we must cement U.S. leadership in the global digital economy,” said Senator Young. “Negotiating more digital trade agreements with partners and allies will strengthen our economic security, spur more opportunities for Hoosiers, and secure America’s competitive edge.” “From farmers in Sussex to fintech startups in New Castle County, digital tools help every entrepreneur compete around the world. I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Digital Trade Promotion Act to help businesses big and small compete on a level playing field and ensure the global rules of the road are rooted in American values of openness, transparency, and fairness,” said Senator Coons. “Advancing the digital trade of goods and services positively impacts everyone across our state – from farmers and manufacturers to small businesses and consumers,” said Senator Moran. “This legislation allows for greater executive authority to promote trade deals involving digital products and services, reducing digital trade barriers while allowing Congress to exercise necessary oversight of any agreement in order to make certain the American people are prioritized.” “The United States’ digital sector is the envy of the world, but we cannot allow China to write the rules of the road for the next generation of emerging technology,” said Senator Bennet. “This legislation will ensure the U.S. can work closely with our allies and partners to establish a strong international framework for innovation and consumer protection in the digital age.” The Digital Trade Promotion Act is endorsed by the Computer and Communications Industry Association. “The Digital Trade Promotion Act provides the institutional mechanisms needed to reassert U.S. digital leadership in ways that prioritize American innovation. It ensures a modernized statutory framework for U.S. leadership in digital trade by emphasizing Administrative flexibility to effectively negotiate fair trade, while preserving Congress’ meaningful control over binding trade commitments,” said CCIA Vice President for Federal Affairs Brian McMillan. More specifically, the Digital Trade Promotion Act would: Reaffirm that digital trade is critical to U.S. growth, jobs, competitiveness, and leadership, and that the United States should lead in setting high-standard rules with like-minded partners. Authorize the president, through the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), to negotiate, enter, and enforce digital trade agreements with trusted partners that meet specified rule-of-law, openness, and intellectual property protections. Require that any digital trade agreement cover all sectors and include key negotiating priorities: nondiscrimination for digital goods and services, bans on discriminatory digital taxes and data localization, free cross-border data flows, strong protections for source code and algorithms, interoperable privacy and consumer protections, AI and emerging-tech cooperation, cybersecurity cooperation, and support for open, voluntary international standards. Establish congressional oversight with advance notice, consultation during negotiations, a pre-signing report, and a defined review window in which Congress can block an agreement. Direct USTR to monitor partner compliance on an ongoing basis and gives the President tools to respond to violations, including suspending or withdrawing agreement benefits, negotiating corrective and compensatory arrangements, or taking other actions to push partners back into compliance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kaine-applaud-inclusion-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-in-fy26-ndaa/,"Young, Kaine Applaud Inclusion of Bipartisan Legislation to Formally End Iraq Wars in FY26 NDAA",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) applauded the inclusion of their bipartisan bill to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq in the final conferenced version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate and House voted to include Young and Kaine’s legislation as amendments to the FY26 NDAA. “I’ve been pushing for years to repeal these outdated AUMFs, and I am pleased that they are included in the final NDAA,” said Senator Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all. Thank you to my colleagues and President Trump for ensuring this important provision remained in the final bill.” “It has been more than half a century since the United States repealed a war authorization and formally ended an armed conflict. After years of hard work alongside colleagues on both sides of the aisle, advocates, veterans, and military families, I’m glad that we are one step closer to finally repealing the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq,” said Senator Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “When President Trump signs this legislation into law, it will be a historic victory for our country and for the American people who want to finally close the book on this endless war.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-supports-back-the-blue-act/,Young Supports Back the Blue Act,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined 35 Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Back the Blue Act, legislation that would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers and provide new tools for officers to protect themselves. “Our law enforcement officers risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe,” said Senator Young. “The Back the Blue Act makes clear that attacks on our officers will not be tolerated and provides stronger protections for law enforcement. I’m proud to support this bill and back the blue.” In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Marsha Blackburn, (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelly Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) also introduced the legislation. Background: The Back the Blue Act would: Create a new federal crime for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to the death penalty and a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years if death results; the offender would otherwise face a minimum sentence of 10 years. Create a new federal crime for assaulting a federally funded law enforcement officer with escalating penalties, including mandatory minimums, based on the extent of any injury and the use of a dangerous weapon. However, no prosecution can be commenced absent certification by the Attorney General that prosecution is appropriate. Create a new federal crime for interstate flight from justice to avoid prosecution for killing, attempting to kill, or conspiring to kill a federal judge, federal law enforcement officer, or federally funded public safety officer. The offender would be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for this offense. Clarify that the murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer or first responder is a statutory aggravating factor for purposes of the federal death penalty. Impose time limits and substantive limits on federal courts’ review of challenges to state-court convictions for crimes involving the murder of a public safety officer, when the public safety officer was engaged in the performance of official duties or on account of the performance of official duties. These changes are consistent with the fast-track procedures created in 1996, which are applied to federal death penalty cases. Limit the type of civil damages and attorney’s fees recoverable by a criminal as a result of purported injuries incurred during the commission of a felony or crime of violence. Allow law enforcement officers, subject to limited regulation, to carry firearms into federal facilities and other jurisdictions where such possession is otherwise prohibited. This legislation is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-announces-his-2025-service-academy-nominees,Congressman Shreve Announces His 2025 Service Academy Nominees,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) has announced the nomination of 19 high school students from across Indiana’s 6th District to the United States Service Academies. Mr. Shreve said, “Nominating young men and women to our nation’s service academies is a privilege and a happy responsibility. I and my Service Academy Nominations Board have identified exceptional young Hoosiers with bright futures ahead. I’m honored to play a part in helping them take this step toward serving our country.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-urge-review-of-failed-biden-administration-vetting-process-for-afghan-nationals/,"Young, Colleagues Urge Review of Failed Biden Administration Vetting Process for Afghan Nationals",2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, joined Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and other Committee members in sending a letter to National Security Advisor Marco Rubio urging a review of the Biden Administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals. Despite assurances to the contrary, the Biden Administration’s failed vetting process following the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal resulted in security risks to American servicemembers and citizens. In part, the Senators wrote: “The horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C. the past week that resulted in the shooting of two brave National Guard members demonstrates that it is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens.” Full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Secretary Rubio: The horrific terror attack in Washington, D.C. the past week that resulted in the shooting of two brave National Guard members demonstrates that it is past time for the United States to revisit the deficiencies of the Biden administration’s vetting process for Afghan nationals and remedy the resulting egregious security threats such a process created in the United States after the disastrous August 2021 withdrawal. We urge you to take immediate action to prevent future attacks on American servicemen and citizens. Contrary to the previous administration’s assertion that all Afghan nationals were subject to “enhanced vetting,” repeated reports by various Offices of Inspectors General (OIGs) presented to Congress reveal a different story. A February 2022 Department of War (DoW) OIG report found that Operation Allies Refuge and Operation Allies Welcome did not use all available DoW data to vet Afghan evacuees, including the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS). This database, compiled over the past 20 years, contains tactical data collected on the battlefield in Afghanistan. After an initial review of Afghan Evacuee data with the ABIS database, the National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) found that at least 50 individuals had “potentially significant security concerns.” These range from the benign, such as a petty theft from a military base, to the serious, such as fingerprints found on improvised explosive devices. A September 2022 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) OIG report agreed with the DoW report and further found that approximately 31,000 Afghan evacuees were allowed into the country before DHS could form a taskforce to vet and support their resettlement. Congress is further aware of potentially hundreds of evacuees that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has found to have potential links to terrorism after their arrival in the United States. Repeated requests from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence to multiple agencies during the previous administration, including DoW, the National Counterterrorism Center, NGIC, the Defense Intelligence Agency, and FBI for more information about these individuals and what risks – if any – their presence inside this country poses to public security have gone largely unanswered. Four years after the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, it is still unclear to what extent the Intelligence Community (IC) or law enforcement authorities are monitoring or tracking these individuals. Therefore, we respectfully request that you instruct DHS, DoW, and the IC to: Implement the vetting procedures recommended by the 2022 DoW OIG report in their entirety for all Afghan evacuees currently in the United States; Identify and locate those evacuees discovered to have significant security concerns; and Seek immediate removal of such evacuees from the United States back to Afghanistan or other third countries, as appropriate. Thank you for your prompt attention to this request, and we look forward to your response.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2512,Congressman Baird Applauds Trump Administration’s Proposed Fuel Economy Standards,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) unveiled its ""Freedom Means Affordable Cars"" proposal to reset the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards. “The Biden Administration manipulated fuel economy standards to impose a de facto electric vehicle mandate,” said Congressman Baird. “These Biden-era CAFE standards were a financial disaster for our great American automakers and consumers, skewing the market in favor of electric vehicles that Americans simply did not want. I am pleased to see President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy continue their historic deregulation efforts by reversing these overburdensome, unrealistic regulations. The NHTSA’s proposal is a great victory for automakers and consumer choice and will make vehicle ownership more affordable for every American.” Background: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) oversees the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards program, which regulates how far a vehicle must travel on a gallon of fuel. The NHTSA is required to set CAFE standards to a maximum feasible level. The Biden Administration’s CAFE standards mandated a 2% increase in fuel efficiency for model years 2027-2031 for passenger cars, and a 2% increase per year for light trucks for model years 2029-2031 to bring the average light-duty vehicle fuel economy up to approximately 50.4 miles per gallon by model year 2031. The Trump Administration’s “Freedom Means Affordable Cars” proposal resets CAFE standards for model years 2022-2031. NHTSA’s proposal increases the fuel economy standard by 0.5% per year for passenger cars from model years 2023 through 2026, followed by 0.35% in model year 2027, and 0.25% from model year 2029 to 2031. For light trucks, NHTSA is proposing an increase of 0.5% for model year 2023 through 2026, followed by 0.7% in model year 2027, and 0.25% from model year 2029 to 2031. This proposal would achieve a fleet average fuel economy of 34.5 miles per gallon by model year 2031, a far more realistic goal. Freedom Means Affordable Cars is also projected to save the American people $109 billion over the next five years and save families $1,000 on the average cost of a new vehicle. More information on the proposal can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-highlights-legislative-push-protect-children-online-ec-subcommittee,Houchin Highlights Legislative Push to Protect Children Online as E&C Subcommittee Holds Hearing,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade held a legislative hearing on protecting children and teens online, featuring several bills led or co-led by Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09). These proposals work together to give parents stronger tools, hold platforms accountable, and create safeguards for kids in the digital age. “Kids are growing up in an online world that is changing faster than any parent can keep up with,” said Rep. Houchin. These bills all share one goal—putting families back in control. Whether we’re addressing AI chatbots, addictive algorithms, or better age protections, this is about putting the wellbeing of kids first.” The hearing considered 19 bills, including the following: • H.R.5360 The AWARE Act – the first House bill to address AI chatbot companions, directing the FTC to provide parents, educators, and kids with clear guidance on how these bots work, the risks they pose, and how to stay safe. • The SAFE BOTs Act – a follow-up to AWARE that prohibits chatbots from impersonating licensed professionals and requires clear disclosure when a child is interacting with AI, while setting baseline protections such as break prompts and crisis information. • The RESET Act – legislation that requires platforms to default minors into safer settings, limit addictive and harmful algorithmic content, and give parents stronger oversight tools. • The Parents Over Platforms Act (co-led with Rep. Jake Auchincloss) – a bipartisan bill closing the loophole that allows kids to bypass age limits by requiring app stores and developers to share responsibility for age assurance and blocking high-risk content for minors. The hearing marks a key step forward as Congress considers comprehensive reforms to address risks posed by social media platforms, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-lifts-hold-on-air-force-colonel-sebren/,Senator Banks Lifts Hold on Air Force Colonel Sebren,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) lifted a hold on the promotion of United States Air Force Colonel George H. Sebren after Col. Sebren committed to restoring merit-based promotions and abandoning the woke policies that were disastrous for our military under the Biden administration. Senator Banks placed a hold on his promotion in July due to Col. Sebren’s previous support for military promotions based on race and gender. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “After speaking with Under Secretary of the Air Force Matthew Lohmeier and hearing directly from Colonel Sebren, I’m confident he understands the urgency of restoring merit and excellence in our armed forces. I’m grateful for his service and encouraged to see military leaders standing up against the divisive, woke politics that weakened the Pentagon under Joe Biden.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=193,Messmer Introduces the Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) introduced the Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act. This pro-life legislation establishes federal penalties for the intentional administration of any abortion-inducing drug to a woman without her informed consent. “I am against abortion in most cases, but it is unconscionable to even consider tricking a woman into killing her unborn baby,” said Rep. Messmer. “The federal government must unequivocally declare that underhandedly administering an abortion-inducing drug is murder and will not be tolerated. Those shameful perpetrators must face the full force of the law!” BACKGROUND: The Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act establishes federal penalties for the intentional administration of abortion-inducing drugs without a woman’s informed consent. If the non-consensual administration results in serious bodily injury, the offender will face enhanced dual penalties. The bill also penalizes those who attempt or conspire to commit the offense. Penalties apply to anyone who sells, ships, mails, or gives abortion-inducing drugs without taking reasonable measures to verify the recipient is a pregnant woman seeking an abortion. To read the full text of the bill, click here. To read more about how Rep. Messmer is fighting for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District in the House of Representatives, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-designates-december-4-national-scam-prevention-day,Congressman Shreve Designates December 4 as “National Scam Prevention Day”,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Mr. Shreve has made stopping foreign scams a central focus of his work in Congress. He launched the bipartisan STOP Scams Caucus, pressed the State Department through a letter to Secretary Marco Rubio, advanced legislation targeting international scam syndicates, and created the first federal interagency task force dedicated to dismantling them. This week, Rep. Shreve joined public and private-sector leaders at the Global Anti-Scam Summit in Washington. He participated in a panel with his caucus co-chair, wherein they outlined progress in Congress to better protect Americans.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-the-ai-workforce-prepare-act/,Senator Banks Introduces the AI Workforce PREPARE Act,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the AI Workforce PREPARE Act, which enhances federal agencies’ ability to assess AI’s impact on the workforce and makes education and job training programs more effective. The bill will help prepare the American worker to win in the AI economy. Original cosponsors of the bill include Senators Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Jon Husted (R-Ohio). Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “We have to understand how AI is changing the workforce so we can equip American workers with the skills necessary to stay ahead of China and lead the world.” Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.): “American workers cannot be left behind as American corporations continue to push forward with the development and adoption of artificial intelligence. This bipartisan legislation helps the federal government better assess the ways in which artificial intelligence is changing our economy and helps ensure that increased automation does not result in fewer jobs for hard-working American families.” Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.): “We can’t sit in the backseat while AI transforms our workforce. Workers, employers, and educators need a roadmap to understand these new directions. Our bipartisan bill will help deliver that map so that we can leverage AI and make sure American workers lead the way.” Senator Jon Husted (R-Ohio): “There is no question that AI will significantly transform the way we work in the coming years, and it’s important that we have the facts on how our workforce will be impacted and evolve. America must lead and win the global innovation race, and this bill ensures our workforce not only avoids being left behind, but is prepared to lead the way in developing and using new technology.” Americans for Responsible Innovation President Brad Carson: “Our workforce is potentially facing a large-scale disruption as AI is integrated in our economy. In order to respond effectively with programs that support workers during an era of unprecedented automation, we need better data. Policymakers need to know what jobs are being eliminated, what new work is being created, and how we can train a workforce prepared for the future. The AI Workforce PREPARE Act gets right to the heart of that issue by supporting high-quality economic data collection, analysis, and forecasting on AI’s impact.” Key Provisions of the AI Workforce PREPARE Act: Create an AI Workforce Research Hub to help implement the White House’s AI Action Plan. Solicit ideas from the public and convene researchers, technical experts, business, and labor to improve data collection on AI and the workforce. Enhance the Labor Department’s authorities to hire a core group of AI experts. Carry out a pilot project to produce statistics on workers’ job changes as they are affected by AI Increase researchers’ access to the federal government’s workforce data. Conduct prize competitions to better understand AI adoption, job impacts, and how AI systems augment or automate tasks in particular occupations. Facilitate voluntary public-private partnerships to share anonymized data on how users are adopting AI. Improve AI-related questions in federal surveys. Update the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notice (WARN) Act to provide basic information to employees if AI is a substantial factor in a layoff. Improve the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ occupational projections. Produce a report on how better AI forecasts can be incorporated into grantmaking decisions. Conduct a study on how to design more effective rapid retraining programs to assist workers displaced by AI. Use AI-informed projections to update states’ in-demand occupation lists, which are used to allocate training funding. Encourage federal agencies, states, local governments, and businesses to collect and report labor market data in more consistent ways. Apply existing privacy protections and accessibility requirements to all data collected and exchanged. Full text of the bill can be found here. Background: According to KPMG, 66% of people already use AI in some way, and according to the IMF, 40% of jobs already incorporate or are affected by AI. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-on-fox-and-friends-president-trump-is-first-potus-in-40-years-serious-about-fighting-war-on-drugs/,Senator Banks on Fox and Friends: “President Trump is First POTUS in 40 Years Serious About Fighting War on Drugs”,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined Fox & Friends to discuss the recent Washington, D.C. shooting of two National Guardsmen by an Afghan national, and President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s efforts to protect Americans from narco-terrorists. Click the image above for the full discussion Key Excerpts: Sen. Banks on Vetting Afghanistan Nationals: “When Biden pulled out of Afghanistan disastrously, what happened there was a shameful moment in American history on Joe Biden’s watch… Even worse now is finding out that Joe Biden and his administration allowed terrorists to come into our country. Three notable arrests, including the tragic killing terrorist act in Washington, D.C. a week ago. I think we’re going to find out, sadly, a lot more cases, a lot more ties to ISIS -K and terrorist groups abroad, all on Joe Biden’s watch… the blame falls at his feet for what he allowed to happen.” *** “President Trump is serious about vetting these Afghan nationals. Tens of thousands of them we don’t even know their first names, their last names, their birth dates. They were never properly vetted in the first place. And now it’s time to make up for that mistake. And that’s what President Trump is doing.” Sen. Banks on Secretary Hegseth’s Narco-terrorist Strikes: “We want to learn the truth. And the more that we learn the truth, the more we realize that President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth are doing exactly what the American people elected them to do. And that’s to protect America from narco-terrorists who are flooding our country with poisonous drugs. Over 70 % of Americans support President Trump striking these drug boats… Admiral Bradley did exactly what he was supposed to do to prevent these drug coming into our country. This was an active operation.” *** “The fact of the matter is under Joe Biden, the open borders, the poisonous drugs flowing into our country killed over 100,000 Americans a year that’s more every year than who, than those Americans who died in the war in Vietnam. And now President Trump is the first president that we’ve had in 40 years, who’s been serious about fighting the war on drugs, and he’s taking on the drug cartels exactly as we expect him to do. So the truth confirms that President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are executing the operation exactly as the American people elected them and expect them to do.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-on-the-will-cain-show-americans-support-president-trumps-strikes-on-drug-boats/,Senator Banks on The Will Cain Show: Americans Support President Trump’s Strikes on Drug Boats,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) joined The Will Cain Show to President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s efforts to protect Americans from narco-terrorists. Click the image above for the full discussion Key Excerpts: Sen. Banks on Secretary Hegseth’s Narco-terrorist Strikes: “President Trump is doing exactly what the American people elected him to do. He’s secured the border and now he’s keeping us safe and stopping this poison from flooding into our country. He’s the first president in my life who’s been serious about the war on drugs, declaring war on the cartels. And Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is doing a great job, an exceptional job of executing President Trump’s strategy to do that… 71 % of Americans support President Trump and what he’s doing to strike these drug boats and stopping poison from coming into our country. And that’s what makes the Democrat position so ridiculous.” *** “The American people are on the president’s side. They’re on Pete Hegseth’s side to stop the drugs and the poison from coming into our country… Tom Cotton, the chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, came out of that briefing today and said it was all justified. The attacks on these narco-terrorists was justified then… It’s been justified every day since. And I hope President Trump and Secretary Hegseth keep up the good work and keep doing what they’re doing to save the lives of so many American people. Under Joe Biden, we had hundreds of thousands of Americans who died of drug poisonings because of drugs flowing into our country. And Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth said, they’re putting a stop to it.” *** “… The President of the United States, the Commander-in-Chief has Article II powers to protect the homeland, to keep America safe, and to stop the poison from coming into this country. He’s entirely justified already… President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are doing exactly what the American people gave the President a mandate last November to do, and they’re doing it in a very effective way… We’re already seeing the number of drug overdoses in America decline.. And that number is going to keep going down because of these strikes on drug boats and the activities of this military and the Department of War going after these narco-terrorists. I’m very proud of what they’re doing, and again, I hope they keep it up… I’m going to back him up in every way that I can.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-recognizes-students-who-completed-fall-internship-in-indiana-and-washington/,Young Recognizes Students Who Completed Fall Internship in Indiana and Washington,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) recognized students who participated in the fall session of his internship program in his Washington, D.C., Indianapolis, and New Albany offices. The students assisted with daily activities and special projects related to legislation, communications, and constituent services. The Washington, D.C. internship class included (from left to right): Erik McCray, a recent Indiana University Bloomington graduate; Jorie Allen, a Bedford native and recent DePaul University graduate; Collin Monesmith, an Indianapolis native graduating from Indiana University Bloomington in December 2025; and Josie O’Rourke, a student at the University of Denver. The Indianapolis internship class included (from left to right): Maria Abdelmalek, a Carmel native and junior at Butler University; Ryan Riddlesperger, a senior at Purdue University; Charles Alderice, a Fort Wayne native and senior at Purdue University; and Ashlyn Moritz, a Westfield native and recent Bob Jones University graduate. The New Albany internship class included Sam Goldman Brown, a Georgetown native and student at Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg. Senator Young’s office offers internship opportunities year-round, in both his Washington, D.C. and Indianapolis offices. The internship program offers students the opportunity to experience the legislative branch of government and serve Hoosiers. Students interested in applying can visit Senator Young’s internship webpage or call 202-224-5623 to learn more. Senator Young released a video to provide more information about the internship program. ***Full resolution photos available upon request.***",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/holiday-scams-ramp-shreve-advances-his-scam-taskforce-bill-house-floor,"As Holiday Scams Ramp Up, Shreve Advances His Scam Taskforce Bill to the House Floor",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — With holiday scams surging, Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) announced that his standalone Dismantle Foreign Scam Syndicates Act has passed out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee today and is headed to the House Floor. This marks the latest push in Rep. Shreve’s broader effort to crack down on international scam networks that are stealing billions from Americans — often targeting seniors and vulnerable families. Provisions of the bill have already moved through committee once this year, underscoring the sustained, bipartisan commitment to tackling this growing threat. Mr. Shreve has made protecting Americans from foreign scam syndicates a top priority in Congress. He launched the bipartisan STOP Scams Caucus, led a letter to Secretary of State Marc Rubio calling for stronger federal coordination, and introduced multiple measures aimed at shutting down overseas operations that prey on U.S. citizens. The Dismantle Foreign Scam Syndicates Act establishes a first-of-its-kind interagency task force — led by the State Department — to disrupt and dismantle large-scale foreign scam operations. The task force will align federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to pursue the criminal networks behind these schemes. “As scams grow more sophisticated, our response has to keep pace,” Shreve said. “This bill pulls together the right federal tools and agencies to go after the criminals overseas who target Americans every day.” The legislation now moves to the full House for consideration.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-booker-introduce-bill-to-help-american-workers-families-build-emergency-savings/,"Young, Booker Introduce Bill to Help American Workers, Families Build Emergency Savings",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act, legislation to help American workers and families save for unexpected expenses without having to tap into their retirement accounts. “As a father of four, I understand the impact that unexpected expenses can have on a family budget. Our bill will provide workers and families with additional options to build savings for unexpected expenses, without tapping into retirement savings. If passed, our bill will support Indiana families and build financial security for working Hoosiers,” said Senator Young. “For millions of working families, an unexpected expense can quickly push them into financial turmoil—even more so as families face rising costs of rent, groceries, and other essentials,” said Senator Booker. “In 2022, Senator Young and I passed legislation to create emergency savings accounts to help families weather these storms while also saving for their retirement. Today, we are introducing a proposal building on that progress, enhancing emergency savings accounts to help strengthen workers’ financial stability and support their path to a secure retirement.” The Emergency Savings Enhancement Act would modify pension-linked emergency savings accounts (PLESAs) by: Increasing the maximum contribution limit from $2,500 to $5,000 to allow for greater emergency savings. Expanding eligibility to include all employees who otherwise meet a retirement plan’s general requirements, eliminating the administrative burden of continuously monitoring eligibility requirements. The Emergency Savings Enhancement Act is supported by the following organizations: BPC Action, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Taxpayers Union, Alight, Aspen Institute, Commonwealth, Financial Finesse, Progressive Policy Institute, Prosperity Now, SaverLife, Sunny Day Fund, Third Way, T. Rowe Price, UnidosUS, Vestwell, Voya, and WISER. “Too many working Americans are one emergency expense away from financial hardship,” said Michele Stockwell, President of BPC Action. “This commonsense bill, led by Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Reps. Eugene Vindman (D-VA) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), tackles that problem by making it easier for employers to help their workers automatically save for an emergency, alongside their retirement accounts. By passing the Emergency Savings Enhancement Act of 2025, Congress can build on the progress of the bipartisan SECURE 2.0 Act and strengthen middle class financial security.” The full bill text can be found here. A summary of the bill can be found here. U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15) are leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-leads-delegation-letter-of-support-for-indiana-drone-test-site-application/,Young Leads Delegation Letter of Support for Indiana Drone Test Site Application,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) led a letter in support of the application submitted by Hoosier stakeholders for Indiana to be a recipient of one of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Test Site designations. This letter was signed by the entire Indiana congressional delegation. “Indiana is uniquely situated to best assist the FAA in integrating UAS into the national airspace system as well as advance the United States’ capacities for manufacturing and deploying drone technologies. Between the geographical location in the heart of the Midwest, the already numerous testing assets for a variety of missions, and state and federal representatives who are committed to supporting advancement of these critical technologies, our state is poised to provide the best outcomes for American leadership in drone manufacturing and deployment,” the Indiana congressional delegation wrote in its support letter. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 authorized the FAA to establish two additional test sites to its existing UAS Test Site program. If selected as one of the new test sites, Indiana would play a critical role in reestablishing U.S. drone dominance, and it would open doors for Hoosier universities, state and federal government entities, and manufacturers to collaborate on new drone technologies. The test site would also complement the executive order on drones signed by Indiana Governor Mike Braun in October that Senator Young helped develop. The full delegation support letter is available here. In addition to Senator Young, the letter was signed by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Representatives Frank Mrvan (D-IN-01), Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN-03), Jim Baird (R-IN-04), Victoria Spartz (R-IN-05), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN-06), Andre Carson (D-IN-07), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), and Erin Houchin (R-IN-09).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-young-announces-nominees-for-united-states-service-academies-7/,Senator Young Announces Nominees for United States Service Academies,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) announced his nominations for U.S. service academy appointments. Applications were received from 150 Hoosier students, and a select group of students was interviewed by an advisory board that was chosen by Senator Young. Out of 80 offered interviews, 44 exemplary young men and women from across Indiana received a nomination to at least one service academy from Senator Young. A nomination does not guarantee admission to a service academy, but is required in order to be considered. Nominees are chosen based on personal merit. Criteria considered include evidence of character, leadership, academic excellence, physical aptitude, and extracurricular activities. “This year, I had the privilege of recommending a talented group of 44 Hoosiers for admission to the United States service academies,” said Senator Young.“These young men and women are highly qualified to serve our country, and I’m very proud of their hard work. I wish them the best of luck in their application process.” Senator Young’s service academy nominees are listed below: United States Air Force Academy Caroline Crews Roncalli High School *Also nominated to the United States Military Academy Isaac Going Columbus East High School *Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy Allison Heine Homestead High School *Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy Roman Heller Center Grove High School *Also nominated to the United States Military Academy Daniel Larsen Zionsville Community High School Noah Lorincz Westfield High School Jacen Madeira Bloomington High School North *Also nominated to the United States Military Academy Daniel Michael Cathedral High School *Also nominated to the United States Military Academy Cameron Reddick Lake Central High School Jonathan Schumann Zionsville Community High School Marshall Snyder Heritage Hills High School Michael Solymosi John Glenn High School Diego Stanis Farias Avon High School *Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy Jacob Trueblood Taylor High School Taylor Zhang Carmel High School *Also nominated to the United States Military Academy United States Merchant Marine Academy Brennan Baker Hamilton Southeastern High School Lydia Korzekwa Lawrence North High School Jacob Kyle Penn High School Hayden Oberlin Concordia Lutheran High School Ethan Podlesak Plymouth High School Bobby Scott Crown Point High School Parker St. John Roncalli High School Dalton Strange Loogootee High School Christian Touzard Academia Interamericana de Panamá United States Military Academy Owen Buccellato Trinity Academy South Bend Tobin Busch La Lumiere School Caleb Haney Westfield High School Talon Jessup Columbus East High School Bentley Jones Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory High School Quentin Klee Guerin Catholic High School *Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy Connor Pugh Hamilton Southeastern High School *Also nominated to the United States Naval Academy Evan Roudebush Bloomington High School South Josette Sandifur Bishop Chatard High School Declan Squires Culver Academies United States Naval Academy Courtney Bassi Guerin Catholic Highschool Danica Geyer Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School Lincoln Greene Corydon Central High School Andrew Millay Our Lady of Providence High School Ian Miller Seeger Memorial Junior Senior High School Nevaeh Navarre Culver Academies Jack O’Shea Marian Catholic High School Rebecca Rustin Western Boone Jr-Sr. Highschool Amber Summers Corydon Central High School Ellie Walker Crawfordsville High School",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2511,"Congressman Baird Statement on West Virginia National Guardsmen Shot in Washington, D.C.",2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement on the West Virginia National Guardsmen who were shot in Washington, D.C.: “I was devastated to hear about the two West Virginia National Guardsmen who were senselessly shot in Washington, D.C., today. I ask everyone to join me in praying for the soldiers and their families. This attack on these Guardsmen is horrific and unacceptable. The men and women of our National Guard selflessly serve our country and have worked hard to make our nation’s capital safer for every American. Our prayers are with the Guardsmen, their units, and their families during this time. I thank the first responders and law enforcement officers for their quick response, and I hope the perpetrator is brought to swift justice.” ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-asks-dhs-to-locate-and-vet-previously-unvetted-afghan-nationals-admitted-under-biden/,Senator Banks Asks DHS to Locate and Vet Previously Unvetted Afghan Nationals Admitted Under Biden,2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – In 2021, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sounded the alarm about the Biden Administration’s admission of unvetted Afghan nationals into the United States during “Operation Allies Welcome.” Earlier today, two National Guardsmen were tragically shot by one of those Afghan nationals. Following the shooting, Senator Banks called on DHS Secretary Noem to immediately locate and vet all Afghan nationals let in by the Biden Administration during “Operation Allies Welcome.” “The Trump Administration should deport any and all Afghan nationals found without legal status. Likewise, refugees with legal status, but who fail to pass vetting standards, should have their status revoked and be deported,” Sen. Banks said. ICYMI: Senator Banks’ 2021 Warnings: Click the images above or the following links to view Sen. Banks tweets from 2021 and 2022: https://twitter.com/senatorbanks/status/1438185170578903044?s=46 https://twitter.com/senatorbanks/status/1567910084885315584?s=42 ICYMI: Senator Banks’ Statements Following Today’s Shooting: Click the images above or the following links to view Sen. Banks statements on today’s shooting: https://twitter.com/SenatorBanks/status/1993850138599793136?s=20 https://twitter.com/SenatorBanks/status/1993844537081647444?s=20 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2510,Congressman Baird Applauds USDA for Opening Applications for America First Trade Promotion Program,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has created the America First Trade Promotion program (AFTPP) and applauded the agency for establishing this initiative. The AFTPP is a $285 million program designed to help farmers, ranchers, and producers leverage new market opportunities through President Trump’s trade deals and export more of their agricultural products worldwide. Applications for the AFTPP are due January 23, 2026. “President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins’ leadership has ensured that our farmers will benefit from historic trade deals that finally level the playing field and expand their opportunities for export growth,” said Congressman Baird. “I am glad to see the USDA continue to deliver on its commitment to our farmers and producers by creating the America First Trade Promotion Program to help our farmers take full advantage of these opportunities. This program is a historic investment in our great agricultural industry that will allow our farmers to sell their quality products on the global stage. I encourage eligible organizations in Indiana’s Fourth Congressional District to apply.” For more information on the AFTPP or to apply, please click here. ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-bills-advance-out-subcommittee-move-full-energy-and-commerce-committee,"Houchin Bills Advance Out of Subcommittee, Move to Full Energy and Commerce Committee",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced that two of her bills advanced out of House Energy and Commerce subcommittees and will now move to the full Committee for consideration. “I was proud to see two of my bills advance this week on issues that matter to families in Indiana. The Affordable HOMES Act and CABLE Competition Act both remove unnecessary bureaucracy to make it easier for everyday Americans to buy homes and have reliable internet access,” said Rep. Houchin. “I am committed to expanding economic opportunity to ensure our communities thrive. These bills are important steps to make life more affordable, and I will continue to push them forward.” H.R. 5184, the Affordable HOMES Act, introduced with Congressman Mike Flood (NE-01), eliminates unnecessary federal red tape that drives up the cost of manufactured housing. The bill removes the Department of Energy’s authority to regulate manufactured housing energy standards, cutting costly mandates that burden families, builders, and communities. H.R. 4927, the CABLE Competition Act, introduced with Congressman Craig Goldman (TX-12), streamlines the cable franchise transfer process to accelerate broadband expansion in rural and small-town communities. The bill removes unnecessary local approval requirements that often slow down broadband deployment. Both bills now head to the full Energy and Commerce Committee for further consideration.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-hancock-and-marion-counties,Congressman Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Hancock and Marion Counties,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours on Tuesday, December 2, to assist Hoosiers in Hancock and Marion Counties. During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Rep. Shreve’s staff for help resolving issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA). ""Our mobile office hours bring constituent services directly to communities across the Sixth District,” said Congressman Shreve. “If you’re having trouble with a federal agency, my team stands ready to help.” If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333. Mobile Office Hour Details: Hancock County Date: Tuesday, December 2 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location: Greenfield City Hall Council Chambers 10 South State Street Greenfield, IN Marion County Date: Tuesday, December 2 Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Location: Beech Grove City Hall Council Chambers 806 Main Street Beech Grove, IN",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-a-lesson-from-the-iron-lady/,YOUNG COLUMN: A lesson from the Iron Lady,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published in the Washington Examiner on November 25, 2025. Margaret Thatcher’s tenure as prime minister of the United Kingdom ended 35 years ago this month. In her final week in office, during a debate in Parliament on inequality, she raised one hand high and the other low to illustrate the gap between rich and poor. Then, with a sharp motion, she thrust both hands upward, showing that, yes, the gap was widening, but everyone was moving up: a development preferable, she believed, to a leveling-down society where envy replaced aspiration. Baroness Thatcher’s political career was, in large measure, defined by championing freedom and fighting against collectivism. Great Britain was struggling with stagflation after years of socialist-inspired Labour Party policies — nationalization of England’s economy, the excessive empowerment of its trade unions, and high tax rates. She aspired to transform her country into a “get-up-and-go instead of a sit-back-and-wait-for-it” nation. What would Thatcher say today, as democratic socialism finds favor again, this time across the Atlantic? Americans are increasingly intrigued by statist policies as a means to make life more affordable. To those in America who share her commitment to liberty and markets, she would perhaps recite her favorite line from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Faust: “That which thy fathers bequeath thee, earn it anew if thou wouldst possess it.” It was more than a line of poetry. For her, it was a governing philosophy. Thatcher earned it anew with bold new approaches to unleash the full human potential of the British people — to steer her nation from lethargy and despondency back to a healthy, strong, self-confident nationalism. She cut taxes and red tape, reined in spending, tightened the money supply, privatized bloated state industries, and took on militant public-sector unions that paralyzed her nation. Her record was not flawless, but the results were undeniable: She showed the English-speaking world that conservatism need not mean inertia — that a movement rooted in tradition can also be an engine of reform. Today, on the American Right, our own engine of reform needs tuning. Earlier this month, New York City and Seattle offered possible previews of the consequences of ignoring this task. Both cities elected socialist mayors who promised a slate of what Thatcher would describe as “sit-back-and-wait-for-it” policies: free healthcare and transit on city buses, government-run grocery stores, and significant hikes to personal, property, and capital gains taxes. Conservatives might be tempted to dismiss these elections as anomalies; after all, who should be surprised that far-left candidates won elections in deep blue metropolises? It is notable, though, that 75% of New Yorkers between the ages of 18 and 29 supported Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. Here, again, skeptics have categorized these as downwardly mobile, highly educated elites. But could a development beyond reflexive progressivism be driving the new popularity of socialist ideas? And could it spread to purplish districts? After all, citizens, especially those entering prime working age, who are looking for solutions, are likely to support candidates who present solutions, even ruinous ones. And doubts about mobility naturally breed envy of success and policies that punish it. One of the defining statistics of the era is the current average age of new homeowners: 40. A generation ago, in the early 1990s, it was 28. Homeownership, often associated with the American dream and upward mobility, is increasingly out of reach for young Americans. In America, as elsewhere, the last 35 years have brought tectonic structural changes to our economy through rapid globalization, automation, and urbanization. Creative destruction has delivered prosperity, but median real wages have stagnated, wealth inequality has risen, and rates of upward mobility have declined dramatically. Americans are leveraged by debt, struggling to access mortgages, afford healthcare, and pay for groceries and electricity. Mix in perceptions of entrenched institutional nepotism and special interest cronyism, and it is no wonder many working Americans think the system is rigged and they don’t have a fair shot at success based on their abilities. But just as New Yorkers may soon discover, though the problems socialists seek to address are real, the remedies they present are wrong. The only thing socialism equalizes is misery. Thatcher’s hands, representing the haves and yet to haves, both moved upwards. Under socialism, the hands move closer together but not upwards. No, America’s destiny is not statism. President Donald Trump has given voice to a multiracial, multiethnic coalition of working-class Americans who have grown frustrated by a leadership class regarded as insular, self-interested, and deficient in traditional standards of respect and character. This movement has appealed to merit and begun the process of repairing the barnacle-encrusted ladders connecting ambition to opportunity. A process is begun, but we must go further to earn it anew. Until we do, a vacuum remains in which the appeal of socialism as an answer to these societal and economic troubles expands. A new “hands” speech for our time would begin where Thatcher’s ended — with faith in individual initiative. But it would extend that faith beyond its current trajectory to a shared national obligation: to keep opportunity open. It would reject redistribution, while acknowledging that dynamism depends on opportunity — that markets thrive only when talent from every corner can grasp the same rungs of advancement, even if outcomes will always be unequal. It would, in short, ensure that in America, merit is rewarded. Such a message would not scold or promise handouts. It would reaffirm the moral case for earned success while recognizing that healthy capitalism requires maintenance: investments in education, fair competition, and the rule of law that keep markets open and merit meaningful. Thatcher’s two hands — one high, one low, both rising — symbolized a society lifting itself together. Our task now is to resume that lift, making sure no hand rises by weighing another down. This must be the measuring stick for American democracy and for 21st-century conservative leadership. If the invisible hand of the market is to endure, it must once again be connected to the visible hands that work, build, and rise. As Thatcher taught us, the work of conservatives is not to preserve the past unchanged, but to earn it anew. Todd Young is the senior U.S. senator from Indiana. He served as the student representative to Chairwoman Margaret Thatcher at the Institute of United States Studies in London from 2000 to 2001.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-lankford-move-to-protect-medical-residents-from-coercive-abortion-training-practices/,"Young, Lankford Move to Protect Medical Residents from Coercive Abortion Training Practices",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) recently introduced the Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act. The legislation would ensure medical students and residents are not pressured or coerced into abortion training that violates their moral or religious beliefs. The bill would also clear federal protections so that residents are not forced to choose between their conscience and their careers. “Medical students who believe in the sanctity of life should not be pressured to participate in trainings that contradict their values. Our bill will protect the conscience rights of young medical professionals and ensure they can choose life as they advance their careers,” said Senator Young. “Medical residents should never be pressured to violate their beliefs in order to finish their training or advance in their careers,” said Senator Lankford. “Many went into medicine to protect life, not take it. No one should have to choose between their conscience and their future in medicine. Our bill makes that clear and ensures medical students and residents can follow their convictions as they care for their patients.” Under current rules from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, residents are allowed to opt out of abortion training, but the opt-out system puts pressure on trainees to participate in procedures that violate their moral or religious beliefs. Residents often fear that opting out could affect evaluations, recommendations, or future career opportunities. The Conscience Protections for Medical Residents Act would replace the opt-out system with an opt-in system. This would ensure residents can choose whether to participate in abortion training and protect them from discrimination or retaliation if they decline. In addition to Senators Young and Lankford, Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) also joined the legislation.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-holiday-season-houchin-and-menendez-introduce-bipartisan-legislation,"Ahead of Holiday Season, Houchin and Menendez Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Americans from Scams",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representatives Erin Houchin (IN-09) and Rob Menendez (NJ-08) led 11 of their colleagues in introducing the Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation to protect Americans from the growing wave of fraud and financial deception costing families billions each year. Across the country, more than 50 million Americans have suffered monetary losses due to scams online. The bill directs the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to convene an interagency task force to develop a comprehensive national scam prevention strategy to improve consumer education, foster collaboration with international partners, and support victims of scams. The task force will collaborate with banks, tech companies, social media platforms, state attorneys general and local law enforcement to detect and disrupt scams more effectively. “Every day, scammers find new ways to target hardworking Americans, especially seniors and families who can least afford it,"" said Rep. Houchin. ""We have a responsibility to ensure the federal government and law enforcement are working together to stop it. This effort is about holding bad actors accountable and protecting consumers from fraud.” “With scams becoming more sophisticated, we need a coordinated national strategy to protect American consumers,” said Rep. Menendez. “Too many families and seniors across New Jersey are targeted by bad actors online and over the phone. This bipartisan legislation will help streamline efforts for the federal government to partner with both corporations and law enforcement to stop scams earlier, protect victims, and strengthen trust in our digital economy.” “We applaud the bipartisan work of Representatives Menendez and Houchin to bring together key stakeholders across government agencies, industry and law enforcement to combat spam and protect consumers,” said Kelly Cole, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, CTIA - The Wireless Association. “This interagency task force will be a vital tool in educating Americans and strengthening our collective ability to detect bad actors and prevent fraudulent activity across the digital ecosystem.” “The Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act will bring together federal agencies, consumer advocates, and industry leaders to develop and implement a comprehensive national strategy to address scams,” said Jennifer Jones, Vice President of Financial Security and Livable Communities Government Affairs at American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). “By leveraging existing government resources, better coordinating enforcement actions, improving recovery resources for victims, and providing public education, this legislation will help prevent scams and bring justice to those affected.” “The Strategic Task Force on Scam Prevention Act is an important step toward protecting consumers from the growing epidemic of fraud and deception,” said John Breyault, Vice President of Public Policy, Telecommunications and Fraud at the National Consumers League. “By bringing together the FTC, DOJ, and key federal agencies to coordinate enforcement and public education, this bill ensures that government is working smarter and faster to stop scammers in their tracks. Consumers deserve a united front in the fight against fraud, and this legislation delivers exactly that.” “In 2025, NASAA urged Congress to establish a task force and prioritize a strategy to combat the online scam epidemic. We applaud Representatives Menendez and Houchin for introducing legislation that advances these priorities,” said Marni Rock Gibson, President of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). “As we strengthen local-state-federal coordination on scam prevention and enforcement, it is vital to preserve state and local authorities — the first line of defense against scams.” As scams surge during the holiday season, this legislation establishes a federal task force to develop a national strategy to address scams and lower the risk of financial losses as a result of fraudulent activity.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=191,ICYMI: Rep. Mark Messmer Joins EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin for Major Announcement on WOTUS Proposal,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, and other Members of Congress, at an agency announcement clarifying what constitutes a ‘water of the United States’ under the Clean Water Act. Up until now, landowners, developers, and farmers, have been forced to operate in an environment marked by burdensome federal overreach. The EPA’s proposed rule gives Americans much needed certainty. Read Rep. Messmer’s full remarks at the rule unveiling here: “Good morning to everyone here today and thank you Administrator Zeldin for extending the invitation to participate in today’s ground-breaking announcement. “The lack of clarity around “waters of the United States” has plagued American homeowners, farmers, and developers for decades. “Instead of working to improve the quality of our lakes, rivers, and wetlands, this failed regulatory language has hamstrung backyards across America in regulatory confusion. “Under the WOTUS obscurity, Hoosier farmers working their lands and families renovating their homes have been served fines and court dates their actions never warranted. “Conservationists, producers, and residents across Indiana’s 8th Congressional District are experts in managing their local resources. “These local leaders, especially in our beautiful state of Indiana, know how to protect our environment best. “And after working for several years in the Indiana legislature on state WOTUS regulations, I know how desperately in need of reform this policy is. “Today’s announcement concludes an era marked by overregulation and deference to faceless bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. “I applaud Administrator Zeldin and the Trump administration for their efforts to gather commentary from stakeholders across the nation, including Hoosier leaders. “This is precisely how federal regulations should be developed. “By leveraging the time-tried expertise of those impacted by “WOTUS” failures, EPA has reached a robust definition and a just framework that finally offers landowners the clarity they deserve. “I look forward to a continued partnership with President Trump and Administrator Zeldin as we roll out policies that reflect the insight of the American people and reform regulations that have handcuffed our communities for far too long. “Thank you. “God bless Indiana, and God bless America.” To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting our community in Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here. ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-members-congress-launch-federal-push-fund-ohio-river-restoration,Bipartisan Members of Congress Launch Federal Push to Fund Ohio River Restoration,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09), along with Congressman Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), led introduction of the Ohio River Restoration Program Act with Reps. Mark Messmer (IN-08), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Emilia Sykes (OH-13), and Mike Rulli (OH-06) to fund the restoration of the Ohio River. The bipartisan coalition of Members represents districts throughout the Ohio River Basin, which spans 55 congressional districts across 15 states. The Ohio serves as a source of drinking water for more than 25 million Americans, and its resources are vital to local economies and industries, generating more than 500,000 jobs and $21 billion in wages. Nationwide, more than a third of the United States’ river-based commerce travels on the Ohio River – accounting for $43 billion in commodities annually – yet the Ohio River is still the nation’s largest body of water without any dedicated federal funding. The bill would direct up to $350 million in federal investments to the large-scale restoration of the Ohio River Basin, using successful approaches similar to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. “The Ohio River is critical to our way of life in Southern Indiana,” said Rep. Houchin. “It strengthens our economy, supports our farmers and manufacturers, and provides drinking water for millions of families. Communities along the Ohio have invested in protecting this resource for generations, and it is time for the federal government to become a real partner in those efforts. I am proud to coauthor this bipartisan bill that will help restore the river, protect public health, and strengthen the economic future of the entire region.” “The Ohio River is an economic engine that powers industries and supports billions in nationwide commerce, but at home in the River City, it’s our lifeblood – it’s the water we drink, it’s the way we make a living, it’s a place to keep traditions alive and find community with our neighbors,” said Rep. McGarvey. “And yet, our local communities who rely on it most and have helped sustain this vital resource for years still haven't gotten a dime in dedicated federal funding to properly protect and restore this critical resource right in our backyard. The Ohio River has been overlooked for far too long, and it’s time for it to get the attention and investment it deserves.” “The Ohio River is a lifeline for so many communities in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District,” said Rep. Deluzio. “From drinking water to commerce and recreation, and more—our prosperity relies on a clean and healthy Ohio River. There’s a lot of good work happening to help improve the resilience and livability of our river—but not a lot of funding to get things done. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Ohio River Restoration Program Act to dedicate resources to help protect and restore the Ohio River for generations to come.” “My district is home to both the Lake Erie and Ohio River watersheds. We know how vital clean water is for our communities, our economy, and our health,” said Rep. Sykes. “I’m proud to co-lead the Ohio River Restoration Program Act, which will provide resources to restore water infrastructure while protecting the environment. This legislation ensures the Ohio River remains a thriving resource for generations to come.” “I am proud to co-lead this vital legislation and thank Rep. McGarvey for introducing it,” said Rep. Rulli. “For generations, the Ohio River has served as the backbone of Ohio’s 6th Congressional District and an economic lifeline for our nation, playing a crucial role in settling America and building us into an economic powerhouse. This restoration program is a smart investment that will restore abundant fish and wildlife while keeping the river clean and healthy for future generations.” ""The Ohio River Basin is essential to not only the health of thousands of Hoosier residents, but to the vitality of southern Indiana's agricultural and industrial communities,” said Rep. Messmer. “The conservation network in Indiana's 8th Congressional District has worked tirelessly to preserve access to recreation within the basin and reinforce existing ecosystems. I am proud to bolster their investments in one of America's most impactful watersheds by supporting the Ohio River Basin Restoration Program Act."" The Ohio River Restoration Program Act would create a federal office within the Environmental Protection Agency to guide a restoration plan in coordination with states and local governments.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-launches-bipartisan-kids-online-safety-caucus,Houchin Launches Bipartisan Kids Online Safety Caucus,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) announced the launch of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Caucus, dedicated to protecting children in the evolving digital world. The caucus will serve as a hub for lawmakers, parents, educators, and industry experts to share information and develop practical solutions that keep children safe online. The initiative comes as families across the country face rising concerns about social media harms, online exploitation, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence on young users. “As a mother of three, I have seen how dangerous the online world has become for kids. Today, children are facing risks that parents could not have imagined even a decade ago. From social media and AI chatbots to video and gaming platforms, the potential dangers are evolving with every new technology and trend. It’s hard for both parents and policymakers to keep up. That is why we are launching the Kids Online Safety Caucus. Families deserve real tools and clear information to help them navigate this rapidly changing digital age, and Congress must hold Big Tech accountable when their platforms put children at risk. Our goal for the caucus is simple: empower parents and protect kids,” said Rep. Houchin. The new caucus will focus on: Ensuring transparency and accountability from technology companies Equipping parents with clear, accessible resources Promoting bipartisan, constitutionally sound policy solutions Monitoring emerging online risks, including AI-driven platforms Supporting ongoing research on youth mental health and digital safety The launch follows Houchin’s continued leadership on children’s online safety, including her work on the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and the recently introduced AWARE Act, the first House bill to address AI chatbot companions and their risks to minors. The newly formed caucus is led by Houchin and Congressman Jake Auchincloss (MA-04). “Rep. Auchincloss has been a tremendous leader and partner on these important issues, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together,” said Rep. Houchin.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=190,Messmer Introduces Legislation to Repeal Burdensome Biden-Era Heat Standard Rule,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) announced the introduction of the Heat Workforce Standards Act of 2025 in the House of Representatives. Rep. Messmer’s legislation repeals sweeping and unworkable Biden Administration heat standards that had threatened to impel unnecessary mandates and excessive federal penalties upon American businesses and institutions. “As a small business owner myself, I’ve seen how unwarranted, heavy-handed regulations can crush innovation, increase costs, and undermine the productivity of American institutions,” said Rep. Messmer. “The Biden Heat Rule was never about safety, but was rather, unsurprisingly, focused upon expanding federal bureaucratic control over hard working Americans. My Heat Workforce Standards Act empowers employers to maintain safe and realistic workplace standard parameters which allow for both their workers and the business to thrive.” “Americans deserve safe workplaces—yet the Biden-Harris administration’s heavy-handed approach to heat safety will hurt workers instead of helping them. Needless to say, California, Florida, and Michigan are miles apart when it comes to heat, and heat hazards in construction are very different from the hazards in manufacturing or agriculture. That is why any standard intended to prevent and reduce heat-related injuries must be flexible and keep workers safe in ways that best address their unique environments and challenges. The Biden-Harris proposed heat rule does not have that much-needed flexibility, which is why this bill is a necessary step in protecting workers and preventing federal overreach so we can help workers earn a living and get home safe,”said House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg. As a small business owner himself, Rep. Messmer supports creating a better working environment for Hoosiers and all American businesses and institutions by eliminating unwarranted red tape and regulations. The Heat Workforce Standards Act of 2025 is a step in the right direction. BACKGROUND: Near the end of the Biden Administration, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) attempted to fast-track a policy known as “The Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings.” In practice, the rule would have forced nearly every American business and institution to follow rigid, one-size-fits-all, federal workplace standards based on predetermined temperature thresholds, regardless of industry, climate, or existing safety protocols. This rule would create a one-size fits all regulatory approach for most of the American workforce that experience exposure to temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 15 minutes in any given hour. State governments already have the authority to establish their own occupational safety and health standards and are required to have their plans be “at least as effective” as Federal OSHA standards. If it had been implemented, the Biden’s Heat Rule would: Place redundant and egregious regulation requirements with little variance considered for industry-specific outdoor and indoor heat variables and differences in outdoor climates between all 50 states Fail to recognize employers who already have heat injury prevention measures in place Mandate federal intervention and costly fines should small businesses not match the federal criteria Remove state governments’ ability to create targeted Heat Rules that are specific to their climate and local industries Original cosponsors include Reps. Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Harriet Hageman (R-WY), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Rob Wittman (R-VA), Mary Miller (R-IL), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Andy Harris (R-MD), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Ben Cline (R-VA), Bob Onder (R-MO), Chip Roy (R-TX), John McGuire (R-VA), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Adrian Smith (R-NE), David Rouzer (R-NC), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), Brian Jack (R-GA), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), and Lance Gooden (R-TX). “The Biden administration’s proposed OSHA heat standard is a sweeping, one-size-fits-all mandate that would burden employers, strain our workforce, and undermine industries that already operate under rigorous safety protocols. The Heat Workforce Standards Act is a necessary check on this regulatory overreach. By preventing this costly and unworkable rule from taking effect, we protect jobs, safeguard American productivity, and ensure that workplace safety standards remain practical, science-based, and responsive to real-world conditions—not driven by Washington bureaucrats,” said Rep. Paul Gosar. “Frankly, Democrats have never met a burdensome, costly regulation they didn’t like. The Biden-Administration-proposed OSHA Heat Standard is a one-size-fits-all mandate that will impose sweeping, reckless requirements on businesses nationwide - with no regard for regional climate differences or industry-specific job needs. OSHA is responsible for regulating occupational safety and health hazards, and I believe we need to make that distinction clear, so employers aren’t forced to shoulder unnecessary, irrelevant, and costly compliance burdens. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to prevent this destructive policy from taking hold - it’s bad for business, bad for our economy, and bad for our nation,” said Rep. Bob Onder. “The Heat Rule is an example of executive overreach — creating costly, inflexible requirements and mounds of paperwork for small business owners across Virginia's First District. I am proud to support the Heat Workforce Standards Act, which overturns this burdensome regulation and ensures similar rulings must have the consent of Congress,” said Rep. Rob Wittman. The Heat Workforce Standards Act also has the support of numerous organizations, including: Alliance for Chemical Distribution, American Bakers Association, American Building Materials Alliance, American Craft Spirits Association, American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, American Supply Association, Drycleaning & Laundry Institute, Global Cold Chain Alliance, Heating, Air-conditioning, & Refrigeration Distributors International, Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc., Job Creators Network, Mason Contractors Association of America, National Apartment Association, National Association of Electrical Distributors, National Federation of Independent Business, National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, National Restaurant Association, National RV Dealers Association, National Small Business Association, NATSO, Representing America's Travel Centers and Truck Stops, North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers, Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council, Steel Manufacturers Association, and Steel Tank Institute/Steel Plate Fabricators Association. “Small businesses overwhelmingly oppose the Biden Administration’s proposed OSHA Heat Standard as it would add unworkable, new, one-sized-fits-all mandates and dramatically increase the federal government’s regulatory control over their business. Small businesses are already taking steps to ensure their workers do not experience a heat-related injury or illness. Yet, the Biden Administration’s proposed OSHA Heat Standard fails to recognize this fact and instead would cripple small businesses, who work without government intervention to protect their employees’ health and safety, with more mandates and regulatory burdens. NFIB strongly supports the Heat Workforce Standards Act to prevent the burdensome proposed OSHA Heat Standard from being implemented. Small businesses thank Representative Messmer for his leadership and urge Congress to promptly enact the legislation.” – Dylan Rosnick, Principal of Federal Government Relations, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is working for small businesses in Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here. ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-celebrates-250th-birthday-of-the-u-s-marine-corps/,Young Celebrates 250th Birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"**Click here or above to watch Senator Young’s floor speech.** WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), a Marine veteran, spoke on the Senate floor about the 250th Birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps, officially celebrated on November 10, 2025. “Whether on land, sea, or air…in war or peace…in the service or after it…For 250 years, the U.S. Marine Corps has not just trained warriors but made citizens. There are no fiercer defenders of our freedom. No greater examples of the virtues that make our republic function,” said Young. In his remarks, Young spoke about a photo of three young Indiana University students who swore the oath to defend their country in March 1942. To watch the full floor speech, click here. Senator Young’s full remarks are below: On the campus of Indiana University, a tablet placed on the floor of the Student Union pays tribute to the men and women who served in the Civil War. Over 80 years ago, in March 1942, three young Hoosiers stood over that marker, raised their right hands, and joined those ranks. When the oath began, they were college students, in the last days of childhood. When it was complete, they were Marines, the first to fight for their country… They joined a long line of American heroes dating all the way back to the Revolutionary War. On November 10, 1775, when America contemplated a difficult amphibious assault of the British supply hub in Nova Scotia, the Continental Congress called for the raising of a regiment to execute the difficult expedition. A special breed of warrior capable of fighting on land and sea. Just the type of men, “acquainted with maritime affairs,” as the Continental Congress phrased it, were to be found at Tun Tavern, a brewhouse on Philadelphia’s waterfront. On the same day the colonial government passed its resolution, they commissioned Samuel Nicholas to raise this force. Not long after, he walked through the tavern’s door and appointed its owner Robert Mullan chief recruiter. Together, with the lure of high adventure, mugs full of cold beer, and the call to defend their homes, they enlisted two battalions of men. They were the first members of the United States Marine Corps. Beginning on that day in Philadelphia, to countless days like the one on the campus of Indiana University, millions of men and women have answered their nation’s call. For two hundred and fifty years, from the shores of Nassau to the walls of Abbey Gate, they have defended our flag, our way of life, and freedom’s friends, far from its shores… They have been asked and often done the impossible. Because of their daring, their relentlessness, and their ingenuity… …the United States Marine Corps will always be synonymous with danger…. …danger to any foe that would threaten the American people. A history of vanquished foes can testify to this: Barbary Pirates, whose strongholds Leathernecks marched across the African desert to conquer. British Redcoats mowed down during the Battle of New Orleans, when Marines formed the center of the city’s defense under General Jackson. Mexican cadets, who watched as Marines stormed the Halls of Montezuma and raised the stars and stripes over Chapultepec Castle. German soldiers driven from Belleau Wood by the greatly outnumbered, 4th Marine Brigade. Japanese troops who bombarded Marines as they landed on the black sands of Iwo Jima… …and then listened from their bunkers as the Americans cheered while six members of the 5th Marine Division planted their flag at the summit of Mount Suribachi. The al-Qaeda insurgents killed and captured in Fallujah when the Marines fought from street to street, house to house. These and countless other battles were won at terrible cost; tens of thousands Marines killed or wounded in action; widows and widowers, sons and daughters left behind. The history of the Marine Corps is one of incredible heroism and great sacrifice. But to reduce the Marine Corps only to those virtues, is to understate its importance in American history. Marines are not simply warriors, but, as Ronald Reagan once said, the ideal of “soldierly virtue.” On the wall of my office hangs my Mameluke – the curved saber a Marine carries at his side. Its history began on “the shores of Tripoli” when that band of Marines took the Libyan port city of Derna. For this victory, they were awarded a mameluke from an Ottoman prince. Two decades later it officially became part of an officer’s dress uniform. Today its use is largely ceremonial. But if used wisely, it becomes a tool with multiple purposes; like the Marine who carries it. Marines are not just taught the virtues that make men and women soldiers — courage under fire and physical strength — but also the ones that make them good citizens once their service has ended. This photograph captures the moment in 1942 when those three young Indiana University students swore the oath to defend their country. The lives of the men in it, on the battlefield and off of it, demonstrated what it means to be a Marine. They were honorable. Three years after the picture was snapped, the man at its center wandered Okinawa, searching for souvenirs to send home. He was there as part of the American assault on the island, a precursor to attacks on the Japanese mainland. “The death and destruction leave bad taste in my mouth and strike me deeply as the horrible part of the war,” Lieutenant Maurice “Pat” David wrote his family in Nashville. But the cause was just, he wrote. The bodies of old women and young girls murdered by the Imperial Japanese Army proved it. He encouraged his parents not to worry about his safety. But months later he was severely wounded, returned to the states and later awarded a Purple Heart. Through his service in the Corps, Lieutenant Col. David attended law school in Washington, DC. Then he served as a legal officer before retiring from the Marine Corps after 22 years of service. He then returned home to Indiana, settling in Columbus with his wife and daughters. Lt. David served his country with honor during his time in the Marine Corps. He did the same for his community after it concluded. He was elected a Superior Court Judge, practiced law for nearly 20 years, and, after retiring, served as a senior judge in Southern Indiana. As a lawyer, he was dedicated to his clients. As a judge, he treated the attorneys before him thoughtfully, reasoning they were clients as well. When he died in 2016, it was after living a life defined by what he learned in the Marines Corps: integrity, devotion to justice, service for a cause greater than oneself. They were courageous. The man to Lt. David’s right in the photo was Leonard Alford, of Garrett, Indiana. A year after he stood at the memorial plaque in Bloomington, Alford sat in a tent staring at the Pacific Ocean. “I know you have been worried because you have not heard from me,” he wrote to his parents from an island he was not at liberty to name. He had earned a Silver Star, leading the men of the 4th Marine Raider Battalion in battle on New Georgia as his men fought across the Solomon Islands. Afterwards, they were redesignated the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines and Alford was made company captain. Members of the original 4th Marine Regiment were lost on Bataan and Corregidor. “We hope to be able to keep their good name,” he shared with his family. Because of Captain Alford’s courage they did. Two years later, when Captain Alford was awarded a second Silver Star, which was turned to Gold, it was posthumously. In the closing weeks of the Okinawa campaign, he led a charge towards one the island’s remaining Japanese strongholds. Under heavy fire, ignoring his safety, he steadied the Marines, insured their advance and sacrificed his life for the success of the campaign and the freedom of his country. They were committed. The last man in the photo was Corporal John Irwin Murray, Hartford City. In the years after the photo was taken, he remained on campus, drilling with Pershing Rifles. After graduation he trained on Parris Island. Corporal Murray spent sixteen months on Guadalcanal and Guam; then he was deployed to China with the 6th Marines Division. After the war, he settled in California where he married and raised a family and worked as an accountant and a teacher. Unlike the two other Marines in the photo, there is very little public information about Corporal Murray’s life – occasional updates in the Indiana University alumni magazine on his time in the Marines, his letters home from the Pacific lamenting how few other Hoosiers he met there. He lived a meaningful civilian life, without fanfare. Commitment to duty doesn’t demand glory or a long military career—it’s about showing up when needed and then quietly contributing to society afterward. Our service continues in the everyday work of building communities and supporting families. Corporal Murray represents something essential about the Marine Corps: Most of us who serve will return to become good citizens, neighbors, and workers, carrying a sense of duty into ordinary American life. That’s not less important than the other two paths; it’s an expression of the same commitment. Whether on land, sea, or air… in war or peace…in the service or after it…For 250 years, the U.S. Marine Corps has not just trained warriors but made citizens. There are no fiercer defenders of our freedom. No greater examples of the virtues that make our republic function. As we celebrate this great anniversary throughout the month of November, we thank and salute the men in that photo, and every member of the Corps, always faithful, for their service and for their sacrifices. It is impossible to imagine America without the Marines.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-repeal-burdensome-federal-housing-mandates/,"Young, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Repeal Burdensome Federal Housing Mandates",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) joined a group of Republican colleagues inintroducing legislation to eliminate expensive Biden-era Green New Deal housing mandates. The HOUSE Act would repeal the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Determination on energy efficiency standards for new construction of HUD-and-USDA-financed housing. “Hoosiers continue to face rising housing costs, and policymakers should be working to expand housing supply and affordability, not imposing new hurdles. These Biden-era mandates add unnecessary expenses and slow down construction at a time when families need relief,” said Senator Young. “Our legislation will restore common-sense standards to increase our housing supply, lower costs, and ensure hard-working Americans have access to safe, affordable places to live.” Background: The HOUSE Act would: Repeal the HUD and USDA Final Determination on energy efficiency standards for new construction of HUD-and-USDA-financed housing. Require HUD and USDA to revert to the 2009 standards that are already in effect. This would alleviate the undue pressure that is being put on an already constrained housing supply. Prohibit the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from implementing a similar mandate for VA mortgages. It would also clarify that the Federal Housing Finance Agency has no statutory authority to impose similar mandates. Reform underlying law by prohibiting HUD and USDA from adopting new efficiency mandates unless at least 26 states have already adopted similar standards. In addition to Senator Young, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) also introduced the legislation. Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-kelly-introduce-legislation-to-protect-american-ai-innovation/,"Young, Kelly Introduce Legislation to Protect American AI Innovation",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), both members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, introduced the Advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) Security Readiness Act. The legislation would direct the National Security Agency (NSA) to develop an AI security playbook to protect America’s advanced technology from foreign adversaries. “America’s leadership in advanced technology depends on our ability to protect it. As our foreign adversaries race to steal and exploit cutting-edge AI systems, we must stay ahead of these threats,” said Senator Young. “The Advanced AI Security Readiness Act will ensure the intelligence professionals at NSA have the tools and direction needed to safeguard U.S. innovation and preserve America’s technology advantages.” “AI increasingly powers our defense, intelligence, critical infrastructure, scientific innovation, and much of our economy. If it’s vulnerable, we’re vulnerable,” said Senator Kelly. “This bipartisan legislation gets the NSA prepared to spot attacks early and defend our country’s AI innovation from anyone trying to exploit it. As AI evolves, we need to stay ahead of the challenges it brings to keep Americans safe.” Background: The Advanced AI Security Readiness Act would direct the NSA’s AI Security Center to develop an AI Security Playbook that identifies potential vulnerabilities and threats and establishes security strategies and contingency plans for America’s advanced AI systems. More specifically, the legislation would: Safeguard American AI innovation from theft or sabotage by foreign actors, maintaining our national defense and technological leadership; Strengthen our national security by developing strategies to identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats from foreign adversaries; and Protect U.S. AI ecosystems by directing the NSA to proactively identify vulnerabilities within AI technologies and the AI supply chain. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2506,Congressman Baird Offers Condolences to Family of Indiana National Guardsman Spc. Terry Frye,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement offering his condolences to the family and friends of Spc. Terry Frye, a member of the Indiana National Guard from Lafayette, IN. Spc. Frye passed away in an accident in a convoy to Camp Atterbury for training on a drill weekend. Three other Indiana National Guardsmen were injured in the accident. “I was saddened to hear that Spc. Terry Frye passed away. I want to extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends, and I am praying for their comfort during this unimaginably difficult time. Our country is grateful for Terry’s service. Our Guardsmen serve our country honorably, and this loss is an immense tragedy. I also pray for the swift and full recovery of the other three Indiana National Guardsmen injured in the accident, and I thank the first responders involved for their swift response on the scene.” ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2507,Congressman Baird Statement on Voting to Release the Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act to release all unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell: “The American people want and deserve answers on the horrific crimes committed by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. While Epstein and Maxwell entrenched themselves with some of the most powerful and influential people in the world, they committed terrible crimes that ruined over 1,000 young girls’ lives. On September 3, 2025, the House passed H. Res. 668, which directed the House Oversight Committee to continue its ongoing inquiry into Epstein. I voted for this legislation to allow Chairman Comer to conduct a thorough investigation that included depositions with many former high-ranking government officials, subpoenas for the Epstein estate, and appropriate protections for the victims. The Department of Justice has also been fully cooperating with the House Oversight Committee’s investigation, and the committee has released over 60,000 pages of documents related to the investigation. Today, I voted for a bill to direct the Department of Justice to publicly release all unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein or Ghislaine Maxwell. I am deeply disappointed in the actions of my House Democrat colleagues, as evidence has come to light about Democrat officials’ ties to the disgraced and deceased financier. My vote today in favor of this legislation will ensure transparency in this ongoing investigation and hopefully deliver some long-overdue justice for the victims.” ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/houchin-statement-efforts-release-epstein-files-and-protect-victims,Houchin Statement on Efforts to Release Epstein Files and Protect Victims,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House passed legislation requiring full transparency surrounding the Jeffrey Epstein files. Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) released the following statement: “I have always supported full transparency when it comes to the Epstein files. Before my time in Congress, I served as a case manager in child protective services and worked closely with victims of abuse. I have seen the trauma these children endure, and my focus has always been on protecting victims and holding predators fully accountable. Anyone involved in these horrific crimes must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The brave women who have come forward deserve justice. As these files are released, every victim must know that their safety and dignity come first and that their government is committed to protecting them, not the people who abused them.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-secures-federal-funding-improve-safety-county-road-144,Congressman Shreve Secures Federal Funding To Improve Safety on County Road 144 in Bargersville,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bargersville, IN — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) secured $1.6 million in federal funding to help rebuild County Road 144 in Bargersville — a stretch of road local leaders have flagged for years. After hearing directly from them about the accidents and growing risks along this corridor, Mr. Shreve pushed for this project in the FY2026 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, now signed into law. County Road 144 has been too narrow for the increasing traffic it carries each day. The combination of high volume and aging pavement has made it a hotspot for crashes. These funds will support safety upgrades on County Road 144: widening the shoulders so disabled cars or farm equipment have room to pull off safely, and repaving the worn roadbed to cut down on crashes and delays. This investment will make the daily drive smoother, safer, and quicker. As a key connector to I-69, these upgrades will support local commerce, and open the door for continued growth across the region.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases/spartz-announces-2025-military-academy-nominations,Spartz Announces 2025 Military Academy Nominations,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Victoria Spartz,S000929,spartz.house.gov,spartz,https://spartz.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Noblesville, IN – Today, Rep. Victoria Spartz (IN-05) announced the names of high school seniors from Indiana’s Fifth District who have been nominated to attend the United States Military Academies. These prestigious academies offer young people the opportunity to serve our country while receiving a world-class education and full scholarships. “It is a true honor to nominate these exceptional students. They represent the best and brightest of our district, demonstrating the talent, drive, and commitment to service that our district and our nation holds dear,"" said Rep. Spartz, ""I am confident each of them will excel in their academic and military careers and make meaningful contributions to the future of our armed forces.” US Air Force Academy: Brennan Baker – Hamilton Southeastern High School Helena Gibson – Carmel High School Nicholas Hendrickson – Monroe Central High School Izabelle Kammers – Carmel High School Marcus LaCroix – Hamilton Southeastern High School Noah Lorincz – Westfield High School Joshua Orahood – Carmel High School Patrick Powers – Yorktown High School Connor Pugh – Hamilton Southeastern High School Connor Sweeney – Achieve Virtual Academy Jacob Trueblood – Taylor High School Taylor Zhang – Carmel High School US Naval Academy: Brennan Baker – Hamilton Southeastern High School Courtney Bassi – Guerin Catholic High School Paul Dash – Mississinewa High School Helena Gibson – Carmel High School Quentin Klee – Guerin Catholic High School Ada Mertes – Guerin Catholic High School Anna Ososki – Guerin Catholic High School Patrick Powers – Yorktown High School Connor Pugh – Hamilton Southeastern High School Robert Shaw – Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School Connor Sweeney – Achieve Virtual Academy Taylor Zhang – Carmel High School US Military Academy at West Point: Brennan Baker – Hamilton Southeastern High School Luke Doyle – Culver Military Academy Caleb Haney – Westfield High School Quentin Klee – Guerin Catholic High School Noah Lorincz – Westfield High School Anna Ososki – Guerin Catholic High School Patrick Powers – Yorktown High School Connor Pugh – Hamilton Southeastern High School Dylan Todd – Westfield High School Taylor Zhang – Carmel High School US Merchant Marine Academy: Brennan Baker – Hamilton Southeastern High School Paul Dash – Mississinewa High School Marcus LaCroix – Hamilton Southeastern High School Patrick Powers – Yorktown High School Connor Pugh – Hamilton Southeastern High School Connor Sweeney – Achieve Virtual Academy",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases/senator-rod-bray-and-indiana-state-senate-republicans-need-fight-conservative,SENATOR ROD BRAY AND INDIANA STATE SENATE REPUBLICANS NEED TO FIGHT FOR CONSERVATIVE HOOSIERS,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Marlin A. Stutzman,S001188,stutzman.house.gov,stutzman,https://stutzman.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"HOWE, IN – Today, Congressman Marlin Stutzman (IN-03) released the following statement after Senator Rod Bray announced the Indiana State Senate will not take up redistricting. ""Senator Bray and anti-Trump Indiana Senate Republicans made it clear today that they would rather protect André Carson, stand with Pete Buttigieg, and let Gavin Newsom steamroll Hoosier voices than support the conservative America First agenda,” said Rep. Stutzman. “President Trump won Indiana by nearly 20 points almost one year ago to date, and still Indiana Senators would rather work on behalf of the Democrat Party than their own constituents. Indiana is a Republican state, and conservative Hoosiers deserve equal representation in Washington. I am calling on the Senate to hold a redistricting vote, even if it will fail, so Hoosiers can see if their Senator stands with President Trump or the rudderless Democratic Socialist movement.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-introduces-veterans-sport-act-to-expand-va-coverage-for-recreational-prosthetics/,Sen. Banks Introduces Veterans SPORT Act to Expand VA Coverage for Recreational Prosthetics,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Last week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the Veterans SPORT Act. This legislation would expand the VA medical benefits package to fully cover recreational prosthetics on a permanent basis. Senator Angus King (I-Maine.) is an original cosponsor of this bill. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Our disabled veterans made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our nation, and they shouldn’t have to navigate VA red tape to get the medical equipment they need to lead active lifestyles. The Veterans SPORT Act would make sure their prosthetics are always covered.” The bill is endorsed by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Wounded Warrior Project, Orthotic and Prosthetic Group of America, and National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics. Key Provisions of the Veterans SPORTAct are: Add recreational prosthetics to the VA medical benefit package, ensuring they are always fully covered. Full text of the bill can be found here Background: Veterans who play sports and exercise regularly report higher self-esteem, lower levels of depression and anxiety, and reduced stress. Physical activity is associated with reduced symptoms of PTSD. However, veterans with physical disabilities may need activity-specific prostheses and custom orthoses to participate in sports, and these devices are expensive. Current law restricts the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from providing recreational prosthetics unless they are considered a “direct and active component” of medical treatment. As a result, prosthetics that support exercise beyond a prescribed rehabilitation plan are typically not covered. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-votes-reopen-our-government,Congressman Shreve Votes To Reopen Our Government,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) voted this evening to reopen our federal government and end the Democrat-led shutdown. He released the following statement after passage of the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act: “This evening, I voted to reopen our government after weeks of costly delay in the Senate. Too many Hoosier families were caught in the middle while Washington played politics. This shutdown didn’t solve a thing — it just created real headaches for the people who count on federal services to work. It was past time to restore some stability and get this government operating again. I’m glad we’re back on track.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-urges-army-to-approve-renovations-to-the-arlington-chaplains-memorials-to-honor-all-fallen-military-chaplains/,Sen. Banks Urges Army to Approve Renovations to the Arlington Chaplains Memorials to Honor All Fallen Military Chaplains,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Last week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll urging the Department of the Army to approve updates to the Protestant and Catholic chaplains memorials on Arlington National Cemetery’s Chaplains Hill. These updates would ensure that fallen chaplains are honored for their service and sacrifice. Chris Motz, Senior Counsel for First Liberty Institute: “Our military chaplains may not carry weapons, but they serve and sacrifice nonetheless. And for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, memorializing them on Arlington National Cemetery’s hallowed ground is the very least we can do. We are grateful for Senator Banks’ leadership on this issue.” Dan Wiley, National Commander of The American Legion: “On behalf of our 1.5 million members, The American Legion strongly urges the immediate addition of the names of 84 war-time Chaplains killed in action to the Chaplains Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery. The delay of these additions fails to honor the sacrifices of fallen chaplains who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. The American Legion remains committed to advocating for proper recognition of our nations heroes and we thank Senator Banks for his work on this issue.” In part, the letter reads: “Military chaplains have served America’s armed forces in the barracks and on the battlefield for over 250 years. They offer strength, comfort, and hope for the men and women putting their lives on the line to defend our nation. Their steadfast devotion has supported our servicemembers in living their faith even in the most dangerous circumstances. I know this administration strongly supports religious liberty and recognizes the vital work of military chaplains. President Trump established the White House Faith Office to expand partnerships with religious organizations and ensure all executive agencies defend the free exercise of religion. Under Secretary Hegseth’s leadership, the Department of War has reaffirmed its commitment to religious expression through clearer guidance for commanders.” Click here to see the full letter or see text below: Dear Secretary Driscoll: I encourage you to approve the updating of the Protestant and Catholic chaplains memorials on Arlington National Cemetery’s Chaplains Hill. As you know, Congress authorized the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces (NCMAF) to do so in the fiscal year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) at no cost to the government, subject to the Secretary of the Army’s approval. My understanding is NCMAF is ready and willing to add names to the monuments and has raised the necessary funding to do so. Chaplains Hill, in Section 2 of Arlington National Cemetery, contains four memorials inscribed with the names of military chaplains who died in service. The memorials are lasting tributes honoring their legacy. While the World War I and Jewish chaplains monuments are up to date, the Catholic and Protestant chaplains monuments are incomplete. Specifically, the Protestant chaplains memorial has not been updated since its dedication in 1981 and only includes the names of chaplains who served during World War I and World War II. That means eligible Protestant chaplains who served in Korea, Vietnam, the Global War on Terrorism and other wars have not been recognized. Additionally, the Catholic chaplains memorial is missing the name of one eligible Catholic priest, who died in service from injuries suffered during the Iraq War. The Office of the Chief of Chaplains in each service branch has affirmed the names of the chaplains who are eligible for inclusion, as the law requires. Military chaplains have served America’s armed forces in the barracks and on the battlefield for over 250 years. They offer strength, comfort, and hope for the men and women putting their lives on the line to defend our nation. Their steadfast devotion has supported our servicemembers in living their faith even in the most dangerous circumstances. I know this administration strongly supports religious liberty and recognizes the vital work of military chaplains. President Trump established the White House Faith Office to expand partnerships with religious organizations and ensure all executive agencies defend the free exercise of religion. Under Secretary Hegseth’s leadership, the Department of War has reaffirmed its commitment to religious expression through clearer guidance for commanders. It is time to honor every fallen chaplain. I urge you to move forward with renovating the Chaplains Hill monuments so they are all remembered with the dignity and gratitude they deserve. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wtas-sen-banks-hosts-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit-featuring-secretary-of-war-hegseth/,WTAS: Sen. Banks Hosts 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit Featuring Secretary of War Hegseth,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fort Wayne, Ind. – This week, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) hosted the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit Featuring Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan, and defense industry leaders from across Indiana. MEDIA ROUNDUP: IndyStar: ‘Woke and Weak’: Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Speaks at Jim Banks’ Indiana Defense Summit “Hegseth’s visit to Fort Wayne comes as Indiana looks to expand its defense industry. Indiana is home to the third largest naval base in the world in Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane and Fort Wayne’s own L3Harris Technologies is helping the Department of War build a missile defense system called the ‘Golden Dome.’” The Journal Gazette: US Secretary of the Navy: Indiana will provide industry to retool US Navy “U.S. Secretary of the Navy John Phelan said Wednesday that Indiana will be essential to modernizing the military branch.” “Phelan told Indiana defense industry leaders that they are key to retooling the fleet” “‘America’s Navy doesn’t start at sea,’ he said. ‘It starts here where you make things.’” “The Navy is investing in every level of manufacturing, Phelan said, to ensure Marines and sailors are the safest and most prepared they can be when conflict arises. Indiana will be a key factor in that.” “‘That’s where manufacturing powerhouses like Indiana come in,’ he said. ‘You’re the quiet giants of America’s advanced industrial pace. Your machine shops, foundries and innovation hubs produce the materials and components that make our submarines silent, our ships survivable and our sailors and marines unstoppable.’” WANE: Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addresses defense summit in Fort Wayne “Secretary of the Navy John Phelan called Indiana the ‘quiet giant’ of the defense industryand said the future depended on people who manufacture things, imploring Indiana companies to continue growing both their workforce and capacity.” 12 WBOY: Northeast Indiana Emerges as Nexus of America’s Defense Industry “As national defense leaders, policymakers, and industry executives convene in Fort Wayne for the 4th Annual Defense Summit, Northeast Indiana is reaffirming its role as one of the center of innovation and production in America’s defense ecosystem.” “Home to major defense and aerospace employers including L3Harris, BAE Systems, Raytheon, and Ultra Electronics, Northeast Indiana companies are at the forefront of designing and producing the advanced technologies that keep America safe—ranging from encrypted radios and tactical vehicles to advanced sensors, command and control systems, and components for space and missile defense.” “Since 2020, businesses in the region have been awarded nearly $2.5 billion in Department of Defense contracts, reflecting the federal government’s growing confidence in the region’s ability to deliver critical capabilities faster and more efficiently than anywhere else in the country.” “With more than 95,000 skilled manufacturing workers and 4,500 engineers, Northeast Indiana delivers high-quality innovation at lower cost to taxpayers. The region also benefits from proximity to six of the nation’s top 15 engineering schools—within 225 miles—and graduates more than 10,000 students annually through the Northeast Indiana Colleges and Universities Network, ensuring a robust pipeline of defense and aerospace talent.” WBOI: SecDef visits Fort Wayne to address local defense Contractors “Fort Wayne has a long history of manufacturing and innovation in the defense industry, from companies such as BAE Systems to L3Harris, which is involved in Trump’s missile shield program.” “Banks spoke of the region’s deep ties to the defense industry—including L3Harris, which is involved in Trump’s space-based missile defense system. Other companies, such as Ultra Maritime, in Columbia City, provide technology to the U.S. Navy.” “Banks recognized a number of leaders in the defense industry in his opening remarks, andpredicted Indiana would have a growing role to play in the ‘modernization’ of the U.S. military.” WOWO: Hegseth: Warrior Ethos, Innovation, Readiness Key to U.S. Defense “Highlighting Indiana’s critical role, Hegseth pointed to NSA Crane, the nation’s third-largest naval installation, as a hub for innovation in drone warfare, hypersonics, and microelectronics. ‘Crane embodies the warrior ethos committed to unwavering dedication and readiness in the face of any challenge,’ he said.” “Hegseth praised Senator Banks for his support, saying, ‘You learn real quick in Washington who your real friends are…Senator Banks is an incredible ally who we know we can call when tough decisions have to be made.’” The summit focused on strengthening America’s defense industrial base, supporting warfighters, and ensuring the United States remains the strongest military power in the world. 21ALIVE NEWS: Hegseth addresses Northeast Indiana defense contractors about military prioirites “Northeast Indiana is home to major national security manufacturers including L3Harris, Raytheon and BAE Systems.” “Hegseth mentioned new initiatives that could affect local defense contractors. ‘We are only going to do business with industry partners that share our priority on speed and volume above all else. We are willing to surge American made, American made, manufacturing at the speed of ingenuity to deliver rapidly and reliably for our war fighters,’ he said.” “Banks said the visit was beneficial for the state. ‘For the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to come and learn more about what we’re already doing in Fort Wayne and Indiana, it’s really good for our state to create more jobs and do even more on the defense front,’ Banks said.” WIBC: War and Navy Secretaries Praise Indiana Defense Role “President Trump is rebuilding and remaking the U.S. military into the world’s strongest fighting force,” Banks said. ‘Secretary of War Hegseth is leading the effort daily to achieve peace through strength.’” Hegseth added that President Trump has injected “good ol’ fashioned Indiana common sense” back to the Pentagon’s approach.” “Secretary Phelan focused on the urgency of naval readiness, describing the state as the ‘quiet giant’ of the defense industry. He warned that the world demands a “combat credible naval force,” especially as ‘China’s unprecedented military buildup’ poses a direct threat.” “[Sec. Phelan] implored Indiana manufactures to continue growing their workforce and capacity, saying that the state is a ‘key engine room’ for advanced systems used by the Navy, including at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, which is in Crane, Indiana.” Daily Caller: Sen. Banks Pins Long-Deserved Purple Heart on Iraq Veteran After Nearly Two Decades “Republican Indiana Sen. Jim Banks presented the Purple Heart to former Army National Guard Specialist Robert Drudy on Tuesday, almost 20 years after his injury in the line of duty.” “Banks presented him the award alongside Fort Wayne, Ind. Mayor Sharon Tucker on Veterans Day at the fourth annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit.” “From time to time, we hear about mistakes that the military has made, recognitions that weren’t properly given, and we do everything that we can on team Banks to make sure that we right those wrongs and make up for it,” Banks said in his remarks. “I couldn’t be prouder that today we get to provide this Purple Heart to Fort Wayne resident and former Army Specialist Robert Drudy.” WANE: Tucker, Banks award veteran with Purple Heart to kickoff Northeast Indiana Defense Summit, celebrate Veterans Day The fourth annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit kicked off in Fort Wayne, not with one of its premier speakers like President Trump’s Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, but with a little-known local man, crowned as a hero. 21ALIVE NEWS: Army Veteran awarded Purple Heart during Northeast Indiana Defense Summit An Army veteran was presented with a Purple Heart during the Northeast Indiana Defense Summit on Tuesday. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker presented him with the award. Banks said it was “an incredible honor” to present Drudy with the award. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://baird.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2505,Congressman Baird Votes to End Democrat Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,James R. Baird,B001307,baird.house.gov,baird,https://baird.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) released the following statement after voting to reopen the government following the 43-day-long Democrat Shutdown: “Finally, the Democrat Shutdown is over. I first voted to keep the government open on September 19th, when the House passed a clean continuing resolution. Democrats repeatedly voted to shut down the government to push their $1.5 trillion wish list of demands, including health care for illegal immigrants. Democrats’ political games needlessly hurt millions of working families in Indiana and across the country. The Democrat shutdown paused critical funding for farmers during harvest and caused chaos and increased safety risks for travelers at our airports while air traffic controllers worked without pay and struggled to feed their families. While this bill is by no means a perfect solution, my immediate concern has been reopening the government, funding essential programs, and paying hardworking federal employees. What’s more, passing a continuing resolution alongside three appropriations bills underscores that Congress is working to restore regular order. These appropriations bills will ensure veterans’ health care services are funded, as well as critical housing and infrastructure for our troops and their families. I look forward to President Trump signing this bill quickly to reopen our government, end this historic Democrat-inflicted shutdown, and allow Congress to continue working on behalf of the American people.” ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-houchin-statement-passage-continuing-resolution-fund-government,Rep. Houchin Statement on Passage of Continuing Resolution to Fund the Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Erin Houchin,H001093,houchin.house.gov,houchin,https://houchin.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) released the following statement after the House passed the Senate’s Continuing Resolution to fund the government: “Tonight, thanks to Republicans in Congress, the Continuing Resolution to fund the government through January 30 is headed to President Trump’s desk. This agreement also includes three, year-long appropriations bills that fully fund Agriculture, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and the Legislative Branch. For 42 days, Democrats held the American people hostage over a $1.5 trillion liberal wish list, inflicting pain on millions for nothing more than political theater. Federal workers, law enforcement officers, and air traffic controllers went without pay. Families who rely on WIC and SNAP saw reduced or delayed assistance. This agreement will finally bring relief to millions of Americans. Republicans in the House voted to fund the government on September 19. Democrats voted to shut it down and voted 14 times after that to keep it closed. To be clear: it was only one political party that inflicted harm across our country. The American people know the Democrats used them as leverage in a failed attempt to keep lining the pockets of insurance companies. I came to Washington to fight for Indiana, not to play politics. I’m proud of my Republican colleagues and I appreciate the handful of Democrats who supported ending this madness. It’s time to reopen the federal government and get America back to work.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=189,Messmer Celebrates the End of the Democrat-Led Schumer Government Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Mark B. Messmer,M001233,messmer.house.gov,messmer,https://messmer.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) issued the following statement praising the passage of the House of Representatives’ bill to reopen the federal government after 43 days during which Democrats voted repeatedly to keep it shuttered: “Without any regard for the struggles and dire needs of the American people, Democrats shut down the federal government, and brought to a halt paychecks and important benefits families depend upon,” said Rep. Messmer. “In their quest to push radical leftist ideals, Democrats punished some of our country’s most vulnerable. Hoosiers deserve a reliable government they can depend upon and I am relieved that we are finally back in business so our brave troops can get paid and Food Stamp funding can resume. I hope and pray that Democrats don’t do this to our country ever again.” Rep. Messmer has consistently voted to fund the government by supporting September’s clean Continuing Resolution legislation, as well as the most recent bill, which will deliver backpay for the troops, federal workers, and SNAP funding beneficiaries who rely upon these critical safety nets. To read more about how Rep. Messmer is working for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here. ###",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-of-the-navy-john-phelan-speaks-at-the-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit/,Secretary of the Navy John Phelan Speaks at the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fort Wayne, IN – Today, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan addressed the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit hosted by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.). Secretary Phelan underscored Indiana’s vital role in rebuilding America’s naval strength through modernization, workforce development, and manufacturing readiness. Click the image above to view Secretary Phelan’s full Address or watch it here (1:13:00 – 1:58:25) Key Remarks: Secretary Phelan: “We are rebuilding the fleet because the threat environment demands it. We are living through one of the most dangerous strategic environments in modern history. Warfare is being reshaped in real-time by drones, AI, autonomy, machine learning, and rapid iteration. A time where warfighters, coders, and manufacturers adapt capabilities midfight – and in some cases midday – to change the enemy’s calculus. The ability to adapt and iterate is no longer a competitive edge. It’s a key determinate of victory.” Secretary Phelan: “We face a world characterized by China’s unprecedented military buildup and the direct threat it poses to the United States and its allies.” Secretary Phelan: “This is a world that demands a combat credible naval force. Ready to fight, ready to win, anytime, anywhere, against any adversary.” Secretary Phelan: “For too long, our shipbuilding enterprise has been slowed by red tape, supply chain fragility and a shrinking workforce…that era is ending…[President Trump] armed us with the authorities, resources, and urgency to modernize the fleet.” Secretary Phelan: “Shipbuilding and readiness remain the department and my top priorities. We are driving shipbuilding initiatives to increase tonnage, strengthen allied production lines, and attack the longstanding chokepoints that have dragged our enterprise behind the power curve. We’re strengthening our shipyards across the country, but also the thousands of suppliers in states like Indiana who make the parts, forge the steel, and design the systems that keep the fleet alive. Every weld, every bolt, every circuit board built here contributes to sailors and marines’ safety halfway around the world.” Secretary Phelan: “The Navy’s modernization effort isn’t just about ships, it’s about ensuring that when conflict comes – and history tells us it always does – we are ready on Day 1…That’s where manufacturing powerhouses like Indiana come in. You’re the quiet giants of America’s defense industrial base. Your machine shops, foundries, and innovation hubs, produce the materials and components that make our submarines silent, our ships survivable, and our sailors and marines unstoppable. This state turns university pipelines and veteran talent into high-tech power systems and mission components at scale. Indiana isn’t just America’s crossroads, it’s one of our key engine rooms. Nowhere is that clearer than Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane.100 square miles, the third largest naval installation by area, and a critical strategic center for the Department of Navy, Crane drives expeditionary warfare, electronic warfare, hypersonics, and advanced sensing. It’s a crown jewel for microelectronics and trusted hardware, and a crucial pillar of the Navy’s leg of the nuclear triad.” Secretary Phelan: “Rebuilding America’s Navy is not a Navy project, it’s a national imperative. Together, we will prove that the might of our fleet is built on the might of our people. That freedom of the seas depends on the freedom to build. And when America decides to lead, no rival on earth can match our ingenuity or will.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-of-war-pete-hegseth-addresses-the-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit/,Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Addresses the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"Fort Wayne, IN – Today, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth addressed the 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit hosted by Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.). Secretary Hegseth outlined how we will rebuild America’s Arsenal of Freedom by restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military, and reestablishing deterrence. Secretary Hegseth highlighted Indiana’s critical role in revitalizing the defense industrial base to achieve this mission. Click the image above to view Secretary Hegseth’s full address or watch it here (26:12 – 1:00:00) Key Remarks: Secretary Hegseth: If you’re putting America First, and the roadmap is peace through strength, the third ingredient President Trump has injected is good old fashioned Indiana common sense. Common sense is back at the White House, and it’s back at the Pentagon. Common sense means putting warfighting, lethality as the Senator mentioned, training, discipline, accountability, readiness at the forefront of everything we do at the Department of War. Secretary Hegseth: As the President points out, and he’s right, we have the strongest, most capable, most lethal military in the world, full stop. No one can touch us. But if we’re going to maintain that, and put the best weapons, ships, and aircrafts in the hands of our men and women, we’ve got a lot of work to do here in Indiana and across the country to get things on time and at scale. Secretary Hegseth: When I think of rebuilding the military, we think of places like NSA Crane right here in Indiana, the 3rd largest naval installation in the world. I can’t lie, the first time I met with Senator Banks, I said ‘wait, the third largest naval installation in the world is in Indiana? Okay,’ but then when you add it all up, look at the industry and look at the history, it all makes sense. Then you look at the capability of what’s produced here, Crane embodies the warrior ethos committed to unwavering dedication and readiness in the face of any challenge. Over time, it’s become a go to on drone warfare, hypersonics, and microelectronics, rapidly transitioning these innovations to the warfighter. We’re going to need more places like Crane, and we’re going to need them quickly. Secretary Hegseth: For far too long, our department has been bogged down by burdensome and inefficient processes, paralyzed by impossible risk thresholds and requirements, and distracted by agendas that have nothing to do with warfighting. Every dollar squandered on redundancy, bureaucracy, and waste is a dollar that could be used for something meaningful. Secretary Hegseth: The objective is rebuilding the arsenal of freedom. American industry and its innovative spirit are begging to be unleashed to solve our most complex and dangerous warfighting problems. Secretary Hegseth: After decades of securing other people’s borders halfway across the world, we’re finally securing our own border…We’re also taking the fight on the deterrence front to the cartels. My advice to foreign terrorist organizations: Do Not Get in A Boat. If you’re trafficking drugs to poison the American People and we know you’re from a designated terrorist organization, you’re a foreign terrorist and trafficker, we will find you and we will kill you. Secretary Hegseth: We’re reestablishing deterrence, as the Senator mentioned, in the Indo-Pacific and around the world…we are deterring China’s influence around the world. Secretary Hegseth: We’re restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding our military, reestablishing deterrence, and we have a President of the United States who has the backs of our warfighters. Secretary Hegseth: In this new era for the defense industrial base, we’re going to take risks, we’re going to optimize for speed, we’re going to compete, and we’re going to scale. Secretary Hegseth: What you have in Indiana, in the good Senator. Senator Banks is an incredible ally who we know we can call when tough decisions have to be made or he has to stand there shoulder-to-shoulder with us or help explain the reforms that we’re undertaking. It’s critical. You learn real quick in Washington who your real friends are, who will actually go to bat, and who’s core is grounded in what needs to be done in that moment to advance America First and peace through strength. Senator Banks, I want to thank you for being that ally to us at the Department of War from Day 1. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-resolution-honoring-the-ss-edmund-fitzgerald-passes-the-senate/,Young Resolution Honoring the SS Edmund Fitzgerald Passes the Senate,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – On the 50th anniversary of the loss of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, the United States Senate passed a resolution – cosponsored by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) – recognizing the 29 crew members who died during the shipwreck, which occurred during one of the worst storms ever recorded on the Great Lakes. “Fifty years ago, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank in the Great Lakes, tragically ending the lives of all onboard. Our resolution honors those who were tragically lost and reaffirms our commitment to the safety of America’s maritime workforce,” said Senator Young. Young introduced the resolution with Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-votes-for-senate-bill-to-end-federal-government-shutdown/,Young Votes for Senate Bill to End Federal Government Shutdown,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) issued the following statement after voting for legislation that would end the current federal government shutdown: “Over the past 40 days, I have said over and over again that Hoosiers didn’t send me to Congress to shut down the government. I am frustrated that this shutdown has dragged on this long and negatively affected our country in so many ways. I am grateful for all of the dedicated federal workers, such as our service members and air traffic controllers, who continued to work throughout the shutdown. I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this bill and get it to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law. It’s time to get back to work on all of the important issues facing our country.” The bill includes a continuing resolution to reopen the federal government until January 30, 2026, along with full-year appropriations bill for Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, and the Legislative Branch. The temporary stopgap will allow Congress to continue working toward full-year bills for the remaining federal agencies. The legislation passed the Senate 60 to 40 and now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. If the legislation passes the House, it would be sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Over the past six weeks, Young voted 15 times for a clean bill that would fund and reopen the government, but Senate Democrats blocked the first 14 attempts.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-gain-ai-act/,Senator Banks Introduces GAIN AI Act,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the GAIN AI Act. This legislation creates an America-First right of first refusal to ensure American customers are served by our cutting-edge technology before foreign adversaries. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) are original cosponsors of the bill. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “The GAIN AI Act makes sure we use American-made technology to strengthen our own economy and security before sending it to adversaries overseas.” Key Provisions of the GAIN AI Act are: Prevent the export of advanced artificial intelligence chips to arms embargoed countries if there is unmet demand from American companies. Strengthen national security and technological competitiveness by ensuring U.S. companies have a “right of first refusal” to acquire these chips. Promotes U.S. technology dominance by allowing trusted American companies (such as large cloud service providers and chip operators) to move or operate advanced AI chips abroad without triggering full export control licensing, as long as they meet stringent security and ownership criteria. Full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-column-its-time-to-make-american-ships-again/,YOUNG COLUMN: It’s Time to Make American Ships Again,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"The following column by U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) was published in The Ripon Forum’s Veterans Day Edition 2025. America’s rise from 13 colonies to the most powerful nation on Earth was due, in large measure, to our dominance at sea. Our maritime power came not only from having a powerful Navy, but also from possessing a strong and capable commercial fleet. From our founding, America’s merchant ships carried raw materials and goods around the globe, generating great wealth for our nation and establishing secure supply chains. Today, an overwhelming amount of the goods that fuel our economy still arrive by sea. However, unlike the early days of our nation, hardly any of these goods are traveling on American ships. More and more, they are traveling on ships built, and increasingly registered, in China. This change is the result of decades of neglect. Over time, the U.S. stopped prioritizing the importance of shipbuilding to our economic and national security and failed to invest in our maritime industry. As a result, this sector eroded, shipyards were abandoned, the shipping workforce was depleted, and America’s commercial fleet is down to a mere 80 vessels. Meanwhile, across the Pacific, China charted a different course. Through strategic government investment — and illegal market manipulation — China built the largest commercial fleet in the world: approximately 5,500 oceangoing vessels. In a world without security threats — where we could trust China and its ambitions this wouldn’t necessarily be cause for concern. But that’s not the world we live in. China will stop at nothing to exploit America’s security vulnerabilities, undermine our relationships with trusted allies, and bully developing nations for its own gain. The supply chain interruptions we experienced during COVID would pale in comparison to a Chinese boycott of our ports. More alarmingly, in time of war, America lacks sufficient shipyard and industrial capacity to repair or build new warships. China understands this, which undermines our military’s objective to deter future conflict. It’s time to reverse course, return to our roots, and make American ships again. To begin this rebuilding effort, I introduced the SHIPS for America Act with Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ). This landmark legislation will revitalize U.S. shipbuilding, rebuild America’s shipyard industrial base, support nationwide workforce development in this industry, and ensure we have the fleet we need to reclaim maritime dominance. Our bill is needed to bolster our supply chains, strengthen our warfighting capabilities, and allow us to keep pace with China. We are fortunate to have a President who understands the urgent need to address our rusted reality. Earlier this year, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance.” The SHIPS Act, which mirrors multiple aspects of the President’s executive order, would provide the funding and authorities to revitalize the maritime industry, while also putting up barriers against China’s continued efforts to dismantle our shipping economy. Together, the SHIPS Act and the President’s executive order will lead to a shipbuilding revival across the country, and my home state is ready play a key role. Along the Ohio River, southern Indiana communities have a long history of shipbuilding success. For years, Hoosiers working at the shipyards built commercial ships, including steamboats, barges, and towboats. When World War II broke out, these shipyards joined the war effort and produced the Navy’s oceangoing ships at record-breaking levels. But when the war ended, America stopped producing ships and quickly became outpaced by foreign competition. Indiana’s once thriving shipyards are now mainly closed, except for Corn Island in southern Indiana along the Ohio River. I recently toured Corn Island Shipyard to learn more about its operations, Hoosier workforce, and manufacturing of custom barges. The passage of the SHIPS Act would increase opportunities for little known shipyards like Corn Island across the nation. Hoosier steel manufacturers could benefit from the increased need for steel to build these new ships. Small component manufacturers across the state would likely see additional demand. Since the bill’s introduction, numerous Hoosier small businesses have shared how the SHIPS Act could lead to more growth or opportunities for their workers. Further, as one of the top agriculture states, Indiana relies heavily on exports. If our economy depends on goods carried aboard Chinese-flagged ships, our supply chain is at the mercy of China. But, if we increase our own shipping capabilities, we will have more American ships exporting American goods. This will increase confidence and drive down costs for both our farmers and consumers. This is the promise of the shipbuilding revival – revitalized shipyards, more good- paying American jobs, security from economic coercion, and enhanced naval readiness for a potential conflict with our greatest adversary. It’s time to Make American Ships Again. Todd Young is the senior U.S. Senator for Indiana. He is a Naval Academy grad and former Marine. He serves on the U.S. Senate Committees on Finance; Commerce, Science & Transportation; Small Business and Entrepreneurship; and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-statement-on-war-powers-resolution/,Young Statement on War Powers Resolution,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) released the following statement regarding today’s Senate vote on the Caribbean War Powers Resolution: “Since the last Senate vote on this issue, I’ve received multiple briefings from the Administration and consulted with outside experts about the legality of recent strikes in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. I am grateful to senior Administration officials for those briefings. Based on the information I have received, I have a greater appreciation for the legal rationale behind our service members executing these strikes, and I do not believe this resolution is necessary or appropriate at this time. “However, my vote today is not an endorsement of the Administration’s current course in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. As a matter of policy, I am troubled by many aspects and assumptions of this operation and believe it is at odds with the majority of Americans who want the U.S. military less entangled in international conflicts. “The strategic objective of militarizing a ‘War on Drugs’ is unclear at best and, while not currently desired or contemplated, these operations could conceivably lead to direct military conflict with Venezuela or even operations inside the United States. While no one has declared war on Venezuela, the creeping expansion of executive war-making—under presidents of both parties—without congressional input or oversight is dangerous. Additionally, consultation and a decision by Congress enables an open, democratic assessment of how a president envisions connecting the means of military action to a clear, strategic outcome that is in the national interest, not to grandstand or create 535 commanders-in-chief, but rather to monitor and review the activities of the executive so we don’t repeat the foreign policy mistakes of this century. The Constitution is clear: Congress, not the President, holds the power to declare war, not as a constitutional nicety, but rather as a reflection of the national will. “The American people deserve a more transparent strategy – not ad hoc military maneuvers conducted without a clearly-defined objective. The Administration must keep the people’s representatives better informed if and before this situation escalates in any way.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-johnson-and-bartholomew,Congressman Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Johnson and Bartholomew Counties,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours on Thursday, November 6, to assist Hoosiers in Johnson and Bartholomew Counties. During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Rep. Shreve’s staff for help resolving issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA). “Our mobile office hours bring constituent services directly to communities across the Sixth District,” said Congressman Shreve. “If you’re having trouble with a federal agency, my team stands ready to help.” If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333. Mobile Office Hour Details: Johnson County Date: Thursday, November 6 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location: Franklin City Hall Council Chambers 70 E. Monroe St. Franklin, IN 46131 Bartholomew County Date: Thursday, November 6 Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Location: Columbus City Hall Conference Room 4 123 Washington St. Columbus, IN 47201",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/secretary-of-war-pete-hegseth-to-headline-4th-annual-northeast-indiana-defense-summit/,Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to Headline 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Today, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) announced that United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth will headline the 4th annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit in Fort Wayne on November 12th. Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.): “I am honored to host Secretary Hegseth at our 4th Annual Northeast Indiana Defense Summit. Secretary Hegseth recognizes the vital role Hoosiers play in strengthening America’s national security and military readiness. His leadership and commitment to our armed forces will help ensure Indiana remains a cornerstone of our nation’s defense industry.” Media advisory with further details to follow. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sen-banks-demands-action-to-end-unlawful-opt-program-protect-american-workers/,"Sen. Banks Demands Action to End Unlawful OPT Program, Protect American Workers",2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) sent a letter to White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem urging them to take action to end the unlawful Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The letter highlights how the OPT program—created without congressional authorization—has displaced American workers, particularly in STEM fields, by incentivizing employers to hire foreign labor instead of U.S. graduates. In part, the letter reads: “The OPT system incentivizes employers to pass over American graduates and hire foreign guest workers, especially in STEM fields—and that’s exactly what has happened. Today, one-third of computer science graduates and half of computer programming graduates are unemployed six months after graduation. Many large tech companies complain about a shortage of workers, but that could not be further from the truth. In 2023, American colleges graduated 134,000 American citizens or green card holders with computer science degrees. That same year, the federal government handed out work permits to 110,000 foreign guest workers in computer occupations.” Read more about the letter here. Read below or see the full text here. Dear Mr. Miller and Secretary Noem: I write to request that you take steps to end the unlawful Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This program was created by bureaucrats to evade immigration limits set by law, and it offers employers a tax break to replace American workers with foreign labor. OPT authorizes international students to work in the United States for up to one year after graduation for each degree they receive from an institution of higher education. STEM graduates are authorized to work in the U.S. for up to three years. The program is not authorized by Congress. It was established and has been maintained entirely by Deep State bureaucrats. Despite OPT’s lack of political legitimacy, it has dramatically reshaped America’s foreign guest worker program. Nearly 500,000 foreign workers hold OPT status and most of them work in STEM fields. More than one-third of international students in the United States have work authorization, primarily through OPT. There are nearly as many OPT holders as there are H-1B holders, yet OPT lacks even the minimal safeguards of the H-1B program. OPT permits are completely uncapped, lack a minimum wage floor, and come with no requirement that employers attempt to fill positions with American workers before hiring foreign workers. Employers actually get a 15% discount for hiring an OPT holder, as both employers and OPT workers are generally exempt from Social Security and Medicare taxes. The OPT system incentivizes employers to pass over American graduates and hire foreign guest workers, especially in STEM fields—and that’s exactly what has happened. Today, one-third of computer science graduates and half of computer programming graduates are unemployed six months after graduation. Many large tech companies complain about a shortage of workers, but that could not be further from the truth. In 2023, American colleges graduated 134,000 American citizens or green card holders with computer science degrees. That same year, the federal government handed out work permits to 110,000 foreign guest workers in computer occupations. Moreover, without vetting safeguards, OPT poses national security risks. One out of four OPT holders come from the People’s Republic of China. At Columbia University, where radicalism has become a public safety risk, nearly twenty percent of the student body holds an OPT permit. And when the Trump administration reviewed the visas of students involved in pro-Palestine protests or with criminal histories, it found it necessary to terminate OPT permits from multiple universities. I have introduced legislation to eliminate OPT so that more American students can graduate with dignity and enter the workforce with good-paying jobs, and I am very grateful for President Trump’s efforts to reform the H-1B program. But regulators created OPT, so regulators can end it, too. If a complete reversal of OPT is not possible, the program should at the very least be capped and limited to only the best and brightest students, with wage requirements that match the salaries of the best and brightest American tech graduates. A wage floor between $90,000-$115,000, forexample, would match the mean salary for computer and information sciences graduates in the class of 2023. Corporations should also be required to follow a set procedure for attempting to hire American graduates before hiring an OPT worker and should pay the same Medicare and Social Security taxes on those workers that they pay for their other employees. Finally, OPT applicants should be vetted for their commitment to the nation’s founding principles and the American way of life, and no permits should be given to students from foreign adversaries. Building greater opportunity for American graduates requires ending programs that encourage employers to displace talented American workers and seek foreign labor instead. That is why I urge you to end the unlawful OPT program, or reform and limit the program to ensure that employers put American workers first. Our graduates, and the American people, deserve nothing less. Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your efforts to put America first. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-honors-veteran-small-business-owners/,Young Honors Veteran Small Business Owners,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"Last night, the United States Senate unanimously passed a resolution led by U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) designating November 3-7, 2025, as National Veterans Small Business Week. “I’m glad to be part of this resolution honoring our veterans and their businesses in our communities. This is one small way we can continue to express our gratitude for the sacrifices these Americans made for our country,” said Senator Young. Earlier this week, Young visited Brew Link Brewing, a veteran-run business in Indianapolis.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/jim-banks-named-americas-toughest-senator-on-immigration/,Jim Banks Named America’s Toughest Senator on Immigration,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Today, Immigration Accountability Project Action awarded Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) as the #1 U.S. Senator for immigration. IAP Action calculated the rankings based on the immigration-related bills introduced, cosponsored, and supported by members of Congress. Eligible legislation includes measures addressing legal immigration, nonimmigrant visa programs, border security, interior enforcement, and efforts to combat illegal immigration. Senator Banks earned the top ranking among all U.S. Senators for the 119th Congress. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Hoosiers sent me to the Senate to help President Trump secure the border and put America first. I’m honored to get this recognition and I’ll keep fighting every day to keep our country safe and strong.” Senator Banks’ Key Immigration Legislative Items here: Visa Overstay Penalties Act of 2025 Border Security is National Security Act Putting American Students First Act End Unaccountable Amnesty Act Nuclear Family Priority Act American Tech Workforce Act of 2025 Read more about it here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shreve-announces-mobile-office-hours-rush-and-shelby-counties,Congressman Shreve Announces Mobile Office Hours in Rush and Shelby Counties,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,IN,Jefferson Shreve,S001229,shreve.house.gov,shreve,https://shreve.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Greenwood, IN – Congressman Jefferson Shreve (IN-06) announced today that his constituent services team will hold mobile office hours on Tuesday, November 4, to assist Hoosiers in Rush and Shelby Counties. During these events, constituents can meet directly with members of Rep. Shreve’s staff for help resolving issues with federal agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Social Security Administration (SSA). If constituents are unable to attend these events, Congressman Shreve also maintains a district office in Greenwood, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office can be reached by phone at (317) 399-3333. Mobile Office Hour Details: Rush County Date: Tuesday, November 4 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Location: Rushville City Hall Council Chambers — 2nd Floor 330 N. Main Street, Suite 200 Rushville, IN 46173 Shelby County Date: Tuesday, November 4 Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Location: Shelbyville City Hall Council Chambers 44 West Washington Street",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-banks-introduces-legislation-to-provide-transparency-to-american-investors/,Senator Banks Introduces Legislation to Provide Transparency to American Investors,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Jim Banks,B001299,www.banks.senate.gov,banks,https://www.banks.senate.gov/news/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C, – Yesterday, Senator Jim Banks (R-Ind.) introduced the Providing Complete Information to Retirement Investors Act. This bill would require retirement plans to help workers better understand their investment options by clearly explaining the difference between professionally managed funds and self-directed investments. Additionally, it would explain the risks to participants when they move money into non-fiduciary options. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) is an original cosponsor of this bill. Senator Jim Banks: (R-Ind.): “Americans work hard for their retirement, and their money should be working for them, not to fund the Left’s woke agenda. This bill makes sure retirees know exactly where their savings are going so they can invest with confidence and common sense.” Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.): “Fiduciaries’ sole responsibility is to prioritize what is best for the workers’ hard-earned savings. These pro-worker, pro-family bills protect millions of Americans’ retirement savings from political ideology.” Key Provisions of the Providing Complete Information to Retirement Investors Act are: Requires employer-sponsored defined contribution plans to explain to participants the difference between choosing investments selected by Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) fiduciaries and those self-selected through a brokerage window. Requires ERISA-governed plans to provide a notice to investors each time they allocate money into or out of a brokerage window that such investments were not selected by a fiduciary and may result in lower returns. Full text of the bill can be found here. Background: In recent years, left-wing investment firms have mismanaged the hard-earned retirement savings of millions of Americans through so-called “Environmental, Social, Governance” (ESG) plans. ESG funds intentionally prioritize left-wing social priorities over business fundamentals when they select investments. Several academic studies have found that ESG funds result in lower returns for investors. Some ESG funds have sought greater business by soliciting 401(k) investors to self-direct their retirement savings through a “brokerage window.” This poses increased risk for investors, as investment plans selected through a brokerage window do not have a fiduciary responsibility to look out for the investor’s best interests. This bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives in September 2023 as part of the Roll Back ESG To Increase Retirement Earnings Act. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/young-colleagues-statement-on-violence-in-sudan/,"Young, Colleagues Statement on Violence in Sudan",2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,IN,Todd Young,Y000064,www.young.senate.gov,toddyoung,https://www.young.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) released the following statement on the violence in Sudan: “We are horrified by the ongoing civil war in Sudan, and the genocide in Darfur perpetuated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias. The RSF’s long-predicted ethnically targeted assault on the civilian population of El-Fasher makes clear that the United States must consider the designation of the RSF as a potential Foreign Terrorist Organization or Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization, while establishing clear authorizations and mechanisms for the continued delivery of humanitarian aid. “Now in its third year, Sudan’s civil war has devastated the country, shattered Sudanese society, and destabilized the region. Both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have committed atrocities against civilians and pursued a zero-sum war at any cost. Foreign backers of the RSF and SAF–including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Russia, Iran, China and governments in the immediate region–have fueled and profited from the conflict and legitimized the monsters destroying Sudan. “This war poses grave risk to the United States. Sudan’s location on the Red Sea is vital for global trade and energy flows. The country’s history as a haven for terrorists like Osama Bin Laden, its facilitation of vast illicit flow of arms and gold, and the movement of fighters and civilians across its borders threaten U.S. national security and economic stability. Achieving a sustainable ceasefire, ensuring unhindered humanitarian access, and securing safe corridors for civilians across Sudan is paramount. The warring parties and their foreign backers must work with the United States and its partners to end this catastrophic war immediately. “The U.S.-led “Quad” diplomacy (with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE) is an important step that requires all parties to engage in good faith negotiations. Ensuring meaningful participation by Sudanese civilians will strengthen future efforts and give legitimacy to any lasting peace.” Background The civil war in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023, has plunged the country into one of the world’s worst and most underreported humanitarian crises. The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (“Hemedti”), is carrying out genocide and other mass atrocities against non-Arab communities and perceived opponents—continuing the same brutality they inflicted as the Janjaweed during the first Darfur genocide in 2003. The SAF and allied militias—including entrenched Islamist elements—have likewise targeted civilians through starvation, chemical attacks, and other atrocities, further destabilizing the region.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z