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://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7299,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on Funding to Kansas Strengthening Rural Health Care,2025-12-30,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement following the Trump administration’s announcement that gives nearly $222 million to Kansas as part of the Rural Health Transformation Program: “As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee I was proud to be involved in the conversations that led to including these investments into the One Big Beautiful Bill, and I’m thrilled to see this funding being given to rural health care nationwide, and particularly the $222 million being given to Kansas,” Congressman Estes said. “Rural health care is one of the largest challenges that Kansas faces, and this investment will make a significant difference across the board. Your zip code should never determine your access to reliable and quality health care. I’m pleased to see this historic initiative and look forward to seeing the differences that these funds make in Kansas.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7291,Congressman Estes Releases Statement on House Passage of Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Budget Committee, released the following statement after House Republicans passed the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act – a package of reforms that would lower premium costs for all Americans, expand access to affordable coverage, and increase transparency to drive down prices across the health care system. “I voted for this legislation knowing that House Republicans are choosing the right and most sensical way – decreasing health care premiums by 11%. Republicans are addressing the health care crisis in America that Democrats themselves created through Obamacare,” Congressman Estes said. “The law Democrats passed that they insisted would make health care affordable couldn’t be more untrue. The Unaffordable Care Act led to doubled premiums and deductibles, and choices decreased for Americans nationwide. Republicans are committed to solving this crisis, and I’m honored to vote for this legislation alongside my colleagues.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=C379D510-3516-412F-943B-FC5C0D7BE2D7,Sen. Moran Applauds $222 Million for Kansas Rural Hospitals from First Year of CMS Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announcement that Kansas will receive $222 million for the first year of the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. This allotment will be awarded for 2026, the first year of the five-year program. The RHT was created in the Reconciliation Bill to direct CMS to work with states to identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers. “The Rural Health Transformation Program is a significant investment in rural health care and will help improve outcomes for struggling hospitals, invest in new technology and bolster rural communities,” said Sen. Moran. “I worked with my colleagues to establish this fund, and these resources will now be tailored to meet the individual needs of rural health care in each state with no match required by the state. I look forward to working with our health care leaders and state leaders to make certain Kansas providers are able to use these resources to improve the long-term success of rural providers.” Sen. Moran helped establish the rural provider fund as a part of the Reconciliation Bill, which was signed into law by the President on July 4. On July 3, Sen. Moran joined a town hall with more than 100 Kansas hospital leaders to outline changes made in the Reconciliation Bill for rural hospitals specifically, highlighting the Rural Health Transformation Program. Items to note: Funds from the RHT program will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from Fiscal Year 2026 through Fiscal Year 2030. Kansas will receive one of the highest amounts from the RHT program, exceeded by only five other states. The funding requires no state match; it is a federal-only investment aimed at helping to improve outcomes for struggling healthcare providers. This is a one-time application with no renewal required, making certain states and providers have access to the funding over the next five years without needing to reapply. In collaboration with CMS, states submitted detailed rural health transformation plans for improving access to care. CMS will monitor implementation in order to make certain resources are being targeted to best support struggling providers and improve health outcomes in rural communities. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=4DA43F2D-C747-4AE0-A481-A224962CFDFF,"Sens. Moran, Cortez Masto Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen America’s Energy Supply Chain",2025-12-26,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s energy supply chain, reducing the risk of dangerous power outages and helping to meet increasing energy demand. The Electric Supply Chain Act would require the Secretary of Energy to conduct regular assessments of electric consumption trends and vulnerabilities in the electric energy supply chain, which includes distribution lines, transformers and other equipment required to connect energy generators to energy consumers. “Demand for energy is continuing to grow in Kansas and across the country as power needs increase for housing, business and transportation,” said Sen. Moran. “As demand for energy expands, so does the importance of securing our energy supply chains. It is critical that the Department of Energy is tracking trends in our nation’s energy consumption to recognize vulnerabilities and protect national energy security.” “Nevada’s electric grid is experiencing unprecedented levels of demand,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “It is our responsibility to help ensure that our supply chains are secure and capable of meeting growing energy demand to prevent power outages or other disruptions to daily life. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will ensure the Department of Energy is collecting information needed to keep electricity flowing throughout the country.” The legislation would require the Department of Energy to conduct regular reviews of the electric energy supply chain with the following information: Efforts and opportunities to strengthen, secure and supply electric energy supply chains; Any trends, risks and vulnerabilities in the supply, demand and availability of components for or related to transmitting electricity; National security and energy security considerations for strengthening, securing and expanding such supply chains; Barriers to expanding and manufacturing transmission components and the processing of critical minerals; Domestic policies that would prevent greater investment into such supply chains; Workforce challenges impacting such supply chains; and Recommendations to address the above challenges and risks to the electric energy supply chain. Full text of the legislation can be found here. Similar legislation led by Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH-05) recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation is endorsed by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM); National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO); Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE); and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). “Manufacturers thank Senator Cortez Masto and Senator Moran for introducing the Senate companion to the Electric Supply Chain Act,” said Chris Phalen, NAM Vice President of Domestic Policy. “Their leadership underscores the bipartisan commitment to strengthening America’s competitiveness and keeping our economy growing. Manufacturers are making significant investments in the domestic production of components that are helping to maintain and modernize our grid, and this bill will help ensure those efforts are matched by smart federal oversight and strategic insight. We urge the Senate to continue this momentum and advance this legislation as part of the broader push for comprehensive permitting reform and grid modernization that will strengthen America’s energy and AI dominance.” “America’s grid is foundational to reindustrializing our economy and advancing U.S. leadership in twenty-first century technologies,” said Avery Ash, SAFE CEO. “Energy-intensive industries are central to American global competitiveness, including critical mineral processing, smelting, automotive manufacturing, and AI computing. The analysis required by this bill will be valuable in enabling strategies to secure our grid component supply chains from foreign adversaries and expand our grid to meet future electricity demand.” “The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) applauds Senators Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) for their introduction of the Electric Supply Chain Act, marking a swift and encouraging response to House passage of the bill earlier this month,” said Peter Ferrell, NEMA Senior Director of Government Relations. “By requiring regular reports on the grid and its supply chains from the U.S. Department of Energy, this bill enables government and private sector partners to undertake more efficient and effective actions that will improve the reliability and affordability of the grid. NEMA appreciates the Senate's commitment to comprehensive oversight and stewardship of our nation's most critical infrastructure, and encourages bipartisan action on this legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=136799C1-5C8E-4A3E-B181-5F52F5F5FC03,"Sen. Moran, Colleagues Call on NTIA to Preserve States’ Ability to Use Broadband Infrastructure Funds as Congress Intended",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation – joined Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and their colleagues in urging Arielle Roth, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), to preserve the ability of states to use their remaining Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) funds consistent with congressional intent. The senators’ letter also requests NTIA to provide a public accounting of unspent BEAD funds for each state, clarification of NTIA’s current interpretation of allowable “non-deployment” uses and a timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds. Sens. Moran and Fischer were joined by Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Lisa Murkowski (R- Alaska), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). “We write to request the agency’s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program,” wrote the senators. “Under the latest BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity, many states likely will — or already do — have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship and redistribution of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide.” The full letter can be found here and below. Dear Administrator Roth: We write to request the agency’s attention to a major question emerging within the BEAD Program. Under the latest BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice, many states likely will — or already do — have leftover BEAD allocations. Given the intent of Congress that these resources be used to expand broadband access nationwide, we respectfully seek clarity on how NTIA will ensure proper stewardship of non-deployment funds to close the digital divide. Under the statutory framework established by Section 60102 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (47 U.S.C. § 1702), BEAD funding was intended first and foremost to fund broadband expansion: deployment to unserved locations, then underserved areas and connection of eligible community anchor institutions, before consideration of a broader set of permissible “non[1]deployment” uses to facilitate goals of the program. Congress granted this authority, along with the authority to redistribute unallocated funding amongst eligible entities, to maximize broadband infrastructure buildout – and thereby boost the economic productivity that connectivity brings to every corner of our country. The current status of non-deployment funding, however, appears unsettled. While NTIA’s recent guidance stated that allowable non-deployment purposes were still under review, we were encouraged by your public comments on December 2, 2025, stating that the agency is “operating under the assumption that the states will get to use their BEAD savings,” though noting that “nothing has been finalized.” Given these considerations, we respectfully request that NTIA provide: A public accounting of the BEAD funds for each state, including amounts already committed to deployment projects and amounts remaining unallocated or reserved for non-deployment uses; Clarification of NTIA’s current interpretation of allowable “non-deployment” uses in light of the June 2025 policy notice and consistent with authorized use of the funds under 47 U.S.C. § 1702 moving forward, and whether any previously approved non-deployment activities may remain eligible; and A timetable for revised guidance on non-deployment funds, along with any criteria or conditions under which non-deployment programs will be permitted or prioritized. In responding, we strongly urge NTIA to preserve states’ ability to use their non-deployment BEAD funds consistent with congressional intent and the bipartisan infrastructure law. We look forward to your timely reply and to ensuring that every BEAD dollar is used to connect Americans for generations to come, as Congress intended. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-welcomes-kansas-city-chiefs-kansas,Rep. Derek Schmidt Welcomes the Kansas City Chiefs to Kansas,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 22, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) released the following statement regarding the Kansas City Chiefs announcement today to move to Kansas: ""Keeping the Chiefs in Kansas City is a victory for our region that will reward generations to come. Welcome to Kansas! Go Chiefs!""",1,2026-04-25T05:38:36Z,2026-04-25T05:40:21Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=985E345A-876F-43F0-8209-35ECE6E48A7C,Sen. Moran Visits All 105 Kansas Counties in 2025,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"MANHATTAN, KS – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement after visiting Wabaunsee County, completing visits to all 105 Kansas counties in 2025: “Visiting each of the 105 counties in Kansas and having conversations with Kansans during these stops helps guide my efforts to represent our state in Washington, D.C. This year, I focused on visiting rural hospitals and was able to meet with nurses and doctors at 49 Kansas hospitals and hear directly from them about the unique challenges of delivering essential care in rural communities. Whether touring a hospital, speaking with veterans, stopping at local businesses or family farms, meeting students, or participating in civic groups, I appreciate Kansans sharing with me the challenges they are facing and their ideas to improve life in our state. I’m grateful for the kindness and hospitality shown to me during these visits, and I look forward to future opportunities to meet with and learn from those in communities in every corner of Kansas.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-introduces-bill-leverage-predictive-analytics-modernize-roadway,Rep. Mann Introduces Bill to Leverage Predictive Analytics to Modernize Roadway Safety,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the Roadway Safety Modernization Act, legislation to improve roadway safety and strengthen America’s supply chain by expanding eligibility for the Highway Safety Improvement Program, National Highway Freight Program, and the National Priority Safety Program. The bill aims to use predictive analytics, data-driven interventions and the adoption of innovative safety technologies to proactively identify and address transportation safety issues. “For too long, our transportation network has relied on systems to evaluate road safety after tragic accidents happen,” said Rep. Mann. “The Roadway Safety Modernization Act allows states and local communities to take a proactive, not reactive, posture by leveraging modern, data-driven tools to spot risks early on and make our roads safer. This is a practical, commonsense way to improve roadway safety, protect families, and strengthen the reliability of our transportation network without an additional dollar of federal spending.” “Too many families know the heartbreak that comes after a crash, and too often our transportation system only reacts once tragedy has already happened,"" said Rep. Davids. ""This bipartisan bill helps states use better data and modern technology to identify dangerous roadways before lives are lost. I’m grateful to work alongside Representative Mann on this commonsense effort to protect families and make sure people and goods can move safely and reliably across our country.” The Roadway Safety Modernization Act would improve roadway safety by: Modernizing America’s Federal-Aid Highway Safety Programs by incorporating new tools and systems, including predictive analysis platforms, telematics, and other proven methodologies to address safety risks proactively. Promoting Better Accountability, Transparency and Measurable Performance by directing the Secretary of Transportation to ensure that states maximize the efficacy of new safety investments and interventions. Protecting Consumer Data Privacy by ensuring tools and platforms rely on validated methods that protect personally identifiable information while leveraging insightful, anonymized data. The Roadway Safety Modernization Act is supported by the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety Coalition, the Safe Routes Partnership, the National Safety Council, the Kiefer Foundation, the Governors Highway Safety Association, the Association of Transportation Safety Information Professionals, StopDistractions.org, and BikeWalkKC. “The Roadway Safety Modernization Act represents the paradigm shift we’ve been waiting for—turning our reactive transportation system into a proactive one,” said Andrew Rogers, Executive Director of the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) Coalition. “By using data analytics and AI to see risk before it becomes loss, this legislation gives communities the tools to make their roads smarter and safer for everyone.” “Safe Routes Partnership applauds Senators Boozman and Padilla and Representatives Mann and Davids for introducing the bipartisan Roadway Safety Modernization Act,” said Marisa Jones, Managing Director of the Safe Routes Partnership. “Safe Routes to School is an evidence-based strategy proven to reduce roadway injuries and fatalities, and this legislation brings that same data-driven approach into the next generation. By enabling communities to use AI-powered predictive risk technology to identify and prevent crashes before they occur, Congress can help ensure every child can walk, bike, and roll to school safely. We’re proud to support forward-thinking solutions that will make school zones and neighborhoods safer nationwide.” ""The National Safety Council commends the efforts of Senators Boozman and Padilla and Reps. Mann and Davids to address the daily tragedy of death and serious injury on our roadways,"" said Lorraine Martin, CEO of the National Safety Council. ""By harnessing the power of technology, including lifesaving telematics, the Roadway Safety Modernization Act will enable states to prevent devastating traffic crashes through data-driven driver intervention programs and improved infrastructure design."" “The Kiefer Foundation applauds Senators Boozman and Padilla and Reps. Mann and Davids for their leadership in prioritizing roadway safety,” said Melissa Hamrick, Executive Director of The Kiefer Foundation. “By enabling policymakers and transportation decision-makers to take a proactive, data-driven approach to road design by leveraging technologies such as telematics, analytics, and artificial intelligence, the Roadway Safety Modernization Act is a major step towards ending distracted driving and other associated traffic deaths that impact thousands of families nationwide. The passage of this bill is essential to making America’s roads safer.” “The Governors Highway Safety Association strongly supports the Roadway Safety Modernization Act, which will help states harness the power of advanced data analytics to save lives,"" said Jonathan Adkins, Chief Executive Officer, GHSA. ""By modernizing how we collect, share, and analyze crash and roadway data, this legislation would empower state highway safety offices to better identify risk factors, target resources, and implement evidence-based strategies that prevent crashes and reduce serious injuries on our nation’s roads.” “The Association of Transportation Safety Information Professionals (ATSIP) recognizes the need for the introduction of the bipartisan Roadway Safety Modernization Act – a major step forward in adopting a proactive, data-driven approach to roadway planning,” said Tara Casanova Powell, Chief Executive Officer of ATSIP. “By equipping transportation decision-makers with predictive technologies, insightful tools, and anonymized data, states can utilize these novel data systems in conjunction with traditional traffic records data to pave the way for safer, smarter roads.” “StopDistractions.org is proud to support the Roadway Safety Modernization Act of 2025 as a critical step toward a smarter, safer future on our roads,"" said Jennifer Smith, CEO, StopDistractions.org. ""As a coalition led by families who’ve suffered unimaginable loss due to distracted driving, we know firsthand the urgent need to move from reactive to proactive safety strategies. This bill recognizes that innovation and compassion can coexist by empowering agencies to use real-time data, predictive analytics, and AI technologies to identify and address risk before tragedies occur. We urge Congress to advance this bold, bipartisan legislation without delay.” “By equipping transportation decision-makers with modern tools, the Roadway Safety Modernization Act will enable Greater Kansas City and communities nationwide to proactively design safer streets, sidewalks, and bike paths–preventing crashes before they happen,” said Eric Rogers, Executive Director, BikeWalkKC. “This forward-thinking initiative will make travel safer for everyone, regardless of their mode of transportation. BikeWalkKC applauds the leadership of Senators Boozman and Padilla and Representatives Mann and Davids for introducing this smart bipartisan legislation.” ###",1,2026-05-14T06:11:37Z,2026-05-14T06:12:56Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=3613699E-B324-42B4-B51A-5EC91ADDED38,Sen. Moran Applauds Confirmation of Ryan Kriegshauser as U.S. Attorney for Kansas,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement applauding the Senate’s confirmation of Ryan Kriegshauser to be the United States Attorney for the District of Kansas: “Congratulations to Ryan Kriegshauser on his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to serve as United States Attorney for Kansas. Throughout his career, Ryan has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, the rule of law and the pursuit of justice. He cares deeply about the safety and well-being of Kansans. As a former intern for me, I know him to be someone with the character and integrity needed to carry out the duties of this role. I look forward to working with him to support law enforcement and keep our communities safe. I am grateful for Ryan’s willingness to serve our state and country and wish him every success in this role.” Mr. Kriegshauser has served as interim U.S. Attorney for Kansas since Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed him in July. When his initial 120-day appointment expired, Chief U.S. District Court Judge John Broomes, on behalf of the Court, appointed Mr. Kriegshauser to serve in the position indefinitely while his nomination was pending before the Senate. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Kriegshauser worked in private practice after serving in the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office as Deputy Secretary of State of the Office of Legal Counsel and Policy, and prior to that, as General Counsel in the Office of the Kansas Securities Commissioner. Mr. Kriegshauser holds a bachelor's degree from Georgetown University and law degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City. A Navy veteran of Afghanistan, he currently serves as an officer in the Navy Reserve. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congress-passes-schmidt-backed-public-safety-bills,Congress Passes Schmidt-backed Public Safety Bills,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 18, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced three public-safety bills he cosponsored have passed Congress and are expected to become law. “Public safety is a core function of government,” Schmidt said. “I’ve joined in cosponsoring these three public safety bills to better protect children and to support law enforcement officers and firefighters, and I appreciate Congress approving all three and sending them to President Trump to be signed into law.” The three Schmidt-backed public safety bills approved this week are: Protect Our Children Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1274) reauthorizes and strengthens the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program. This legislation authorizes increased funding for ICACs and updates the national strategy to prevent child exploitation and strengthen ICAC task forces. Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act of 2025 (H.R. 1236) expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program to include retired officers who are killed or permanently disabled in targeted attacks due to their prior service. Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act (H.R. 1269) ensures the death or permanent disability of a public safety officer due to an exposure-related cancer is presumed a personal injury sustained in the line of duty under the Public Service Officer Benefits program if certain conditions are met.",1,2026-04-21T05:46:59Z,2026-04-21T05:48:34Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1F0095CA-AA5A-4BC7-8DFB-570E9B1D2994,Sen. Moran Leads Hearing to Review FAA ATC Modernization Plan,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – yesterday led a hearing with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford on the FAA’s air traffic control (ATC) modernization plan. Congress provided $12.5 billion for ATC modernization in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and the Department of Transportation recently announced the selection of Peraton as the Prime Integrator, which functions as the project manager for integrating the new ATC system. “On January 29th, American Airlines Flight 5342, traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, seconds before its scheduled landing at Reagan Washington National Airport, killing 67 people,” said Sen. Moran. “This tragic accident has forced Congress and the FAA to reckon with no longer just sustaining our air traffic control system but actually taking steps to modernize it.” “In July, this Congress provided $12.5 billion as a down payment toward ATC modernization,” continued Sen. Moran. “These funds were authorized for technology upgrades, new ATC facilities, runway and surface safety systems, advanced training and workforce capabilities, and other resources that build upon last year’s reauthorization. The FAA has made meaningful steps toward modernization. However, there is much, still, to do. Mr. Bedford, this committee has and will continue to rely on your agency to be a proactive and responsive partner in these efforts.” Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Opening Remarks Sen. Moran’s full remarks as delivered: “Administrator Bedford – thank you for joining us today to discuss the Federal Aviation Administration’s plan to modernize America’s Air Traffic Control system. “On January 29th, American Airlines Flight 5342, traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, seconds before its scheduled landing at Reagan Washington National Airport, killing 67 people. This tragic accident has forced Congress and the FAA to reckon with no longer just sustaining our air traffic control system but actually taking steps to modernize it. “I would like to acknowledge the families of the victims of this horrific tragedy that have joined us for today’s hearing. Thank you for your tireless advocacy on behalf of your loved ones. “While Congress and the public await the findings of the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation into the midair collision, we are here today to continue the long overdue work of modernizing American airspace. “Last year, Congress passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, which includes requirements to increase controller hiring, modernize ground-based infrastructure, and provides for improved air safety data and cybersecurity standards. “In July, this Congress provided $12.5 billion as a ‘down payment’ toward ATC modernization. These funds were authorized for technology upgrades, new ATC facilities, runway and surface safety systems, advanced training and workforce capabilities, and other resources that build upon last year’s reauthorization. Weeks after Reconciliation was signed into law, the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, of which I sit, unanimously approved providing FAA $5 billion – a record amount – to continue its efforts to modernize air traffic control. “Earlier in the summer, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced an ambitious overhaul of America’s ATC system. The scale and scope of this comprehensive modernization is enormous. It has and will continue to require an industry-wide mobilization and public-private partnerships to manage modernization on expedited timelines. To that end, Secretary Duffy and the FAA recently announced a Prime Integrator to manage the “Brand New Air Traffic Control System” project – Peraton, a technology and national security firm. “Today, we will hear from Mr. Bedford about progress the FAA has made toward modernization, including how initial funds authorized by this Congress in July have been used, additional resources the FAA needs to execute its modernization goals, and how Peraton will fit into enhancing the safety of national airspace. “The FAA has made meaningful steps toward modernization. However, there is much, still, to do. Mr. Bedford, this committee has and will continue to rely on your agency to be a proactive and responsive partner in these efforts. “Modernization is more than the replacement of physical or digital infrastructure: it also requires modernizing the statutes, rules, and regulations that govern the airspace to enable greater innovation and success. Following the deadly midair collision on January 29th, I introduced legislation to require military aircraft operating in congested airspace to install and use ADS-B In and Out, position broadcast technologies that are critical to keeping our skies safe. Soon after, this committee approved legislation – the ROTOR Act – to close gaps in air safety. “Last week, I joined Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell and the Ranking Member of this Subcommittee, Sen. Duckworth, in calling on Congress to amend the National Defense Authorization Act to remove language that could reverse updates to air safety standards made in response to the NTSB’s urgent safety recommendations. “I have also introduced an amendment to the NDAA that does two things: 1) require military aircraft to operate with ADS-B Out, and 2) prohibits service secretaries from delegating waiver authority. This effort is backstop if we cannot move the ROTOR Act across the finish line. I remain committed to working with the Chair and Ranking Member in accomplishing that. “I remain fully committed to addressing this issue, changing the law, as it is currently written, and implementing the recommendations of the NTSB following the release of their final report. “Administrator Bedford, I look forward to discussing airspace modernization but also discussing what the FAA is doing right now to keep our skies safe, particularly in light of a near-miss incident between an Air Force refueling aircraft and a JetBlue commercial flight over the Caribbean Sea on Friday.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-passage-annual-defense-bill-secures-key-peace-through,Rep. Derek Schmidt: Passage of Annual Defense Bill Secures Key ‘Peace through Strength’ Initiatives for Kansas,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 17, 2025) – Several priorities important to Kansas are included in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 1071) that today received final approval from Congress and is headed to the President for his signature, Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) said. “Congress must ensure America’s Armed Forces are well-equipped with the tools necessary to keep our country safe,” Schmidt said. “I was pleased to join my House and Senate colleagues in supporting this year’s NDAA to maintain the Trump Administration’s peace through strength agenda and support our servicemembers.” The final version of the bill, which passed the House last week on a 312-112 bipartisan vote and a 77-20 bipartisan vote today in the Senate, includes H.R. 5977, a bill Schmidt introduced to streamline the process for small businesses to become suppliers for the Pentagon. That measure became part of a broader effort to cut red tape so smaller, innovative companies can help supply America’s defense needs. The bill also includes H.R. 6595, a bill led by Schmidt and Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) to improve veterans’ access to healthcare and protect against downsizing of Department of Defense medical facilities, including Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley. Schmidt also helped lead H.R. 6745, a bipartisan bill in the NDAA to improve retention of quality Army and Air Force National Guard officers by eliminating a penalty for breaks in service. Other provisions important for Kansas that Schmidt supported in the final NDAA include: Authorizing a 3.8% pay raise for military personnel; Authorizing more than $490 million to design and build new childcare centers; Improving assistance to service members and families receiving orders to relocate; Preventing cancellation of the Air Force’s E-7 Wedgetail aircraft acquisition, protecting Kansas jobs; Increasing the number of air refueling tankers over time to remain capable and ready; Limiting the Pentagon’s ability to further reduce U.S. force posture in Europe; Establishing more test corridors for hypersonic and long-range weapons; and Establishing an Advanced Nuclear Transition Working Group to coordinate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies on military installations. “I sought a seat on the House Armed Services Committee to strengthen our ability to advocate for America’s military strength, the needs of our Kansas military communities, and the thousands of Kansans in our Second Congressional District who serve in the Armed Forces or support those who do,” Schmidt said. “In that role, I’m working toward those priorities and am encouraged by the progress we made this year.” During House Armed Services Committee consideration of the NDAA earlier this year, Schmidt also secured a directive that the National Simulation Center at Ft. Leavenworth remain in operation. The Second District of Kansas is home to numerous military interests including the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, the U.S. Army’s Combined Arms Center and 35th Infantry Division at Fort Leavenworth, the 190th Air Refueling Wing of the Kansas National Guard at Forbes Field in Topeka, and both the Kansas Army National Guard and Kansas Air National Guard Headquarters with authority over nearly 7,000 Kansas soldiers and airmen. It also is home to many private-sector businesses that manufacture products used by the military and employ thousands of Kansans.",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=01AAC1A8-E581-4E82-89F6-A113EEB44441,"PASSED: Sens. Moran, Cruz’s ROTOR Act to Improve Aviation Safety Standards After DCA Tragedy",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"Sen. Moran’s full remarks as delivered: “Senator Cruz – the gentleman from Texas – and Senator Cantwell – the gentlewoman from Washington state – thank you very much for the opportunity to join with you today and throughout a long process since January, the 29th, earlier this year. “That flight – Flight 5342 – originated in Wichita, Kansas, and as we know, on January 29th, it collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter. And it changed the way we look at air safety every moment since then. “And I appreciate the leadership of my two colleagues on the full committee – as well as Senator Duckworth, my colleague on the subcommittee on aviation – to make certain that we take all the steps necessary to make certain that the families who remind us today, and almost every day since January the 29th, about the importance of making the skies of the United States safe for those who fly today and in the future. “There’s numerous, numerous circumstances that led to this horrific incident, and NTSB’s critical investigation into this collision is continuing. While NTSB’s final recommendations have not yet been released, the Chair of NTSB, Jennifer Homendy, took the unprecedented step of publicly stating the National Defense Authorization Act does not adequately address the safety concerns surrounding the mixed airspace at DCA. “And while NDAA is critical to bolstering our defense capabilities, I have major concerns with the portion of the bill that is being fixed by the efforts today here on the Senate floor with this unanimous consent request. “After numerous conversations with my colleagues, Senator Cruz and Senator Cantwell, we secured an agreement from the Senate leadership – and I thank that Senate leadership, Senator Thune – for an amended version of the ROTOR Act, that it be quickly brought to the Senate floor for consideration to reinstate the advanced critical standards of safety for commercial and military aviation. We’re doing that right now. “The ROTOR Act closes the loopholes that have been described by my colleagues; it strengthens ADS-B requirements for commercial and military aircraft, among many other things. It requires a safety review of DCA and requires better coordination and information sharing between FAA and DoD. “I commend the FAA Administrator for his commitment, and particularly Secretary Duffy, for their combined commitment to air safety. In fact, when we conclude this effort here on the Senate floor, our committee is in session – our subcommittee is in session – with Administrator Bedford, the FAA Administrator, to review what other steps are being taken across the country for a safe airspace at every airport. We are bringing technology to bear that has been only talked about in the past and is now being accomplished. “Our aviation system is fragile, and over the last year, Congress has passed significant legislation investing in that airspace to increase the safety and to make sure that all who fly can be and are safe and feel safe. “Now is not the time to take any steps backwards, and that’s what we were worried, concerned about, that the NDAA provision does. While Congress works to ensure in law the safety of our airspace, our DOT and FAA leaders are committed to abide by current safety standards, maintaining that safety at the DCA airspace. “As both have said, more work to be done, but it’s a pretty good day to be taking the steps we’re taking and knowing that more is to come in honor of those who perished on January 29th, from Kansas, across the country and around the world.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=7C6C36B9-E27B-4FD9-BD70-68150A538DFE,"Sen. Moran Applauds Passage of Annual Defense Legislation, Secures Kansas Priorities",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"Moran voted to support the legislation with the agreement the Senate quickly takes up the ROTOR Act WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today released the following statement after voting to pass the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. Sen. Moran and his colleagues secured a commitment from Senate leadership to quickly bring the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act to the Senate floor to advance aviation safety standards, particularly for military helicopters operating in mixed airspace. “Each year, Congress is tasked with passing the National Defense Authorization Act to make certain our servicemembers are equipped with the resources needed to fulfill their critical mission of defending our nation,” said Sen. Moran. “While this legislation is critical to bolstering our defense capabilities, I have major concerns with portions of the bill that could undo safety regulations for military helicopters put in place after the January 29th midair collision near DCA. After numerous conversations, my colleagues and I secured an agreement from Senate leadership that the ROTOR Act will quickly be brought to the Senate floor to reinstate and advance critical safety standards for commercial and military aviation.” “With this agreement, I voted to pass the FY2026 NDAA which will strengthen Kansas’ defense capabilities, invest in our military readiness and improve the quality of life for the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces,” continued Sen. Moran. “The NDAA also authorizes a well-deserved pay increase for our servicemembers and includes my provision that will help strengthen access to medical care for our nation’s heroes through greater utilization of military hospitals like Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley.” Sens. Moran and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the ROTOR Act to improve aviation safety in response to the tragic midair collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter that claimed 67 lives on January 29th near Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA). The legislation passed the Senate Commerce Committee on October 21st. Sen. Moran’s priorities included in the FY26 NDAA: Expands Access to Medical Care for Veterans – Supports Defense Health Agency (DHA) military medical treatment facilities (MTF), such as Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, by requiring that DHA and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) create action plans to support greater utilization of military hospitals by veterans and servicemembers. Authorizes New Investments for Fort Riley– Authorizes $26 million to build a new Air Traffic Control tower, $13 million to build an Infantry Platoon Battle Course and $16 million to design a new unaccompanied barracks. Helps Prevent Fires on Navy Ships During Maintenance – Directs the Secretary of the Navy to evaluate flameless alternative technologies for ship maintenance, including press connect fittings, which Viega, based in McPherson, specializes in manufacturing, to combat a growing problem of Navy ships catching fire during repairs. Gives Troops a Pay Raise – Provides a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=D5EAE740-B77F-4B63-AF06-016380D4315D,Sen. Moran to Hold Hearing on FAA’s ATC Modernization Plan,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation – today announced he will hold a hearing to review the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) air traffic control (ATC) modernization plan, focusing on the progress of the new ATC system following the selection of Peraton as the Prime Integrator, which will function as the project manager. The hearing will be held on Wednesday, December 17th, at 2:30 p.m. ET. “Our air traffic control system is in need of modernization, and Congress made a major investment in improving the system earlier this year and is working to continue investing in this effort through annual appropriations,” said Chairman Moran. “I look forward to hearing from Administrator Bedford on next steps to implement a new air traffic control system, including the role of the recently announced Prime Integrator Peraton, additional resources needed and the current state of aviation safety.” Witnesses: Administrator Bryan Bedford, Federal Aviation Administration Hearing Details: WHAT: Subcommittee Hearing titled “FAA’s Plan for ATC Modernization: Evaluating Progress, Ensuring Accountability and Results” WHEN: Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. ET LOCATION: Commerce Committee Hearing Room, Russell Senate Office Building, Room 253 LIVESTREAM: The hearing will be livestreamed on the Senate Commerce Committee website and YouTube.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7289,Congressman Estes Announces Staff Changes,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has hired Natalie Turner as Communications Director to replace Roman Rodriguez, who is now District Director and Senior Communications Advisor. Rodriguez took over the position on May 1. He has been in a communications role with Rep. Estes since October 2017, working out of his Wichita district office. Turner is a Kansas native who recently served as a Public Affairs Specialist with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and before that as Deputy Press Secretary for U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas). In this new capacity as Communications Director, she will be based out of Rep. Estes’ D.C. office. “I’m excited about these staff changes on our team and look forward to Team Estes’ collaboration to continue working to deliver results for Kansans across the entire 4th District,” Congressman Estes said.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7290,Congressman Estes Reintroduces CBO Reform Bill,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Last week, U.S. Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) reintroduced the Executive Action Cost Transparency Act. This bill would mandate that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) provide a comprehensive and centralized list of final administrative actions in order to increase transparency and streamline information flow, providing lawmakers with needed information on spending. This would include proposed rules, final rules, executive orders, memoranda, and judicial actions since the last baseline and would further require CBO to provide updated estimates for scores that meet a threshold of $50 billion over 10 years. This common sense reform would ensure that the CBO, the designated scorekeepers of legislation, provide lawmakers with accurate and timely information on the spending of the executive branch, regardless of who is in the White House. “This common sense legislation takes steps to change course on the debt crisis that no American taxpayer wants to see from the federal government. Providing transparency on these costs is what the American people deserve,” Rep. Estes said. “Improving the information that CBO provides to Congress and the public is one crucial step that will help ensure we know the true cost of D.C. spending.” Congress has a duty to ensure the CBO is fulfilling its mission of providing lawmakers with accurate and timely information and analysis on legislation and the economy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=3EFD41D4-5C44-4BF3-B939-C40FC6D6DF35,"Sens. Moran, Slotkin Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Launch Task Force to Identify & Combat Cryptocurrency Fraud",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) introduced the Strengthening Agency Frameworks for Enforcement of Cryptocurrency (SAFE Crypto) Act, bipartisan legislation that would establish an inter-governmental task force between federal agencies and the private sector to coordinate identifying and combating cryptocurrency fraud. The task force would be required to present an update within a year of its launch to the Senate Banking and Agriculture committees and the House Financial Services and Agriculture committees, followed by annual reports to the respective committees. “With fraud and other payment scams continuing to grow, protecting the financial security and well-being of Kansans is critical,” said Sen. Moran. “Our legislation would establish a task force to strengthen coordination between government agencies, law enforcement and the financial services industry as they work together to identify and combat cryptocurrency fraud. As cryptocurrency becomes more widely used, this legislation would help counter threats and make certain all Americans are better protected from crypto scams.” “It’s critical we protect Americans against scams in all industries, but especially cryptocurrency as it becomes more popular,” said Sen. Slotkin. “It starts with equipping local law enforcement with tools they need to combat crypto scams, and ensuring Michiganders know how to protect themselves and their money. This task force, established by the SAFE Cryptocurrency Act, will allow us to draw upon every resource we have to combat fraud in digital assets.” “Over the last two years, we’ve tracked billions in scams and fraud across the crypto ecosystem,” said Ari Redbord, Vice President, Global Head of Policy, TRM Labs. “Solving this problem requires real-time disruption. This legislation enables public-private collaboration using blockchain intelligence to track, interdict, and disrupt illicit networks as activity is occurring — helping protect victims and ensure a safer financial system. By bringing industry and law enforcement together, we can meaningfully reduce criminals’ ability to exploit transformative technologies for harm."" Members of the task force would include: The following federal agencies, including the Department of Treasury as the chair of the task force (or a designee thereof): the Office of the Attorney General; the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN); the Secret Service; and any additional federal agency that the Department of Treasury, in consultation with the task force, deems relevant. The following industry groups: including stablecoin issuers; cryptocurrency exchanges; cryptocurrency custodians; blockchain intelligence providers; a representative of scam victims or consumer protection groups; and any additional private sector stakeholder that the Department of Treasury, in consultation with the task force, deems relevant. Representatives of federal, state and local law enforcement. Representatives of one or more state bank regulatory authorities. Full text of the SAFE Crypto Act can be found HERE. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7282,Congressman Estes Publishes Op-Ed on Rural Healthcare,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Yesterday, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) published an op-ed in The Washington Times discussing air ambulances and the lifesaving impacts it makes on rural health care. You may scroll below to see excerpts from the op-ed. You may click HERE or on the image above to read the full op-ed. “Living in rural America comes with great benefits – a simpler way of life in picturesque countrysides where neighbors can be miles away physically but deeply close personally. “It also means more miles between conveniences.” “Growing up on my family farm in rural Kansas where my mom still lives today, we were just a few miles outside our town of 2,500, but we were 40 miles from the big city of Topeka, which back then had a population just shy of 80,000.” “Air ambulances have been providing lifesaving services for decades. I’ve visited with the pilots and EMTs; they are dedicated professionals who fly into sometimes dangerous situations to give emergency treatment and transport our friends and neighbors to doctors and nurses tens or hundreds of miles away.” “And it’s not just for folks living in rural parts of the country, but those traveling through those regions as well. One pilot shared with me a story involving a bad accident in rural Kansas. It was dark, and the air ambulance had to land near power lines. The pilot and flight medics took a risk to save the life of someone badly injured driving through our state, and those selfless men and women are ready to do it again today.” “Ensuring that this critical service is available to all Americans is why I reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation the Protecting Air Ambulance Services for Americans Act.” “While the medical tools and aircraft have all advanced over the years, the Medicare reimbursement rate has not changed since the fee schedule was established in 2002, leaving some air ambulances running in the red. And with nearly 40% of all air medical transports being Medicare patients, it’s easy to see why the reimbursement must reflect today’s realities. Sadly, this and other factors have forced closures across the country.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-celebrates-four-big-first-high-school-championships-football,Rep. Mann Celebrates Four Big First High School Championships in Football,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to celebrate four high schools in the Big First who won state championships in football for the 2025 season. Hanover High School, Manhattan High School, Salina Central High School, and Sterling High School brought home state championships in the 8-man division II, 6A, 5A, and 1A divisions. Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared: Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize four remarkable high school football programs from the Big First District that brought home state championships this season. In Kansas, high school football is more than a sport. It teaches discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of community. More importantly, it connects us all through a common good while making memories that will last a lifetime. As a kid from Western Kansas, I grew up listening to K-State football on the radio. Like so many young people across our state, those Saturday broadcasts shaped my love of the game. I later had the privilege of playing on a state championship team myself at Quinter High School, and I remember the feeling of being a part of something bigger than myself. That is what these young men experienced this season. This year, four schools from the Big First reached the top of their divisions. In 6A, Manhattan High School claimed the title with a decisive 27 to 0 win over Olathe Northwest. Their players, coaches, and staff worked hard all season to earn an achievement that will be remembered in the Manhattan community forever. In 5A, my hometown of Salina is celebrating a very special moment. The Salina Central Mustangs brought home the state championship with a 51 to 34 victory over Basehor-Linwood. For the students, families, and alumni who have longed for another state championship for the last 20 years, congratulations on bringing your title home. You all deserve it, and we are all so proud! In the 1A division, Sterling football defeated Rossville 35 to 34 in one of the closest and most competitive games of the season. Games like this reflect the best of high school athletics: determination, sportsmanship, and communities rallying behind their teams. And in 8-man Division II, Hanover earned a 28 to 20 win over Victoria to secure another championship for their school. Eight-man football has deep roots in rural Kansas, and Hanover’s success highlights the strength of programs that represent some of our smallest but proudest communities. Mr. Speaker, four state championships in one year from schools in the Big First District is quite an accomplishment. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the strong communities, dedicated coaches, supportive families, and student-athletes who put in the work day after day to bring these championships home. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these young men, their schools, and their hometowns. They have represented Kansas with pride, and they have bright futures ahead.",1,2026-04-21T05:46:59Z,2026-04-21T05:48:34Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mann-flood-davids-and-carter-introduce-bipartisan-bill-boost-sustainable,"Reps. Mann, Flood, Davids, and Carter Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Boost Sustainable Aviation, Support Farmers, Grow American Jobs",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Mike Flood (NE-01), Sharice Davids (KS-03), and Troy Carter (LA-02) introduced the Securing America’s Fuels (SAF) Act, bipartisan legislation that strengthens the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, creates economic opportunities for farmers, and reduces emissions in the transportation sector. “Sustainable aviation fuel is a worthwhile investment for American agriculture and for American energy dominance,” said Rep. Mann. “The Securing America’s Fuels Act gives Kansas farmers the certainty they need to plan, invest, and keep supplying fuel to the country and our aviation sector. I will always support legislation that supports rural communities and helps the United States continue to lead the world in producing the fuels of tomorrow.” “America is on the cusp of the next great biofuels revolution,” said Rep Flood. “The Securing America’s Fuels Act is yet another way Congress can grow our bio economy and encourage innovation that creates great jobs across rural America. Sustainable aviation fuel will help lower emissions while expanding domestic markets for our nation’s farmers, ensuring that our ag economy thrives for generations to come. I want to thank Congresswoman Davids for introducing this much-needed bill and look forward to working together to advance this commonsense, bipartisan bill through Congress.” “Investing in sustainable aviation fuel isn’t just good for the environment — it’s good for Kansas farmers, our communities, and our economy,” said Rep.Davids. “The SAF Act ensures that clean fuel production incentives are strong and long-term so businesses, farmers, and innovators can plan for the future with confidence. The bipartisan support shows the incredible potential we have to build a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous future for generations to come.” ""Without coordinated action between government and industry, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to increase as more people and goods fly through our skies,” said Rep Carter. “Sustainable aviation fuel is an exciting, new green fuel that’s creating jobs in Louisiana and driving demand for American agricultural products. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure America is on track to meet the growing demand for cleaner transportation and healthier communities.” The sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry currently relies on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to make production economically viable. While recent legislation extended the credit for all clean fuels, it eliminated the SAF-specific bonus. To address this challenge, the SAF Act would: Reinstate the SAF bonus credit eliminated under the recent federal budget, allowing qualifying SAF producers to receive up to $0.35 or $1.75 per gallon. Extend the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit for all clean fuels through 2033, providing long-term stability for the growing clean fuels industry. SAF is a game-changer for local communities, agriculture, and the transportation industry. Scaling SAF to meet U.S. goals could generate 33,000 construction jobs over five years, sustain 4,500 permanent operations jobs, and support 60,000 jobs in agriculture and logistics by 2030. SAF can also reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 percent, delivering major environmental benefits while using existing aviation infrastructure. The bipartisan legislation is endorsed by major industry and agricultural groups, including National Corn Growers Association, SAF Coalition, Airlines for America, Kansas Farm Bureau, Renew Kansas, Kansas Corn, Kansas Soybean Association, Greater New Orleans Inc., Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Twelve, Darling Ingredients, Louisiana Farm Bureau Foundation, Advanced Biofuels Association, Global Business Travel Association, and American Sugarcane League. “Delta applauds Reps. Flood, Davids, Mann, and Carter for their leadership in introducing the Securing America's Fuels Act, which will ensure 45Z reaches its full potential and provides the critical investment certainty necessary to bring additional SAF production facilities online to meet our industry's unprecedented demand for cost-competitive, homegrown fuels,"" said Cherie Wilson, Vice President, Government Affairs - Sustainability, Delta Air Lines. “U.S. airlines are grateful to Representatives Flood, Davids, Carter, and Mann for introducing legislation that would restore and extend the full 45Z tax credit,” said Airlines for America. “This will stimulate private sector investment in SAF while also bolstering American energy dominance. This credit is a win-win for both the aviation and agriculture industries, supporting U.S. job growth across the country.” “The Clean Fuel Production Credit is an extremely valuable economic support policy for the rural economy, and we are pleased to see Kansas taking the lead in extending and expanding it,” said Kaleb Little, Kansas Soybean Association CEO. “We thank Representative Davids and Representative Mann for co-sponsoring this bi-partisan legislation. Biomass-based diesel production supports approximately 10 percent of the value of every bushel of soybeans grown in the United States, or an additional $149 million for Kansas farmers in 2024. Farmers and fuel producers have made tremendous investments to build a biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industry that can help meet America’s energy needs.” ### For more information on Rep. Mann visit www.mann.house.gov",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=2584778F-B8F4-4CA6-A04C-0B025FA173E8,Sen. Moran Joins Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Bolster American Global Leadership in Digital Trade,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) joined Sens. Todd Young (R-Ind.), Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) in introducing the Digital Trade Promotion Act, bipartisan legislation that would strengthen American global leadership in digital trade. The Digital Trade Promotion Act would authorize the President to negotiate and enforce digital trade agreements with trusted partners and allies, thereby bolstering opportunities for businesses and workers and strengthening U.S. economic security. This legislation also provides congressional oversight authority to review and, if necessary, disapprove of any agreement, making certain that the American people are prioritized in every negotiation. “Advancing the digital trade of goods and services positively impacts everyone across our state – from farmers and manufacturers to small businesses and consumers,” said Sen. 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.” “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 Sen. 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 Sen. Coons. “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 Sen. 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.” 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, artificial intelligence 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. Full text of the legislation can be found here. A one-pager on the bill can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=7DF6768F-25A4-4A31-BEA2-87B155B34B50,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Calls on Congress to Amend NDAA to Maintain Critical Aviation Safety Standards for Military Helicopters,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today spoke on the Senate floor warning that the current draft of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) fails to implement the minimum standards necessary for military helicopters operating in mixed airspace. Sen. Moran called on his colleagues to amend the NDAA or pass additional legislation to maintain current safety standards. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy stated in a press conference this week that the current version of the NDAA could threaten safety regulations that were put in place following the fatal January 29 crash involving American Airlines Flight 5342, which originated from Wichita. “I will insist and be working with my colleagues to amend the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, or to otherwise pass legislation to make sure that NDAA language is at least as a minimum abiding by the safety standards that were set in place after the crash of January, the 29th,” said Sen. Moran. “Our aviation system is fragile. I chair the subcommittee in Commerce on Aviation and Space. We’ve seen this in testimony time and time again: there is fragility in the safety of our air system, and over the last year, Congress has passed significant legislation to invest in the future safety of our airspace and introduced legislation to make our airspace safer, including the ROTOR Act. Now is not the time to take a step back from these efforts.” Yesterday, Sen. Moran joined his fellow members of the Senate Commerce Committee leadership in issuing a joint statement raising concerns about the NDAA provision. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks Sen. Moran’s full remarks as delivered:“Mr. President, the deadly collision that occurred here in our nation’s capital between American Airlines Flight 5342, from Wichita, Kansas, and a U.S. Army Blackhawk on January 29th, 2025, forever changed how we look and think about air travel. There were numerous circumstances that led to this horrific incident, and the NTSB’s – the National Transportation Safety Board’s – critical investigation into this collision is continuing even today. “While the NTSB’s final recommendations have not yet been released, the Chair of the NTSB, Jennifer Homendy, took an unusual step in publicly stating that the current version of the NDAA – the National Defense Authorization Act – does not adequately address the safety concerns surrounding the mixed airspace around DCA. “She even went on to say that the legislation – the legislation, the NDAA – she says, ‘reverses safety changes made after the mid-air collision; after the NTSB issued urgent safety recommendations; and after Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy rightfully implemented NTSB’s urgent safety recommendations.’ “Based on the data and recommendations we’ve received so far from NTSB so far, we know that: “One: There should have been limitations to rotary travel in high-traffic areas of commercial air travel. “Two: All aircraft in this space should be using position broadcast technology, nearly no exceptions, “And three: the users of this congested air space should be communicating problems to each other, like the 15,000 ‘near misses’ that occurred around DCA in a three-year period between commercial planes and rotary aircraft. 15,000 near misses in a three-year period of time. “The current NDAA text includes a provision which misses the mark on two of these must-have provisions. Therefore, I will insist and be working with my colleagues to amend the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, or to otherwise pass legislation – perhaps in the appropriations process, of which I’m a member of that committee – to make sure that NDAA language is at least as a minimum abiding by the safety standards that were set in place after the crash of January, the 29th. “Our aviation system is fragile. I chair the subcommittee in Commerce on Aviation and Space. We’ve seen this in testimony time and time again: there is fragility in the safety of our air system, and over the last year, Congress has passed significant legislation to invest in the future safety of our airspace and introduced legislation to make our airspace safer, including the ROTOR Act. “Now is not the time to take a step back from these efforts. I’m grateful for the hard work of NTSB Chair Homendy and her team, and I look forward to receiving their final recommendations when that time arises. “And I also want to say thank you to the families of the victims of Flight 5342, who have continued to be vocal advocates for the safety of our airspace in honor of the loved ones they lost. “Mr. President, it is important we not take a step back, but take a step forward. And I’ll work in every way that I can with my colleagues to see that we accomplish that before the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act. Mr. President, I yield the floor.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-promotes-us-peace-through-strength,Rep. Mann Promotes U.S. Peace Through Strength,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance S. 1071, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026(NDAA). The annual bill provides critical resources for national defense, military readiness, and support for the nation’s service members. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote. “Every day, our U.S. service members put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms,” said Rep. Mann. “I was proud to support our men and women in uniform at Fort Riley and around the globe by voting to give them a 4% pay raise, rebuild our defense industrial base, and restore merit-based standards in our military. More importantly, the NDAA better positions us to promote U.S. peace through strength while codifying several of President Trump’s executive orders that have put our military first again. I am forever grateful for the sacrifice our military and their families make every day, and this NDAA makes them a priority while restoring military lethality and morale for troops.” The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026: Provides enlisted service members with a 4% pay raise. Expands U.S. counter-drone defenses and new technologies. Advances the Golden Dome and enhances America’s nuclear deterrence and new nuclear power technologies. Fully supports the deployment of National Guard and active-duty troops at the southwest border to intercept illegal immigrants and drugs. Enhances U.S. defense initiatives in the Indo-Pacific to bolster Taiwan’s defense and support Indo-Pacific allies. Revitalizes American shipbuilding and expands the Maritime Industrial Base. Accelerates the development and delivery of space capabilities to counter Chinese and Russian nuclear arsenals and space surveillance. Restores merit-based promotions and admissions to service academies. Counters antisemitism and eliminates programs that discourage military readiness, like CRT and climate initiatives. ###",1,2026-04-15T05:46:42Z,2026-04-15T05:48:27Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=41DBB088-EB8D-403D-A867-41039FD92EF0,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Questions U.S. Trade Representative Greer on Agricultural & Aviation Trade,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) – led a hearing yesterday with United States Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer, during which he emphasized the important role of agricultural and aviation trade to Kansas. Sen. Moran questioned Ambassador Greer on trade opportunities for agricultural producers, global markets for ethanol and other biofuels, and highlighted the significance of aviation trade to Kansas. During his remarks, Sen. Moran shared a photo of a grain sorghum pile that was taken in Kensington several years ago, emphasizing the need for expanded markets for Kansas producers. “I could hardly see the grain elevator because of the grain sorghum that was piled on the ground because there was no space in the elevator,” said Sen. Moran. “This was, and has now returned to be, the circumstance in communities across Kansas. It highlights the magnitude of what we have to sell and how important your job is.” Sen. Moran also questioned Ambassador Greer on maintaining the zero-for-zero tariff provision for aviation products in the Trade Agreements Act of 1979. “In addition to an agricultural state, we’ve got a number of things – how we earn a living in Kansas – but one of the significant ones is aviation,” continued Sen. Moran. “In your negotiations in the past – with the United Kingdom, with South Korea, Japan, the European Union – you have established the zero-for-zero tariffs that were created in the 1979 agreement. You’ve continued that practice, that policy. I want to encourage that to continue as you negotiate with India or Brazil or Singapore. Can you provide me an update and your thought process on the continuation of the 1979 agreement?” “As you know, I lived in Wichita – the Air Capital – so this is a sector that’s important to me,” responded Ambassador Greer. “As we’ve gone through and we’ve accomplished our trade deals with countries, this is an area where we’ve agreed to give them no reciprocal tariff, again, recognizing the 1979 agreement and the status of the industry in America as a net exporter. With Brazil, India, Singapore, we don’t have deals yet with these countries. With India, it’s fairly far advanced. And my expectation: we can certainly talk about extending treatment to those countries as well if they’re willing to play ball and come to the table and give the United States the market access it should have.” Sen. Moran’s opening statement can be viewed here. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Questioning",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/sen-moran-rep-schmidt-secure-kansas-priority-annual-defense-authorization,"Sen. Moran, Rep. Schmidt Secure Kansas Priority in Annual Defense Authorization Legislation",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 9, 2025) – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – and U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02) – a member of the House Committee on Armed Services – applauded the inclusion of their amendment, which would strengthen access to medical care for veterans, in the conferenced text of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This provision will support Defense Health Agency (DHA) military medical treatment facilities (MTF), such as Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, by requiring that DHA and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) create action plans to support greater utilization of military hospitals by veterans and servicemembers. These action plans will expand veteran access to MTF services while also enhancing resource sharing between DHA and VA. Sen. Moran helped secure passage of the amendment in the Senate in October. Based on a provision Rep. Schmidt secured during House Armed Services Committee consideration in July, the FY2026 NDAA also imposes additional requirements before an MTF is downgraded in the scope of services it provides. “America’s veterans have sacrificed much to serve our nation and protect our freedom,” said Sen. Moran. “I’m pleased that the final text of the annual National Defense Authorization Act includes our provision to expand medical access for veterans and support the longevity of Irwin Army Community Hospital and other military treatment facilities across the country. I urge my colleagues to support the swift passage of this legislation to make certain that our troops have the resources needed to fulfill their mission during military service that our veterans have the access to care and the tools to succeed after service.” “The men and women who serve America in our armed forces deserve top-notch access to healthcare both while serving and when they later enter the veterans healthcare system,” said Rep. Schmidt. “It has been a pleasure working with Senator Moran to expand options for veterans healthcare while also strengthening Irwin Army Community Hospital and other important healthcare facilities on military bases throughout our country.” The Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives passed separate legislation, but the final FY2026 NDAA was negotiated by leadership of the Senate and House Armed Services committees. It now heads to the full House and Senate for approval.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=4562BF59-1691-4C80-983E-673BE1C776D3,Sen. Moran Statement on Trump Administration’s Rollout of $12 Billion Economic Assistance Package for U.S. Farmers,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry – today responded to the announcement by the Trump administration that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide $12 billion in federal economic assistance for American farmers. The package includes $11 billion in one-time payments to crop farmers under the USDA’s Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program. The remaining $1 billion will be utilized for commodities not included in the FBA program. “Years of drought, high input costs and trade uncertainty have created economic hardships for American farmers,” said Sen. Moran. “This package is a necessity that will help farmers weather the current uncertainty while the administration works to increase markets for farmers to sell their crops. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on the Senate Agriculture Committee and with the administration to make certain we are providing farmers and ranchers with the resources they need to continue feeding, fueling and clothing the world, and maintaining their businesses and livelihoods.” Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Interview Today on RFD-TV # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F9B06F7C-BB9E-4063-B861-53C85851298D,"Sen. Moran, Rep. Schmidt Secure Kansas Priority in Annual Defense Authorization Legislation",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – and U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02) – a member of the House Committee on Armed Services – applauded the inclusion of their amendment, which would strengthen access to medical care for veterans, in the conferenced text of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This provision will support Defense Health Agency (DHA) military medical treatment facilities (MTF), such as Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley, by requiring that DHA and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) create action plans to support greater utilization of military hospitals by veterans and servicemembers. These action plans will expand veteran access to MTF services while also enhancing resource sharing between DHA and VA. Sen. Moran helped secure passage of the amendment in the Senate in October. Based on a provision Rep. Schmidt secured during House Armed Services Committee consideration in July, the FY2026 NDAA also imposes additional requirements before an MTF is downgraded in the scope of services it provides. “America’s veterans have sacrificed much to serve our nation and protect our freedom,” said Sen. Moran. “I’m pleased that the final text of the annual National Defense Authorization Act includes our provision to expand medical access for veterans and support the longevity of Irwin Army Community Hospital and other military treatment facilities across the country. I urge my colleagues to support the swift passage of this legislation to make certain that our troops have the resources needed to fulfill their mission during military service that our veterans have the access to care and the tools to succeed after service.” “The men and women who serve America in our armed forces deserve top-notch access to healthcare both while serving and when they later enter the veterans healthcare system,” said Rep. Schmidt. “It has been a pleasure working with Senator Moran to expand options for veterans healthcare while also strengthening Irwin Army Community Hospital and other important healthcare facilities on military bases throughout our country.” The Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives passed separate legislation, but the final FY2026 NDAA was negotiated by leadership of the Senate and House Armed Services committees. It now heads to the full House and Senate for approval. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-mann-applauds-president-trumps-aid-american-farmers,ICYMI: Rep. Mann Applauds President Trump's Aid to American Farmers,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SALINA, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann joined Meet the Press Now to applaud the Trump Administration's announcement that they will provide $12 billion in bridge aid to American agricultural producers. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the announcement: ""American agriculture has no stronger champion than President Trump,"" said Rep. Mann. ""After four years of President Biden being asleep at the wheel with no trade deals, no positive news for farmers, and a Department of Agriculture hyper focused on Green New Deal policies, our farm economy struggled with record-high input costs and warped global markets. President Trump is bridging the gap from four years of chaos into a new golden age for American agriculture. Thank you, President Trump, for standing with our nation's farmers and for giving them much-needed relief as they plan for the year ahead."" CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann's full interview In case you missed it... [On President Biden being asleep at the wheel]: Without question the Biden Administration was asleep at the wheel for four years when it comes to ag trade. When President Trump ended his first term there was an ag trade surplus of $6 billion. When Biden ended his term there was a deficit of $40 billion. So we went years without new trade deals, no positive news for farmers as far as trade goes. President Trump has come in and he is righting the ship and that takes a while. When you run a ship into an iceberg you have to stop the ship, bail the water, repair the ship, and pick a different direction. That's exactly what we're seeing happening. These deals are getting done. [On getting fair trade deals]: Our farmers want trade, not aid. We have to get better, fair, trade deals. The two crops that have been impacted the most by trade talks this year are soybeans and sorghum. We are seeing China make announcements that they are buying soybeans and sorghum. The President said today, he's been very adamant about requiring China to live up to their deals. Beyond that, we have got to continue to open new markets and that is where Biden failed for years in doing no new trade deals, opening up no new relationships. When there is a level, fair playing field, our American farmers can compete around the world. We have to get these trade deals done. Unfortunately, the Trump administration was handed the baton way behind and now they're working to try to catch up. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=CEEC5801-E8D0-4EE1-98CD-ECC1547CC637,Sen. Moran Statement on Boeing’s Acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today released the following statement after Boeing closed its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems: ""Wichita would not be the Air Capital of the World without the extraordinary engineers, designers and manufacturers who have invested in our aerospace industry and made Kansas their home. Boeing's acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems will help build bridges between Seattle and Wichita and bring new opportunities to the Air Capital of the World. I welcome Boeing back to Wichita and look forward to working with them to build a lasting relationship with the community and its workforce, as well as current and future suppliers, to continue building on the growth we have seen in recent years."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-introduces-bill-coordinate-federal-response-scams,Rep. Derek Schmidt Introduces Bill to Coordinate Federal Response to Scams,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (December 5, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-2) this week joined in leading a bipartisan group of Senators and Representatives to introduce legislation requiring the federal government to better coordinate its work to fight scams and protect consumers, particularly seniors. The National Strategy for Combating Scams Act would require coordination among the numerous federal agencies that have jurisdiction over different aspects of fraud and scams. The bill also would require federal agencies to improve anti-scam coordination with state and local authorities. Each year, Americans lose billions of dollars to scams and fraud. While all Americans can be targets, scammers often disproportionately target seniors and may be particularly aggressive during the holiday season. ""As a former Kansas attorney general, nothing makes my blood boil more than crooks and scam artists who ripoff billions of dollars each year from Americans, particularly preying on our seniors,” Schmidt said. “Too often, the alphabet soup bureaucracy of federal agencies assigned to protect Americans from scammers get stuck in their individual silos of responsibility and jurisdiction. Our bill is aimed at coordinating the federal response to scams and improving the cooperation among the authorities who are supposed to stop them and protect Kansans.” The National Strategy for Combating Scams Act (H.R. 6425) would establish a federal working group led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to coordinate the efforts of more than a dozen federal agencies in combating scams. The working group would also be tasked with increasing coordination with Federal, State, local and Tribal governments. Schmidt is the Republican co-lead on the bill, introduced yesterday together with Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI-1). Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ashley Moody (R-FL). “Too many Rhode Islanders have been taken for a ride by scammers skimming their pockets and stealing their hard-earned money, leaving many devastated and destitute,” Amo said. “I’m proud to introduce these bipartisan measures, one of which is also bicameral, to ensure we are addressing the rising scam threat in a coordinated and strategic manner. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and the Senate as the national strategy is developed to keep fighting scammers and keep Rhode Islanders’ money where it belongs, in their pockets."" In addition to the National Strategy for Combating Scams Act, Schmidt has cosponsored the STOP Scams Against Seniors Act (H.R. 6426) which would authorize the use of federal grant funds to establish and support Elder Justice Task Forces to help local, state, and federal agencies work together to investigate and prosecute illegal scammers. Schmidt also cosponsored a resolution (H.Res. 931) supporting the designation of December 4 as “National Scam Prevention Day.” During his prior service as Kansas attorney general, that office recovered a record-setting amount of money from scammers and returned it to Kansas consumers. Schmidt also previously chaired the national consumer protection committee of the National Association of Attorneys General.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=379822B1-D8F4-4473-BEC0-7E1E5E60E210,Sen. Moran Statement on Selection of Prime Integrator to Oversee New Air Traffic Control System,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – released the following statement on the announcement by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that Peraton will be the Prime Integrator to lead the construction of the new air traffic control system: “This announcement is good news for the traveling public, and it signals a positive step in the critical efforts to improve the aviation system and modernize our air space. As the project moves forward, Congress remains committed to conducting oversight to make certain that the safety and efficiency of our U.S. aviation system remain the top priority. As we tragically witnessed on January 29th when a flight originating from Wichita crashed with an Army helicopter – resulting in the loss of 67 lives – the effort to modernize air safety is long overdue. This selection is pivotal in modernizing our aviation system and enhancing greater safety and certainty for air travelers.” Items to note: The project to modernize air traffic control infrastructure received a historic $12.5 billion federal investment as a part of the Reconciliation Bill that was signed into law in July. Peraton, with the USDOT and the FAA, will oversee the rollout of the project. As Chairman of the Commerce Aviation Subcommittee, Sen. Moran will hold a hearing on December 17 to examine Air Traffic Control modernization. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford will testify before the subcommittee. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=24712D67-0046-47ED-A1DC-34FAA77B2994,"Sens. Moran, Peters Reintroduce Legislation to Reauthorize and Reform the Technology Modernization Fund",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) reintroduced the Modernizing Government Technology Reform Act, legislation that would modernize and reauthorize the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) through 2032. This legislation also imposes additional requirements and oversight on agencies receiving TMF funding, making certain funding is prioritized towards long-term modernization projects. This legislation expands on the Modernizing Government Technology Act, legislation introduced by Sen. Moran in 2017, that established the TMF to provide multi-year funding and repayment flexibility for agencies to modernize IT systems, improve government services and strengthen cybersecurity. This legislation was included in the FY2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and was signed into law later that year. “Bolstering our national cybersecurity is critical as America continues to face growing threats of cybercrime and espionage from our adversaries,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation would extend funding for the Technology Modernization Fund, allowing federal agencies to improve outdated data security systems and eliminate long-term wasteful spending in the process.” ""This bill ensures government technology keeps pace with the needs of the American people,” said Sen. Peters. “By modernizing outdated systems and strengthening oversight, we’re ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely, strengthening cybersecurity, and improving services that millions of Americans rely on every day."" U.S. Representatives Nancy Mace (R-SC-01), Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11), and Shontel Brown (D-OH-11) introduced companion legislation in the House. Full text of the legislation can be found HERE. Specifically, this legislation would: Reauthorize the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) through 2032. Authorize TMF funds to be used for IT projects that improve an agency’s ability to execute its mission and deliver services to the public. Impose additional requirements for agencies that receive funds to reimburse the TMF. Revise the criteria by which agency applications for TMF funding are evaluated to include the extent to which they address the greatest security, privacy and operational risks; impact of modernizing, retiring or replacing legacy IT systems; and ability of an agency to reimburse funds provided. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=B1731AB0-EB5E-4489-9DDC-2034B2F77DA7,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Questions NASA Nominee on Importance of Earth Science Programs for Kansas Agriculture,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today questioned the NASA Administrator nominee, Jared Isaacman, during his nomination hearing. In his remarks, Sen. Moran emphasized to Mr. Isaacman the significant role that NASA’s Earth Science Division plays in supporting the agriculture industry and shared a letter from a Kansas farmer, Dwane Roth of Holcomb, on the importance of NASA’s earth science research. “I want to mention for a moment the mission directive of science, and the letter that captured me is from a Kansas farmer named Mr. Roth,” said Sen. Moran. “He indicates to me that NASA’s earth science investments – I’m reading directly from his letter – now directly support U.S. farmers in ways that were unimaginable even a decade ago. Tools based on NASA’s data and science – like OpenET, NISAR, the Rangeland Analysis Platform – provide real-time field level insight into soil moisture, biomass, drought stress, water use, yield stability. These aren’t future technologies, he says, they are already built, functional and being used in states like mine.” Sen. Moran went on to highlight the NASA Acres Farm Innovation Ambassador Team (FIAT), a national partnership that connects producers with NASA researchers to develop practical tools for farming using satellite data. “This mission is to unite farmers with NASA to turn earth observation technology into real-world decisions that support profitability, water efficiency and risk reduction,” continued Sen. Moran. “A Kansas farmer found value in NASA. It’s something we don’t always talk about and think about when we think about space. I’m looking for your thoughts in response to what this farmer is reminding me of. How do you see NASA supporting or operationally developing the satellites that support precision agriculture? Tell me your response to this idea that NASA has a role to play in the everyday lives of Kansas and American agriculture.” “At the present time, we only inhabit one planet,” responded Mr. Isaacman. “Earth science is pretty vitally important. It’s a role that NASA has had since the agency was established. We have Landsat satellites up there that are looking down, understanding droughts and flooding and wildfires – natural disasters – almost essentially in real time that obviously play a direct role on the agriculture community. There’s obviously our GPS constellations that are going to go hand-in-hand with agriculture equipment for next generation farming. So, I do see this as a vital role that NASA continues to fulfill.” Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Questioning",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-backs-legislation-fight-child-exploitation,Rep. Derek Schmidt Backs Legislation to Fight Child Exploitation,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (November 25, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt is cosponsoring three bipartisan bills to strengthen federal work combating the exploitation of children, his office announced today. “When I served as Kansas attorney general, we made fighting crimes against children a top priority for our state,” Schmidt said. “As a member of Congress, I now serve in a position to support those who are carrying on the front-line work of protecting children from abuse and exploitation each and every day.” Last week, Schmidt cosponsored the ENFORCE Act (H.R. 4831) to close loopholes in the federal obscenity statute that currently leaves offenders less accountable when they create child sexual abuse material using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. Schmidt also recently cosponsored the STOP CSAM Act (H.R. 3921), which strengthens federal laws requiring online platforms to assist in combating child sexual abuse materials on their platforms. He also has cosponsored the PROTECT Our Children Reauthorization Act (H.R. 1274), which would reauthorize and strengthen the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program. The legislation proposes to increase funding for ICACs and to update the national strategy to prevent child exploitation and to strengthen ICAC task forces. “The ways in which sex offenders can exploit children are multiplying as fast as online technology is evolving,” Schmidt said. “We need to redouble our efforts for the law to keep pace.” In addition to the three bills to strengthen enforcement, Schmidt is backing other measures to support crime victims, including victims of child exploitation. Schmidt is a lead cosponsor of the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act, a bipartisan bill to shore up funding for crime victim support grants, including those supporting child victims (H.R. 909). He also is also a cosponsor of the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act (H.R. 4323), which would vacate convictions for certain crimes committed by victims while being trafficked. For several years, Schmidt served on the law enforcement advisory committee of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. As a Kansas state senator, he was a principal author of the Kansas version of Jessica’s Law, which imposes life prison sentences for violent sex offenders who prey on children. And as Kansas attorney general, he led that office while it sent more child abusers to prison for life than any prior administration and also helped lead the multi-year effort to overhaul and strengthen Kansas state laws against human trafficking. “Sadly, protecting children from abuse and exploitation requires a sustained effort by people of goodwill at every level of government and throughout civil society,” Schmidt said. “We are committed to continuing to do our part to protect our kids.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=05A42970-0840-4E1E-8921-98A6DC404796,"Sens. Moran, Gallego Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Small Transit Intensive Cities Program",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) introduced bipartisan legislation to bolster the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Small Transit Intensive Cities (STIC) program by increasing the Section 5307 grant allotment – which the STIC program utilizes – from 3 percent to 5 percent to help increase the efficiency and capacity of public transportation in communities with populations between 50,000 and 200,000. The allotment does not necessitate an increase in federal spending; it simply allocates existing funding where it is needed most and rewards high-performing STIC participants. “Public transportation provides critical services to communities in Kansas and across the country as people travel to work, doctor’s appointments and more,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation will build on the success of the Small Transit Intensive Cities Program and help to make certain high-performing public transit systems in smaller urban or suburban communities can receive the same access to federal investment as higher population areas.” “Small urban areas like Flagstaff, Sierra Vista, and Yuma are doing all they can to keep up with demand for affordable, reliable public transportation,” said Sen. Gallego. “This bill gives these already successful systems the resources they need to expand service and connect even more Arizonans to their jobs, school, and health care. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan bill to support local infrastructure projects.” “The Small Transit Intensive Cities program has been critical for Lawrence Transit and many other communities our size,” said Felice Lavergne, Director of Transit for the City of Lawrence. “Collaborating with the University of Kansas provides strong ridership which means we provide levels of service more typical of much larger cities. Continued and increased funding ensures that smaller communities like ours can meet that demand: connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare, and more. We’re grateful for Senator Moran’s leadership in supporting this program.” “Small city transit operators are among the most effective and efficient in the nation,” said Scott Bogren, Executive Director of the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA). “CTAA and its members strongly support S.2957 that further rewards high performance for these agencies. We're pleased to be working with Senators Moran and Gallego on this important legislation."" The STIC Program is an existing FTA program that rewards high transit performance by providing funds to small-urban transit providers. The populations of these communities are between 50,000 and 200,000, and the resources are based on meeting at least one of six measurable performance criteria established annually by the average service levels of larger public transit agencies. Three Kansas communities fall within the population threshold for STIC, including Lawrence, Topeka and Manhattan. When a public transit agency exceeds the average service level of a large transit agency, it is rewarded with additional federal transit investment. This funding has allowed smaller transit systems to fund projects that increase the efficiency and capacity of public transportation nationwide. Full text of the legislation can be found HERE. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=B1090019-1D2D-43D5-9163-13C8037A5CE8,Sen. Moran Statement on Ukraine & Russia Peace Negotiations,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement regarding the negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to end the unjust war in Ukraine: “As negotiations move forward, the administration must make certain Ukraine is equipped with the tools needed to defend its people and territory against ongoing aggression and demand meaningful, enduring security guarantees for Kyiv. Lasting peace will be achieved when the costs of continuing the war in Ukraine are unsustainable for Russia, not by acceding to Vladimir Putin’s demands. Any other result makes the world a more dangerous place.” Sen. Moran has consistently emphasized the importance of U.S. support for Ukraine in their fight against Russian aggression. Click here to watch his latest remarks on the Senate floor, urging continued pressure on Russia. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=41FF3640-8F71-443B-996E-2A9664D110E0,Sen. Moran Urges USDA Secretary Rollins to Exempt NBAF from Federal Hiring Freeze,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry – called on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins to pursue an exemption from the federal hiring freeze to hire necessary staff at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. Sen. Moran recently hosted USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden in Manhattan to highlight the critical research occurring at NBAF and Kansas State University’s Biosecurity Research Institute. “On a recent tour of the facility, USDA staff highlighted the efforts being made to finish critical repairs and bring NBAF to its full operational capacity,” wrote Sen. Moran. “A lack of staff in both science and operational roles will hinder NBAF's function and mission, threatening national food and agriculture security.” “The work of your staff has already shortened the timeline for NBAF to come fully online, and I commend you on making food security a priority for USDA,” concluded Sen. Moran. “Prompt action on this matter ensures this timeline stays on track. I look forward to working with you on this matter to ensure NBAF fulfills its role as the world's premiere biosecurity facility.” The full letter can be found here or below. Dear Secretary Rollins: I write to you today to request you urgently pursue an exemption from the federal hiring freeze for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) and use whatever authorities you possess to expedite the hiring of critical positions. On a recent tour of the facility, USDA staff highlighted the efforts being made to finish critical repairs and bring NBAF to its full operational capacity. I appreciated Deputy Secretary Vaden and other members of your team joining me on that tour, as well as the Deputy Secretary’s interest in ensuring NBAF has the personnel and resources it needs to be successful and the commitment to working with us toward that goal. A lack of staff in both science and operational roles will hinder NBAF's function and mission, threatening national food and agriculture security. The work of your staff has already shortened the timeline for NBAF to come fully online, and I commend you on making food security a priority for USDA. Prompt action on this matter ensures this timeline stays on track. I look forward to working with you on this matter to ensure NBAF fulfills its role as the world's premiere biosecurity facility. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-celebrates-national-rural-health-day,Rep. Mann Celebrates National Rural Health Day,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s remarks. CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s remarks on YouTube. WASHINGTON, D.C. – In honor of National Rural Health Day, Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) took to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize rural health care workers, hospitals, service providers, clinics, community health centers, and all those who contribute to rural health in the Big First District. Rep. Mann also touted Congressional Republicans and President Trump's historic $50 billion investment into Rural Health Transformation Program and the life changing impact the program will have on Americans in rural communities. Rep. Mann's congressional district consists of 60 primarily rural counties in Kansas and has more critical access hospitals than any other district in the country. Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared: Mr. Speaker, this Thursday, America will celebrate National Rural Health Day. As the representative of 60 primarily rural counties, and the congressional district with more critical access hospitals than any other district in the country, I understand full well the importance of adequate, quality health care for all communities. Earlier this year, I proudly supported the Working Families Tax Cuts which established the Rural Health Transformation Program. This legislation made the single largest investment into rural health care in nearly two decades and will be life changing for the men and women who call rural communities like the ones I represent home. The $50 billion in the Rural Health Transformation Program will better position rural health care facilities to embrace innovative technologies while improving the way health care is delivered, strengthening health outcomes, and ensuring the health of rural Americans reaches its full potential. The quality of care that Americans receive should not and cannot depend on their zip code. By investing in the Rural Health Transformation Program and putting safeguards around the Medicaid program to guarantee it serves the vulnerable patients it was intended to serve, this Republican majority has taken historic strides to strengthen rural health care. Rural communities are the backbone of America, and I am proud to have supported this legislation to ensure they have access to the highest quality care. This National Rural Health Month, I recognize and thank the dedicated rural health care workers, hospitals, service providers, clinics, and community health centers that serve as pillars in providing health services and lifesaving care to Kansans in rural America and work to ensure they receive the care they deserve. Keep up the hard work and thank you again for all you do for our neighbors in rural America. Happy National Rural Health Month. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-honors-sergeant-scott-william-heimann-house-floor,Rep. Mann Honors Sergeant Scott William Heimann on the House Floor,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s remarks. CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s remarks on YouTube. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to honor the life of Sergeant Scott William Heimann. For nine years, Sergeant Heimann served as a member of the Hays Police Department. He passed on September 28, 2025. Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared: Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Sergeant Scott William Heimann. A loyal husband, a devoted father, a beloved son, and an invaluable member of the Hays, Kansas community, Scott paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting the community that he loved and served. On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Scott’s watch ended far too soon when he was shot and killed while responding to a domestic violence call. On behalf of Kansans in the Big First District, I would like to say thank you for your service. Scott served with the Hays Police Department for nine years. Throughout his time, he served on the Special Situation Response Team, High-Tech Crime Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Honor Guard. Scott took pride in wearing the Hays Police Department uniform. He was never above serving the community he lived in whether his task was reading books to students at the library or responding to the most dangerous threats that posed a risk to his neighbors. There was no task too big or too small in his eyes. Audrey and I mourn with the Hays community and continue to pray for them as they come to terms with this tragedy. We especially pray for Scott’s wife, Beth, his beautiful children, Victoria and Patrick, and all his loved ones who he left behind. The Bible tells us in Psalm 34 that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. As the reality of Scott’s untimely passing sets in, I ask that the Lord would be close to his family, wrap His arms around this grieving community, and provide comfort. Well done, Sergeant Heimann. May your soul rest in peace. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=003F6D65-0DBB-446F-AA78-E013E0E9D059,Sen. Moran Joins Colleagues in Introducing the Mental Health in Aviation Act,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation, joined his colleagues Sens. John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill) in introducing the Mental Health in Aviation Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) approach to mental health and medical certification. The Mental Health in Aviation Act improves aviation safety by ensuring both pilots and air traffic controllers can seek mental health care without fear of reprisal and while reducing the stigma associated with mental health. “Pilots and air traffic controllers bear a major responsibility in ensuring the safety of the flying public, a task that can be extremely stressful,” said Sen. Moran. “No one should have to deal with mental health challenges alone or worry that seeking help could harm their career. This legislation would help break down barriers, allowing pilots and air traffic controllers to access the resources and support they need, when they need it, and improve the safety of the aviation system.” “It’s imperative that our pilots, air traffic controllers and aviation professionals have access to the resources they need to maintain their mental health,” said Sen. Hoeven. “The Mental Health in Aviation Act seeks to address mental health issues throughout the aviation industry, promote early intervention, provide additional resources to the FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine, and support the well-being of aviation professionals and the overall safety of our skies.” “Pilots and air traffic controllers often operate under immense amounts of stress—pursuing mental health care shouldn’t be a career-ending decision,” said Sen. Duckworth. “The fear and hesitancy around reporting mental health conditions and accessing care is hurting our pilots and isn’t making our skies any safer—reforms are critically needed. I’m proud to introduce the Mental Health in Aviation Act with Senator Hoeven, commonsense legislation to help improve aviation safety and reduce bureaucratic delays and overregulation that can create a dangerous culture of silence and stigma around mental health.” This legislation was also cosponsored by Sens. Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), John Curtis (R-Utah), and Jack Reed (D-R.I.). The Mental Health in Aviation Act is the Senate companion to the House of Representatives bill, H.R. 2591, introduced by Reps. Sean Casten (D-Ill.) and Pete Stauber’s (R-Minn.) bill. H.R. 2591 passed the House of Representatives unanimously on September 8, 2025. Under current FAA regulations, pilots and air traffic controllers are required to obtain and maintain a FAA Medical Certification, which requires the disclosure of medical treatment, including for mental and behavioral health treatment. Once disclosed, even pilots with minor or well-managed conditions can face prolonged uncertainty and bureaucratic delays as they work through the existing processes that allow for treatment and safe return to operation. Further, the FAA has limited psychiatric staff to process pilot mental health evaluations, compounding the bureaucratic delays and leading to a significant backlog of special issuance applications. The Mental Health in Aviation Act builds on the recommendations made by the FAA at the Mental Health and Aviation Medical Clearances Rulemaking Committee (ARC) in 2023 to assess barriers for pilots and controllers to acknowledge, seek care and treatment, and report mental health concerns, and to develop and implement policy and protocol recommendations. Specifically, the legislation would require the FAA to: Modernize mental health guidance regulations for pilots and air traffic controllers to encourage the early disclosure and treatment of mental health conditions, and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in aviation. Annually review the FAA’s Special Issuance Medical Certification process, appropriate mental health treatments and medication use, and overall mental health training for Aviation Medical Examiners. Allocate $15 million annually (FY2026–FY2029) to the FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine to expand and train additional medical examiners, including specialists, to improve the efficiency of the FAA’s Special Issuance Medical Certification process. Allocate $1.5 million annually (FY2026–FY2029) for a public information campaign to help reduce the stigma around mental health care in aviation and encourage pilots and air traffic controllers to seek treatment. Full text and a summary of the Mental Health in Aviation Act can be found here and here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=9E257801-A132-4E20-BCCE-34C6B30DCC41,Sen. Moran Applauds Unanimous Passage of Bill to Boost Broadband Supply Chain,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) applauded the Senate passage of his legislation, the Network Equipment Transparency (NET) Act, to increase broadband supply chain transparency through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to make certain federal broadband programs stay on track. The bill passed the Senate unanimously and now heads to the House of Representatives to be passed. Sen. Moran introduced this legislation with Sens. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.). “Rural communities in Kansas and across the country rely heavily on access to high-speed internet,” said Sen. Moran. “In this digital age, the success of family farms, businesses and even health care in rural America can depend on reliable internet. Adding transparency to the supply chains that support broadband infrastructure projects will help speed up the rollout of programs designed to increase internet activity for rural communities. I’m pleased by the passage of the NET Act in the Senate, and I urge the House of Representatives to approve this important legislation.” “Supply chain disruptions hold back our efforts to connect every household to affordable, high-speed internet,” said Sen. Hickenlooper. “Senate passage brings us a step closer to ensuring broadband projects from our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are completed on time.” “In order to effectively connect our communities, it’s critical that our federal agencies work to address any potential problems that would slow or hinder this process of deployment,” said Sen. Capito. “I’m thrilled that the NET Act passed, bringing us closer to being able to monitor the supply chain so these crucial projects can be executed in a timely manner.” “Resilient, efficient supply chains are essential to keeping prices low and ensuring Americans can get the products they need, and that includes broadband internet,” said Sen. Peters. “This bipartisan bill would fortify the investments we made in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand high-speed, affordable internet by identifying issues in the broadband supply chain early, before they impact American businesses, workers, and consumers. I’ll continue to fight for high-speed internet access for all Michiganders.” Previous supply chain disruptions have delayed broadband infrastructure projects, underscoring the need for transparency regarding the health of the telecommunications supply chain to avoid future equipment shortages as federal broadband programs prioritize high-speed, reliable and accessible networks. Specifically, the bill would require the FCC’s Communications Marketplace Report to describe to Congress the impact of supply chain disruptions on the timely completion or deployment of broadband infrastructure projects. The full text of the legislation can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7272,ICYMI: Estes Questions CBO Director About Agency Transparency at Budget Hearing,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) questioned Congressional Budget Office (CBO) Director Dr. Phillip Swagel at a Budget Committee hearing titled “Oversight of the Congressional Budget Office” on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Read his remarks below and watch here. Remarks as Delivered Dr. Swagel, thank you for being here. I know it’s maybe sometimes positive and negative in terms of talking about the things you do and our things we want to celebrate, [or] things we want to criticize or complain about. I know a lot of our discussion today is about transparency, and I think it’s very important as we talk about the agency and the existence for the last 50 years and how important a role the CBO plays in the legislative process. As the designated scorekeepers, it’s important that your reports [and] analysis are available. They have a dramatic impact on bills that come through the House and the Senate – as well as the public perception of what we pass and decisions we make regarding legislation. We need to make sure that CBO works to improve scores, to actually make sure that they align with reality. Like any estimate, there’s going to be some variation. Ideally, you want to minimize that variation up or down within closest tolerance as possible. Unfortunately, as we’ve talked about previously in the committee room, CBO sometimes falls short of making those good estimates that help us make decisions. The biggest example I guess, most current, is that the Congressional Budget Office estimated the score for major pieces of legislation like the Democrats’ Inflation Act. The Energy and Climate provisions in that bill were estimated by CBO at $391 billion, but estimates by Credit Suisse were double at $800 billion, and Goldman Sachs came out with $1.2 trillion. I will note that shortly after the vote was passed, CBO did revise its estimates up through that process. My struggle, and I think a lot of our struggle, is that we’re literally making trillion-dollar decisions based on this information, so we want to make sure it’s the best possible. There [are] other examples we could talk about in terms of inflation estimates or budget deficit estimates. We need to make sure that we are as accurate as possible. One of the things … I think we’ve talked about in other conversations and hearings is some of the executive actions and some of the decisions around executive actions. I know that was a big description that was used in the trillion-dollar myths a year ago, with some of the discussions around that. At the end of the day, we really want to make sure we’re transparent in these things. As I’ve talked about before, working on legislation that would actually require CBO to calculate through the baseline or include in the baseline an update on separate tables detailing some of those judicial or executive actions that have been issued since the last publication that would have a momentous amount – $50 billion or more. Looking at, how do we finalize executive orders and the impacts through that? I know there’s a whole bunch of things that we talk about, and you’ve been hit with a lot of things, ranging from health care and other issues and talking about estimates for economic growth. In my work on Ways and Means, I pushed a lot on research and development and how R&D and other innovative ideas help grow the economy. How can we work moving forward? I want to give you an opportunity to at least have some comments on maybe proposals around executive actions or other things. How do we narrow down the estimates to more closely react and be able to refine that process?",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-applauds-wotus-proposal,Rep. Mann Applauds WOTUS Proposal,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) applauded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of the Army's proposed rule to clarify the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS). Rep. Mann released the following statement after the announcement. “America’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers always have been and always will be the original conservationists of the land,” said Rep. Mann. ""While Washington bureaucrats would love to regulate every pond, ditch, and puddle from east to west, the Trump Administration's proposed WOTUS rule is a return to common sense. When government shrinks, freedom expands. This clear definition is a win for Kansas agriculture and private landowners and will restore certainty where it is long overdue."" Upon publication in the Federal Register, the proposed rule will be open for a 45-day public comment period. Earlier this year, Rep. Mann commended the Trump Administration for their decision to revise WOTUS in a clear, simplified direction. Rep. Mann has consistently fought against the abuse of the WOTUS rule. In December 2022, Rep. Mann blasted the Biden Administration’s definition of WOTUS that expanded water to include ponds and streams. In January 2023, Rep. Mann led efforts to pressure the Biden Administration to rescind their premature WOTUS rule ahead of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. In March 2023, Rep. Mann voted to advance a Congressional Review Act to overturn the Biden Administration’s rule. After President Biden vetoed the bill, Rep. Mann voted to override that veto and defend America’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers. Following the Supreme Court’s May 2023 ruling in Sackett v. EPA, Rep. Mann applauded the Court’s unanimous decision to restrict EPA’s overreach. In August 2023, Rep. Mann fired back at the Biden Administration’s revised WOTUS rule that removed the “significant nexus” standard for determining whether wetlands or waters are covered by the Clean Water Act. Rep. Mann also introduced legislation to establish an advisory committee at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to examine the impact of the WOTUS rule and overreaching regulations on agriculture production and the food supply chain. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=28D16566-5D1F-45B9-BD3E-44C173BBF1D8,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Leads Hearing on Consequences of Government Shutdown on U.S. Aviation & Travel,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today led a hearing to examine the consequences of the recent 43-day government shutdown on the U.S. aviation system and how to make certain the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) can be insulated from the impacts of possible future shutdowns. “We convened this hearing because of the importance of the aviation and travel industry, a vital component of our nation’s economy, and trying to find ways to make certain that industry is stable, including in difficult times like a government shutdown,” said Sen. Moran. “We must do our part to enable the FAA and the Department of Transportation to make certain that America remains the standard for aviation and air safety.” “I introduced legislation in many Congresses that allows for the continuation of essential FAA activities in the future shutdowns,” continued Sen. Moran. “By examining the delays, the cancelations, the staffing triggers and certification interruptions, we are laying the groundwork to support an industry that is critical to our country.” In March, Sen. Moran introduced the Aviation Funding Stability Act, which would provide certainty for the aviation industry during lapses in government funding by allowing the FAA to access funds to continue its critical operations and pay air traffic controllers. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Opening Remarks Sen. Moran’s remarks as delivered: “I’m pleased to be here, and I thank our witnesses for joining us this afternoon for what I hope is a valuable discussion and expect to be a valuable discussion. We convened this hearing because of the importance of the aviation and travel industry, a vital component of our nation’s economy, and trying to find ways to make certain that industry is stable, including in difficult times like a government shutdown. “That stability is severely inhibited by the critical functions at the Federal Aviation Administration – when they’re suspended or when they’re interrupted, and when Congress fails to act, the FAA and the aviation industry suffer. “I am pleased that the cancelations and delays plaguing our flights, airlines and airports are easing. One of the witnesses and I were on a flight that was delayed, but only for mechanical reasons this week, which has been different than it was previously. Our air traffic controllers are reporting to work and other essential activities at the FAA are back underway. “Thanksgiving, however, is just a few days away, and while we anticipate the airlines will be fully – or nearly fully – recovered come next week, lingering strain and fatigue on the system perhaps is to be expected. Roughly 31 million passengers are expected to fly next week for the holiday, but there may be lingering impacts on the system because of the shutdown. I look forward to the former Governor, Governor Sununu, speaking to us this afternoon, hopefully providing us with a roadmap as to what Americans flying next week will expect from the airlines. “Last week, the U.S. Travel Association noted that more than $6 billion were lost in travel spending because of the inability to fly. We cannot afford, I’m sure the airlines and others, the people who work in the airports and in aviation, cannot further afford the instability and chaos. “Our recent inaction in Washington has undoubtedly deterred young people from pursuing careers as air traffic controllers or other aviation professionals—a workforce we must prioritize. “I hope that consideration of the fiscal year 2026 THUD – the transportation appropriation bill – will begin in the Senate this week. That is the plan, and we’re working to try to accomplish that, and it will lay a groundwork for Congress to fully fund the Department of Transportation and the FAA with the resources it needs. “Senate appropriators passed the THUD bill in July by a vote of 27 to 1 – very bipartisan demonstration there. Within this bill, we provided the Department of Transportation nearly $26 billion and the FAA nearly $20 billion between their operations and facility and equipment accounts, which fund air traffic control and modernization activities. This funding is in part there to allow Secretary Duffy and Administrator Bedford to modernize our national airspace system after decades of insufficient budget requests that merely sustained an outdated system. This issue received particular attention by me on January 29th, when the tragic circumstances occurred involving a flight from Wichita, Kansas, to DCA occurred. It was a moment that this Congress, this subcommittee and the administration all gathered around the idea of improving the safety of our airways. “We must do our part to enable the FAA and the Department of Transportation to make certain that America remains the standard for aviation and air safety. The sole integrator of the brand-new air traffic control system is set to be announced soon and will fully fund the Department of Transportation for FY26. It’s a necessary step to modernizing our airspace. We will hear from industry about ways to potentially insulate the FAA from future government shutdowns. “I introduced legislation in many Congresses that allows for the continuation of essential FAA activities in the event of future shutdowns. By examining the delays, the cancelations, the staffing triggers and certification interruptions, we are laying the groundwork to better support an industry that is critical to our country. Again, I thank all of our witnesses for being here, and I look forward to this discussion.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7269,Estes Reacts to Proposed WOTUS Rule,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. ""For too long, overzealous bureaucrats in Washington have tried to micromanage the ponds and puddles in Kansas without regard for the conservation work of the men and women who care for the land each and every day,"" said Rep. Estes. ""The newly proposed WOTUS rule promotes clean water without inhibiting ag and energy producers and landowners. It upholds the Supreme Court's Sackett decision and works with Kansas farmers and ranchers, not against them, to be good stewards of our natural resources – something they've been doing for generations."" Background: March 2025 – Rep. Estes Applauds EPA Announcement November 2023 – Rep. Ron Estes Praises Restrictions to WOTUS, Limits on Lesser Prairie-Chicken Listing in Appropriations Bill August 2023 – Rep. Estes Condemns Revised WOTUS Rule May 2023 – Rep. Estes Celebrates WOTUS Win for Kansas March 2023 – Rep. Estes Votes to End Disastrous WOTUS Rule December 2022 – Rep. Estes Denounces New WOTUS Rule",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7270,"Estes Votes for Transparency, Protecting Victims in Epstein Files",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after voting in favor of providing greater transparency into the Epstein files while urging the Department of Justice to exercise extreme sensitivity regarding victims. ""Americans rightfully have a lot of questions surrounding the despicable Jeffrey Epstein, which is why I've supported the Oversight Committee's work to release tens of thousands of documents into the public already and why I voted to support today's resolution to instruct the Department of Justice to release files related to the investigation,"" said Rep. Estes. ""This is a vital step to restoring the foundational principle of transparency at all levels of government and a statement that abuse of any kind cannot be tolerated or excused. The responsibility of transparency also carries a responsibility of profound sensitivity regarding innocent victims, which is why I urge the DOJ to avoid the release of potentially graphic evidence that would only compound the trauma these individuals have already endured. Our commitment to justice requires both disclosure of critical facts and protection of innocent victims.""",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=46FDC50A-C743-4B1B-B03E-A14663A1FE7E,Sen. Moran to Hold Hearing on Harmful Impacts to U.S. Aviation System Caused by Government Shutdown,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today announced he will convene a hearing to examine the harmful consequences to the U.S. aviation system caused by the recent government shutdown, and its impacts on the air traffic control system, airlines operations and training. The hearing will be held on Wednesday, November 19th, at 2:30 p.m. ET. “The government shutdown has severely impacted our already fragile aviation industry, and recovering from its effects will take time,” said Chairman Moran. “Earlier this year, we witnessed the vulnerabilities of our air system – all of which have been exacerbated by this shutdown – when a series of failures led to the mid-air collision on January 29, claiming 67 lives. As a result of the longest shutdown in American history, it was necessary for FAA to decrease the number of flights at major airports across the country. It’s critical that we address the damage done and look at the long-term effects of the shutdown. I look forward to discussing with industry how Congress can work to alleviate the strain on air traffic controllers and TSA agents, as well as ensure safety for passengers and sustainable operations for our airlines, general and business aviation stakeholders.” Witnesses: Mr. Nick Daniels, President, National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) Former Governor Chris Sununu, President and Chief Executive Officer, Airlines for America (A4A) Mr. Jim Viola, President and Chief Executive Officer, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Additional witnesses may be announced at a later date. Hearing Details: WHAT: Full Committee Hearing titled “Flying on Empty: How Shutdowns Threaten Air Safety, Travel, and the Economy” WHEN: Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. ET LOCATION: Commerce Committee Hearing Room, Russell Senate Office Building, Room 253 LIVESTREAM: The hearing will be livestreamed on the Senate Commerce Committee website and YouTube. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=772B6E5E-01B3-440D-A9FE-8A77594A5165,Sen. Moran Introduces Legislation to Increase Access to Affordable Housing,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) reintroduced the Affordable Housing Expansion Act, legislation that would help address the shortage of affordable housing options by making targeted reforms to requirements under the Davis-Bacon Act, a 1930s-era labor law. These reforms would reduce labor costs and administrative burdens on residential construction contractors, which would free up capital that could be redirected toward building additional affordable housing. “Buying a home is a part of the American dream that is currently out of reach for many families,” said Sen. Moran. “Reducing the burden of federal regulations will help homebuilders meet the demand for new homes, making homeownership a reality for more Kansans.” ""The Davis-Bacon Act creates overly burdensome contractor mandates on federal assisted projects, by setting wage requirements that misrepresent real wages being paid in any given county,"" said Wess Galyon, President Emeritus of the Wichita Area Builders Association. ""The current rules result in higher direct labor costs on projects, and indirect costs related to administrative compliance and reporting. In addition to discouraging the promotion of affordable housing projects, these costs ultimately get passed on and drive housing affordability in the wrong direction. Reducing these burdens will make housing more attainable for more Americans, and we applaud Senator Moran for introducing this legislation."" “NAHB commends Senator Moran for introducing this bill, which will help lower housing costs by streamlining and modernizing Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements,” said Buddy Hughes, Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). “A Berkley study found that prevailing wage requirements raise construction costs by more than $30 per square foot. This means that current Davis-Bacon requirements are increasing construction costs by an at least $27,000 for an average 900 square foot apartment, which ultimately translates into higher rents. To solve the housing affordability crisis affecting our communities, Congress needs to look at all the factors driving up housing costs. The nation’s home builders strongly support this legislation.” “The Mortgage Bankers Association commends Senator Moran for once again taking action to improve and encourage access to quality affordable housing,” said Bill Killmer, Senior Vice President of Legislative and Political Affairs of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). “The improper application of Davis-Bacon wage rates is an unnecessary barrier to the modernization and development of multifamily housing, and this bill will help reduce the administrative burden and complexity for residential housing projects. MBA will continue to advocate on behalf of policies that both ensure a healthy real estate market and provide consumers with sustainable housing choices.” “The Affordable Housing Expansion Act removes unnecessary barriers to construction and improves taxpayer value,” said Kristen Swearingen, Vice President of Government Affairs of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). “By modernizing the Davis-Bacon wage determination process and reducing compliance burdens, this bill provides contractors, workers and taxpayers with accurate and clearly defined rates. ABC commends Sen. Moran for his leadership and urges Congress to advance this commonsense proposal.” Background: Enacted in 1931, the Davis-Bacon Act requires construction contractors involved in certain federally funded or federally assisted construction contracts, like those participating in various federal housing programs, to pay individuals working on the contract at least the prevailing wages of the vicinity in which the construction project is located. As it stands, the Davis-Bacon Act can disincentivize the construction of affordable housing due to the high costs it places on construction contractors and the administrative burden that accompanies it. The U.S. Department of Labor sets these prevailing wage rates by reviewing data submitted by construction contractors through voluntary surveys, which can be, at times, inaccurate or inconsistent. Full text of the legislation can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7263,Estes Releases Statement After End of Democrat Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement after the Democrat shutdown, led by Senator Chuck Schumer, ended. Rep. Estes voted alongside his House Republican colleagues to fund the government on Sept. 19, but Senate Democrats kept the government closed for six weeks. “For 43 painful days, Senate Democrats held our government hostage and demanded we give in to their radical political agenda, causing the longest government shutdown in American history,” said Rep. Estes. “Tonight, I voted with my House Republican colleagues on the final passage of the funding bill. With the government back open, Congressional Republicans are ready to enact President Trump’s priorities and continue delivering wins for Kansans and the American people.”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-votes-end-longest-shutdown-us-history,Rep. Mann Votes to End Longest Shutdown in U.S. History,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026, and reopen the federal government. H.R. 5371 passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 222-209. Rep. Mann released a statement after the vote. “For 43 days, Washington Democrats have kept the federal government closed as they threw a temper tantrum and demanded that Congress adopt radical policy proposals like taxpayer-funded health care for illegal immigrants,” said Rep. Mann. “Everyday Americans paid the price for Democrats’ political theatre with delayed government benefits, missed paychecks, and chaos across our nation’s airports. I proudly voted to bring this shutdown to an end once and for all. The hardworking men and women who are the backbone of our country should not have their lives upended in exchange for Democrats’ pandering to their leftist base. I’m hopeful Congress can put Americans first and get back to passing the agenda that House Republicans were elected to deliver on."" On September 19, 2025, Rep. Mann supported the House continuing resolution to fund the federal government. Shortly after the federal government closed, Rep. Mann published an op-ed underscoring the toll the shutdown put on American families. The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act will now go to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-statement-house-vote-reopen-federal-government,Rep. Derek Schmidt statement on House vote to reopen the federal government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (November 12, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) tonight issued the following statement on the House’s vote to reopen the federal government: “This long, unnecessary, and harmful federal government shutdown is finally about to end. On September 19, I voted to keep our government open, and tonight—after nearly two months of wrangling in the United States Senate–I voted to reopen it so our troops, people who rely on nutrition assistance, federal employees and contractors, the flying public, and many other Kansans whose lives have been disrupted can begin returning to normal. As I have said many times, this shutdown should have never happened. I appreciate the eight Senate Democrats who finally were willing to break with their party so that much-needed government functions and services resume. “The bill that we sent to President Trump tonight will not only temporarily fund the government through January, but also funds key programs for Kansas for the entire 2026 fiscal year. That includes fully funding veterans’ services, farm programs and nutrition assistance that now have full-year certainty and stability. I am particularly pleased that we were able to increase total funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs by $38 billion over last year’s funding level. “I am hopeful Congress will now use the next two months to proceed under the regular order of finalizing full-year funding for the remaining government agencies and programs. No more hostage-taking, no more demands for backroom deals. Just line-by-line scrutiny of the federal budget and a continued focus on restraining the unsustainable spending growth that has put us $38 trillion in debt and fueled the out-of-control inflation of the past four years. The American people deserve far better than these past two months.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F44CF4C8-A55C-4517-A758-554C57C7D0F9,Sen. Moran Statement on the Passing of Don McChesney,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement on the passing of Don McChesney: “I’m saddened by the passing of Don McChesney, someone who lived a life of character, kindness and dedication to his community and his neighbors. He loved his work as the curator of the High Banks Hall of Fame and National Midget Auto Racing Museum, a place he was instrumental in founding and where he loved to share his passion for auto racing and history with the community. He leaves behind a legacy of investment in others and an enthusiasm for life and learning. Robba and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Karol, his family and all who knew and loved him.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=DD0438AD-7D96-4784-BB1E-EE4B63A48245,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Rings Nasdaq Opening Bell in Honor of Veterans Day with Marines & Veterans,2025-11-11,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"NEW YORK – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – rang the Nasdaq Exchange Opening Bell today in honor of Veterans Day with members of the U.S. Marine Corps and veterans on board the USS Intrepid in New York City. During the ceremony, Sen. Moran paid tribute to his father, Raymond Edwin Moran, a World War II veteran who served in the Army in North Africa and Italy. “Across America, from the prairies of my home state of Kansas to the skyline of New York City, people are expressing their gratitude and respect for those who serve our country today and for those who served our country in the past,” said Sen. Moran. “I think sometimes we think we have no heroes. But we look to the basketball courts and the amphitheaters of musicians, whenever the person that we work with, or down the hall, or across the street, served our nation in uniform.” “It wasn’t too long ago that I was at the World War II Memorial, and I went to the Kansas pillar, and I thought of my dad back home in small-town western Kansas who was a World War II veteran, so I called him on my flip phone,” continued Sen. Moran. “Fortunately, I got the answering machine, and I said, ‘Dad, I’m at the World War II Memorial, built in your honor, and I want you to know that I respect you, I thank you for your service, Dad, and I love you.’ ” “We stand together as Americans, and say to those who serve in uniform, and those who served us in the past, we respect you, we thank you for your service, and we love you,” concluded Sen. Moran. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Remarks During Nasdaq Opening Bell To download a full video of the ceremony, click HERE. Sen. Moran’s remarks as delivered: “It’s such a privilege to be here on this Veterans Day. Across America, from the prairies of my home state of Kansas to the skyline of New York City, people are expressing their gratitude and respect for those who serve our country today and for those who served our country in the past. “Our country needs role models, needs to see what those who put country above self, or above politics, or above party, what difference they made, and we need to role model ourselves after them. “I think sometimes we think we have no heroes. But we look to the basketball courts and the amphitheaters of musicians, whenever the person that we work with, or down the hall, or across the street, served our nation in uniform. And today is the day, as we should every day, when we say, thank you for your service. “It wasn’t too long ago that I was at the World War II Memorial, and I went to the Kansas pillar, and I thought of my dad back home in small town western Kansas who was a World War II veteran, so I called him on my flip phone. Fortunately, I got the answering machine, and I said, ‘Dad, I’m at the World War II Memorial, built in your honor, and I want you to know that I respect you, I thank you for your service, Dad, and I love you.’ “On my way to walking back to my office, my flip phone rang again. It was my dad, and he said, ‘Gerald, what did you say? I couldn’t understand you.’ And so, I repeat what I told my dad today, because I can no longer repeat it to him. “And on behalf of all Americans, we on this day, and everyday hereafter, we stand together as Americans, and say to those who serve in uniform, and those who served us in the past, we respect you, we thank you for your service, and we love you. God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=BBD9222A-D1E6-476E-B5A9-31D0F28843E7,PASSED: Appropriations Package & Short-term Funding Deal to Reopen the Government,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee – tonight voted to pass an appropriations package that included federal investments for Kansas military capabilities at Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth and other Kansas priorities. This package includes a short-term continuing resolution that will reopen and fund the entire federal government until January 30, 2026. This legislation now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives to be passed. “After weeks of stalemate in the U.S. Senate, we voted tonight to advance three annual appropriations bills and a short-term funding bill – a major step towards reopening the government,” said Sen. Moran. “I helped secure federal resources to make significant investments in Kansas to modernize infrastructure across our state and bolster defense capabilities at Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth. This legislation also included annual federal funding for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Agriculture, allowing the continued operation of critical programs like SNAP and WIC. The impacts of the government shutdown won’t be immediately resolved, but I will continue working to make certain our aviation system and those who keep it running are supplied with the resources they need. Congress must work diligently to pass the remaining appropriations bills before the end of January to prevent another useless and unnecessary shutdown.” New Investments Secured for Fort Riley: $26 million for Fort Riley to construct a new Air Traffic Control Tower. $5.5 million for Fort Riley’s Intermodal Railyard Access Control Facility to modernize the security infrastructure surrounding the Fort Riley intermodal railyard. $2.6 million for Fort Riley’s Intermodal Railyard Staging Area to improve the staging area at the Fort Riley intermodal railyard, allowing the 1st Infantry Division to position equipment for more efficient loading and unloading onto the rail line; this improvement supports the 1st Infantry Division’s rapid deployment requirements. New Investments Secured for Fort Leavenworth: $8 million for Fort Leavenworth to add a new fire station to support faster response time to fires on the post. $900,000 for Fort Leavenworth to update the current facility which is inadequate and has been used for several years beyond its expected lifespan. Additional New Investments Secured for Kansas: $4.2 million for Rattlesnake Creek Watershed to provide long-term, sustainable agricultural water management within the Rattlesnake Creek subbasin. $1.8 million to support the new nursing program at Barclay College.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=3D2D914B-2B7F-41D3-AB8C-5877090DF4BA,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Speaks on Senate Floor on Harmful Impacts of Government Shutdown on U.S. Aviation,2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation and a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee – spoke on the Senate floor tonight on the harmful impacts of the government shutdown on U.S. aviation and to urge the passage of a clean spending bill to reopen the government. The ongoing government shutdown is the longest in history. “Exactly one month ago today, I stood on the Senate floor and spoke about the impact that the government shutdown was having on an already troubled aviation system,” said Sen. Moran. “And that the traveling public was facing tremendous challenges with that shutdown, and I cautioned against prolonging it. Now thirty days later, we’re still here."" “Thanksgiving is only eighteen days away,” continued Sen. Moran. “Americans are purchasing, or would have purchased, or have already purchased tickets to be with their families. If we remain in a shutdown much longer, it will become increasingly difficult for airlines to deliver on their promises to their customers.” “The circumstances we are in cannot continue,” said Sen. Moran. “We must reopen the government. I urge my colleagues to pass a clean, continuing resolution to reopen the government.” Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks Sen. Moran’s full remarks as delivered: “Exactly one month ago today, I stood on the Senate floor and spoke about the impact that the government shutdown was having on an already troubled aviation system, and that the traveling public was facing tremendous challenges with that shutdown, and I cautioned against prolonging it. Now thirty days later, we’re still here. “I was concerned that if the shutdown continued, it could force the closure of parts of our airspace and lead to further reductions in the air traffic controller workforce. Unfortunately, both these concerns have materialized in what has become the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history. With 2,300 cancelations and counting today, Sunday, it will go down as one of the worst days in air travel. I’ve never seen anything good come from a government shutdown. “Lapses in federal funding have made it harder for families to access SNAP benefits, HEAD START programs have been put on pause and thousands of federal employees are unable to receive a paycheck. This disfunction is damaging enough to our constituents and economy here at home, but it also sends a dangerous message to the watching world. It demonstrates to our allies that we are an unreliable partner, and it signals to our adversaries that we can’t work together to meet even the most fundamental responsibilities of Congress. “As this shutdown continue, I want to particularly focus on the impact that this lapsed funding is having on the aviation industry. TSA Agents and air traffic controllers have had to continue working while missing two paychecks. It’s a stressful job, and one that has grown increasingly more difficult throughout the year. “Combine that with uncertainty on how to pay rent, put food on the table and gas in your car, it is no surprise that we’re seeing more and more controllers not show up to work. We are already facing a shortage of controllers and now we are seeing more having to pick up second jobs to pay the bills or seeing some quit entirely. Our inaction and our inability to gain consensus are deterring young people interested in futures such as air traffic controllers or other aviation professionals from pursuing those careers. “The vulnerabilities in our aviation system have led Secretary Sean Duffy to begin reducing flights by 10 percent at 40 major airports. Airlines, businesses and general aviation alike are cutting into their operations to make certain that airspace is as safe as possible. It is critical to know that these impacts are not lopsided on those high traffic areas. Small and medium hub airports, such as we have in Kansas, that connect to those 40, are experiencing this pain just as much. While this is a painful step, it is necessary for the safety of the traveling public, and I support Secretary Duffy’s decision. “American Airlines indicated to me they have canceled more than 240 flights yesterday, and delayed more than a thousand flights, impacting more than 150,000 passengers. Airlines for America said that staffing shortages disrupted the flights of more than 4 million passengers from October 1st to November 7th on their partner airlines. And that was before the mandatory reductions were put in place by the Department of Transportation. We can expect more cuts if we do not reopen the government. “We saw how fragile our air system is – and it’s the reason I highlight aviation and the consequences of the shutdown tonight. We saw how fragile our air system earlier this year when a series of failures led to a midair collision on January the 29th, which claimed the lives of 67, including those of Kansas. “That accident forced Congress and our nation to reckon with an issue that has plagued us for decades: why have we not effectively modernized our air space system? Since that crash, steps have been taken to train more controllers and improve the aviation system, including a $12.5 billion dollar investment in modernizing our air space, but those efforts are becoming much more difficult to accomplish during a shutdown. “Unfortunately, the position the aviation industry finds itself in today cannot be easily solved, but we cannot even begin to solve it unless we reopen the government. Every day we remain shut down the fragility of this system intensifies. “Thanksgiving is only eighteen days away. Americans are purchasing, or would have purchased, or have already purchased tickets to be with their families. If we remain in a shutdown much longer, it will become increasingly difficult for airlines to deliver on their promises to their customers. “The circumstances we are in cannot continue. We must reopen the government. I urge my colleagues to pass a clean, continuing resolution to reopen the government. I’m committed to working with my colleagues to address the concerns they have, and any issues brought forth by the shutdown. “We must return to regular order, advance a clean CR and these three appropriation bills, and then consider further appropriations and these issues that many of us care so deeply about. Our constituents and our nation depend upon us to do so.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F156B22E-7921-4828-9271-03C2C8E0B237,Sen. Moran Statement on the Senate Filibuster,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – today released the following statement on the Senate filibuster: ""When Sen. Schumer proposed eliminating the filibuster, I opposed that idea, and my views on the importance of the filibuster have not changed. The filibuster provides senators – even when in the minority – the ability to stop bad policies and forces us to find common ground to better serve our constituents.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=AE4C30DD-DD53-4440-9F2C-37D7D02FD253,Sen. Moran Statement on FAA’s Plan to Decrease Air Traffic Due to Government Shutdown,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation – today released the following statement in response to the announcement by U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy that air traffic will be cut by 10 percent at 40 high-traffic airports beginning Friday if the federal government is still in a shutdown: “The on-going staffing shortage of air traffic controllers due to the government shutdown has made a reduction in flights a harsh but necessary consequence of this useless shutdown. We must keep our skies safe. It’s long-past time to fund the government, pay our air traffic controllers and TSA agents and keep our airspace safe and fully functioning.” Background: The U.S. air traffic control (ATC) system already faced staffing shortages before the government shutdown began on October 1st. Since then, the shutdown has worsened the staffing shortage as air traffic controllers are working without pay, leading to a spike in air traffic controller absences. DOT stated that 84% of all delay minutes on November 2 were due to staffing shortages. This number is usually 5%. Today, more than 2,133 flights in and out of the United States were delayed and 146 were cancelled. On October 9, Sen. Moran spoke on the Senate floor about the harmful consequences of the shutdown on the U.S. aviation system. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7256,ICYMI: Estes Joins Mornings with Maria,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Mornings with Maria to discuss the ongoing Schumer Shutdown, France’s decision to double their digital services tax, and more. Watch the interview on YouTube and Rumble. “Well, I do expect that the Democrats at some point in time are gonna have to come to their senses and realize what damage they're causing. You look at the … 93,000 Kansans who are suffering because of food stamps, and so many TSA agents and law enforcement, border patrol, folks that are actually working to protect us, that aren't getting paid and having to figure that out. “The Democrats continue to do the filibuster and [are] trying to say that they want to keep these COVID bailouts on the Obamacare [enhanced tax subsidies] and, unfortunately, I do think the election is … one of those reasons why they were trying to hold this leverage, through the election, to help them on the elections across so many of the states in the country. But now they've got to come down and … focus on what it takes to operate the government.” On what the outcomes of the off-year elections could mean for the crumbling Democratic party: “I do think it'll have an impact. The problem is, you could argue which way it goes. I mean, if you end up having the governorship split between New Jersey and Virginia, then what's the Democrats' talking points after that? … I don't know … how they're gonna get themselves out of the corner they've backed themselves into. It really is problematic what they've created and done.” On France’s discriminatory tax against American companies: “It really is discriminatory against U.S. companies. We've been focusing, and the U.S. Treasury has been working really well with OECD, to fix some of the problems with this Pillar Two global minimum tax they've had out there. “And so now France is coming back and doubling their digital services tax, trying to attack any company that uses electronics. And they specifically … doubled it, but they also changed the definition of who would be liable for it. “So basically, it's targeting U.S.-based companies because of the size of the company. And it's inappropriate. It's actually a direct attack on the United States and U.S.-based businesses. I've been a vocal critic through that. “President Trump has some tools like Section 301 and even Section 891 as ways to help out. I mean, we're more than willing in Congress, a lot of us in terms of being able to stand up for U.S. businesses. We can pass additional legislation to help address this. “This is just the wrong direction for us to go, for the world to go, as we're working at how do we maintain good trade and [a] good global economy?”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=CA41FE77-C745-4D8A-B48C-FF3CD1147B4A,Sen. Moran Leads Delegation in Urging CMS to Approve Kansas’ Application for Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-11-04,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) today led members of the Kansas Congressional delegation, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Ron Estes (KS-04) and Sharice Davids (KS-03), in expressing their support for the State of Kansas’ Rural Health Transformation Plan application to access funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program. This $50 billion rural provider fund was created in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and helps identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invests in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers. “The Kansas State Plan was developed through an extensive stakeholder engagement progress,” wrote the delegation. “Its initiatives are strategically aligned with the program’s core objectives: restoring and sustaining the health of rural America, ensuring sustainable access to care, strengthening the health care workforce, advancing innovative care models, and fostering technology-driven solutions.” “Rural health care providers recognize the urgent need for transformation,” continued the delegation. “Yet, with many providers operating under persistent negative margins, they face significant barriers to making the critical investments necessary for regional collaboration, clinical integration, and modern technology solutions. The targeted initiatives supported by this Program will empower rural providers to move beyond the current ‘sick care’ paradigm and toward a sustainable, value-driven system that enables every Kansan to live a healthier, more productive life.” “We respectfully urge CMS to give full and favorable consideration to the Kansas Rural Health Transformation Plan,” concluded the delegation. “We believe it will not only benefit rural communities throughout our state but also serve as a model for modernizing and sustaining rural health care delivery.” The full letter can be found here and below. Dear Administrator Oz: As members of the Kansas Congressional delegation, we write to express our strong and united support for the Rural Health Transformation Plan submitted by the State of Kansas in response to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Rural Health Transformation Program. The Kansas State Plan was developed through an extensive stakeholder engagement process. Its initiatives are strategically aligned with the program’s core objectives: restoring and sustaining the health of rural America, ensuring sustainable access to care, strengthening the health care workforce, advancing innovative care models, and fostering technology-driven solutions. Rural health care providers across Kansas recognize the urgent need for transformation. Yet, with many providers operating under persistent negative margins, they face significant barriers to making the critical investments necessary for regional collaboration, clinical integration, and modern technology solutions. The targeted initiatives supported by this Program will empower rural providers to move beyond the current “sick care” paradigm and toward a sustainable, value-driven system that enables every Kansan to live a healthier, more productive life. We are confident that our state’s rural health providers will enthusiastically embrace these initiatives to strengthen care delivery and improve health outcomes in their communities. Each member of our delegation stands ready to provide any assistance necessary to ensure the success of this plan. We respectfully urge CMS to give full and favorable consideration to the Kansas Rural Health Transformation Plan. We believe it will not only benefit rural communities throughout our state but also serve as a national model for modernizing and sustaining rural health care delivery. Thank you for your leadership and continued commitment to advancing innovation and health care outcomes in rural America. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7248,ICYMI: Estes Joins Capitol Report,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On China’s rare earth export restrictions: “It really was a disruptive thing when China said that several weeks ago … When we look at how critical rare earth minerals are for all the things we want to do going forward, it's so important that we have … all countries, including China, follow free and fair trade practices. I mean that's kind of the point that's made our economic engine in the world grow and continue to grow and continue to help individuals.” On what talks with Xi Jinping should look like: “... Looking at President Trump's discussions with President Xi is looking at … how can we help make the economic ties between the United States and China stronger? How can we make sure that China practices and follows those fair trade trade practices that we've talked about? And I also would hope that he would look and talk about fentanyl and some of the drug issues that are so devastating for so many of our American citizens.” On the progress of stopping fentanyl and other drugs from China from coming across our borders: “I think the biggest improvement that we've seen so far is just the enforcement that President Trump's been putting on the border in terms of making sure that … we don't have more people crossing the border illegally. And as a result, there's less fentanyl coming into the country through those means. But the overall practice that China has in providing those precursors and or maybe providing fentanyl itself to actually use in the smuggling trade is not characteristic of what you would expect of a good trading partner.” On what Congressman Estes hopes to see come out of a trade deal with the United States and China: “I am hopeful that as part of these discussions that China is willing to to be engaged and say that it's important enough to the Chinese economy that they actually act like a fair trading partner so that we can address those issues and make sure that we minimize those negative consequences of things like [drug] smuggling.” On China’s human rights abuses: “China has a long history of human rights abuses, whether it's related to Christians, whether it's to the Falun Gong, or whether it's to the Uyghurs. But also just from a standpoint of slave trade practices and using that in their economy … In the past … a lot of leadership, whether it's the United States or in other countries around the world, have backed away because China objected to bringing up commentary about their human rights abuses. President Trump hasn't done that. “He's been willing to stand up and say, ‘We need to make sure that good practices are followed’ and [he’s] been willing to push forward some of his tariffs and some of his other leading points on trade to actually make sure that some of these unfair practices are addressed.” On potential outcomes of President Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping: “I look forward to having some good dialogue when they meet and, ultimately, I do think it'll take a long time because some of these things, I think, are built into the Chinese economy and they may have to figure out that in their own self-best interest is to agree, to head in a right direction, and act the same way that we would expect our trade partners to react if we want to have trade partners that are considered most favored nation status.” On what may transpire after President Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping: “President Trump's knows there's going to be heat, I mean just like other presidents knew there were going to be heat, but they didn't address it, whereas President Trump's been willing … to take the slings and arrows, if you would, in terms of the criticisms that would come at him, but he was willing to address and and focus on what's what's the right thing to do.”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7254,ICYMI: Estes Joins Voice of Reason with Andy Hooser,2025-11-03,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On the ongoing Schumer Shutdown: “It's just another Schumer Shutdown that basically [the Democrats] don't want to talk about funding the government. And the bad part about it is, that this particular funding bill was something that they've already voted on, basically, 13 times when we were under President Biden when he was in office. “As recently as this last spring, they voted for the basic, same funding levels. So, the whole purpose there is that they're focusing on … trying to make it a story about healthcare and a distraction from really what their responsibility is: to fund the government. All of these Democrats that are voting to not fund the government [are] causing real pain for real people. And now, at least the Democrats are saying that they recognize it's causing pain for people, but they're using it as a political leverage point. And that's a sad way for people being in a leadership role, an American leadership role, to treat American citizens.” On Democrats playing leverage games instead of working to fund the government: “It is just a political game that they're playing instead of trying to focus on doing their job, doing their responsibility, which is funding the government. And yeah, there's going to be differences and debate about how much our total appropriations should be for 2026 [and] going forward. But let's keep the government open while we're having that discussion and finalizing that. “And that's why we created this CR, this continuing resolution, until November 21st. When we voted on it back in September, it was to actually be able to have some time for the appropriations committees to sit through and come up with … How much are we going to spend on Health and Human Services? How much are we going to spend on defense? How much are we going to spend for the Agriculture department? And with the shutdown, those discussions aren't happening.” On reopening the government and how to fund it into next year: “The bill that the Republicans passed out of the House of Representatives sets November 21st as the deadline for the continuing resolution to move forward. The Democrats in the Senate are filibustering it and have voted it down, voted to keep the government closed. So, obviously, if it was going to take six or seven weeks for the appropriations folks to work through the process, then that date would have to be changed to some degree. “The Democrats are going to have to come to the table and stop the filibuster, and vote to open the government, whether it's on November 21st, or whether it moves it to a date in January or something, that actually provides enough time for these discussions to be happening.” On the negative impacts of the Schumer Shutdown on Americans and the economy: “Well, if you look at the number of workers that are operating under the federal government, there's a little over two million civilian workers, and roughly the same number if you add up the military and the postal service. The reason I break those out is just because of the way they're funded. “So we're talking about the salaries for those four million people. Now, there's 100 million other people that are working in the economy and actually going about their daily business, doing their jobs … It has a little bit of an impact … But the bigger issue is going to be that starting last week, there's no paycheck at all for any of those workers. “That's going to become particularly burdensome … for those individuals. Whether they're trying to pay their mortgage or pay their car payment or go to the grocery store or the drugstore to get medicine for their kids. And that's a piece that's going to be very painful for these individuals that are involved in this. It's really sad that the Democrats are continuing to filibuster and use this as a political leverage point.” On working to achieve a balanced budget: “Well, we've slowly made some progress. We've got so much more to do. I mean, the problem is, one out of [every] five dollars that the federal government spends is being borrowed, which means we've got a big problem we've got to work on and address and sort through. “... You start to get complaints from the government workers who actually run a program, you get complaints from the advocates who cheer on a particular program, and then you get complaints from the people that get paid through a particular program. So you have a lot of folks that are complaining that they want to keep their program. It's a delicate balance as we go through this. “A lot of things, some things you can stop right away, but a lot of things you kind of need to phase down through that process. And unfortunately, as Ronald Reagan said, a federal government program is the closest thing to eternal life because it just wants to keep going.” On enforcing work requirements to be eligible for government programs: “It's one of the things we highlighted in the Big Beautiful Bill, that we worked on for the Working Families Tax Cuts Act this summer … American people are generous people, and we're going to continue to be generous to help folks that need a hand up. But there's also some expectations that if you're an able-bodied adult and you're receiving, say, Medicaid, which is what we talked about with the One Big Beautiful Bill, was that you're able-bodied, you don't have children, you ought to be working.” “Even if it's twenty hours a week, or if not working, then go working on [an] education or doing volunteer work in order to get this free healthcare that American taxpayers are paying for you.” On Democrats attempting to justify their ongoing government shutdown: “They're just making up different stories as they walk along, trying to find something to justify what they're doing. It's just a political game that they want to play, which is kind of sad because it, I mean, even now they're starting to admit it's hurting everyday people. “When we talk about the folks in the district … whether they're needing support from a food stamp program or whether they're … trying to buy a house, and if it's in a flood zone, they can't get flood insurance because that was part of the CR that was going to be extended, the flood insurance program. And … it's a sad way to treat your fellow American citizens, [which] is what they're doing.” On Democrats’ demands in the government funding bill and hypocrisy on the expiring Obamacare enhanced tax credits: “The demands they're making are that they take $50 billion away from rural hospitals and that they go out and make sure that the illegal aliens keep their free Medicaid and health care. “I think a lot of this is built around the whole concept that Obamacare is failing, and they're seeing it. They covered it up with the COVID bailout and now the COVID bailout's ending the way they structured it. “It was the Democrats that chose to end this on December of 2025 because they thought that was enough for them to cover it. And it's getting worse and worse. Premiums are going up, taxpayers are paying more, and this goes back to the basic Obamacare that's going to be struggling without the COVID bailout.” On when the government will open: “I don't have a good solid crystal ball. I think they're going to play around with this until after the elections next week because they don't want to disrupt the . . .Virginia and New Jersey governor elections. I just don't think it's going to work out well for them, and it's American people who are suffering because of what the Democrats are doing.”",1,2026-04-07T15:39:47Z,2026-04-07T20:18:39Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=412DC363-9D1C-4E4E-B00D-E2430CC4BC28,Sen. Moran Statement on the Passing of Steve Morris,2025-11-02,2025,2025-11,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today released the following statement following the passing of Steve Morris, former Kansas Senate President: “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Morris, my longtime friend and a dedicated public servant. He served with me in the Kansas Senate, where he was the Senate President from 2005 to 2013. Steve also served our nation as a pilot in the United States Air Force. He was a thoughtful, principled and dedicated statesman who represented Kansans well. Steve loved Kansas and had friends everywhere. He and his wife Barb had a special concern for the citizens of Southwest Kansas and fiercely advocated for our part of the state. Robba and I respected and admired Steve and loved him and his family. We send our condolences to his family and all those whose lives he touched. We will miss him deeply.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-hosts-fifth-annual-military-academy-nomination-day,Rep. Mann Hosts Fifth Annual Military Academy Nomination Day,2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ABILENE, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted his fifth annual Congressional Military Academy Nomination Day. As the Representative for the Big First District in Congress, Rep. Mann has the privilege of offering military academy nominations to four of the five U.S. service academies for students in the district. The interviews took place in President Dwight D. Eisenhower's hometown of Abilene, Kansas. ""One of my greatest honors in Congress is nominating students from the Big First to attend our nation’s service academies,” said Rep. Mann. “The students interviewed today represent the best of Kansas, and we are lucky to have such bright minds with a desire to serve our country and grow into the next generation of military leaders. It is a real honor to host the military academy selection committee in the childhood hometown of five-star U.S. Army General and son of Kansas, President Dwight D. Eisenhower. I am grateful to the panel for lending their expertise and unique perspectives to the selection process. We look forward to seeing these ambitious and thoughtful students’ success in the years to come.” Rep. Mann appointed a panel of distinguished Kansans from the Big First District with extensive public service or U.S. military experience to assist in the nomination process. The four-person panel included: Mary Eisenhower: granddaughter of President Eisenhower and Chairman Emeritus of People to People International Craig Bowser: retired U.S. Army Reserve Officer, Kansas State Senator for the 1st District SFC (Ret.) Bobby Cox: commander of VFW Post 2715, former Kansas State VFW Commander Michael Utz: retired Garden City Police Chief and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Finney County Commissioner Eight students in the district applied for a military academy nomination through Rep. Mann's office. In the coming weeks, the panel will notify the students whom they have chosen to receive these competitive nominations. Rep. Mann is a former member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and a strong supporter of America’s U.S. military service members. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1356CC0D-134D-42FB-B95E-9892B76D7397,"Sen. Moran: If you know someone who needs evacuation assistance from Jamaica, please contact my office immediately",2025-10-31,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) is offering assistance to Kansans who are seeking help in evacuating from Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa: “The devastation and loss left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa are heartbreaking and has made it extremely difficult for commercial flights to resume operations in Jamaica. It is my priority to make certain that any Kansans who are currently in affected regions of Jamaica are able to safely make it home. If you, your loved ones or your colleagues need help in evacuating due to Hurricane Melissa, I urge you to reach out to my office immediately.” To request assistance, contact Sen. Moran’s office at casework@moran.senate.gov or by calling 202-224-6521. For those traveling abroad: the U.S. Department of State offers the Smart Travel Enrollment Program – a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the U.S. Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7246,Estes Releases Statement on Arrest of Third Murder Suspect of Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released a statement on the arrest announcement of a third suspect tied to the murder of Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, an intern in Rep. Estes’ Washington, D.C., office. Tarpinian-Jachym interned during the Summer 2025 term and was murdered in Washington, D.C., on June 30, 2025. “The announcement of a third arrest tied to the murder of my intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym is another step closer to bringing closure to this tragedy,” said Rep. Estes. “Thanks to the work of U.S. Attorney Pirro, the detectives at Metropolitan Police Department, and others who have worked diligently to bring these suspects in, this case is closer to being solved. Eric’s life was cut short far too quickly. He will never be forgotten by those who loved and knew him. My prayers are with his family as they process this new development.” Background: September 2025 – Estes Releases Statement on Arrests for the Murder of Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym September 2025 – Estes and Colleagues Host Press Conference on the D.C. Crime Crackdown July 2025 – ICYMI: Estes Joins Fox & Friends July 2025 – Rep. Estes Expresses Condolences To Family Of Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=82973E61-510D-4531-BF85-86B2FF401FD5,Sen. Moran Joins Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Restore Pay for Capitol Police During Government Shutdown,2025-10-30,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) joined Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) in introducing the Pay Our Capitol Police Act, legislation that would make certain members of the United States Capitol Police, their civilian staff and essential contractors continue to receive pay during the ongoing government shutdown. The Pay Our Capitol Police Act was also cosponsored by Sens. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). “The men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police risk their lives defending our Capitol, and I am thankful for their service,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation would make certain Capitol Police officers, who protect those who work in the Capitol and the thousands of people who visit it every day, receive paychecks during the ongoing shutdown.” “The United States Capitol Police performs an essential service to our nation, protecting our nation’s Capitol and all who serve within it,” said Sen. Tim Scott. “The Pay Our Capitol Police Act guarantees they receive the pay and support they have earned. These officers protect the American people and an institution of our democracy, and they should not have to miss paychecks because of political games in Washington.” “The brave men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police work tirelessly every day to protect us and those that visit the Capitol complex,” said Sen. Mullin. “While the Democrats continue to play politics with paychecks, the Pay Our Capitol Police Act will ensure our officers are supported.” “Even during the Schumer Shutdown, Capitol Police officers have tirelessly shown up to protect Congress and the public,” said Sen. Cramer. “The Pay Our Capitol Police Act is the least we can do to ensure our officers will get paid for their service without any more delay or disruption.” “It’s foolish not to pay the police officers who protect the U.S. Capitol because of the Schumer Shutdown. They deserve better,” said Sen. Graham. “It is despicable that Democrats continue to drag the Schumer Shutdown on, gladly accepting their own paychecks while refusing to open the government or pay our hardworking federal law enforcement, including our Capitol Police,” said Sen. Rick Scott. “I am proud to join my colleagues to ensure these law enforcement officers, who put their lives on the line every day to keep the Capitol, visitors, and members safe, aren’t harmed by Democrats’ political games.” The Pay Our Capitol Police Act provides: Continuing appropriations to pay members of the Capitol Police performing active service. Pay for civilian employees and contractors who directly support Capitol Police operations. Automatic coverage during any period in which interim or full-year appropriations are not in effect, retroactive to Oct. 1, 2025. The bill is effective immediately upon enactment and remains in place until the passage of the next appropriations legislation or Sept. 30, 2026. Full text of the legislation can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-announces-members-service-academy-selection-board,Rep. Derek Schmidt Announces Members of Service Academy Selection Board,2025-10-29,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (October 29, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced the members of his 2025 Service Academy Selection Board. This weekend, the Selection Board will conduct interviews of Kansas students seeking nominations to attend the United States military service academies for the Class of 2030. “One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is nominating young Kansans to attend our nation’s military academies,” Schmidt said. “I appreciate the distinguished Kansans who have agreed to assist in the selection process this year and look forward to receiving their recommendations.” The members of the Selection Board are: Maj. Gen. Vic Braden (Ret.), U.S. Army and Kansas Army National Guard veteran, former Kansas Deputy Attorney General (Sawyer, Kansas) Capt. David Buehler (Ret.), U.S. Navy veteran, Kansas State Representative District 40 (Lansing, Kansas) Brenda Dietrich, former superintendent of Auburn–Washburn USD 437, Kansas State Senator District 20 (Topeka, Kansas) Col. Pat Proctor (Ret.), U.S. Army veteran, Kansas State Representative District 41 (Leavenworth, Kansas) Coffey County Undersheriff Eric Smith, former Kansas State Representative District 76 (Burlington, Kansas) Lt. Col. Dave Young (Ret.), U.S. Air Force and Kansas Air National Guard veteran, Kansas Deputy Homeland Security Advisor (Topeka, Kansas)",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7245,ICYMI: Estes Joins Inside the Beltway,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On the ongoing government shutdown, triggered by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senate Democrats: “It's unfortunate that we're at this point in time, 23 days now, with no funding on the government. The Democrats are continuing to filibuster and the disappointing thing about it is that they're filibustering on a clean continuing resolution that they've actually voted on before. “I mean, these exact same spending levels [from] last spring and last fall, as well. So it's disappointing we're here. My understanding is that today or tomorrow, the Senate will have a slightly different motion to talk about making sure that we paid the military and that we pay the folks that are working, the border patrol agents, the TSA agents, the air traffic controllers, the folks that are actually having to work through this process and we'll see whether that passes or not. But, in the meantime, it's just sad that we are where we are. The counter proposal that the Democrats are holding the funding the government hostage on is really a non-starter. “They talk about taking money away from rural hospitals and giving it to illegal aliens and using it to spend for electric vehicles and other programs in other countries. I think we ought to be focused on how do we make sure that we support Americans first.” On the COVID-era Obamacare enhanced tax credits expiring: “Well, the problem is the Obamacare has subsidies built into it. I mean, that base level of Obamacare has subsidies built into it. During COVID, it was decided when the Democrats were in the majority in the House and the Senate and President Biden was in office. They decided to add additional subsidies tied to that. And that's what they set the expiration date of December of this year, and now that it's expiring, they're realizing how bad Obamacare really is … It's one of those things that we've got to address: the problems with Obamacare. “It was promised to lower premiums. It was promised that people could keep their doctor, keep their insurance. And it did provide some insurance for some folks that were previously in low-risk pools or in high-risk pools or other areas, or did not have insurance. But we've seen premiums continue to increase, and we can't keep going forward like this. “But the distraction from funding the government is the talk about the problems with Obamacare. I mean, we need to focus on getting the government open so that we can address all the issues that we have to address as a country and make sure that we're moving forward.” On how the Affordable Care Act was never really affordable, a fact the Washington Post admitted: “At that point in time, you don't have an insurance program that provides you good health care. I mean, if you're spending $27,000 a year in combination of premiums, and then you add the deductibles on top of that, you're spending thousands of dollars whether you're on a private plan or whether you're on one of the subsidized Obamacare plans. It's thousands of dollars out of your pocket before you actually get any benefit from that insurance. “And so there's a major problem with the so-called Affordable Care Act. As you said, it's no longer affordable. It never was really affordable. It's just gotten worse. And through that process, it didn't improve care any. It didn't increase the number of doctors or didn't increase the number of people that could keep their old good insurance that they liked.” On the provisions included in the One Big, Beautiful Bill and the work House Republicans put into making it possible: “Obviously, as you talked about the One Big, Beautiful Bill or the Working Families Tax Cuts Act that we focused on, we wanted to make sure that we helped the economy grow. I mean, we saw after 2017, the economy took off. And, you know, instead of the old “new normal” process that President Obama talked about and economist when President Obama was in office, we looked at how do we grow the economy? “A lot of the things that we put into One Big, Beautiful Bill, we made permanent because we saw the positive things after 2017. And so a lot of those are in place moving forward, whether it's the corporate rates and the individual rates, whether it's looking at things like, how do you deduct research and development costs in the year that you incur them so that we can continue to be the biggest innovation in our country. We did so much. I mean, there are some things that we continue to look at.” On addressing international tax issues in the One Big, Beautiful Bill: “One of the things we did with the One Big, Beautiful Bill was push back on the international tax scheme that had been developed with the Biden administration and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and basically it was creating a tax that would be on primarily US businesses and increase their costs. What we recognized there was that that wasn't going to work. The process that we started when President Trump came into office was the administration's been very active in negotiating. How do we address this moving forward? “There's continued work on that international tax aspect. I've had several meetings in the last couple of weeks talking with folks not just U.S. businesses, but also from the European Commission and as well as from Global Business Alliance, and the individuals that are that are affected by some of those provisions, and I think we all agree that there's there's a whole host of problems with this Pillar 2 international tax scheme that they'd come up with. We've got to address that and we're going to continue to focus on that, making sure that we look at and utilize the American tax code to be a level playing field for a business, whether you're based in America or whether you're based in another country and you have operations in America. And we're going to continue on that. On the Congressman’s priorities for the rest of 2025: “There are some other provisions for the year end of 2025. Chairman Jason Smith, on the Ways and Means Committee, talks a lot and wants to do a bipartisan tax bill. There's some smaller provisions … tied to production costs for the entertainment industry for one of the things that I led [which] was helping songwriters be able to write off their demo cost, but that expires at the end of this year. There's several other different provisions at the end of the year that we want to address. And then there's probably an opportunity, although it may go into next year, of looking at, okay, what's the next thing that we do? What do we focus on in terms of how we make sure we keep good economic growth?” On addressing the future of Social Security and potential insolvency: “One of the things that was set up 40 years ago, when they saw Social Security was running out of money at that point in time, and the projections into the future were pretty dire, when you were looking at the baby boomers who were entering the workforce and recognizing that when they retired, there would be a large number of retirees. “There were some provisions and changes made in the eighties to actually build up the trust fund a little bit while baby boomers were working. And now as we look to the future, we're seeing that trust fund run down, like it was designed to do, as the baby boomers [have] retired. We've got to come back and do a very similar process to look at what we do for the future. You know, the Social Security program is designed to help all Americans. But what it's designed to do is that it only pays out in benefits what the trust fund has in income. “And so on any given year, as individuals have lived longer and as innovative ideas and new technologies have made it easier for workers, the same or fewer workers to actually produce the same economic output, we've seen fewer workers per retiree. It's down to less than three now workers per retiree where it was over six or seven decades ago. And so there's obviously less money going into the trust fund as retirees are pulling it out. So we've got to address that. “Obviously it's a great program that people really value as retirees in terms of supporting them. And for folks that are your age, one of the things I do want to remind everybody is that a percentage will still be paid out to anybody. It's just that when the trust fund runs down in … less than eight years, it will have only be a percentage of what the current calculation is. “So, right now that percentage is about 77 cents on the dollar. So, everybody will receive less money, which makes it pretty imperative that we start working now to be able to address that so that we can we can protect not just the current retirees, but also folks into the future, whether they're in their forties or fifties or whether they're in their twenties and thirties as well.” On representing the fourth district of Kansas: “It's South Central Kansas, centered around the city of Wichita, and it includes of course the big urban areas in Wichita, but also a lot of rural areas as well. “We call ourselves the Air Capital of the World because of the amount of aviation footprint that we have there … roughly sixty percent of the planes that are flying today have, if not made completely in Wichita, have huge components that come out of Wichita. “Particularly when you look at general aviation and a lot of the commercial aviation. Every 737 starts in Wichita with the cockpit and fuselage made there. And then it's sent out to Washington to have the wings and the wheels added onto that. Textron, Beechcraft, Cessna, Bombardier, Spirit AeroSystems are all located in Wichita and make a lot of aircraft every year that we all use and value around the world. “The other thing in my district is we have a good footprint of oil and gas, in terms of production. Kansas does produce a fair amount of oil and gas, but it's very low volume producers. You don't get the big gushers like you see in the movies that come out of a well. “So, obviously being able to produce energy, whether it's hydrocarbons, we have a lot of wind farms as well in our state and actually produce much more wind energy than we utilize in the state and about half of what we produce is shipped out of state. “On an agricultural footprint, we have a lot of farmers that focus on making wheat, making corn, soy beans, ethanol, and a big support for not just Americans, but around the world as well to make sure that people have food to eat as well as energy from ethanol and being able to use that. “I really focus a lot within my district on how we make sure that we support our rural areas, support rural hospitals, make sure that we support the property rights for land owners, and making sure that bad regulation doesn't come out of Washington, whether it's regarding use of water. Because that's a big thing in Kansas, particularly in my district in the western part of the state, in terms of making sure that we have sustainable water now and for the future. “And also making sure that we're smart on things like the Endangered Species Act. I mean, we've had some issues over the last few years, starting back with the Obama administration in terms of looking at some species like lesser-prairie chicken, where they wanted to list it as endangered because they counted the number of prairie-chicken the year after a drought came through. “In Kansas, it rains more some years than it does others. And you have to just take that into account and figure out what's the long-term trend and how do we make sure that we have sustainable habitat ongoing into the future.” On why the Congressman got involved in politics and his desire to represent Kansas in Congress: “It's kind of a passion for both my wife and I. We actually met at a Young Republican National Convention and she's currently serving as a state representative in the Kansas legislature. We focus[ed] on, not only early in our marital life, we helped a lot of other people run for office. “And I wanted to get more involved in helping run for office as well. So, I first ran for a county treasurer and then for state treasurer. I served six years as Kansas State Treasurer. One of the things I saw when I was state treasurer was that there was a lot of bad policy, bad legislation coming out of Washington that we actually spent a lot of time as treasurers being able to talk about, instead of focusing on how do we do best practices within our offices, is how do we how do we adjust to what's coming out of the federal office? “It kind of motivated me to run for Congress and actually focus on how do we come up with good policy, good legislation that helps not just make government processes run smoothly at the federal level or the state or local level, but also helps make individuals, whether you're Kansans or whether you live somewhere else in the United States, we want to make sure that there's good policy out there, that we actually approach and help folks live the lives that they want to live without an overbearing big government that's focusing and directing and mandating that they do a lot of things. So it kind of incentivizes me to come out and look at how we come up with some of those best practices?” On Democrat hysteria over White House construction and the history of White House construction: “I think it's a distraction from the Democrats not focusing on funding the government and not being willing to vote for that. There is not a big ballroom on the White House grounds. I mean, there's not a big room in there. “My wife and I have been to the White House for Christmas parties. If you invite all of Congress, House and the Senate, obviously everybody doesn't go, but even if you have events like that or state dinners or state events, it's just not a huge facility to do that. So, being able to build a ballroom which is being funded by private donations. It's not taxpayer money that's going into it. I think it's a good addition to the White House. “If you look over the years, a lot of presidents have done remodeling and improvements and enhancements. Whether it's actually the West Wing was added as part of an enhancement into the White House. Whether you look at [President Franklin Delano Roosevelt], whether you look at President Truman or President Carter or even during President Obama and President Clinton's term[s], there were changes made to the White House and adjustments. “I think this is one of those things that you take a snapshot which I've seen on some of the memes out there of some of the construction activity and and it makes it looks like a like a bad picture, but in reality, I think it's going to be a very positive thing for the White House to be able to to have a facility and a venue there that they can use for state dinners and other events.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-continue-food-assistance-despite-government-shutdown,Rep. Derek Schmidt: Continue food assistance despite government shutdown,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – (October 28, 2025) – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced he will cosponsor legislation to maintain food assistance for Kansans in need if the federal government shutdown continues. “This shutdown has been unnecessary from the beginning and hurts many Kansans,” Schmidt said. “It should not have happened, it has made reaching bipartisan agreement on many important funding priorities for the coming year harder not easier, and it needs to end. In my view, the right thing to do is to reopen the entire government and resume negotiations on full-year funding bills, but if a minority of U.S. Senators keeps refusing that approach then reopening critical parts of the government like food assistance is better than nothing at all.” Funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food assistance program is expected to run out after November 1 if the government remains shut. The bill Schmidt will cosponsor, H.R. 5822, would continue SNAP funding for Kansans in need. More than a month ago, the House of Representatives voted to temporarily continue funding all government operations while bipartisan negotiations for full-year funding priorities continue. A bipartisan majority of U.S. Senators agrees with keeping the government open during negotiations, but a minority of senators has repeatedly refused and under Senate rules that minority is able to block funding bills. Schmidt has voted in favor of every government-funding bill that has come to the House floor this year. On September 19, he voted for the clean, short-term continuing resolution to maintain government operations for seven more weeks while bipartisan negotiations on annual funding bills continue. He also voted for full-year funding for the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and Department of Veterans Affairs and other agencies including the Army Corps of Engineers when those funding bills came before the House of Representatives. Since the shutdown began, Schmidt has cosponsored several targeted bills intended to resume funding for specific federal services. In addition to the SNAP funding bill he cosponsored today, Schmidt has cosponsored standalone legislation to pay U.S. troops (H.R. 5401) and air traffic controllers (H.R. 5455). In the absence of congressional action, Schmidt has favored actions by the Trump Administration to reallocate funding within the limits of the law to meet urgent priorities. Actions by the administration so far include paying U.S. troops and law enforcement officers, temporarily extending funding for the Women, Infants and Children nutrition program, and reopening Farm Service Agency offices. Schmidt also has cosponsored legislation to prevent future government shutdowns by continuing current funding levels whenever Congress allows annual appropriations to lapse (H.R. 5130 and H.R. 5552). “This chaotic shutdown approach is no way to run the government of a great country,” Schmidt said. Schmidt has also cosponsored a Constitutional Amendment that would prohibit Members of Congress from receiving pay during a government shutdown (H.J.Res. 128).",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7243,ICYMI: Estes Joins National Report,2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On Canada’s deceptive ad on tariffs featuring Ronald Reagan: “In terms of particularly as deceptive as that as the ad was … President Reagan, as we know, was for free and fair trade and he was for standing up for America. And we want to continue that. “When you look at that ad, in general, it was deceptive the way Canada produced that ad and tried to highlight that. But that's not the first time they've really taken that approach. “When we were negotiating the original USMCA, they were actually … dragging their feet and slow-walking it. It finally came to a point where the United States and Mexico were going to go forward with just a two-country agreement. And that's when Canada came back to the table and said, ‘We want to be engaged.’ “We want to make sure that we have good free and fair trade opportunities. We want to make sure that we support America, American businesses, and help make sure that there's not abuse by any country out there. And that's what President Trump wants to stand for, is how do we support that? And members in Congress want to do that as well. [We] want to make sure that we help make sure that we support businesses in America, support workers, support families and consumers.” On negotiating trade with Canada and the USMCA agreement: “It really is. I mean, when you look at … this whole process that Canada has followed in terms of … dragging their feet on things … I mean, there's been ongoing disputes with Canada on things like dairy and lumber and hardwood … That was part of the whole process of USMCA was to make sure that when those disputes arose, there was an opportunity to address them and work through that. And we still have some ongoing things that we need to work through. “That's kind of one of the reasons why when USMCA was set up, there's a checkpoint next year to actually see what's working and what's not working. So, as we move forward, that's going to be one of those issues: how do we make sure that the United States, Mexico, and Canada [are] all working on making sure that we have free and fair trade that's good for all three countries?” On the ongoing Democrat-induced government shutdown: “We're now seeing, starting last week, federal employees, whether you're military or whether you're civilian employees, paychecks have run out of money, in terms of that. And so people are starting to be affected by that. “It's really sad because when we passed this continuing resolution to November21, it was really just to allow time to actually do the Fiscal [Year] 2026 appropriations [bills] for the entire budget for the federal government. And, you know, this is something that actually Democrats voted on 13 times basically when President Biden was in office as recently as this past March. “And so it was kind of one of these things, there's not gimmicks in it but they've been playing games around it. Actually, Senator Schumer said that … every day gets better for them through that process. The Democrat Whip in the House, Katherine Clark, she went out and said, ‘We know families are hurting through this but this is a leverage point’ for them. I just think that's the wrong way for American leadership to actually punish American families going through these.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1E39549D-992B-4373-B4CF-6C955F0EBC92,"VIDEO: Sen. Moran Applauds Committee Passage of ROTOR Act, Aviation Safety Legislation",2025-10-21,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation – today applauded the Commerce Committee’s passage of the bipartisan Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act, which included elements of Sen. Moran’s legislation requiring broad adoption of ADS-B technology. The ROTOR Act aims to improve aviation safety in response to the tragic midair collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter that claimed 67 lives on January 29th near Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA). Following passage of the ROTOR Act by the Senate Commerce Committee, Sen. Moran recognized family members of the DCA crash victims in the audience and gave remarks on the importance of the aviation safety legislation in preventing aviation tragedies. The bill will now move to the full Senate for consideration. “It brings back memories of January 29th,” said Sen. Moran. “I know that we continue to mourn the loss of family members and victims of a tragedy that occurred that day. American Airlines Flight 5342 originated from Wichita, Kansas, carrying Kansans and others, and it’s certainly changed the way we now think about air traffic safety. Today, we seek to address many safety concerns and make our skies safer both for civilian travelers and our military men and women.” “Central to the conversation surrounding that day in January is the use of and the failure to use ADS-B technology,” continued Sen. Moran. “While elements of ADS-B Out technology are mandated by the FAA, others are not. This bill encourages greater adoption of integration of ADS-B In technologies which share an aircraft’s GPS position, altitude, identity, ground speed with air traffic control and other aircraft equipment with ADS-B In. Broader use of this technology improves safety and could have saved lives on the evening of January the 29th.” “It should not take a tragedy to get us to this point, and I’m grateful that this committee is taking steps to address recent accidents as well as taking a proactive approach to aviation safety,” concluded Sen. Moran. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks Sen. Moran priorities included in the ROTOR Act: Closes a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) loophole that allowed most military aircraft to operate without Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B) Out transmitting. This technology broadcasts an aircraft’s precise location with greater precision than traditional radar. Requires all aircraft to be equipped with ADS-B In, allowing pilots to better visualize and prevent incidents with other aircraft and vehicles on the ground. Directs the FAA to update both standards on safe distances between aircraft and controller training once ADS-B In is widely adopted. Strengthens oversight of mixed air traffic and flight routes near commercial service airports and requires quarterly reports on ADS-B Out compliance, annual Department of Transportation Inspector General audits and a safety review of potential improvements to airspace safety around DCA. Tasks the FAA with providing an Airborne Collision Avoidance System-X (ACAS-X) Action Plan to inform widespread adoption of advanced collision avoidance technologies and establishes an FAA Office of FAA-DOD Coordination to streamline communication between the FAA and military departments. Directs the Army Office of Inspector General to initiate an audit of the Army’s coordination with the FAA, pilot training and qualification standards and the Army’s use of ADS-B Out, as well as whether it adheres to Army policy, regulation and law. In June, Sen. Moran joined his colleagues in requesting such an audit. Additional items to note: July 29: Sen. Moran joined Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing the original text of the ROTOR Act, six months after the aviation tragedy near DCA that claimed 67 lives on January 29th. June 10: Sen. Moran joined his colleagues in calling for audits into the Department of Transportation and the Army’s responses to the DCA midair collision. May 16: Sen. Moran introduced legislation to require all aircraft operating in Class B airspace to install and use ADS-B In and Out, and repealed the FY2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provision permitting exemptions to the military’s use of ADS-B requirements. Elements of Sen. Moran’s legislation were included in the ROTOR Act. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7239,"Estes Affirms National Deficit Decrease, Highlights Further Need for Fiscal Sanity in Government",2025-10-20,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), a member of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), issued the following statement recognizing the positive economic news regarding the decrease of the United States’ annual deficit. Per the JEC, the nation ended the fiscal year with a $1.78 trillion deficit, which is $50 billion, or 2.8%, less than FY2024. The main driver in reducing the deficit came from tariff collections put in place by President Donald Trump earlier this year. These collections totaled to $195 billion for FY2025. “As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, I’m encouraged by the fiscal update from the Joint Economic Committee that shows the deficit has made a downward trend. This is positive news as President Trump and Congress work toward restoring fiscal sanity in Washington, D.C.,” said Rep. Estes. “We must build on this momentum with responsible fiscal policies – curbing wasteful spending, prioritizing pro-growth tax reforms, and examining mandatory spending programs that have contributed to deficit increases. Fiscal sanity set by a government that lives within its means is good for Kansans and Americans.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7237,Estes Applauds Kansas Air National Guard’s 184th Wing’s Selection for Prestigious Point Defense Task Force,2025-10-17,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) issued the following statement after the 184th Wing of the Kansas Air National Guard was selected to host the Air Force Point Defense Battle Laboratory, reflecting Kansas’ important role in national security. The 184th Wing is located at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas. The Point Defense Battle Lab is the Air Force’s innovative solution to rapidly advance counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (cUAS) and point defense capabilities, complementing the work already being done by the Airmen at the 184th Wing. This designation will also enable the Air Force to leverage the unique assets in South Central Kansas, such as Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=CCB6B4A6-AC65-4043-863D-7EAE236997E6,Sen. Moran Speaks on the Senate Floor to Call for Maintained Pressure on Russia,2025-10-16,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense – spoke on the Senate floor today to reaffirm the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine and maintained pressure on Moscow in order to end Russia’s unjust war. Sen. Moran’s remarks were delivered following President Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin today and ahead President Trump’s meeting tomorrow with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Shortly before Sen. Moran’s remarks, the U.S. Senate voted on the FY2026 Appropriations bill to fund the U.S. military. Despite receiving bipartisan support in the Senate Committee on Appropriations, the bill did not receive the necessary votes to advance, failing 50-44. “Last week, we witnessed the long-awaited peace agreement between Israel and Hamas come to fruition,” said Sen. Moran. “Thanks to the efforts of President Trump and his administration, a ceasefire is holding. Iran has been dealt a crippling blow that has weakened its hold on the region, and Hamas has released all living hostages who had been held captive for more than two years.” “Through strength, the U.S. brokered a peace deal that serves the security of Israel and the humanitarian needs of Gazans alike,” continued Sen. Moran. “Now, as the conflict in Ukraine has surpassed the three-year mark, Putin remains undeterred in his mission to carry out his unjust war on the Ukrainian people. Each day this war continues, lives are lost, and the safety, economic stability and global leadership of the United States are threatened. This war must end.” “Our adversaries, Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, are always looking for an opportunity to disrupt our alliances, weaken our resolve and disturb the free world,” concluded Sen. Moran. “It is imperative that the United States stands firm in its support for Ukraine and, in doing so, places significant pressure on Putin to show our adversaries that democracy will not go undefended.” Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks Sen. Moran’s full remarks as delivered: “As President Trump today spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and tomorrow, he will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, I want to highlight how important it is, how critical it is, to securing a resolution to Russia’s unjust war in Ukraine. “I had intended to give remarks today on this topic, and I opened the Wall Street Journal this morning. And I was reading it, its top editorial on the editorial page deals with this topic, and I would recommend it to my colleagues. It expresses the views as I wish I could express them so clearly. I’m going to do so today right now. “Last week, we witnessed the long-awaited peace agreement between Israel and Hamas come to fruition. Thanks to the efforts of President Trump and his administration, a ceasefire is holding. Iran has been dealt a crippling blow that has weakened its hold on the region, and Hamas has released all living hostages who had been held captive for more than two years. While we recognize there are significant challenges that remain in the Middle East, this marks a critical step toward a just and lasting peace in the region. “This agreement would not have been possible without the strength of the United States military, our steadfast alliance with Israel and making it unequivocally clear to Hamas that the United States is willing and able to assist our ally in war. Through strength, the U.S. brokered a peace deal that serves the security of Israel and the humanitarian needs of Gazans alike. “Now, as the conflict in Ukraine has surpassed the three-year mark, Putin remains undeterred in his mission to carry out his unjust war on the Ukrainian people. Each day this war continues, lives are lost, and the safety, economic stability and global leadership of the United States are threatened. This war must end. “To bring an end to this war, the United States and our allies must maintain pressure on Moscow, as was just seen we maintained pressure on Hamas. One recent and important development in this effort is the potential transfer of U.S. Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This weaponry will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory, deter further Russian aggression and help level the battlefield as negotiations hopefully move forward. By providing advanced, precision-strike systems, America demonstrates that our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty is backed not only by words, but by legitimate support that can alter the course of this war. “I commend the administration for its efforts to facilitate this transfer and for leading discussions between Ukraine and Russia that hopefully will secure a durable and just peace. “The United States cannot act alone. Our NATO allies must also shoulder the burden. President Trump recently secured an agreement with our NATO allies to increase defense spending from two percent to five percent by 2035. This commitment is critical to maintaining the continued defense of Europe. Russia’s economy is already under strain, but their capacity to fund conflict will continue without enforcement of steady and severe global sanctions. “Before Congress, there’s legislation that has widespread support of more than 80 senators from both sides of the aisle. This legislation would deliver a severe blow to Russia’s economy and trade. By cutting off the resources that allow Putin to fund this war, we can hasten the path to success in finding peace. “Last week, we advanced the National Defense Authorization Act, but today, we failed to advance the appropriations bill to fund our military. We always should recognize that the world is watching. They’re watching us. Our adversaries pay attention, and our allies pay attention. We have to every day make clear the case that it is true: the United States is a stable and friendly supporter of our allies and a full-fledged adversary to those who wish to cause us harm. “Our adversaries, Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, are always looking for an opportunity to disrupt our alliances, weaken our resolve and disturb the free world. It is imperative that the United States stands firm in its support for Ukraine and, in doing so, places significant pressure on Putin to show our adversaries that democracy will not go undefended.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7236,ICYMI: Estes Joins Washington Watch with Tony Perkins,2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined Washington Watch with Tony Perkins with guest host Jody Hice to discuss President Trump’s monumental peace plan for ending the Israel-Hamas war and the ongoing government shutdown caused by the Democrats. Watch the interview on YouTube and Rumble. On President Trump’s peace plan to end the Israel-Hamas war and taking steps to achieve peace in the Middle East: “Give all glory to God, but it is fairly significant what President Trump's done. He's shown from his first term, when he instituted the Abraham Accords and got the agreements to actually start to make … what we hope will turn into lasting peace in the Middle East, and being able to do the work as a leader that he's been able to do on an international stage to bring countries like Qatar and Turkey and Egypt together to help in this effort to bring Hamas to support a peace plan. And Israel's wanted to do this for a long period of time. This week is the two-year anniversary of the brutal invasion [by Hamas] into Israel and the attacks on Israeli citizens. “It's great to see with this peace plan that's being brought forth that we'll be able to see the remaining hostages, the ones that are alive, and unfortunately, as well, the ones that have passed away, being returned to their loved ones. And that we can go forward, and hopefully it'll ultimately end up being better lives for the citizens in Gaza. That they won't have the terror of Hamas hanging over their heads as they try to go about their daily lives and being able to have a peaceful solution to move forward. “It was 20 years ago this year where Israel pulled out of Gaza with the intention of it becoming an area where they could have a peaceful development, and unfortunately, Hamas took it over. Now we need to move forward, and let's have peace in the Middle East. Let's make sure that it works well, that it's monitored as we go forward. Obviously, there's lots of organizations, lots of individuals that … some of them want it to fail. So it has to be monitored, and we'll have to have some ongoing effort to make sure that this turns out to be a success.” On Democrats keeping the government closed and holding the country hostage: “It really is sad for our country that the Democrats are holding our country hostage. You know, several weeks ago, the House Republicans passed a continuing resolution, which basically means we'll continue to fund the government at the current levels until November 21st, while the appropriations process for the entire fiscal year of 2026 is set up. We didn't want any gimmicks in it…. “Actually these funding levels had been voted on by Democrats earlier this year. It's not like it's a new issue for them. Unfortunately, what we've seen, since then, is that the Democrats would rather shut down the government because they want to make outrageous and unreasonable demands for additional spending. We've seen time and time again, over the last 10 days, that they're willing to hold the country hostage. “Senator Schumer, as part of his effort in leading this Schumer Democrat Shutdown, said yesterday that every day gets better for them. I think he's referring to their campaigns in their Democrat primaries. I think they're more worried about them losing the primaries than they are worrying about what's the right thing for the country. I think they all should look forward to, how do we help the country? How do we make what's best for America? “What we've seen are some of the consequences … about the reduction in force (RIF) efforts that's having to take place. People that are workers in the federal government are actually starting to lose their jobs, not just furloughed and not just without pay, but actually losing their job because of this. “It's terrible consequences for the folks that have been working without pay, whether you're our military folks, whether our border patrol folks, the air traffic controllers, and the TSA agents … folks that are protecting ourselves. The first paychecks were missed today for the Capitol Police that actually protect the members of Congress.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=4B1BA618-59E5-463E-BD6B-5678F21D8951,VIDEO: Sen. Moran Speaks on Senate Floor to Recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month,2025-10-15,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) spoke on the Senate floor yesterday to recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and to draw awareness to the work of advocates in Kansas and across the country who provide care and support for victims of domestic violence. Sen. Moran highlighted the efforts of Hope Unlimited in Iola; SAFEHOME in Johnson County; Stepstone in Wichita; and Crisis Center, Inc., in Manhattan. “The month we’re in – the month of October – is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time that we should recognize the devastating impact that domestic violence continues to have on individuals, families and communities across our states and the nation,” said Sen. Moran. “Though the issue of domestic violence often remains hidden behind closed doors, it’s a reality that affects millions of Americans every year. Both in communities large and small, urban and rural, and, unfortunately, across my own home state of Kansas.” “We have a responsibility to bring hope to those who feel afraid to speak out,” continued Sen. Moran. “I want to recognize the Kansans who dedicate their lives to that mission: those who work and volunteer in shelters, crisis centers, advocacy organizations and law enforcement across the country. Their compassion and courage make a difference every single day.” “The work is far from over,” concluded Sen. Moran. “Domestic violence is more than a law enforcement or a policy issue. Each of us can and must play a role in ending it. This month, and every month, let us recommit ourselves to breaking the cycle of abuse. Let’s do our part to speak out against violence in all its forms and stand with those who have been silenced for too long. Let's raise awareness of this silent and devastating issue and bring hope to those who need it most.” Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=62455915-583B-46CC-9C3B-9FAB2D00AE8F,Sen. Moran Applauds Passage of FY26 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense – today released the following statement, applauding the Senate passage of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “Each year, Congress has the responsibility to pass an annual defense bill to make certain our servicemembers have the technology, resources and support to keep our nation safe and combat threats from our adversaries. The bipartisan bill passed by the Senate makes important strategic investments to bolster our military capabilities, provide a well-deserved pay raise for our troops and support increased quality of life for our Armed Forces. I worked to secure provisions to invest in Kansas’ military bases, expand access to medical care for our servicemembers and their families, and improve the safety and efficiency of military operations. We owe a debt of thanks to the men and women who serve our nation, and it is my priority to make certain they have the resources needed to fulfil their mission. “While this legislation is important for bolstering our military’s capabilities, it is critical that we fund the government through the non-partisan, continuing resolution and the regular appropriations process to reopen the government and pay our troops.” Sen. Moran introduced an amendment to improve collaboration between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in using Military Medical Treatment Facilities like Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley. This amendment passed and will support greater utilization of military hospitals and expand access to care for veterans. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks on His Amendment Sen. Moran’s priorities included in the FY2026 NDAA: Supports access to medical care at Fort Riley – Creates additional requirements before a military medical treatment facility like Irwin can be downgraded and encourages greater collaboration between the DoD and VA to better utilize military hospitals. Adds Fort Riley Air Traffic Control tower – Authorizes $26 million in funding for the construction of a new Air Traffic Control tower on base at Fort Riley. Creates Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course – Authorizes $13 million in funding to create a new training course for Fort Riley servicemembers. New barracks at Fort Riley – Authorizes $16 million in design funding for additional barracks at Fort Riley. Improves safety for military aircraft operating in commercial airspace – Requires the use of position broadcast technology around commercial airports, directs policy to maximize the use of these systems and mandates the DoD to develop a process for sharing near miss and mishap data with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Gives troops a pay raise – Provides a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers. Bolsters military recruitment – Improves military recruiter access to secondary schools and timely directory information sharing and establishes a National Week of Military Recruitment. Increases military capabilities – Advances readiness and maintenance funding for all military services. Helps combat fires on board Navy ships during maintenance – Directs the Secretary of the Navy to evaluate alternative technologies for ship maintenance, including press connect fittings in order to combat a growing problem of Navy ships catching fire during repairs. TRICARE hearing aids for dependents of retired servicemembers – Allows the dependents of retired servicemembers to maintain hearing aid coverage through TRICARE Select. This provision builds on Sen. Moran’s previous legislation included in the FY24 NDAA that expanded hearing aid coverage to TRICARE Prime dependents of retired servicemembers, meaning all dependents of retired servicemembers on TRICARE will now maintain this coverage. Streamlines process of receiving Public Service Loan Forgiveness for servicemembers – Requires the Department of Defense to issue a report on the status of a data match to make certain servicemembers can automatically receive Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Expands VA Services for Veterans in the Freely Associated States (FAS) – Sen. Moran’s amendment makes certain veterans from Micronesia, Palau and the Marshall Islands who reside in those countries after serving in the United States military will receive access telehealth, mail-order pharmacy and beneficiary travel reimbursement through the VA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=F3E6FE6B-C394-4A56-B566-E5B4A9F4813C,Sen. Moran Highlights Harmful Consequences of a Government Shutdown on U.S. Aviation System,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Nine days into a federal government shutdown, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation and a senior member of the Appropriations Committee – spoke on the Senate floor about the harmful consequences of the shutdown on the U.S. aviation system. “The failure to pass a continuing resolution is slowly crushing our aviation system,” said Sen. Moran. “Our system is too fragile, and the stakes are too high for us to continue operating the national aviation system in the manner we are doing so. We will reach a breaking point, and this could result in the closing of our airspace or portions of it.” “We set out earlier this year, in a bipartisan manner, to transform our aviation system and to make it safer for everyone. But that work is significantly hindered without an open and functioning government,” continued Sen. Moran. “Every day we remain in a shutdown, the air traffic controller shortage gets worse and the strain on the aviation system intensifies. Our system has a breaking point, and I hope that this dysfunction we are undergoing, I hope it stops before we see dramatic and damaging consequences.” “There are consequences to the position we’ve allowed ourselves to get in, and it affects the safety of Americans every day,” concluded Sen. Moran. “Having experienced the loss of life from the flight on January the 29th, from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., we should be doing everything we can to make certain that our air traffic system and the necessary components are in place to make sure that the traveling public has a safe and secure flight when they board a plane in the United States…A shutdown makes absolutely no sense for the benefit of America. I urge my Democratic colleagues to act now to pass this short-term continuing resolution so we can alleviate the pressures on our aviation system, return to doing our jobs and appropriating government funding, and provide much-needed certainty and stability for our nation.” In March 2025, Sen. Moran introduced the Aviation Funding Stability Act, which would allow the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to draw from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to continue critical operations when appropriations lapse. He has repeatedly introduced this legislation in previous Congresses to provide certainty for the aviation industry during lapses in federal government funding. More information on the legislation can be found here. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks Sen. Moran’s remarks as delivered: “Mr. President, we’re now nine days into a government shutdown. The disruption of the shutdown is being felt by many Americans, particularly what I want to talk about is the many Americans who are traveling or working in the aviation industry. “Government shutdowns are detrimental to some of our most basic functions of government, and our already fragile air traffic control system is facing strain from this occurrence. “We’re reminded how fragile our air system is – how fragile our air safety system is – by what happened on January, the 29th, when a flight from Wichita, Kansas, did not land safely at Washington-Reagan, and it claimed the lives of 67 people. “Over the time that I’ve been in Congress, we’ve had a number of shutdowns. In many instances, Kansans have told me ‘shut her down, it doesn’t matter, it doesn’t matter to me.’ “I’ve never found the value in a government shutdown. “That accident that I just mentioned forced Congress and our nation to reckon with an issue that’s plagued us for decades: why have we not effectively modernized our airspace system? Since that crash, steps have been taken to train more controllers and enhance the aviation system, including a $12.5 billion dollar investment in modernizing our airspace, but those efforts become much more difficult while Congress fails to keep government operating and a shutdown is in place. “The Wall Street Journal just this week aptly summed up the current crisis, stating we ‘have a system under pressure that now just has another 100 pounds of weight on it.’ “The failure to pass a continuing resolution [CR] is slowly crushing our aviation system. Our system is too fragile, and the stakes are too high for us to continue operating the national aviation system in the manner we are doing so. We will reach a breaking point, and this could result in the closing of our airspace or portions of it. “The consequences of the shutdown on our aviation system aren’t isolated to major cities and large airports. The viability of the Essential Air Service Program is also now put at risk. This program incentivizes airlines to provide commercial flights to rural communities that normally wouldn’t be able to attract business from major airlines on their own. In Kansas, there are five such airports that use this program to provide flights to their communities. “These flights allow my constituents to fly to larger cities for business, to see family, to make doctor appointments and so many other things. Several of these airports have seen, and continue to see, record levels of passenger growth. “All these factors are chipping away at the sustainability and safety of our nation’s aviation system. “In previous Congresses, I introduced the Aviation Funding Stability Act – which allows the FAA to draw from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to make certain that critical operations can continue when there is an appropriations lapse. In March of this year, I reintroduced the bill as we faced this threat of a shutdown, and this legislation is still important, but the fact is the only real solution here is to pass the continuing resolution. “We set out earlier this year, in a bipartisan manner, to transform our aviation system and to make it safer for everyone. But that work is significantly hindered without an open and functioning government. The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, of which I’m a member, has done its job. I joined my colleagues in advancing the FY2026 funding bill for the Department of Transportation but including all the aviation matters at the FAA and otherwise. We did that in July. “It included more than $22 billion for the FAA – the Federal Aviation Administration – with $5 billion for the FAA’s Facilities and Equipment account – critical funding for modernizing outdated equipment in our nation’s airspace. This legislation also included funding to hire 2,500 air traffic controllers to close the gap in our workforce. “Every day we remain in a shutdown, the air traffic controller shortage gets worse and the strain on the aviation system intensifies. Our system has a breaking point, and I hope that this dysfunction we are undergoing, I hope it stops before we see dramatic and damaging consequences. “Mr. President, my point is that the continuing resolution is standing in the way of the appropriations process. We have a Majority Leader who is willing to bring appropriations bills to the floor; they deserve the Senate consideration of those appropriations bills. The challenge we faced was getting them done by the end of the fiscal year, and therefore, we put in a place a continuing resolution until a date in later November. This is a straightforward continuing resolution to give us the time to complete the appropriations process, including the money for the Transportation Department and the safety components that are included therein. “My second point is that a continuing resolution is necessary to avoid a shutdown. That point is that a shutdown is damaging to our nation in many ways. It’s broadly damaging to us because it allows those who are critics, those who are adversaries, to realize that we’re not as capable of functioning as we should be. And even our allies wonder what’s going on in the United States. “The point I want to make: there are consequences to the position we’ve allowed ourselves to get in, and it affects the safety of Americans every day. And having experienced the loss of life from the flight on January, the 29th, from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., we should be doing everything we can to make certain that our air traffic system and the necessary components are in place to make sure that the traveling American citizens and the citizens of the world that use our airline system have a safe and secure flight when they board a plane in the United States. And the silliness of where we are today is impeding our ability to make that true. “I don’t know when a shutdown makes sense, but the consequences of this one… A short-term, clean CR for a few more weeks to complete our appropriations work – a shutdown makes absolutely no sense for the benefit of America. I urge my Democratic colleagues to act now to pass this short-term continuing resolution so we can alleviate the pressures on our aviation system, return to doing our jobs and appropriating government funding, and provide much-needed certainty and stability for our nation.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7232,Estes Joins the John Whitmer Show,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On House Republicans funding the government and what the appropriations process should look like: “We did our job several weeks ago, we –the House Republicans – voted to fund the government. [We] funded it till November 21st … The problem stems back to we haven't been doing regular order for a long time. “There's 12 appropriation bills that fund the different departments in the government and … the fiscal year runs from October 1st to September 30th and it's been since 1997 since all 12 of those have been done, completed, signed into law by September 30th. “The House Appropriation Committee has passed all 12 out of the Appropriations Committee, but unfortunately, the clock ran out on September 30, with all the other things we've been working on with DOGE and with the One Big, Beautiful Bill, the Working Families Tax Cuts, and other things, appropriations just didn't get done in time. “We've passed some of them out of the house. What the Speaker proposed and what we voted on several weeks ago was, ‘Let's keep funding the government at the current levels until November 21st, allow the appropriations process to work out, pass it through the House, pass it through the Senate, and whatever conference committee work gets done by passing those provisions.’ And the Democrats said, ‘No, we're not going to do that.’ … Even though they voted for these exact same funding levels in the appropriations last spring.” On Democrats refusing to vote for the same funding bill they voted for 13 times during the Biden administration: “It's just a continuing resolution, which basically means you spend at the current levels. You don't start new programs, you don't change or improve programs or redirect that. It's just keeping the government open, keeping it funded so that we can continue to pay our military, continue to pay our Customs and Border Patrol agents, continue to pay the TSA agents at the airport and air traffic controllers, all the things that a great nation has and should have. “The Democrats came back with an irrational proposal that says, ‘Well, just to fund it ‘til November 21st, we need to spend an extra 1.5 trillion dollars and do things like … give free health care to illegal aliens, and take money away from rural hospitals.’ I mean, that's what they're proposing to do in order to fund the government until November 21st.” On Democrats’ posturing to control the media narrative: “They're hoping to get the media on their side, which they have. I mean, the Democrat media is kind of redundant … and being able to talk about this message and make sure that there's enough angst out there. “The facts aren't on their side. I mean, Speaker Johnson pointed out on page 57 [of the government funding bill], ‘Here's right where you said you're not going to fund the government for every operation unless you give free health care to illegal aliens.’” On continued government payments during the Schumer Shutdown: “This is really focused on the discretionary spending, which is about 25% of the total spending of the government. So many other things are continuing to happen. “We're still sending out Social Security checks, still making Medicare and Medicaid payments, because those are … sometimes called mandatory programs or sometimes called entitlements. I call them automatic programs because they're set in law to happen based on the provisions that somebody's in, whether it's income or whether they've paid into Social Security or Medicare. But it gets back to the basics of the responsibility is to fund the government and make sure that we defend the country. Those are the two main responsibilities of the federal government.” On Democrats choosing to continue receiving their salaries during the shutdown they caused: “Yeah, it really is a bad thought process that [Senator Ruben Gallego]'s going through from the standpoint of saying he's voting to shut down the government, just like all but one House Democrat voted to shut down the government, including Kansas Democrat, only Democrat, Sharice Davids. “[Sharice Davids] voted to shut down the government. She voted not to fund the government, which in effect shut us down. So all of these people, all the military folks, all of the Customs and Border Patrol agents, all the air traffic controllers and TSA agents are not getting paid, but you have this senator who's said the quiet thing out loud. “The Democrats still want to get paid. Even though their staff, their own staff's not going to get paid. But for Senator Gallego to say that he wants to still get his paycheck regardless of what his staff's getting paid or the responsibilities he has to oversee the government. That's just irresponsible, particularly when he voted against funding the government.” On Democrat hypocrisy of shutting down the government: “I think this is a political position they're taking and it's as you said, the position they take depends on what politics and what political angle they want to play. When I pulled up, I was looking at some pictures of my phone from 2018, the last time we really had a Schumer Shutdown, and had a big picture of a sign out there of … let's stop the Schumer Shutdown and here we go again having another Schumer Shutdown just because the Democrats don't want to fund the government. “They don't want to step up and say, ‘Okay, we know we need to negotiate and have appropriation bills passed to fund the government,’ but instead of actually doing that or instead of allowing time to finish that work between the House and the Senate, they're saying, ‘Well, let's shut the government down’ so that they can inflict pain on the American people.” On predicting how long the Democrats will keep the government shut down: “Well, it's really in the Democrats' court. I mean, they have backed themselves into a corner by saying they're not going to fund the government unless they spend this extra one and a half trillion dollars, and it's just irrational from that standpoint. “So I'd like to think that they will have thought through this over the weekend, now that we've been shut down for almost a week, and look at an approach of saying, ‘Okay, so let's open up the government. Let's continue the discussions.’ “They still get input on the appropriation process. I mean, it's still going to take 60 votes in the Senate to overcome a filibuster to pass a bipartisan agreement on appropriations for the next fiscal year.” On Congressman Estes’ concerns for Social Security: “I chose to take the role of Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee, which is part of one of our subcommittees on Ways and Means. It's been in place [for] 90 years. Ninety years ago was when the law was passed to implement Social Security … When it was put in place, average life expectancy was 63. And so it was set up to say if you've lived beyond that and you get to 65, then the program that you pay into, the insurance program that you pay into as a worker, you get a little assistance back from the credit that you've earned in doing that work. It was set up there as to help out with … reducing the poverty level in the senior citizens and helping them with the end of their life, for those folks that actually have lived longer than the average life expectancy. “The average lifespan at birth is about 74. The average lifespan for somebody that reaches age 65 is about 84. And so, we need to look at some of those things about how do we adjust that? We actually have fewer workers now, partly because of technology, but we have fewer workers per retiree. So, we've got to get in and make those hard decisions … “In 1983 they made some changes so that the baby boomers, when they were working, built up the trust fund so that it would be there when the baby boomers were retiring. Well, now we're in the midst of that retirement of the baby boomers. We're seeing that fund's going to run out in 2032. We've got to address that. We've got to get serious. We've got to be adults in the room and say, ‘This is a program that has worked and we want to make sure that it continues to work for the next 90 years.’” On addressing the insolvency issue of Social Security: “You can't ask a millennial or a Gen Z or Gen X to think they're going to get anything out of Social Security. And the problem is that the trust fund only gets so much money based on what's put in by workers. So when we have fewer workers per retiree, in 2032, it's not like there'll be zero dollars. It'll be about 77-76 cents on the dollar. So people that are currently getting it will get a haircut and the people that aren't getting it will get less than what they expected. So we've got to like I said, we've got to be adults. We've got to address this. The sooner we address it, the easier it'll be to solve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7225,Estes Withholds Pay During Democrat-Induced Shutdown,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced his request to have his congressional salary withheld due to the government shutdown, caused by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-New York) and his Democrat colleagues. The announcement follows Democrats’ refusal to vote for the same clean funding bill they supported during the previous administration. During the last government shutdown in 2019, Representative Estes also requested his salary be withheld. The full letter can be found below. Dear Mrs. Szpindor, I have been informed that despite a lapse of appropriations and current government shutdown, Members of Congress will continue receiving their salary. Please withhold my net pay until an appropriations agreement has taken effect. Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7226,Estes Op-ed Celebrates 90 Years of Social Security and Explores How to Strengthen the Agency,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) published an op-ed in the Washington Examiner about the 90th anniversary of Social Security, implementing the Social Security Fairness Act, and how to improve this vital program. Read the op-ed here or below. Fixing Social Security: From Fairness Act to Faster Benefits The United States observed the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act in August. This monumental piece of legislation has provided a supplemental income to retirees in America for decades. Millions of Americans have paid into the system their entire working lives and received the benefits they earned. As Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee on the House Ways and Means Committee, I’m committed to protecting and strengthening one of America’s most vital programs for future generations. President Donald Trump shares my commitment. I know how Social Security has provided a lifeline of economic security to millions of hardworking retirees, disabled workers, and their families – folks in Kansas and across the nation. President Trump does too. He shared his commitment to America to continue “defending Social Security” and “taking care of our own workers, families, seniors and citizens first.” Last year, Congress passed the Social Security Fairness Act which fixes a loophole that prevented police officers, firefighters and teachers from receiving their full Social Security benefits. Earlier this year, the Trump Administration began paying Social Security beneficiaries the retroactive payments they were owed ahead of schedule, after Chairman Jason Smith (R-Missouri) and I urged the administration to implement the Social Security Fairness Act. Furthermore, the Trump administration is making sure the Social Security Administration (SSA) is working efficiently to provide the people with the benefits they deserve. Implementing the Social Security Fairness Act was a great start. Since then, SSA customer service assistance has increased handling calls, lowered the phone call wait time, decreased field office wait times, all while increasing scheduled appointments compared to last year under the Biden administration. There is still much work to do – as my office in Wichita continues to assist Kansans with Social Security cases – but this is moving in a positive direction. We need to do all we can to administer Social Security benefits in the most efficient manner possible, because the program is quickly going insolvent. There are not enough workers paying into the system to support retirees. In June, the Social Security Board of Trustees released its 2025 report, which confirmed the concern of insolvency that I’ve been worried about for years. Republicans and Democrats in Congress need to work together in a bipartisan manner to address these issues together for the benefit of everyone. In September, I had the chance to meet with SSA Commissioner Frank Bisignano in my district in Kansas. We toured the Social Security field office in Wichita and discussed the need for customer service improvements. We agreed there are ways for Congress and the SSA to work together to enhance services and protect benefits for Kansans and all Americans. My colleagues and I must work together to keep the benefits efficiently and correctly disbursed and the Social Security program functional. As Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee, I promise to keep fighting for Americans – like the ones in my district in Kansas – who rely on Social Security benefits today and in the future.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:10:06Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=9E206D69-647B-4916-AF06-C008ABBA2DAC,"Sens. Moran, Marshall Introduce Resolution to Honor Fallen Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann",2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Roger Marshall, M.D., (R-Kan.) introduced a Senate Resolution to honor the life and sacrifice of Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was shot and killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic violence call late Saturday night. Sgt. Heimann will be laid to rest in Hays on Friday. “The tragic loss of Sgt. Scott Heimann is deeply heartbreaking for the entire Hays community,” said Sen. Moran. “He embodied the very best of our small, tight-knit town, a place where people look out for their neighbors, care for those in need and protect the vulnerable. Sgt. Heimann died defending his community from harm. The men and women who serve in uniform risk their safety every day, putting their lives on the line to protect and serve both neighbors and strangers alike. Sgt. Heimann began his service with the Hays Police Department in 2016, and his watch ended far too soon. In Hays, we will remember his sacrifice, and we will honor the legacy he leaves. May God be with his wife and children, and the entire law enforcement and Hays community in this difficult time.” “Every day, brave men and women put on the uniform knowing the risks – Sgt. Scott Heimann was one of those heroes,” said Sen. Marshall. “For nine years, Sgt. Heimann served with honor for the active good of Hays, Kansas, and he will be remembered for his selfless service. My heart breaks for his loved ones and the entire Hays Police Department. We pray they find comfort in the Lord as they mourn this immense loss.” Sen. Moran today spoke on the Senate floor to reflect on the service of Sgt. Heimann and urge the Senate to pass the resolution to honor his sacrifice. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks Full text of the resolution can be found here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-introduces-bill-expand-childcare-rural-america,Rep. Mann Introduces Bill to Expand Childcare in Rural America,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), and Jim Baird (IN-04) introduced the Expanding Childcare in Rural America (ECRA) Act, which would lower the cost of childcare in agricultural and rural communities, while also improving its availability and quality. “Sadly, many Kansas parents in rural parts of our state who are trying to both raise a family and continue their careers are faced with a lack of accessible and affordable childcare options,” said Rep. Mann. “Our bill shrinks the childcare desert in rural communities and ensures parents who want to work can do so while having resources to care for their children. This is a common sense, pro-family piece of legislation that rural America needs and I’m proud to support it.” “Young families in rural communities like mine are strapped for options when it comes to finding childcare and have to drive for hours before and after work to drop their kids off and pick them up,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Where you live shouldn’t dictate whether or not your kid has a place to spend the day while you’re on the job, and our bipartisan bill would make it easier for working families in all of our communities to get the affordable childcare they need.” “Whether you live in a rural community, the suburbs, or a busy city, every mom and dad in America should have access to quality, affordable childcare while they’re at work,” said Rep. Underwood. “The Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act will help families stay in the workforce, grow our local economy, and make sure that every child in Illinois gets the care that they deserve.” “As a father and grandfather, having children is one of the most important and fulfilling responsibilities in the world,” said Congressman Baird. “However, families across Rural America have faced a staggering lack of access to childcare options as they work hard every day to feed and clothe our nation. I am proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan legislation to improve Americans’ access to quality childcare options for their children.” The ECRA Act would direct U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development to authorize and prioritize projects that address the availability, quality, and cost of childcare in agricultural and rural communities through the following programs: The Community Facilities Program offers direct loans, loan guarantees and grants to develop or improve essential public services and facilities in communities across rural America Community Facilities Technical Assistance and Training Grant offers grants to eligible public bodies and private, nonprofit organizations (such as states, counties, cities, townships, incorporated towns, villages, boroughs, authorities, districts, and Tribes located on Federal or state reservations) to provide technical assistance and/or training in support of the essential community facilities program The Business & Industry Loan Guarantee Program provides loan guarantees to commercial lenders for loans to eligible rural businesses The Rural Business Development Grant Program is a competitive grant designed to support targeted technical assistance, training, and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenues The Rural Innovation Strong Economy Grant Program offers grant assistance to create and augment high-wage jobs, accelerate the formation of new businesses, support industry clusters and maximize the use of local productive assets in eligible low-income rural areas The Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to provide microloans for microenterprise startups and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund; and provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-statement-federal-government-shutdown,Rep. Derek Schmidt statement on federal government shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC: Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) tonight issued the following statement, as the Senate for a second time has rejected continuing resolutions to keep the federal government open and operating: “Nearly two weeks ago, the House passed a bipartisan bill to keep the government funded through November 21, while work continues on the full-year appropriations bills. Regrettably, Senate Democrats are insisting on the inclusion of a $1.5 trillion wish list of additional reckless spending instead of passing the House’s continuing resolution. This shutdown is entirely the result of those unreasonable demands. “We must get our fiscal house in order by restraining spending. We made a good start in the policies that were in the reconciliation bill passed this summer, which included $1.2 trillion in spending reductions over the next 10 years. The funding bills that have passed out of the House Appropriations Committee build on this effort by decreasing spending by an additional $30 billion. We can’t go back to business-as-usual and leave our children and grandchildren no path out of our country’s massive debts. “I hope this shutdown will be short-lived and the disruptions to federal government services will be minimal. It’s up to Congressional Democrats to end their blockade and allow the appropriations process to continue.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=1570F069-151F-425D-86EA-AC25605D6FD8,Sen. Moran Leads Delegation in Requesting Disaster Declaration for Kansas Following Severe Weather,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) led his Kansas delegation colleagues, Sen. Roger Marshall, M.D. (Kan.), and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Ron Estes (KS-04) in urging President Trump to make a major disaster declaration for the State of Kansas from July 17 through July 22, 2025. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly formally submitted the request for federal support on September 17, 2025. “As Kansas is not unfamiliar to natural disasters, the result of these events resulted in drastic impacts to the communities affected,” the delegation wrote. “Federal support must be provided to assist our state in emergency response and restoration efforts.” “We, the Kansas Delegation, again strongly reiterate our fullest support for the Governor’s request,” continued the delegation. “We look forward to federal assistance made readily available, equipping both state and local governments with the resources needed to address the devastation caused by these severe storms.” Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Mr. President: We write today in support of Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a major disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred from July 17 through July 22, 2025. As Kansas is not unfamiliar to natural disasters, the result of these events resulted in drastic impacts to the communities affected. Federal support must be provided to assist our state in emergency response and restoration efforts. These severe disasters have placed a significant financial strain on residents as they respond to the aftermath of these events. Following a survey of the damage to the impacted counties including Barton, Comanche, Edwards, Ford, Hodgeman, Johnson, Logan, Marion, Morris, Ottawa, Pawnee, Rawlins, Saline, Stevens, Sumner and Wyandotte, it is estimated that Kansas experienced roughly $7.6 million in damages, qualifying the state for over $5.6 million in federal assistance funding. We, the Kansas delegation, again strongly reiterate our fullest support for the Governor’s request. We look forward to federal assistance made readily available, equipping both state and local governments with the resources needed to address the devastation caused by these severe storms. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=21D93B6C-75FE-40E9-B581-3E37D8831650,Sen. Moran Speaks on the Senate Floor After Congress Fails to Avert a Government Shutdown,2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) today spoke on the Senate floor after the Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution to fund the government at current levels until November 21 and avert a government shutdown. The final vote was 55 – 45 but required 60 votes for passage. “We are coming to the end of the fiscal year, and not all of the appropriations bills have been approved, although almost all of them have been approved by the Senate Committee on Appropriations and several have been passed here in the United States Senate,” said Sen. Moran. “Every city council or commission, every school board, every local government office in my state passes a budget and then lives within that budget every year,” continued Sen. Moran. “Every local unit of government at home can figure this out, and the U.S. Senate is failing one more time. A shutdown means uncertainty; a shutdown means dysfunction. The issue is the continuing resolution that would fund the federal government until November 21 and is designed to avoid that disfunction, avoid that uncertainty. All that’s required is that we pass the continuing resolution, 60 votes in the U.S. Senate, to keep government functioning, so that we can then pass the remaining appropriations bills.” “We can’t pass a continuing resolution because there are those who want to bring other issues into the bill,” said Sen. Moran. “Seems to me that appropriating is one of the primary responsibilities and necessities of the United States Senate. This is simple and straightforward.” The Senate Committee on Appropriations has passed 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills, and for the first time since 2019, the U.S. Senate passed three of the appropriations bills before the August state work period. Click HERE to Watch Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7223,ICYMI: Estes Joins RFD-TV’s Champions of Rural America,2025-09-29,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"On how Congressman Estes’s Research and Development (R&D) Provision helps grow American manufacturing: “It's great when you look at how much we've tried to make sure that this was as much permanent as we could put into the bill, so people can plan for the long term. But also look at things about how do we grow local economies? How do we help that agriculture base by having enough manufacturing within the facility? “One of the things I've been a big champion on is research and development and making sure that we were able to write off the research and development cost. So that as folks do things, even if it's a conveyor belt, it's not necessarily developing a new drug, but the actual companies that end up making conveyor systems and you know, have to put in new controllers and switches. So, research and development authorization is important for them. “Also, capital purchases for new equipment, whether you're buying the new tractor or a new combine, being able to deduct that off of your operating cost just to help make sure that you continue to have that growth and helps the local equipment manufacturer and local equipment dealer as well.” On reinvestment into western companies to maintain rural residential populations help them prosper: “I think part of what we've seen, certainly over the last several decades, is … as technology has improved the efficiency on the farm, and ranching operations, we've actually seen … the population decline. Partly that's because you don't have … enough jobs around in the community to help keep the second and third son there in the neighborhood, in order to help keep the economy going. “By being able to have more efficient, more effective operations within a local community, you're able to keep more of the people that grow up on the farm in the rural areas. And at the end of the day, you end up making sure that you keep the grocery store, you keep the hospital, you keep the drugstore, you know, all of those things that make all of our important communities the places that we want to live in.” On two key provisions of the Working Families Tax Cuts: “Two most important [deductions] that are going to affect people [are] the 199A small business deduction, which, depends on how you're structured, … it's going to help the small businesses that maybe you've structured your farm that way, maybe you're structured some of the operations within the community are that way. So they'll be able to compete against these big corporations that have a lower corporate tax as well. So that's an important provision. “Probably one of the things that's most important that's going to affect everybody is at some time we're all going to die. And being able to increase the exemption on the Death Tax was very important. We'd looked at how do we increase it – almost doubled it – and we made it permanent, and we indexed it for inflation. So that we don't have to look five or eight years down the road and see a cliff out there and be concerned about. It's there and it's set up and it's going to help us in the long term to help our current generation who are the stewards of our farmland be able to pass that off to the next generation.” On the Rural Health Transformation Fund: “Basically what we were wanting to do was make sure that we supported rural hospitals. Obviously … if you look back over the last several years, there's been a disproportionately small percentage of Medicaid and other funding that's gone to our rural hospitals. And as we've seen … those hospitals are strained and … the structures that are set up really fit more within the larger cities. So, we wanted to make sure that we supported rural hospitals. There's a $50 billion fund to help that. Half of that's going proportionally to the states. The other half of it's going to be set up on grants for different projects or different approaches.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7215,Estes Column Details How Tax Cuts Will Deliver Immediate Benefits to Americans During 2026 Tax Season,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) published a column in the Derby Informer on how the Working Families Tax Cuts will benefit all Americans immediately and going forward once the 2025 tax filing season begins in 2026. Read the column here or below. OPINION: How the summer’s tax cuts benefit you This summer, congressional Republicans sent the One, Big, Beautiful Bill to President Trump for his signature on our nation’s birthday — July 4, 2025. This historic package will directly benefit all Americans by permanently locking in lower individual rates and providing additional tax relief to hardworking people across our great nation. Kansans will see these tax cuts immediately when they file their taxes in 2026. The lower rates we enacted in 2017 through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are now permanent, which will continue to enable Kansans to keep more of their own paycheck instead of sending it to Washington. Even the New York Times admitted that a majority of Americans will benefit from making these lower rates permanent. This package, also known as the Working Families Tax Cut, provides significant tax relief, particularly for families earning under $100,000. The average American taxpayer is projected to see a tax cut of approximately $3,752 in 2026, with families earning less than $50,000 benefiting from a 14.9% tax reduction. For a family of four earning under $100,000, this translates to an additional $600 in tax cuts compared to current law, and overall take-home pay will increase by up to $11,700 due to tax cuts and economic growth. Additionally, families will benefit from the $2,200 enhanced Child Tax Credit, the creation of the Trump Savings Accounts for every child born over the next three years, and the increase of the standard deduction by $1,500. Individuals in certain industries will see added relief with the elimination of taxes on tips and overtime, and retirees will benefit from a senior’s credit, which aims to reduce the tax burden on Social Security recipients. This historic legislation is full of pro-growth provisions for Kansans, which will increase wages for workers by up to $7,200. Immediate expensing of domestic R&D will stimulate innovation in our region, particularly in technology and aerospace manufacturing. The immediate deduction of machinery and equipment will encourage capital investment, which will lead to higher productivity and higher wages. Republicans in Congress are continuing to work with President Trump to deliver a golden age of prosperity and growth to the American people. I will continue to do my part in Congress to cut taxes, eliminate red tape, and ensure a bright future for Kansans and all Americans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=3B540250-2BBA-403E-8492-9C904D304D49,State of Kansas Announces Plans to Develop Application for the Rural Health Transformation Fund,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The State of Kansas initiated an application for the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which was created in the Reconciliation Bill to direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to work with states to identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers. Kansas providers are estimated to receive approximately $1 billion over the next five years. “Throughout the reconciliation process, I worked with my colleagues to establish $50 billion in funding for the Rural Health Transformation Program to invest in the success of rural health care and provide critical resources to hospitals in need,” said Sen. Moran. “With Kansas estimated to receive approximately $1 billion from this fund over the next five years, I look forward to working with the state government and the University of Kansas Health System Care Collaborative team to make certain Kansas providers receive the needed resources to improve the delivery of quality care to rural communities.” Governor Laura Kelly announced that the State of Kansas, in collaboration with the University of Kansas Health System Care Collaborative, will hold an educational webinar on Monday, September 29, at 9 a.m. CT to discuss the application and answer questions on stakeholder engagement throughout the process. Rural health care providers, state employees and interested members of the public are encouraged to register their interest through the Kansas Rural Health Innovation Alliance, created to oversee the application’s progress and implementation of Kansas’ rural health needs. Sen. Moran worked to establish the RHT provider fund as a part of the Reconciliation Bill, and met with Kansas hospital leaders from across the state to highlight changes made through the reconciliation process to support rural hospitals through the creation of this fund. To register for the educational webinar, please click here. To learn more about the Rural Health Transformation Program, click here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=03B97E44-2707-4FE8-8427-3E10167C50D1,"Sens. Moran, Warner, Scott, Gallego Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster American Entrepreneurship",2025-09-25,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) reintroduced the bipartisan Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act, which would increase the permitted size of angel funds to allow for a higher number of investors in start-up companies. By allowing more individual investors per angel fund and raising the fund’s cap, more investors will be able to invest at a lower rate. This will allow new investors who have less access to capital to invest in start-ups, expanding the funding base for early-stage startups. “Entrepreneurship is the bedrock of the American economy and the backbone of communities across our nation,” said Sen. Moran. “Expanding access to angel funds gives Main Street more opportunities to invest in startups while supporting the growth of American small businesses. This legislation represents a much needed change that encourages more companies to go public.” “Long before I entered politics, I was in business. I know first-hand how important early investments are for start-ups and small business owners,” said Sen. Warner. “This bipartisan legislation will allow entrepreneurs to raise more funds with more contributors, enable small start-ups to expand, and give individuals with less access to capital more opportunities to invest at lower rates.” “Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and every entrepreneur deserves the chance to turn their dreams into reality,” said Sen. Scott, Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. “Unfortunately, access to capital, especially in early-stage investment, has too often been limited to a select few. By opening the door to more investors, this legislation helps local business owners and entrepreneurs turn ideas into thriving companies, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen communities in South Carolina and across our nation.” “Too many promising start-ups hit a wall because they just can’t raise enough money to get their business off the ground,” said Sen. Gallego. “By raising the number of investors and the max these funds are able to receive, we can help more start-ups get the money they need to grow, create jobs, and strengthen our economy. I’m proud to help lead this bill to give more entrepreneurs a shot at the American Dream.” This legislation expands on the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief and Consumer Protection Act, which was signed into law in 2018 and included provisions by Sen. Moran to expand investment opportunities. The Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act would: Increase the max number of permitted angel investors from 250 to 500 Raise the cap on angel funds from $10 million to $50 million “Entrepreneurship is the driving force of economic growth and job creation in America, and capital is a critical resource entrepreneurs need to turn their innovative ideas into thriving businesses,” said John Dearie, President of the Center for American Entrepreneurship. “Many new businesses – particularly those that have the potential to grow very quickly – rely on investors who provide early-stage capital in exchange for an equity stake in the company. The bipartisan Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act addresses this problem by expanding parameters of section 3(c)(1) of the Investment Company Act to permit emerging fund managers to raise larger funds with a higher number of permitted investors. CAE thanks Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tim Scott (R-SC), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) for their leadership and looks forward to working with them and their Senate and House colleagues to see the bill swiftly enacted into law.” Full text of the legislation can be found HERE. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=18384E2B-A66F-44C8-A191-B0D66D792869,"Sens. Moran, Marshall Urge EPA to Reduce Burdensome Regulations on Small Oil & Gas Producers",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) today urged the Assistant Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Office of Air and Radiation, Aaron Szabo, to increase flexibility for small oil and gas producers as the agency revises its methane regulations. “The independent oil and gas producers across our state are typically small, family-owned businesses, operating companies, and royalty owners, in contrast to the vertically integrated ‘majors,’ ” wrote the senators. “In turn, the regulation should reflect the fact that oil and natural gas from these independent wells, known as ‘stripper’ wells, emit negligible levels of methane that fall below federal regulatory requirements.” “With the current costs associated with federal, state, and local regulations, the added burden of certain environmental regulations that offer little to no returned benefit to the environment is not justified,” the senators continued. “We want to do all we can to ensure our economy continues to grow and our nation’s energy independence is maintained through the continued success of the small businesses that are our independent oil and gas operators.” Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Aaron Szabo Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20004 Dear Assistant Administrator Szabo: Thank you for your work to bolster American energy production, lower consumer prices, and support responsible oil and gas production through sensible regulation at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Our state is home to thousands of independent oil and gas producers that provide a significant number of jobs across rural America and directly bolster domestic energy production. In order to allow those independent producers to continue producing energy and growing their businesses, we write to urge you to ensure minimum adverse impact and maximum flexibility for small oil and gas producers as you revise the 2025 Interim Final Rule for Standards of Performance for Crude Oil and Natural Gas Facilities for Which Construction, Modification or Reconstruction Commenced After December 6, 2022, 40 CFR part 60, subparts OOOOb and OOOOc. As you know, the current regulations set terms for quantifying methane emissions to meet EPA testing and inspection requirements required of all oil and gas operations. We are grateful that EPA is evaluating ways to address the concerns of traditional energy producers and mitigate burdensome requirements. As you do so, it is important to note that not all oil and gas operations are created equally. The independent oil and gas producers across our state are typically small, family-owned businesses, operating companies, and royalty owners, in contrast to the large vertically integrated “majors.” In turn, the regulation should reflect the fact that oil and natural gas from these independent wells, also known as “stripper” wells, emit negligible levels of methane that fall below federal regulatory requirements. These businesses are dedicated stewards of their land and understand the importance of balancing the economic impact of their operations with environmental protection. With the current costs associated with federal, state, and local regulations, the added burden of certain environmental regulations that offer little to no returned benefit to the environment is not justified. We want to do all we can to ensure our economy continues to grow and our nation’s energy independence is maintained through the continued success of the small businesses that are our independent oil and gas operators. Thank you for your consideration. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=301AF225-1E0B-491E-AA5A-78DC8F4D6707,"Sens. Moran, Ernst Introduce Bill to Increase Access to Commercial Driver’s Licenses During Harvest",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee – and U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) – a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee – introduced the Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act to help reduce burdensome regulations for seasonal agricultural drivers by allowing drivers to renew commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) online and updating classifications for farm equipment. “Kansas farmers, ranchers and agricultural producers depend on reliable, efficient transportation to move harvested crops from the fields to grain elevators and markets,” said Sen. Moran. “Our legislation would modernize the requirements for seasonal agricultural commercial driver’s licenses, making it easier for producers to renew their CDL and safely transport farm equipment and machinery during harvest.” “When harvest season comes around, our farmers have enough on their plates – they shouldn’t have to spend valuable time navigating bureaucratic red tape that hinders their work in the field and on the roads,” said Sen. Ernst. “My Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act would update outdated regulations by ensuring seasonal restricted CDL registrations and renewals can be filed online, and providing more flexibility for folks driving vehicles specifically designed for the farm. Let’s hit the gas and remove these regulatory speed bumps to ensure Iowa farmers and agricultural suppliers can easily transport what they need to operate effectively.” ""This legislation addresses challenges faced by Kansas farmers and agricultural service providers by providing necessary updates to modernize the Seasonal Ag commercial driver's license program that is heavily relied on during peak application and harvest seasons,” said Ronald Seeber, President and CEO, Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association. “The proposed measures are critical to the continued success and viability of the agricultural industry."" “Kansas Farm Bureau believes making modern updates to the seasonal CDL program is sound government policy that recognizes the reality of what farmers and ranchers face every day trying to feed the country,” said Joe Newland, President, Kansas Farm Bureau. “I applaud Sen. Moran’s leadership in introducing this commonsense proposal to save time, cut costs and support smoother operations in rural Kansas and beyond.” ""This legislation, led by Senators Moran and Ernst, modernizes outdated regulations to help agricultural retailers operate more efficiently and strengthen the supply chain,” said Richard Gupton, Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Counsel, Agricultural Retailers Association. “By allowing increased load capacities, it addresses driver shortages, reduces trips, and ensures timely delivery of essential goods—all while maintaining transportation safety."" The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act is supported by a number of agricultural leaders, including the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Corn Growers Association, Kansas Grain and Feed Association, Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Sorghum Producers and Kansas Soybean Association. Specifically, the legislation would: Allow Online Renewal of Farm-Related Commercial Driver’s Licenses – The legislation would authorize online renewal for restricted CDLs for farm-related service industries, streamlining the renewal process, reducing administrative regulatory burdens for seasonal agricultural drivers and expanding accessibility for workers in rural communities who may face challenges with in-person CDL renewal. Update Classification of Agricultural Tools and Vehicles Specifically Designed for Farm Use – The legislation reduces unnecessary restrictions and penalties on ag-related equipment by making certain these pieces of farm equipment (known as “Implements of Husbandry”) are not classified as commercial motor vehicles and do not contribute to the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) or Gross Weight Rating (GWR). Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02), Ron Estes (R-KS-04) and others. Full text of the legislation can be found HERE. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7214,Estes Votes for Social Security Legislation in Ways & Means Committee,2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), Chair of the Social Security Subcommittee, participated in a Ways & Means legislation markup covering a variety of legislation concerning Social Security, healthcare, and taxes. Specifically, Rep. Estes voted to pass two pieces of legislation out of the Ways & Means Committee during a markup. The pieces of legislation focus on helping victims of identity theft, including children. These pieces of legislation are intended to improve protection and reinforce security of an American’s identity. Read more about the Improving Social Security’s Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act here and the Social Security Child Protection Act here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=DE792DFC-0CDE-4D5A-B9A9-6B886E154804,Sen. Moran Joins Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Counter Fentanyl-Laced Pill Production,2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies – joined Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) in introducing the Fight Illicit Pill Presses Act, which would help stop the production of counterfeit and fentanyl-laced pills and make it easier for federal law enforcement to take action against cartels by requiring pill presses, punches and dyes to be engraved with serial numbers. In 2024, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized more than 61.1 million fentanyl-laced pills. With these illicit drugs on the rise, many cartels have gained access to the same type of pill presses used by pharmaceutical companies in order to create counterfeit pills that are often indistinguishable from real medication. The Controlled Substances Act currently requires companies to keep records on the distribution of pill press equipment, which helps the DEA track and seize pill presses used to manufacture fentanyl-laced pills. But while illicit pill presses have been seized in 43 states, many reports suggest these seizures only account for a small number of those being used by cartels. “Fentanyl has taken the lives of thousands of Americans and continues to be a leading cause of death in the United States,” said Sen. Moran. “By imposing penalties for removing or altering serial numbers on pill presses, law enforcement will be able to more effectively target those responsible for the production of counterfeit fentanyl-laced pills and help prevent drug traffickers from flooding our country with these deadly substances.” “Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans age 18 to 45, which underscores just how prevalent this silent killer is in our communities,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Our bill would require the serialization of pill presses, punches, and dies to help law enforcement better detect, trace, and prosecute the cartels who produce these deadly pills and perpetuate the fentanyl crisis across our country.” “Fentanyl is killing more young Americans than anything else right now, and fake pills are one of the most dangerous ways these synthetic opioids are getting into our communities,” said Sen. Fetterman. “By requiring serial numbers on pill presses and the tools that make them, this bill gives law enforcement another way to track the chain of custody and hold people who are profiting off of addiction accountable.” “Communities across North Carolina and the country continue to suffer from the devastating impact of fentanyl, and we must do everything we can to disrupt the cartels and traffickers flooding our streets with these deadly drugs,” said Sen. Tillis. “The Fight Illicit Pill Presses Act will give law enforcement an important tool to track down and hold criminals accountable, and I am proud to support this effort to help save lives.” “Fentanyl has devastated families across Minnesota and this crisis is being fueled by those who use pill presses to make counterfeit drugs. We need to do more to fight traffickers and protect communities,” said Sen. Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation will require pill presses and their critical parts to have a serial number, which will help law enforcement, fight counterfeit pill production, reduce overdoses, and ultimately save lives.” This legislation would: Assist the DEA and other federal law enforcement agencies in solving crimes against drug trafficking and trace pill presses back to cartels by amending the Controlled Substances Act to require that all encapsulating machines, tableting machines, punches and dyes be engraved with a serial number; Require all serial numbers be filed with the DEA on the forms that already have to be submitted for pill press machines; and Impose criminal penalties for the removal or alteration of the serial number and for the transportation or possession of any pill press with a removed or altered serial number. The legislation is endorsed by National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition (NNOAC), National HIDTA Directors Association, CADCA, National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA), Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA) and Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z https://estes.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7213,Estes Announces Co-Chairmanship of Congressional Musicians’ Caucus,2025-09-22,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Ron Estes,E000298,estes.house.gov,estes,https://estes.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced his co-chairmanship of the House Congressional Musicians’ Caucus alongside Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas). The caucus is dedicated to supporting musicians and advancing the music industry, ensuring this vital sector continues to fuel creativity and economic growth across the nation. As part of this effort, Congressman Estes led the charge to introduce and pass the Help Independent Tracks Succeed (HITS) Act, which allows artists and musicians to expense sound recording production costs in one year rather than stretching them out over time. This provision was included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. “Joining my colleague, Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), as co-chair of the Congressional Musicians' Caucus is an honor and a great opportunity to recognize how music has impacted the lives and history of Americans,” said Rep. Estes. “We will work to feature the incredible role music plays in bringing Americans together, fostering creativity, and enriching our communities. From the heartland of Kansas to every corner of our great nation, music unites us, inspires the next generation, and strengthens our heritage. I look forward to working across the aisle to support the music industry, ensure the arts continue to thrive for all, and enjoy many styles and varieties of music that can be created.” “Music doesn’t take sides—it takes the stage and asks us to listen. From my hometown of Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World, to music classrooms and performance venues across the country, crowds become communities,” said Rep. Doggett. “My good friend, Ron Estes, gets this rhythm by uplifting the artists, educators, and engineers who shape the industry and inspire future musicians. I’m pleased to have him join our mission as a Co-Chair, and look forward to working together to create a more inclusive landscape that benefits us all.” Background: May 2025 – Rep. Estes Applauds Ways and Means Tax Legislation Vote February 2025 – Reps. Estes, Sánchez Reintroduce the HITS Act September 2022 – Rep. Estes Introduces Resolution Honoring Walnut Valley Festival's 50th Year",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mann-keeps-government-functioning,Rep. Mann Keeps Government Functioning,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Tracey Mann,M000871,mann.house.gov,mann,https://mann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance a clean, short-term funding bill to keep the government open as Congress finishes the appropriations process. H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026, which passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 217-212, funds the federal government for seven weeks while giving the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate time to finish the remaining appropriations bills. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote. “The harsh reality is our national debt is unsustainable,” said Rep. Mann. “For years, elected officials have come to Washington, D.C. ringing the alarm on our national debt. I applaud President Trump’s bold leadership in being the first president to go line by line through the federal budget and evaluate how our tax dollars are being spent. Now, Congress has to do its part to get our spending under control by returning to regular order and passing individual appropriations bills. Unfortunately, the consensus among too many in Washington is that they’d rather see President Trump fail than work together to keep the government functioning and funded responsibly. It’s unfortunate that some prefer to grandstand and try to score political points rather than to do what’s best for the country. It is time to stop the political theatre and work together to get our fiscal house in order.” The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2026 will now go to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-schmidt-statement-passage-resolution-honoring-life-and-legacy,Congressman Schmidt statement on passage of resolution honoring the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) issued the following statement regarding passage of H.Res.719, honoring the life and legacy of Charles “Charlie” Kirk: “The murder of Charlie Kirk was an attack on civil discourse and dialogue in our great country. Like all Americans of goodwill, I condemn it in the strongest possible terms. I am proud to be a cosponsor of today’s resolution honoring Charlie’s life and legacy and commend its passage by the House of Representatives. Unfortunately, I was detained by an unanticipated meeting with constituents that prevented me from reaching the House floor in time to cast my vote in favor of the resolution, but I would proudly have cast my vote for it. Political violence has no place in our United States of America.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-derek-schmidt-now-accepting-applications-us-military-academy-nominations,Rep. Derek Schmidt now accepting applications for U.S. Military Academy nominations,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,House,KS,Derek Schmidt,S001228,schmidt.house.gov,schmidt,https://schmidt.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC: Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) announced today that his office is now accepting applications from Kansas students seeking nominations to attend the United States military service academies for the Class of 2030. Each year, Members of Congress may nominate a limited number of candidates for appointment to the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Students who receive a nomination are considered for appointment by the respective academy’s admissions board. “Service academies provide exceptional opportunities for young Kansans to pursue higher education while preparing to serve our country as officers in the Armed Forces,” Schmidt said. “I encourage all qualified students who are interested in military service to apply.” Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 17 years old but not yet 23, unmarried and without dependents. Applicants seeking nomination from Congressman Schmidt also must reside in the 2nd Congressional District. A complete application packet must be submitted to Congressman Schmidt’s Topeka office by October 15.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=0F39762F-8E04-4072-BF1E-46F75F6F27D9,Applications Now Open For $50 Billion Rural Health Transformation Program,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Republican,Senate,KS,Jerry Moran,M000934,www.moran.senate.gov,moran,https://www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today announced that applications are open for states to access funding from the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, which was created in the Reconciliation Bill to direct the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to work with states to identify the root challenges facing rural health providers and invest in solutions to improve outcomes for struggling providers. Kansas providers are estimated to receive approximately $1 billion over the next five years. Applications are now open for states to apply for this opportunity with CMS. In the coming days, the State of Kansas will provide more information on the process Kansas will use to assemble its application. “The Rural Health Transformation Program is a significant investment in rural health care and will help improve outcomes for struggling hospitals, invest in new technology and bolster rural communities,” said Sen. Moran. “I worked with my colleagues to establish this critical fund, and every state will have the opportunity to submit a one-time application tailored to the needs of the state, with no match required by the state. I look forward to working with our health care leaders and Governor Kelly to make certain Kansas providers can receive the resources they need to improve the long-term success of rural providers.” Sen. Moran helped establish the rural provider fund as a part of the Reconciliation Bill, which was signed into law by the President on July 4. On July 3, Sen. Moran joined a town hall with more than 100 Kansas hospital leaders to outline changes made in the Reconciliation Bill for rural hospitals specifically, highlighting the Rural Health Transformation Program. State employees, health care providers and interested members of the public will be able to participate in several webinars with CMS to learn how to strengthen and aid in the submission of their state’s one-time application for federal resources. Last week, CMS also approved Kansas’ 2025 provider tax preprint, increasing the hospital provider tax to 6% from 3%. This will generate revenue from prospective payment system (PPS) hospitals in Kansas, which in turn is matched by federal Medicaid dollars. This change will increase Medicaid rates to Kansas hospitals and physicians and is expected to generate approximately $1 billion annually for Kansas hospitals. Items to note: Funds from the program will be allocated to approved states over five years, with $10 billion available each year from Fiscal Year 2026 through Fiscal Year 2030. The funding requires no state match; it is a federal-only investment aimed at helping to improve outcomes for struggling healthcare providers. This is a one-time application with no renewal required, making certain states and providers have access to the funding over the next five years without needing to reapply. Community health centers, struggling urban hospitals, federally qualified health centers, opioid treatment programs, community mental health centers and community behavioral health clinics in Kansas will also be eligible recipients of this investment. In collaboration with CMS, states must submit detailed rural health transformation plans for improving access to care. CMS will monitor implementation in order to make certain resources are being targeted to best support struggling providers and improve health outcomes in rural communities. The deadline for states to apply is November 5, 2025; awardee decisions will be made by December 31, 2025. CMS will hold an informational webinar for stakeholders on the RHT Program today, September 19, 2025 at 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. CT. Register in advance for this webinar HERE. After registering, individuals will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. More information on the Rural Health Transformation Program and details on how to apply can be found HERE. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z