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://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republicans-demand-answers-on-postal-delays-following-issues-in-city-of-carver,"Emmer, Minnesota Republicans Demand Answers on Postal Delays Following Issues in City of Carver",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—Every member of Minnesota’s Republican congressional delegation, Representatives Brad Finstad (MN-01), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) and Pete Stauber (MN-08), joined a letter led by Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) addressing the postal delays which have impacted homes and businesses across Minnesota. The letter to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy is the delegation’s second inquiry into the United States Postal Service (USPS) service delays this year. “We have heard consistent concerns from Carver residents that their everyday mail service is delayed and unreliable. Even though our local mail carriers are working overtime, they simply can’t keep up with their routes,” Emmer said.“Sixth District residents rely on timely mail service and their mail carriers deserve to be compensated for their hard work. Postmaster General DeJoy must answer for these persistent delays across our state.” The members wrote: We are writing to you regarding the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) operation within the Minnesota-North Dakota Region. In the middle of one of the busiest seasons for mail and package delivery, we are extremely concerned about the current state of mail delivery in Minnesota. Nearly a year ago, we shared our concerns over the lack of mail delivery and delays across Minnesota that worsened during the holiday season. A month after the initial letter, we received a response stating that mail service was delayed due to staffing shortages and inclement weather, and that the USPS was working on solutions to provide Minnesotans with reliable, timely mail services. Unfortunately, we are in an identical situation a year later. Our offices have received many complaints from constituents that they are not receiving mail at a consistent rate, some going without mail for up to a week. It was recently announced by the Inspector General that four post offices in the south metro would be receiving audits and Congressman Stauber’s office was informed that the Bemidji and Blackduck post offices would receive audits as well. We are aware the USPS is facing a staffing shortage across the state and there is significant burnout among current employees. While it is welcomed news that the Minnesota-North Dakota Region has been holding job fairs in an effort to hire additional staff, we are concerned about the recent reports that USPS workers are working overtime without receiving correlating pay. Mail carriers in the Twin Cities metropolitan area have been working 60-to-80-hour weeks just to keep up with demand. Additionally, it was reported that some Minnesota Post Offices are directing their employees to set aside traditional USPS mail delivery for other non-traditional mail deliveries. Our constituents, especially those in rural areas, rely on the USPS to pay their bills, get their prescriptions, and keep in touch with their loved ones. To further understand the actions that the USPS is taking, please provide a response to the following questions: What steps has the USPS taken to ensure that Minnesotans are able to receive their mail and packages during the holiday season? Given the recent news that the Bemidji Post Office instructed their mail carriers to work extended hours without overtime pay, are any other post offices in Minnesota offering similar instructions to their employees? Are Minnesota Post Offices instructing their carriers to prioritize deliveries other than traditional mail? What steps, other than career fairs, is the USPS taking to recruit and retain workers? How did the Inspector General determine which post offices in Minnesota would receive an audit? Is there potential for any additional post offices in Minnesota to receive an audit or the possibility for a statewide audit? It is imperative that the USPS finds solutions to ensure that Minnesotans receive their mail in a timely fashion, while providing a safe working environment for their employees. Thank you for your prompt consideration of our questions. Background This month, constituents in the City of Carver have contacted Rep. Emmer’s office regarding mail delays, with some residents not receiving mail for five days. Additionally, as the City of Carver’s population continues to grow, the city’s post office faces capacity and space issues including reports that postal workers previously had to sort mail in the parking lot. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/12/icymi-house-members-disappointed-in-usmca-ruling,ICYMI House Members Disappointed in USMCA Ruling,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Reps. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Mike Bost (R-IL), Jim Costa (D-CA), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Annie Kuster (D-NH), and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) led 56 of their colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack expressing their disappointment in the recent dispute settlement ruling on Canada’s dairy tariff rate quota (TRQ) allocation measures under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The ruling raises significant questions regarding fair market access for American dairy producers and processors involved in the Canadian food and agriculture sector. “The latest USMCA panel decision is extremely disappointing and leaves America’s dairy industry at a disadvantage. But my colleagues and I will not give up. We are exploring other tools and opportunities to ensure U.S. dairy producers get fair access to Canadian export markets, and this letter encouraging the Administration to do the same is the first step of many,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “I look forward to a swift response and to working with USTR and USDA on solutions.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/2023-financial-services-year-in-review,2023 Financial Services Year in Review,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"2023 has been a year of action and progress in the House Financial Services Committee. Under Republican leadership, we have moved legislation to bolster our capital markets, promote innovation, and hold unelected bureaucrats accountable. Here is a quick look back at some key milestones: In April, our office passed three bills out of the Financial Services Committee: The CFPB Dual Mandate and Economic Analysis Act prioritizes competition, consumer choice, and transparency at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The CFPB Whistleblower Incentives and Protection Act empowers whistleblowers to expose wrongdoing in the financial industry. The Small Business Entrepreneurs Empowerment and Development (SEED) Act makes it easier for small businesses to access capital, fueling American entrepreneurship. In July, we helped pave the way for digital asset innovation in the United States with: The Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act will streamline money transmission regulations, removing a major roadblock for digital asset innovators. The Securities Clarity Act (embedded in the FIT for the 21st Century Act) laid the foundation for the Ripple decision, clarifying that a token itself isn’t automatically a securities contract. Both bills passed out of the Financial Services Committee and are awaiting a vote in the House of Representatives. In September, we took a stand in defense of privacy and individual liberty with the: CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act which prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) directly to anyone. The CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act passed out of the House Financial Services Committee and is awaiting a vote on the House floor. In November, we sent a strong message to Gary Gensler and the SEC: The House of Representatives passed our appropriations amendment barring the SEC from using taxpayer dollars on its crypto enforcement tirade until Congress passes legislation giving the SEC jurisdiction over this budding industry. And this is just the beginning. In 2024, we will build on this momentum, bringing these reforms to the House floor and delivering real results for the American people. We are committed to fostering a dynamic and transparent financial system that empowers innovators, protects consumers, and fuels economic growth. Rest assured my friends, a new day is coming.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T22:34:08Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-reintroduces-legislation-modernize-endangered-species-act,Stauber Reintroduces Legislation to Modernize the Endangered Species Act,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) re-introduced the ESA Flexibility Act. This legislation will grant landowners leeway and the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) flexibility when dealing with endangered species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Joining Congressman Stauber in introducing the legislation is House Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Rep. Cliff Bentz (OR-02), Rep. Harriet Hageman (WY at-large), and Rep. Lauren Boebert (CO-03). “I’m pleased to introduce the ESA Flexibility Act today, which creates latitude for species listed as threatened or endangered,” said Congressman Stauber. “If we’re to build infrastructure, permit electricity transmission, mine for resources needed for everyday life, and properly manage our forests, we need commonsense habitat conservation plans that protect wildlife without harming our economy. The ESA Flexibility Act will allow for better management of species listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, such as the Northern Long-Eared Bat. Stauber continued, “The flexibility given to the Secretary of the Interior under this bill will allow for fit-for-purpose protections for species like the Northern Long-Eared Bat, while still allowing for responsible logging and land management across Northern Minnesota. Although my commonsense bill is a small step forward, I hope we build on this reform to make the ESA work for people and animals once again."" “This year marks the 50th anniversary of the ESA, and its disappointing track record highlights the urgent need for reform,” said Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse (WA-04). “I’m proud to join Western Caucus Vice Chair Stauber in re-introducing this legislation to provide the Fish and Wildlife Service with additional flexibilities in implementing regulations to recover species while avoiding actions detrimental to landowners. Western Caucus members will continue to prioritize reforming the ESA to make sure the law works better for both species and rural America.” Background There are currently two classifications under the Endangered Species Act (ESA): endangered and threatened. Section 4(d) of the ESA provides flexibility for threatened species, allowing the Department of the Interior and the Fish and Wildlife Service to develop fit-for-purpose regulations to help maintain and improve threatened species' status, while simultaneously reducing undue regulatory burdens that are affecting energy development, farming, and logging activities. The ESA Flexibility Act will help further alleviate the undue regulatory burdens posed by the ESA by expanding section 4(d) and allowing the Secretary of the Interior to also utilize 4(d) rules for species listed as endangered. The ESA Flexibility Act will allow for better, fit-for-purpose management of endangered species across Northern Minnesota, such as the Northern Long-Eared Bat, while still supporting responsible land use and management. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-chairman-bost-host-roundtable-with-speaker-johnson-and-veteran-service-organizations,"Emmer, Chairman Bost Host Roundtable with Speaker Johnson and Veteran Service Organizations",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Emmer with Sixth District veteran Keith Kiefer “Our nation is indebted to our service members, veterans, and their families,” said Emmer. “We were glad to highlight Keith’s service and his work in Minnesota and across the nation on behalf of the veteran community. The Sixth District’s more than 38,000 veterans deserve our continued support and straightforward access to the benefits they have earned. We will continue working with Chairman Bost and Speaker Johnson to provide for these heroes and their families.” Kiefer said, “It was an honor to be invited and attend the veterans’ stakeholder event hosted by Congressman Emmer. As the National Commander of the National Association of Atomic Veterans (NAAV), I, along with the other Veteran Service Organizations, believe the Members of Congress in attendance want to make a positive difference for the veterans and their families. Each represented organization had the opportunity to share their organization’s top legislative agenda, provide comments and ask questions. This open-office communication is a key component to solving veterans’ issues. I thank the members and VSOs for their contributions.” “As Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I always appreciate hearing from our Veteran Service Organization partners to keep a pulse on what’s important to everyday veterans across the country,” said Chairman Bost. “I am grateful to my friends, our Whip Tom Emmer and Speaker Mike Johnson, for hosting this important stakeholder discussion today. We must continue fighting for the men and women who have served and conversations like this help to make that happen. Important work has been done by this majority, and I assure you we will hit the ground running next year to continue delivering for veterans, their families, and their survivors.” “America owes our veterans a limitless debt of gratitude for their service, and Congress has a moral obligation to pay it down,” said Speaker Johnson. “We are grateful to the many veterans’ service organizations who joined us for this roundtable, and I thank Whip Emmer and Chairman Bost for their efforts to support America’s veterans.” Emmer, Chairman Bost, and Speaker Johnson were joined by Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Gregory F. Murphy (R-NC), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Keith Self (R-TX), and Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA). VSOs represented include America’s Warrior Partnership, AMVETS, Blinded Veterans Association, Blue Star Families, Disabled American Veterans, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the U.S., Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Military Officers Association of America, Mission Roll Call, National Association of Atomic Veterans, National Association of State Approving Agencies, Inc., National Defense Committee, National Organization of Veterans’ Advocates, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Student Veterans of America, The American Legion, The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, and Wounded Warrior Project. Background This Congress, Emmer helped key veteran-focused bills pass the House floor. These include: The RELIEVE Act, which will open up community care options to veterans for emergency treatment, allowing veterans in need to access care at local hospitals when they need it most. The Wounded Warrior Access Act, which establishes as secure online resource for veterans to submit electronic requests for claim records, ending the antiquated requirement for veterans to go in-person to a VA facility or mail a form to request a paper copy of their claims. In July, Emmer hosted an event with members of the Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota at VFW Post 428 to provide updates on the work being done to support disabled veterans and their families. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-pens-letters-governor-walz-and-irs-commissioner-rebate-failure,Stauber Pens Letters to Governor Walz and IRS Commissioner on Rebate Failure,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) recently sent two letters, one to Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz and one to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, to address the failure of Governor Walz and the DFL-led state legislature to send rebate checks by the deadline mandated by the Biden Administration. This failure will result in Minnesota’s citizens paying federal taxes on these rebates. In his letter to Governor Walz, Congressman Stauber highlighted the consequences of this massive failure, by stating, “At a time when inflation and energy prices are crippling Minnesota families, making them choose between putting food on the table or gifts under the Christmas tree for their children, this tax rebate was meant to provide a little financial reprieve. Because of your failures, Minnesotans could lose hundreds of millions of dollars.” Read the full letter HERE. In his letter to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, Stauber requested the IRS immediately reverse the decision to tax Minnesotans on their rebate checks, stating, “Minnesota ranks sixth on the list of highest state income taxes. We share more taxpayer dollars with the federal government than we ever get back. I implore you to take stock of my constituents as good, hardworking people who should not be unduly punished for the failures and delays of their state leadership.” Read the full letter HERE. Stauber is scheduled to speak with IRS Commissioner Werfel on Friday on this matter. BACKGROUND: During the forced government shutdowns of the last few years, states could send money to their residents tax-free to alleviate some of their financial stress. On January 30, 2023, President Joe Biden stated that he would end the national emergencies related to COVID-19 on May 11, 2023. Although most states were able to get their affairs in order and provide rebate checks before May 11, Governor Walz failed to sign legislation for tax rebates until May 23, 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/12/house-votes-to-formally-open-impeachment-inquiry-into-president-biden,House Votes to Formally Open Impeachment Inquiry into President Biden,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, the House of Representatives voted to formally open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. ""Several committees, including the Ways and Means Committee, have gathered hundreds of pages of testimony causing grave concern about the President's conduct,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""With tonight's vote, we have reasserted Congress' authority to gather all the necessary evidence to complete its investigation and get the American people the answers they deserve.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-honors-us-air-force-major-jeffrey-t-hoernemann-on-house-floor,Emmer Honors U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann on House Floor,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in memory of U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann. Maj. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover was one of eight airmen killed last week when their Osprey aircraft crashed over the coast of Yakushima Island, Japan during a routine training mission. He served as a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training. Hoernemann was assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron at Yokata Air Base. You can read Emmer’s remarks in full below: I rise to honor U.S. Air Force Major Jeff Hoernemann of Andover. Jeff lost his life last week, along with seven other airmen, during a routine training mission off the coast of Japan. He was just 32 years old. Throughout his life, Jeff had a competitive spirit and was uniquely disciplined. A graduate of Andover High School, Jeff broke school and conference records in the indoor 800 meters and four by 800-meter relay. As a teenager, he won a fifteen-thousand-dollar scholarship with an essay describing his careful budgeting to purchase a bike for triathlons. After competing in cross country and earning a degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University, Jeff entered the Air Force. In 2016, he became a pilot after completing Columbus Air Force Base’s Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class. Jeff dedicated his life to service and made the ultimate sacrifice. Today, across the city of Andover, the state of Minnesota, and this county, we honor his life and preserve his memory. Our prayers are with Jeff’s wife, Jess; his parents, Thomas and Catherine; and his brother, Jared. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-honors-us-air-force-major-jeffrey-t-hoernemann-on-house-floor-0,Emmer Honors U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann on House Floor,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in memory of U.S. Air Force Major Jeffrey T. Hoernemann. Maj. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover was one of eight airmen killed last week when their Osprey aircraft crashed over the coast of Yakushima Island, Japan during a routine training mission. He served as a CV-22 instructor pilot and officer in charge of training. Hoernemann was assigned to the 21st Special Operations Squadron at Yokata Air Base. You can read Emmer’s remarks in full below: I rise to honor U.S. Air Force Major Jeff Hoernemann of Andover. Jeff lost his life last week, along with seven other airmen, during a routine training mission off the coast of Japan. He was just 32 years old. Throughout his life, Jeff had a competitive spirit and was uniquely disciplined. A graduate of Andover High School, Jeff broke school and conference records in the indoor 800 meters and four by 800-meter relay. As a teenager, he won a fifteen-thousand-dollar scholarship with an essay describing his careful budgeting to purchase a bike for triathlons. After competing in cross country and earning a degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University, Jeff entered the Air Force. In 2016, he became a pilot after completing Columbus Air Force Base’s Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class. Jeff dedicated his life to service and made the ultimate sacrifice. Today, across the city of Andover, the state of Minnesota, and this county, we honor his life and preserve his memory. Our prayers are with Jeff’s wife, Jess; his parents, Thomas and Catherine; and his brother, Jared. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-reintroduces-landmark-legislation-to-promote-main-street-capital-formation,Emmer Reintroduces Landmark Legislation to Promote Main Street Capital Formation,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) re-introduced the Main Street Growth Act to create more jobs, improve capital formation, and encourage more Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). The bipartisan bill is co-led by Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). The Main Street Growth Act allows the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to provide for the creation of venture exchanges, which will foster an active and liquid secondary trading environment for small and emerging growth companies to access the capital they need to grow. These exchanges will encourage more early-stage IPOs, which, in turn, will enable retail investors to invest in early-stage, high-growth companies potentially previously restricted to accredited investors. ""When businesses go public, jobs are created and new centers of wealth are formed. However, IPOs are on a steep decline, which means more exciting investment opportunities are reserved for accredited investors instead of everyday Americans. Recognizing the continued challenges we face in courting new IPOs, and, understanding that liquidity is key for small companies interested in going public as well as securities currently trading in the marketplace, it is clear that we must take steps to better tailor our markets in order to account for the varying size and nature of potential public companies if we are to encourage new capital formation. I look forward to working with my colleagues to support the success of our nation’s entrepreneurs and capital markets,"" Emmer said. “California’s 19th Congressional District is home to many transformative small businesses that too often find access to existing capital markets limited,” said Rep. Panetta. “The bipartisan Main Street Growth Act would empower the federal government to create specialized venture exchanges, critical to getting the capital these fledgling businesses need to grow and thrive. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and essential to fostering the future innovation we’ll need to stay ahead, and I’ll continue working to ensure they have a strong foundation for success.” Background While American capital markets saw a historic rise in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) in 2020 and 2021, participation in the IPO process has slowed dramatically over the last few decades. The number of IPOs declined significantly from the 1990s to the 2000s and remained relatively flat throughout the 2010s. Additionally, the number of small IPOs (under $100 million) has declined significantly. The Main Street Growth Act builds on the success of the 2012 JOBS Act, which allowed businesses greater access to crowdfunding and expanded the number of companies that can offer stock without going through burdensome SEC registration. Specifically, the Main Street Growth Act allows for the creation of venture exchanges, which are markets that are designed specifically to support the trading of small and emerging growth companies as well as currently listed, but liquidity-challenged securities. The Main Street Growth Act received unanimous support from the House Financial Services Committee and passed the House of Representatives during the 115th Congress with no opposition. You can read the full text of the Main Street Growth Act here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/staubers-bill-restore-alaskan-energy-production-passes-out-natural-resources,Stauber’s Bill to Restore Alaskan Energy Production Passes Out of Natural Resources Committee,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Natural Resources Committee advanced Congressman Pete Stauber’s (MN-08) bipartisan Alaska’s Right to Produce Act, which will reverse the Biden Administration’s decision to block domestic energy development on Alaska’s North Slope. Specifically, this bill will reverse the Biden Department of the Interior (DOI)’s decision to ban oil and gas development on 13 million acres within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A). Additionally, this legislation will reinstate the lawfully awarded leases the Biden DOI cancelled in the non-wilderness Coastal Plain of the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Of this bill’s passage out of committee, Stauber said, “As Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, I’m working to stop the Biden Administration’s ‘anywhere but America, and worker but American’ energy policies. The Biden Administration’s decision to take these resources offline without consulting the Alaska Native communities most impacted by this decision will have terrible repercussions for the state of Alaska and the entire United States, including job loss and higher energy costs. By reversing Biden’s harmful actions on Alaska’s North Slope, my bill will lower energy costs for Americans, create economic opportunities for Native communities, and reduce our dangerous reliance on foreign nations for our energy needs. I’m proud to see this legislation advance through committee with bipartisan support, and I will continue to push until it becomes law.” House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman stated, “President Biden's decision to cancel the remaining leases in the 1002 Area of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge was a slap in the face to the hard-working Alaskans whose livelihoods depend on state energy production. This decision ignored local voices and will be devastating for North Slope communities as well as the larger Alaskan economy as energy revenues support essential services from infrastructure to hospitals and schools. H.R. 6285 will reverse this disastrous decision and help those President Biden's agenda has left behind. Representative Stauber has been a leading voice in Congress to counter the administration's war on energy, and I am ready to continue to work with him to pass this bill into law.” This legislation is supported by Alaska’s entire Congressional delegation. This legislation is not the first that Stauber has introduced to reverse a harmful decision made by the Biden Administration’s DOI. In the 118th Congress, Stauber has championed legislation to reverse the DOI’s decision to withdraw 225,500 acres from mining activity within the Superior National Forest. Learn more HERE. Congressman Stauber is currently serving his first term as Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/12/congresswoman-fischbach-meets-with-service-academy-nominees,Congresswoman Fischbach Meets with Service Academy Nominees,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Willmar, MN - Each year, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach has the opportunity to nominate students to the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. This year, Congresswoman Fischbach nominated nine high school seniors for the service academies. If students are accepted, upon their graduation, the cadets will earn a Bachelor of Science degree and become commissioned as an officer in the U.S. military with a requirement to serve a minimum of five years in active-duty service. “I am honored to nominate such remarkable students from Minnesota’s Seventh District to the United States Service Academies,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “It is encouraging to see young men and women with such promising futures feel called to serve our country. I join their families and communities in celebrating this achievement, and I look forward to watching them grow into the leaders of tomorrow. ” The Congresswoman is nominating Christian Bachmann of Motley to the U.S. Military, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Naval Academies; Avery Browen of Detroit Lakes to the U.S. Naval Academy; Calvert Burkholder of Alexandria to the U.S. Military, U.S. Naval, and U.S. Air Force Academies; Ariana Doll of Frazee to the U.S. Naval and U.S. Air Force Academies; Ashley Eblen of Belgrade to the U.S. Air Force Academy; Ellie Gertken of Richmond to the U.S. Military and U.S. Naval Academies; Eli Hanson of Sartell to the U.S. Air Force Academy; Bjorn Messick of Fertile to the U.S. Air Force Academy; and Leo Nordick of Fergus Falls to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (not pictured). If you or someone you know is interested in attending a service academy, they can apply directly to Congresswoman Fischbach’s office. The Congresswoman’s Service Academy Board interviews candidates and makes nomination recommendations. For more information or to begin the application process, please visit her website.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-new-va-outpatient-center-in-st-cloud,Emmer Applauds New VA Outpatient Center in St. Cloud,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, following the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement about the addition of a new Vet Center Outstation in St. Cloud, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) released the following statement: ""The Sixth District’s more than thirty thousand veterans deserve quick access to mental health care when they need it, not weeks or months down the line. The new Saint Cloud outstation is a worthy investment in the wellbeing of Minnesota veterans and will provide much-needed mental health resources to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our nation."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/rep-fischbach-reintroduces-the-law-enforcement-education-grant-program-act,Rep. Fischbach reintroduces the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) reintroduced the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act with Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Rep. Clay Higgins (LA-3). ""Unfortunately, police forces across the country are facing workforce shortages. Congress has an opportunity to support young people who are looking to their futures and want to serve their communities,"" said Congresswoman Fischbach. ""Unlike broad-stroke student loan forgiveness programs, the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program Act provides a targeted approach to specifically invest in well-trained and highly educated police officers at a time when our country desperately needs it. I am proud to introduce this legislation to encourage young people to join the next generation of law enforcement."" The Congresswoman thanks Reps. Stauber and Higgins for co-sponsoring this piece of legislation. “As a former police officer, I know that a properly staffed and trained police force is necessary to keep our communities safe. Unfortunately, the law enforcement community is struggling to recruit new officers due to the radical left’s efforts to defund and disparage the police. By improving education benefits and recruiting through the establishment of the Law Enforcement Education Grant Program, interested recruits will have a new incentive to join the police force and will be better prepared to serve and defend our communities. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Fischbach in sponsoring this legislation,"" said Congressman Pete Stauber. “I will always stand with my Brothers and Sisters of the Thin Blue Line. This pro-law enforcement bill is critical in assisting the retention and recruitment of officers,” said Congressman Clay Higgins.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/rep-fischbach-on-usmca-dispute-settlement-panel-decision,Rep. Fischbach on USMCA Dispute Settlement Panel Decision,2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - The United States - Mexico - Canada Agreement (USMCA) dispute settlement panel has released a report stating that Canada's dairy tariff-rate quota (TRQ) allocation measures do not breach USMCA agreements. ""The USMCA was intended to level the playing field between the three countries. I am extremely disappointed in the USMCA panel's decision and stand with America's dairy industry, who are being left at a disadvantage with regard to Canada's TRQ allocation measures,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""Trade opportunities need to be increased, rather than stifled as they are in this decision, which favored Canada's historically restrictive structure. I will continue to work for increased market access for our dairy farmers in Canada and across the world.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-letter-demands-answers-postal-issues-minnesota,Stauber Letter Demands Answers on Postal Issues in Minnesota,2023-11-27,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) recently sent a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy demanding information on a variety of issues impacting United States Postal Service (USPS) operations in Minnesota, including alleged unfair working conditions for USPS employees and the supposed prioritization of third-party packages over essential items like bills and medications. This letter was sent in response to a number of complaints the Congressman’s office has received from impacted postal workers and residents in the Brainerd and Bemidji areas. The letter reads (in part), “The welfare of our constituents and the integrity of postal service operations are of utmost importance. Reports of alleged prioritization of certain third-party packages over essential mail, such as medications, bills, and paychecks, are of serious concern. Moreover, the reports of employees working without adequate benefits and fair compensation are deeply troubling. Our dedicated postal workers deserve better treatment and fair employment conditions as they tirelessly serve our communities.” Stauber’s letter also outlines his concerns with a Biden Administration policy that earmarks $3 billion for the procurement of a fleet of electric vehicles for the USPS. The letter reads (in part), “I wonder whether the acquisition of electric vehicles, which are unreliable in cold weather climates like Minnesota, is the most judicious use of resources at this juncture given the financial challenges plaguing the USPS.” Congressman Stauber has reached out to USPS leadership multiple times over the past year to ask how they plan how to fix these issues, and this letter reiterates many of the questions he has asked in the past. One question included in the letter that the Congressman has not asked before is whether redirecting the funds currently designated for the USPS electric vehicle fleet toward bolstering staffing levels and enhancing employee benefits would more effectively meet the needs of the floundering USPS. Stauber’s letter demands DeJoy provide answers to his questions by December 4th. Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-house-progress-on-carver-county-infrastructure-project,Emmer Applauds House Progress on Carver County Infrastructure Project,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CARVER COUNTY, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that funding for a Carver County infrastructure project had passed the House of Representatives. “This funding will ensure Minnesotans’ water is clean and represents our continued effort to invest in essential Carver County infrastructure,” said Emmer. $2.24 million for New Germany’s Wastewater Treatment Facility was included in the House Interior, Environment and Related Agencies appropriations bill. Background Since 2021, the House Committee on Appropriations has considered Member requests for community project funding. During the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years, Emmer has helped deliver $40 million in federal funding for infrastructure projects in Carver County. Read more about Emmer’s past and current community funding requests here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-house-progress-on-wright-county-infrastructure-projects,Emmer Applauds House Progress on Wright County Infrastructure Projects,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WRIGHT COUNTY, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that funding for two Wright County infrastructure projects passed the House of Representatives as part of the appropriations process for fiscal year 2024. “This funding will ensure that safe, clean water is available in Wright County for years to come. We will continue our effort to bring taxpayer dollars home to Minnesota,” said Emmer. Included in the House bill for the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies was $2.24 million in funding for St. Michael’s Wastewater Treatment Plan project and $1.52 million for Otsego’s improvements to its Drinking Water Treatment Facility. Background Since 2021, the House Committee on Appropriations has considered Member requests for community project funding. During the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years, Emmer helped deliver $13,385,000 in federal funding for infrastructure projects in Wright County. Read more about Emmer’s past and current community funding requests here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-leads-bipartisan-fact-finding-mission-into-crypto-terrorist-fundraising,Emmer Leads Bipartisan Fact-Finding Mission into Crypto Terrorist Fundraising,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06), Chairman Patrick McHenry (NC-10), Digital Asset Subcommittee Chairman French Hill (AR-02) and Congressman Ritchie Torres (NY-15) led 58 of their colleagues on a bipartisan letter to President Biden and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to inquire into the size, scope, and duration of Hamas’s crypto fundraising efforts. This letter embarks on a fact-finding mission intended to gather information that can inform congressional actions. “Open, transparent blockchain technology should easily provide an open book of Hamas’s terror financing with digital assets, as compared to traditional, more opaque, methods of financing. We request the White House and the Treasury to utilize the open blockchain ledger to assess the footprint of Hamas’s digital asset fundraising campaign. In doing this, Congress can better understand the United States’ available tools and capabilities to target bad actors on blockchain and support legitimate digital asset use and innovation,” Emmer said. “It’s critical for Congress to understand the true extent of the use of digital assets for illicit purposes. In light of conflicting reports regarding Hamas’ fundraising efforts through digital assets, we are commencing a bipartisan fact-finding mission. It’s important to note that digital assets are built on transparent and open distributed ledger technology—making it far easier to detect and track illicit activity. It’s essential that we hold bad actors in the digital asset ecosystem accountable in order for legitimate players to thrive. I thank my colleagues, Whip Emmer, Congressman Torres, and Subcommittee Chairman Hill for their partnership on this issue,” Chairman McHenry said. “Terrorism financing is unacceptable no matter what form it takes, whether that’s cash or crypto. Congress must better understand how groups like Hamas use digital assets to fund their operations and cut off all avenues for this illicit activity, but also recognize that bad actors are the problem—not crypto. I thank my colleagues, Chairman McHenry, Whip Emmer, and Congressman Torres for our continued collaboration on this critical issue,” said Rep. Hill. Background: The United States government routinely sanctions and seizes cryptocurrency used for illicit purposes. Last year, Congressman Emmer led a bipartisan letter to the Federal Reserve inquiring into the United States stockpile of digital assets and the mechanisms through which the government holds and transfers those assets. The Members requested a response to the letter no later than November 29. The full letter can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-gop-delegation-continue-to-demand-accountability-for-feeding-our-future-fraud,"Emmer, Minnesota GOP Delegation Continue to Demand Accountability for Feeding our Future Fraud",2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined every Republican member of the Minnesota delegation on a letter to the Minnesota Department of Education regarding its involvement in and oversight of what is being called the “largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation.” The letter, led by Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05), was co-signed by Oversight and Accountability Committee Chairman James Comer (KY-01) and Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-05.) Emmer said, “Due to a lack of transparency from the State of Minnesota and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, we are no closer to understanding how $250 million of taxpayer funds were stolen from children and families in need. Minnesotans deserve answers. We will continue to do our work to hold those responsible to account and prevent this from occurring again.” “USDA and its state partner, Minnesota Department of Education, are directly responsible for the mismanagement of child nutrition programs that led to the largest COVID-related fraud in the country,” said Rep. Finstad (MN-01). “It is critical that we have all the information necessary from MDE to understand the extent to which these programs were exploited by bad actors at the expense of hungry kids and families. My colleagues and I remain committed to demanding transparency at every level of government to get the answers we need in order to safeguard these food programs and hold accountable those responsible for allowing this fraud to occur.” “Feeding Our Future’s alleged fraud has been described as the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “Taxpayers deserve to know how $250 million could be stolen from those in need with no one the wiser. My colleagues and I are determined to prevent anything like this from happening again. I look forward to a swift response so our work can continue.” “It is shocking that the Minnesota Department of Education along with the Department of Agriculture’s Food Nutrition Service failed to prevent what has been described as the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the nation,” said Rep. Stauber (MN-08). “This scandal raises many questions, and I believe Minnesotans deserve answers. We need to know exactly how such a large amount of taxpayer money was allowed to be stolen at the expense of some of our state’s most vulnerable. That’s why I am proud to sign onto to this letter demanding the Minnesota Department of Education provide the necessary documents so our House Committees can properly conduct a much-needed investigation into this shameful scandal.” The letter is the third in a series of congressional inquiries since the fraud came to light. In September 2022, the same members asked Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack for documents related to Feeding our Future and were met with an inadequate response. In July, Emmer joined a follow-up letter to the USDA, which has yet to receive a response. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-leads-legislation-restore-alaskan-energy-production-north-slope,Stauber Leads Legislation to Restore Alaskan Energy Production on the North Slope,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Chairman of the House Natural Resources Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, led his House colleagues Mary Peltola (AK at-large), Kevin Hern (OK-01), and August Pfluger (TX-11) in introducing the bipartisan Alaska’s Right to Produce Act of 2023. This legislation will reverse the Biden Department of the Interior (DOI)’s decision to prohibit oil and gas development on 13 million acres within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A). It will also reinstate the lawfully awarded leases that the Biden DOI cancelled within the non-wilderness Coastal Plain of the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Of this legislation, Congressman Pete Stauber stated, “Alaska has been blessed with vast deposits of oil and natural gas that can unleash economic prosperity, which is why the responsible development of these resources is widely supported by inhabitants of the state, Alaska Native communities, and their entire Congressional delegation. Biden’s decision to take these resources offline not only ignores the needs of Alaskans, particularly the Alaska Natives that live and work on the North Slope, it also ignores our nation’s energy and security needs. It makes no sense to deny Alaskans the right to safely produce these resources and instead continue our dependence on hostile foreign nations, so I am proud to lead the introduction of this legislation to help restore oil and gas leasing and production on the North Slope. As the Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, I will continue to fight until our friends in Alaska, and the entire nation, can benefit from this abundance of natural resources.” Congresswoman Mary Peltola stated, “I am deeply frustrated by the Administration’s recent actions restricting energy development on Alaska’s North Slope, including the National Petroleum Reserve. These actions are strongly opposed by the Inupiat North Slope communities of the region. I will continue to advocate for them and for Alaska's ability to explore and develop our natural resources, from the critical minerals we need for our clean energy transition to the domestic oil and gas we need to get us there. This bill is an important step in protecting Alaska’s leasing ability, including limiting the ability of courts to continuously reset the process. I will continue to advocate for permitting reform to make sure we have predictable timelines and a stable jurisdiction for developing our resources.” Republican Study Committee Chairman Kevin Hern stated, “President Biden has been determined to destroy domestic energy production since Day One of his presidency, and Americans feel the painful effects of his policies every day. Energy security is national security, and our economy and security are stronger when we develop the resources we have at home. This legislation reverses the Biden Administration’s illegal actions in the Coastal Plain and will help us get back to a position of strength.” House Energy Action Team (HEAT) Chairman August Pfluger stated, “Energy security is national security. President Biden’s decision to block American energy producers from utilizing nearly 40% of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a continuation of his war on fossil fuels. Not only will this decision destroy the livelihoods of thousands of energy workers, but it will drive up costs for all Americans. I’m proud to work with Congressman Stauber on this legislation to restore drilling in Alaska’s North Slope and recognize the national security importance of affordable, reliable, American-made energy.” House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman stated, “At every turn, the Biden administration has waged war on domestic energy production and punished struggling American families who can hardly afford to keep the lights on and fill up their tanks. Earlier this year, Biden made the reckless decision to cancel Congressionally mandated energy production in Alaska while simultaneously locking up millions of acres in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, actions that directly put our national security at risk. These sweeping decisions were made without input from local and indigenous communities who widely support and rely on the responsible development of these resources. Today, Congressman Stauber is introducing much needed legislation to overturn these disastrous decisions and support the responsible development of our domestic energy resources and American jobs rather than relying on foreign production from our adversaries. He has been a champion for these issues as chairman of our Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, and I thank him for his hard work defending American workers and American resources.” Background: Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), former President Trump established an oil and gas leasing program in ANWR. The TCJA restricted energy development in the Coastal Plain of ANWR to 2,000 acres and production could result in the development of 10.4 billion barrels of oil.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-demands-investigation-after-massachusetts-couple-were-denied-license,Stauber Demands Investigation After Massachusetts Couple Were Denied License to Become Foster Parents Due to their Catholic Faith,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR) requesting that they investigate a case of discrimination against Kitty and Mike Burke of Massachusetts, who were denied a license to become foster parents due to their Catholic faith. Despite their suitability and commitment, the Burkes had their application denied by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) over concerns they would not be affirming to a child who identified as LGBTQIA. This decision was based off their religious convictions and objection to certain medical procedures for minors. This was a violation of their right to religious freedom under the First Amendment and the Massachusetts Foster Parents Bill of Rights. Of this decision, Congressman Pete Stauber stated, “There are countless children across the United States who are in desperate need of loving families, and there are simply not enough foster families equipped to meet this need. That’s why it is simply outrageous that this loving and qualified couple was blocked from fostering a child by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families due to their religious beliefs. Not only is this blatant discrimination, but it puts gender activism and trans ideology above the needs and well-being of at-risk children. As a devout Catholic and adoptive parent, I urge the OCR conduct a thorough investigation into this matter and ensure the necessary steps are taken to rectify this injustice.” Along with Senators Mike Braun (R-IN) and Marco Rubio (R-FL), Representatives Ryan Zinke (MT-01), Mary Miller (IL-15), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Randy Weber (TX-14), Don Bacon (NE-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Mike Kelly (PA-16), John Rose (TN-06), Jeff Duncan (SC-03), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Mike Bost (IL-12), James Baird (IN-04), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Jim Banks (IN-03), and Andy Biggs (AZ-05) have signed onto this letter. Read Stauber’s full letter here. The Burkes are more than qualified to become foster parents. They underwent a rigorous application process during which they were repeatedly acknowledged as strong candidates for adoption. They expressed their willingness to care for children with medical, mental health, and behavioral needs and were ready to welcome multiple children into their home to keep sibling groups together, reducing potential trauma.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/house-passes-israel-security-supplemental,House Passes Israel Security Supplemental,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, the House passed H.R. 6126, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024, offsetting $14.3 billion from a proposed IRS expansion to provide critical support to our allies in Israel. ""This emergency supplemental package is critical to supporting Israel as they defend themselves against terrorism. It would reinforce the Iron Dome defense systems, replenish Israel's domestic defense stockpiles, and protect U.S. citizens,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""Furthermore, the bill respects taxpayer dollars, as it is offset by rescinding funding for the IRS that would increase their ability to audit working class families. I commend my colleagues for putting forward thoughtful legislation. I urge the Senate and the President to work quickly to pass this bill into law and support our allies.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-celebrates-minnesota-victories-interior-appropriations-legislation,Stauber Celebrates Minnesota Victories in Interior Appropriations Legislation,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) joined the majority of his House colleagues in passing H.R. 4821, the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY2024, which contains many legislative wins for Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District. Of this legislation’s passage, Congressman Stauber stated, “Since President Biden took office, he has implemented policies that are anti-mining, anti-American energy production, and anti-farmer. This year’s Interior Appropriations bill would help stop Biden’s harmful agenda in its tracks. I am especially excited that it contains a number of wins for northeast Minnesota, including a provision to roll back the Department of Interior’s harmful mineral withdrawal in the Duluth Complex. I now urge my Senate colleagues – particularly Minnesota’s Senators – to take this legislation up immediately because we can't afford any more of Biden's 'anywhere but America, any worker but American' mining and energy policies."" Here are the top provisions included in this appropriations package that would benefit Minnesota’s Eighth District: Reinstate mineral leases in northeast Minnesota. Block the Secretary of the Interior’s mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest. Repeal the recent Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, which has been harmful to Minnesota’s farmers, landowners, and small businesses. Require the Secretary of the Interior to reissue the final rule removing the gray wolf from the list of threatened and endangered wildlife. Reverse the Environmental Protection Agency’s abuse of the Endangered Species Act by delisting the Northern Long-Eared Bat. This unnecessary listing has stifled responsible logging and forest management in Minnesota’s Eighth District. Fund critical infrastructure projects in Bemidji, Braham, and Silver Bay. Stauber also had two amendments added to this legislation that would prevent the Biden Administration from making the broken NEPA system even worse. NEPA is currently filled with duplicative red-tape and is all too often weaponized by litigious groups, making it near impossible for important projects to move forward.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-votes-yes-israel-emergency-supplemental-package,Stauber Votes Yes on Israel Emergency Supplemental Package,2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after voting for the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, a $14.3 billion emergency supplemental package to ensure Israel has the resources necessary to defend itself against terrorism. “Israel is our greatest ally and the only democracy in the Middle East, so the United States must stand with them as they defend themselves from the barbaric war launched by Hamas. This means providing them with the resources necessary to completely eradicate these terrorists. I know some Americans are worried about the costs associated with supporting Israel, which is why I applaud Speaker Johnson’s plan to pay for this package by taking funds away from Biden's army of IRS agents. Our new Speaker is off to a great start.” The Israel Supplemental Appropriations Act would be paid for by making cuts to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, specifically Section 10301, which appropriated billions in funding to hire 87,000 new IRS agents. This legislation would specifically do the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/11/rep-michelle-fischbach-receives-friend-of-farm-credit-award,Rep. Michelle Fischbach Receives Friend of Farm Credit Award,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Tri-County News: Serving Eden Valley, Kimball, Watkins, and surrounding communities The AgriBank District Farm Credit Council (ADFCC) has recognized U.S. Rep. Michelle -Fischbach (MN-07) with its 2023 Friend of Farm Credit Award. Fischbach, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and former member of the House Agriculture Committee, received the award for her critical leadership to preserve and support the well-being of agriculture and rural communities across the country. “I have long admired and supported the work of the Farm Credit System, and I am honored to receive the 2023 Friend of Farm Credit Award,” said Rep. Fischbach. “I have long been committed to building strong rural communities, and I know that Farm Credit institutions play a critical role in that objective. That’s why I was proud to introduce the Investing In Rural America Act, which eliminates unnecessary regulatory barriers to capital investment, particularly for critical community facilities like hospitals, childcare centers, and senior care centers. This will attract private sector investment into these kinds of facilities, encouraging future generations to see rural communities as home. I am grateful for the Farm Credit Council’s hard work and look forward to continuing to work side by side with them to better rural America.” “The strong support Representative Fischbach has demonstrated for the Farm Credit mission and investments that support healthy rural communities, particularly as a lead sponsor of the Investing in Rural America Act, makes her a standout amongst her peers,” said Ed Hegland, a farmer from Lac Qui Parle County, Minn., and an AgCountry Farm Credit Services board representative on the ADFCC, which he chairs. “We are honored to celebrate her as an AgriBank District Farm Credit Council Friend of Farm Credit and a friend of rural America.” AgCountry Farm Credit Services is one of the local Farm Credit Associations that comprise the AgriBank District along with AgriBank. The ADFCC represents Farm Credit farmers and ranchers in a 15-state area from Wyoming to Ohio, and Minnesota to Arkansas. About half the nation’s cropland is located within the Agri Bank District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-calls-smith-and-klobuchar-support-mining-minnesota-after-they,Stauber Calls on Smith and Klobuchar to Support Mining in Minnesota After They Expressed Concerns Regarding Minerals Trade Deal with Indonesia,2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, is calling on Minnesota’s Senators to support critical mineral mining projects in his district after they sent a bipartisan letter, expressing several concerns regarding a potential mineral trade agreement with Indonesia. This letter, which was led by Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), was sent following reports that the Biden Administration is in negotiations with Indonesia on a limited free trade agreement for critical minerals, mainly nickel. In the letter, the Senators outline concerns with Indonesia’s weak labor protections, Chinese influence in Indonesian mining, and Indonesia’s lack of environmental standards. They also emphasize the need to prioritize domestic producers. Of this letter, Stauber stated, “Since taking office, President Biden has chosen to rely on foreign countries with poor labor and environmental standards for the critical minerals necessary for his green energy push. These reported negotiations with Indonesia are just the latest example of Biden’s ‘anywhere but America, any worker but American’ mining policy. I am glad to see Minnesota Senators Klobuchar and Smith finally push back on this blatant hypocrisy. Now, I encourage them to go one step further and call on this Administration to allow critical mineral projects within the Duluth Complex to move forward, just as I have for years. Minnesota’s miners are ready and eager to responsibly source the copper and nickel located in the Duluth Complex, and all of Minnesota’s leaders should be unified in support of this worthy goal.” Senator Kevin Cramer stated, “Developing the United States’ natural resources with the highest labor standards and best environmental stewardship should not be a partisan issue. Rather than adopting the Biden philosophy of exporting our environmental guilt to polluting countries, we should be prioritizing American workers and miners who do it best. Minnesota and North Dakota have a great deal to offer our critical supply chains.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/congresswoman-fischbach-proudly-stands-with-israel,Congresswoman Fischbach Proudly Stands with Israel,2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - This week, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 771 - Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists. ""Israel is facing the worst attacks on its people since the Holocaust, and the United States stands in nationwide support as they defend themselves from true evil,"" said Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-07). ""I am proud that the first action taken by Speaker Johnson was an overwhelmingly bipartisan resolution to demonstrate America's support for Israel and its people.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-welcomes-rep-mike-johnson-as-speaker-of-the-house,Rep. Fischbach Welcomes Rep. Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, the House of Representatives elected Congressman Mike Johnson (LA-04) to be the next Speaker of the House of Representatives. ""Mr. Johnson is a proven conservative. I was honored to work with him on the Judiciary Committee, and I am confident that, as Speaker, he will move forward with an agenda that reflects the values and priorities of the American people,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""We have a lot to accomplish, and I trust that Mr. Johnson will lead Congress from a position of strength as we continue to fight for the values of American families and against the Left's spending spree and extreme 'woke' priorities.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-on-iran-backed-terrorists-attack-on-israel,Rep. Fischbach on Iran-Backed Terrorists Attack on Israel,2023-10-07,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Hamas terrorists have claimed responsibility for a surprise attack on Israel. Israel has responded with counterstrikes. Israeli President Netanyahu says Israel is now at war. The attack took place on the 50th anniversary of the 1973 war, which began with a surprise attack on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur. ""This attack on Israel is shocking and horrifying, and I pray for and grieve with the families who have lost their loved ones,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""The United States condemns this heinous attack and firmly stands with one of our strongest allies as they do everything in their power to defend themselves against these Iran-backed terrorists.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-pens-letter-mayorkas-after-young-girls-were-sexually-assaulted-bemidji,Stauber Pens Letter to Mayorkas After Young Girls Were Sexually Assaulted in a Bemidji House Full of Illegal Immigrants,2023-10-05,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHGINTON, D.C. -- Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent a letter to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and other Homeland Security officials expressing outrage over the recent sexual assault of one eleven-year-old girl, and potentially two more, in a home in Bemidji, Minnesota. When police conducted a search warrant of the home, 11 illegal immigrants were found at the scene. The letter reads in part, “I write to express my concern and outrage over the recent events in Bemidji, Minnesota, a beautiful northern town in the congressional district I represent. The news stories and police report highlight the deplorable consequences of the Biden Administration's recklessly lax border and failing immigration policies. Nearly a dozen illegal immigrants were found at a home where, according to the local police department press release, a sexual assault of a minor occurred. I demand immediate action from your agencies and answers to several questions myself and the communities I represent have regarding this horrific incident. It is your duty to fully protect all citizens from this ongoing onslaught of illegal immigrant criminal activity, which is a direct result of your failure to secure our border and fully track illegal immigrants and their whereabouts. “The unspeakable violence in Bemidji perpetrated against at least 1 eleven-year-old girl, and potentially two more, demonstrates your complete and total failure to follow the laws of this country. As a result, these failures are impacting little children, over a thousand miles from the southern border, and will have real, long-lasting, ramifications. The victim(s) in this case deserves justice. More importantly, however, the victim(s) deserved your protection from the beginning. You were appointed to serve the people of this sovereign nation, and it is your duty to ensure our border is secure and innocent lives are safeguarded.” Click HERE to read the full letter. Stauber demanded Mayorkas answer a number of questions regarding the status of the 11 illegal immigrants who were found at the scene of this horrendous crime. The questions include the following: How did the 11 illegal immigrants travel to Bemidji? Were they specifically relocated to Bemidji as a directive of this Administration? Who paid for their transportation? When are the court dates for the 11 illegal immigrants if they are seeking asylum? Are any of these 11 illegal immigrants being charged with rape/sexual assault of a minor(s)? Where are the 11 illegal immigrants being detained in until their court cases? How many court cases do they have pending? Is the primary suspect, Oscar Ernesto Luna, an American citizen? Are you aware if Oscar Ernesto Luna or any of the 11 illegal immigrants are connected to a cartel? Were any minors traveling with these 11 illegal immigrants when they crossed the border? If so, where are they now? What are your agencies doing to locate the other victims that have reportedly gone missing? What coordination is occurring with other law enforcement agencies to investigate and address incidents like the one in Bemidji, Minnesota, and to prevent such incidents from happening in the future?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-on-vacating-the-speaker-s-chair,Rep. Fischbach On Vacating the Speaker's Chair,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Democrats and a handful of Republicans voted to vacate the Speaker of the House's chair. ""In the last nine months, Speaker McCarthy stood up to Democrats and forced President Biden to agree to the largest federal spending cuts in a decade. He ended the Omnibus Bill process, and now Congress is working on 12 separate appropriations bills, as it should. And, he opened an impeachment inquiry against President Biden,"" said Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""I am truly disappointed that all of that work is going to be halted until another Speaker is elected.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-opposes-motion-vacate,Stauber Opposes Motion to Vacate,2023-10-03,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement after voting against a disastrous resolution to remove Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the House. “This is a sad day for America. Speaker McCarthy and House Republicans have consistently delivered strong results for the American people, who are hurting thanks to the policies of the Biden Administration. Under his conservative and steadfast leadership, House Republicans have passed bills to cut $2 trillion in spending, reduce energy costs, enact commonsense work requirements, restore order at the southern border, and much more. “Speaker Kevin McCarthy had my full support in January, and he had my full support today. “Make no mistake, Matt Gaetz worked with socialist Democrats to remove a Republican Speaker. Thanks to his actions, the important work of the House of Representatives is now stalled, and we are unable to hold Joe Biden and his failing Administration accountable. “To quote former Speaker of the House Joseph G. Cannon in 1910, ‘government is not the whim of a handful of men who don’t know what they want—and when they get it, want something else.’ “Matt Gaetz and a handful of other selfish Republicans have no interest in governing. They care more about fundraising and making a name for themselves than getting the hard work done for the American people. “I will continue to stand with the vast majority of our House Republican Conference as we push back against the chaos created by Matt Gaetz and his Democrat allies.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/10/rep-fischbach-on-passage-of-continuing-resolution,Rep. Fischbach on Passage of Continuing Resolution,2023-10-01,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Saturday, Congress passed H.R. 5860, the Continuing Appropriations Act, extending government funding for 45 days. ""House Republicans have been working tirelessly to reverse the out-of-control spending in Washington and fund the government responsibly,"" said Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""At the same time, it would be irresponsible to shut down the government, which would affect every corner of the country. Earlier in the week, the Spending Reduction and Border Security Act was put forward, which would have kept the government open while cutting wasteful spending and securing the border, but every Democrat and a handful of Republicans joined together to kill that bill. While that vote would have worked towards achieving conservative values, yesterday's resolution avoids shutting down government services that matter to Minnesota's 7th District. I support the work done by House Republicans to keep the government functioning, and I look forward to continuing our hard work in the appropriations process to get this country's fiscal house in order.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/9/rep-fischbach-introduces-the-protecting-rural-seniors-access-to-care-act,Rep. Fischbach Introduces the Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Care Act,2023-09-29,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Care Act. ""I am deeply disappointed CMS continued to move forward with this rule given the public knows their reservations regarding its efficacy. If the one-size-fits-all staffing ratios issued by CMS are put in place, it will devastate facilities across greater Minnesota, forcing them to either decrease the number of patients they serve even further, or close their doors entirely,"" said Rep. Fischbach. ""The Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Care Act will keep CMS from implementing this rule until it can prove it will not result in the closure of skilled nursing facilities, will not harm patient access, and will not make workforce shortage issues worse in areas that are already struggling. I am proud to introduce this legislation and will continue to fight for the strength of our rural communities."" “At a time when nursing homes are already experiencing significant staffing shortages and financial hardships, it is frustrating to see the Biden White House encouraging the HHS to establish minimum staffing requirements and standards for nursing homes,” said Congressman Pence. “If implemented, this will result in limited access to care for seniors, mandatory increases in state Medicaid budgets, and could lead to nursing home closures, which would have an especially negative impact in rural communities, like many of the ones I represent in Indiana, that already experience health care access challenges. I am proud to co-lead the Protecting Rural Seniors Access to Healthcare Act to stop this proposed rule from being implemented, and I want to thank Congresswoman Fischbach for her work on this.” This bill has the support of the Minnesota Hospital Association, stating, ""Ensuring every Minnesotan has access to quality care in their own communities is a top priority for Minnesota’s hospitals and health systems. That's why the Minnesota Hospital Association expresses deep gratitude to Congresswoman Fischbach for introducing the 'Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act.' This legislation aligns precisely with what patients need most: timely, high-quality care delivered close to home. This bill will help to mitigate the risk of unintended negative consequences that would arise from rigid, one-size-fits-all mandates—especially amid a historic workforce crisis and in rural areas where resources are notably limited. We applaud Congresswoman Fischbach's dedication to preserving essential health services for all Minnesotans and look forward to ongoing collaboration to protect care and access statewide.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-sec-chair-gensler-is-not-an-impartial-regulator,Emmer: SEC Chair Gensler is “not an impartial regulator”,2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) questioned Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Gary Gensler regarding the SEC’s regulation-by-harassment at the expense of innovation, competition and everyday Americans. Watch: Whip Emmer questions Chair Gensler A transcript of Whip Emmer’s questioning can be found below. Transcript: Emmer: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Chair Gensler, I have a series of questions that require a “Yes” or “No” answer. In the interest of my limited time, I would appreciate it if you would comply with that. Mr. Gensler, is it fair to say generally that large institutions in any given industry benefit more from regulatory uncertainty than everyday market participants or smaller institutions who don’t have the scale or the capital to fund expensive compliance teams? Gensler: Large institutions could benefit from uncertainty… Emmer: Reclaiming my time, the answer is yes, sir. Mr. Gensler, you had an 18-year career at Goldman Sachs where you were Partner and Co-Head of Finance, correct? Gensler: Yes, sir. Emmer: Thank you. And is it correct to say that you made most of your personal wealth directly through your employment at this bank, Goldman Sachs? Gensler: I’ve done well since then too, sir. Emmer: I will take that as a yes as well. You describe the SEC under your leadership as the “cop on the beat watching out for [our] constituents,” correct? Gensler: I think that is a mandate that Congress has given us. Emmer: Again, I think you’ve said that. Reclaiming my time. The answer is yes, sir. If you could just comply with what I’ve asked I would appreciate it. But given your 18-year career at one of the biggest banks in the world and the personal financial fortune you amassed there, do you think it’s possible for you to serve as an impartial regulator and not favor large financial intermediaries? Gensler: Absolutely, sir. Emmer: Well, Mr. Gensler, do you believe the vast majority of digital assets meet the investment contract test and are therefore securities operating illegally outside of the U.S. regulatory umbrella? Gensler: As I’ve said many of these assets are basically the public is anticipating profits based on the efforts of others… Emmer: Sir, is that a yes? Is the answer then yes? Gensler: Again, without prejudging any one, I do think the significant majority… Emmer: Reclaiming my time, I will take that as a yes. And to be clear sir, this perspective has nothing to do with a concern you noted in a speech last year where you said, quote, “Over the past year, several bank executives have shared their concerns with me about the sheer number of depositors who have moved money from their bank accounts into crypto-related exchanges and wallets,” end quote, right? Gensler: The concern that those bank executives raised was that… Emmer: Again, I am reclaiming my time, sir. No. I have asked you to answer the questions as short as you can so I can use the time that I have, and it’s clear that you would like to avoid answering the questions, in my opinion. An Obama appointed judge in the Southern District of New York, a bank friendly jurisdiction where you bring most of your cases, recently found that decentralized financial technology, quote, “not only removes the so-called middlemen from these transactions, but it also allows users to interact […] through a variety of methods in an easy and efficient manner.” End quote. The court also said “underwriters,” like the ones at banks where you worked sir, are, quote, “precisely the types of individual roles that decentralized exchanges were designed to eliminate,” end quote. Mr. Gensler, can you assure this Committee that your style of regulation by harassment toward digital asset innovation is to the benefit of every American and not driven by your desires to protect industry incumbents? Gensler: This is a field that is rife with fraud and manipulation, and I am looking out for the American investors who have been hurt… Emmer: I will reclaim my time. Mr. Gensler, despite your years of rhetoric, like today, I’m convinced you are not an impartial regulator. Instead, it’s clear that you are working to consolidate your own power even though it means crushing opportunities for everyday Americans and frankly the financial future of this country. Even the federal courts are highlighting the damage, you sir, are doing to our constituents and they’re telling you that you don’t have the legal authority to accomplish your goal of squashing competition in the financial markets. Congress has been telling you that too. Now Mr. Gensler, I believe our great financial system is the definition of freedom in this country and congressional policies must provide room for the traditional financial system to evolve alongside the disruptive digital asset ecosystem. That said, it cannot be understated that a common theme throughout your career sir is your relentless loyalty to the largest financial institutions at the clear expense of innovation, competition, and everyday Americans. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/9/rep-fischbach-introduces-hardworking-seniors-act,Rep. Fischbach Introduces Hardworking Seniors Act,2023-09-27,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Yesterday, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Hardworking Seniors Act. ""Across the country, hard working seniors have been unable to contribute to their health savings account (HSA), because they have begun receiving Medicare,"" said Rep. Fischbach. ""Seniors across Minnesota's 7th District have reached out for my help, and I am proud to introduce the Hardworking Seniors Act, straightforward legislation that helps America's working seniors who are enrolled in Medicare Part A to continue making contributions to the HSA provided by their employer's plan. I will continue to listen to the needs of my constituents and work on the complex issues in support of seniors' rights.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-s-cbdc-anti-surveillance-state-act-passes-financial-services-committee,Emmer’s CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act Passes Financial Services Committee,2023-09-20,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Financial Services Committee considered Majority Whip Emmer’s (MN-06) CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act. The bill was passed out of the Committee and reported favorably to the House floor during the markup session, an important step toward passing this legislation through Congress. Transcript of Remarks: Thank you, Chairman McHenry. I’m extremely proud to have this legislation, that frankly, I have been working on for three years at least, the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act, included in your markup today. It’s the first anti-central bank digital currency legislative effort introduced in the United States and for the past two Congresses, we’ve worked with my colleagues and with stakeholder groups to update, improve, and grow support for this bill. Today, this bill has the support of 60 Members of Congress and groups ranging from the Independent Community Bankers Association and American Bankers Association to Club for Growth, Heritage Action, and the Blockchain Association. We’ve come a long way. This bill is simple: It halts the efforts of this Administrative State under President Biden from issuing a financial surveillance tool that will undermine the American way of life. Unlike decentralized cryptocurrencies, a central bank digital currency is a digital form of sovereign currency that is designed and issued by a government and transacts on a digital ledger that is controlled by that government. In short, a central bank digital currency is government-controlled programmable money that, if not designed to emulate cash, could give the federal government the ability to surveil and restrict Americans' transactions. This is not just alarming – it’s downright un-American. We’ve already seen examples of governments weaponizing their financial system against their citizens. In China, the Communist Party is using a central bank digital currency to track the spending habits of its citizens. The data is being used to create a social credit system that rewards or punishes people based on their behavior. Closer to home in the Western Hemisphere, in Canada, the Trudeau Administration froze the bank accounts of individuals involved in the 2022 trucker protests. That might work in Canada, that doesn’t work here. This appetite for financial surveillance may be gaining a stronghold, unfortunately, right here at home. The White House issued an Executive Order placing urgency on central bank digital currency research and development, and the agency reports to that executive order have made it clear that the Biden Administration is not only itching to create a CBDC, but they are willing to trade American’s right to financial privacy for a surveillance-style central bank digital currency. We’re not going to let this happen. My bill ensures the United States digital currency policy is in the hands of the American people – not the Administrative State – so that it reflects our American values of privacy, individual sovereignty, and free market competitiveness. American values. American values. This is what the future global digital economy needs. If not open, permissionless, and private – just like cash – a central bank digital currency is nothing more than a CCP-style surveillance tool that can be weaponized to oppress the American way of life. If China embraces it, you know it’s something worth standing against in this country. I’d like to welcome all of my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to support this bill, which protects innovation and defends against an ever-expanding government surveillance state. Thank you again, Chairman McHenry and Congressman Hill for working with me on this legislation. And I yield back the balance of my time. Background: Since the 117th Congress, Whip Emmer has been leading the fight against any Federal Reserve-issued central bank digital currency (CBDC). The CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act prevents the Federal Reserve from issuing a CBDC directly to individuals, ensuring the Fed cannot mobilize into a retail bank able to collect personal financial information on Americans. It prohibits the Federal Reserve from indirectly issuing a CBDC to individuals through an intermediary, preventing the Federal Reserve from launching a retail CBDC via our two-tier financial system. Furthermore, the legislation makes it clear that the Federal Reserve and the U.S. Treasury lack the authority to issue a CBDC without Congressional authorization. The legislation prohibits the Federal Reserve from using any CBDC to implement monetary policy, ensuring the Federal Reserve cannot use a CBDC as a tool to control the American economy. Finally, the legislation aims to protect innovation and the development of any future digital cash that maintains the privacy protections of cash. The bill is now co-sponsored by 60 of Whip Emmer’s Republican colleagues, including Members of the Financial Services Committee, Representatives French Hill (AR-02), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Pete Sessions (TX-32), Young Kim (CA-40), William Timmons (SC-04), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Mike Flood (NE-01), Bill Posey (FL-08), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Erin Houchin (IN-09), Andy Barr (KY-06), Roger Williams (TX-25), Ann Wagner (MO-02) and Bill Huizenga (MI-04). You can read the bill in its entirety, here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-grills-secretary-buttigieg-over-administrations-unrealistic-and,Stauber Grills Secretary Buttigieg Over Administration’s Unrealistic and Hypocritical EV Push,2023-09-20,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during a Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Hearing on “the Oversight of the Department of Transportation’s Policies and Programs,” Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) had the chance to question Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on this Administration’s unrealistic push for a transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs). Stauber’s question topics covered the technology’s unreliability in cold weather, the monetary impact on Minnesota’s families, and the Administration’s refusal to source the minerals necessary for EVs domestically. Image Watch his full line of questioning here. Following the hearing, Stauber stated, “President Biden and his Transportation Secretary have been failing the American people, and their unrealistic push for a transition to EVs is one major example of that. They cannot continue their efforts to hinder mobility, limit consumer choice, and make vehicles more expensive for American families. Hardworking Americans like those living in Minnesota’s Eighth District have already experienced years of runaway inflation and high energy costs, and this Administration’s efforts will only further increase their financial burden. Stauber continued, stating, “Additionally, it is hypocritical for this Administration to push EVs while blocking the domestic production of the critical minerals necessary for this technology. Instead, they choose to rely on Chinese-run mines in countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where child slave laborers dig these minerals out of the ground with their bare hands. If this Administration were actually serious about creating a cleaner energy future, then they wouldn’t constantly be blocking Minnesota’s miners from developing these resources under the best labor and environmental standards in the world.” Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-leads-delegation-letter-support-duluth-international-airport-air,Stauber Leads Delegation Letter in Support for Duluth International Airport Air Traffic Control Tower Upgrade,2023-09-18,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Minnesota - Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) recently led the Minnesota delegation in sending a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requesting that they expedite reviews and approvals required for Duluth International Airport (DLH) to apply for grant funding to build a new air traffic control tower. “The Duluth International Airport is an important economic driver for our Arrowhead communities as it connects the Northland to the rest of the world,” said Stauber. “Unfortunately, the airport’s air traffic control tower is outdated and deteriorating, putting commercial, cargo and medical flight operations at risk. I’m proud to lead this request to the FAA so the airport can quickly submit a successful application because this much-needed improvement will help our region prosper.” Duluth International Airport’s existing air traffic control tower is the 3rd oldest in the country and fails to meet certain FAA standards. According to data from the airport, DLH supports 6,230 jobs and over $760 million in annual economic activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-celebrates-announcement-of-c-130js-for-the-minnesota-air-national-guard,Emmer Celebrates Announcement of C-130Js for the Minnesota Air National Guard,2023-09-14,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) issued a statement celebrating the announcement that the 133rd Airlift Wing of the Minnesota Air National Guard will be receiving 8 new C-130J transport planes. “We are entering a new era for the 133rd Airlift Wing. There is no better home for the C-130J than right here in Minnesota. For years, we’ve worked with the congressional delegation and the Minnesota National Guard to secure these planes and I’m thrilled to have played a part in this effort. Thanks to the dedication and bravery of the Minnesota National Guard’s men and women, our state and the United States are safer. We thank the U.S. National Guard and Air Force leadership for their continued support of the 133rd Airlift Wing,” Congressman Emmer said. Background: Congressman Emmer has been a longtime advocate for the 133rd Airlift Wing’s C-130 mission, some of his efforts included: In August, Congressman Emmer spoke directly with U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall in support of the Minnesota National Guard 133rd Airlift Wing’s C-130 mission and to advocate to bring the C-130J transport planes to Minnesota. In June, Congressman Emmer joined the entire Minnesota delegation in a letter advocating for the 133rd Airlift Wing to receive the new C-130J transport planes. In February, Congressman Emmer toured and spoke with leadership at the 133rd Airlift Wing at the Minneapolis-St Paul Joint Air Reserve Station. In August of 2021, Congressman Emmer led a letter to Secretary Kendall, with the entire Minnesota delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives, expressing support for the C-130 mission at the Minnesota Air National Guard’s 133rd Airlift Wing. In October 2020, Congressman Emmer sent a letter to Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett, signed by the entire Minnesota Congressional delegation, urging the Administration to maintain the C-130J fleet. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:37:48Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-reintroduces-cbdc-anti-surveillance-state-act,Emmer Reintroduces CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act,2023-09-12,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) reintroduced his flagship legislation, the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act, to halt the efforts of unelected bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) that dismantles Americans’ right to financial privacy. He is joined by 50 original cosponsors. Unlike decentralized cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, a CBDC is a digital form of sovereign currency that is designed and issued by a government and transacts on a digital ledger that is controlled by that government. In short, a CBDC is government-controlled programmable money that, if not designed to emulate cash, could give the federal government the ability to surveil Americans' transactions and choke out politically unpopular activity. “The administration has made it clear: President Biden is willing to compromise the American people’s right to financial privacy for a surveillance-style CBDC. That’s why I’m reintroducing my landmark legislation to put a check on unelected bureaucrats and ensure the United States’ digital currency policy upholds our values of privacy, individual sovereignty, and free-market competitiveness,” Whip Emmer said. “If not designed to be open, permissionless, and private – emulating cash – a government-issued CBDC is nothing more than a CCP-style surveillance tool that would be used to undermine the American way of life,” Whip Emmer concluded. ""Thorough anti-CBDC legislation is critical for safeguarding Americans' financial privacy in the face of potential surveillance, control, and political intimidation. We commend Congressman Emmer’s sweeping bill to prohibit a CBDC issued both directly from the Fed to Americans and indirectly via banks or other intermediaries. All members of Congress should support this measure to protect individual liberty and prevent threats of government coercion through the financial sector."" – Ryan Walker, Acting Executive Director, Heritage Action “Two world visions for the future of digital currencies are in conflict: China and a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) where government creates digital assets and surveils, spies, monitors, and restricts consumer behavior versus an American free marketplace that enables private competition that protects consumer data, allows economic freedom, enables innovation, and encourages competition. Club for Growth is pleased to work with House Majority Whip Tom Emmer so America doesn’t go down the China road and the Federal Reserve never develops a CBDC. We fully support this new legislation which does just that.” – David McIntosh, President, Club for Growth Specifically, the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a CBDC directly to individuals, ensuring the Fed cannot mobilize itself into a retail bank able to collect personal financial data on Americans. It prohibits the Fed from indirectly issuing a CBDC to individuals through an intermediary, preventing the Fed from launching a retail CBDC through our two-tier financial system. Finally, it prohibits the Fed from using any CBDC to implement monetary policy, ensuring the Federal Reserve cannot use a CBDC as a tool to control the American economy. The legislation protects innovation and any future development of digital cash. Whip Emmer first introduced the leading Republican bill to address central bank digital currencies in January of 2022. The bill is now co-sponsored by 50 of Whip Emmer’s Republican colleagues, including Members of the Financial Services Committee, Representatives French Hill (AR-02), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Pete Sessions (TX-32), Young Kim (CA-40), William Timmons (SC-04), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Mike Flood (NE-01), Bill Posey (FL-08), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Andy Ogles (TN-05) and Ann Wagner (MO-02). Background Since the 117th Congress, Whip Emmer has been the leading voice against any Federal Reserve-issued central bank digital currency. The reintroduction of the CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act expands on Emmer’s previous work on the subject. You can read the bill in its entirety, here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/9/house-republicans-open-formal-impeachment-inquiry-into-president-biden,House Republicans Open Formal Impeachment Inquiry into President Biden,2023-09-12,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy announced that the House will open a formal impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. “Since Republicans took the majority, House Republicans have been committed to holding the federal government accountable,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “Thanks to the work of several committees, including the Ways and Means Committee, we have heard enough to be gravely concerned about the President's conduct. Opening a formal impeachment inquiry is the next logical step. The American people deserve to know all the facts.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-reacts-disappointing-decision-twin-metals-lawsuit,Stauber Reacts to Disappointing Decision on Twin Metals Lawsuit,2023-09-07,2023,2023-09,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement after a federal judge tossed the lawsuit Twin Metals filed last year against the Biden Administration over their decision to cancel the company's long-held mineral leases. “This disappointing news is a huge blow to Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District – where Twin Metals is poised to unleash the economic engine and put countless Minnesotans to work. This decision is just more proof that we need substantive permitting reform in this country. We simply cannot afford to have good mining projects caught up in endless litigation and extended delays. As we do nothing, adversarial nations like China are rapidly producing the critical minerals necessary for every aspect of our daily lives. Rather than continuing to rely on Communist China, I personally would rather see Minnesota’s miners produce these resources here at home under the strongest environmental and labor standards in the world."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:35:26Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/8/rep-fischbach-on-holding-mexico-accountable-and-enforcing-usmca,Rep. Fischbach on Holding Mexico Accountable and Enforcing USMCA,2023-08-21,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Katherine Tai announced that the U.S. will be establishing a United States - Mexico - Canada (USMCA) dispute settlement panel regarding Mexico's ban on American genetically modified corn. ""Once it became clear that Mexico was not acting in good faith and was not going to shift their policies surrounding U.S. genetically modified corn, I began calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools USTR has under the USMCA in order to hold Mexico accountable. I am glad to see it is finally happening,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""The USMCA is a strong agreement, but it will only work if the agreements within it are adhered to and respected. We need to ensure fair U.S. access to the Mexican market."" Congresswoman Fischbach raised this issue with Ambassador Tai directly at a Ways & Means hearing in March. You can see her clip here and watch the full hearing here. You can read the full letter Reps Michelle Fischbach and Adrian Smith sent to Ambassador Tai here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-to-host-constituent-town-hall-at-lexington-city-hall,Emmer to Host Constituent Town Hall at Lexington City Hall,2023-08-18,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Otsego, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that he will be hosting a third in-person constituent town hall at Lexington City Hall. Town halls are free and open to the people of Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District. Individuals needing additional assistance or special accommodation should contact the Office of Congressman Emmer at 763-241-6848 in advance. Date: August 21st Time: 6:30PM – 7:30PM Location: 9180 Lexington Ave NE, Circle Pines, MN 55014 Members of the media planning to attend the town hall must RSVP to Nick Sabin, nick.sabin@mail.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-emmer-opens-new-district-office-in-chaska,Congressman Emmer Opens New District Office in Chaska,2023-08-17,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Chaska, MN – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced the opening of a new constituent service office in Chaska, Minnesota. ""The opening of this new office in Chaska reflects our deep commitment to serving the people of Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District,” Emmer said. This new office in Chaska is Congressman Emmer’s second constituent service office in the Sixth Congressional District. The office will be open Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 5:00pm. Congressman Emmer’s Office in Otsego will remain open and active. Contact information for the Chaska office can be found below: 1107 Hazeltine Blvd, Suite 476, Chaska, Minnesota 55318 952-262-2999 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-to-host-constituent-town-hall-in-hamburg,Emmer to Host Constituent Town Hall in Hamburg,2023-08-14,2023,2023-08,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Otsego, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that he will be hosting a second in-person constituent town hall in Hamburg, Minnesota. “Following the successful conversation at our recent town hall in Big Lake, we are looking forward to hearing from our constituents in Carver County,” said Emmer. Town halls are free and open to the people of Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District. Individuals needing additional assistance or special accommodation should contact the Office of Congressman Emmer at 763-241-6848 in advance. Date: August 16th Time: 6:00PM – 7:00PM Location: 181 Broadway Ave, Hamburg, MN 55339 Members of the media planning to attend the town hall must RSVP to Nick Sabin, nick.sabin@mail.house.gov ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:30:18Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-announces-big-lake-town-hall,Emmer Announces Big Lake Town Hall,2023-07-31,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Otsego, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) announced that he will be hosting a constituent town hall in Big Lake, Minnesota. “Being transparent and accessible with our communities is a top priority. Town halls serve as an excellent platform to listen, learn and discuss issues important to Minnesotans,” said Emmer. Members of the media planning to attend the town hall must RSVP to Nick Sabin, nick.sabin@mail.house.gov Town halls are free and open to the people of Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District. Individuals needing additional assistance or special accommodation should contact the Office of Congressman Emmer at 763-241-6848 in advance. Date: August 7th Time: 6:00PM – 7:00PM Location: 790 Minnesota Ave, Big Lake, MN 55309 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-bill-to-support-digital-assets-passes-financial-services-committee,Emmer Bill to Support Digital Assets Passes Financial Services Committee,2023-07-27,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Last night, the House Financial Services Committee considered Majority Whip Emmer’s (MN-06) bipartisan bill with Representative Darren Soto (FL-09), the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act. The bill was passed out of the Committee and reported favorably to the House floor during the markup session, a significant step toward passing this legislation through Congress. “Codifying this guidance from FinCEN cements in statute a well agreed upon interpretation of how money transmitter laws are applied to the decentralized blockchain ecosystem, which will allow the next iteration of the internet to be designed by Americans and with American values,” Emmer said. Transcript of Remarks: Thank you, Chairman McHenry. I’m proud to have my nonpartisan bill, the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act, included in this markup today. I’ve been working on this legislation for the past four congresses, and I’d like to thank my friend, Darren Soto from Florida, for co-leading this effort with us. The bill is simple: It codifies longstanding guidance from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network within Treasury (FinCEN) on how the money transmission framework applies to the decentralized blockchain space. The money transmission licensing framework in the United States is a state-by-state framework requiring more than 50 state and territorial licenses, as well as federal registration with FinCEN. Of course, money transmission licensing laws are designed to protect consumers from the risk of loss of assets – a risk presented when transmitters, money transmitters, and other intermediaries actually take control of consumer funds. However, with state regulations varying on what type of blockchain-related entities qualify as money transmitters, major discrepancies in the state-by-state framework create uncertainty for providers who never have custody of customer funds and, in fact, even provide extra layers of protection for the very consumers that money transmitter laws are designed to protect. To provide a solution, the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act codifies existing FinCEN guidance to affirm that non-custodial blockchain developers and service providers (like miners, validators, and wallet providers) that never custody consumer funds do not have to register as a money transmitter. This guidance was published in 2013 under the Obama Administration, it was republished in 2019 under the Trump Administration, and it remains the guidance FinCEN follows today under the Biden Administration. Codifying this guidance from FinCEN cements in statute a well agreed upon interpretation of how money transmitter laws are applied to the decentralized blockchain ecosystem, which will allow the next iteration of the internet to be designed by Americans, with American values. The markup today and the markup tomorrow in this Committee are focused on providing regulatory certainty for the digital asset ecosystem as a new, emerging innovation that has the potential to redesign the digital economy and provide the economic boom the United States needs to climb out of our $32 trillion national debt. Guidance is not as concrete as statute. Statute gives certainty. Guidance can change at the political whim of a new administration. Fortunately, that has not been the case with this FinCEN guidance, but we need to give this industry certainty in the form of statutes if we are going to stand a chance in developing the next iteration of the internet and the digital economy so that it reflects our values, American values. Again, thank you, Chairman McHenry for holding this markup today. Thank you, again, to my friend Darren Soto for his continued nonpartisan collaboration with us on this bill and the other digital asset legislation. I’d also like to recognize Ranking Member Waters and her staff for their open dialogue with our office on this bill in the days prior to this markup. I understand the time constraints haven’t allowed for Committee Democrats to gather feedback from the Treasury, but I appreciate your team’s attention to the bill and I’d like to offer to work with you and your team once this bill passes out of Committee to make alterations you need so that we can continue to move this legislation forward in the nonpartisan fashion it is being offered. And I yield back the balance of my time. Background: In 2013, FinCEN issued guidance on how it interprets the Bank Secrecy Act requirements relating to how money transmission should apply to certain businesses in the digital asset space and then republished similar updated guidance in 2019. In following this guidance, FinCEN, to this day (and in fact, since 2013), broadly assesses who controls access to the value (consumer funds) and asserts that anyone who has the ability to initiate transactions with users’ assets themselves qualifies as a money transmitter. The guidance specifically follows that blockchain developers and service providers (miners, validators, wallet providers) that never custody consumer funds are not money transmitters. While this guidance has not changed since 2019, states remain fragmented in their treatment of blockchain entities for money transmission purposes, which only stifles innovation and confuses the marketplace on how to comply with crucial consumer protection requirements. The Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act codifies this FinCEN guidance into law. The text of the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act can be found, here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-statement-northern-long-eared-bat-resolution-passing-house,Stauber Statement on the Northern Long-Eared Bat Resolution Passing the House,2023-07-27,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, a Congressional Review Act resolution disapproving of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s endangered listing of the Northern Long-Eared Bat passed the House of Representatives. Congressman Pete Stauber, who previously introduced a version of the legislation in the House, issued the following statement on the resolution. “The Northern Long-Eared Bat suffers from white nose syndrome through no fault of humans, yet its endangered listing allows environmental groups to stifle development across the bat’s range, which encompasses most of the continental U.S. If we're to build infrastructure, permit electricity transmission, mine for the resources we need for everyday life, and properly manage our forests, we need commonsense habitat conservation plans that protect wildlife without harming our economy. It’s past time we return the Endangered Species Act to its intended use, rather than a tool for radical anti-development activists to exploit. I’m glad to see the House pass this resolution today to overturn this listing.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republicans-demand-accountability-in-feeding-our-future-scandal,"Emmer, Minnesota Republicans Demand Accountability in Feeding Our Future Scandal",2023-07-20,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined Representatives Brad Finstad (MN-01), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) and Pete Stauber (MN-08) and House Agriculture Chairman G.T. Thompson (PA-15), House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (KY-01), and House Education and Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (NC-05) in sending a follow-up letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack regarding the Feeding Our Future scandal and abuse in USDA meal programs. “Secretary Vilsack’s woefully inadequate response to our previous inquiry makes it clear that the USDA is uninterested in addressing this fraud. The buck stops here: Minnesotans want answers about how their tax dollars were allowed to be stolen at the expense of kids and families. It’s time for this issue to be addressed with the seriousness it deserves,” Congressman Emmer said. In the letter, the members write: “According to allegations from the Department of Justice, Feeding Our Future, a Minnesota-based non-profit organization participating in the Federal Child Nutrition Programs, defrauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service of over $250 million. Subsequent to our September 30, 2022, letter to you, the number of people that have been charged has increased from 47 to 60, and a total of 10 people have plead guilty.” The members continued: “It is unclear how the USDA and its partnering state agency, the Minnesota Department of Education, failed to discern this fraud – described as the ‘largest pandemic fraud in the United States’ – earlier in the grant cycle. Millions of taxpayer funds were stolen at the expense of hungry children in the state.” The members conclude the letter by again requesting: All documents and communications regarding Feeding Our Future, including but not limited to any records required to be made available by Feeding Our Future for audit and inspection in connection with its participation in federal nutrition programs. All documents and communications regarding any USDA inspection or audit of any records associated with Feeding Our Future. All documents and communications between any USDA official, employee, agent, or contractor and any official or entity within the state of Minnesota, including but not limited to the Minnesota Department of Education, relating to Feeding Our Future. A copy of any relevant USDA policy relating to the authority of USDA officials, employees, agents, or contractors or state partner agencies to respond to and prevent potential fraud or improper conduct. All documents and communications relating to any actions taken or planned by USDA to establish additional integrity measures designed to prevent fraud and improper payments. The letter follows an earlier request made by Emmer and this group of members in September of 2022. The original letter, which received an inadequate response from the USDA, requested documents relating to taxpayer-funded meal programs and the Feeding Our Future scandal. You can read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/7/congresswoman-fischbach-introduces-the-investing-in-rural-america-act,Congresswoman Fischbach Introduces the Investing in Rural America Act,2023-07-19,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Investing in Rural America Act to provide critical capital resources to rural communities through improvements to the Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program. ""Rural communities across the country are struggling to retain population, much less attract future generations. One way Congress can support them is by eliminating unnecessary regulatory barriers to capital investment, particularly on critical community facilities like hospitals, childcare centers, and senior care centers,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""I am proud to introduce the Investing in Rural America Act to attract private sector investment in these kinds of facilities, strengthening our rural communities and encouraging future generations to see them as home."" ""The Investing in Rural America Act will help unlock the immense potential of our rural communities,” said Congressman Davis (NC-01). “Following decades of population decline, rural communities in eastern North Carolina and across America are struggling to keep jobs and maintain opportunities as hospitals close and the American dream falls out of reach for our young people. By prioritizing economic growth, strengthening infrastructure, and building up essential community facilities in our rural communities, the Investing in Rural America Act moves us one step closer toward creating a brighter future for all residents of rural America."" “With the help of Farm Credit Institutions, rural areas are able to access critical resources that help their communities thrive,” said Rep. Finstad (MN-01). “Right here in the First District, state-of-the-art facilities like Lakeview Methodist Health Care Center were made possible because of financing through partnerships with Farm Credit Institutions. The Rural Investment Act will strengthen these institutions’ ability to partner with local lenders in providing capital to rural areas and bring increased investment to community facilities, like Lakeview, that serve the entire southern Minnesota region.” “Too many rural communities struggle to attract investments because they lack important services like hospitals, schools, and broadband. No one should have fewer opportunities just because of where they live. I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Fischbach and our colleagues to introduce the bipartisan Investing in Rural America Act to help connect these communities with the resources they need to thrive,"" said Rep. Caraveo (CO-08). Background: The Investing in Rural America Act encourages investment in rural communities by: Restoring and codifying farm credit institutions' eligibility to finance essential rural facilities in partnership with local lenders and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Community Facilities Loan and Grant Program, Placing explicit guardrails around FCI's authorities in financing essential community facilities, including a requirement to offer participation with at least one non-FCI lending institution on any potential project, and Requiring a report to Congress on the projects undertaken by FCIs, including the partnerships established between lending institutions for such projects. This bill has the support of the Farm Credit Council, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Association of Counties, National Rural Health Association, American Psychological Association, National Farmers Union, National Association of Community Health Centers, American Academy of Family Physicians, National Grange, and AgCountry Farm Credit Services. ""We thank Reps. Michelle Fischbach, Don Davis, Brad Finstad, and Yadira Caraveo for their commitment to rural communities and for introducing the Investing in Rural America Act,"" said Farm Credit Council president and CEO Todd Van Hoose. ""This legislation ensures that Farm Credit, community banks and other lenders can continue to partner to ensure credit is readily available for rural hospitals, childcare centers, education and other essential rural community facilities. We look forward to working with Reps. Fischbach, Davis and Finstad and other members of the agriculture committee to have this commonsense legislation included in the upcoming Farm Bill."" ""Community facilities are the lifeblood of their rural communities, providing vital services that ensure rural Americans' quality of life. National Grange supports this legislation allowing Farm Credit to more easily partner with local commercial banks to finance critical rural infrastructure like health care facilities and critical access hospitals,"" said Betsy Huber, President, National Grange. “Rural hospitals are in crisis. Since 2010, 149 rural hospitals have shut down, leaving many rural communities without access to health care services. NFU is proud to support this bill, which will help offer reliable and consistent access to capital so that rural hospitals, childcare facilities, and health care centers can stay open. We need to ensure that rural America continues to thrive for the more than 60 million people who live there,"" said NFU President, Rob Larew. ""Facilities such as hospitals, fire departments and emergency medical services, often supported by county governments, are part of the critical infrastructure that helps our rural communities thrive,” said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. “The Investing in Rural America Act would provide much-needed resources for these facilities to continue to serve rural America. Counties applaud Representatives Fischbach, Davis, Finstad, and Caraveo for introducing this bipartisan legislation."" “Since 2005 over 190 rural hospitals have closed, in part because of a lack of access to affordable long-term capital. That’s why the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) supports Representatives Fischbach (R-MN), Davis (D-NC), Finstad (R-MN), and Caraveo's (D-CO) proposal to streamline Farm Credit’s ability to finance rural community facilities and bring more consistent, reliable credit to rural America,” said Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer, National Rural Health Association. ""On average, rural residents are older and face more health challenges than their urban counterparts. Increasing rural residents' access to health care is critical to addressing this issue. That is why the National Association of Community Health Centers supports this bill to allow Farm Credit greater ability to finance rural community facilities and community health centers and provide the capital they need to serve rural America,"" said Rachel Gonzales-Hanson, Interim President & CEO, National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC). “Extending access to mental health care continues to be a challenge in many rural and frontier communities,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association. “The Investing in Rural America Act opens up a new line of capital investment for a broad array of community-based entities that wish to establish or expand these services. We applaud Reps. Fischbach, Davis, Finstad, and Caraveo for adopting a population health approach in this bill and ensuring that the full needs of the community are met by allowing them to guide where and how services are delivered.” “These projects are critical to the long-term success of the rural communities we serve,” said Marc Knisely, president and CEO of AgCountry Farm Credit Services. “Our member-owners have been clear about the need for childcare, health services, and other infrastructure in their communities. It's our mission to meet our members needs and to strengthen the vitality of rural communities. We thank Congresswoman Fischbach for her leadership and support in these efforts.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/7/minnesota-republican-delegation-issues-statement-supporting-israel-and-condemning-anti-semitism,Minnesota Republican Delegation Issues Statement Supporting Israel and Condemning Anti-Semitism,2023-07-19,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, following Israeli President Isaac Herzog's address to a joint session of Congress and yesterday's vote on a resolution supporting Israel and condemning anti-Semitism, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), and Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) issued the following statement:“We strongly condemn anti-Semitism in all its forms, which is why we proudly voted to affirm our relationship with Israel and reject the absurd notion that Israel is a racist state. Despite recent comments made by some in our delegation, we Minnesota Republicans are united in standing with Israel and committed to doing everything possible to strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/minnesota-republican-delegation-issues-statement-supporting-israel-and,Minnesota Republican Delegation Issues Statement Supporting Israel and Condemning Anti-Semitism,2023-07-19,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, following Israeli President Isaac Herzog's address to a joint session of Congress and yesterday's vote on a resolution supporting Israel and condemning anti-Semitism, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) issued the following statement. “We strongly condemn anti-Semitism in all its forms, which is why we proudly voted to affirm our relationship with Israel and reject the absurd notion that Israel is a racist state. Despite recent comments made by some in our delegation, we Minnesota Republicans are united in standing with Israel and committed to doing everything possible to strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/7/rep-fischbach-and-chairman-smith-host-ways-means-committee-field-hearing-in-mn-s-7th-district,Rep. Fischbach and Chairman Smith Host Ways & Means Committee Field Hearing in MN's 7th District,2023-07-10,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Kimball, MN - On July 10, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) and Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) hosted a Ways and Means Committee field hearing titled ""Trade in America: Agriculture and Critical Supply Chains"" at Schiefelbein Farms in Kimball, Minnesota. Members heard from an impressive panel with generations of knowledge about the agricultural and mineral industries: Don Schiefelbein, Co-Owner of Schiefelbein Farms and host of the hearing Carolyn Olson, Owner/Operator, Olson Organics of Cottonwood and Vice President of Minnesota Farm Bureau Brad Vold, Owner/Operator, Dorrich Dairy and Board Director for Land O’ Lakes Tom Bakk, Former State Senator and Independent Consultant Gary Wertish, President of Minnesota Farmers Union ""The land of lakes is a top five agriculture exporter in the country, and a leader in developing market access for the crops we grow. We are also blessed with mineral deposits that have helped build the national highway system and win world wars,"" said Rep. Fischbach. ""Minnesota is well-positioned to build our future with what lies below our feet, and through the Ways and Means Committee, Congress is pushing for a more aggressive trade agenda."" The Congresswoman thanks all of the panelists, especially Don Schiefelbein who hosted the event, the public who attended the hearing, the Ways and Means Committee Members who came out to the great state of Minnesota to learn more from the experts about how to bolster American supply chains and combat China, and Chairman Smith for his leadership, for holding this hearing hearing, and for his continued work listening to the needs of Americans. You can watch the full hearing here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/7/july-10-house-ways-means-committee-field-hearing-in-kimball-mn,"July 10: House Ways & Means Committee Field Hearing in Kimball, MN",2023-07-09,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - House Committee on Ways and Means Member Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) and Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08) are excited to announce that the Committee will hold a field hearing titled ""Trade in America: Agriculture and Critical Supply Chains - Kimball, Minnesota."" The hearing will take place at 2:30 PM on Monday, July 10, 2023, at Schiefelbein Farms in Kimball, Minnesota. Members will hear from an impressive panel with generations of knowledge about the agricultural and mineral industries. WHAT: Field hearing on Trade in America: Agriculture and Critical Supply Chains DATE: Monday, July 10, 2023 TIME: 2:30 PM CST WHERE: Schiefelbein Farms in Kimball, Minnesota PRESS RSVP: Due to limited seating capacity, press who wish to attend in-person should RSVP to JP Freire, Tim Foster, and Dylan Chandler. How to Watch the Hearing: Members of the press who wish to attend in-person should RSVP with the Committee staff listed above. Those who are unable to attend in-person can access a livestream on the Ways and Means Committee YouTube channel. NOTE: The livestream will not be available until the hearing starts. About the hearing: Ways and Means Committee members are listening to American workers, families, farmers, and small businesses who are impacted by U.S. trade policy in one way or another every day. These conversations will focus on holding China accountable, securing our critical supply chains, opening new and enforcing access to markets for U.S. farmers, stopping unfair and illicit trade practices, and ensuring America’s competitiveness. An open and honest discussion will determine the policies coming out of the Committee and Congress. Securing Supply Chains: Increased U.S. production and deeper cooperation with allies are needed for key supply chains, particularly for critical minerals, to maintain reliable access to all materials Americans need to stay at the cutting edge of innovation. The Committee will explore how the Biden Administration has tied the hands of American miners with unnecessary red tape while increasing our reliance on minerals from bad actors, including Chinese state-owned enterprises and countries that use forced labor. Robust Enforcement of U.S. Trade: The Ways and Means Committee will explore how the Biden Administration’s failure to strictly enforce our trade agreements, especially USMCA and holding China accountable for agriculture purchase commitments, has impacted U.S. farmers and workers. Expanding Markets for U.S. Agriculture: China and other global competitors are aggressively pursuing new export markets for agricultural products. The Ways and Means Committee will hear directly from Minnesota farmers about how and where to expand on the success of USMCA and push U.S. trading partners to expand market access for U.S. agricultural products. The Trade in America: Agriculture and Critical Supply Chains hearing will take place Monday, July 10, 2023, at Schiefelbein Farms in Kimball, Minnesota. READ: House Approves Bill to Reassert Congress’ Constitutional Authority Over Trade, Strengthen U.S.-Taiwan Relationship Recap of Staten Island Field Hearing: At A New York City Port, Ways and Means Committee Hears How Improved Trade Enforcement is Needed to Counter China’s Unfair Trade Practices and Allow American Workers to Compete and Win Recap of Georgia Field Hearing: In Georgia, Small Businesses Share How GOP Pro Growth Tax Plans Continue to Make a Difference Recap of Oklahoma Field Hearing: In the Heartland, Ways and Means Committee Listens to Working Americans’ Struggles in Biden Economy",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-emmer-meets-with-the-disabled-american-veterans-of-minnesota,Congressman Emmer meets with the Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota,2023-07-06,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"ST. CLOUD, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) sat down with members of the Disabled American Veterans of Minnesota at VFW Post 428 to provide updates on the work being done to support disabled veterans and their families. “These heroes have made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our country, and it’s our duty to take care of them when they return home,” Emmer said. “We are proud of the work we have done so far in the 118th Congress to support disabled veterans and their families, and we are just getting started,” Emmer concluded. Emmer has been a strong supporter of improving healthcare services for veterans. During the 118th Congress, Congressman Emmer supported the passage of the RELIEVE Act. This bill expands community care options for veterans requiring emergency treatment, enabling them to receive care at local hospitals in times of urgent need. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-emmer-visits-chaska-based-circuit-board-manufacturer,Congressman Emmer Visits Chaska-Based Circuit Board Manufacturer,2023-07-06,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHASKA, M.N. – On Wednesday, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) toured Pro-Tech Interconnect Solutions. Pro-Tech’s Chaska facility has 83 employees and manufactures printed circuit boards for the military, aerospace, medical and commercial industries. “Manufacturing products like chips and semiconductors here at home doesn’t just provide good-paying jobs to Minnesotans. Investing in the production of this essential technology is important to our national security,” Emmer said. “Thank you to the team at Pro-Tech for sharing their work with us.” Pro-Tech President Melanie Bera Anderson added, “Pro-Tech Interconnect Solutions LLC is the only 100% woman-owned and operated “rigid” printed circuit board manufacturer in the USA. We build boards for the F35 Jet, medical implants and equipment, to commercial controls.” Printed circuit boards like the kind produced by Pro-Tech are used in virtually all electronic products. However, only about four percent of printed circuit boards are produced domestically. Pro-Tech was founded in 1968, and since 2018 has been operated by the woman-owned American Circuit Corporation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-visits-st-cloud-va-hospital,Emmer visits St. Cloud VA Hospital,2023-07-06,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"ST. CLOUD, M.N. – In a continued effort to support the health and well-being of Minnesota veterans, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) visited the St. Cloud Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center today. “It was a pleasure to meet with the VA’s staff to discuss their important work to ensure that our veterans are getting the best quality care,” Emmer said. During the visit, Congressman Emmer met with hospital leaders and staff members including Health Care System Director Brent Thelen, PhD, Chief of Staff Javed Tunio, MD, Associate Director of Patient Care Services/Nurse Executive Breta Monroe, APRN, Associate Director Cheryl Thieschafer, and Public Affairs Director Barry Venable. In September, Emmer led a bipartisan, bicameral letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough urging him to improve veterans’ ability to access emergency care. Specifically, the letter asked the Secretary to treat all emergency transport reimbursements the same way, regardless of a veteran's service-connected disability rating. Additionally, with Emmer’s support, the House of Representatives recently passed the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act. This legislation will provide a 4.2 percent increase in disability benefits to veterans and survivors’ benefits to military families. Sixth District veterans struggling to access benefits from the VA can receive support through Emmer’s office. More information is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-leads-effort-to-improve-rural-mental-health-access,Emmer Leads Effort to Improve Rural Mental Health Access,2023-07-05,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) is continuing his longtime advocacy for greater access to mental health resources for rural Americans. Recently, Emmer led colleagues in a letter urging for the reauthorization of the FRSAN in this year’s Farm Bill. “Americans living in rural areas and those working in the ag industry are facing acute mental health challenges and urgently need support,” Emmer said. “We are proud to continue our years-long effort to provide resources for rural and mental health care.” Approximately 6.5 million rural Americans suffer from a mental illness but receive less frequent mental health treatment from providers with less training than their counterparts living in non-rural areas. For farmers, suicide rates are now three and a half times higher than that of the general population. On Friday, Emmer advocated for the reauthorization FRSAN and increased funding in interviews with Mark Dorenkamp of Brownfield Ag Radio and Linda Brekke of Linder Farm Network. Background: The Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) was first created in 2008 to provide mental health resources to Americans living in rural areas and those working in the agriculture industry. The program lapsed due to lack of funding until 2018, when Emmer’s STRESS Act, which renewed and improved FRSAN, was included in the Farm Bill. FRSAN funds state-level programs like the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Bend, Don’t Break project which received $500,000 to support mental health counseling and a 24/7 Farm & Rural Helpline. Emmer’s letter can be found here. A list of agricultural, rural and mental health organizations supporting the effort is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-tours-crown-college,Emmer Tours Crown College,2023-07-05,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"ST. BONIFACIUS, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) met with senior leadership at Crown College in Carver County. “We are grateful to Crown College for their continued work to provide top-notch, faith-led higher education here in the Sixth District. Access to education that reflects our religious is a right, and deserves to be protected,” Emmer said. “Thank you to the students, faculty and staff of Crown College for opening up their campus for today’s visit,” Emmer concluded. President Andrew C. Denton shared, “For over 100 years, Crown College has remained a boldly Christian college dedicated to our mission to provide biblically based education. We are thankful to Congressman Emmer for supporting Crown as we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting our mission and our community’s deeply held religious beliefs.” Crown College was founded in 1916 as a Bible college in St. Paul. Now operating from their campus in St. Bonifacius, they offer faith-guided in-person, online and graduate degree programs. The college also offers sixteen NCAA Division III teams, as well as internship and summer outreach programs. Background: In May, Crown College and the University of Northwestern-St. Paul sued the Walz administration over language in the 2023 Minnesota higher education funding bill that would have exempted the schools from participating in the Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program because they required “faith statements.” The PSEO program allows Minnesota students to earn college credits while still in high school. Following the issuance of a temporary injunction from U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel, the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office announced that it would not enforce the funding bill’s provision disallowing schools with faith statements. A statement from Emmer about the Walz administration’s discrimination against faith-based education is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/7/minnesota-delegation-urges-biden-administration-to-approve-minnesota-request-for-disaster-declaration,Minnesota Delegation Urges Biden Administration to Approve Minnesota Request for Disaster Declaration,2023-07-01,2023,2023-07,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Friday, U.S. Representatives Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Brad Finstad (R-MN-01), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Dean Phillips (D-MN-03), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05), Tom Emmer (R-MN-06), and Pete Stauber (R-MN-08) and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) urged the Biden Administration to approve Minnesota’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration to help communities that are working to recover from severe weather and flooding. “We write to you in strong support of the state of Minnesota’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration under the Stafford Act to assist communities that are working to recover from severe weather this spring including flooding due to excessive snowmelt and rain. These natural disaster events have caused significant damage in our state, and we ask that you quickly grant approval for federal government disaster assistance,” the lawmakers wrote to President Biden. “Minnesota experienced record winter snowfalls and a colder than normal March leading to large snowpacks. In April, a rapid snow melt combined with heavy and continued precipitation caused high water and flooding throughout the state,” the lawmakers continued. “The resiliency of Minnesotans during times of natural disaster has been shown time and time again. When flood waters rise and homes are damaged, volunteers and neighbors are quick to fill sandbags, clean up debris, and lend a hand to those in need. Impacted communities will repair the damage and rebuild following these disasters, but timely federal assistance will speed up the recovery effort.” Full text of the letter is available HERE and below: Dear Mr. President: We write to you in strong support of the state of Minnesota’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration under the Stafford Act to assist communities that are working to recover from severe weather this spring including flooding due to excessive snowmelt and rain. These natural disaster events have caused significant damage in our state, and we ask that you quickly grant approval for federal government disaster assistance. Minnesota experienced record winter snowfalls and a colder than normal March leading to large snowpacks. In April, a rapid snow melt combined with heavy and continued precipitation caused high water and flooding throughout the state. Areas of the Mississippi River reached its highest water level in over twenty years, and the St. Croix River rose to its major flood stage. Flood conditions have also caused damage in northern and western Minnesota including along the Red River Valley. Joint federal and state emergency management teams have conducted preliminary damage assessments and have determined that the losses meet the threshold for federal assistance under the Stafford Act through a Major Disaster Declaration. Governor Walz has submitted an official request for disaster assistance for the period of April 11 through April 30, 2023. The request covers 35 counties and the Prairie Island Indian Community. The letter was dated June 28, 2023. The resiliency of Minnesotans during times of natural disaster has been shown time and time again. When flood waters rise and homes are damaged, volunteers and neighbors are quick to fill sandbags, clean up debris, and lend a hand to those in need. Impacted communities will repair the damage and rebuild following these disasters, but timely federal assistance will speed up the recovery effort. We strongly support the state of Minnesota’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration under the Stafford Act and ask that you grant its approval to assist communities that are working to recover from severe weather this spring.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:18:03Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/6/rep-fischbach-on-scotus-student-loan-decision,Rep. Fischbach on SCOTUS Student Loan Decision,2023-06-30,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - In a 6-3 vote, the Supreme Court ruled that federal law does not authorize the Department of Education to forgive student debt. ""President Biden's student loan 'forgiveness' scheme was an attempted abuse of power, would have done nothing to address the rising cost of education, and would have been a slap in the face to every person who took on extra jobs during college, already paid off their debts, or chose not to go to college,"" said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). ""I am thankful to the Supreme Court for upholding the rule of law and preventing President Biden from abusing executive powers in order to deliver on a campaign promise.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-applauds-passage-of-middle-class-borrower-protection-act,Emmer Applauds Passage of Middle-Class Borrower Protection Act,2023-06-23,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) celebrated the passage of Representative Warren Davidson’s (OH-08) Middle-Class Borrower Protection Act. Emmer was an original cosponsor of the bill. “Americans are already struggling after years of President Biden’s failing economy. Homeownership already feels out of reach and now this administration wants to subsidize individuals with a history of financial irresponsibility and penalize Americans who have worked hard to build strong credit,” said Emmer. “We were proud to cosponsor Representative Davidson’s legislation to ensure the United States never adopts a credit redistribution scheme,” Emmer concluded. Emmer’s office recently surveyed Sixth District Constituents on the impacts of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) rule. 93% of the 6,000 respondents said that prospective homebuyers with good credit should not be forced to subsidize high-risk borrowers. Emmer spoke in opposition to the FHFA rule change in a recent Financial Services Committee hearing. Background: The Middle-Class Borrower Protection Act rescinds the new rule issued by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) that would have made changes to the fees charged by mortgage lenders. The FHFA rule would have increased fees for half of all prospective borrowers with FICO scores above 680 while decreasing fees for 90% of those with credit scores below 680, regardless of how much of a down payment they made or if they qualify as low income. 19 out of 20 Americans have credit scores above 680. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/6/fischbach-smith-larson-and-panetta-introduce-bill-to-expand-access-to-veterinarians-in-rural-areas,"Fischbach, Smith, Larson, and Panetta Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Veterinarians in Rural Areas",2023-06-23,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Mohamed Sawah Reps. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Adrian Smith (R-NE), John Larson (D-CT), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) introduced the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, legislation to help address the shortages in essential veterinary services facing rural communities. “This bill is common-sense legislation that maximizes the impact of the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program by getting more of these dollars to rural America and keeping less of these dollars in Washington D.C.,” said Rep. Fischbach. “My Ways & Means colleagues and I introduced The Rural Veterinary Workforce Act to eliminate this unnecessary tax to ensure quality treatment for veterinarians in rural communities like ours so they can continue their important work caring for America’s livestock and maintaining our supply chains.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-hosts-2023-congressional-art-competition-winner-in-washington,Emmer Hosts 2023 Congressional Art Competition Winner in Washington,2023-06-21,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the office of Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) hosted Sixth District student Elizabeth Johnson in Washington, D.C. in recognition of her winning submission in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition. Last month, Elizabeth’s artwork Portrait of a Young Girl was chosen as winner of the contest. The Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition for high school students across the United States. The winner from each district wins the chance to travel to Washington D.C. to visit with their Representative and see their artwork displayed in the Halls of Congress. “The Congressional Art Competition provides a great opportunity to showcase the work of our young artists,” Emmer said. “We are continually impressed by their talent and hope this annual tradition inspires more Sixth District students to pursue the arts. Congratulations to Elizabeth on this impressive achievement!” Elizabeth is a ninth grader in Holly Madison’s art class at Saint Cloud Christian School in Saint Cloud. She is the daughter of Mr. Jeffrey Johnson and Dr. Julie Johnson. You can read more about the competition here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-congressional-delegation-advocate-for-the-133rd-airlift-wing-to-receive-new-c-130j-transport-planes,"Emmer, Minnesota Congressional Delegation Advocate for the 133rd Airlift Wing to Receive New C-130J Transport Planes",2023-06-21,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, as well as Representatives Brad Finstad (MN-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Dean Phillips (MN-03), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), and Pete Stauber (MN-08) in sending a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Director of Air National Guard Lieutenant General Michael Loh recommending the Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force select the 133rd Airlift Wing of the Minnesota National Guard to receive new C-130J transport planes. “The 133rd Airlift Wing C-130 fleet supports a wide range of military operations, including crucial homeland security missions. We urge Air Force leadership to support this mission by making the 133rd Airlift Wing the home for the C-130Js,” Emmer said. By selecting the 133rd Airlift Wing, the aging C-130H Hercules transport planes would be replaced with new C-130J aircraft. By modernizing the C-130H fleet, the 133rd Airlift Wing will maintain its capability to successfully execute crucial missions, enhancing our nation's security and capacity to address both domestic and international challenges. The full text of the letter is available here. Background: Emmer has long been a supporter of the C-130 mission of the 133rd Airlift Wing. Earlier this year, he visited the 133rd Airlift Wing at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Joint Air Reserve Station. In August of 2021, Emmer led a letter with the entire Minnesota Congressional Delegation to Secretary Kendall and General Brown of the United States Air Force to underscore their concerns with proposed reductions of the C-130 fleet. The 133rd Airlift Wing, based in St. Paul, Minnesota, has demonstrated exemplary standards in recruitment, retention, and mission readiness since its establishment in 1921. Located at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, one of the largest hubs in the United States, the 133rd Airlift Wing has the advantage of supporting a robust personnel strength and achieving performance percentages that rank among the highest in the nation. From this strategic location, the Wing can swiftly deploy to offer care and transportation to injured individuals between medical treatment facilities, as well as essential support for domestic, humanitarian, and deployed combat operations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/6/minnesota-congressional-delegation-urges-air-force-and-air-national-guard-to-select-the-133rd-airlift-wing-to-receive-new-c-130j-transport-planes,Minnesota Congressional Delegation Urges Air Force and Air National Guard to Select the 133rd Airlift Wing to Receive New C-130J Transport Planes,2023-06-15,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Brad Finstad (R-MN-01), Angie Craig (D-MN-02), Dean Phillips (D-MN-03), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05), Tom Emmer (R-MN-06), and Pete Stauber (R-MN-08) and U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) and sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Director of the Air National Guard Lieutenant General Michael Loh urging the Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force to select Minnesota National Guard’s 133rd Airlift Wing to receive new C-130J transport planes. If the 133rd Airlift Wing is selected, new C-130J planes would replace eight, decades-old C-130H Hercules transport planes. Modernizing the C-130H fleet will ensure that the 133rd Airlift Wing is able to continue carrying out critical missions, boosting our nation's security and ability to respond to challenges at home and abroad. “As the first federally recognized Air unit in the National Guard, the 133rd Airlift Wing is a historic unit with a history of accomplishment and partnership to be proud of. The 133rd is an integral part of our state, the overall National Guard and our country's security and as you look to finalize desired basing locations for the C-130J, we, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, ask that you consider military judgment and include factors beyond the basing criteria. The 133rd Airlift Wing has repeatedly met and exceeded expectations, distinguishing itself across various missions. The 133rd is mission proven and marked by operational accomplishment,” wrote the lawmakers. “The performance, readiness, capabilities, strength, and partnerships of the 133rd Airlift Wing are hard to match and provide a strong case to be one of the next states to recapitalize to C-130Js. We are proud of the 133rd and the Minnesota Guard and it is our privilege to work with and support them every day. We are grateful for your openness to consider input on this fielding decision,” the lawmakers continued. You can read the full text of the letter here and below: Dear Lieutenant General Loh, We want to thank you for your continued support and visits to Minnesota and to the National Guard. We strongly support Minnesota’s National Guard and the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our country. There is strong bipartisan support to continue to ensure our brave servicemembers in Minnesota have the right resources and latest equipment, including aircraft, to succeed and carry out their missions. This support extends to the Minnesota National Guard’s 133rd Airlift Wing and its long history of serving our state and country. As the first federally recognized Air unit in the National Guard, the 133rd Airlift Wing is a historic unit with a history of accomplishment and partnership to be proud of. The 133rd is an integral part of our state, the overall National Guard and our country's security and as you look to finalize desired basing locations for the C-130J, we, the Minnesota Congressional Delegation, ask that you consider military judgment and include factors beyond the basing criteria. The 133rd Airlift Wing has repeatedly met and exceeded expectations, distinguishing itself across various missions. The 133rd is mission proven and marked by operational accomplishment including: Being awarded the 2022 Curtis N. ""Rusty"" Metcalf Trophy, which honors the most ""Outstanding Airlift of Refueling Wing in the Air National Guard"" Major Katie Lunning, who in 2023 became the first nurse in the Air National Guard to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross Flying 10% of all sorties to the National Capital Region in support of Operation CAPITOL RESPONSE, moving 10% of all personnel and material, more than any other unit across Active Duty, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserves Corps The 133rd has served admirably and is always ready to support, participate in, or execute National Guard Bureau deployments, Long-Term Military Personnel Appropriation missions, Mission-ReadyAirlift, and Joint Army/Air Tactical Training programs. The 133rd also leads the nation’s longest continuous troop exchange with Norway, and our Croatia and Norway State Partnership Programs. All these partners benefit and embrace the 133rd’s tactical airlift mission. The Air National Guard augments an incredible fighting force in the United States Air Force and the 133rd plays a critical role in the overall readiness and effectiveness of the nation’s air forces. The 133rd features airlift capability multipliers such as the low density/high-demand Contingency Response and Aeromedical Evacuation units that provide both critical warfighting and domestic operations capabilities. The 109th Aeromedical Evacuation squadron and 133rd Contingency Response team are both leaders across the Air Force and will undoubtedly magnify its capacity with recapitalization to the C-130J platform. The Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area gives a strong strategic advantage to the mission of the 133rd and the National Guard Bureau. The Twin Cities provides the 133rd an excellent talent pool from which to recruit, including anchor higher education institutions with which to partner on initiatives important to both the 133rd and the state of Minnesota. The area also boasts a strong and vibrant innovation and technology base serving multiple industries, and one of the best airports in the nation which also serves as a major airline hub. Expertly utilizing this pool of resources the 133rd is unmatched in providing properly assigned, trained, and ready Airmen including: Consistently achieving top Fill Rates, masterfully training and assigning Airmen Being one of three peer wings exceeding 97% end strength, quickly restoring above 100% Currently and consistently achieving top rank in Medical Readiness maintaining a force that is 97% deployable Beyond mission readiness, the Twin Cities area, the state of Minnesota, and the National Guard have established and maintain an excellent relationship that goes beyond the immediate mission of the Guard and the 133rd remains at the forefront of those partnerships. Programs like the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network, Serving our Troops, and STARBASE work to engage with Minnesotans and our veteran network at all stages of life and experience. The performance, readiness, capabilities, strength, and partnerships of the 133rd Airlift Wing are hard to match and provide a strong case to be one of the next states to recapitalize to C-130Js. We are proud of the 133rd and the Minnesota Guard and it is our privilege to work with and support them everyday. We are grateful for your openness to consider input on this fielding decision. CC: Frank Kendall III, Secretary of the Air Force",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-continues-push-for-clarity-for-digital-assets,Emmer Continues Push for Clarity for Digital Assets,2023-06-14,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) provided remarks at Tuesday’s House Financial Services Committee hearing entitled The Future of Digital Assets: Providing Clarity for the Digital Asset Ecosystem. Emmer provides remarks at Financial Services Committee hearing on Digital Assets During the hearing, Emmer spoke on the draft legislation surrounding digital asset market structure and gave his thoughts as to how he felt the bill could be improved. A transcript of Emmer’s remarks can be found below: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I want to thank Chairman McHenry, for holding this important hearing today. And thank all the witnesses for your testimony. We are convening to discuss a remarkable piece of draft legislation on digital asset market structure. It’s a product of joint committee collaboration, which, here in Congress, doesn’t happen often, and it’s drafted thoughtfully and intelligently. I want to commend Chairman McHenry, Chairman Thompson of the Agriculture Committee, and both of their teams for all their hard work. Crypto will thrive with or without the United States. What we seek to do today in discussing this draft is establish if the next iteration of the internet is going to be designed by Americans and for Americans, or if it’s going to emulate the values of some other country. It must be the former, not the latter. American digital asset innovators and entrepreneurs desperately need regulatory clarity, regulatory certainty, regulatory confidence, and regulatory competitiveness. The Four C’s. Instead, as a product of Congress ceding its power to the Administrative State since the mid ‘90s, this Administration has been able to abuse its regulatory power toward the digital asset ecosystem to the detriment of the American people. We have an SEC Chair who flip flops before Congress telling us last year that he needs legislation to regulate the digital asset industry and telling us this year that he changed his mind, he actually does have the authority, in his own mind, the statutory authority to regulate this space. I would disagree. But, obviously this sends mixed signals. The SEC and the CFTC, the two potential primary regulators, are constantly at odds on what digital assets are commodities or securities. This sends mixed signals to stakeholders. This Administration weaponized the recent bank crisis to de-bank the digital asset community, deploying an Operation Chokepoint style assault on this legal industry. We have enforcement actions almost every week alleging different tokens are securities or different actions fall under SEC jurisdiction. Yet, the SEC has failed to produce a single rule or regulation to help the unique digital asset industry come into compliance. A failure of the Administrative State. Congress needs to step into the driver’s seat and pass a bill that provides regulatory clarity, certainty, confidence, and competitiveness. I believe the McHenry/Thompson bill can get us there. It sets up a dual registration framework that allows projects to crowdfund and gives tokens a mechanism to move from issuance to decentralization. However, the way it is currently drafted conflicts philosophically with how I consider this asset class. Fundamentally, I don’t believe digital assets themselves are ever securities. Instead, I believe digital assets can be obtained through a securities contract. The distinction between the “investment contract” and the “asset” of the investment contract underpins my eight years of legislative work in this space and it’s the basis of my bill, the Securities Clarity Act, which I was fortunate to have Mr. Thompson on as a cosponsor last Congress. Primarily, while I know this is not the author’s intention, my concern is that the McHenry/Thompson bill, as drafted, currently sets up a framework where one fungible digital asset can be both a security and a commodity... at the same time. On its face, that's not possible - for one thing to have two distinct classifications, that’s not possible. That’s because the SEC does not clearly distinguish the asset from the investment contract. In current law, securities inherently include commodities. Let’s go back to Howey: The orange groves themselves were obviously a commodity, but they were obtained through a securities contract. Nonetheless, the SEC considered those orange groves a security, rather than the asset of a security, but it did not consider all other orange groves a security. The SEC does this today with digital assets, which, if continued, makes it impossible for digital assets to be in compliance with the law and to be used for their utility. Chair Gensler gave a speech just last week discussing his belief that the asset of the investment contract is itself the investment contract, completely bogus. For the text to achieve what the authors want it to achieve, which is to enable a framework in which a project can crowdfund and still create an asset that can be used for its utility, then the text needs to clearly assert concepts established in the Securities Clarity Act – that a token is separate and distinct from an investment contract. This will allow the bill to provide the necessary regulatory clarity, regulatory certainty, regulatory confidence, and regulatory competitiveness to ensure the next iteration of the internet is designed by Americans and for Americans. Again, thanks our witnesses for being here and thanks Chairman McHenry and Chairman Thompson for your work on this framework. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/6/rep-fischbach-votes-to-defend-the-2nd-amendment-and-disabled-sportsmen,Rep. Fischbach Votes to Defend the 2nd Amendment and Disabled Sportsmen,2023-06-14,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - This week, Congresswoman Fischbach and her Republican colleagues voted in favor of overturning the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives' (ATF) rule that forces law-abiding gun owners to dispose of or register their firearms with stabilizing braces. ""Millions of sportsmen with disabilities, many of them veterans, use stabilizing braces in order to shoot firearms they would otherwise be unable to hold. The ATF rule under this administration makes many of those people felons,"" said Rep. Fischbach. ""I adamantly oppose this rule. It is another example of how Democrats are trying to chip away at the 2nd Amendment rights of law abiding citizens. I am here to protect the constitutional rights of Americans, not restrict them."" H.J. Res. 44, Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives relating to ""Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached 'Stabilizing Braces'” passed in the House 219-210. This legislation would repeal the Biden Administration's Stabilizing Brace Rule.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-grills-yellen-on-looming-recession,Emmer Grills Yellen on Looming Recession,2023-06-13,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) questioned Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen about the threat of a recession at a House Financial Services Committee hearing on Tuesday. Emmer questions Secretary Yellen during a hearing of the House Financial Services Committee on Tuesday Emmer took Yellen to task on the Biden administration’s changing goalposts on the definition of a recession, the failure of the National Bureau of Economic Research (the official “recession scorekeeper”) to include inflation as a primary factor when determining the state of the economy and the effect of the Fed’s policies on low-income and fixed-income Americans. Secretary Yellen is required to testify before the Financial Services Committee annually on the international financial system. Since President Biden took office, Americans pay $864 more per month to maintain the same quality of life. In the same period, the average real personal income has only increased 2.4 percent. These metrics are not taken into primary consideration for the Biden administration’s calculation of whether the United States has entered a recession. A transcript of Emmer’s questioning can be found below. Transcript: Emmer: Thank you very much, and I want to thank Chairman McHenry for holding this important hearing today and I want to thank you, Madam Secretary, for your testimony this morning. The National Bureau of Economic Research is the official “recession scorekeeper,” according to the White House. Pre-pandemic, or before the pandemic, the definition of a “recession” was pretty easy, it was two consecutive quarters of economic contraction. However, somewhere along the way in this new Biden Administration, during President Biden’s tenure, the Administration seems to have changed the definition of recession and the National Bureau of Economic Research asserts that a recession is now “a significant decline in economic activity that is spread across the economy and lasts more than a few months.” This has had a bit of a gaslighting effect on the American people, so let’s drill into this a bit. Secretary Yellen, does the National Bureau of Economic Research give any weight to real personal income when determining if we are in a significant economic decline? Yellen: They look at a wide array of statistics, and the second definition that you gave of a broad contraction that last more than several months that is how the NBER… Emmer: Reclaiming my time. The answer is yes. Does the National Bureau of Economic Research directly consider inflation when determining if we are in a significant economic decline? Yellen: Inflation is not part of an economic decline. Emmer: Ok, well the National Bureau of Economic Research while it doesn’t directly consider inflation, inflation is imbedded into real income and spending variables that attract. American families pay an average of $864 more per month today than they did when this administration started. That’s an extra $126 on food per month, an extra $159 on shelter per month, and an extra $123 on energy per month, just to name a few. This is since Biden took office, unless Americans have gotten a 15.3% pay raise in the last two years, they’ve effectively gotten a pay cut. Secretary Yellen, has the average American income increased 15.3% during the Biden Administration? Yellen: We have the strongest job market in the… Emmer: Reclaiming my time. Thank you, Madam Secretary. The answer is easy, it's no. Since Biden took office, the average real personal income has only increased 2.4%, that would’ve been the answer. So, while it costs nearly $900 more a month for American families to afford the same quality of life that they had in 2019, Americans aren’t getting paid anywhere near that much more. So how is it, then, that the National Bureau of Economic Research thinks it’s appropriate to exclude inflation as a primary factor when determining the state of our economy? It’s a rhetorical question, Madam Secretary, because we all know that the bureaucracy cherry-picks the factors that yield the most convincing numbers for whatever narrative they want to assert. Much like you were starting to deflect and say, “We’ve got the greatest whatever.” Americans know better. This Administration is telling Americans, “The economy is strong!” But Americans certainly feel like things are worse today than they were before Biden took office. Secretary Yellen, I’m asking these questions because throughout 2021 you along with several members responsible for fiscal decision-making in this Administration, incredibly, asserted that inflation was “transitory,” perpetuating a fallacy that government could keep spending money it didn’t have and everything and everyone would be just fine. Well, it’s not fine. As a result of misrepresenting real economic conditions, trillions of dollars were printed, injecting cash into a shutdown system, which skyrocketed prices when we opened back up. Now, in order to tame runaway inflation, the Fed’s only tool is to rapidly raise interest rates. The Fed is on its 10th consecutive rate hike, which are intended to purposefully increase unemployment, make it harder for Americans to find jobs, make it harder for Americans to buy a home or a car. These decisions, which unfortunately seem to be the only solution at this point, have harmed low-income Americans and Americans living on fixed income the most. We should have never delayed implementation of monetary policy this long under the fallacy that “inflation is transitory.” The Administration made a lot of decisions that crushed Americans and clearly the fiscal decision makers of this Administration are only concerned with cherry-picking favorable data points for political purposes. It’s time this Administrative State becomes serious and gives an accurate depiction of the economy and American suffering on the hands of an unaccountable government rather than gaslight their way out. I yield back. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:15:57Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-davidson-introduce-sec-stabilization-act-to-remove-chair-gary-gensler,"Emmer, Davidson Introduce ‘SEC Stabilization Act’ to Remove Chair Gary Gensler",2023-06-12,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) joined the introduction of Rep. Warren Davidson's (OH-08) SEC Stabilization Act, fulfilling the promise to restructure the Securities and Exchange Commission and remove Gary Gensler as Chair of the SEC. This legislation takes corrective action to remove Chairman Gensler following his long series of abuses that have been permitted under the current SEC structure. “American investors and industry deserve clear and consistent oversight, not political gamesmanship. The SEC Stabilization Act will make common-sense changes to ensure that the SEC’s priorities are with the investors they are charged to protect and not the whims of its reckless Chair. Thank you, Representative Davidson, for leading this important effort to restore sanity at the SEC,” said Emmer. “U.S. capital markets must be protected from a tyrannical Chairman, including the current one,” said Rep. Warren Davidson. “That’s why I’m introducing legislation to fix the ongoing abuse of power and ensure protection that is in the best interest of the market for years to come. It’s time for real reform and to fire Gary Gensler as Chair of the SEC.” Background: Chair Gensler’s tenure has highlighted a fundamental flaw in the SEC’s structure. Under current law, the SEC Chair retains a concerning level of discretion which leaves the other four commissioner positions effectively redundant. The SEC Stabilization Act adjusts the commission to include an additional sixth commissioner, while also creating an Executive Director who oversees the agency’s day-to-day operations. All rulemaking, enforcement, and investigation authority would remain with the commissioners, who are subject to staggered six-year terms. Under the SEC Stabilization Act, a single political party would never hold more than three commissioner seats at any given time, thus protecting U.S. capital markets from any future destabilizing political agenda. The ensuing stability would also force commissioners to work together prior to approving any significant actions under the SEC’s purview. This would implement a similar structure that is currently in place at the Federal Election Commission. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-colleagues-re-launch-congressional-hockey-caucus,"Stauber, Colleagues Re-Launch Congressional Hockey Caucus",2023-06-09,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), along with Congressmen Mike Quigley (IL-05), Larry Bucshon (IN-08) and Brian Higgins (NY-26), announced the Congressional Hockey Caucus has been re-launched for the 118th Congress. The Congressional Hockey Caucus serves as a bipartisan forum for members of Congress to come together, exchange ideas, and collaborate on matters related to hockey's cultural, social, and economic significance. Further, the Caucus will look to address policy matters impacting the hockey community. “Hockey is more than just a game, it’s a major part of our way of life in northern Minnesota,” saidCongressman Stauber. “As a former hockey player, I know that on the ice is where kids learn the values of sportsmanship and teamwork, as well as the importance of physical fitness. I look forward to promoting what I believe is America’s pastime in Congress.” “Hockey has played an important role in my life and the lives of so many around the world,” said Congressman Quigley. “To this day, I still make a point to get on the ice every Saturday morning. I’m excited to continue the Hockey Caucus’s work this Congress to spread awareness about the benefits of playing hockey and ensure the sport is accessibile to all who want to play it.” “I am proud to join my colleagues Representatives Stauber, Quigley, and Higgins in re-launching the Congressional Hockey Caucus. Having coached Hockey in Evansville for many years, I know firsthand the dedication and commitment it takes to excel and thrive in this sport and the benefits it yields for those who participate. I look forward to continuing to bring awareness to this sport,” said Dr. Bucshon. Congressman Higgins said, “As a kid, there was nothing better than lacing up my skates and hitting the ice with friends. Hockey provides valuable lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and goal setting. As home to the Buffalo Sabres and an active youth hockey community, in Western New York we also recognize the role hockey plays in the local economy. Through the bipartisan Hockey Caucus, we work to grow youth access to hockey and explore ways to enrich communities through the sport.” “At the National Hockey League (NHL) we believe that hockey is for everyone, and that’s why we commend the launch of the Congressional Hockey Caucus and its objective to promote and support the growth of the game of hockey,” said CommissionerGary Bettman. “We look forward to collaborating with members of the caucus to leverage the power of hockey as a force for good by bringing greater awareness of the sport to communities across America.” “The positive impact of hockey on communities and people who are actively involved with the game in America continues to grow year over year,” said NHLPA Executive Director, Marty Walsh. “The re-launch of the Congressional Hockey Caucus is fantastic for the continued growth of the sport, and we are excited to work with the members of the caucus to further the reach that our game has on people and places all over the country.” “We are thrilled to have a group like the Congressional Hockey Caucus that is passionate about our sport and the values it brings to communities across America,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “The re-launch of the Caucus certainly contributes to the positive momentum our sport enjoys. We’re thankful for the leadership of Congressmen Stauber, Quigley, Buschon and Higgins and look forward to engaging with them to promote hockey in our country.” ""The Premier Hockey Federation (PHF) and Congressional Hockey Caucus are both committed to advancing our sport and improving accessibility at all levels, including professional women's hockey where the momentum is significant,"" said Reagan Carey, PHF Commissioner. ""The PHF is proud to engage with leaders who recognize teamwork as a fundamental part of hockey and driving force to grow the game faster."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-receives-award-down-syndrome-research-advocacy,Stauber Receives Award for Down Syndrome Research Advocacy,2023-06-08,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) announced he has been awarded the 2023 Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Awardee from the Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GLOBAL) for his work in Congress advocating on behalf of research on Down syndrome. “It’s a great honor to receive the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award,” said Congressman Stauber. “My third son Isaac happened to be born with Down syndrome. Just over 21 years ago, this precious boy was born into our family, and none of us would change a thing. There is so much value that Isaac - and every person like him - brings into this world. We are forever grateful for the joy he brings us and for the many lessons he teaches us each day. As Isaac’s father, I personally know that advocating for and supporting more medical research for those living with Down syndrome is absolutely necessary. Not only does this research save lives, but it also dramatically improves the health outcomes of those living with Down syndrome and allows for these individuals to share their special talents and contributions with the rest of the world. I will always be an advocate for Down syndrome research funding in the House.” ""At GLOBAL we are working hard every day to elongate life and improve health outcomes for our loved ones with Down syndrome. It is because of advocates like Congressman Stauber that we've increased essential funding into life-saving research and medical care. It was our honor to recognize him for his outstanding contributions to our community and commitment to continued progress,"" said Michelle Sie Whitten, GLOBAL Co-Founder, President, and CEO. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-hosts-first-session-of-2023-young-women-s-leadership-program,Emmer Hosts First Session of 2023 Young Women's Leadership Program,2023-06-06,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"St. Cloud, M.N. – Yesterday, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) hosted the first session of the 2023 Young Women’s Leadership Program (YWLP) at the St. Cloud Police Department. Since 2016, Congressman Emmer’s office has hosted the YWLP with the goal of connecting high-school-aged female students in the Sixth Congressional District with local women leaders for guidance and mentorship. The first session was focused on leading and operating as a team under pressure and featured remarks from: Commander Lori Ellering, St. Cloud Police Department Officer Debora Ocloo, St. Cloud Police Department Officer Lauren Weisser, St. Cloud Police Department Fire Chief Judy Thill, Inver Grove Heights Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Jenell Wood, Richfield Fire Department Marcia Anderson, EMT at M Health Fairview and Minnesota Ambulance Association Star of Life Recipient (Retired) Rose Pelzel, America’s first female EMT and American Ambulance Association Star of Life Recipient (Retired) “We are excited to kick off this year’s Young Women’s Leadership Program in St. Cloud. The program focused on helping students lead in crises and work with a team, all useful skills for the classroom, extracurriculars, and future careers,” Emmer said. “Thanks to our guests for their involvement in this outstanding program and to the St. Cloud Police Department for hosting,” Emmer concluded. This was the first of three sessions that will take place during the 2023 Young Women’s Leadership Program. Future topics include financial literacy and mental health management. You can read more about the Young Women’s Leadership Program here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-statement-biden-administrations-latest-pro-china-anti-jobs-anti,"Stauber Statement on the Biden Administration’s Latest Pro-China, Anti-Jobs, Anti-American Mining Action",2023-06-06,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement on the Biden Administration revoking a Clean Water Act permit for the NewRange project. “The Biden Administration continues their assault on northern Minnesota and our way of life. We are on the cusp of delivering for the world and our country an ethically and responsibly sourced supply of these greatly needed critical minerals for our everyday life. Again today, this activist administration took another step toward killing yet another domestic mining project in the largest copper nickel find in the world. The activists in Washington took away a Clean Water Act permit, previously granted by experts at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and in essence gave a gift to the Chinese Communist Party. Because of this, America will be more reliant on China, which has no environmental or labor standards and uses minerals sourced by child labor. “Today’s political decision highlights the need for serious permitting reform to limit frivolous lawsuits and modernize the Clean Water Act permitting process. I will continue to lead in this fight for this project and many others and to ensure my constituents’ bright future becomes a reality for northern Minnesota. We need to end Joe Biden’s mining policy of ‘anywhere but America, any worker but American.’ The United States can be critical mineral dominant while having a clean environment. Let’s make this a reality.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-bill-improve-air-travel-safety-signed-law,Stauber Bill to Improve Air Travel Safety Signed into Law,2023-06-05,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"On Saturday, Congressman Pete Stauber’s (MN-08) NOTAM Improvement Act was signed into law. The bill improves the Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) system that pilots rely on for safety alerts during flights. The Senate version was introduced and championed by Senator Amy Klobuchar. “I am pleased that the NOTAM Improvement Act has been signed into law by the President,” said Congressman Stauber. “This bill is critical to improving the safety of our skies for pilots and passengers by bringing experts from across the air travel industry together to improve the NOTAM system. We must avoid another system crash like the one in January that grounded all domestic air traffic for the first time since 9/11, and this bill is a crucial first step.” “By upgrading and modernizing the FAA’s NOTAM system, this new law will improve aviation safety and prevent system outages from derailing travel,” said Senator Klobuchar. “Travelers in the United States deserve safe and dependable air travel service, not nationwide ground stops caused by system failures like we saw earlier this year. That’s why as co-chair of the Senate Travel and Tourism Caucus, I’m focused on strengthening our air travel infrastructure.” This new law establishes a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) taskforce to determine what improvements should be made to the NOTAM system, which alerts pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a location that could affect the safety of the flight. This includes updates to ensure the stability, resiliency, and cybersecurity of the NOTAM computer system. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-statement-secretary-haalands-visit-minnesota,Stauber Statement on Secretary Haaland's Visit to Minnesota,2023-06-03,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement on Interior Secretary Deb Haaland's visit this weekend to Minnesota. “Secretary Haaland is yet again in Minnesota and she has yet to see our mineral wealth and hear about how it can help secure America’s domestic supply chains. While I am sure she enjoyed her visit to an urban park in St. Paul last time she was here, one would think this time she could also take the time to learn more about the resources we have to offer in Northern Minnesota. I have yet again asked Secretary Haaland to come and visit the Iron Range while she’s in Minnesota to learn about the critical minerals we have. Should she decline or not respond again, it will once again prove that unelected bureaucrats in Washington couldn't care less about the devastating and politically charged decisions they put forward that do so much damage to the future of our communities, my constituents and their families.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/6/congresswoman-fischbach-joins-bipartisan-opposition-to-discriminatory-brazilian-tariffs-on-american-ethanol,Congresswoman Fischbach Joins Bipartisan Opposition to Discriminatory Brazilian Tariffs on American Ethanol,2023-06-01,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), a member of the Ways and Means Committee, joined a bipartisan group of Members of Congress to urge the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs imposed on American ethanol by Brazil. In a letter, signed by 21 members, Rep. Fischbach and her colleagues highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. The Members wrote in part, ""We believe the double layer issue of a tariff imbalance and an impenetrable RenovaBio is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk. We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies. Further, if Brazil continues with its unfair treatment of American ethanol, we stand ready to work with you to consider measures that protect U.S. farmers and biofuels producers and counter these unfair trade practices."" In addition to Rep. Fischbach, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL), Mark Alford (R-MO), Don Bacon (R-NE), James Baird (R-IN), Mike Bost (R-IL), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Angie Craig (D-MN), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Mike Flood (R-NE), Bill Foster (D-IL), Sam Graves (R-MO), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Dan Kildee (D-MI), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Adrian Smith (R-NE), and Victoria Spartz (R-IN). The full text of the letter can be read here and below. The Honorable Katherine Tai United States Trade Representative 600 17th St NW Washington, DC 20508 Dear Ambassador Tai: We write to raise a critical international trade issue that is having a detrimental impact on the American agricultural economy.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/6/fischbach-smith-lead-call-for-formal-dispute-consultations-to-hold-mexico-accountable-under-usmca,"Fischbach, Smith Lead Call for Formal Dispute Consultations to Hold Mexico Accountable Under USMCA",2023-06-01,2023,2023-06,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Fischbach (R-MN) and Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, led 62 of their colleagues in a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Katherine Tai. In the letter, the Members call on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools USTR has under United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to hold Mexico accountable to its commitments by proceeding with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. The letter, which you can view here, states:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:08:25Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/5/rep-fischbach-votes-no-on-h-r-3746,Rep. Fischbach Votes No on H.R. 3746,2023-05-31,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, the House passed H.R. 3746, the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Congresswoman Fischbach voted against the bill. ""While I believe Speaker McCarthy did the best he could in negotiations, this agreement is further proof that President Biden and Democrats are unwilling to admit the damage their spending has caused for Americans. My constituents told me loud and clear they want to see us take more meaningful steps to get our fiscal house in order,"" said Congresswoman Fischbach. ""I will continue to fight for substantive and lasting changes to limit government spending and hold this Administration accountable during the upcoming appropriations process."" H.R. 3746 passed 314-117 and is now on its way to the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-votes-enact-spending-cuts-raise-debt-ceiling,"Stauber Votes to Enact Spending Cuts, Raise the Debt Ceiling",2023-05-31,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released this statement following his vote to raise the debt ceiling while enacting spending cuts. “Washington needs to rein in its spending and get our deficit and debt under control. As a conservative, do I think this package is perfect? No, I would much rather have the Limit, Save, Grow Act signed into law. But the realities of governing right now are that a deal with spending cuts is better than no spending cuts at all. President Biden and the Democrat controlled Senate wanted both a ‘clean’ debt ceiling increase along with other tax increases, but our House Republican majority forced them to cut spending without raising taxes. This is a win for taxpayers. “This bill is a first step in the right direction. There are several conservative wins in this package- it claws back unspent COVID funding, institutes that new regulations must be paid for, slashes funding to hire new IRS agents, modernizes the onerous permitting process for infrastructure, energy and mining projects, and protects Veterans’ benefits. Importantly, additional work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents will help our economy and re-establish the dignity of work. The fight to rein in out-of-control spending is far from over, we’re just getting started.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-minnesota-republicans-call-for-investigation-into-taxpayer-funded-university-internship-program,"Emmer, Minnesota Republicans Call for Investigation into Taxpayer-Funded University Internship Program",2023-05-26,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and House Education and the Workforce Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development Chairman Burgess Owens (UT-04) joined a letter led by Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Dr. Miguel Cardona and Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Catherine Lhamon expressing concern about recent reports of discrimination within an undergraduate internship program at the University of Minnesota open to only non-white applicants. The letter outlines Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which expressly prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. In part, the letter reads: “The University’s decision to offer this program only to Students of Color and Native Americans was in clear violation of this law and others that were put in place to protect all students from this form of discrimination. Discrimination under the guise of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is still discrimination, and it is reprehensible that the University of Minnesota has fostered this type of learning environment.” “It is illegal and flat-out wrong for the University of Minnesota to authorize an internship program that explicitly excludes students of certain races,” said Majority Whip Emmer. “While, after public backlash, the U of M will now allow students of all races to apply, we are deeply concerned that this happened in the first place. We look forward to the results of the Department of Education’s investigation.” “As a University of Minnesota alumnus, I find it unacceptable that our state’s leading institution of higher education has deprived students of prestigious educational opportunities because of their skin color,” said Rep. Finstad. “It is extremely concerning that the University, which operates on taxpayer dollars, would create racial barriers to programs and resources by excluding qualified students because they don’t fit a certain demographic, which is why my colleagues and I are urging the Department of Education to take immediate action to ensure these discriminatory practices do not continue.” “The University of Minnesota’s MSROP, which lists its top eligibility requirement for the program as being able to ‘identify as a Student of Color or Native American’ is a clear violation of the U.S. Education Department’s laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin,” said Rep. Fischbach (MN-07). “I sincerely hope the Secretary of Education takes this matter seriously and exercises its authority to stop such a requirement and ensure it does not continue in Minnesota or anywhere else in the country.” “The University of Minnesota has become so woke they have circled back around to discrimination,” said Rep. Stauber (MN-08). “As a taxpayer-funded institution, this is unacceptable and inexcusable. That’s why I joined Rep. Finstad and the Minnesota Republican House delegation to demand Secretary Cardona look into this program and ensure all students at UMN are protected against discrimination.” “I grew up in the Jim Crow South during the time of segregation, the KKK, and institutional discrimination, so I'm personally disgusted to see this blatant racism from the University of Minnesota,"" said Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development Chairman Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04). ""Every American should be appalled that their taxpayer dollars support this federally-funded institution's segregationist practice that denies educational opportunities to students because of their skin color.” Full text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/5/supreme-court-sides-with-farmers-in-wotus-case,Supreme Court Sides with Farmers in WOTUS Case,2023-05-26,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously sided with the Sacketts in the Sackett v. EPA case, limiting the Environmental Protection Agency's ability to regulate certain bodies of water and confirming that President Biden’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule is unconstitutional government overreach. “Minnesotans have a long history of protecting the waters in our state,” said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. “This Supreme Court ruling provides certainty for farmers that the water seasonally flooding their fields will not become regulated by the federal government, it will also eliminate costly and time-consuming duplicative paperwork, allowing housing, energy, and infrastructure projects to move forward more efficiently, all while ensuring that the state of Minnesota can continue its proud tradition of protecting our waters.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-condemns-biden-administration-rule-punishing-middle-class-homebuyers,Emmer Condemns Biden Administration Rule Punishing Middle-Class Homebuyers,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today at a House Financial Services Committee markup session, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) condemned the Biden administration’s recently-implemented unilateral change to mortgage prices that forces high-credit homebuyers to pay more every month to subsidize the loans of risky borrowers. In January 2023, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced a set of mandated changes to the Loan Level Pricing Adjustments (LLPAs), which are one-time, upfront fees charged to lenders when Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, both government-sponsored enterprises, purchase their loans. LLPAs get passed on from lenders to the borrowers in the form of higher interest rates. The January changes, which went into effect May 1, both increased fees for half of all borrowers with credit scores over 680 while decreasing fees for 90% of those under 680, regardless of how much of a down payment they made or if they qualify as low income. Two-thirds of all Americans have a credit score of 680 or higher. Earlier this month, a poll of over 6,000 Sixth District constituents revealed that 93 percent disagreed with the Biden administration’s credit score redistribution plan. Emmer serves as an original cosponsor of Representative Warren Davidson’s (OH-08) Middle Class Borrower Protection Act. The bill repeals the recent FHFA changes to mortgage pricing, it institutes a freeze on any mortgage pricing changes pending a review by the Government Accountability Office, and makes future mortgage pricing changes accountable to the American people by requiring a public notice and comment period. Emmer’s remarks are available to watch here. A transcript is available below: Congressman Emmer: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Last week, my office actually surveyed our constituents from the Sixth Congressional District of Minnesota regarding the Biden Administration's socialist and unilateral mortgage pricing change that went into effect this month. Of the 6,000 results - and this is rural America - of the 6,000 results, 93% disagree with this Administration's credit score redistribution plan. Fundamentally, it is wrong to support those with a history of financial irresponsibility by punishing Americans who have worked diligently to earn a high credit score. And the numbers don't lie. The Federal Housing Finance Agency’s changes both increased fees for half of all borrowers with FICO scores over 680 while decreasing fees for 90% of those with scores under 680, regardless of how much of a down payment they made or if they qualify as low income. The FHFA tells us that it had to make these changes based on its capital rule. My constituents in Minnesota know that any capital rule that tells people the safer thing to do is to borrow beyond their means is a bad one that fundamentally needs to be rethought. So, whichever way this Administration wants to present this flawed policy to the American people, this ploy to politicize home ownership, to the detriment of those who set themselves up for success, poses a safety and soundness concern to the housing market and it puts taxpayers at risk. Homeownership in this country is becoming a pipe dream, frankly, especially for younger generations. Young Americans are faced with the results of irresponsible government decisions, massive spending massive inflation and steep rate hikes. My constituents rightly are angry about this mortgage pricing change. It's a gross display of yet another unilateral bureaucrat decision here in Washington, D.C. with far-reaching impacts on access to homeownership just to prop up a socialist political agenda. I would hope the sharp public criticism of this assault on the safety and soundness of our housing market and on access to homeownership is evidence enough that socialism will never prevail and bureaucratic abuses like this are met with strong resistance and demands for accountability. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of Mr. Davidson's legislation, the Middle Class Borrower Protection Act. This bill repeals the recent FHFA change to mortgage pricing, it institutes a freeze on any mortgage pricing changes pending a review by the Government Accountability Office, and it makes future mortgage pricing changes subject to the standard public notice and comment period. This will hold the FHFA accountable to the American people – and by the way, the FHFA is supposed to be working for the American people, not the other way around – and prevent it from ever attempting to enact a credit score redistribution plan again to politicize homeownership. I encourage my colleagues on this committee to support its passage in this markup. And I yield to my colleague, Mr. Davidson from Ohio. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-on-governor-walz-s-attack-on-faith-based-education,Emmer Statement on Governor Walz's Attack on Faith-Based Education,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) issued the following statement: ""Another casualty of this year’s state legislative session? First Amendment freedoms. Governor Walz is now going after religious colleges and universities like Crown College in Saint Bonifacius. By stripping these schools’ ability to provide free on-campus college credits to high school students, kids and families across Minnesota will suffer. We will not sit on the sidelines while radicals in Saint Paul try to take away our religious freedoms and educational opportunities."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-tours-carver-county-highway-212,Emmer Tours Carver County Highway 212,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Cologne, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer met with Carver County officials to tour the recently completed Phase 1 of the U.S. 212 Rural Freight Mobility and Safety Project and discuss construction plans for Phase 2. “Investments in local transportation infrastructure keep Minnesotans and our state’s economy moving forward,” Emmer said. “Our office was proud to support funding for this important project. We were pleased to see progress being made on this essential infrastructure and look forward to its completion,” Emmer concluded. Congressman Emmer has long been a champion of local infrastructure projects and submitted Community Project Funding requests in FY2022 and FY2023 to support the US Highway 212 expansion, resulting in more than $6.5 million in Federal funding for the initiative. Congressman Emmer attended the Carver County Highway 212 groundbreaking ceremony in April of 2021 and visited again in August of 2021 to observe the progress. Today, the Congressman toured the completed Phase 1 of the project with members of the Carver County Public Works Department and discussed the construction plans for Phase 2. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/5/congress-takes-first-step-to-end-fentanyl-epidemic,Congress Takes First Step to End Fentanyl Epidemic,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, the House passed H.R. 467, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act or the HALT Fentanyl Act. This legislation would make the currently temporary Schedule I category for fentanyl, or anything mixed with it, permanent. It would supply law enforcement with the tools needed to keep these dangerous drugs off the streets. And, it would support research efforts to understand the effects of fentanyl-related substances on people's health. ""Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 - 49. It affects every income level in every demographic in every corner of the country. Even in Minnesota's rural and relatively safe 7th District, one of the top issues I hear from police officers is about the dire need to get a handle on fentanyl overdoses,"" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""It is a heartbreaking epidemic that must be stopped. I am proud of the House for passing the HALT Fentanyl Act and taking an important first step towards ending this epidemic, giving law enforcement tools they need to keep illegal and deadly fentanyl, and anything mixed with it, off the street."" This bill passed 289-133 and is on its way to the Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-statement-wotus-victory-rural-america,Stauber Statement on WOTUS Victory for Rural America,2023-05-25,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Pete Stauber released the following statement following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Sackett v EPA. “The Supreme Court’s ruling is great news for rural America. By reining in the overreaching WOTUS rule, the Sackett decision will benefit America’s farmers, small businesses, miners and property owners. I've been working on this issue on behalf of rural Minnesota for quite some time and am very pleased with this unanimous decision. It’s clear that the Biden Administration should withdraw their WOTUS rule. We cannot allow unaccountable bureaucrats to make important decisions that negatively impact the American people.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-emmer-tours-waconia-area-food-shelf,Congressman Emmer Tours Waconia Area Food Shelf,2023-05-19,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Waconia, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) toured the Gather and Grow, Waconia United Food Shelf and met with their Executive Director, Angie Cruzen. “As Minnesotans face double-digit price increases at the grocery store, we are grateful to organizations like Gather and Grow who have stepped up to support those in need,” Emmer said. “The incredible work being done at Gather and Grow goes beyond simple food assistance. The talented staff here in Waconia also provide employment and budgeting services, nutrition classes and life coaching, and mental health support. We are grateful to have such a capable and comprehensive organization here in the Sixth District,” Emmer concluded. Gather and Grow, Waconia United Food Shelf opened in July of 2003 and aims to provide “hand-ups” not “handouts” to clients by providing food, personal care items, employment and budgeting services, nutrition education and life coaching, and mental health support to community members in Waconia, New Germany, Victoria, Cologne, and St. Bonifacius. Angie Cruzen, Executive Director of Gather and Grow participated in one of Emmer’s Farm Bill listening sessions in April to share her unique perspective on the federal nutrition programs included in the Farm Bill. The city of Waconia and Gather and Grow were incorporated as part of Minnesota’s Sixth Congressional District in 2023. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-hosts-minnesota-manufacturing-roundtable,Emmer Hosts Minnesota Manufacturing Roundtable,2023-05-19,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Chaska, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) hosted a roundtable with more than a dozen Minnesota manufacturing leaders to discuss the important role Minnesota’s manufacturers play in the state’s economy. The event was held at McLaughlin Gormley King Company (MGK) in Chaska, and included a tour of their facility. “Today we celebrated the work and success of Minnesota manufacturers. If we are to remain a global economic superpower, Minnesota and American manufacturing must thrive and not be held back by unnecessary red tape,” Congressman Emmer said. “It was a pleasure to tour MGK and speak with leaders from across the industry about the work we are doing at the federal level to support our hardworking manufacturers,” Emmer concluded. Emmer has been a longtime advocate on behalf of Minnesota’s manufacturing industry. In the 117th Congress, he introduced the bipartisan Investing in American Workers Act, which incentivizes businesses to invest in their employees by providing a business-related tax credit for employers who increase their spending on workforce development training. Congressman Emmer also cosponsored the CHANCE in TECH Act, which passed in the 117th Congress and creates pathways for individuals with little or no experience to enter the tech field. He was also instrumental in the passage of the Lower Energy Costs Act in the 118th Congress, which includes important permitting reforms aimed at boosting American manufacturing. MGK Manufacturing was founded in 1901 and currently produces and sells various aerosols, sprays, and repellents, including the well-known insecticide, Evergreen. Participants in the roundtable discussion included representatives from the National Association of Manufacturers, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, Southwest Metro Chamber of Commerce, MGK, Cardinal Glass Industries, General Mills, Banner Engineering Corp., The Toro Company, Donaldson Company Inc., C.H. Robinson, Ecolab Inc., Stratasys Inc., Schwan’s Company, Winnebago Industries, and Roberts Automatic Products, Inc. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-hosts-youth-mental-health-roundtable,Emmer Hosts Youth Mental Health Roundtable,2023-05-19,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Victoria, M.N. – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06) hosted a roundtable with eight mental health providers and advocates to discuss the mental health crisis impacting Minnesota’s children and young adults. “Caring for our kids’ mental health has become more urgent than ever before. If not addressed properly, will lead to mental health struggles as adults,” Emmer said. “Between the long-term effects from COVID lockdowns, like isolation and developmental delays, and the creeping threat of social media platforms like TikTok, it is especially important to bring our community together to discuss solutions to this crisis,” Emmer concluded. Young people have been especially vulnerable to mental health concerns. A survey published in February by the CDC shows that in 2021, 30 percent of teenage girls reported seriously considered suicide. Additionally, they found that 42 percent of high school students reported experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness over the past year, a fifty percent increase from 2011. Earlier this year, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called young people’s mental health challenges the “crisis of our time.” Emmer has been a longtime advocate for youth mental health. Last year, he sent a letter to Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona asking for more information on the coordination, funding and implementation of mental health programs in schools. Emmer also co-sponsored the Parents Bill of Rights Act, legislation designed to create transparency in the classroom and give parents a voice in their children’s education. The Parents Bill of Rights Act passed the House of Representatives with Emmer’s support in March. The roundtable was attended by representatives from Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, Health Partners, Centracare, Nexus Family Health and Sophie’s Squad. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-and-soto-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-provide-regulatory-clarity-for-digital-assets,Emmer and Soto Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Provide Regulatory Clarity for Digital Assets,2023-05-18,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) and Representative Darren Soto (FL-09) announced the introduction of their bipartisan Securities Clarity Act. The bill will provide clarity to the regulatory classification of digital assets, providing market certainty for innovators and clear jurisdictional boundaries for regulators. Currently, existing securities law does not distinguish between an asset and the securities contract it may or may not be part of. Many cryptocurrencies may initially be issued as part of a securities contract, but, once the project is fully developed and decentralized, the token could fall under a different classification, such as a commodity. Without a distinction between the asset and the securities contract, token projects that must raise capital to fund development in the early stages will not be able to move out of the securities framework once the project is decentralized, preventing these tokens from being used for their utility, which will only harm token holders. The Securities Clarity Act offers a key distinction that will enable crypto projects to reach their full potential in a compliant way, enabling the United States to compete globally in this next iteration of the internet. This legislation is crucial to ensuring that domestic innovation thrives, and that the United States remains globally competitive. Emmer said, “So long as we lack a clear definition under the law for what is a commodity and what is a security, American innovation will suffer.” “Entrepreneurs need to be able to accurately calculate risk to create new investment opportunities and grow our economy. The Securities Clarity Act will help provide these answers and allow American investors to fully participate in this exciting technology without sacrificing consumer protections. We need the United States to lead in the next iteration of the internet,” Emmer concluded. Rep. Soto said, “Blockchain technology contributes to our nation’s economy by allowing innovation to grow. Congress is working to protect those who invest in this technology with the Securities Clarity Act. This bill will add critical definition and jurisdiction to create certainty for a strong digital asset market in the United States. This is an important step in maximizing the potential of virtual currencies for the U.S. economy, all while protecting customers and the financial well-being of investors."" “This is the smartest approach we have seen to provide clarity about how securities law applies to digital assets. We applaud Rep. Emmer for his continued leadership on policy affecting cryptocurrency,” said Jerry Brito, Executive Director of Coin Center. ""As interest in digital assets grows, industry needs clear rules of the road so that companies can offer products that consumers want while maintaining consumer protections. Blockchain Association would like to thank Representatives Emmer and Soto for their continued work to do just that. The Securities Clarity Act would go a long way towards providing regulatory clarity for the securities treatment of digital assets and we are proud to support its reintroduction,"" said Kristin Smith, CEO of Blockchain Association. ""Establishing a predictable legal environment for tokens is one of the most pressing issues facing the digital asset marketplace today. The Securities Clarity Act is crucial legislation that provides much needed certainty for investors, consumers, and businesses by reaffirming the difference between an investment contract and digital assets sold or transferred under the terms of an investment contract,"" said Perianne Boring, Founder and CEO of the Chamber of Digital Commerce. “The Chamber of Digital Commerce commends Congressman Emmer for introducing the Securities Clarity Act, which asserts U.S. leadership in the global digital asset marketplace and spurs competition and innovation for the blockchain technology industry.” Sheila Warren, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation, said, “The lack of clarity on the definition of a digital asset security continues to be a major challenge for companies operating in the United States. We commend Rep. Tom Emmer and Rep Darren Soto for their commitment to American innovation with the reintroduction of this important bipartisan legislation, which makes clear the distinction between an investment contract and the underlying asset or token.” Specifically, the legislation specifies that any asset sold as the object of an investment contract, now defined as an “investment contract asset,” is distinct from the securities offering it was a part of. This definition is technology-neutral and would apply to all assets sold or offered that would only be considered a “security” because of their inclusion in an investment contract. Emmer first introduced the Securities Clarity Act in 2020. This legislation has support from Coin Center, Blockchain Association, Chamber of Digital Commerce, and the Crypto Council for Innovation. The legislation is available in full here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/5/rep-fischbach-on-the-introduction-of-the-save-act,Rep. Fischbach on the introduction of the SAVE Act,2023-05-18,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - This week, Congresswoman Fischbach joined a bicameral, bipartisan group introducing the Safeguarding American Value-Added Exports (SAVE) Act. ""For years, the European Union has abused geographical indicators as a non-tariff trade barrier, limiting U.S. agriculture export opportunities simply because they rely on using common food names that have been established for decades,"" said Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-MN). ""The SAVE Act protects common names to ensure U.S. agriculture products can be sold worldwide. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation that will help restore market access."" “Requiring U.S. producers to change the names of their food is confusing for consumers and costly to producers and manufacturers,” said Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD). “The SAVE Act ensures American producers retain vital access to foreign markets in a time that may be more critical than ever.” “Monopolizing common food names could have major ramifications on American producers and our food supply chain,” said Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA). “This bipartisan bill will protect American goods from unfair trading practices, that could minimize access to global markets and increase costs for consumers.” “American producers face barriers in getting their agricultural products to global consumers due to unreasonable trade restrictions on common, descriptive terms,” said Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA). “I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation that would empower the United States Trade Representative and Secretary of Agriculture to negotiate fairer trade agreements that give American producers equal footing in these markets. While geographical indicators are important to maintaining the character, quality, and pride of products from our community, we can continue to protect those markers without allowing discrimination against American products.” “By exploiting valid geographical indication protections, global competitors have for decades tried to limit competition, block imports, and restrict American-made products from being able to use common food and beverage names,” said Sen. John Thune (R-SD). “I’m proud to lead this effort in the Senate to help level the playing field for U.S. producers by ensuring they can use common food names and preserve and expand foreign market access for their products.” “Our Made in Wisconsin agricultural and food products are rightfully world-renowned for their quality. But, when foreign countries penalize our producers for using common names like parmesan or cheddar, their unfair trade practices stunt the growth of Made in Wisconsin businesses on the international market,” said Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). “That’s why I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation that ensures Wisconsin producers and farmers can continue to compete internationally, grow their businesses and keep Wisconsin on the map around the world.” “If the EU were to have it their way, Americans would no longer be able to drink champagne while eating gouda and prosciutto on crackers here in America,” said Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS). “While this may at first seem like a small attack on the hors d’oeuvres industry, the consequences of the EU getting their way would go well beyond the charcuterie board. They would close off the global market to new entrants and create trade barriers to reduce competition, control prices and create mass consumer confusion. The SAVE Act will ensure that the U.S. government fights back against the EU’s campaign to ban U.S. market exports.” This legislation has the support of key agricultural groups: ""Throughout the entire dairy supply chain,” explained Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of National Milk Producers Federation. “The dairy producer community thanks Senators Thune and Baldwin and Representatives Johnson, Costa, Fischbach and Panetta for their introduction of the bipartisan SAVE Act today. This legislation will raise the ambition of the U.S. government to preserve the rights of U.S. dairy producers to continue using cheese names long established as generic. We look forward to continuing to work with USDA, USTR and our allies in American agriculture to ensure that U.S. dairy farmers and cooperatives can compete on a level playing field around the world.” “The misuse of geographical indications has been hurting U.S. dairy for years, and the European Union continues its efforts to monopolize common cheese names like parmesan and feta,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of U.S. Dairy Export Council. “American dairy exporters welcome the introduction of the bipartisan, bicameral SAVE Act today that will direct the U.S. government to take decisive action to counter the EU’s destructive campaign. This new emphasis on protecting common names is a much-needed step in the right direction to ensure that our producers can sell their products in markets around the world.” “The lack of strong action by previous administrations has allowed the European Union to misuse and abuse its geographical indications, hurting U.S. exporters in several markets,” said Jaime Castaneda, Executive Director of Consortium for Common Food Names. “This new emphasis on protecting common names is a much-needed step in the right direction to ensure that our producers can sell their products in markets around the world. For years, the European Union has been using illegitimate GIs to boost its own producers at the expense of others, putting a tremendous political priority on giving European companies a leg up over producers in the U.S. and other countries,” continued Castaneda. “It is time that our government takes a more proactive approach to tackling this challenge so that we can turn the tide to stand up for food and beverage producers relying on common names.” “NASDA supports the SAVE Act which would retain the use of long-held generic food names and protects U.S. food, beverage, and agricultural products from foreign competitors and the restriction of U.S. trade,” National Association of State Departments of Agriculture CEO Ted McKinney said. “I would like to thank Senators Thune and Baldwin and Representatives Johnson, Costa, Fischbach and Panetta for their leadership in introducing the SAVE Act today,” said Chuck Conner, president and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. “As Congress begins work on the 2023 farm bill, we strongly urge inclusion of this language in the final package. Doing so is essential to helping America’s farmers and their co-ops remain competitive in markets around the globe.” “This legislation will bolster our government’s efforts to protect the rights of U.S. wineries to use traditional terms and generic winegrape varietal names and represents an important step in expanding access for U.S. wines to key markets around the world,"" said a representative from the Wine Institute.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-leads-bipartisan-legislation-strengthen-workplace-rights-public-safety,Stauber Leads Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Workplace Rights of Public Safety Officers,2023-05-18,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"During National Police Week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) re-introduced the bipartisan Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act along with Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-08) to ensure labor rights to all public safety officers. Specifically, this legislation will allow public safety officers to form a labor union, collectively bargain for hours and wages, and provide resolution mechanisms for impasses during negotiations. “As a former police officer who started a union in Duluth, Minnesota, I know how vital labor rights are for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day in service to our communities,” said Congressman Stauber. “These past couple of years have been especially difficult for our public safety officers, so it’s more important than ever before to ensure they have a voice in the workplace. That's why on this National Police Week, I am proud partner with twelve of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to strengthen the workplace rights of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel.” “All workers, including police officers, firefighters and EMS workers, should be able to join a union and bargain for better wages and safer working conditions,” said Congressman Kildee. “I am proud to work with Republicans and Democrats to expand collective bargaining rights for public safety officers.” National President of the Fraternal Order of Police Patrick Yoes made the following statement in support of this legislation, “The men and women in our nation’s police and fire departments put their lives on the line every day to protect our streets and neighborhoods and they have the right to be heard on workplace issues that affect them and their families. We applaud Congressmen Stauber and Kildee for introducing the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act. This bill is a top priority for the FOP, which would recognize the fundamental right of public safety officers to bargaining collectively.” Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations, added, “Law enforcement officers across the country, who put their lives on the line each day to protect us all, are being denied the basic American rights of collective bargaining for fair compensation and safer working conditions. We know that public safety is best protected through effective partnerships between first responders on the front line and the agencies that employ them. The Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act will ensure that officers can meet with local officials to discuss how they do their jobs and how best to protect the public. We stand with Congressmen Stauber and Kildee in support of this important bill and thank them for their efforts on behalf of America’s law enforcement community.” Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters, said, “Today, tens of thousands of fire fighters and EMS personnel nationwide lack a collective voice with their employer to advocate for themselves, their families, and the communities they took an oath to protect. When fire fighters are at the table, we use our voice to speak out for health and safety improvements that save lives. The IAFF proudly endorses the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act of 2023. We urge Congress to pass this common sense, bipartisan legislation and protect the basic labor rights of American workers. If you are willing to risk your life for others, you deserve a seat at the negotiating table.” The following bipartisan group of Representatives are original co-sponsors of the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act: Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Chris Smith (R-NJ), Mike Bost (R-IL), Kathy Manning (D-NC), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), Tom Kean (R-NJ), Don Bacon (R-NE), Angie Craig (D-MN), Dean Phillips (D-MN), Mike Levin (D-CA), and Susie Lee (D-NV). Full text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-mining-bills-pass-natural-resources-committee-votes-head-house-floor,"Stauber Mining Bills Pass Natural Resources Committee Votes, Head to House Floor",2023-05-17,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, two of Congressman Pete Stauber’s (MN-08) bills to support mining in Minnesota and overturn the Biden Administration’s mineral withdrawal of 225,000 acres from mining activity successfully passed through the House Natural Resources Committee. The bills, H.R. 3195, the Superior National Forest Restoration Act, and H.Con.Res.34, can now be considered for a vote by the full House of Representatives. “All options are on the table to overturn the Biden Administration’s mineral withdrawal and let miners mine in the district I represent,” said Congressman Stauber. “I have been working with my colleagues to build support for these proposals, including through hosting a field hearing on the Iron Range earlier this month, and I’m glad to see prompt movement through the Natural Resources Committee. I am thankful for the growing support on this issue, not only with my colleagues on the House Natural Resources Committee, but in Congress as a whole. More and more of us know that our mining way of life is at stake, and today we are one step closer to getting shovels in the ground to create jobs, secure our domestic supply chains and reestablish American mineral security.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/emmer-statement-on-the-expiration-of-title-42,Emmer Statement on the Expiration of Title 42,2023-05-12,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Tom Emmer,E000294,emmer.house.gov,emmer,https://emmer.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Emmer issued the following statement: ""Eight fentanyl overdoses in just twenty-four hours. A two-year-old dead of accidental exposure. These are the consequences of the border crisis in Minnesota in the last year alone. President Biden’s open-border policies have aided and abetted tragedy after tragedy."" ""Today is the first day since President Biden let Title 42 expire without a strategy to deal with the border. He has opened the floodgates to allow even more international criminals and illicit drugs into our country. We will not forget President Biden’s choice to turn his back on Minnesotans and to embolden cartels."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://fischbach.house.gov/2023/5/house-passes-secure-the-border-act,House Passes Secure the Border Act,2023-05-12,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Michelle Fischbach,F000470,fischbach.house.gov,fischbach,https://fischbach.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - This week, House Republicans passed H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act, fulfilling Republicans' promise to the American people to deliver a nation that is safe by securing the border and combatting illegal immigration. ""Because Democrats ignored the immigration crisis, some even pushing for open borders, this country is now facing a record amount of illegal immigrants, many of them known criminals, and a fentanyl overdose epidemic,"" said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). ""Every corner of America is facing the harmful effects of Democrat leadership's failure to secure our borders. Republicans are listening to the people of this country and are committed to securing our border and putting a stop to this immigration crisis. I am proud of the House for passing the strongest border security bill to date."" H.R. 2 will secure the border by forcing the Biden Administration to restart construction of the border wall, deploy technology to the northern and southern border, and increase the number of Border Patrol agents and provide bonus pay. It will combat illegal immigration by ending catch and release, strengthening and streamlining the asylum process, and strengthening current law to protect unaccompanied children from human trafficking.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases/stauber-introduces-superior-national-forest-restoration-act-holds-hearing,"Stauber Introduces Superior National Forest Restoration Act, Holds Hearing on Mineral Withdrawal",2023-05-11,2023,2023-05,Republican,House,MN,Pete Stauber,S001212,stauber.house.gov,stauber,https://stauber.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced the Superior National Forest Restoration Act and held a legislative hearing in the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee on overturning the Biden Administration’s mineral withdrawal of 225,000 acres of the Superior National Forest. “The Biden Administration’s mineral withdrawal in the Superior National Forest was a direct attack on our mining way of life in northern Minnesota,” said Congressman Stauber. “All options are on the table to overturn this withdrawal, including the Superior National Forest Restoration Act which would also reinstate mineral leases in the area granted prior to January 2021 and ensure timely reviews of Mine Plans of Operation. Today, in my Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, we heard from witnesses about the importance of mining in the region, and now it’s time for us to take action to get shovels in the ground.” Full text of the bill can be found here. More information about the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee hearing can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T23:55:44Z