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://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-bera-chabot-castro-and-wagner-urge-president-biden-promptly,"Reps. Bera, Chabot, Castro, and Wagner Urge President Biden to Promptly Nominate U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN",2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) and Steve Chabot (R-OH), Chair and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia, and Nonproliferation, and Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-TX) and Ann Wagner (R-MO), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to promptly nominate an individual to serve as the Ambassador of the United States to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

In the letter, the Members wrote:

""As your Administration continues to make progress on filling vacant ambassadorships, it is imperative that the United States harness the growing momentum in our relationship with Southeast Asia by naming an ambassador to ASEAN. Many of our most pressing challenges require solutions that draw on multilateral organizations like ASEAN. Naming an Ambassador will be crucial for our efforts to further cooperate with the group on our many shared priorities including countering COVID-19, strengthening trade and investment ties, enhancing regional security, and addressing environmental challenges.""

Click here or see below for the full letter.

The Honorable Joseph R. Biden

President of the United States

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, D.C. 20500

Dear Mr. President,

We urge you to promptly name a qualified individual to serve as the Ambassador of the United States to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The ten ASEAN nations are home to more than 662 million people and have a combined GDP of $3.2 trillion. By 2050, Southeast Asia is projected to become the world's fourth largest economy. The region's economic vibrancy, strategic location, and demographic diversity all make it a critical partner for the United States. Filling this important position—which has been vacant since January 2017—would enhance our ability to effectively work with ASEAN to further our shared interests in the region and beyond.

The United States has long supported ASEAN's central role to promoting prosperity, peace, and stability in the Indo-Pacific. As Members of Congress committed to advancing U.S. relationship with our Southeast Asian partners, we appreciate your Administration's continued prioritization of the region and the numerous high-level visits from U.S. officials since you took office. As your Administration continues to make progress on filling vacant ambassadorships, it is imperative that the United States harness the growing momentum in our relationship with Southeast Asia by naming an ambassador to ASEAN. Many of our most pressing challenges require solutions that draw on multilateral organizations like ASEAN. Naming an Ambassador will be crucial for our efforts to further cooperate with the group on our many shared priorities including countering COVID-19, strengthening trade and investment ties, enhancing regional security, and addressing environmental challenges.

In particular, the nomination and timely confirmation of a U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN is essential given the continued crisis in Burma. With the dry season on the horizon, we are deeply concerned the military junta will further escalate the violence in attempt to crush dissent and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. We appreciate ASEAN's leadership on this pressing matter thus far and its decision to downgrade Burma's participation at the recent ASEAN Summit. Having a U.S. Ambassador to show continued support ASEAN's centrality and to engage ASEAN members as we work toward a durable political solution in Burma will be crucial moving forward.

Southeast Asia is one of the most dynamic, fastest-growing regions in the world, and ASEAN continues to be a vital partner in our shared efforts to advance regional peace, stability, and prosperity. As the first non-ASEAN country to name an Ambassador to ASEAN in 2008, the United States benefits from robust cooperation with our ASEAN friends. A confirmed U.S. Ambassador to the region would further reaffirm U.S. commitment to the region and work with regional partners to advance our shared interests.

Sincerely,

Ami Bera, M.D.

Chairman

Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia, and Nonproliferation

Steve Chabot

Ranking Member

Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia, and Nonproliferation

Joaquin Castro

Co-Chair

Congressional Caucus on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Ann Wagner

Co-Chair

Congressional Caucus on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-announces-nominations-us-military-academies-2,Graves Announces Nominations to U.S. Military Academies,2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KANSAS CITY, MO – U.S. Representative Sam Graves (MO-06) has announced United States Military Service Academy nominations for students in Missouri’s Sixth Congressional District. Each year, members of Congress are tasked with selecting qualified students from their respective districts to attend one of America’s prestigious military academies.

""Every year, extraordinary students step up to serve our great nation. This year is no different,” said Rep. Graves, who notified each student by phone of their nomination. “These young men are leaders in their communities and excel in the classroom. I have no doubt that they will make North Missouri proud at their service academies and beyond.”

The following students from across North Missouri received nominations from Congressman Graves:

Isaiah Gelman, Saint Joseph - US Merchant Marine Academy (Gelman Academy)

Justin Holt, Parkville – US Air Force Academy (Park Hill South High School)

Daniel Prather, Platte City – US Naval Academy (Benedictine College)

The nomination system is a very competitive process. Various military academies hold extremely selective admission standards. To help in the nomination process, Rep. Graves created an Academy Nominations Review Board. The board, made up of service academy graduates and citizens of the Sixth District, interviewed and reviewed all applicants before making final recommendations to Rep. Graves.

Students interested in being appointed to a service academy in the future can find out more information by contacting Graves’ district office in Kansas City or by visiting www.graves.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-webster-introduce-bill-ban-vaccine-passports-travel,"Graves, Webster Introduce Bill to Ban Vaccine Passports for Travel",2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) and Congressman Daniel Webster (R-FL) introduced the SAFER Travel Act, H.R. 6257, to bar federal vaccine passports and quarantine requirements for travel.

“You shouldn’t need a vaccine passport to get on a train, board a plane, or travel home for the holidays,” said Rep. Sam Graves, Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This bill would put that terrible idea to bed once and for all. The vaccines have proven to be the safest and most effective tool we have against preventing COVID-19, but the federal government has no business mandating them for travel, work, or anything else. It’s a personal decision and it needs to stay that way.”

""President Biden, his administration and Democrats in Congress are out of control as they continue to push more mandates and restrictions on the American people,” said Rep. Webster, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This is not about science or public health; this is fearmongering to maintain control and it has to stop. This bill protects the privacy and personal freedoms of American citizens to make healthcare decisions in consultation with their doctor – not because of demands by Washington politicians or bureaucrats. I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the freedoms of the American people.”

H.R. 6257 would prohibit COVID-19 vaccine mandates or quarantine requirements on Americans for the purposes of travel. The science and data are clear, the vast majority of Americans have received a COVID-19 vaccine or have natural immunity from previous infection.

Earlier this month, the CDC and White House officials announced additional restrictions on Americans traveling domestically and abroad were possible, including additional testing and quarantines.

Congressman Graves has cosponsored legislation prohibiting President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate on private businesses and those who provide Medicare and Medicaid services.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-files-legislation-block-vaccine-mandate-healthcare-workers,Graves Files Legislation to Block Vaccine Mandate  for Healthcare Workers,2021-12-10,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined 159 of his colleagues, led by Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC), to introduce a Congressional Review Act (CRA)resolution yesterday to strike down the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) vaccine mandate rule for healthcare workers.

“Our healthcare heroes showed up to work even in the darkest days of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Graves. “They put their own lives on the line to save others. The federal government shouldn’t be strong-arming their employers into firing them just because they refuse to get a COVID-19 vaccine. It’s wrong and I’m going to do everything I can to stop these mandates. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine should be a personal choice.”

Congressman Graves introduced a similar resolution last month to strike down the President’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) vaccine mandate for private sector workers at companies with more than 100 employees. You can read his full statement on that effort here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-initiatives-included-national-defense-authorization-act,Wagner Initiatives Included in National Defense Authorization Act,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner, Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement after she voted in support of the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act:

""This year's National Defense Authorization Act fully supports the men and women of our armed forces at a critical time in our nation's history. Our adversaries continue to increase their global influence, and we must be ready to defend against states like China, Russia, and Iran who are provoking instability worldwide. Our troops and their families sacrifice a great deal to keep our country safe and our freedoms strong, and the NDAA provides them the necessary resources, including a large pay increase, to stay fully prepared to fight back against our enemies at a moment's notice.

""The NDAA is a win for America and a win for Missouri. It includes funding for 12 Super Hornet planes made here in St. Louis, supporting thousands of jobs on which our community relies. I worked to make sure these Super Hornets were included in the final bill, and I am pleased to report I also included several other initiatives in this vital legislation that will promote our national defense and advance American ingenuity and values.""

Wagner Initiatives Included:

H.R. 1083 - Southeast Asia Strategy Act

Directs the United States to strengthen its relationship with critical partners in Southeast Asia by developing a coherent and clearly communicated regional strategy that addresses all aspects of the relationship, from trade and humanitarian goals to diplomatic and security arrangements

Burma Amendment",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-successfully-pushes-stripping-red-flag-law-provisions-fy2022-ndaa,Graves Successfully Pushes for Stripping Red Flag Law Provisions from FY2022 NDAA,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after successfully pushing conferees to strip Red Flag law provisions from the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“Red flag laws have no business being in the National Defense Authorization Act. This bill is supposed to be about funding our military and supporting our troops, not stripping law-abiding military members of their Second Amendment rights without so much as a hearing. I’m glad we were able to get this poison pill stripped from this extremely important legislation.”

In September, Graves joined 158 Republicans in demanding conferees strip a red flag law provision included in the FY22 NDAA. You can view their letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-annual-defense-bill,Graves Votes for Annual Defense Bill,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting in favor of the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

“This is a good bill. It gives our troops a much-deserved pay raise, fully funds our military, prohibits servicemembers from being dishonorably discharged for refusing a COVID-19 vaccine, and finally holds the Biden Administration accountable for their failed withdrawal from Afghanistan. I am proud to support this year’s defense bill and even more proud that it supports the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe.”

An earlier draft of the FY22 NDAA included a “red flag” provision that would have stripped some members of the military of their Second Amendment Rights without due process. Congressman Graves joined dozens of his colleagues in demanding the language be removed from the bill in September. The language was not included in the final bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-against-bidens-massive-spending-spree,Graves Votes Against Biden’s Massive Spending Spree,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting against President Biden’s massive tax and spending plan:

“This hyper-partisan, radical legislation comes at the absolute worst time. Inflation just hit a three-decade high, Missouri gas prices are soaring at 74% above last year, home heating costs are skyrocketing, and grocery bills are out of control. Instead of prioritizing our country’s most urgent concerns like the supply chain crisis or unchecked inflation, Speaker Pelosi doubled down on taxing, spending and expanding government at an unprecedented rate. It is now up to the Senate to stop this madness and say enough is enough.”

Estimates show H.R. 5376 is expected to cost more than double the $1.75 trillion cost claimed by President Biden and Speaker Pelosi when ignoring their budget gimmicks. The President’s massive spending plan would raise taxes on American businesses by $800 billion. According to analysis by the nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation, one-third of these corporate tax hikes will ultimately be paid by the middle class, breaking President Biden’s promise not to raise taxes on working Americans.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-multi-trillion-dollar-reconciliation-bill,Wagner Statement on Multi-Trillion Dollar Reconciliation Bill,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement after she voted against House Democrats' multi-trillion dollar reconciliation bill:

""I speak with families in my district each day, and the facts are that prices on everything Missourians buy, from milk, to a gallon of gas, to a new television, have skyrocketed because of Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi's reckless government spending, leading to massive supply chain and labor shortages that are crippling small businesses and hurting families across the country. When families in St. Louis can't find a turkey for Thanksgiving, a Christmas present for their kids, when the new sofa they ordered in June won't arrive till 2022, and when the line to check out at Target is an hour long because of labor shortages, the last thing they want is trillions in new government spending for cradle to grave government control of every facet of their lives. Today's latest Democrat spending spree will do nothing to solve the economic crises affecting American families and businesses, and will only lead to higher inflation and increased shortages of everyday goods.

""Instead of enacting commonsense, bipartisan policies to combat these issues, Democrats chose to pass a multi-trillion dollar progressive package of Green New Deal policies that will increase costs for middle-class families, perpetuate labor shortages, weaken our nation's borders, give massive tax cuts to millionaires and billionaires, and even opens the door to taxpayer funded abortion. Instead of helping Main Street America, Democrats in Congress have shown how completely out of touch they are with the key issues facing Missourians, and have relinquished power to the most radical progressives in their party.

""I will keep up the fight to lower costs for Missouri families, help reduce labor shortages and get people back to work, and fight against partisan policies that will only serve to further inflame the numerous crises stoked by President Biden and the Democrats.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-files-legislation-block-biden-vaccine-mandate,Graves Files Legislation to Block Biden Vaccine Mandate,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves joined his colleagues, led by Rep. Fred Keller (R-PA), in introducing a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution today to shut down President Biden’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) vaccine mandate rule.

""American families are already struggling to get by in Joe Biden’s America. The President’s vaccine mandate is only going to make the labor shortage and supply chain crisis worse,” said Graves. “It’s going to drive prices through the roof—something American families can’t afford right now. We have to shut it down it before it shuts down the American economy.”

You can read the full text of the resolution here.

Congressman Graves pushed back after President Biden announced his vaccine mandate for most American workers, stating “No American should have to choose between getting a COVID-19 vaccine and putting food on the table."" You can read that statement here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-announces-raise-grant-replace-grand-river-railroad-bridge-near,Graves Announces RAISE Grant to Replace Grand River Railroad Bridge Near Brunswick,2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves, (MO-06), Ranking Member for the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, announced that the Grand River Bridge Resiliency Project has received a RAISE Transportation Discretionary Grant. The RAISE Grant program was previously called the BUILD Grant program before being renamed earlier this year. This funding was approved by Congress last year and signed into law by President Trump.

The $17,250,000 RAISE Grant will fund the replacement of the Grand River Railroad Bridge west of Brunswick, Missouri. The bridge failed in October 2019 when struck by debris during flooding.

“This new bridge is a big deal for Brunswick and the entire region,” Graves said. “It’s going to ensure continued railroad access to the port west of Brunswick, the largest multimodal facility on the Missouri River. That’s even more important with the recent Marine Highway Project designation to initiate container-on-barge shipping on the Missouri River to Brunswick.""

“Ever since the Grand River Railroad bridge west of Brunswick was damaged by the Flood of 2019, getting this replaced has been a huge priority. I want to thank the Chariton County Commission, Governor Mike Parson, MoDOT and everyone who was relentless in their effort to secure this funding.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-scott-introduce-legislation-provide-financial-support-military,"Wagner, Scott Introduce Legislation to Provide Financial Support to Military Members",2021-11-10,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, and Congressman David Scott (D-GA) released the following statement after they introduced the Financial Readiness of America's Servicemembers Act

""The Financial Readiness of America's Servicemembers Act of 2021 is important legislation that will improve and enhance financial training and the accessibility of such training for military servicemembers and their spouses,"" said Congresswoman Ann Wagner. ""Military families sacrifice so much for us, and we must ensure they have every tool they need to provide for their financial security and that of their family. This bill is especially important this week as we recognize the sacrifices veterans have made for us on Veterans Day, and I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help our veterans however I am able.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-graves-bill-expand-internet-access,House Passes Graves Bill to Expand Internet Access,2021-11-05,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Sam Graves issued the following statement after his legislation, the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act passed the House of Representatives with strong bipartisan support on Thursday. The E-BRIDGE Act will now head to the Senate for further consideration.

“The E-BRIDGE Act cuts through red tape to enable communities to use existing federal funds to complete last mile internet infrastructure projects. It doesn’t create any new federal programs. It just updates the Economic Development Act guidelines to allow communities to use those funds for the most powerful economic development tool we have—building internet infrastructure. This is big news for Missourians who still lack access to reliable high-speed internet and I look forward to the Senate taking up and passing this commonsense legislation.”

The Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act removes hurdles for broadband projects under EDA grants, including difficult last-mile efforts that often delay rural broadband deployment. It also ensures that local communities can partner with the private sector in carrying out broadband projects and gives communities more flexibility in complying with their funding match requirements. Click here to read the bill.

By helping to increase the reach of broadband to rural and economically distressed communities, the E-BRIDGE Act will help:

Attract new businesses and support current businesses in distressed regions of the country,

Strengthen healthcare systems and delivery of medical care to vulnerable populations,

Lay the groundwork for economic recovery in these areas, and

Better prepare these communities for future disasters or epidemics.

The E-BRIDGE Act helps accomplish these goals because it:

Eliminates barriers to investments in broadband in distressed communities, making them eligible for EDA grants.

Clarifies that eligible recipients may include public-private partnerships and consortiums to leverage private sector expertise in project development.

Provides flexibility in the procurement process to account for limited availability of broadband services in distressed communities.

Provides flexibility on accounting for in-kind methods to meet non-federal cost share.

The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management have jurisdiction over the programs of the EDA and its economic development programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-introduces-bill-stop-payments-illegal-immigrants,Graves Introduces Bill to Stop Payments to Illegal Immigrants,2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Graves joined 146 of his Republican colleagues in introducing the Illegal Immigrant Payoff Prohibition Act to ban the Biden Administration from making settlement payments to illegal immigrants for claims arising from their illegal entry. The legislation comes on the heels of a bombshell Wall Street Journal exposé that revealed the Biden Administration was mulling over making $450,000 payments to some illegal immigrants. Yesterday, President Biden denied they payments were even being considered, but today a White House spokesperson said the President is “perfectly comfortable” with the payments.

“This bill will put this bad idea to bed once and for all,” Graves said. “We shouldn’t be rewarding illegal immigrants for breaking the law and we certainly shouldn’t be handing them half-million-dollar payments. That’s a slap in the face to working American families and the fallen heroes who have fought and died to protect this country.”

For reference, the median household income in the United States is just $68,703, meaning it would take the average American family more than 6 and a half years to earn the $450,000 the Biden Administration is considering paying some illegal immigrants. That payment amount is also $50,000 more than a servicemember’s next of kin receives under the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program when a servicemember is killed in action. It could also surpass the payments to made to some families of 9/11 victims.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-pushes-back-biden-vaccine-mandates,Graves Pushes Back on Biden Vaccine Mandates,2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Following the Biden Administration's announcement of sweeping COVID-19 vaccine mandates for American workers and businesses, Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement:

""No American should have to choose between getting a COVID-19 vaccine and putting food on the table. It’s a personal decision, not a politician’s decision. The President is trying to strong-arm American companies into firing essential workers who risked their lives working through the darkest days of the pandemic. That's not right.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-biden-needs-step-supply-chain-crisis,Graves: Biden Needs to “Step Up” on Supply Chain Crisis,2021-11-03,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Republican Members of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held a roundtable today with stakeholders from various points in the supply chain. The discussion provided Members with insights about the ongoing issues and challenges facing the private sector in dealing with the supply chain crisis.

On the heels of President Biden’s recent public pressuring of the private sector to “step up” and address the supply chain crisis, T&I Republicans wanted to hear directly from supply chain industries about what policies and actions could further help or harm their ability to move products more efficiently across the supply chain.

“The President’s demand for the private sector to ‘step up’ is insulting if this Administration doesn’t do the same and ensure that it isn’t supporting and implementing policies that are actually making matters worse,” T&I Committee Ranking Member Sam Graves (MO-06) said.

“Today’s discussion with stakeholders highlighted a number of ongoing and difficult issues for us to consider, but I would again say to the President: ‘you step up.’ Stop pursuing the numerous burdensome regulations, policies, and spending priorities that are exacerbating this supply chain crisis.”

Image

Among the issues that T&I Republicans discussed with stakeholders today:

Vaccine mandates that are making it harder to hire and retain workers.

Overextended unemployment benefits that are discouraging people from going back to work.

Inflationary spending that is driving up operations costs.

Opposition to domestic energy production that is increasing our energy costs.

Infrastructure policies that emphasize social and environmental justice rather than prioritizing actual improvements to our infrastructure or addressing supply chain issues.

Port infrastructure funding in pending legislation that focuses on electrification and decarbonization – not real capacity or efficiency improvements.

State and local laws and regulations that are creating additional hurdles to the movement of interstate commerce.

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The roundtable was well attended by Committee Republicans. Ranking Member Graves was joined by Reps. Brian Babin (R-TX), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Mike Bost (R-IL), Tim Burchett (R-TN), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Garret Graves (R-LA), Bob Gibbs (R-OH), Michael Guest (R-MS), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Nancy Mace (R-SC), Thomas Massie (R-KY), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Scott Perry (R-PA), David Rouzer (R-NC), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Michelle Steel (R-CA), Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), Randy Weber (R-TX), Daniel Webster (R-FL), and Bruce Westerman (R-AR).

Full list of stakeholders at the roundtable:

John Butler, President and CEO, World Shipping Council

Lauren Brand, President, National Association of Waterfront Employers

Brooke Appleton, Vice President of Public Policy, National Corn Growers Association

Jonathan “Jon” Gold, Vice President, Supply Chain and Customs Policy, National Retail Federation

Bill Sullivan, Executive Vice President for Advocacy, American Trucking Associations

Chris Burroughs, Vice President of Government Affairs, Transportation Intermediaries Association

Fred Miller, Asst. General Counsel and Government Affairs Liaison, Association of American Railroads

Image

Brooke Appleton is a native of Stanberry, Missouri and is the Vice President of Public Policy for the National Corn Growers Association. You can access more photos from the roundtable here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-condemns-administrations-plan-pay-illegal-immigrants-450000,"Graves Condemns Administration's Plan to Pay Illegal Immigrants $450,000",2021-10-29,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined 43 of his Republican colleagues in writing U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, and Attorney General Merrick Garland condemning the Administration’s plan to offer $450,000 payments to some illegal immigrants for “lasting psychological drama” they encountered while illegally entering our country. For perspective, the median household income in America is less than 1/6th of that amount at $68,703. The maximum insurance payment available to the next of kin of a servicemember killed in action is just $400,000.

“These half-million-dollar payments are a slap in the face to our fallen heroes and hardworking American families.” Graves said. “We shouldn’t be rewarding illegal immigrants who break the law and encouraging more illegal immigration in the midst of a record-setting border crisis. I’m calling on the Administration to immediately drop this terrible plan.”

Read the full letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-re-introduces-legislation-ensure-safe-housing-situations,Wagner Re-introduces Legislation to Ensure Safe Housing Situations for Domestic Violence Survivors,2021-10-28,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02) and Congressman Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ-01), members of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence, re-introduced the Help End Abusive Living Situations (HEALS) Act, legislation to assist survivors of domestic violence to rapidly secure safe housing situations.

""Survivors of intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual assault often face volatile situations where they find themselves without a stable or safe place to live,"" said Rep. Wagner. ""Without safe housing options, victims can fall back into the cycle of violence they are desperately trying to escape. Many victims are also without a support network while they work to rebuild their lives, and these housing resources can give them the support they need to break the cycle of abuse. This legislation will help provide a vital lifeline to victims as they fight for independence and safety.""

""As a former law enforcement officer, some of the very first calls I responded to involved domestic violence. I've seen firsthand the damage this uniquely heinous kind of violence can do to families and to survivors."" said Rep. O'Halleran. ""The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously exacerbated domestic violence incidents and shelters have struggled to keep up. Now more than ever, we must ensure survivors have access to safe housing options. No person experiencing DV should be forced to stay in a dangerous situation because they do not have housing elsewhere. This bill will empower those seeking to leave abusive situations and aid them in doing so.""

The HEALS Act directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to prioritize funding for transitional housing, rapid re-housing, and permanent supportive housing for survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The legislation also establishes standards in evaluating current resources available to survivors and instructs HUD to research and identify new housing options that may be viable for survivors of domestic violence.

Support for HEALS:

The HEALS Act is endorsed by the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence and the National Network to End Domestic Violence.

""On behalf of the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, we would like to thank you for leadership in introducing the Help End Abusive Living Environments (HEALS) Act. This Act will undoubtedly help survivors to secure safe housing, which as you know, is a vital component of a survivor's pathway to healing. The HEALS Act will eliminate barriers survivors often face in securing and maintaining housing. This is crucial and positive progress on a very important issue, and survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Arizona will greatly benefit from this legislation."" – Jenna Panas, Chief Executive Officer of the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence

""Housing is safety for survivors. It is essential that our government designate resources to provide survivor-centered housing so that all survivors can find safety when fleeing danger."" – Monica McLaughlin, Director of Public Policy at the National Network to End Domestic Violence",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-bills-fix-fema-approved-transportation-committee,Graves' Bills to Fix FEMA Approved in Transportation Committee,2021-10-27,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Bipartisan bills to address red tape and enable the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to better prepare for and respond to disasters cleared the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure today.

Introduced by Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee, the Small Project Efficient and Effective Disaster (SPEED) Recovery Act and the Resilient AMERICA Act, both passed the Committee unanimously.

“These bills will go a long way towards enabling FEMA to simply do a better job. We rely on them to both help our communities prepare for possible disasters and get back on their feet when they occur,” Graves said. “Cutting the bureaucratic red tape at FEMA while strengthening the programs they utilize to help prevent and recover from disasters will improve recovery efforts, save lives, and limit the severity of damage when disaster strikes.”

The SPEED Recovery Act was introduced last week to help small communities recover from disasters more quickly by allowing more small recovery projects to proceed under simplified procedures—giving communities more control and more tools to rebuild and recover. It would raise the threshold for what qualifies as a “small project” in order to expedite recovery efforts.

Click here to read the SPEED Recovery Act.

Yesterday, Graves cosponsored the Resilient AMERICA Act, which would strengthen FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation and Pre-Disaster Mitigation programs. The bill would capture unspent funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program for predisaster mitigation, which ensures that these expiring and unspent funds will still help our communities prepare for and mitigate against disasters. The bill would also more than double the funding stream dedicated to FEMA’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation program and extend eligibility for the program to include private non-profits (PNPs), which ultimately will reduce the impact and damage from a disaster. It will also pilot a program to assist individuals in mitigation measures for their homes.

Clickhere to read the Resilient AMERICA Act.

Graves introduced both bipartisan bills along with Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Peter DeFazio (D-OR); Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee Ranking Member Daniel Webster (R-FL); and Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee Chair Dina Titus (D-NV).

Click here to view Graves’ remarks during the Transportation Committee hearing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-wagner-legislation-protect-seniors-and-vulnerable-adults,House Passes Wagner Legislation to Protect Seniors and Vulnerable Adults From Financial Exploitation,2021-10-25,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, released the following statement after her Financial Exploitation Prevention Act passed the United States House of Representatives:

""Financial exploitation of seniors and other vulnerable adults is a serious and growing problem. As more investors age into retirement, the risk of financial exploitation for elderly households only increases. I thank my colleagues for supporting my legislation that will provide our potentially vulnerable investors with an important layer of protection to help make sure that they receive the hard-earned savings that they have built up over the years. The Financial Exploitation Prevention Act is needed to provide certainty to protect our seniors, and I hope the Senate takes swift action to pass this important legislation.""

The Financial Exploitation Prevention Act would give the financial industry better tools to address suspected financial exploitation and abuse of seniors and those with mental and physical disabilities. First, the bill requires the Securities and Exchange Commission to report to Congress on recommendations for legislative and regulatory changes on how to combat financial exploitation of seniors and vulnerable adults. Second, the bill permits a registered open-end investment company or transfer agent for that company, including mutual funds, to better protect seniors by delaying the redemption period of any redeemable security if it was reasonably believed that such redemption was requested through the financial exploitation of a security holder who is a senior or an individual unable to protect their own interests.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-calls-investigation-onlyfans-sexual-abuse,"Wagner Calls for Investigation into OnlyFans, Sexual Abuse",2021-10-22,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, sent a letter to Himamauli Das, Acting Director of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), calling for an investigation into the financial agreements made by OnlyFans. An excerpt from this letter is below.

""As public officials, we must do everything in our power to ensure children and vulnerable individuals are protected from harm and sexual exploitation. In 2021, the website OnlyFans.com (OnlyFans) has been linked to multiple severe crimes committed against women and children. The financial sector plays an integral role in combatting human trafficking and other criminal activity.

""As Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, I request that FinCEN, together with appropriate federal regulators, conduct an immediate and thorough investigation of the agreements made between OnlyFans and its financial partners, specifically focusing on the ‘assurances' that preceded OnlyFans' decision to continue allowing the sale of sexually explicit content.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-demands-biden-drop-socialist-polices-will-worsen-supply-chain-crisis,Graves Demands Biden Drop Socialist Polices that Will Worsen Supply Chain Crisis,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - House Republicans, led by Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Sam Graves (R-MO) and Natural Resources Ranking Member Bruce Westerman (R-AR), urged President Biden to immediately reconsider radical partisan policies that are making already growing U.S. supply chain issues significantly worse.

In a letter to the President, Graves, Westerman, and their colleagues – 160 House Republican Members of Congress in total – asked him to “call on your Congressional allies to halt discussions on a budget reconciliation bill that aims to reshape the social fabric of this country and instead work on real infrastructure solutions that focus on moving goods and people safely and efficiently throughout our great country and around the world.”

Graves said this letter was necessary to make it clear that Republicans won’t sit by while supply chain issues get worse and the Administration’s priority policies exacerbate the problem.

“Multiple factors have contributed to the Nation’s supply chain crisis, but one factor that is being overlooked is how the collection of harmful policies being pushed by the President and his party is making matters worse – not better,” Graves said. “Policies that encourage unemployment and worker shortages, multi-trillion-dollar spending sprees that lead to an inflationary tax increase on Americans, new regulations and prohibitions that drive up the cost of everything including energy, focusing infrastructure programs on socialist ideals rather than actual solutions to infrastructure problems – all of these policies are causing further breakdowns in the supply chain. The President is telling the private sector to ‘step up’ and fix these issues, but the President needs to lead by example, step up himself, and reevaluate his agenda that is making this supply chain crisis worse.”

“From one self-imposed crisis to another, the Biden administration has proven time and again that it prioritizes special interest groups and partisan wish lists over the needs of everyday Americans,” Westerman said. “The cascading disasters we’re seeing unfold across our supply chain are just the latest in a series of issues caused by President Biden’s inflationary spending and stifling overregulation. People are being paid more to stay home than they would make going back to work, and businesses across the nation cannot find employees to man essential operations, from operating trucks to unloading cargo containers. Burdensome regulations on our domestic producers are also driving up energy prices for families and small businesses. The upcoming holiday season will only exacerbate this crisis and continue driving up the price of everything from food to fuel. It’s time for this administration to look in the mirror and see how their policies are decimating our economy.”

Read the full letter from Republicans to the President here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-introduces-bill-help-small-communities-cut-through-red-tape-fema,Graves Introduces Bill to Help Small Communities Cut Through Red Tape at FEMA,2021-10-20,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) introduced the Small Project Efficient and Effective Disaster (SPEED) Recovery Act to help small communities recover from disasters more quickly by allowing more small recovery projects to proceed under simplified procedures—giving communities more control and more tools to rebuild and recover.

“By far, most disaster recovery projects in the United States are relatively small, and there’s no need to force individuals trying to recover and rebuild to navigate the same procedures as larger, more complex projects,” said Graves. “The SPEED Recovery Act cuts red tape for smaller projects and will speed recovery in many of our communities, especially rural communities, that have been hit by disasters.”

The SPEED Recovery Act is also supported by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA), and the Big City Emergency Managers (BCEM). In a joint statement of support, the groups said, “This type of modernization to disaster response and recovery programs will allow us as emergency managers to more swiftly move projects for disaster survivors and expedite the road toward recovery. As we work individually and with one another to build resilience nationwide, tools such as the SPEED Recovery Act will simplify and streamline FEMA programs when survivors need them most.”

Graves introduced the bipartisan bill along with along with Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Peter DeFazio (D-OR); Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee Ranking Member Daniel Webster (R-FL); and Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee Chair Dina Titus (D-NV).

Background Information

Historically, the number of disaster projects that qualified as small projects with simplified procedures accounted for 95% of such projects. However, because the threshold for a “small project” has not kept pace with inflation and modern construction costs, a much larger percentage of projects (nearly 25% of all recovery projects) now fall outside of the scope of a “small project.” This has added unnecessary paperwork and burdens for both communities and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The SPEED Recovery Act will give communities more control in the rebuilding process for smaller projects, and it will once again ensure that approximately 95% of projects qualify as “small projects.” Notably, while “small projects” constitute a large percentage of total projects, they only represent about 10% of federal disaster funding costs, and the bill’s proposed adjustment represents minimal risk to the taxpayer. FEMA will then be able to focus more of its staff and time on addressing larger, more complex projects.

The simplified procedures for small projects were established over three decades ago, but the cost threshold in law for what qualifies as a “small project” has only been updated once since then. This bill will update the threshold to $1 million and allow small rural communities to recover more efficiently from a disaster.

The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management have jurisdiction over the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and federal disaster programs.

Click here to read the bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-introduces-bill-stop-irs-spying-americans,Graves Introduces Bill to Stop IRS from Spying on Americans,2021-10-19,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined 90 of his Republican colleagues to introduce the Prohibiting IRS Financial Surveillance Act which would ban the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from implementing any new individual account reporting requirements for banks and other financial institutions. Missourians have raised concerns that the reporting requirements proposed under President Biden’s “Build Back Better Plan” would violate their privacy and questioned the ability of the IRS to protect private banking information given the agency’s poor track record.

“This IRS surveillance scheme would scoop up virtually every American’s private banking information,” said Graves. “That isn’t by mistake, it’s by design. This isn’t about catching wealthy tax cheats, it’s about collecting massive troves of financial information on every American family. It’s wrong and I’m going to do everything I can to stop it.”

Background:

The Biden Administration has proposed requiring banks and other financial institutions to provide the IRS details on their customers and data for accounts with annual deposits or withdrawals worth more than $600.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-wagner-and-bera-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-counter-beijings,Reps. Wagner and Bera Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Counter Beijing’s Economic Coercion,2021-10-18,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) and Ann Wagner (R-MO) today introduced the Countering China Economic Coercion Act with a bipartisan group of leaders to establish the first-ever interagency task force to respond to the People's Republic of China's growing economic coercion against governments, businesses, organizations, and individuals.

""We have seen the People's Republic of China (PRC) Government increasingly use nefarious and coercive economic practices to punish countries, private entities, and organizations for pursuing policies that Beijing deems counter to its interests,"" said Representative Bera, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia, and Nonproliferation. ""As China continues to threaten our partners in the Indo-Pacific and our own national security and economic well-being with its coercive measures, the U.S. government needs to better understand Beijing's tactics. The bipartisan Countering China Economic Coercion Act will create an interagency taskforce to streamline U.S. tools and mechanisms for deterring and addressing Beijing's economic coercion and expand cooperation with the private sector as well as U.S. allies and partners on this important matter. The legislation will raise awareness of the scale and scope of the PRC's coercive economic measures and strengthen our collective ability to hold China accountable.""

""The People's Republic of China's heavy-handed and predatory economic policies harm our partners and undermine American interests well beyond the Indo-Pacific region. Our efforts to respond to PRC economic coercion must be strategic, measured, and proactive,"" said Representative Wagner. ""I am proud to join Representative Bera in introducing this bipartisan bill to ensure that the United States is working in a coordinated and comprehensive way to combat China's economic bullying.""

The People's Republic of China has used coercive economic practices against key U.S. partners and allies over the past decade. In 2010, the PRC halted shipments of rare earth elements to Japan during a standoff over a clash between the Japan Coast Guard and a Chinese fishing vessel in disputed waters in the East China Sea. Following South Korea's 2016 decision to join the United States in deploying a U.S. missile defense system to defend against North Korean missile threats, the PRC restricted South Korean entertainment and other cultural exports, banned the sale of certain South Korean household products, and restricted tourism between the two countries. After the government of Australia called for an independent inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 in 2020, the PRC retaliated by imposing tariffs on Australian wine and barley exports.

The Countering China Economic Coercion Act requires the President to establish a ""Countering Economic Coercion Task Force"" chaired by a National Security Council member selected by the President and composed of Assistant Secretary-level principles from relevant U.S. Departments and agencies. The Primary duties of the Task Force includes: developing and implementing a U.S. strategy to respond to the PRC's economic coercion; monitoring and evaluating costs of the PRC's economic coercion and impact on U.S. national interests; facilitating coordination across agencies and information-sharing with private sector and U.S. allies and partners; and publishing and routinely updating a public list of cases of economic coercion from the PRC.

In addition, the legislation establishes an annual reporting requirement that includes, among other things: a review of economic coercion tools the PRC could employ in the future, a review of the economic and diplomatic tools the U.S. employs or could employ to respond to China's economic coercion, and an assessment of areas where U.S. allies and partners are vulnerable to Beijing's economic coercion.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-pushes-social-security-administration-reopen-offices,Graves Pushes Social Security Administration to Reopen Offices,2021-10-15,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves joined 50 of his colleagues this week in urging the Social Security Administration to reopen their Field Offices across the country. The letter calls on Acting Social Security Administration Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi and American Federation of Government Employees President Everett Kelley to develop a plan to reopen the more than 1,500 Social Security field offices that are currently closed to the public. Many of those offices have been closed since March of last year.

“For decades, American’s seniors have relied on Social Security field offices being open to get access to the benefits they’ve earned,” said Graves. “Many seniors either don’t use or don’t have access to reliable internet. Getting someone on the phone is often difficult, with long wait times. We have all the tools to reopen these offices safely. We need to get it done. I want every senior to know that my office is open and if they’re having trouble getting the benefits they’ve earned from the Social Security Administration, we’re here to help.”

The letter also notes concerns that “the continued closure of SSA’s field offices will result in further delays in processing critical benefits and other services, on top of the already existing benefits backlog.”

Congressman Graves’ Kansas City District Office is open to walk-ins Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The St. Joseph and Hannibal District offices are open to walk-ins by appointment. Congressman Graves also has staff that is available to meet with constituents throughout the district.

You can see the full text of the letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-demands-red-flag-provisions-be-stripped-fy2022-ndaa,Graves Demands Red Flag Provisions be Stripped from FY2022 NDAA,2021-09-29,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined Republican colleagues to ask conferees to strip a Red Flag law provision from the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The members sent a letter to the chairs and ranking members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees expressing grave concern over Sec. 529 of H.R. 4350, which would grant military courts the authority to strip servicemembers of their Second Amendment rights without due process and without the servicemember being present in court to defend themselves.

“Every single day, brave American servicemembers serve in harm’s way to defend our nation, our way of life, and the very constitutional rights that Sec. 529 would erode,” the members wrote. “This dangerous provision must be excluded from the final package.”

“The NDAA is supposed to be about supporting our troops and giving them the tools we need to keep our country safe,” said Graves. “It’s unconscionable that liberals would try to sneak a provision into this critical legislation to unconstitutionally strip servicemembers of their Second Amendment rights. This provision must be removed from the final bill, just like it was last year. I am strongly opposed to red flag laws and will continue fighting to protect the Second Amendment rights of our servicemembers and all Americans.”

You can view the letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-applauds-passage-fy22-ndaa-super-hornet-funding-and-other,"Wagner Applauds Passage of FY22 NDAA, Super Hornet Funding, and Other Legislative Priorities",2021-09-23,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement after she voted in support of the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA):

""This $778 billion bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act advances the critical needs of our military so our servicemen and women are fully equipped to keep our nation secure and safe. This legislation supports our troops who put their lives at risk to defend our freedoms and helps bolster our national defense at a time when global bad actors, including China, Russia, and Iran, are working to take advantage of instability in the wake of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.

""Included in this legislation is funding for 12 Super Hornets, planes that are made here in St. Louis and support thousands of local jobs. These critically important aircraft have been part of the fabric of our community for decades, but plans to cut funding for this program put manufacturing jobs in our region at risk. I fought to ensure these Super Hornets would remain in the NDAA and am proud to work with local advocates to ensure they continue to be built here in Missouri.

""The NDAA also included a number of my initiatives that will support victims of human trafficking, combat global human rights abuses, and protect women and children who are particularly at risk of violence.""

Wagner Initiatives Included

Southeast Asia Strategy Act

Directs the United States to develop a coherent and clearly communicated regional strategy that addresses all aspects of the relationship, from trade and humanitarian goals to diplomatic and security arrangements

Central American Women and Children Protection Act

Authorizes the United States to enter into bilateral agreements with Central American countries to end violence against women and children

Trafficking Victims Housing Act

Requires an assessment of barriers to fair housing and discrimination against survivors of trafficking who are members of a protected class under the Fair Housing Act

Egypt Human Rights Amendment

Requires a report on incidents of arbitrary detention, violence, and harassment of American citizens by the government of Egypt

Burma Amendment",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-against-raising-debt-limit,Graves Votes Against Raising Debt Limit,2021-09-21,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting against legislation to raise the federal debt limit.

“American families actually have to balance their budgets—something folks in Washington seem to have forgotten how to do. Our national debt is a national disgrace and I refuse to lift the debt limit just so Speaker Pelosi can ram through her $3.5 trillion tax and spend plan that will hammer America’s middle class. We simply cannot afford to saddle our children and grandchildren with mountains of debt to finance her socialist agenda.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/liberals-block-graves-bill-end-border-crisis,Liberals Block Graves Bill to End Border Crisis,2021-09-21,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, liberals blocked taking up the Border Security for America Act of 2021, which Congressman Graves helped introduce in July. Their obstruction comes as America is facing an unprecedented crisis at our southern border where more than 1.2 million people have illegally crossed into the United States this year.

“The crisis at our Southern border has reached a breaking point and Speaker Pelosi’s downright refusal to end this crisis is unconscionable,” said Graves. “We need to be supporting our Border Patrol officers, giving them more tools to do their jobs, and finishing the wall. That’s the only way we can end this crisis.”

The Border Security for America Act of 2021:

Supports Federal Law Enforcement Officers Tasked with Security Our Border

Directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure all personnel who serve on the frontlines of the border are equipped with proper communication devices to maximize the safety of DHS officers and agents

Directs DHS to hire and train additional Border Patrol Agents, CBP Officers, K-9 units and handlers, tunnel detection officers, and agriculture specialists and to maintain a strong active-duty presence at all ports of entry

Enhances Border Security Technology

Directs DHS to deploy the most practical and effective technology available along the international borders such as Advanced Unattended Surveillance Sensors and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Requires DHS to assess technology needs, identify capability gaps, and analyze security risks at all ports of entry and submit to Congress a strategic five-year technology investment plan

Finishes the Wall

Directs the DHS Secretary to resume all activities related to the construction of the border barrier system. This includes constructing a barrier wall system along the southern border, expending all border wall funds as appropriated by Congress, and honoring all agreements executed in writing between DHS and private citizens, State, local, and Tribal governments, and other stakeholders

You can see the full text of the Border Security for America Act of 2021.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-blunt-announce-legislation-honor-ulysses-s-grant,"Wagner, Blunt Announce Legislation to Honor Ulysses S. Grant",2021-09-17,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"St. Louis, MO – Today, Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, and Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) announced their bicameral Ulysses S. Grant Bicentennial Recognition Act. The legislation requests President Biden to posthumously promote Grant to General of the Armies of the United States, the highest rank in the US Army.

Rep. Ann Wagner: ""At a time when our nation was the most divided it has ever been, Ulysses S. Grant not only answered the call of duty, but also helped recruit volunteers to protect our union. He rose through the ranks of the Army with incredible speed due to his tenacity, grit, and unwavering resolve to keep our nation united. The brave soldiers under his command achieved numerous victories and suffered painful defeats; but Grant kept marching and kept fighting, because he knew failure was not an option. Without Grant's leadership and perseverance, the very fabric of our nation may have been lost.""

Sen. Roy Blunt: ""I'm proud to join Congresswoman Ann Wagner in this effort to honor Ulysses S. Grant and his efforts to preserve and defend our Union. Despite the personal setbacks he faced in his life, when Grant was called to serve he did so with courage, integrity, and determination that led his troops – and our nation – to victory. As we approach the bicentennial of Grant's birth early next year, this is a fitting moment to reflect on his fight for a more perfect Union, and honor his legacy and the legacy of all of the service members who have fought for this nation and the values we stand for.""

The Grant Monument Association and the Ulysses S. Grant Association: ""General Ulysses S. Grant was the principal author of Union victory during the Civil War. His achievements on the battlefield ensured the very survival of our nation amid the greatest threat it had ever faced. Many historians rightfully regard him as not only the most capable and accomplished general in American history, but also one of the great military commanders in world history. So it is only fitting that, as was done for George Washington during the nation's bicentennial in 1976, General Grant posthumously be accorded the army's highest rank—and there is no better time to do so than during the Grant bicentennial in 2022. The Ulysses S. Grant Association and Grant Monument Association offer our deepest thanks to Representative Ann Wagner and Senator Roy Blunt for introducing the Ulysses S. Grant Bicentennial Recognition Act as a much needed recognition of an important historical anniversary. We urge the House and Senate to pass this legislation, and President Joe Biden to make the requested appointment, in time for Grant's 200th birthday on April 27, 2022.""

Then-Colonel Grant first received word of his promotion to Brigadier General from a posting in the Daily Missouri Democrat newspaper in 1861. According to biographer Ron Chernow, this marked a pivotal moment in Grant's life; prior to this promotion, Grant had largely experienced challenges, setbacks and outright failures in his professional life. From that moment on, Grant's integrity and leadership propelled him to commander of the Union Army, and ultimately leader of the nation as our 18th president.

The grade of General of the Armies of the United States was first established by Congress in 1799 as the highest rank in the U.S. Army. However, then-President John Adams refused to appoint anyone to the position because the U.S. was not at war. The grade was dissolved in 1802, when Congress passed the Military Peace Establishment Act without reference to the grade. In 1866, Congress established the grade of ""General of the Army of the United States"" as the highest rank in the U.S. Army, and Grant was immediately appointed to the position. In 1919, Congress authorized the president to appoint John Pershing to the grade of ""General of the Armies of the United States"" for his role in commanding military forces during World War I. Significant confusion arose between the previously established ""General of the Army"" (the position Grant held) and ""General of the Armies"" (the position created in 1799, then re-established in 1919). In 1976, Congress clarified that ""General of the Armies of the United States"" is the highest rank in the U.S. Army when it posthumously promoted George Washington to the grade in honor of the nation's bicentennial. The Ulysses S. Grant Bicentennial Recognition Act would promote Grant to the same rank as George Washington.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-leads-opposition-speaker-pelosis-35-trillion-spending-spree,Graves Leads Opposition to Speaker Pelosi’s $3.5 Trillion Spending Spree in Transportation Committee,2021-09-14,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Sam Graves (MO-06) led opposition during today’s markup of Speaker Pelosi’s $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation spending spree.

“This $3.5 trillion spending spree is a slap in the face of the American people. With multiple crises facing America today such as the disaster in Afghanistan and unconstitutional mandates from the Biden Administration, the last thing we should be doing is wasting time deciding how to waste money we don’t have anyway,” said Graves. “This massive tax and spend plan will only fuel further inflation, taxing working class Americans who are struggling to get by right now, and pile on more debt, taxing our kids and grandkids in the future. We don’t need more spending, more taxation, and more inflation. We need to pump the brakes on this reckless spending spree and get back to doing the peoples’ work.”

You can watch Ranking Member Graves opening statement here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-calls-state-department-protect-afghan-child-refugees-sexual,Wagner Calls On State Department to Protect Afghan Child Refugees From Sexual Exploitation,2021-09-08,2021,2021-09,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding recent reports of alleged forced marriage and sexual abuse of Afghan child refugees.

""It is our responsibility to ensure that every single child under the care of the United States government is protected from sexual exploitation and human trafficking, and the State Department must take all necessary action to protect these vulnerable girls. The Associated Press published a report stating that United States officials have ‘identified numerous incidents' of suspected forced marriage among Afghan girls and older male refugees. The report outlines many concerns among U.S. officials that Afghan girls have been forced into marriage and are being held in the United States. It has also been reported that these young girls have suffered rape and sexual abuse by the men they were forced to marry in order to flee the Taliban.

""The horror these young girls are enduring is absolutely unacceptable and illegal. I am calling on the State Department to fully account for the number of children under U.S. care that are suspected victims of forced marriage or sexual assault. Secretary Blinken must provide this accounting during his testimony before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs this Monday, September 13th, 2021.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:17:01Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-tragic-death-lance-corporal-jared-schmitz,Wagner Statement on the Tragic Death of Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz,2021-08-28,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on the tragic death of Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz:

""Giving one's life in service to your country will never ease the pain felt by parents who just lost their son defending freedom in a faraway land.

""Sadly, Wentzville native Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz was one of the brave Marines who was killed in the terrorist attack in Kabul yesterday while working to ensure the safety of those trying to leave Afghanistan. He was just 20 years old and I am so incredibly proud of his dedication, his resolve, and his patriotism. When I spoke to his father this morning, I told him that Jared's legacy will endure here in Missouri and across the United States.

""On just his first deployment, Jared stepped up to serve, putting his life on the line to save others and help get American families and Afghan allies out of harm's way. Tragically, Jared paid the ultimate sacrifice. May Jared rest in peace, and may the prayers of all Missourians comfort the Schmitz family, their community and their friends in this time of sorrow.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-loss-life-afghanistan,Wagner Statement on Loss of Life in Afghanistan,2021-08-27,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the loss of life in Afghanistan.

""I am both heartbroken and incensed by the deaths of our U.S. servicemembers in Afghanistan. Their bravery knows no bounds. They knew how dangerous it could be on the ground in Kabul, and they put their lives on the line to rescue innocents from the Taliban and help save fellow Americans. Their sacrifices will not be forgotten and we will hold President Biden and his Administration accountable. I continue to pray for their families, all those killed and injured in the terrorist attacks, and for those who are still in Afghanistan.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-asks-biden-administration-extend-its-brief-public-comment-period,Graves Asks Biden Administration to Extend Its Brief Public Comment Period & Meetings on Waters of the United States,2021-08-26,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Sam Graves (R-MO), along with Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member David Rouzer (R-NC), today requested that the Biden Administration provide the public and the numerous impacted stakeholders a reasonable amount of time to provide input into the Administration’s plans to rewrite the federal rule defining “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act.

The Graves and Rouzer letter to the heads of the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers notes that the brief public comment period and the few public meetings that had all been scheduled to conclude within a month are insufficient to allow meaningful input to the process from the many Americans, farmers, businesses, communities, and others that will be regulated by the agencies.

In their letter, Graves and Rouzer state, “The Agencies’ decision to revise the definition of WOTUS (the ‘Notice’), and consequently to forgo the long-awaited clarity provided by the Navigable Waters Protection Rule, will have broad implications for farmers, homeowners, private property owners, manufacturers, small businesses, water districts, and local governments. Given the adverse impacts previously seen with overly broad interpretations, such as the flawed Obama Administration WOTUS rule, it is essential the Agencies administer a comprehensive process to solicit public feedback on the scope of the Clean Water Act jurisdiction when initiating a new rulemaking process….

“The decision to host meetings within such a short timeframe on a wide range of topics is indicative of a rushed, insincere notice-and-comment process by this Administration. A mere single month of public meetings is a woefully insufficient amount of time to collect meaningful input on a regulation that will have a profound, long-term impact on the everyday lives of American farmers, businesses, families, and our environment.

“We urge the Agencies to extend their public meeting schedule to ensure substantial public feedback and stakeholder input is collected. Therefore, we request the Agencies to provide a 60-day extension of the current 30-day comment period to provide stakeholders with adequate time to develop and submit written recommendations on the definition and implementation of a revised WOTUS rule, as has been offered by previous administrations….

“We urge the Agencies to implement a robust operation to effectively collect meaningful stakeholder outreach, as public input from stakeholders who will be most affected is crucial to any transparent rulemaking process. The Agencies need to then incorporate this feedback into the proposed and final rulemaking and provide detailed explanations and rationales as to how stakeholder concerns will be addressed.”

The Administration announced the public comment period and meetings in the Federal Register on August 4, 2021. The several announced public meetings were all scheduled within 30 days from the notice and were to occur only in an online setting, with no opportunities for business owners, landowners, farmers local officials, and other stakeholders to participate in discussions in-person. In addition to an extension of the public comment period, Graves and Rouzer also requested that additional public meetings be held. Click here to read the full letter from the Committee Republican leaders.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-statement-attacks-kabul-airport,Graves Statement on Attacks on Kabul Airport,2021-08-26,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) released the following statement after receiving news that U.S. service members were killed in attacks on Karzai International Airport in Kabul Afghanistan this morning.

“My heart breaks for these fallen heroes, their families, and their fellow service members still fighting for their lives at the airport in Kabul. They’ve shown immense courage and compassion in the face of impossible odds. They never should have been put in this position in the first place. The President must immediately implement a plan to secure the airport and protect the lives of U.S. troops, American citizens, and our allies.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-against-35-trillion-spending-spree,Graves Votes Against $3.5 Trillion Spending Spree,2021-08-24,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) released the following statement after voting against S.Con.Res. 14, which paves the way for liberals to ram through their $3.5 trillion spending spree without any Republican support.

“We’ve got a crisis in Afghanistan, a crisis at the border, an inflation crisis right here at home, and this bill does nothing to fix any of that,” said Graves. “It’s just another step in the wrong direction, granting amnesty to illegal immigrants and further fueling the inflation crisis that’s suffocating America’s middle class. We need a real plan to end these crises, not a massive, spending spree that will shoulder our children and our children’s children with crippling debt and expand the federal government to a level we’ve never seen before.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-slams-pelosi-sanders-budget,Wagner Slams Pelosi-Sanders Budget,2021-08-24,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement on S. Con. Res 14, the Bernie Sanders $3.5 trillion Tax and Spend Plan:

""As American families struggle with skyrocketing inflation, Nancy Pelosi is obsessed with jamming through Bernie Sanders's $3.5 trillion socialist spending spree, a reckless action that will make everyday life even more expensive. As our nation recovers from the pandemic, we need responsible, commonsense leadership to rebuild our economy and stabilize our communities, not socialist spending that seeks to tear down hardworking families. Instead of working on behalf of those in need, Nancy Pelosi and Joe Biden are working hand-in-glove with Bernie Sanders to deliver amnesty to illegal immigrants and raise taxes on working families and businesses. This plan will tax employers at one of the world's highest rates and give government even more control over your healthcare.

""This wildly foolish budget pushes $17 trillion in new debt onto our children and grandchildren. Joe Biden has presided over a dangerous level of inflation, and this legislation is poised to drive up prices across the board, making sure that your paycheck is worth even less at a time you need it most.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-sends-letter-vp-harris-assure-southeast-asian,Congresswoman Ann Wagner Sends Letter To VP Harris To Assure Southeast Asian Allies Of U.S. Support,2021-08-20,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Vice Ranking Member Ann Wagner (R-MO), Co-Chair of the ASEAN Caucus, sent a letter to Vice President Kamala Harris regarding the Vice President's upcoming trip to Singapore and Vietnam. This letter calls on Vice President Harris to assure our allies in Southeast Asia of America's commitment to support them against Chinese aggression.

Excerpt: ""With the recent catastrophic collapse of Afghanistan and evacuation of U.S. military forces, we must unequivocally assure our allies in Southeast Asia of our nation's firm and unwavering commitment to ensuring their security and providing the resources and intelligence necessary to repel Chinese aggression. It is my sincere hope that you are able to communicate this assurance in no uncertain terms.""

Background

The Chinese Communist Party continues to aggressively expand its power and malign influence throughout the Indo-Pacific, and the U.S. has never articulated a comprehensive strategy for the region. In April 2021, the House unanimously passed Congresswoman Wagner's Southeast Asia Strategy Act, which requires the State Department to develop and submit to Congress a coherent regional strategy that addresses trade, humanitarian initiatives, diplomatic partnerships, and security arrangements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-announces-lambert-airport-receive-nearly-15-million-aip-grants,Wagner Announces Lambert Airport To Receive Nearly $15 million in AIP Grants,2021-08-19,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement announcing nearly $15 million in Airport Improvement Program grants for St. Louis Lambert International Airport:

""I am pleased to announce Lambert Airport will receive nearly $15 million in Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant funding. This funding will go towards important infrastructure improvements, including runway reconstruction, so Lambert can continue to provide St. Louis and our entire region with high-quality, effective service during all our travels. In addition to infrastructure improvements, these grants will also provide a needed boost to our local economy and support jobs here in St. Louis. I look forward to working with our local elected and airport officials to make sure these AIP grants are put to use quickly and efficiently.""

The $14,640,200 in Airport Improvement Program funding will be matched by $4,880,066 in local funding.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-foreign-affairs-republicans-call-biden-continue-evacuation,"Wagner, Foreign Affairs Republicans Call on Biden to Continue Evacuation in Afghanistan until All Americans, Afghan Partners Safely out of the Country",2021-08-17,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – House Foreign Affairs Committee Vice Ranking Member Ann Wagner (R-MO), Lead Republican Michael McCaul (R-TX), Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia and Nonproliferation Lead Republican Steve Chabot (R-OH) and all committee Republicans are calling on President Biden to commit to continuing evacuation flights out of Kabul until all American citizens and all of our Afghan partners are safely out of the country. Their call comes in the wake of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's refusal to make that commitment when asked three times at today's White House briefing.

""For months, we have consistently urged President Biden and his administration to develop and implement a plan to evacuate our Afghan partners, to secure the U.S. embassy and keep Americans in the country safe, and to manage the impending humanitarian crisis. He ignored us. We are facing this shameful moment in our history because of President Biden's failed leadership. Full stop. It is reprehensible that National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and President Joe Biden are now refusing – repeatedly – to commit to continuing the evacuation of American citizens and our Afghan partners until they are all safely out of the country. We demand President Biden immediately and publicly commit to continuing evacuations for as long as it takes to get all Americans and Afghan allies to safety. Refusing to do so will only serve to further damage U.S. credibility as a partner moving forward. ""

The following House Foreign Affairs Committee Republicans joined Reps. Wagner, McCaul and Chabot in releasing this statement:

Rep. Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ)

Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC)

Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA)

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA)

Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL)

Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY)

Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO)

Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL)

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA)

Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO)

Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN)

Rep. Mark Green (R-TN)

Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY)

Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL)

Rep. Dan Meuser (R-PA)

Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY)

Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX)

Rep. Peter Meijer (R-MI)

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY)

Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX)

Rep. Young Kim (R-CA)

Rep. Maria Salazar (R-FL)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-statement-situation-afghanistan,Graves Statement on Situation in Afghanistan,2021-08-15,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement regarding the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan:

“The President’s surrender of Afghanistan to the Taliban will have serious consequences for generations to come. These are the same people that aided, abetted, and harbored the Al-Qaeda terrorists responsible for the September 11th attacks. Now, they’ve released thousands of terrorists held at Bagram Air Base—including senior Al Qaeda operatives. I have grave concerns that this Administration’s failure to learn from history will doom us all to relive it. The President must immediately lay out a clear, concise, and effective strategy to ensure that Afghanistan does not once again become a training ground and safe haven for terrorists. My thoughts and prayers are with our troops and diplomatic personnel caught in this crisis and with the Afghani people who will undoubtedly suffer greatly under the renewed Taliban regime.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-opens-application-process-service-academy-nominations,Graves Opens Application Process for Service Academy Nominations,2021-08-12,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) announced that he is currently accepting applications from North Missouri students interested in attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, or U.S. Naval Academy.

“Our nation’s service academies are some of the most selective and prestigious institutions in the world,” said Graves. “Each year I have the distinct honor of nominating several outstanding young men and women from North Missouri to attend the five service academies. It’s a tough and competitive process, but I encourage every student who is interested in attending one of these incredible service academies to apply.”

Individuals interested in applying for a service academy nomination can do so by contacting Congressman Graves’ Kansas City District Office at 816-792-3976 after opening an application with their desired service academy. To be eligible to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, or U.S. Naval Academy, you must:

· Be at least 17 years old, but not have passed the 23rd birthday. (25 for the Merchant Marine Academy).

· Be a U.S. Citizen, and a permanent resident of Missouri.

· Be unmarried, not pregnant, and have no legal obligation to support children or other dependents.

· Meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy

· Be of good moral character

· Have a valid Social Security Number

The deadline for applications for the nomination process is 5:00 pm, October 15th, 2021.

The U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy all have extremely high admissions standards and the nomination process is very competitive. Applicants are evaluated and interviewed by the Academy Nomination Review Board comprised of service academy graduates and citizens of Missouri’s 6th Congressional District before final recommendations are made to Congressman Graves.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-leads-bipartisan-coalition-calling-doj,Congresswoman Ann Wagner Leads Bipartisan Coalition Calling for DOJ to Investigate OnlyFans for Child Exploitation,2021-08-10,2021,2021-08,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, led a letter with 101 of her Republican and Democratic colleagues to the United States Department of Justice. This letter calls on Attorney General Merrick Garland to conduct an investigation into the website OnlyFans.com, focusing on the prevalence of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) on the website and the specific actions OnlyFans takes to ensure minors are protected from exploitation. The presence of CSAM on OnlyFans is undeniable and it appears OnlyFans does not have adequate safeguards or protocols in place to notify the proper authorities when CSAM is found on the website.

The Members said: ""With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing our kids to spend more time isolated and online, it is our responsibility to ensure children are protected from bad actors operating via the internet. Of particular concern is the website OnlyFans.com, which has become a major marketplace for buying and selling Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) in the United States, as well as soliciting sexual activity with minors. We write today to call your attention to potentially illegal activity, including child sexual exploitation, that this website is facilitating. We request the U.S. Department of Justice investigate the content sold on OnlyFans.com, as well as the policies, or lack thereof, that OnlyFans employs to report instances of CSAM or child exploitation on their platform.""

""With the rise in child sexual abuse material online, the U.S. Department of Justice should investigate the growing number of reports by law enforcement and child safety organizations that minors are being sold on OnlyFans. Instances of sex trafficking and image-based abuse through OnlyFans are also coming to light. Like the other major companies in the commercial sex industry – Pornhub, XVideos, XHamster – OnlyFans preys and profits from abuse and exploitation of vulnerable people, and potential criminality must be investigated,"" said Dawn Hawkins, CEO of the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE).

""Online platforms profiting from user content subscriptions must be aware of the inherent risks this model presents to children without appropriate safeguards in place. Children and user safety should not be an afterthought, but a priority of online platforms from launch to current day. Online platforms must utilize sound business practices to help assure they are doing everything possible to prevent child sexual exploitation on their site. Content subscription platforms should prioritize children and user safety as much as they value their bottom line."" said the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)

""The alarming increase of child sexual abuse material and human trafficking being promoted on the OnlyFans.com platform requires immediate attention by the U.S. Department of Justice, state and local law enforcement, and payment providers whose products are being used to purchase troubling content on this platform"" said Lena Walther, Co-Founder of Awareness is Prevention. ""I commend congressional leaders from both parties for encouraging greater scrutiny of OnlyFans.com through this letter and strongly urge a thorough investigation at the highest level of law enforcement,"" she continued.

The full letter is below, and you can see the complete list of Members here.

The Honorable Merrick B. Garland

Attorney General

U.S. Department of Justice

950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20530

Attorney General Garland,

With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing our kids to spend more time isolated and online, it is our responsibility to ensure children are protected from bad actors operating via the internet. Of particular concern is the website OnlyFans.com, which has become a major marketplace for buying and selling Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) in the United States, as well as soliciting sexual activity with minors. We write today to call your attention to potentially illegal activity, including child sexual exploitation, that this website is facilitating. We request the U.S. Department of Justice investigate the content sold on OnlyFans.com, as well as the policies, or lack thereof, that OnlyFans employs to report instances of CSAM or child exploitation on their platform.

The presence of CSAM on OnlyFans is undeniable. Over the past two years, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) has seen a continuously increasing amount of CSAM and child exploitation on OnlyFans. In 2019, NCMEC indicated it was aware of 10 cases involving missing children associated with content sold on OnlyFans. In 2021, NCMEC has identified at least 80 cases in which missing children were linked with OnlyFans content. Moreover, in 2021, the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) named OnlyFans one of the top contributors to online sexual exploitation in the United States.

It appears OnlyFans does not have adequate mechanisms in place to notify the proper authorities when CSAM is found on the website. Earlier this year, law enforcement in Florida's Miami-Dade County arrested two adults for human trafficking, possession of a sexual performance by a child, and promoting the sexual performance by a child. According to law enforcement officials, these arrests were only made possible when a friend of the underage girl saw videos of the victim being exploited on OnlyFans and notified the authorities. With more than 220 million monthly visitors on OnlyFans, the pervasiveness of CSAM on this website, as well as any business practices used to shield such content from scrutiny, must be investigated.

Based on the concerns outlined in this letter, we request that the Department of Justice utilize its authority and resources to conduct a robust investigation into OnlyFans focused on:

The prevalence of CSAM on OnlyFans, and what measures, or lack thereof, OnlyFans employs to prevent, reduce, and respond to CSAM on its platform.

The prevalence of missing or abducted children linked to content on OnlyFans, and the measures, or lack thereof, OnlyFans employs to report such instances to law enforcement.

The use of direct messaging on OnlyFans to solicit prostitution, and the extent to which minors are solicited for prostitution or other services related to sexual activity.

We appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:11:17Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-against-pelosis-massive-spending-spree,Graves Votes Against Pelosi's Massive Spending Spree,2021-07-29,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) released the following statement after voting against Speaker Pelosi’s nearly $700 billion omnibus spending spree.

“This massive omnibus spending bill doesn’t just waste billions of taxpayer dollars, it’s built on a framework that cuts national defense spending below inflation,” said Graves. “Worse still, it redirects those funds needed to keep America safe to career bureaucrats at regulatory agencies like the EPA and IRS so they can harass Americans and issue even more pointless regulations that hold our economy back. We need less government spending and fewer regulations. Sadly, these bills do just the opposite.”

One of the spending measures advanced by Speaker Pelosi this week increases the budget of the IRS by 14 percent, increases the budget of the EPA by 23 percent, and even increases the budget of the White House by 39 percent.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-e-bridge-act-passes-house-transportation-and-infrastructure-committee,Graves' E-BRIDGE Act Passes House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee,2021-07-28,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Sam Graves issued the following statement after his legislation, the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act passed the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee with bipartisan support. The E-BRIDGE Act will now head to the full House for further consideration.

“This is a big step forward for Missourians without access to reliable high-speed broadband internet,” said Graves. “The E-BRIDGE Act breaks down barriers in existing federal grant programs to unlock more funding to get last-mile internet infrastructure projects completed. It doesn’t matter how old you are or where you live, Americans of all walks of life use the internet for everything from precision agriculture, to telemedicine, to school work. It’s critical that we get folks plugged in and I’m grateful my colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together to get this common sense legislation passed out of committee.”

The Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act removes hurdles for broadband projects under EDA grants, including difficult last-mile efforts that often delay rural broadband deployment. It also ensures that local communities can partner with the private sector in carrying out broadband projects and gives communities more flexibility in complying with their funding match requirements. Click here to read the bill.

By helping to increase the reach of broadband to rural and economically distressed communities, the E-BRIDGE Act will help:

Attract new businesses and support current businesses in distressed regions of the country,

Strengthen healthcare systems and delivery of medical care to vulnerable populations,

Lay the groundwork for economic recovery in these areas, and

Better prepare these communities for future disasters or epidemics.

The E-BRIDGE Act helps accomplish these goals because it:

Eliminates barriers to investments in broadband in distressed communities, making them eligible for EDA grants.

Clarifies that eligible recipients may include public-private partnerships and consortiums to leverage private sector expertise in project development.

Provides flexibility in the procurement process to account for limited availability of broadband services in distressed communities.

Clarifies that funds can be combined with other federal resources.

Provides flexibility on accounting for in-kind methods to meet non-federal cost share.

The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management have jurisdiction over the programs of the EDA and its economic development programs.

What They Are Saying:

“Broadband access has been a lifeline during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the past year has shown us just how important it is to get everyone connected. On behalf of NTCA’s members, I want to thank Ranking Member Graves for his demonstrated interest in advancing connectivity through the E-BRIDGE Act. We particularly appreciate this bill’s emphasis on targeting efforts to areas most in need of broadband access and coordinating between various federal programs seeking to help promote such access.” – Shirley Bloomfield, CEO, NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association

“Broadband is critical for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. With 17% of rural Americans still without reliable broadband, the digital divide restricts access to essential education, healthcare and business resources as well as limits farmers’ capacity to use the latest technology to meet sustainability goals. Farm Bureau appreciates Representatives Sam Graves and Michael Guest for introducing the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility Act, a bill that would expand access to broadband by allowing distressed communities to utilize Economic Development Administration grants for broadband deployment.” – Zippy Duvall, President of the American Farm Bureau Federation

“The E-BRIDGE legislation will help support access to high-speed broadband connectivity throughout rural regions. These resources will allow for greater economic resiliency across the country and will help facilitate rural prosperity.” – Joe McKinney, Executive Director, National Association of Development Organizations (NADO). Read the full letter of support from NADO.

“One way to boost productivity and bridge gaps in equity is through investing in digital infrastructure. The App Association supports Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act (H.R. 3193/S. 1695) because this legislation would ensure that economic development organizations, in public-private partnerships or through consortia, can use Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant funds to support broadband deployment.” –Morgan W. Reed, President, ACT | The App Association. Read the full letter of support from ACT.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/missouri-congressional-delegation-members-introduce-resolution-celebrating,Missouri Congressional Delegation Members Introduce Resolution Celebrating State’s Bicentennial,2021-07-27,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Missouri Senators Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley, along with Missouri Representatives Sam Graves, Jason Smith, Vicky Hartzler, Billy Long, Ann Wagner, and Blaine Luetkemeyer, announced that they have introduced a resolution celebrating August 10, 2021, as Missouri’s bicentennial.

“Missourians are tough, no-nonsense doers,” said Graves. “This is the Show Me State and for 200 years we’ve been showing folks how to get things done. Icons like Mark Twain, Gen. John J. Pershing, and Walt Disney have embodied that spirit, but so too have the everyday heroes—the firefighters, farmers, police officers, nurses, doctors, small business owners, teachers, and others who have built this state and this country. I’m incredibly proud to be a sixth-generation Missouri farmer. I’m deeply humbled to take part in this celebration of Missouri’s rich history and the recognition of all those that have shed blood, sweat, and tears to get to this day.”

“You can’t talk about American history without talking about Missouri history,” said Blunt. “From literary giants like Mark Twain and Maya Angelou to political leaders like Harry S. Truman, sports greats like Buck O’Neil and Satchel Paige, and innovators like George Washington Carver and Walt Disney, Missourians have shaped who we are and where we are today. It’s a place where you can live history in places like Ste. Genevieve or the Gateway Arch, or explore national treasures like the Ozarks and Mark Twain National Forest. I’m incredibly proud to represent Missouri in the United States Senate and to join my colleagues in recognizing the state’s bicentennial.”

“200 years ago, Missouri entered the Union as the 24th state. Since then, Missourians have contributed to every aspect of American life; fully embodying the American spirit and making our nation a better place,” said Hawley. “I’m proud to call Missouri home and I’m even more proud to represent hardworking Missourians every day. I invite everyone to join me in celebrating Missouri’s upcoming bicentennial.”

“As we celebrate our 200th year as a state, I’m proud of the Missourians who have left their mark on our state and am looking forward to the remarkable accomplishments from the next generation of trailblazers from the ‘Show-Me’ State,” said Smith. “Hard work and sense of community are why some of the greatest Americans this world has ever known came from Missouri.”

“From our state’s rich history as the ‘Gateway to the West’ to today’s status as a premiere life sciences research hub, two centuries of Missouri’s existence has brought with it prosperity and greatness as America’s 24th state,” said Hartzler. “The Show Me State’s bicentennial is a testament to its great people who have contributed to our nation like George Washington Carver, Harry Truman, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Mark Twain, General John J. Pershing, Edwin Hubble, Walt Disney, and millions of hardworking Missouri individuals who have lived, raised families, and made life better for their friends and neighbors. Missouri’s people, Heartland values, and ideals are the essence of America’s greatness and are worth celebrating. I am proud to commemorate 200 years of its founding and look forward to many more great years to come.”

“This year marks the 200th anniversary of Missouri becoming the 24th state in the Union,"" said Long. “The Show Me State is a great place to live, work and raise a family. We're rich in natural resources and our citizens are known for their work ethic. Our people have always been diverse in culture and resilient in nature. Missourians are patriots and have a strong love of their country and its people. I was born and raised in Missouri and you would have to 'Show-Me' a better state to live in. It is a great honor to be a part of recognizing Missouri’s bicentennial in Congress.”

“I am incredibly grateful to have grown up and raised my family here in the Show Me State,” said Wagner. “The strong Midwestern work ethic and heartland values, historic landmarks such as the Gateway Arch, and championship-winning teams like the Cardinals and the Blues all represent the best of our state and our country. Our greater St. Louis region especially embodies our history as the Gateway to the West, marking our major role in U.S. expansion. Civil rights leaders and explorers all passed through our region here in St. Louis and we know future generations will make history like they did. Missourians take great pride in our state, and we do so because Missouri has so much to offer the nation, including a robust business community, an incredible agricultural sector and a rich history from which we all continue to learn. This year’s bicentennial is a time to celebrate our significant contributions to American culture and recognize how much Missouri has and will always give to our great nation.”

“For 200 years, Missourians have raised families, farmed land, built businesses and made major contributions to American history and society,” said Luetkemeyer. “My family has been fortunate to call Missouri home for six generations and representing this state continues to be the honor of my lifetime. I’m so pleased to celebrate the Bicentennial of the Show Me State and look forward to many more years of Missouri excellence and prosperity.”

Congress and President James Monroe approved statehood and entry into the Union for the Missouri Territory on August 10, 1821, making Missouri the nation’s 24th state and the “Gateway to the West.” The resolution celebrates notable Missourians and recognizes Missouri’s significant contributions to science, entertainment, technology, sports, and agriculture.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/missouri-congressional-delegation-members-introduce-resolution,Missouri Congressional Delegation Members Introduce Resolution Celebrating State’s Bicentennial,2021-07-27,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Missouri Representative Ann Wagner, along with Senators Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley and Missouri Representatives Jason Smith, Sam Graves, Vicky Hartzler, Billy Long, and Blaine Luetkemeyer, announced that they have introduced a resolution celebrating August 10, 2021, as Missouri's bicentennial.

""I am incredibly grateful to have grown up and raised my family here in the Show Me State,"" said Wagner. ""The strong Midwestern work ethic and heartland values, historic landmarks such as the Gateway Arch, and championship-winning teams like the Cardinals and the Blues all represent the best of our state and our country. Our greater St. Louis region especially embodies our history as the Gateway to the West, marking our major role in U.S. expansion. Civil rights leaders and explorers all passed through our region here in St. Louis and we know future generations will make history like they did. Missourians take great pride in our state, and we do so because Missouri has so much to offer the nation, including a robust business community, an incredible agricultural sector and a rich history from which we all continue to learn. This year's bicentennial is a time to celebrate our significant contributions to American culture and recognize how much Missouri has and will always give to our great nation.""

""You can't talk about American history without talking about Missouri history,"" said Blunt. ""From literary giants like Mark Twain and Maya Angelou to political leaders like Harry S. Truman, sports greats like Buck O'Neil and Satchel Paige, and innovators like George Washington Carver and Walt Disney, Missourians have shaped who we are and where we are today. It's a place where you can live history in places like Ste. Genevieve or the Gateway Arch, or explore national treasures like the Ozarks and Mark Twain National Forest. I'm incredibly proud to represent Missouri in the United States Senate and to join my colleagues in recognizing the state's bicentennial.""

""200 years ago, Missouri entered the Union as the 24th state. Since then, Missourians have contributed to every aspect of American life; fully embodying the American spirit and making our nation a better place,"" said Hawley. ""I'm proud to call Missouri home and I'm even more proud to represent hardworking Missourians every day. I invite everyone to join me in celebrating Missouri's upcoming bicentennial.""

""As we celebrate our 200th year as a state, I'm proud of the Missourians who have left their mark on our state and am looking forward to the remarkable accomplishments from the next generation of trailblazers from the ‘Show-Me' State,"" said Smith. ""Hard work and sense of community are why some of the greatest Americans this world has ever known came from Missouri.""

""Missourians are tough, no-nonsense doers,"" said Graves. ""This is the Show Me State and for 200 years we've been showing folks how to get things done. Icons like Mark Twain, Gen. John J. Pershing, and Walt Disney have embodied that spirit, but so too have the everyday heroes—the firefighters, farmers, police officers, nurses, doctors, small business owners, teachers, and others who have built this state and this country.

""From our state's rich history as the ‘Gateway to the West' to today's status as a premiere life sciences research hub, two centuries of Missouri's existence has brought with it prosperity and greatness as America's 24th state,"" said Hartzler. ""The Show Me State's bicentennial is a testament to its great people who have contributed to our nation like George Washington Carver, Harry Truman, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Mark Twain, General John J. Pershing, Edwin Hubble, Walt Disney, and millions of hardworking Missouri individuals who have lived, raised families, and made life better for their friends and neighbors. Missouri's people, Heartland values, and ideals are the essence of America's greatness and are worth celebrating. I am proud to commemorate 200 years of its founding and look forward to many more great years to come.""

""This year marks the 200th anniversary of Missouri becoming the 24th state in the Union,"" said Long. ""The Show Me State is a great place to live, work and raise a family. We're rich in natural resources and our citizens are known for their work ethic. Our people have always been diverse in culture and resilient in nature. Missourians are patriots and have a strong love of their country and its people. I was born and raised in Missouri and you would have to 'Show-Me' a better state to live in. It is a great honor to be a part of recognizing Missouri's bicentennial in Congress.""

""For 200 years, Missourians have raised families, farmed land, built businesses and made major contributions to American history and society,"" said Luetkemeyer. ""My family has been fortunate to call Missouri home for six generations and representing this state continues to be the honor of my lifetime. I'm so pleased to celebrate the Bicentennial of the Show Me State and look forward to many more years of Missouri excellence and prosperity.""

Congress and President James Monroe approved statehood and entry into the Union for the Missouri Territory on August 10, 1821, making Missouri the nation's 24th state and the ""Gateway to the West."" The resolution celebrates notable Missourians and recognizes Missouri's significant contributions to science, entertainment, technology, sports, and agriculture.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-leads-bipartisan-letter-urging-inclusion-anti-trafficking,Wagner Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging Inclusion of Anti-Trafficking Legislation in Future Trade Agreements,2021-07-23,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week Representative Ann Wagner (MO-02) and Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), David Valadao (CA-21), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Austin Scott (GA-08), Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Randy Weber (TX-14), John Katko (NY-24), Chris Stewart (UT-02), and Blake Moore (UT-01) sent a letter to United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai. The letter calls for the U.S. Trade Representative to include the ""Wagner Language"" in future trade agreements to help protect victims of human trafficking. The Wagner Language ensures partner nations are allowed to enact domestic laws that empower victims of human trafficking and hold websites accountable for facilitating the sex trade.

The members wrote: ""We recognize the ongoing debate regarding Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996, both in and outside the context of trade agreements. In addition to the concerns expressed to you by the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, we urge you to ensure that, if Section 230 language is included in future trade agreements, these agreements also incorporate the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement's (USMCA' s) ""Wagner Language"" to prevent online human trafficking and online child exploitation.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-voca-fix-legislation-signed-law,Wagner VOCA Fix Legislation Signed Into Law,2021-07-22,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after President Joe Biden signed into law her VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act:

""I am extremely happy to announce the President signed into law my VOCA Fix Act today. This is incredible news for victims of traumatic crimes like sexual assault, human trafficking, and child abuse, and sends a strong message to survivors that we will always be in their corner fighting for them. Now we must continue working closely with victim service organizations to ensure they have the resources necessary to help survivors find justice and rebuild their lives.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/senate-passes-wagner-legislation-support-victims-traumatic-crimes,Senate Passes Wagner Legislation to Support Victims of Traumatic Crimes,2021-07-20,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after the United States Senate passed the VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act, her legislation that will prevent catastrophic cuts to already diminished federal grants supporting services for victims of serious crimes.

""VOCA funding is absolutely essential to survivor recovery. We are at risk of a devastating funding crisis for victims if the VOCA Fix Act is not signed into law and I thank my colleagues in the Senate for finally passing this important legislation. I call on President Biden to sign it into law without delay so victims can have confidence we have their backs as they work to find justice and we hold violent perpetrators accountable.""

This legislation now goes to President Biden for his signature.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-successfully-pushes-white-house-drop-disastrous-proposal-would-have,Graves Successfully Pushes White House to Drop Disastrous Proposal That Would Have Hurt Small Cities and Rural Communities,2021-07-14,2021,2021-07,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO) is celebrating the decision to drop a proposal before the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to redefine a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The proposal would have raised the threshold for an MSA from 50,000 residents to 100,000, which would have eliminated 144 areas from the designation, including St. Joseph.

The move to drop the proposal comes after a June 30th letter in which Graves joined Governor Mike Parson, Senators Roy Blunt and Josh Hawley, and Representatives Jason Smith, Blaine Luetkemeyer, Vicky Hartzler, Ann Wagner, and Billy Long expressing deep concerns about how the proposal would harm cities stuck in the crosshairs like St. Joseph. Some federal programs and grants utilize the MSA standards to determine eligibility.

“After fielding complaints about this bonehead idea for months, I’m glad the pencil-pushing bureaucrats over at the OMB finally found some common sense,” said Graves. “I’m grateful we were able to talk some sense into them and get this straightened out. This is far from the only example of executive overreach coming out of Washington these days. I’m going to keep holding their feet to the fire and make sure they know what kind of impact proposals like these will have on working Missourians.”

You can read the June 30th letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:03:51Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-leads-opposition-speaker-pelosis-my-way-or-highway-20-bill,Graves Leads Opposition to Speaker Pelosi’s My Way or the Highway 2.0 Bill,2021-06-30,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO), Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led conservatives on the floor of the United States House of Representatives today in opposing H.R. 3684.

""This bill is nothing more than the Green New Deal with a little infrastructure sprinkled on top,"" said Graves. ""It's completely unpaid for and it does nothing to fix the broken bureaucratic system that drags out major highway projects for years and eats up almost 30 percent of our transportation dollars. We need real bipartisan solutions to fix real infrastructure in America. This bill doesn't do that, it's just the first step in the Speaker's $6 trillion spending plan that will drive more inflation—increasing the price of everything from gas to groceries and taxing middle-class families.""

The referenced media source is missing and needs to be re-embedded.

Click to watch Congressman Graves' Remarks

Click to read Congressman Graves' Opening Remarks

Earlier this year, Congressman Graves introduced the STARTER Act 2.0, which lays out a clear framework for responsibly investing in real infrastructure—like our roads and bridges. You can read more about the STARTER Act 2.0 here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-joins-bipartisan-bicameral-call-civil-rights-icon-curt-floods,"Wagner Joins Bipartisan, Bicameral Call for Civil Rights Icon Curt Flood’s Induction into Baseball Hall of Fame after COVID Postponed Last Year’s Vote",2021-06-28,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), alongside U.S. Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Reps. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), David Trone (D-MD), and Cori Bush (D-MO) sent a letter to the Chair of the Board of the National Baseball Hall of Fame urging the induction of All-Star baseball player Curt Flood into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Flood is well known for transforming professional sports when he challenged Major League Baseball's (MLB) reserve system and helped create free agency within the MLB and other major sports leagues.

""Cardinals baseball is more than just a pastime for St. Louisans. Our team and its players have a profound impact on our community; however, perhaps no other Cardinal has made a larger impact on Major League Baseball than Curt Flood. Not only did he amaze fans with his talents on the field, Curt Flood also changed the way players are treated off the field. I am honored to join my colleagues in both the House and Senate to urge the Golden Era Committee to nominate and induct Curt Flood into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame,"" said Rep. Wagner.

""Curt Flood was a trailblazer in the world of professional sports and workers' rights,"" said Rep. David Trone. ""Flood stood up for what he believed in even though he knew it would mean the end of his career. If it wasn't for Flood, professional athletes wouldn't have free agency to own their own career. Let's finally recognize Flood for both his incredible talent as a three-time all-star and his courageous and selfless efforts.""

""I'm proud to stand with my colleagues and baseball fans nationwide in calling for Curt Flood's induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame,"" said Sen. Blunt. ""He had an incredibly successful career on the field, leading the Cardinals to two World Series championships and earning seven consecutive Gold Gloves. Guided by his principles, he made the brave decision to challenge the league's reserve clause, knowing full well that it could jeopardize his career. If Curt Flood's letter is in the Hall of Fame, Curt Flood should be there too.""

""Curt Flood had a remarkable career on and off the field. He risked everything to ensure players had a say in their careers by challenging the reserve clause. His life should be honored in the halls of Cooperstown so baseball fans, young and old, can learn about the impact he had on the game,"" said Sen. Durbin.

""Today, St. Louis and I honor the legacy of Missouri's own Curt Flood by recognizing his accomplishments and sacrifices in his relentless struggle to assert his rights against the MLB reserve clause,"" said Rep. Cori Bush. ""I am proud to join my colleagues in urging Mr. Flood be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame to preserve his historic legacy and contributions.""

""While Curt Flood was a phenomenal ballplayer, his most profound impact came off the field when he demanded major leaguers be afforded the fundamental right to have a say in where one lives and labors,"" said Rep. Cleaver. ""His principled stand changed the game of baseball for the benefit of everyone playing today, and his legacy is one that few in Cooperstown could match. I'm proud to join my colleagues in a bipartisan call for Curt Flood to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame—an honor of which he is more than deserving.""

Last year, a bipartisan and bicameral coalition of 102 Members of Congress led by Trone celebrated the 50th anniversary of Flood's accomplishments and sent a letter to the National Baseball Hall of Fame urging the induction of Curt Flood. Due to the pandemic, the Hall of Fame had to postpone their meeting last year, which will now take place this year.

The 2020 effort was endorsed by the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA), and the Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA). It was also endorsed by UNITE HERE, a labor union that represents 300,000 working people across Canada and the United States in the hotel, gaming, food service, manufacturing, textile, distribution, laundry, transportation, and airport industries.

The group held a press conference including remarks with Curt Flood's widow, Judy Pace Flood, which you can watch here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-joins-colleagues-sound-alarm-biden-administrations-plan-redefine-wotus,Graves Joins Colleagues to Sound Alarm on Biden Administration’s Plan to Redefine WOTUS,2021-06-25,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO), Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, joined Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC) and other top Republican leaders in outlining their concerns regarding the Biden administration's intention to undo the Trump administration's Navigable Waters Protection Rule. The Biden administration's recent announcement signaled its intent to revise the definition of the ""waters of the United States"" (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act and potentially return to Obama-era regulations that harmed farmers, businesses, states, local governments, and families throughout the country.

The Members of Congress sent a letterto Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan and Acting Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jaime Pinkham. Joining Rep. Graves and Rep. Rouzer on the letter were House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA), House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Glenn ‘GT' Thompson (R-PA), Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Bruce Westerman (R-AR), and Small Business Committee Ranking Member Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO), in addition to a number of other Republican Members. In total, 126 Members of Congress signed the letter.

The Members wrote, ""With all the other crises confronting our nation it makes little sense to unravel a final rule that has taken decades of Agency action, litigation, and legislation to settle. Instead, we encourage the Administration to focus its attention and resources on the more pressing economic and international issues confronting our nation such as inflation, the border crisis, the safety of our communities, reopening schools, and protecting America from our adversaries who seek to do us harm.""

However, if the Biden administration chooses to continue with its plans to redefine WOTUS, the Members cautioned: ""We are concerned that the approach the Agencies intend to take in revising this important regulation will regress from the clarity provided by the Navigable Waters Protection Rule, and will reimpose a vastly overbroad interpretation of Federal jurisdiction over waters around the Nation.""

They urged the Agencies not to ignore the input of the general public, small businesses, Federal and state agencies, and the rest of the regulated community to create another rule that provides less regulatory certainty, as occurred under the Obama administration.

The Members wrote, ""The Obama Administration's overreaching WOTUS rule had a disastrous effect on farmers, businesses, and families. That rule drew substantial opposition from states, local governments, and citizens across the Nation challenging the overbreadth of the definitions included. The regulatory burden placed on average Americans and the effect on the economy would be detrimental if the Agencies were to remove the definitions included in the Navigable Waters Protection Rule, especially as we look to restart the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic. If we want to help get Americans back to work, the Administration cannot continue to propose partisan executive and legislative actions which will only slow down or reverse the economic recovery. Instead, we must have reasonable regulation to enable Americans to thrive and to grow our Nation's economy, including in rural and other underserved parts of the country. To do this, the Agencies must keep in mind the multitude of concerns and issues previously raised about the Obama Administration's WOTUS rule and maintain the updated definitions of the Navigable Waters Protection Rule.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-urges-biden-administration-maintain-pork-processing-capacity,Graves Urges Biden Administration to Maintain Pork Processing Capacity,2021-06-25,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Upon news that the United States District Court vacated a portion of the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) New Swine Inspection System (NSIS) rule on administrative grounds, Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) urged USDA Secretary Vilsack and Acting Solicitor General Prelogar to take immediate action to preserve swine processing capacity.

""This decision could cost hog farmers more than $80 million this year alone,"" said Graves. ""Pork producers already weathered a tough 2020, when many were forced to kill thousands of head because packing plants closed and slowed down to deal with COVID-19. We simply can't afford to lose processing capacity to administrative technicalities. The Administration needs to move quickly to fix this.""

The Court ruling, which determined the USDA didn't satisfy the Administrative Procedures Act, would reduce national packing capacity by 2.5 percent, according to research from Dr. Dermot Hayes at Iowa State University. That reduction would create a surplus of hogs on the market, dropping prices by $10.70/cwt or roughly $23.22 per animal. The total economic loss of this decision on U.S. hog farmers is estimated at $80 million in 2021 alone.

Congressman Graves joined 72 other members of Congress in requesting the Biden Administration take action to defend the NSIS program through all available channels to preserve packing capacity.

You can read the full text of Congressman Graves' letter to Secretary Vilsack here.

You can read the full text of Congressman Graves' letter to Acting Solicitor General Prelogar here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-wagner-beatty-and-sens-brown-blunt-durbin-introduce-bipartisan,"Reps. Wagner, Beatty and Sens. Brown, Blunt, Durbin Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Housing Services for Survivors of Human Trafficking",2021-06-16,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Dick Durbin (D-IL), as well as U.S. Representatives Joyce Beatty (D-OH) and Ann Wagner (R-MO), introduced legislation that would commission a study reviewing current homelessness and housing services for survivors of trafficking. The bill was previously introduced in 2019 and 2018.

""Victims of human trafficking often have unstable housing situations and can be at risk of homelessness. This legislation will support survivors at an incredibly vulnerable time in their lives and help ensure they have appropriate and safe housing during their recovery. We have a responsibility to help those in need, especially trafficking survivors who are looking to rebuild their lives and find justice,"" said Wagner.

""To fight back against human trafficking, we have to address the affordable housing crisis,"" said Brown. ""This bill will focus on improving housing and homeless services for trafficking survivors to help them rebuild their lives – as well as confront the housing issues that make people vulnerable to this heinous crime in the first place. We must do more to ensure survivors – young people in foster care, families of child victims, and individuals at risk of trafficking – have access to safe housing that meets their needs. I look forward to working with Senators Blunt and Durbin and Representatives Joyce Beatty and Ann Wagner to pass this bipartisan bill.""

""We can help survivors of human trafficking rebuild their lives by making sure they have access to safe, affordable housing,"" said Blunt. ""This bill will help us find solutions on how we can improve housing services and reduce homelessness, which will help protect survivors and address a root cause of this inexcusable crime. All of our colleagues should support this bipartisan, bicameral bill that will help ensure trafficking survivors have access to affordable housing and the safe, stable foundation it provides.""

""In addressing the human trafficking crisis, we must ensure that survivors have adequate support to rebuild their lives. A safe, stable home is fundamental to recovery,"" said Durbin. ""I'm committed to supporting the survivors of this global scourge, and with this, we can collect the necessary data to create a survivor-centered approach that will offer the necessary resources, including housing, to help people move forward and prevent vulnerable populations from falling victim to trafficking.""

""Every year, the State Department estimates that nearly 25 million people are victims of human trafficking, the vast majority of whom are women and girls. This harmful practice must be stopped, so I am joining forces with Senator Brown, Congresswoman Wagner, and fellow congressional colleagues to stand up for victims. I call on all Senators and Members of Congress to do the same. Support the Trafficking Survivors Housing Act—because one victim is one too many,"" said Beatty.

""We're glad to see Senator Sherrod Brown and Representative Joyce Beatty leading on this issue once again, especially since Ohio ranks among the 10 worst states for human trafficking. This bill focuses on a critical vulnerability. The lack of a safe, affordable place to live is a big reason why so many young people and immigrants fall victim to sex and labor traffickers and have great difficulty escaping from it. Housing, with supportive services, is key for getting survivors to safety and protecting potential victims from these heinous crimes. It is past time for the federal government to develop a multi-agency coordinated approach to addressing this exploitation,"" said Bill Faith, Executive Director, Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO).

""The vulnerability caused by homelessness, or the risk of it, is too often a factor in human trafficking. Stable housing is needed to protect people from trafficking, and to help them recover from it. This important bill would examine what different federal agencies can and should do to eliminate the link between homelessness and trafficking,"" said Nan Roman, President and CEO, National Alliance to End Homelessness.

""Shared Hope International supports the Trafficking Survivors Housing Act and thanks Senator Brown, Senator Blunt and Senator Durbin, along with Congresswoman Beatty and Congresswoman Wagner, for introducing this critical legislation. Access to safe and supportive housing for trafficking survivors is essential to breaking the cycle of vulnerability and exploitation that survivors so often experience. And yet, service providers and survivors themselves report that the lack of safe and stable housing for those who have experienced trafficking is becoming a crisis in many areas of the country. Additionally, housing can be a lifeline to vulnerable individuals who are at risk of trafficking, potentially preventing victimization from occurring. By directing a study of housing availability, accessibility and appropriateness, this bill will help identify the barriers that must be addressed to meet the housing needs of trafficking survivors and those at risk of trafficking,"" said Linda Smith (U.S. Congress 1994-98), President and Founder, Shared Hope International.

The bill text is available here. A one-pager on the bill is available here.

Background

There is a severe shortage of affordable housing nationally, and due to funding limitations, federal rental assistance reaches just one-in-four eligible households. The U.S. Federal Strategic Action Plan on Services for Victims of Human Trafficking reported that ""sustainable housing is a significant issue in achieving long-term recovery and self-sufficiency for human trafficking survivors.""

The Trafficking Survivors Housing Act of 2021 would require the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) to commission a study and report in partnership with federal agencies, survivors, and the organizations that serve them on the availability and accessibility of homelessness and housing services for survivors of trafficking. The study would:

review the effectiveness of current policy and procedures and report on the impact of such policies on the ability to provide sustainable, affordable, and safe housing options for survivors of trafficking, including families of minor victims and youth in foster care;

build on trauma-informed and evidence-based frameworks to assess the capacity of mainstream housing services to meet the distinct and specialized needs of both labor and sex trafficking survivors, including survivors disability-related needs; and

identify barriers to and best practices for meeting the housing and service needs of survivors of trafficking.

Supporting organizations and stakeholders include:

180 Demo

Advocating Opportunity

Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

Child Welfare League of America

Children's Lantern

CleanTurn Cleaning Service

Coalition Against Trafficking in Women (CAT-W)

Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio (COHHIO)

Covenant House

Family Promise Delaware Ohio

Franciscan Action Network

Great Lakes Community Action Partnership

Human Service Chamber of Franklin County

Kaleidoscope Youth Center

Love146

Lucas County Human Trafficking Coalition

Lucas County Metropolitan Housing

National Alliance to End Homelessness

National Association of Evangelicals

National Crittenton

National Housing Law Project

National Low Income Housing Coalition

North Carolina Stop Human Trafficking

Oasis House

Polaris

Rights4Girls

Shared Hope International

She Has A Name

State Representative Michael Sheehy (D-46)

State Senator Teresa Fedor (D-11)

StreetGrace

The Cocoon - Domestic Violence shelter in Wood County

The Recovery Council

The Salvation Army USA

Thirdway Café

Toledo Lucas County Homelessness Board

Trafficking in America Task Force",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-bill-protecting-flood-victims-passes-house,Graves’ Bill Protecting Flood Victims Passes House,2021-06-15,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves' (MO-06) Preventing Disaster Revictimization Act (H.R. 539) passed the House of Representatives today with broad bipartisan support.

H.R. 539 requires FEMA to waive the debt of individuals whom the agency mistakenly awards assistance to, so long as no fraud has been committed. It further requires FEMA to report to Congress on the number of mistakes the agency makes in individual assistance award determinations and take steps to minimize such mistakes in the future.

""This legislation is absolutely critical for helping communities recover after disasters,"" said Graves. ""Disaster victims need to know they can use relief money to rebuild their homes and their lives without the fear that FEMA will come back weeks, months, or even years later demanding those funds back through no fault of their own. This bill gives disaster victims the confidence they need to get back on their feet, while holding FEMA accountable for their own mistakes.""

Click here to view Graves' remarks on the House floor.

Graves introduced the bill after FEMA clawed back individual assistance funds from a Holt County resident following the Flood of 2019. The individual in question lost his family home and was mistakenly provided over $12,000 in FEMA Individual Assistance money to help him get back on his feet, only to be told later he didn't qualify and would have to pay it back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-introduces-legislation-hold-china-accountable,"Congresswoman Ann Wagner Introduces Legislation To Hold China Accountable, Force Compensation",2021-06-15,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement after she introduced legislation to hold China accountable for its actions during the COVID-19 outbreak:

""China took deliberate, reckless action that allowed the coronavirus to spread, killing millions worldwide. This is not a matter up for debate, and they must be held accountable. When the world should have been working together to respond to the coronavirus outbreak, China was silencing scientists who dared speak out. The Compensation for Americans Act will make sure China pays for their corrupt, unethical, and dangerous actions. I introduced similar legislation last Congress, but Democrats blocked it from a vote. It's time to pass the Compensation for Americans Act and send a message to China that the United States will not stand for such horrific acts.""

The Compensation for Americans Act directs the President to employ a series of tools, including the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-warns-against-reviving-wotus,Graves Warns Against Reviving WOTUS,2021-06-14,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) sent a clear message today that any attempt to revive the Obama-era WOTUS rule would be met with staunch resistance in Congress and from farmers and ranchers across America.

""The Obama-era WOTUS rule was a direct assault on farm families everywhere,"" said Graves. ""Farmers and ranchers across America came together to fight this blatant executive overreach. If the current Administration tries to bring that regulation back from the dead, you better believe we aren't going to twiddle our thumbs and let it happen.""

Graves' warning comes on the heels of a recent announcement by EPA Administrator Michael Regan that the agency is seeking to roll back the Navigable Waters Protection Rule, which supplanted the Obama Administration's WOTUS Rule. The Navigable Waters Protection rule provided a balanced approach to protect private property rights and our nation's waterways. It also revoked the EPA's authority to regulate the management of more than 99 percent of Missouri farmland.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-announces-suburban-caucus-task-force-chairs,Congresswoman Ann Wagner Announces Suburban Caucus Task Force Chairs,2021-06-09,2021,2021-06,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, today announced the Suburban Caucus Task Force Chairs for the 117th Congress:

""I am excited to announce our Suburban Caucus Task Force Chairs for the 117th Congress. As Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi continue to push liberal policies that threaten the economic security of American families, it is critical we push back against their dangerous ideas. The Suburban Caucus is poised to do just that by crafting and promoting common sense legislation that will stand as a stark contrast to the Democrats' radical agenda. In the first five months of Joe Biden's Administration we have already seen higher prices at the grocery store, and the highest gas prices in years. The Socialist ideas coming out of Joe Biden's Administration are hurting Missouri families and they must be challenged. I am ready to work with our Task Force Chairs on behalf of American and Missouri families who need our help in this perilous time.""

Task Force Chairs

Congressman French Hill (AR-02) - Preparing Families for the Future

Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (IN-02) - Safety and Stability

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) - Better Infrastructure for our Future

Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02)- Promises Made, Commitments Earned",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:57:00Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-demands-speaker-pelosi-investigate-origins-covid-19,Graves Demands Speaker Pelosi Investigate Origins of COVID-19,2021-05-28,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined more than 200 colleagues today in calling on Speaker Pelosi to direct her committee chairs to look into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic started, the House of Representatives has held zero hearings on the origins of the virus and the Chinese Communist Party's coverup.

""Americans deserve answers,"" said Graves. ""Every mother who lost a son, every father who lost a daughter, child who lost a parent or grandparent—every American who lost a loved one deserves to know how this pandemic started. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests it may have started in a Chinese lab and the Chinese Communist Party covered it up. We have to investigate that and take steps to ensure nothing like this ever happens again.""

In the letter, the members request that Speaker Pelosi immediately direct the appropriate committee chairs to launch an investigation into the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter notes the recent revelation that three researchers from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology became ill and sought hospital care in November 2019, a full month before China publicly reported any cases of the virus. It also raises concerns that the World Health Organization failed to conduct a thorough and independent review of the origins of the virus and their report was heavily influenced by the Chinese Communist Party, which restricted access to raw data.

Click here for the full text of the letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-introduces-modernizing-disclosures-investors-act,Wagner Introduces Modernizing Disclosures for Investors Act,2021-05-24,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, released the following statement after she introduced the Modernizing Disclosures for Investors Act, legislation that would require the SEC to implement rules simplifying the quarterly financial reporting regime for SEC registrants. This would allow issuers of securities traded on a national securities exchange to disclose quarterly financial information in a simplified manner.

""Current reporting requirements can be overly burdensome for companies, especially for smaller and emerging businesses who may not have the resources to adequately manage the complex reports the SEC requires. My legislation would institute appropriate reforms and simplify the disclosure process. These reforms would benefit both businesses and Main Street investors by lowering administrative burdens on companies and increasing transparency for investors looking to make informed and sound choices.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-introduces-starter-act-20-investment-roads-bridges-transit-and-highway,"Graves Introduces the STARTER Act 2.0 – an Investment in Roads, Bridges, Transit, and Highway Safety",2021-05-19,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Sam Graves (R-MO) and other Republican Committee leaders today introduced a long-term surface transportation reauthorization bill that provides historic levels of investment in America's roads, bridges, and core infrastructure to meet the Nation's growing transportation needs.

The Surface Transportation Advanced through Reform, Technology, & Efficient Review (STARTER) Act 2.0 provides more than $400 billion over five years – the largest percentage increase for these programs in the last quarter-century – for the federal highway, transit, and motor carrier and highway safety programs.

Reforms in the bill will also cut red tape to get meaningful transportation improvements completed in a timely manner, making federal investment go farther by actually getting projects done with fewer delays. The legislation lays out key Republican principles for a much-needed bipartisan agreement to authorize these programs before October, and it's based upon similar legislation introduced last year with input from Committee and House Members, the transportation community, and others.

""I strongly believe that the path to improving America's infrastructure is through partnership – not partisanship. Republicans want to work together on bipartisan infrastructure solutions, but in order to reach that goal, key principles must be addressed in this process,"" said Graves. ""The STARTER Act 2.0 puts forward our Republican principles; provides historic levels of funding for our roads, bridges, and other surface transportation infrastructure; and ensures that we invest those funds wisely and efficiently.

Graves continued, ""Our bill focuses on the core infrastructure that helps move people and goods through our communities every single day, cuts red tape that holds up project construction, and gets resources into the hands of our states and locals with as few strings attached as possible. As the process for considering legislation on infrastructure moves forward, I am eager to see these proposals become part of a robust bipartisan effort – just as the President continues to call for.""

The STARTER Act 2.0:

Authorizes over $400 billion over five years – the largest percentage increase for surface transportation programs in the last quarter-century.

Prioritizes proven programs that address core infrastructure functions – by improving our core system of highways and bridges, facilitating commerce, and focusing on safety and efficiency.

Streamlines project delivery – by cutting red tape to reduce project delays and costs, putting federal dollars to work faster to improve our transportation system.

Meets rural America's infrastructure needs – by investing in small and rural communities, where 71% of public road mileage runs.

Ensures flexibility for states and non-federal partners – by giving states more decision-making authority to meet their own unique infrastructure needs.

Fosters transportation innovation and technology – helping to improve transportation efficiency, safety, resiliency, and the environment.

Works to sustain the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) – by recognizing that continued reliance on fuel taxes is not a long-term solution to HTF solvency.

Supports building more resilient infrastructure – because every $1 invested in mitigation and resiliency saves $4 to $11, reduces risk, and saves lives.

Click here for the legislative text of the STARTER Act.

Click here for a section-by-section summary of the STARTER Act.

In addition to today's introduction of the STARTER Act, Graves also introduced legislation last week to expand rural broadband and invest in clean water infrastructure.

Click herefor more information about the Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act.

Click here for more information about the Wastewater Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2021.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-rocket-attacks-against-israel,Wagner Statement on Rocket Attacks Against Israel,2021-05-15,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on the rocket attacks against Israel:

""I will be perfectly clear on this fact: Israel has a right to defend itself. The ongoing rocket salvos fired on Israel by Hamas are horrific terrorist attacks and they have killed too many innocent civilians. I am calling on all of my colleagues in Congress to condemn these attacks. The United States must support Israel's right to exist, and it is critical we have a unified front in defense of our ally as they fight back against brutal and indiscriminate attacks. Congress must also continue to support Israeli defense programs like the Iron Dome, a system we have seen save countless lives this past week alone. Now is not the time to back down from one of our strongest allies while terrorists continue to take aim at innocent men and women.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-introduces-legislation-invest-clean-water-infrastructure,Graves Introduces Legislation to Invest in Clean Water Infrastructure,2021-05-14,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee helped introduce legislation this week that will help states and local communities – including small and rural communities – address their wastewater infrastructure needs. The bill improves the wastewater infrastructure permitting process and provides flexibility communities often need to take on complex projects.

Graves introduced the Wastewater Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2021 along with Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Ranking Member David Rouzer (R-NC) and U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-AK).

""States and communities across the country face tight budgets and difficult choices with the amount of resources that are available to them – especially our rural and smaller communities. That's why this bill is so important,"" said Graves. ""The Wastewater Infrastructure Improvement Act provides for critical investments, reduces bureaucratic burdens at the local level, and gives communities more tools and flexibility to address their substantial wastewater infrastructure needs. I look forward to working with the Chair and members of the Majority to reach bipartisan agreement on these important issues just as we did last Congress.""

The legislation authorizes federal funding for major Clean Water Act infrastructure programs administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program, the primary source of federal assistance to states and communities for wastewater infrastructure construction. Clean Water SRF capitalization grants are commonly used by the states to help communities fund sewer overflow and stormwater projects, water pollution control activities, and water recycling and reuse projects.

This bill largely reflects a bipartisan agreement reached last Congress on similar legislation the Committee approved, including agreed upon authorization levels.

Highlights of the Wastewater Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2021:

Reauthorizes the Clean Water SRF program for the first time since 1994 at levels ($14 billion over five years) ensuring real progress will be made in tackling needed wastewater projects.

Reauthorizes other important clean water programs, including for providing assistance to states in implementing state water quality improvement programs and sewer overflow and stormwater management projects.

Reduces red tape and encourages long-term planning by providing additional permit flexibility with longer permit terms to help communities address local water quality challenges.

Provides resources for technical assistance to small and rural municipalities struggling to address their wastewater infrastructure needs.

Provides additional flexibility for our cities and towns to pursue the utility upgrades that are best for them, not what is dictated by Washington.

Click here to read the Wastewater Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2021, and click here for a section-by-section summary of the bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-introduces-bill-spur-high-speed-broadband-projects-rural-communities-0,Graves Introduces Bill to Spur High-Speed Broadband Projects in Rural Communities,2021-05-13,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – A bill to remove barriers for communities seeking to use Economic Development Administration (EDA) grants to develop high-speed broadband access was introduced in the House of Representatives today by Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Sam Graves (MO-06) and Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS).

The Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-BRIDGE) Act removes hurdles for broadband projects under EDA grants, including difficult last-mile efforts that often delay rural broadband deployment. It also ensures that local communities can partner with the private sector in carrying out broadband projects and gives communities more flexibility in complying with their funding match requirements. Click here to read the bill.

""Over the last year, Americans have had to work, go to school, buy food and supplies, and receive critical medical care all without leaving their homes. The one thing that has made this feasible for many is high-speed broadband. Unfortunately, too many of our communities, particularly in rural America, still lack broadband access. In some cases, just completing that ‘last mile' is what stands in the way of connecting people to a job or the services they need,"" Graves said. ""The E-BRIDGE Act bill will help spur projects that get our rural and poor communities online, for better preparing them for medical emergencies such as the current pandemic and for attracting jobs and business for future economic development.""

By helping to increase the reach of broadband to rural and economically distressed communities, the E-BRIDGE Act will help:

Attract new businesses and support current businesses in distressed regions of the country,

Strengthen healthcare systems and delivery of medical care to vulnerable populations,

Lay the groundwork for economic recovery in these areas, and

Better prepare these communities for future disasters or epidemics.

The E-BRIDGE Act helps accomplish these goals because it:

· Eliminates barriers to investments in broadband in distressed communities, making them eligible for EDA grants.

· Clarifies that eligible recipients may include public-private partnerships and consortiums to leverage private sector expertise in project development.

· Provides flexibility in the procurement process to account for limited availability of broadband services in distressed communities.

· Clarifies that funds can be combined with other federal resources.

· Provides flexibility on accounting for in-kind methods to meet non-federal cost share.

The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management have jurisdiction over the programs of the EDA and its economic development programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-announces-suburban-caucus-executive-director,Wagner Announces Suburban Caucus Executive Director,2021-05-07,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, today announced Jamie Robinette is the new Executive Director of the House Suburban Caucus:

""I am excited to say Jamie Robinette is our new Executive Director of the Suburban Caucus. Jamie has twenty years of experience in Congress managing and building coalitions, and she is well-equipped to help us build on our conservative policies to help suburban Americans in Missouri and throughout America.

""Jamie will take our operation to the next level as we craft legislative initiatives that will address the important issues facing our suburban communities. She has the relevant personal experience with suburban issues and is uniquely suited to lead our policy teams as we work to make life easier for hard-working American families.""

Background",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-and-cleaver-recognize-americas-teachers-during-national-teacher,Graves and Cleaver Recognize America’s Teachers During National Teacher Appreciation Week,2021-05-04,2021,2021-05,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-05) recognized the hard work and dedication of America's teachers today with the introduction of a resolution honoring their service during National Teacher Appreciation Week.

""Being a teacher is never easy and this year has been more difficult than most,"" said Rep. Graves. ""Our teachers constantly go above and beyond to prepare our children for the future. They put in endless hours and some of their own paychecks to help shape today's children into tomorrow's leaders. We really can't thank them enough for all they do. I'm proud to be joined by my friend and colleague, Congressman Cleaver, in introducing this resolution honoring the efforts of America's teachers.""

""Teachers play an integral role in every single community across this nation—and over the last year, that has been demonstrated more clearly than ever,"" said Congressman Cleaver. ""I don't know an individual who can't point to a teacher who made an indelible impact on their life, yet they rarely get the recognition they rightfully deserve. During Teacher Appreciation Week, we have an opportunity to show our gratitude to the teachers who have helped shape us into the people we are today. I'm proud to join Congressman Graves in introducing this resolution to show my heartfelt appreciation for the incredible work teachers do every day to serve the children who will one day lead this country. Thank you for all that you do!""

Congressman Graves and Congressman Cleaver announced the introduction of their resolution honoring America's teachers during National Teacher Appreciation Week at Chouteau Elementary in Kansas City, Missouri. The school is located in the North Kansas City School District, represented by both Graves and Cleaver. You can watch the announcement video here.

The full text of the resolution, H. Res. 362, is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:49:40Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-statement-president-bidens-address-congress,Graves Statement on President Biden’s Address to Congress,2021-04-28,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after President Biden's address to a Joint Session of Congress:

""On day one, President Biden promised bipartisanship and unity. Nearly 100 days later, and we've seen too little of that. From a bloated COVID ""relief"" bill that spent less than 9 percent on actual COVID relief to a border crisis only made worse by promises of amnesty and open borders, the last 100 days have too often been anything but bipartisan.""

""If there's one thing that both Republicans and Democrats can agree on, it's that we need to fix our aging infrastructure. There are no Republican roads or Democrat bridges—only the critical infrastructure we all rely on every day. We can—and should—work together to find a bipartisan solution to America's infrastructure problem that focuses on actual infrastructure, without breaking the bank. This would be a perfect opportunity for the President to live up to his promise to the American people.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-bidens-radical-speech,Congresswoman Ann Wagner on Biden’s Radical Speech,2021-04-28,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on President Joe Biden's speech to a Joint Session of Congress:

""Joe Biden had an opportunity to reach across the aisle to Republicans today and find bipartisan solutions to the problems our nation is facing. There is an unprecedented crisis at the border and a pandemic that is still harming our communities, but instead of working to fix these major issues, he decided to go all in on radically liberal policies.

""Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress are using every tool at their disposal to increase government control over our lives and raise your taxes, and this speech tonight just proved it. I am here in Congress to work for stronger borders, get our economy reopened, and make sure precious, innocent babies are protected. Once again, President Biden pushed a liberal agenda that is simply out of step with the average American.

""These big government mandates coming from the Biden Administration are going to hurt our fellow citizens, not help them. Every day I talk to Missourians who want nothing to do with the socialist policies the Democrats are proposing, and I am working to make sure these radical ideas don't irreparably alter our conservative, Midwest values we hold so dear.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-wagner-barr-and-zeldin-lead-call-state-department-ig-investigation,"Reps Wagner, Barr and Zeldin Lead Call for State Department IG Investigation into Kerry over Iran Bombshell",2021-04-28,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, three GOP House Foreign Affairs Committee Members, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY), U.S. Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) and U.S. Congressman Lee Zeldin (R-NY), wrote to the U.S. State Department Inspector General to demand an investigation into Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry. A bombshell report and an audio recording released on Monday by the New York Times, indicated that Kerry, the former U.S. Secretary of State, leaked sensitive intelligence about alleged Israeli military operationsin Syria against Iranian interests to the Foreign Minister of Iran, Javid Zarif.

""The claims against Special Envoy Kerry are of grave concern, and the Biden Administration must conduct a full investigation into his potentially dangerous relationship with Iranian leaders,"" said Congresswoman Wagner. ""A leak of this nature threatens our national security and betrays our allies. The Biden Administration must take decisive action to determine whether Special Envoy Kerry should continue to serve in his current role, and whether or not allies can trust him to safeguard our shared interests.""

""If this report is true, Secretary Kerry severely undermined the American-Israeli alliance to provide intelligence about one of our most trusted allies to the world's largest state-sponsor of terrorism,"" said Congressman Barr. ""John Kerry and Joe Biden have proven to be pro-Iranian before by championing the failed Iran Nuclear Deal, but this type of betrayal of a staunch ally is simply unconscionable. We need the Inspector General to launch an immediate, impartial investigation to determine the validity of these claims.""

""The State Department must investigate the massively alarming allegations that John Kerry leaked information to Iran on covert Israeli military operations. If it's proven that Kerry actively undermined one of America's staunchest allies, he needs to resign from the Biden administration immediately and have his security clearance revoked,"" said Congressman Zeldin.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-calls-joe-biden-allow-states-lower-taxes-stop,"Congresswoman Ann Wagner Calls on Joe Biden to Allow States to Lower Taxes, Stop Unconstitutional Government Overreach",2021-04-22,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after she called for President Joe Biden to suspend enforcement of a provision in his $1.9 trillion partisan COVID-19 package that effectively bans states from reducing their own taxes through 2024.

""I am appalled that, in this time of economic uncertainty for so many hardworking Missouri families, Joe Biden will not allow states to lift up their citizens and cut taxes. Missourians and indeed all Americans have been overburdened throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and we should be looking at every way to make their lives easier, not harder. That begins with making sure hardworking families keep more of their paychecks.

""The people of Missouri know what we need here at home, not the federal government, and this unconstitutional abuse of power must stop. Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress have continued to force their big government way of life on Missourians for too long, and it's time we give this power back to the States as our Founding Fathers intended.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-wagner-schneider-garcia-meijer-meeks-mccaul-introduce-bipartisan,"Reps. Wagner, Schneider, Garcia, Meijer, Meeks, McCaul Introduce Bipartisan Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021",2021-04-21,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representatives Brad Schneider (IL-10), Ann Wagner (MO-02), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Peter Meijer (MI-03), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), and Michael McCaul (TX-10) introduced the Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021. The bill builds upon the success of the Abraham Accords, the peace and normalization agreements between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco, by stating U.S. policy is to expand and strengthen these normalization agreements while requiring coordination throughout the Administration. The companion bill is led by Senators Rob Portman (R-PA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Jim Risch (R-ID), Todd Young (R-IN), and Ben Cardin (D-MD).

""This legislation will expand upon the achievements of the Abraham Accords and help our Israeli and Arab partners build a more peaceful and stable region. By strengthening regional cooperation, we will also improve our ability to counter Iran's destabilizing agenda. The Israel Relations Normalization Act will enhance a strong working relationship between states, identify potential barriers to future agreements, and work to combat racist actions that have stalled previous relations,"" said Congresswoman Ann Wagner (MO-02).

""The 2020 peace and normalization agreements between Israel and her neighbors were historic steps for a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future in the Middle East. The United States must continue to nurture these bonds in the pursuit of regional stability. It is my hope now, as it was when these accords were first announced, that these accords will open the door to a new era of peace, building momentum to future normalization agreements and ultimately forging a path to an agreement between Israel and the Palestinians ensuring a secure, Jewish and democratic Israel living side-by-side with a Palestinian state with peace, security, and prosperity for both peoples.,"" said Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10).

""Living in peace begins with dialogue and cooperation. It is my hope that this bill will help build on the Abraham Accords to bring lasting stability and harmony in the Middle East. The United States can and should play a critical role in supporting Israel working together with Palestinians and all its neighbors. Tolerance will grow into friendship and friendship will build a bridge to shared peace and prosperity,"" said Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29).

""The Trump Administration made historic progress last year towards achieving peace and stability in the Middle East by helping facilitate normalization agreements between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco. The Israel Normalization Act of 2021 ensures that we continue to build on these efforts by promoting increased cooperation between Israel and her neighbors and encouraging those nations to ultimately work together towards a comprehensive Arab-Israeli peace,"" said Congressman Peter Meijer (MI-03).

""The normalization agreements between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan prove the value and power of diplomacy. I believe they will help advance peace between Israel and other Arab and Muslim majority nations, further diplomatic openings throughout the region and enhance efforts towards a negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I also believe these diplomatic efforts could begin to transform the region by spurring economic growth, enhancing technological innovation, and forging closer people-to-people relations. I'm honored to help lead this important legislation which will focus our government on nurturing the agreements already in place as well as incentivize other parties to craft new relationships with Israel,"" said HFAC Chairman Gregory Meeks (NY-05).

""The historic agreements brokered with Israel and neighboring countries were critical steps to creating a more secure and prosperous Middle East. We can all agree building relationships between our partners is a major win for U.S. national interests. We must continue to promote dialogue and unity as we work toward a more peaceful Middle East,"" said HFAC Ranking Member Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10).

This bill:

Requires the Department of State to provide a strategy to strengthen and expand the Abraham Accords and other related normalization agreements with Israel through;

An assessment regarding the future staffing and resourcing requirements of entities across the interagency for expanding and strengthening normalization agreements.

An assessment regarding areas of cooperation such as economic, social, cultural, scientific, technical, educational, and health fields, as well as identification of potential roadblocks in these sectors to increased cooperation among states.

An assessment regarding potential areas for further security cooperation as well as identification of potential roadblocks to future cooperation.

As assessment of opportunities created by normalization agreements to advance prospects for peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

A detailed description of how the U.S. Government will leverage diplomatic lines of effort and resources from other stakeholders to encourage normalization, economic development, and people-to-people programming.

Requires report on international efforts to promote normalization through:

Identification of existing relevant investment funds that support Israel-Arab state cooperation and recommendations for how such funds could be used to support normalization and increase prosperity for all relevant stakeholders.

An assessment of the feasibility and benefit of increasing the capacity of existing State and USAID-funded programs for developing people-to-people exchange programs for young people between Israel, Arab states, and other relevant countries and regions.

Recommendations to improve Department of State cooperation and coordination, particularly between the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, the Ambassador at-Large for International Religious Freedom, and the Director of the Office of International Religious Freedom, to combat racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, and anti-Semitism.

A proposal for how the U.S. Government and others can use existing Federal resources to counter Holocaust denial and anti-Semitism abroad. An assessment on the value and feasibility of interagency support for inter-parliamentary exchange programs for Members of Congress, Knesset, and parliamentarians from Arab states and other relevant countries and regions, including through existing federal programs that support such exchanges.

Requires a report on the status of anti-normalization laws in Arab states and other relevant countries and regions. The report is to include:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-blunt-cleaver-lead-colleagues-pressing-us-army-corps-engineers-quickly,"Graves, Blunt, Cleaver Lead Colleagues in Pressing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to Quickly & Fully Implement Missouri River Flood Control Provisions Included in Water Resources Law",2021-04-20,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.), along with U.S. Representatives Sam Graves (Mo.) and Emanuel Cleaver II (Mo.), led a bipartisan, bicameral letter urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to quickly and fully utilize the tools and resources Congress provided in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020 and the FY2020 Energy and Water appropriations bill to reduce flood risk and improve flood protection along the Lower Missouri River.

In addition to Blunt, Graves, and Cleaver, the letter is signed by congressional members from the Lower Missouri River Basin states, including U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (Iowa), Deb Fischer (Neb.), Roger Marshall (Kan.), Joni Ernst (Iowa), Josh Hawley (Mo.), and Jerry Moran (Kan.) and U.S. Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer (Mo.), Adrian Smith (Neb.), Vicky Hartzler (Mo.), Ann Wagner (Mo.), Jake LaTurner (Kan.), Billy Long (Mo.), Jason Smith (Mo.), Sharice Davids (Kan.), and Cindy Axne (Iowa).

""We write today as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) develops implementation guidance for provisions included in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2020,"" they wrote. ""The inclusion of these provisions sends a clear signal that Congress not only recognizes the importance of the Lower Missouri River Basin but also that the USACE needs to change how it fundamentally manages the river and work in a manner to restore the lower Missouri River.""

In response to historic flooding along the Lower Missouri River in 2019, the WRDA bill, which was signed into law in December, included language to improve and expedite the planning, development, and construction of water development projects. In the letter, the lawmakers urge the Corps to issue implementation guidance consistent with Congressional intent behind the WRDA provisions and immediately utilize the flexibilities provided to advance critical flood control work.

The members continued, ""Implementation guidance will enable the USACE to conduct important systemic planning simultaneously with studies focused on implementation of solutions where it makes sense, and where local partners are ready to move forward. That way, the USACE can expedite critical solutions for this heavily flood prone river while also being guided by comprehensive planning considerations and objectives. The Lower Missouri River Basin has many flood control projects that are ready and able to move forward today and would benefit greatly from the flexibilities provided. We urge the USACE to develop implementation guidance that allows this critical flood control work to begin immediately and without significant delay.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagners-southeast-asia-strategy-act-passes-house,Congresswoman Ann Wagner’s Southeast Asia Strategy Act Passes House,2021-04-19,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), released the following statement after the House passed her legislation the Southeast Asia Strategy Act:

""Congress's strong, bipartisan support for U.S. engagement in Southeast Asia sends an unmistakable message of American resolve and leadership in the region. Southeast Asian states are increasingly vital to the prosperity of the U.S. economy, generating hundreds of thousands of American jobs and investing more in our economy than China and India combined. This critical legislation will create a strong foundation for the future of U.S.-Southeast Asian relations.

""China has been eager to undermine U.S. interests in the region, is aggressively working to expand its influence in Southeast Asia, and has ramped up disinformation campaigns to coerce countries to accept its agenda. The Southeast Asia Strategy Act will help address those exploitative actions and ensure that the United States develops and communicates a coherent regional strategy that addresses all aspects of the relationship, from trade and humanitarian goals to diplomatic and security arrangements.""

The Southeast Asia Strategy Act would deepen U.S. engagement with ASEAN and its member states by directing the United States to develop a coherent and clearly communicated regional strategy that addresses all aspects of the relationship, from trade and humanitarian goals to diplomatic and security arrangements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-scalise-and-cammack-lead-discharge-process-force-vote-born-alive,"Wagner, Scalise, and Cammack Lead Discharge Process to Force Vote on Born-Alive Survivors Protection Act",2021-04-14,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, with support from House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Representative Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), Representative Kat Cammack (R-Fl.). filed the discharge petition for the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. Rep. Wagner's legislation, H.R. 619, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, mandates that any infant born alive after an abortion receives the same standard of care as any newborn baby. This legislation would also institute penalties for abortionists who allow infants to die or who intentionally kill a newborn. Upon being signed by 218 members of the House, the discharge petition will force a vote on the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act on the House Floor.

""It is a tragedy if even one precious baby is not given the care they need. These protections for abortion survivors are urgently needed, and Congress must act now to end infanticide. It is shameful that Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats refuse to even allow a vote on this lifesaving bill. This discharge petition brings the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act one step closer to being enshrined in law. I am hopeful that every member of Congress, Democrat or Republican, will do the right thing and add their name to the petition,"" said Representative Wagner. ""We all have a sacred duty to protect these little ones and ensure they are treated with the love and compassion they deserve.""

""Protecting newborn babies is about basic decency. I am proud to file this discharge petition today with Representatives Wagner and Cammack and join my fellow House Republicans in making it clear that abortion survivors ought to have the same rights under the law as any other baby entering the world,"" said Whip Scalise. ""As lawmakers, we swore an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution. All life is sacred and must be treated as such. Tragically, Speaker Pelosi and her far-left caucus will not uphold the most basic right — the right to life — or defend newborn babies from being killed by abortionists. We will not stand by as she blocks this critical legislation from coming to the floor.""

""Today's discharge petition symbolizes our commitment to protecting the sanctity of life for all Americans, including the most vulnerable among us. For too long, Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats have demonstrated their disregard for this most basic right and it's time we show the American people where their representatives stand on this critical issue,"" said Representative Cammack. ""I'm proud to stand alongside Whip Scalise and Rep. Wagner in declaring the value of life once and for all.""

Background on the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act:

Requires that health care practitioners who are present at a live birth during an attempted abortion exercise the same degree of skill, care, and diligence to preserve the life and health of the child that would be offered to any other child born prematurely at the same gestational age and then immediately transport and admit the child to a hospital.

Requires health care practitioners and hospital employees to report violations to law enforcement authorities, reducing the number of born-alive abortions that go unreported.

Failure to exercise the required degree of care, or report a failure to comply can be penalized through fines or up to five years imprisonment.

Penalizes the intentional killing of a born-alive child as murder.

Gives the mother of the abortion survivor a civil cause of action and protection from prosecution, recognizing that women are the second victims of abortion and promoting the dignity of motherhood.

Last Congress, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act discharge petition received bipartisan support, with all House Republicans and three House Democrats signing the petition.

Background on the Born Alive Act Discharge Petition:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-scalise-and-cammack-file-born-alive-discharge-petition-april,"Wagner, Scalise, and Cammack to File Born Alive Discharge Petition on April 14th",2021-04-12,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.), Representative Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), and Representative Kat Cammack (R-Fl.) announced that Rep. Cammack will file the discharge petition for the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act on April 14th during that day's first vote series. Rep. Wagner's legislation, H.R. 619, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, mandates that any infant born alive after an abortion receives the same standard of care as any newborn baby. This legislation would also institute penalties for abortionists who allow infants to die or who intentionally kill a newborn. Upon being signed by 218 members of the House, the discharge petition will force a vote on the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act on the House Floor.

""Every single life is sacred and precious—no matter the circumstances of birth. I will not stop working until this legislation becomes law, so newborns have a chance at life when they are at their most vulnerable,"" said Rep. Wagner. ""For too long, Nancy Pelosi has blocked my commonsense legislation that protects the innocent lives of children born alive. We must take a stand and tell her the American people want the Born-Alive Act passed and signed into law. This should not be a matter up for debate, and I hope every Member of Congress signs this petition so these basic rights are enshrined into law.""

""Last Congress, Speaker Pelosi directed her radical caucus to block the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act more than 75 times. Representative Wagner's legislation states that a baby who survives an abortion deserves the same degree of medical care as any other newborn,"" said Whip Scalise. ""I am proud to partner with Representatives Wagner, Cammack, and the entire Republican Conference to make it clear that all life is sacred and must be protected. Why are House Democrats refusing to allow a vote on this commonsense legislation that will save lives? The Born-Alive Act deserves a vote on the House Floor. The American people deserve to know where their representatives stand on taking steps to end infanticide.""

""The right to life is the most sacred, inalienable human right afforded to us in the United States. I will always fight to protect the unborn and am honored to lead the discharge petition for H.R. 619, the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act with Whip Scalise and Rep. Wagner,"" said Rep. Cammack. ""I urge my colleagues to stand up for what is right in putting an end to the dangerous, immoral abortion practices that take place daily in our country, and I look forward to working with Republicans in Congress and everyone who stands for life in moving this bill forward toward a Floor vote this Congress.""

Background on the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act:

Requires that health care practitioners who are present at the live birth exercise skill, care, and diligence to preserve the life and health of the child—the same degree of care that would be offered to any other child born prematurely of the same gestational age. After those efforts, the health care workers must transport and admit the child to a hospital.

Requires health care practitioners and hospital employees to report violations to law enforcement authorities, reducing the number of born-alive abortions that go unreported.

Penalizes the intentional killing of a born-alive child through fines or up to 5 years imprisonment.

Gives the mother of the abortion survivor a civil cause of action against the abortionist and protection from prosecution, recognizing that women are the second victims of abortion and promoting the dignity of motherhood.

Background on the Born-Alive Act Discharge Petition:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-house-foreign-affairs-republicans-visit-southern-border,"Wagner, House Foreign Affairs Republicans Visit Southern Border",2021-04-09,2021,2021-04,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – House Foreign Affairs Committee Lead Republican Michael McCaul (R-TX), Vice Lead Republican Ann Wagner (R-MO) and International Development, International Organizations and Global Corporate Social Impact Subcommittee Lead Republican Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) visited the southern U.S. border. The group, led by Minority Whip Steve Scalise and joined by other Members of Congress, met with Border Patrol agents, visited two processing centers including the one in Donna, TX, and were briefed by the Rio Grande Valley sector chief. The visit comes after the Foreign Affairs Committee Republicans sent a letter last month to Secretary of State Antony Blinken asking for information pertaining to the Biden Administration's decision to rescind the asylum cooperation agreements with Central American countries and the ""Remain in Mexico"" agreement. Below is a joint statement from Reps. McCaul, Wagner and Malliotakis.

""The scenes at the border and especially inside these processing centers were heart-wrenching. Children sleeping on hard floors, crowded into rooms together without the ability to even go outside. This is what happens when President Biden ignores the experts and cavalierly rescinds immigration policies that were working – he creates a humanitarian crisis at our border. We strongly urge the Biden Administration to reinstate effective policies, including the Migrant Protection Protocols with Mexico as well as the Asylum Cooperation Agreements (ACAs) with El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, as quickly as possible.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:42:19Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congresswoman-ann-wagner-introduces-legislation-protect-seniors,Congresswoman Ann Wagner Introduces Legislation To Protect Seniors From Financial Exploitation,2021-03-29,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, released the following statement after she introduced the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act.

""I have had too many heartbreaking conversations with seniors and their families who have had to deal with the tragic aftermath of financial exploitation. Seniors are often the victim of serious financial crimes and the mental toll of knowing you were coerced or deceived can be devastating. Oftentimes the victims are on a fixed income, and it can be extremely hard to recover from the shocking financial loss. After having seen the impact these types of fraud and deception can have on our senior communities in Missouri, I knew we needed to create a tool that would help them be better protected from financial abuse and exploitation. My legislation would help protect our seniors from having their hard-earned money taken from them by implementing a buffer between financial transactions if fraud is suspected.""

The Financial Exploitation Prevention Act would give the financial industry better tools to address suspected financial exploitation and abuse of seniors and those with mental and physical disabilities. First, the bill requires the Securities and Exchange Commission to report to Congress on recommendations for legislative and regulatory changes on how to combat financial exploitation of seniors and vulnerable adults. Second, the bill permits a registered open-end investment company or transfer agent for that company, including mutual funds, to better protect seniors by delaying the redemption period of any redeemable security if it was reasonably believed that such redemption was requested through the financial exploitation of a security holder who is a senior or an individual unable to protect their own interests.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/democrats-push-dangerous-immigration-agenda,Democrats Push Dangerous Immigration Agenda,2021-03-18,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on the Democrats' dangerous immigration agenda:

""We are facing an unprecedented crisis at the border. President Biden and Democrats in Congress have essentially opened our border to anyone who wants to break the law and come into the United States, ensuring even more illegal immigrants from Central America and many other countries are making this dangerous trek.

""Illegally crossing the border is a treacherous endeavor, and instead of implementing commonsense legislation that would safely stem the tide of illegal immigration, Democrats have decided to force through a partisan immigration bill that would incentivize even more illegal immigration and provide green cards to violent criminals and gang members. The fact is, this is nothing more than a mass amnesty for millions that does not secure the border and keep our nation safe. Just this week it was reported that Customs and Border Protection have arrested four people at the border whose names were on the terrorist watchlist. How many more dangerous criminals are out there, ready to take advantage of the lax policies promoted by Joe Biden and the Democrats?

""We must take decisive action to build the wall, secure the border, and prevent even more criminals and terrorists from crossing into the United States. Democrats are even letting illegal immigrants in who could have COVID-19. It's actions like these that can and will lead to unnecessary deaths of innocent Americans.

""It's also important to note, Missouri's economy thrives on growing, harvesting and processing agriculture commodities. Whether it is soybeans, corn, cattle, or hogs, we need an economy that works for Missouri farmers – one that includes a workable, legal immigration system. The partisan measure put forward today does nothing to create a safe, secure and stable ag workforce that will meet the needs of Missouri's agriculture economy.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-helps-victims-traumatic-crimes-passes-her-legislation-support,"Wagner Helps Victims of Traumatic Crimes, Passes Her Legislation To Support Survivor Recovery",2021-03-17,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the House passed the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act. This bipartisan, bicameral piece of legislation will support vital victim service programs by preventing future cuts to already diminished federal victim service grants. Rep. Wagner introduced this legislation in the House on March 8, 2021.

""Violent criminals must pay for their abhorrent crimes and provide just compensation to the victims whose lives they have upended. I have worked with victims throughout my time in Congress and have seen firsthand how important victim service programs are to the recovery process as survivors find their own personal sense of justice. It is a crisis if even one victim can't get the essential services they need due to decreased funding, and I am grateful we were able to take immediate action to get these victims the services and funding they need to move forward. Here in Missouri, we are expecting a 25% cut to VOCA funds in the upcoming year if this bill does not become law,"" said Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO). ""I am hopeful the VOCA Fix Act will be signed into law without delay so this vital funding source is replenished and the thousands of Americans who rely on it have confidence they will have our help in their time of need.""

""MCADSV is grateful to Congresswoman Wagner for her continuous leadership on the 'VOCA Fix.' This federal funding is the number one grant source for Missouri domestic and sexual violence agencies to provide life-changing services 24/7,"" said the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. ""This bill will stabilize and secure the funding so that agencies do not have to reduce the number of employees or types of help offered to victims.""

""The Missouri Coalition Against Trafficking & Exploitation (CATE) would like to thank Congresswoman Ann Wagner and her colleagues for introducing the VOCA Fix Act of 2021. This important legislation ensures victims of crime will have access to much needed services that provide a path to safety and healing,"" said the Missouri Coalition Against Trafficking and Exploitation. ""Individuals impacted by human trafficking were forced into numerous traumatic victimizations, many experienced these events over an extended period. Ensuring victims have access to needed trauma informed services is paramount in the healing process. In working to eliminate human trafficking we must provide a safety net of support and the VOCA Fix Act will do just that, allow providers funding to support victims to achieve safety and healing.

""America's 924 Children's Advocacy Centers, where we serve more than 338,000 abused kids and their families nationally each year, including more than 8,800 abused kids and families in Missouri, are excited for the House passage of H.R. 1652, the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act of 2021,"" said Teresa Huizar, executive director of National Children's Alliance, the nation's largest network of care centers for child victims of abuse. ""The Victims of Crime Act has long had bipartisan support as a source of the funding children need to heal and thrive, and we want to thank Rep. Wagner, as well as Reps. Nadler, Fitzpatrick, Jackson Lee, McMorris Rodgers, Scanlon, Dingell and Moolenaar for championing swift passage of this critical fix. We now urge the Senate to swiftly follow suit so that critical dollars are available for the children, families, and communities that need it.""

""State & local prosecutors are proud to join thousands of victims assistance organizations, state administrating agencies, and law enforcement partners in supporting passage of the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act,"" said Nelson Bunn, NDAA Executive Director. ""This vital legislation will prevent catastrophic cuts to the grant programs that support millions of survivors and provide resources to States to compensate victims as they continue to rebuild their lives.""

Background

Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) grants are the primary source of federal funding for thousands of victim service providers around the country, including programs serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, trafficking, and drunk driving. VOCA grants also fund victim compensation, including paying medical bills, covering lost wages, and paying for funeral costs. These critical grants are not taxpayer funded. Instead, they are paid out of the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), which is funded, in turn, through federal criminal monetary penalties. Over the past several years, deposits into the CVF have dropped, leading to corresponding cuts in grants to victim service providers.

This bill would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to deposit all monetary penalties, including from deferred prosecution and non-prosecution agreements, into the CVF.

In addition, The Crime Victims Fund Sustainability Act of 2021 will make much needed improvement to victim compensation and services, including:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-vawa,Wagner Statement on VAWA,2021-03-17,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on VAWA:

""I came to Congress to be a voice for the voiceless and serve women and girls who are in need. I have made it a priority to fight for women and vulnerable populations. Sexual and domestic violence have persisted in our communities for far too long, and there is always more we can do to combat these vile crimes and help victims. Fighting these pervasive problems should be overwhelmingly bipartisan, but it grieves me to say Democrats in Congress have decided to play politics on this important issue.

""Last Congress I authored multiple amendments to improve the overall VAWA legislation and I was grateful they were included in the final bill. This week, however, Democrats denied two of my commonsense amendments that protected sex trafficking victims and banned sex-selection abortions.

""My first amendment would allow sex trafficking victims to receive grant funding through the Creating Hope through Outreach, Options, Service, and Education for Children and Youth Program. Victims of trafficking endure unthinkable abuse and trauma, and I am ashamed that Democrats would bring VAWA to the floor without these protections. The fact they would go so far as to proactively strip this provision from the bill and take vital sex trafficking funding from victims and children is an unconscionable action I cannot and will not support.

""I also introduced an amendment that would ban the horror of sex-selection abortions that have killed millions of girls around the world, as well as right here in the United States. It is an unthinkable tragedy that little girls are targeted for death even before they are born, solely because of their sex. This is a basic protection for young girls, and I am shocked Democrats would not even allow it to have a vote.

""My amendments would have protected women and girls in vulnerable situations and made real changes to combat violence against women. It is a shamefully political move to tear away commonsense Republican provisions that would help victims, but sadly that is exactly what Democrats have decided to do. Due to these partisan actions that will harm survivors, I cannot vote for this legislation.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-against-nancy-pelosis-gun-grab,Graves Votes Against Nancy Pelosi’s Gun Grab,2021-03-11,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 8 and H.R. 1446.

""These bills do nothing to put violent criminals behind bars and stop violent crime,"" said Graves. ""Instead, Nancy Pelosi's gun grabmakes it harder for law-abiding gun owners to exercise their 2nd Amendment rights. By requiring every firearm transfer to go through a federally licensed dealer and allowing unlimited delays in processing background checks, this legislation tramples on our constitutional rights and sets the stage for a national gun owner database.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-wagner-and-blumenauer-introduce-legislation-prevent-repeated,Reps. Wagner and Blumenauer Introduce Legislation to Prevent Repeated Community Flooding,2021-03-11,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Reps. Ann Wagner (R-MO) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) today introduced the Repeatedly Flooded Communities Preparation Act. This bipartisan legislation would strengthen protections for flood-prone communities by encouraging them to plan for future disasters.

The Repeatedly Flooded Communities Preparation Act addresses the fiscally irresponsible cycle of repeated flooding and rebuilding of communities by taking proactive steps to reduce increased flood risks with federal resources. A version of this legislation passed the House in the 115th Congress as part of the 21st Century Flood Reform Act (H.R. 2874).

""Repeated flooding has devastated Missouri communities for too long. I am proud to introduce this legislation that would help build more resilient communities and mitigate future flood damage to at-risk homes and businesses,"" said Rep. Wagner. ""This important legislation prevents loss of life and property and helps local communities who have been greatly affected by flooding. No one wants to spend money to rebuild flood-prone properties, and this bill will ensure the necessary steps are taken to alleviate the effects of natural disasters.""

""All too common natural disasters are requiring us to take dynamic action to prevent communities from being devastated by the worst impacts of the growing climate crisis,"" said Rep. Blumenauer. ""Floods are no exception, yet the National Flood Insurance Program actually incentivizes many communities to ignore this problem. This legislation would take a crucial step in the right direction by encouraging those who have experienced repeated flooding to plan for future disasters. Through these preventative steps, communities can actually protect their members from persistent flooding and relieve pressure on the federal government to bail out those neglecting their responsibilities.""

Background

Under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), properties that have been flooded multiple times are consistently rebuilt without any additional plans to mitigate future flooding. These repetitive loss properties make up just one percent of those covered by the program, but result in up to 30 percent of all claims and have added up to more than $12 billion in costs to the federal government.

This bill incentivizes communities with a significant number of repetitive loss properties to proactively submit flood prevention plans to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as a condition of their participation in the NFIP. Additionally, the bill sets deadlines for FEMA to develop criteria to govern these repeat loss plans and determine any appropriate actions for failure to act, requires FEMA to report to Congress every two years on implementation progress, and authorizes FEMA to target special assistance to communities working to address these repeatedly flooded areas.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-opposes-biden-bailout,Graves Opposes Biden Bailout,2021-03-10,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting against President Joe Biden's Bailout Bill:

""There is simply no reason to rush through this bill. Ninety percent of it has almost nothing to do with COVID. We need targeted relief, but this bill does very little to reopen small businesses and get our children back in the classroom. That's the key to recovery and that's what we should be focused on, instead of using COVID as an excuse to fund a bunch of liberal special interest priorities.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-applauds-blunt-his-steadfast-service-missouri-and-republican-party,Graves Applauds Blunt for His Steadfast Service to Missouri and the Republican Party,2021-03-08,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement regarding Missouri Senator Roy Blunt's announcement that he wouldn't be seeking reelection to the United States Senate in 2022:

""Senator Roy Blunt is the single most influential political leader in Missouri this century and the father of the modern Republican Party in Missouri.

""For 50 years, Roy has been a steadfast and loyal servant to Missouri. His inspired leadership from the Greene County Courthouse to Jefferson City led him to Majority Leader of the US House of Representatives and the 4th ranking Republican in the US Senate, ensuring all Missourians a seat at the table for the most consequential policy and political decisions facing our Nation.

""Through dogged determination and unwavering fight, he deserves full credit for building the Missouri Republican Party from the grassroots up by cultivating candidates, mentoring officeholders, and leveraging his own political power to help others succeed.

""At every turn of my political life, Roy Blunt has been equally generous with me, sharing his insight, wisdom, and political capital to support my elections; advocating for the committee assignments I needed to best serve my District; and, insisting that I was the best candidate for Chairman of the US House Small Business Committee and Republican Leader of the US House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. We have been a powerful team in directing federal transportation funding to Missouri and the 6th District, in particular.

""Roy's servant heart and unwavering friendship makes him my best counsel when I face tough political challenges, negotiate consequential legislative solutions, and work to strengthen our Party. I am certain that Roy's life of service to Missouri and the Republican Party does not end with his achievements in the US Senate. I wish Roy, Abby, and Charlie much success and happiness in their private life to come.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-senator-roy-blunt,Wagner Statement on Senator Roy Blunt,2021-03-08,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement:

""Today all Missourians celebrate the career of Roy Blunt. While today's announcement is the end of an era, I look forward to working with him in service to Missouri during the remainder of his term and know that he will do his utmost for our great state.

""Representing your hometown in public service is both humbling and inspiring at the same time. While the Second District is home, I have been proud to work throughout Missouri prior to my time in public service and am humbled by the outpouring of encouragement from folks across our great state today. I take their outreach seriously, and plan to discuss with my family what the future holds for me in the coming days.

""Stopping the liberal agenda in Washington is vitally important for the future of our nation. There are too many important things to fight for today – our shared conservative principles, protecting innocent life, stopping the assault on our personal freedoms, and standing up to the Biden Administration's liberal agenda – not to take a stand for what is right.

""I congratulate Roy and Abby and the entire Blunt family on his announcement today, wish them luck for their next steps, and look forward to serving with Senator Blunt in Congress for the remainder of his term.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-group-members-congress-announce-voca-fix-sustain,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Group Of Members Of Congress Announce VOCA Fix To Sustain The Crime Victims Fund Act",2021-03-04,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, a bipartisan, bicameral group of Members of Congress announced the introduction of the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act. This critical piece of legislation will support vital victim service programs by preventing future cuts to already diminished federal victim service grants. Members of Congress in the Senate will introduce the bill today and the House will introduce the bill on Monday.

The legislation is led in the House by Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), and John Moolenaar (R-MI). It is led in the Senate by Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).

Representative Ann Wagner: ""The Crime Victims Fund ensures that survivors of serious crimes can access critical services and rebuild their lives. Thousands of Americans, many of whom have suffered domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, human trafficking, and drunk driving, depend on the fund for compensation and lifesaving care. This funding has hit dangerously low levels and victims are in desperate need of our help. This commonsense funding fix will help those at their most vulnerable recover as our justice system prosecutes the criminals responsible.""

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler: ""The VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act ensures that programs and services assisting victims of crime are fully funded and better supported. The need for this legislation cannot be understated, as deposits into the Crime Victims Fund have continued to decline, a problem only worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. I am proud of the bipartisan and bicameral collaboration that has made this piece of legislation possible, and I am hopeful that it will be signed into law.""

Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin: ""Due to the rapidly diminishing balance in the Crime Victims Fund, victim services are already being slashed in states across the country, and some programs and services may see close to a 100 percent cut within two years. In particular, victims in rural and smaller jurisdictions will be impacted by the cuts if Congress does not act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation to strengthen the Victims of Crime Act will allow many victims a chance to recover and rebuild their lives.""

Senator Lindsey Graham: ""The fix in our bill keeps the Fund sustainable and ensures that survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and other crimes continue to receive the vital services they need both directly and through victim support programs. I am proud to be part of this overdue and much-needed change in policy.""

House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime Chairwoman Sheila Jackson Lee: ""The time is now to deliver access to the services victims and survivors so desperately need during a critical moment when the need for victim assistance has skyrocketed, and programs are being forced to cut lifesaving services for victims.""

Representative Brian Fitzpatrick: ""VOCA grants are a major source of federal funding for thousands of vital victim service providers across the nation, including programs that serve victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, trafficking, and drunk driving. Funding for VOCA's Crime Victims Fund has continued to decline, and this problem has only been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislation will fix VOCA funding mechanisms and implement better support for our state victim compensation programs—therefore, providing victims in our communities with the hope and crucial, lifesaving services they need and deserve.""

VOCA grants are the primary source of federal funding for thousands of victim service providers around the country, including programs serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, trafficking, and drunk driving. VOCA grants also fund victim compensation, including paying medical bills, covering lost wages, and paying for funeral costs. These critical grants are not taxpayer funded. Instead they are paid out of the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), which is funded, in turn, through federal criminal monetary penalties. Over the past several years, deposits into the CVF have dropped, leading to corresponding cuts in grants to victim service providers.

This bill would require DOJ to deposit all monetary penalties, including from deferred prosecution and non-prosecution agreements, into the CVF.

In addition, The Crime Victims Fund Sustainability Act of 2021 will make much needed improvement to victim compensation and services, including:

Bolsters state victim compensation funds by increasing the federal grant calculation for funding to victim compensation programs from the current 60% to 75% of state-funded payouts;

Allows states to request a no-cost extension from the Attorney General, as allowed for other Department of Justice formula grant programs, to ensure states can thoughtfully and effectively distribute victim service grants without being penalized.

Requires state VOCA Administrators to waive the 20% match requirement for victim service subgrantees for the pendency of the COVID-19 crisis and one additional year;

Allows state VOCA Administrators to waive subgrantee match requirements at their discretion after the aforementioned waiver expires and require state VOCA Administrators to develop and publish a policy and procedure for obtaining a waiver;

Instructs the Office for Victims of Crime not to deduct restitution payments recovered by state victim compensation funds when calculating victim compensation awards; and

Provide flexibility for state compensation programs to waive the requirement to promote victim cooperation with law enforcement if good cause is established by the program.

Support for the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act:

Representative Debbie Dingell: ""Victims and survivors of crimes should not be denied justice because our government has failed to fund critical services and programs. With the Crime Victims Fund Sustainability Act, we can make the urgent reforms necessary to protect VOCA and the people it serves. The cost of inaction is far too great and the pain it will cause is far too painful for the survivors who deserve these supports. It is an honor to join this strong bipartisan, bicameral Congressional effort to fix this long overdue issue.""

Representative Mary Gay Scanlon: ""VOCA funds are a critical resource for programs serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, trafficking, and drunk driving. I've heard from local organizations that the uncertainty around these funds have made providing life changing services all the more difficult. In response to these calls, I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this comprehensive legislation to help our brave survivors.""

Representative John Moolenaar: ""This legislation will allow victim advocacy and law enforcement organizations to help those in need with vital services,"" said. ""By ensuring these organizations continue to have access to federal funding, the VOCA Fix Act will help survivors of violent crime and abuse to access the resources they need.""

Senator Tammy Baldwin: ""The Crime Victims Fund ensures that states can provide compensation and assistance to innocent victims of crimes. This lifeline for so many is rapidly running out of funds and we must take action to replenish it, so folks can continue accessing these critical resources. I'm proud to have identified a new revenue source for the Crime Victims Fund – directing funds from deferred and non-prosecution agreements be deposited into the Fund. This innovative solution uses no new taxpayer dollars, and I'm glad to see it incorporated into our bipartisan reform to ensure that victims continue to receive the services and assistance they deserve.""

Senator Chuck Grassley: ""For decades, the Crime Victims Fund has provided essential support to Americans across the country – all without spending a dime of taxpayer dollars. However, decreased deposits to the fund from criminal fines and penalties threaten the long-term viability of the fund. I raised concerns about this issue last year. This bipartisan bill addresses funding stream issues to ensure that these resources continue to be available to victims well into the future.""

Senator Dianne Feinstein: ""Programs that help victims of crime are severely underfunded due to declining deposits. The necessity for resources has grown worse during the pandemic with the rise in domestic violence. Our bill helps restore this urgently needed funding to ensure that anyone harmed by a crime will receive help recovering.""

Senator Amy Klobuchar: ""As a former prosecutor, I've seen firsthand the importance of ensuring crime victims across the country – including in our rural communities – have access to the resources they need to get back on their feet. This bipartisan legislation will make necessary changes to the Crime Victims Fund to save critical services and programs that help people rebuild their lives.""

Senator Lisa Murkowski: ""This legislation makes substantial improvements to the Victim of Crimes Act and addresses the continuation of decreasing dollars being deposited into the Crimes Victims Fund, which has become unsustainable. I am proud to have worked on a bipartisan solution which will ensure that the VOCA account has the resources necessary to provide vital services for victims and survivors. Providing this fix for VOCA funds will allow the state of Alaska to continue to meet the immediate needs of survivors. I continue to be concerned that the COVID-19 crisis has led to an increase in cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse throughout the state. Moving forward, we must continue to strengthen VOCA programs' abilities to serve survivors and their communities.""

Senator John Cornyn: ""For years these programs have brought justice to survivors and victims' families as they recover from trauma, and we must ensure this funding remains available,"" said Sen. Cornyn. ""I am proud to join my colleagues to protect this program and remain committed to helping victims in Texas and across the nation get the support they need to rebuild their lives.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-cuellar-fleischmann-introduce-legislation-protect-victims,"Wagner, Cuellar, Fleischmann Introduce Legislation To Protect Victims of Trafficking, Child Exploitation, Identity Theft, Financial Crimes",2021-03-03,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN) released the following statement after they introduced the Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Act to codify and expand the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Victim Assistance Program (VAP) to ensure victims of federal crimes have access to the assistance and support they need:

""Survivors of traumatizing crimes like human trafficking and child exploitationare too often left without vital support in a time of great need. This bill codifies the Victim Assistance Program to protect the rights of victims,"" said Congresswoman Ann Wagner. ""The Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Act would also ensure victim assistance specialists are better trained and more accessible to Missourians so victims have an advocate as they work to recover and find justice.""

""While we work to dismantle all forms of human trafficking and exploitation, it also must a be a top priority to protect and support the thousands of men, women and children who fall victim each year,"" said Congressman Cuellar. ""This bipartisan legislation will expand community and victim services to survivors so they can feel stable, safe and secure. As the Vice Chair of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I am committed to delivering the necessary support that will help identify these victims and get them on the road to recovery.""

""I am proud to join the Representatives Ann Wagner and Henry Cuellar in introducing this bipartisan legislation to provide critical assistance to victims of human trafficking and exploitation,"" saidCongressman Fleischmann. ""This legislation will ensure survivors of these heinous crimes have access to specialized support services throughout the investigation and prosecution process to assist them and make sure their rights are protected. As the Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will continue to fund programs that combat human trafficking and exploitation and empower DHS to meet the needs of victims and survivors of these appalling crimes.""

About the bill: The Homeland Security Investigations Victim Assistance Act codifies the Victim Assistance Program (VAP) within Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). This legislation requires the VAP to provide at least one Forensic Interview Specialist and one Victim Assistance Specialist to each HSI Special Agent in Charge office, a Victim Assistance Specialist to every HSI office participating in a human trafficking task force or child sexual exploitation task force, and a Victim Assistance Specialist to every HSI regional attaché office. Moreover, the VAP shall provide oversight, guidance, and training on topics such as victims' rights, victim-related policies, and the victim-centered approach to victim assistance personnel nationwide.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-hr-1,Wagner Statement on H.R. 1,2021-03-03,2021,2021-03,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement on H.R. 1, the For the Politicians Act:

""Free, fair, and transparent elections are the cornerstone of our democracy. We all agree Americans must be able to trust in the integrity of our elections. However, this legislation would have the opposite effect on our election processes. H.R. 1 would take away the constitutional right of state and local governments to decide and run their own elections. It would grant the federal government unprecedented power over elections and pave the way for rampant fraud, abuse, and litigation.

""This bill legalizes ballot harvesting, expands mail-in voting, and nullifies commonsense voter ID laws that simply make sure a voter is who they say they are. The For the Politicians Act even allows for the first time ever taxpayer funding of campaigns with a 6 to 1 contribution match. H.R. 1 is a cynical and partisan measure that will erode faith in our democracy, not restore it.

""I am proud of how Missouri and our local counties managed our elections, and believe we can be a model for meaningful, bipartisan election reform. Our local election administrators took care to ensure votes were counted properly and without unreasonable delays. Unfortunately, the legislation before us would cause even greater uncertainty in our elections at a time when fraud and misinformation has caused so many to lose faith in the integrity of our election systems. It would also cause unnecessary delays in the counting process, leading to confusion among voters, and ultimately a lack of confidence in the system. It is vitally important every American citizen knows that their votes will be counted, and counted quickly, not lumped in with illegally cast votes and counted over the course of weeks or months.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:33:37Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-votes-against-biden-bailout-bill,Graves Votes Against Biden Bailout Bill,2021-02-27,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting against President Biden's $1.9 trillion bailout bill.

""We can't afford to mortgage our children's future to pay for this wasteful bailout bill that's loaded with pork,"" said Graves. ""Less than 10 percent of this ‘emergency relief bill' goes to fighting COVID-19 and much of it won't be spent this year. There's still $1 trillion that hasn't been spent from previous COVID-19 relief bills. We need to focus on putting those dollars to good use and reopening our country—not wasting trillions on payoffs to liberal donors and special interests.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-statement-hr-1319,Wagner Statement on H.R. 1319,2021-02-27,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), released the following statement on H.R. 1319, Pelosi's Payoff to Progressives Act:

""We are still in the midst of a pandemic, and it is critical we pass legislation that will immediately help those in need. Unfortunately, Democrats have pushed through a $1.9 trillion partisan legislative package that is not targeted, timely, nor tied to COVID. I submitted three amendments to this bill that would have specifically supported veteran and women-owned businesses and also help businesses reopen by improving access to the vaccine in our communities. Democrats rejected my amendments, along with hundreds of other amendments from Republicans, just another sign they are cynically politicizing this crisis. This is not the bipartisan relief package our country needs. It is a liberal wish list, and Democrats are doing everything they can to force it through.

""Only nine percent of this massive, $1.9 trillion package goes to fighting COVID-19, and, outside of stimulus payments, nearly half won't even be spent this year. We all agree Americans need relief now, which is why any bill we pass needs to combat COVID specifically and address problems immediately, not years down the road. This includes supporting vaccine manufacturing and distribution, providing relief for our small businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and supporting those who have been inordinately affected by the pandemic.

""Democrats made sure to make room for plenty of earmarks too, including funding for Chuck Schumer's bridge to Canada, and over $110 million for Nancy Pelosi's Silicon Valley rail project. The CARES Act distributed funding based on state population, but this new bill rewards large blue states that enacted onerous lockdowns and provides funding that can bailout unions.

""We have worked in a bipartisan manner to pass five legislative packages that addressed the COVID-19 pandemic and we still have $1 trillion left unspent from those bills. I am disappointed the Democrats have decided to be so egregiously partisan in a time of crisis when our constituents desperately need our help.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/democrats-block-wagner-amendments-house-covid-relief-legislation,Democrats Block Wagner Amendments To House COVID Relief Legislation,2021-02-26,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO), Chair of the House Suburban Caucus, released the following statement after House Democrats blocked three of her amendments to H.R. 1319:

""I submitted three amendments to this legislation to ensure that pandemic relief funding is targeted directly to those in need due to the pandemic, and limited in scope so taxpayer dollars are used judiciously during this emergency. My amendments would provide specific funding to veteran and women-owned businesses and also help businesses reopen by focusing funding to ensure our communities can more easily access vaccines. The fact that Democrats would strike even these commonsense amendments down shows how partisan this process has become, a disappointing fact during a national crisis.""

Background

Wagner Amendment #1: This amendment would direct funds focused on getting vaccines into communities so businesses can reopen.

Wagner Amendment #2: This amendment would return any unspent funds to the general fund 6 months after the end of the national emergency.

Wagner Amendment #3: This amendment would provide funding for women- and veteran-owned businesses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-releases-statement-equality-act,Wagner Releases Statement On Equality Act,2021-02-25,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement on the Equality Act:

""I believe all Americans should be able to live free from discrimination. Our communities are strongest when we treat others as we would like to be treated. Unfortunately, the Equality Act has serious flaws that run counter to the First Amendment rights that our nation holds sacred. The legislation prevents people of faith from exercising their sincerely-held religious beliefs.

""Last Congress I submitted a good-faith amendment that would clarify that the Equality Act would not force people to abdicate their First Amendment rights, including the freedom of religion, right of conscience, and freedom of speech. Democrats rejected it then and did not include it this year.

""I am also concerned that the Equality Act would create unintended consequences for women and girls. The bill would allow men to compete in women-only sports, endangering sex-specific sports teams that give women access to athletic programming. Missouri women fought for Title IX rights for decades and girls across my district have greatly benefited from these protections since 1972. The Equality Act would roll back Title IX provisions that have promoted women's equality in extracurricular activities and take away essential scholarship and professional opportunities for women and girls.

""The legislation also threatens spaces where women enjoy privacy and feel safe from men, ranging from locker rooms to domestic violence shelters. After speaking with many experts on violence against women, I believe shelters need to have flexibility to decide how best to accommodate the survivors they care for. There are many ways to protect people from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, but the Equality Act imposes a federal, one-size-fits-all mandate that would overrun local and state accommodations and reverse hard-won women's rights.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-celebrates-national-ffa-week,Graves Celebrates National FFA Week,2021-02-24,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined Representatives Tracey Mann (R-KS) and Jim Langevin (D-RI) this week to lead a bipartisan group of 77 Members of Congress in introducing H. Res. 150, celebrating the week of February 20 through February 27, 2021, as ""National FFA Week.""

""As a high school student, FFA provided me with lasting skills in leadership,"" said Graves. ""My story is just one of millions that havebeen positively impacted by the work of FFA. Although the organization has its roots in providing high-quality agricultural education, it has grown into so much more than that. Today, FFA provides valuable lessons in leadership, personal growth, career success, and community service to hundreds of thousands of students from urban and rural communities alike.""

Text of the resolution

The National FFA Organization is one of the nation's largest youth organizations, with 760,113 members in chapters in all 50 states. Founded in 1928 as ""Future Farmers of America,"" the organization changed its name in 1988 to the ""National FFA Organization"" to better reflect their growing mission to provide students with important career and life skills through high-quality agricultural education.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-celebrates-public-schools-week-and-career-and-technical-education-month,Graves Celebrates Public Schools Week and Career and Technical Education Month in Congress,2021-02-22,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) joined Representatives Mark Pocan (D-WI), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), and Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA) this week to lead a bipartisan group of 94 Members of Congress in introducing a resolution to express support for the designation of the week of February 22 through February 26, 2021, as ""Public Schools Week.""

""North Missouri families rely on our public schools to provide their children with a high-quality education that will serve as a foundation for their future,"" said Graves. ""Our teachers, faculty, and administrators do an excellent job of accomplishing just that—even in the face of a global pandemic. Public schools across North Missouri have worked diligently to educate kids, even with obstacles, and get kids back in the classroom safely and swiftly. Public Schools Week is a great opportunity to thank all those that have been so critical to our children's education throughout this trying year.""

Text of the resolution.

As February is also National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, Graves is once again featuring Career and Technical Centers across his district on his Facebook page this week, highlighting how schools across the state have adapted to continue providing students with workforce-ready skills during the pandemic.

Graves also joined Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Glenn ‘GT' Thompson (R-PA), co-chairs of the Career and Technical Education Caucus, in introducing H. Res. 99, a bipartisan resolution recognizing National CTE Month, which celebrates the value and impact of career and technical education programs across the nation.

""Now, more than ever, students are looking to Career and Technical Education programs to prepare them to enter the workforce,"" said Graves. ""Schools across North Missouri have done an excellent job meeting this growing demand and training students with the career-ready skills they need to compete for high-paying in-demand jobs in nursing, mechanics, construction, and many other industries.""

CTE prepares students for careers in fields such as healthcare, information technology, and the skilled trades. By 2026, health care occupations alone are projected to grow by 18 percent, adding more than 2 million jobs nationwide. It is also projected that 3 million workers will be needed to support investments in the nation's infrastructure in the next decade.

More than 12 million students are enrolled in CTE programs at high schools, career academies, CTE centers, and two-year colleges across the country. Participation in CTE programs has been linked to better attendance and higher high school graduation rates. The resolution recognizes the importance of CTE and encourages educators, counselors, career development professionals, and parents to promote CTE as an option for students.

Text of the resolution",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases/graves-joins-sen-blunt-mo-delegation-letter-urging-ferc-review-address-natural,"Graves Joins Sen. Blunt, MO Delegation in Letter Urging FERC to Review & Address Natural Gas Supply Issues",2021-02-18,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Sam Graves,G000546,graves.house.gov,graves,https://graves.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Sam Graves joined U.S. Senator Roy Blunt (Mo.) and other members of the Missouri congressional delegation in a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) urging the commission to quickly review and address concerns regarding the nation's natural gas supply as weather-related energy demand spikes in Missouri and several other states.

""Due to the surge in energy demand across the state, residents have been experiencing electricity outages, rolling blackouts, and controlled service interruptions during an incredibly precarious time as temperatures continue to drop,"" the members wrote. ""Our offices have also received information suggesting that limited supplies of natural gas are also exacerbating the situation and are forcing utility providers to find alternative sources of energy during this time of emergency in an effort to provide reliable sources of power to residents and customers to heat their homes and keep businesses from operating or manufacturing. …

""We respectfully request FERC to expeditiously review the circumstances of this situation as it relates to natural gas supplies, the rates of interstate transmission of natural gas, and take the necessary steps needed to address this crisis.""

Full text of the letter below and here.

The Honorable Richard Glick

Chairman

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

888 First Street, NE

Washington, D.C. 20426

Dear Chairman Glick,

On behalf of our constituents, including residents, farmers, and businesses in Missouri, we write today to raise a dire situation relating to natural gas shortages in Missouri and across the Midwest as the increase in energy demand continues to strain the electric grid. We wanted to make certain that you and your fellow Commissioners are aware of the concern in an effort to ensure there is a continued supply of affordable natural gas in Midwest states.

Due to the surge in energy demand across the state, residents have been experiencing electricity outages, rolling blackouts, and controlled service interruptions during an incredibly precarious time as temperatures continue to drop. Our offices have also received information suggesting that limited supplies of natural gas are also exacerbating the situation and are forcing utility providers to find alternative sources of energy during this time of emergency in an effort to provide reliable sources of power to residents and customers to heat their homes and keep businesses from operating or manufacturing.

We appreciate the initial steps that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) have taken to date in opening a joint inquiry on the impacts of severe winter weather on grid operations. We respectfully request FERC to expeditiously review the circumstances of this situation as it relates to natural gas supplies, the rates of interstate transmission of natural gas, and take the necessary steps needed to address this crisis. In light of these challenges, we need to ensure there is an adequate supply of affordable energy and natural gas for families, farmers, and businesses in Missouri and the Midwest. We look forward to working with you and stand ready to assist in any way possible.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.

Sincere regards,

Roy Blunt, United States Senator

Josh Hawley, United States Senator

Emanuel Cleaver, II, Member of Congress

Blaine Luetkemeyer, Member of Congress

Jason Smith, Member of Congress

Sam Graves, Member of Congress

Vicky Hartzler, Member of Congress

Ann Wagner, Member of Congress

Billy Long, Member of Congress

Cc: Commissioner Chatterjee

Commissioner Danly

Commissioner Clements

Commissioner Christie",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z
https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/wagner-and-castro-introduce-southeast-asia-strategy-act,Wagner and Castro Introduce Southeast Asia Strategy Act,2021-02-17,2021,2021-02,Republican,House,MO,Ann Wagner,W000812,wagner.house.gov,wagner,https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) and Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX), co-chairs and co-founders of the Congressional Caucus on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), introduced the Southeast Asia Strategy Act.

""A secure and independent Southeast Asia greatly benefits the United States and contributes to the prosperity of our local economies,"" said Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO), Vice Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. ""With the People's Republic of China aggressively seeking to expand its influence in the region via coercive diplomacy and predatory lending practices, it is more important than ever that the United States prioritize robust and sustained engagement with its Southeast Asian partners and allies. This bill will strengthen our cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and enhance our partnerships in this strategically critical region.""

""Southeast Asia is an increasingly important region that is critical to America's security and prosperity,"" said Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX), the Chairman of the Subcommittee on International Development, International Organizations, and Global Corporate Social Impact. ""This legislation will ensure that the United States has a coherent strategy that engages countries in the region with mutual respect, while making ASEAN central to a free and open Indo-Pacific.""

The Southeast Asia Strategy Act would deepen U.S. engagement with ASEAN and its member states by instructing the United States to develop a coherent and clearly communicated regional strategy that addresses all aspects of the relationship, from trade and humanitarian goals to diplomatic and security arrangements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:26:35Z