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://www.armstrong.senate.gov/senator-armstrong-praises-bipartisan-permitting-reform-package-advancing-key-reforms-to-get-america-building-again/,Senator Armstrong Praises Bipartisan Permitting Reform Package Advancing Key Reforms to Get America Building Again,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 30, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

Senator Armstrong Praises Bipartisan Permitting Reform Package Advancing Key Reforms to Get America Building Again

PACKAGE REFLECTS KEY ARMSTRONG PRIORITIES AND MONTHS OF WORK TO BUILD CONSENSUS FOR COMPREHENSIVE PERMITTING REFORM

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) praised Chairman Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Chairman Mike Lee (R-UT), along with Ranking Members Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Martin Heinrich (R-NM), for reaching a historic, bipartisan deal on theBipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026, saying the proposal incorporates key reforms he has championed to make the federal permitting process faster, more predictable, and more durable.

Senator Armstrong released the following statement:

“I came to the Senate determined to help America build again, and I have been willing to work with anyone—Republican or Democrat—who is serious about fixing our broken permitting system. I applaud my colleagues in Congress on both sides of the aisle and the Trump administration for staying at the table and finding common ground. This agreement shows that comprehensive permitting reform is possible. Let’s finish the job when we come back in November and get this package to the President’s desk.

“The reality is that meaningful, lasting reform doesn’t happen when politicians retreat to their partisan corners or demand 100 percent of their wish list—it happens when leaders are willing to do the difficult work of sitting at the table, and finding genuine common ground. On an issue as vital as energy and infrastructure, compromise isn’t about surrendering our principles or lowering standards; it’s about crafting an energy-neutral, practical framework that delivers real results for the American people, lowers utility bills, and strengthens our national security. If we want to solve generational challenges instead of just passing the buck down the road, we have to put country over party and do the tough, collaborative work required to get durable reform across the finish line.

“Just as important, this agreement reflects a massive, cross-sector coalition that has hit the exact same regulatory wall. From conventional energy and manufacturing to mining, electric transmission, transportation, and renewables, industries across our economy are pounding the table together because they recognize that if America is going to compete globally, we have to restore our ability to build.”

BACKGROUND

Armstrong has made comprehensive permitting reform a central legislative priority since taking office in March 2026. He introduced S. 4944, the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure (AEMI) Act, to address the major federal barriers that delay energy, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects, and was joined by 20 co-sponsors.

The Committee’s package includes key pillars of that effort, including:

Reforms to Section 401 of the Clean Water Act to promote consistent, evidence-based environmental decision-making across infrastructure projects;

Greater certainty for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) general and nationwide permits by eliminating duplicative review, extending permit terms, and incorporating judicial reforms to reduce baseless litigation;

Statutory clarification to re-enable essential mining activities on federal lands; and

Targeted National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reforms that clarify the scope of review, reaffirm NEPA’s procedural nature, and establish judicial review standards designed to prevent the law from being used to indefinitely stall critical infrastructure projects.

Since taking office, Armstrong has engaged in a sustained effort to build support across industries for comprehensive permitting reform. In June, he hosted Getting America Building Again: Permitting Reform and America’s Competitive Future on Capitol Hill, convening more than 150 business leaders and policy experts around a shared blueprint for reform. He used his inaugural Senate floor speech to lay out the core elements of the AEMI Act and continued pressing the case at major energy and infrastructure forums throughout the summer.",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-lankford-coons-resolution-honoring-50-years-of-prison-fellowship-passes-senate-unanimously/,"ICYMI: Lankford, Coons Resolution Honoring 50 Years of Prison Fellowship Passes Senate Unanimously",2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) secured unanimous Senate passage of their resolution recognizing 50 years of Prison Fellowship’s work to bring faith-based rehabilitation, restoration, and second chances to people impacted by incarceration. The bipartisan resolution recognizes Prison Fellowship’s nationwide impact and comes months after Lankford celebrated the launch of the organization’s first federal Prison Fellowship Academy at the Federal Correctional Institution in El Reno, Oklahoma.

“Prison Fellowship has spent 50 years helping people understand that a mistake does not have to be the end of their story,” said Lankford. “Their work points people to Christ, helps restore families, and gives people the opportunity to change. I’m grateful for the staff and volunteers who have stayed committed to this work for five decades, and I’m glad to recognize Prison Fellowship on its 50th anniversary.”

“The first time I was in a maximum-security prison, I was 12 years old, joining my father on one of his prison ministry visits,” said Coons. “I saw how prison ministry transformed the lives of both those inside the prison and for our family outside of it. For 50 years, Prison Fellowship has brought that transformation to communities across the country, answering Jesus’ call to love our neighbors no matter where or who they are.”

“Chuck Colson once described his imprisonment as ‘the great humiliation of my life’—yet God used that humiliation for a greater purpose,” said Scott Peyton, Senior Director of Advocacy. “Fifty years later, Prison Fellowship continues that legacy, encountering Jesus with those impacted by incarceration, equipping the Church, and advancing justice that restores. We are deeply grateful to Senators James Lankford and Chris Coons for their leadership, and to the United States Senate for honoring fifty years of transformed lives and the enduring truth that no life is beyond the reach of God’s grace.”

Background

Lankford has spent years working to expand opportunities for faith-based organizations to serve individuals in federal prisons. In 2018, Lankford supported the bipartisan First Step Actand successfully amended the legislation to ensure faith-based organizations could provide job training, social development, and family programming on equal footing with non-faith-based organizations. That work helped establish the framework for faith-based rehabilitation programs like Prison Fellowship to partner with the Bureau of Prisons.

In June 2026, Lankford celebrated the launch of the first federal Prison Fellowship Academy at the Federal Correctional Institution in El Reno, Oklahoma. The Prison Fellowship Academy became the first nonprofit program designated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons as an evidence-based recidivism reduction program under the First Step Act. Lankford has continued to champion faith-based rehabilitation and successful reentry through bipartisan efforts including the MERCY Act and the Safer Supervision Act.

Founded in 1976 by the late Charles Colson following his conversion to Christianity during incarceration, Prison Fellowship is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026. The organization serves prisoners, former prisoners, and their families through programs focused on rehabilitation, restoration, and second chances.

You can download the full text of the resolution HERE.

###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-leads-senate-in-honoring-50-years-of-the-hyde-amendment/,Lankford Leads Senate in Honoring 50 Years of the Hyde Amendment,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"Resolution Recognizes 50 Years of Bipartisan Support for the Hyde Amendment and its Protections for Unborn Children

WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Chair of the Senate Values Action Team, introduced a resolution recognizing the Hyde Amendment’s 50th anniversary and its enduring legacy of protecting unborn children and upholding the conscience rights of American taxpayers. The resolution commemorates 50 years of the Hyde Amendment by recognizing its legacy of saving more than 2.6 million lives while affirming that federal taxpayers should not be compelled to fund abortions in violation of their deeply held religious and moral beliefs.

“For 50 years, the Hyde Amendment has been an important protection for American taxpayers,” said Lankford. “Every child is valuable. No American should ever wonder if the check they’re sending to the IRS on April 15 will be used to pay for someone’s elective abortion. Hyde was a bipartisan agreement five decades ago, and it has been included in appropriations bills every year since. We should keep that commitment in place.”

You can download the text of the resolution HERE or below:

Whereas September 30, 2026, marks the 50th anniversary of the Hyde Amendment, a longstanding pro-life provision which protects Federal taxpayer dollars from being used to take human life through elective abortion;

Whereas, in 1976, Congressman Henry J. Hyde introduced an amendment, which bears his name, to House of Representatives Bill No. 14232, 94th Congress (referred to in this preamble as the “Hyde Amendment”);

Whereas, in introducing his amendment, Congressman Hyde explained, “We who seek to protect that most defenseless and innocent of human lives, the unborn—seek to inhibit the use of Federal funds to pay for and thus encourage abortion as an answer to the human and compelling problem of an unwanted child.”;

Whereas the Hyde Amendment was adopted by Congress, shortly after Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973) was decided, by a bipartisan vote and has been renewed in both Republican and Democratic majorities through the annual appropriations process for 50 years;

Whereas, since 1976, more than 2,600,000 lives have been saved by the Hyde Amendment;

Whereas the Hyde Amendment reflects the bipartisan principle that American Federal taxpayer dollars should not be used to finance abortions, safeguarding taxpayers’ conscience rights;

Whereas public funding of abortion makes the American taxpayer complicit in the physical, emotional, and societal harm caused to women by abortion and increases the pressure a woman may already feel to have an abortion;

Whereas the 50th anniversary of the Hyde Amendment provides an opportunity to remember the more than 64,000,000 abortions that have taken place in the United States since the Roe v. Wade decision; and

Whereas every human life in the womb has inherent dignity and worth, is not inconvenient, and has the right to life: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate—

(1) recognizes the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the amendment by Congressman Henry Hyde (referred to in this resolution as the “Hyde Amendment”);

(2) commemorates the adoption of the Hyde Amendment in 1976, and its continued inclusion in Federal appropriations bills for 5 decades;

(3) honors the legacy of Congressman Hyde and recognizes his leadership in establishing the policy that bears his name;

(4) recognizes the 2,600,000 lives saved by the Hyde Amendment;

(5) affirms the principle that Federal taxpayers should not be compelled to fund abortions in violation of their deeply held religious, moral, medical, or ethical convictions;

(6) recognizes the Members of Congress, advocates, citizens, and organizations that have worked for more than 5 decades to preserve protections for unborn children and to maintain limitations on the use of Federal funds for abortion; and

(7) encourages the people of the United States to reflect upon the history and significance of the Hyde Amendment and the loss of more than 64,000,000 babies through abortions that have taken place since Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973).

Background

Congressman Henry Hyde first introduced the Hyde Amendment in 1976, and it has been included in federal appropriations bills for five decades. Lankford’s resolution recognizes the amendment’s bipartisan history and its role in protecting taxpayers from being compelled to fund abortions in violation of their deeply held religious, moral, medical, or ethical convictions. The resolution also recognizes more than 2.6 million unborn children whom it attributes to having been saved by the Hyde Amendment.

Joining Lankford in introducing the resolution are Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Justice (R-WV), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Risch (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Jim Banks (R-IN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mike Lee (R-UT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Darline Graham (R-SC), Katie Britt (R-AL), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), and Dave McCormick (R-PA).

Rep. Smith (R-NJ-04) introduced companion legislation in the House along with 27 other House members, including Reps. John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Riley Moore (R-WV-02), Robert Aderholt (R-AL-04), Brian Babin (R-TX-36), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05), Ben Cline (R-VA-06), Michael Cloud (R-TX-27), Andrew Clyde (R-GA-09), Warren Davidson (R-OH-08), Ron Estes (R-KS-04), Harriet Hageman (R-WY-AL), Andy Harris (R-MD-01), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01), Addison McDowell (R-NC-06), John McGuire (R-VA-05), Mary Miller (R-IL-15), Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01), Ralph Norman (R-SC-05), Bob Onder (R-MO-03), John Rutherford (R-FL-05), Keith Self (R-TX-03), Mike Simpson (R-ID-02), Pete Stauber (R-MN-08), Glenn Thompson (R-PA-15), Daniel Webster (R-FL-11), and Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02).

Supporting organizations include CatholicVote, Americans United for Life, National Right to Life Committee, Live Action, March for Life Action, Concerned Women for America, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Students for Life Action, Heritage Action, Alliance Defending Freedom, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Heartbeat International, United States Council of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Family Research Council.

You can learn more about the resolution in the Daily Wire HERE.

###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-cruz-introduce-bill-to-protect-students-pursuing-ministry-from-losing-federal-student-aid/,"Lankford, Cruz Introduce Bill to Protect Students Pursuing Ministry From Losing Federal Student Aid",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), chairman of the Senate Values Action Team, and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Religious Education Fairness Act, legislation that would protect students studying for ministry and other religious vocations from losing access to federal student aid under a new earnings test. The bill protects programs classified as Theology and Religious Vocations or Philosophy and Religious Studies at eligible educational institutions from the Working Families Tax Cut Act’s “Do No Harm” provision, which puts federal student aid at risk based on graduates’ earnings.

“A student who feels called to pastor a church or serve as a missionary should not lose access to student aid because Washington measures the value of that calling by a paycheck,” said Lankford. “The Religious Education Fairness Act protects those students pursuing ministry from a test that was never designed for them.

Groups supporting the bill are Alliance Defending Freedom, the Association for Biblical Higher Education, the Orthodox Union, the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges & Schools, the International Alliance for Christian Education, and the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities.

Background

The Working Families Tax Cut Act enacted an earnings-based accountability measure, known as the “Do No Harm” (DNH) provision. Under the statute, post-graduation earnings data will be used to determine whether certain programs remain eligible for federal Direct Loans. On July 1, 2026, the Department of Education finalized its rule implementing the earnings-based accountability measure. The rule also established a new administrative capability requirement that threatens programmatic and institutional eligibility for other Higher Education Act Title IV programs, such as Pell Grants and Federal Work-Study. Given that many religious vocations are service-oriented rather than high-paying careers, the DNH provision and the final rule could disproportionately impact students pursuing ministry and other religious vocations. Applying the earnings test to these programs would substantially burden religious exercise and violate the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

The Religious Education Fairness Act uses the existing Title IX religious exemption framework to identify eligible institutions and protects covered programs from losing Direct Loan eligibility under the “Do No Harm” earnings test and other Title IV eligibility under the rule’s administrative capability requirement.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-rosen-urge-meta-to-take-action-to-address-spread-of-antisemitic-content-online-2/,"Lankford, Rosen Urge Meta to Take Action to Address Spread of Antisemitic Content Online",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"Senators Demanded Answers on Meta’s Current Safeguards Against Fake Accounts, or Bots, Spreading Antisemitism

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, sent a bipartisan letter to Meta requesting details on the company’s current protections to prevent bots and other inauthentic accounts from spreading antisemitic content on Instagram and Facebook. The Senators also asked that Meta expand their existing protections to safeguard users and limit the spread of antisemitic content on their platforms. This comes after both Senators introduced a comprehensive bill to strengthen federal efforts to fight antisemitism, including online.

“As members of the US Senate committed to combating antisemitism in all of its forms, we write to express grave concerns regarding the persistent problem of inauthentic accounts and ‘bot farm’ operations abusing social media platforms to develop and spread antisemitic content on your platforms,” wrote the Senators. “We also request information about Meta’s current safeguards and enforcement mechanisms to prevent platform abuse by inauthentic accounts on Instagram and Facebook, and to urge Meta to implement reforms to protect users, limit the proliferation of antisemitic content, and strengthen its transparency measures against inauthentic behavior, including by labeling accounts’ country of origin for the American public.”

“Research has shown how inauthentic social media accounts, sometimes as part of a network of accounts created by foreign actors, can be used to promote antisemitism online and accelerate calls for violence against Jewish Americans…We cannot continue to play catch up as foreign agents and extremists abuse American social media platforms to spread hate and sow discord on American soil and across the globe,” the Senators concluded. “We need collaboration with our most influential social media companies to bring our digital space to a higher level of transparency and integrity. Labeling Facebook and Instagram accounts with their country of origin would be an impactful step toward combatting foreign-based influence networks.”

You can read the full text of the letter HERE and can learn more about it HERE in Jewish Insider.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-kaine-introduce-jimmy-lai-internet-freedom-act-to-counter-chinas-internet-censorship-in-hong-kong/,"Lankford, Kaine Introduce Jimmy Lai Internet Freedom Act to Counter China’s Internet Censorship in Hong Kong",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today introduced the bipartisan Jimmy Lai Internet Freedom Act to assist the people of Hong Kong in circumventing Chinese Communist Party (CCP) censorship and maintain access to a free and open internet.

The bill is named in honor of Jimmy Lai, the Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and publisher who was sentenced to 20 years in prison by a Hong Kong court after being convicted under Beijing’s National Security Law. The legislation responds to the CCP’s continued erosion of Hong Kong’s freedoms and expanding efforts to restrict access to information online. The bill notes that Beijing has used its National Security Law to suppress freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and the press, while granting authorities expanded power to censor online content and obtain user information.

“The Chinese Communist Party has spent years tightening its grip on Hong Kong, and now it is working to control what people can see, say, and share online,” said Lankford. This bill is about standing up for a free and open internet, pushing back against Beijing’s model of censorship, and protecting American leadership in technology and freedom. We should not allow the CCP to export its model of censorship beyond its borders.”

Background

The legislation would establish a Hong Kong Internet Freedom Program within the State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor and a corresponding program at the Open Technology Fund. The programs would coordinate with an interagency working group to develop a strategy for strengthening internet resiliency and online access in Hong Kong.

Lankford has long worked on a bipartisan basis to confront the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to undermine freedom and spread authoritarian influence.

The Jimmy Lai Internet Freedom Act would:

Establish a Hong Kong Internet Freedom Program at the Department of State and Open Technology Fund.

Support technologies that allow Hongkongers to circumvent internet blocking, filtering, and censorship.

Support virtual private networks and other firewall circumvention tools.

Provide digital security and resiliency support to pro-democracy activists and civil society organizations.

Require a strategic planning report outlining the federal government’s efforts to expand internet freedom and circumvention technology in Hong Kong.

Lankford and Kaine first introduced the Safeguarding Internet Freedom in Hong Kong Act after Beijing imposed its National Security Law on Hong Kong. That legislation sought to develop and deploy firewall circumvention technology to help Hongkongers access information and communicate freely. Lankford has continued to work with Kaine on the legislation, including reintroducing it in 2023.

Lankford has repeatedly called attention to Beijing’s repression of Hong Kong, including joining bipartisan efforts condemning the destruction of Hong Kong’s democracy and rule of law and the political persecution of Jimmy Lai and other pro-democracy advocates. He has also supported the Hong Kong Safe Harbor Act to protect Hongkongers who face persecution for peacefully opposing Beijing.

Lankford has also worked more broadly to counter the CCP’s influence and human rights abuses, including through his service on the Congressional-Executive Commission on China and legislation addressing China’s economic coercion, human rights abuses, and influence operations.

You can download the full bill textHERE.

###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-coons-bipartisan-resolution-on-religious-freedom-and-transparency-in-artificial-intelligence-passes-senate/,"Lankford, Coons Bipartisan Resolution on Religious Freedom and Transparency in Artificial Intelligence Passes Senate",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) today announced that their bipartisan Senate resolution affirming the importance of religious freedom and calling on developers of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to adopt clear standards for transparency and fair treatment of religious viewpoints passed the Senate unanimously last night.

“Religious freedom is the first freedom in our Constitution. It protects the right of every person to have a faith, live their faith, change their faith, or have no faith at all,” said Lankford. “AI is a system that researches ideas, opinions, and facts, but it is not the final word on faith. On issues of faith, AI systems should send users to the sacred texts and to the faith leaders who have walked with people through joy and grief for generations.”

“One’s choice of faith – or whether or not to believe at all – is one of the most intensely personal decisions anyone can make, and Americans are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence when looking for answers to life’s big questions,” said Coons. “AI users should be given the full breadth and depth of answers humanity has to offer without preference to creed or spirituality. That’s what’s right and what’s consistent with our nation’s values.”

Background

The resolution affirms religious freedom as a bedrock constitutional liberty, recognizes that bias or discrimination against any religious group harms a free and just society, and calls on organizations that design, develop, or operate AI systems to adopt clear and consistently applied standards that uphold religious freedom and transparency.

The resolution:

Affirms the importance of religious freedom as a bedrock and central constitutional liberty for every person.

Recognizes that bias or discrimination against any religious group, person of faith, person who changes their faith, or person who has no faith at all is harmful to a free and just society.

Encourages all organizations that design, develop, or operate AI systems to adopt clear and consistently applied standards that uphold universal principles of religious freedom and transparency.

Supports the development and deployment of AI systems that provide responses to religious questions that are thorough and fairly representative of relevant beliefs, texts, traditions, and perspectives.

Commends the American people to consult primary sources and religious leaders when seeking to understand religious beliefs and traditions, including sacred texts and other authoritative writings of those traditions.

You can download the full resolution text HERE.

###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-coons-britt-and-schatz-introduce-bipartisan-ai-safety-and-transparency-legislation/,"Lankford, Coons, Britt, and Schatz Introduce Bipartisan AI Safety and Transparency Legislation",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Chris Coons (D-DE), Katie Britt (R-AL), and Brian Schatz (D-HI) introduced the AI Systems Transparency Act (ASTA), which would require AI companies to be more transparent with the public about what data their models are collecting from users, the safeguards they’ve put in place for children and adults, and the guardrails they’ve created to stop systems from going rogue or being used dangerously by bad actors.

Under ASTA, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would have the power to enforce these transparency requirements, while ensuring that companies can continue to grow and innovate.

“Trust has to be earned, and right now families are being asked to trust AI companies with very little information,” said Lankford. “The AI Systems Transparency Act gives parents and consumers the straightforward answers on how these AI models are built and how they interact with America’s children. Transparency on innovation earns the public’s trust.”

“AI is rapidly evolving in ways that are radically reshaping our society and transforming our world and how we interact with each other, and Americans are rightfully concerned about what AI companies and their government are doing to protect against worst case scenarios,” said Coons. “Companies must not be allowed to hand wave away these doubts without meaningful disclosures, safeguards, and oversight in place. Americans deserve to know what they are actually doing to place safety guardrails on large AI models, and that’s what this bipartisan bill will ensure.”

“Americans are understandably concerned with the rapid development of AI, and they deserve straight answers. We know that this technology is not slowing down, which is why it’s critical that AI companies provide transparency to both researchers and parents on how their systems work and address potential risks—especially risks related to America’s youth. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this effort to provide the American people visibility into how these systems are built, tested, and secured,” said Britt.

“Recent reports of security incidents with AI models make transparency and oversight all the more urgent. Our bill requires disclosures that help both consumers and evaluators understand both the capabilities of and risks posed by these models and what companies are doing to keep people safe,” said Schatz.

Background

ASTA would apply to closed and open-source models. It would:

Establish criteria for the size and scope of companies over which the FTC would gain jurisdiction.

Require disclosure of information about structure and policies typically included on “model cards.”

Require disclosure of preventative safeguards used for child safety, mental health, privacy, cybersecurity, disaster risk, and autonomous loss-of-control.

Require disclosure of information relating to common violations of policies.

Require companies to update all disclosures with each new model or substantial updates to an existing model.

Require both a consumer-facing disclosure and a disclosure that can be of use to independent researchers and evaluators.

The introduction of this bill builds upon letters that Sens. Lankford, Schatz, Britt, and Coons sent in December 2025 to OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, Meta, Luka, Character.AI, and xAI, calling on these companies to improve transparency around the capabilities of their models and the risks they pose to users.

A one-pager on the bill is available HERE.

Read the full text of the bill HERE.

###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-remembers-victims-of-chinese-communist-party-on-105th-anniversary/,Lankford Remembers Victims of Chinese Communist Party on 105th Anniversary,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and Angus King (I-ME) today introduced a bipartisan resolution observing the 105th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) coming into power and remembering the countless lives destroyed by the CCP’s decades-long campaign of political and religious repression.

The resolution comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping visits Washington for a state visit with President Donald Trump. It documents the CCP’s history of mass persecution, including the Great Chinese Famine, the Tiananmen Square massacre, and decades of repression against religious minorities and political dissidents. It also highlights the CCP’s ongoing persecution of Christians, Uyghur Muslims, Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong practitioners, and others, as well as its efforts to conduct transnational repression against dissidents living outside China.

“For 105 years, the Chinese Communist Party has oppressed its own people, persecuted people of faith, and denied basic freedoms,” said Lankford. “As the United States engages with Beijing, we cannot forget the millions who have suffered under the CCP or those who continue to live under its repression today. The United States must continue to stand for religious freedom, human rights, and the dignity of every person.”

“Abraham Lincoln, at his Gettysburg Address, famously said that a government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth,” said King. “And while we, as Americans, have had differing views on policy, we all believe that freedom and democracy are at the core of our country’s values. That’s why we have chosen to highlight the immeasurable consequences that the Chinese communist party has done to its own people –and the global community—since it came to power more than 100 years ago. With this resolution, and on the heels of the Trump-Xi summit, we remember the countless lives that the Chinese Communist Party has destroyed and recommit to the basic tenets of equality and liberty.”

Background

The resolution also recognizes the CCP’s continued political, military, economic, and social pressure against Taiwan and its efforts to undermine religious freedom and fundamental human rights.

Lankford has long worked on a bipartisan basis to confront religious persecution in China. Earlier this year, Lankford and bipartisan colleagues urged President Trump to raise the case of imprisoned Pastor Ezra Jin directly with Xi. President Trump subsequently raised Jin’s case with Xi, and Chinese authorities released Jin in July.

You can learn more about the resolution HERE in Fox News and can download it HERE.

###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-water-resources-development-act-2026,Cole Votes in Favor of Water Resources Development Act of 2026,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026:

“Last night, the House voted in a bipartisan manner to address important water resource needs throughout our nation. This legislation will improve water resources infrastructure across our nation, grow the American economy, build and maintain safe waterways, improve flood protection, and more,” said Congressman Cole. “I’d like to thank House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Sam Graves of Missouri for his work on this legislation, as it will deliver much needed benefits to so many American communities, including the Fourth District of Oklahoma.”

Oklahoma District Four Wins in H.R. 9497

Increased the authorization from $15 million to $20 million for the Midwest City Water Infrastructure Project for a new water tank and booster pump station.

$45 million in authorization for construction of new water lines from Oklahoma City to Newcastle, Tuttle, Goldsby, and Blanchard. This will help allow for a more regionalized water system in the area that will keep rates lower and reduce maintenance over time.

Arbuckle-Timbered Hills Aquifer Recharge and Regional Water Supply Feasibility Study, which will evaluate storage capacity and recharge potential, assess opportunities for managed aquifer recharge and aquifer storage to serve communities in Lawton and at Fort Sill.

###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/armstrong-on-535-news-its-time-to-do-whats-right-for-the-country/,Armstrong on 535 News: It’s Time to Do What’s Right for the Country,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 17, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

Armstrong on 535 News: It’s Time to Do What’s Right for the Country

ARMSTRONG CALLS FOR BIPARTISAN COURAGE TO FIX BROKEN FEDERAL APPROVAL PROCESSES ACROSS RENEWABLE, MINING, AND OIL & GAS SECTORS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) appeared on the Capitol Hill-focused 535 News this week to urge immediate congressional action on federal permitting reform. Drawing from his decades of experience as an engineer and later the CEO of the Williams Companies, Armstrong outlined how bureaucratic gridlock and endless judicial appeals continue to undermine American energy independence, AI development, and long-term economic growth.

During the interview, Armstrong emphasized that permitting reform is not an issue tailored to a single industry, but a national imperative that affects all forms of domestic energy and infrastructure development – ranging from transmission lines and critical mining material to domestic natural gas pipelines and traditional energy infrastructure.

KEY EXCERPTS FROM THE INTERVIEW

On the universal scope of permitting reform across all energy sectors:

“It’s not one form of energy. It’s everything. It’s renewables not being able to get connected into markets that need that power. It’s pipelines not being able to displace fuel oil and coal, which is so much more expensive and so much more emissions. There are mines that we desperately need here in the U.S. to be able to continue to not have to import it from sources that are not so friendly to us… The focus of permitting reform should not be to try to select what energy source we’re going to use; it should make it simpler and with great confidence in being able to get a permit if you go through the process.”

On how states arbitrarily block interstate projects under Sec. 401 of the Clean Water Act:

“Nobody is asking for, ‘Hey, let’s lower the environmental protections.’ That is not what any of these bills are about. They’re simply about bringing certainty and a set of standards… Today, a state is not bound by those. A state can come up with whatever rules they want to on the fly. And so, if you have a pipeline that’s going through multiple states, and a state says, ‘Well, what am I getting out of this?’ And it becomes popular to stop it because the NGOs come in and want to have something to fight about… it’s completely arbitrary as to whether a state’s going to issue you the 401 certificate.”

On the need for judicial reform and fixing regulatory uncertainty:

“The bill takes on things like judicial reform, because one of the primary things that people can’t afford is to get caught up in litigation… I personally sat in a situation where we had a billion-dollar pipeline that we had spent four and a half years getting the permit done. Got the permit. It was up and running for 9 months, and a court came in and vacated a FERC certificate… You can’t have projects that are up and running, you went through all the law required, you went through an entire EIS process, and somebody comes up with something that they didn’t raise during the EIS process and raises it after the fact, holding the project up for 3.7 years.”

On why existing big energy incumbents benefit from gridlock while America falls behind:

“A lot of people think, ‘Well, duh, you were a pipeline executive, and so you want to come talk about permitting reform.’ Actually, the incumbent big companies, like the company that I was the CEO for, this has been a bounty to make it difficult to build when you already own a lot of the critical infrastructure. It just makes your infrastructure more and more valuable… But long-term, our country is not going to be the great country that we’ve all enjoyed… We have another round of big infrastructure that needs to be built here to support things like AI and modern manufacturing. And if we can’t get it built here, we will fall behind.”

On the need for courage and integrity in the Senate:

“I hope that people will stand tall to the political courage it takes to do what’s right for our country… I wish that there was much more focus on what’s good long-term for the country, even if it’s to somebody’s own political peril to get the right thing done. This is one of those circumstances where people know it’s the right thing.”",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z
https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/armstrong-urges-the-advancement-of-comprehensive-permitting-reform-in-september/,Armstrong Urges the Advancement of Comprehensive Permitting Reform in September,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 16, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

Armstrong Urges the Advancement of Comprehensive Permitting Reform in September

COMPANIES, LABOR, AND ADVOCACY GROUPS CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL ACTION TO GET AMERICA BUILDING AGAIN

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) is urging the advancement of a strong, comprehensive permitting reform package during the September work period. His call comes as companies, trade associations, labor organizations, advocacy groups, and cross-sector stakeholders urge Congress to address permitting delays that raise consumers utility bills and deters competition amongst energy providers.

“I remain confident that the committees of jurisdiction will put forward a strong, effective, well-rounded permitting reform package this upcoming work period,” said Senator Armstrong. “The committee-led effort remains the most viable path to the Senate floor. Congress should seize this historic opportunity to deliver meaningful permitting reform for American families and businesses.”

“Our team’s goal has been to see legislation enacted that brings practical solutions like those included in the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act, solutions supported by a broad, cross-sector coalition. We are anxious to support the committee’s efforts to get this done. However, it is imperative that the final product delivers meaningful structural reforms—not weak workarounds that look good on paper but fail to prevent frivolous litigation unrelated to environmental impacts. The time is right to get this done, as both sides of the aisle recognize the importance of enabling our nation to build with certainty and speed while maintaining the highest protections for our environment.”

Permitting reform does not reduce environmental protections; it simply provides a clear path to getting things built instead of litigated. The ability to build power plants, pipelines, transmission lines, and critical mineral projects helps determine whether manufacturers can expand, advanced technologies can scale, and defense suppliers can secure necessary materials and reliable electricity.

The only groups opposing sensible permitting reform are those who profit from stopping American progress.

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: CALLS ACROSS THE ECONOMY

Momentum for permitting reform grew during the Senate’s August recess. From energy producers and manufacturers to labor, environmental advocates, and state leaders, stakeholders agree: America cannot deliver affordable energy, strengthen supply chains, or compete globally if it cannot build. Their message reinforces Senator Armstrong’s call for Congress to advance a strong, bipartisan package.

CONGRESSIONAL AND STATE LEADERS: THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW

“We are in the midst of negotiating something that I think could be game-changing for the country, and this is permitting reform,” said Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

Source: Steven Allen Adams, “Capito, Justice Focus Remarks on Energy at 90th Annual W.Va. Chamber Meeting,” Parkersburg News and Sentinel, September 4, 2026.

“When it comes to permitting reform, if we can actually pull this off … it means lower energy prices for all Americans,” said Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH).

Source: “Ted Cruz Names ‘Most Powerful Democrat’ as He Warns Socialist Rise Has Paralyzed Bipartisanship,” Fox News, September 4, 2026.

“Permitting reform is affordability. My goal with permitting reform is simple: make America the best place in the world to build, invest, and innovate,” wrote Senator Jon Husted (R-OH).

Source: Senator Jon Husted, “On the Phone with Ohioans,” September 4, 2026.

“We need to pass permitting reform and actually increase domestic production of energy—including in New York,” saidRepresentative Mike Lawler (R-NY).

Source: “Swing-District Republicans Brace for a Midterm Storm,” New York Post, September 10, 2026.

“We need permitting reform. … We need Congress to act so that we can build the infrastructure that will help us to bring down prices,” said Utah Governor Spencer Cox.

Source: “Transcript: Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on ‘Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,’ Sept. 13, 2026,” CBS News, September 13, 2026.

“Permitting reform means more certainty for landowners, more investment in rural communities and more good-paying jobs for Oklahomans,” wrote Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt.

Source: Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt), X, September 2, 2026.

“Slow, burdensome, and bureaucratic permitting hurts our economy, slows investment in the state, and reduces opportunity for Coloradans,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

Source: Office of Colorado Governor Jared Polis, August 6, 2026.

LOWER COSTS AND AFFORDABLE ENERGY

“If we have permitting reform, we think it will lower most energy prices by up to about 20%,” said David McIntosh, President of Club for Growth.

Source: “Energy Summit Links Permitting Reform to Power Bills,” Spectrum News, September 4, 2026.

“Permitting reform is the most effective step Congress can take to deliver affordable, reliable energy to American families and businesses,” said Brandon Arnold of the National Taxpayers Union.

Source: “Congress Pushed to Act Now to Stop Looming Crisis for America’s Electric Grid,” The Washington Times, September 14, 2026.

“Permitting reform isn’t simply an energy issue or an environmental issue. It is an affordability issue,” wrote former Senator Pat Toomey.

Source: “America’s Broken Permitting System Is Quietly Raising Your Cost of Living,” Fox News, August 17, 2026.

“Permitting reform means more jobs, lower costs, and stronger communities,” the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry wrote.

Source: Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry (@PAChamber), X, September 3, 2026.

“America’s energy and economic future depends on our ability to build the infrastructure needed to meet this moment. Lengthy and unpredictable permitting processes can add years of delay and significant costs to critical energy infrastructure projects, costs that ultimately impact customers. Permitting reform is an important step toward keeping energy affordable, strengthening reliability, and delivering the infrastructure needed to efficiently meet growing demand. By streamlining reviews while maintaining appropriate state and environmental standards, policymakers can help protect customers and support a more resilient energy system,” saidMatthew Satterwhite, Head of U.S. Policy and Regulatory Strategy at National Grid.

Source: direct statement, August 28, 2026.

“Senator Armstrong recognizes how America’s broken permitting system can delay the infrastructure we need, and his leadership has brought renewed urgency to this debate. Too many critical energy projects remain tied up for years in red tape, making it harder to deliver affordable, reliable energy to American families. We urge lawmakers to come together this year to pass durable, bipartisan permitting reform,” said Kristin Whitman, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at the American Petroleum Institute.

Source: The Washington Reporter, August 23, 2026.

POWER, GRID RELIABILITY AND AMERICA’S GROWING ENERGY NEEDS

“We are highly supportive of Senator Armstrong’s legislation, the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act. We thank him for his hard work on this bill, and we are hopeful that we can get this critical policy moving forward. […] As electricity demand continues to grow, meeting our future energy needs will require us to build new generation and critical infrastructure more quickly and efficiently. We thank Senator Armstrong for his leadership on this critically important issue at such a vital time, and we want to draft in his wake to help make these reforms successful,” said Todd Snitchler, President and CEO, Electric Power Supply Association.

Source: Energy Solutions podcast, “Get America Building: Senator Alan Armstrong on Energy Infrastructure and Permitting Reform”, August 12, 2026

“America’s energy future is stuck at the starting line,” wrote Amy Andryszak, President and CEO of INGAA, and Todd Snitchler, President and CEO of EPSA.

Source: “The Price of Waiting on Pipes and Wires,” New York Daily News, August 26, 2026.

“Permitting reform is a great opportunity. It’s sorely needed. It’s needed now,” said Brian Papp of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.

Source: “Congress Pushed to Act Now to Stop Looming Crisis for America’s Electric Grid,” The Washington Times, September 14, 2026.

“Americans need a power grid that’s bigger and better. But America needs Congress to act to help build the energy infrastructure it needs faster,” wrote Heather O’Neill, president and CEO of Advanced Energy United.

Source: “We Have Enough Power to Light Up America. Washington Won’t Let Us Plug It In,” Washington Examiner, September 12, 2026.

“We’ve got to right-size our permitting in this country to make sure it’s accountable. It’s timely,” said Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Source: “NRECA: America Needs More Power, Not Restrictions on Natural Gas Plants,” RFD-TV, August 31, 2026.

“A permitting system that reliably moves energy to where it’s needed is not optional; it is foundational to affordability, reliability, and national security. @SenArmstrong’s AEMI recognizes this reality and offers a targeted, practical fix: streamline reviews, curb misuse of Section 401, and empower FERC to do its job. Reform is the only path,” the American Consumer Institute wrote on X.

Source: ACI (@consumerpal), X, August 18, 2026

“Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) has introduced S.4944, the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act of 2026, a comprehensive permitting reform package aimed at speeding energy and mineral infrastructure while keeping environmental review in place. […] NHA urges its members to contact their U.S. Senators and ask them to cosponsor and support S.4944.” said the National Hydropower Association in a member action alert.

Source: “Support S.4944, the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act!”

MANUFACTURING, INFRASTRUCTURE AND AMERICAN COMPETITIVENESS

“Thank you, @SenArmstrong for your steadfast leadership on permitting reform. As you rightly point out, American steelmaking depends on affordable, reliable power and we need a permitting system that allows us to build the infrastructure to deliver it. Let’s get permitting reform done and keep American manufacturing moving forward.” the Steel Manufacturers Association wrote on X.

Source: Steel Manufacturers Association (@SMA_Steel), X, August 31, 2026.

“AEMIA [the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act] is a win-win for the cement industry, and the ACA is proud to support it,” wrote Sean O’Neill, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs of the American Cement Association.

Source: Letter, August 19, 2026.

“Modernizing our permitting system, supporting production in the U.S., and investing in innovative technologies will help secure America’s energy advantage and keep us globally competitive while reducing costs for consumers at home. By producing critical chemistries in the U.S., we can avoid supply disruptions, cut shipping costs, and keep energy prices more predictable. That means families can rely on energy to power daily life, from keeping cool to preparing meals and staying connected with loved ones,” posted the American Chemistry Council.

Source: “Powering America’s Future with Chemistry,” blog post, August 5, 2026.

“Permitting reform is one of the most critical, and most bipartisan, infrastructure challenges facing our economy today. We need a permitting process that is predictable, transparent, timely and one that allows America to build the energy infrastructure our economy demands. We encourage Congress to #PermitAmerica2Build,” posted the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce (@USChamber), X, August 21, 2026

“There’s still more that needs to be done on permitting reform and speeding things up. Ohio’s doing a lot of things right, but we could benefit from federal permitting reform, and it would help Ohio really go into a supercharged economic mode—we’ll be a superpower,” said Steve Stivers, President and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce.

Source: State Affairs, September 4, 2026.

“Senator Armstrong is right to make this a priority. His push for permitting reform recognizes something rural Oklahomans already know, a strong economy depends on the ability to build. Congress should use the opportunity in front of it to create a permitting process that is efficient, responsible and durable,” said Monica Collison, President of the Oklahoma Rural Association.

Source: OK Energy Today, August 28, 2026.

“Oklahoma has spent generations helping power the U.S. With a permitting system that provides timely, consistent decisions, our state can continue building the infrastructure needed to meet the country’s growing energy needs for generations. Armstrong’s bill can help make that system a reality,” wrote John Tidwell, State Director of Americans for Prosperity–Oklahoma.

Source: Tulsa World, August 23, 2026.

BIPARTISAN REFORM AND THE NEED FOR A DURABLE DEAL

“CEBA appreciates the work of @SenArmstrong and colleagues across the aisle in looking for common-sense solutions that enable real and lasting reform to existing environmental and permitting laws. We thank the senator for his focus on the issues and continue to hope that a broad, bipartisan deal can be struck in the weeks and months ahead,” posted Corporate Buyers Energy Association.

Source: CEBA (@CEBAPower), X, August 28, 2026.

“Democrats can’t claim to treat climate change as a crisis if they are unwilling to act to solve it. Right now, that means making a deal on permitting with Republican lawmakers and Mr. Trump,” said Jane Flegal, senior fellow at the Searchlight Institute, and Pavan Venkatakrishnan policy fellow at Searchlight at the Searchlight Institute.

Source: “Dems Should Permit Trump a Win,” The Wall Street Journal, September 11, 2026.

“A nation that litigates its own power plants into paralysis disarms itself as surely as if it scrapped its fleet. So the US must build. More generation. More transmission. More pipelines. More refining. More nuclear. More solar. More everything. And to build, we must fix a broken permitting system that stalls energy projects for years to decades. The national heroes of this moment include county commissioners, state legislators, and members of Congress pushing the reforms that ensure America builds at home. Every megawatt we add expands any President’s room to maneuver. It also holds costs down for families. Permitting reform is not a technocratic sideshow. It is a wartime arsenal. It is economic hope for households trying to make the math work. It is an act of civilizational self-defense,” wrote Sarah E. Hunt, CEO and President of the Joseph Rainey Center for Public Policy.

Source: Joseph Rainey Center for Public Policy, X, August 24, 2026.

BACKGROUND

Armstrong introduced the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure (AEMI) Act this summer to provide practical solutions to permitting delays and help get America building again. The legislation offers reforms for consideration as the committees develop a comprehensive package. As of August 12, the bill had 17 Senate cosponsors and support from dozens of outside stakeholders.",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bices-bureau-land-management-mineral-spacing-act-advances-out-natural,Rep. Bice's Bureau of Land Management Mineral Spacing Act Advances out of Natural Resources Committee,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, H.R. 1555, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Mineral Spacing Act, passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would address duplicative federal permitting requirements for oil and natural gas development on lands where the federal government holds minority ownership.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“I’m proud to advance this commonsense legislation that respects private mineral owners and supports American energy production. Right now, energy projects can be forced to go through both state and federal permitting processes even when the federal government owns less than half of the subsurface estate. The BLM Mineral Spacing Act would eliminate this duplicative process and allow these projects to move forward under applicable state and private requirements, while still protecting the federal government’s mineral interests and royalties.”

Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) issued the following statement:

“Duplicative federal permitting requirements delay American energy production without improving oversight. H.R. 1555 allows operators with state-approved permits to move forward when the surface is nonfederal and less than half of the subsurface mineral estate is federally owned, establishing a more predictable process. I commend Rep. Bice for advancing a practical solution that respects state regulators, maintains federal accountability and supports President Trump’s commitment to American energy dominance.”

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-companion-legislation-supporting-miami-tribe-oklahoma-passes-us-house,Cole Companion Legislation Supporting the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma Passes the U.S. House of Representatives and Heads to the White House,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after S. 550, the Senate companion legislation to his bill, H.R. 2827, passed the United States House of Representatives and now heads to the President’s desk for final signature. This legislation, originally introduced by then-Senator Markwayne Mullin, passed the Senate at the end of 2025.

“Today was a testament of Congress upholding its trust and treaty responsibility,” said Congressman Cole. “This straightforward, bipartisan piece of legislation will not only provide finality for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, but also certainty for the landowners and farmers in Illinois who have been living on this land for generations. After years of advocacy, the Miami Tribe will finally be able to have their rightful day in court and present their case for the land that was illegally sold by the United States. I’d like to thank the House Natural Resources Committee leadership for bringing this important piece of legislation to the Floor, Congresswoman McCollum for her collaboration on this bill, and Secretary Mullin for his work on this legislation during his time in the Senate. As a tribal member myself, I could not be more honored to play a small role in this victory for the Miami Tribe and their citizens.”

Chief Lankford of the Miami Tribe said, “The Miami Nation – past, present, and future – thank Chairman Cole and Secretary Mullin for making this bill a reality. They are warriors for Indian Country and all people who seek justice. Representative McCollum, Senator Durbin, and Representative Bost also deserve high praise for all their support. We are humbled by all their work for our members and for our ancestors who negotiated these rights during a time of unbelievable pressure and change. Chairman Cole, Secretary Mullin, and our allies did not forget their sacrifice and today Congress is finally vindicating their visionary foresight in protecting the tribes’ lands.”

Background:

In 1805, the Miami Tribe, Eel River Band, and Wea signed the Treaty of Grouseland, which under Article Four reserved all lands within the Wabash River watershed and land located west of the Wabash River, which is in present-day Illinois. From 1805 to 1840, the United States transferred 2.6 million acres of this land to non-native settlers without having acquired title from the tribes. As a result, title to that land is still held by the Miami Tribe’s superior claim to title and the tribe never consented to that land being purchased.

S. 550, the companion bill to H.R. 2827, will simply allow the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma to have their rightful day in court and extinguish all claims to this land in Illinois. It will remedy the mistake made by the federal government nearly two centuries ago by resolving the land claim and providing finality and certainty to both the Tribe and the landowners in Illinois.

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-leads-oklahoma-delegation-in-push-for-federal-disaster-assistance-following-july-4-storms/,Lankford Leads Oklahoma Delegation in Push for Federal Disaster Assistance Following July 4 Storms,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) led the Oklahoma congressional delegation in urging President Trump to approve Governor Kevin Stitt’s request for a major disaster declaration to help Oklahoma communities recover from severe storms, high winds, flooding, and widespread power outages that struck the state on July 4.

The delegation requested Public Assistance for Cleveland, Nowata, Osage, and Washington Counties, as well as Hazard Mitigation Grant Program assistance statewide.

Read the full letter HERE and below.

Mr. President,

We write in support of the formal request from the State of Oklahoma, through the office of Governor Kevin Stitt, that was submitted on September 2, 2026, for a major disaster declaration, including Public Assistance for Cleveland, Nowata, Osage, and Washington Counties to recover from severe storms, high winds, flooding, and widespread power outages that occurred on the evening of Saturday, July 4, as well as Hazard Mitigation Grant Program assistance statewide. An Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency in these counties (E.O. 2026-23) was issued on July 5, 2026.

Severe storms, high winds, and flooding impacted the State of Oklahoma on the evening of Saturday, July 4 and caused damage to public property within the State. As usual, Oklahomans demonstrated the Oklahoma Standard when they stepped up to help their families and neighbors as they began the process of cleaning up the debris and repairing damage to schools, businesses, and neighborhoods.

State and local officials have informed us that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response and recovery is beyond the combined capability of the state and local governments, and that federal assistance is necessary to lessen the threat of disaster, protect property, and to ensure the safety of these communities.

As such, we respectfully urge you to approve the Governor’s request for the counties listed above and to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program assistance statewide. We stand ready to provide any assistance needed to ensure the prompt evaluation of this request. Please reach out to our offices with any questions on this matter.

Sincerely,

/x/

Background

Lankford has consistently worked to ensure Oklahoma communities have access to federal resources following severe weather and natural disasters.

In July, Lankford announced more than $12.3 million in FEMA Public Assistance grants to help Oklahoma communities repair electrical infrastructure, roads, and public buildings damaged by severe storms, tornadoes, and winter weather.

In June, Lankford highlighted more than $2.8 million in FEMA assistance for recovery from severe storms, tornadoes, flooding, and wildfires after working with FEMA leadership to finalize the grants.

Earlier this year, Lankford helped secure more than $20 million in FEMA funding for flood mitigation in Tulsa County and severe-weather recovery efforts in Shawnee, Sulphur, and other Oklahoma communities.

Lankford has also repeatedly worked with the Oklahoma congressional delegation to support major disaster declarations following severe weather, including leading the delegation’s request for federal assistance after the April 2024 tornado outbreak.

Lankford has introduced bipartisan legislation to improve federal disaster response and recovery, including the POWER Act, which would allow FEMA funding to be used to strengthen electrical infrastructure while it is rebuilt following a disaster.

###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-celebrates-states-largest-federal-transportation-grant-with-roosevelt-bridge-groundbreaking/,Lankford Celebrates State’s Largest Federal Transportation Grant with Roosevelt Bridge Groundbreaking,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster, Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation and Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation Tim Gatz, and state and local leaders in Marshall County on Thursday to celebrate the groundbreaking of the $409 million Roosevelt Bridge Project replacing the more than 80-year-old section of US-70 spanning Lake Texoma between Durant and Kingston.

“After years of working with the Department of Transportation to obtain federal funding, I’m grateful to have secured the largest transportation grant in Oklahoma history for this project,” said Lankford. “This is a historic investment in Southern Oklahoma that will ensure safer, more reliable travel for school buses, truck drivers, families, and tourists that cross Lake Texoma every day.”

The Roosevelt Memorial Bridge over Lake Texoma connects Southern Oklahoma from east to west. Originally built in 1942 under the Roosevelt Administration, the bridge has become functionally obsolete and is at risk of deteriorating and becoming structurally deficient. The bridge carries 12,000 vehicles per day, and while either side is a four-lane highway, the bridge remains two lanes with no shoulders, which leads to bottlenecks and higher collision rates.

“The groundbreaking of the US-70 Roosevelt Bridge replacement project marks a monumental milestone for southeastern Oklahoma and our neighbors in Texas and Arkansas whose lives and economies rely upon this critical corridor,” said Tim Gatz, Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation and Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. “A project of this magnitude would never be possible without the support of our federal delegation, including Senator Lankford, and the $124 million Federal Bridge Investment Program grant that covers roughly 30 percent of this project’s cost. We are also grateful to Governor Stitt, our legislature and many state partners who are helping bring this important project to life.”

In July 2024, Lankford announced the Federal Highway Administration had awarded ODOT $123.85 million in federal funding for the Roosevelt Bridge project, the largest federal transportation grant in Oklahoma history. This is one of 19 projects nationwide awarded a Bridge Investment Program – Large Bridge Project grant. The existing bridge will stay open for travelers during construction, with the new bridge expected to open in Fall of 2029.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-marks-25th-anniversary-of-september-11th-attacks/,Lankford Marks 25th Anniversary of September 11th Attacks,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) released the following statement marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks:

“Twenty-five years later, we honor the lives lost and pray for the families that continue grieving,” said Lankford. “Today and every day we thank the first responders and those in uniform who run towards danger in order to protect and serve others. We will never forget.”

###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/armstrong-peters-congress-already-has-the-common-ground-to-pass-permitting-reform/,"Armstrong, Peters: Congress Already Has the Common Ground to Pass Permitting Reform",2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

September 8, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

Armstrong, Peters: Congress Already Has the Common Ground to Pass Permitting Reform

REPUBLICAN SENATOR AND DEMOCRATIC CONGRESSMAN SAY CONGRESS ALREADY AGREES ON ENOUGH TO ACT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) and Representative Scott Peters (D-CA) are calling on Congress to seize a rare window of bipartisan agreement and pass meaningful permitting reform.

In a new joint op-ed published in American Affairs, Armstrong and Peters argue that while they represent different parties, chambers, and regions of the country, they agree on a fundamental challenge facing the United States: America has lost its ability to build.

Importantly, Armstrong and Peters argue that Congress already has substantial bipartisan agreement on how to begin fixing it. Meaningful reform should establish clear and enforceable timelines, modernize environmental review, provide certainty against endless litigation, and make it easier to build the linear infrastructure America needs—without picking political favorites between pipelines and transmission.

Their message comes as Congress faces a choice: allow longstanding disagreements over energy and environmental policy to derail another attempt at reform, or act on the significant bipartisan consensus that already exists around fixing the permitting process itself. As Armstrong and Peters write, the principles at the heart of reform—rigorous review, clear rules, accountability, reasonable deadlines, and certainty that final decisions remain final—are not partisan.

“We have a rare bipartisan window of alignment to solve this. We already agree on enough to get started. If Congress fails to act, we will fail to deliver for the American people. The market is begging to build. It is time for Congress to stop standing in our own way and get America building again.”

Read the full op-ed here in American Affairs, and see selected excerpts here:

“America has lost its ability to build.”

“Whether we are trying to produce more American energy, construct transmission lines, power the artificial intelligence revolution, strengthen manufacturing, develop critical minerals, or build affordable housing, projects are being choked by a permitting system that too often rewards delay instead of results. No longer simply an environmental or energy issue, it is an affordability problem, an economic competitiveness problem, and increasingly a national security problem.”

“Congress itself acknowledges this dysfunction. When lawmakers decide something urgently needs to be built—from affordable housing to critical infrastructure—we waive or streamline NEPA requirements without making fundamental reforms to the law. That is an admission that the underlying process needs modernization. Congress should fix the system rather than constantly invent exceptions to it.”

“We also agree that permitting reform cannot devolve into a partisan slugging match over ‘transmission vs. pipelines.’ We want a win for all linear infrastructure.”

“The principles of reform are not partisan: rigorous review, clear rules and pathways to accountability, reasonable deadlines, and confidence that final decisions will remain final without burdensome litigation.”

“We have a rare bipartisan window of alignment to solve this. We already agree on enough to get started. If Congress fails to act, we will fail to deliver for the American people. The market is begging to build. It is time for Congress to stop standing in our own way and get America building again.”",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-and-womack-introduce-no-preference-act,Bice and Womack Introduce the No Preference Act,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05) introduced the No Preference Act with Congressman Steve Womack (AR-03) serving as co-lead. This legislation would prevent the Executive Branch from giving preference to federal contractors based solely on whether their workers are part of a collective bargaining agreement.

“Every qualified contractor deserves a fair opportunity to compete for federal projects,”said Congresswoman Bice.“The government should not favor one individual over another simply because their workers are part of a union. This legislation ensures that right to work states, like Oklahoma, have an equal footing when competing for contracts.”

“When our federal government selects a contractor, the decision should be based on merit and the most efficient use of resources entrusted by the American taxpayer,”said Congressman Womack. “The playing field shouldn’t be skewed toward contractors who choose to use union labor. I am proud to join Congresswoman Bice's efforts to ensure all businesses and workers have the same opportunities to compete for federal work regardless of labor agreement.”

“ABC applauds Rep. Bice for introducing legislation that puts taxpayers first,”said Kristen Swearingen, ABC vice president of government affairs. “Federal contracts should be awarded based on performance and value, not because the government favors one type of labor agreement over another. This bill allows contractors to decide for themselves whether to sign a union agreement and gives every qualified contractor and skilled worker a fair chance to compete. More competition means more opportunities for workers and better value for taxpayers.”

Executive Director at the Association of Oklahoma General Contractors said“We believe that fair open competition is always the best path forward. The only preference should be for qualified contractors to bid aggressively!""

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-resolution-designating-september-as-national-child-awareness-month-passes-senate/,Lankford Resolution Designating September as National Child Awareness Month Passes Senate,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — A Senate resolution introduced by US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), designating September as National Child Awareness Month (NCAM), recently passed the Senate unanimously. The resolution promotes awareness of charities that benefit children and youth-serving organizations across the country.

“Every child has tremendous worth and potential, and for nearly two decades, the Senate has supported the charities, nonprofits, and outreach organizations that make their futures even brighter,” said Lankford. “The volunteers and staff who invest in America’s youth demonstrate the Oklahoma Standard. This month – and every month – we recognize the work they do to strengthen our families and empower the next generation of leaders.”

“Helping children succeed is one of the best investments that we can make for the future of our country,” said Hassan. “This month is an opportunity to recognize the organizations and volunteers who work every day to support children and families in New Hampshire and across the country. Their tireless work helps ensure that every child has the chance to dream big and reach their full potential.”

You can download the full text of the resolution HERE.

###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-introduces-resolution-congratulating-ou-baseball-team-winning-2026-mens,Cole Introduces Resolution Congratulating the OU Baseball Team for Winning the 2026 Men's College World Series,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) introduced H. Res. 1500, which congratulates the University of Oklahoma men’s baseball team on their College World Series National Championship. After introducing the resolution, Congressman Cole and Coach Skip Johnson released the following statements:

“As my fellow Oklahomans know, Coach Skip Johnson and the OU men’s baseball team pulled off one of the most historic triumphs in NCAA baseball history this past season when they beat the University of North Carolina in the College World Series. After making it through the Atlanta Regional, our unranked Sooners ended up outscoring their remaining opponents 90 to 28 – and as a diehard OU fan, I am so proud. This is why I introduced House Resolution 1500, congratulating the team and recognizing the hard work that led to the Sooners victory,” said Congressman Cole. “As always, Boomer!”

“We are appreciative of Chairman Cole and the House of Representatives, as well as the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, for their unwavering support of our program. We felt the whole state behind us on our run to Omaha and the national championship. Just like the state of Oklahoma, our program is built on the values of hard work and commitment to something bigger than yourself. Our players bought in on the greater goal and the passion of our fan base was on display for the entire nation,” said Coach Skip Johnson.

###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-continuing-resolution-fund-government,Bice Supports Continuing Resolution to Fund the Government,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Bice voted in support of a continuing resolution to fund the government through December 11, 2026. Importantly, this funding maintains Republican spending levels and includes priorities of the Trump Administration. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills through regular order out of committee. In July, the House passed a continuing resolution to fully fund the government. The Senate recently amended the legislation forcing the House to pass it again before it can be signed into law by President Trump.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“I am incredibly proud of the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills out of our committee. However, due to delays and disruption by Senate Democrats, a continuing resolution was needed to avoid another partisan, Democrat-driven government wide shutdown. This legislation is straightforward, continues responsible spending, and contains no poison pills, ensuring we put the American people ahead of politics.”",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-avert-partisan-october-shutdown,Cole Votes to Avert a Partisan October Shutdown,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Senate Amendments to H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027:

“Today’s vote is the culmination of House Republicans moving proactively, decisively, and strategically earlier this summer. The action we took paved the way for the Senate to promptly engage in the process, and I am proud to say we are now sending this funding extension to President Trump without waiting for the clock to run out,” said Congressman Cole.

“Responsible governance means putting the well-being and stability of the nation first, and this legislation does just that. It protects our national security, preserves critical services, and denies partisan shutdown agitators the leverage they have repeatedly sought. The bill is simple by design – no poison polls, no divisive wish lists, and no political gimmicks. Just a clean, straightforward measure that keeps the government working, provides more time to address full-year bills, and trades the familiar cycle of Senate Democrat brinkmanship for something far more useful: certainty,” said Congressman Cole.

###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/icymi-sen-armstrong-outlines-urgency-of-permitting-reform-to-boost-energy-grid-and-national-security-in-535-news-editorial/,ICYMI: Sen. Armstrong Outlines Urgency of Permitting Reform to Boost Energy Grid and National Security in 535 News Editorial,2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 31, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

ICYMI: Sen. Armstrong Outlines Urgency of Permitting Reform to Boost Energy Grid and National Security in 535 News Editorial

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) published an op-ed today in 535 News detailing how bureaucratic red tape and federal permitting paralysis threaten American energy reliability, economic competitiveness, and national defense readiness.

In the piece, Senator Armstrong draws on his decades of experience as an energy industry executive to outline how excessive delays, endless litigation, and interconnection backlogs leave key industries—from steel and aluminum manufacturing to AI power infrastructure—vulnerable to foreign competitors like China.

Read the full piece here and below.

AMERICA BUILT THE 20TH CENTURY. CAN WE BUILD THE 21ST?

BY: SENATOR ALAN ARMSTRONG (R-OK)

America’s 21st-century ambitions—from leading the artificial intelligence boom to revitalizing domestic manufacturing—rest on an aging physical foundation designed for the 20th century. The United States remains a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, but we lose that edge if we cannot build the infrastructure required to support these advances.

America has a proud history as a nation of builders. In the post-World War II era, Americans constructed mega-bridges and entire expressway systems in mere years. But in the decades since, the federal permitting system has become so cumbersome that it is often easier to block a project than to build one. A system well intentioned to protect the environment and the public interest has, paradoxically, become a primary obstacle to the progress our nation urgently needs and the environmental benefits that progress enables.

The result is permitting paralysis—regulatory gridlock that affects nearly every sector of the economy and threatens economic competitiveness and national security.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the U.S. electrical grid, which is choked by an interconnection backlog that prevents the deployment of new energy. Utilities are quoting 8 to 15 years to complete studies for a single interconnection request. The nation needs over 160 gigawatts of new power in the next four years, yet permitting and building required transmission lines can take 7 to 19 years. These delays not only hinder our ability to meet growing power demand but also restrain the deployment of more efficient, more sustainable energy technologies. Under the current system, large power consumers like major industrial players and data center developers are increasingly bypassing the public grid entirely, building private “behind-the-meter” energy systems because public infrastructure cannot keep pace.

These bottlenecks have severe consequences for consumers and manufacturers alike, particularly the American steel industry, which depends on stable, affordable power. When power costs recently surged 76 percent year over year in PJM, the nation’s largest grid, steel manufacturers absorbed millions of dollars in additional expenses simply to maintain production. When we fail to build the infrastructure required to power these facilities, we increase our reliance on higher- emitting foreign sources and jeopardize the workers and factories producing steel for our bridges, naval vessels, and industrial base.

The national-security stakes become even clearer with aluminum. The United States imports roughly 85 percent of its aluminum and is entirely dependent on foreign sources for the high-purity aluminum used in F-35 fighter jets and missiles. A multi-billion-dollar smelter project in Oklahoma stands ready to double domestic production, but its success depends on timely approvals for affordable power and river logistics. When we cannot build the infrastructure needed to supply our defense industrial base, permitting paralysis becomes a strategic vulnerability.

The constraints begin even further upstream, with raw materials themselves. Permitting and building a new mine in the United States can take nearly 30 years. Minnesota’s NewRange copper-nickel mine has spent decades and hundreds of millions of dollars navigating reviews without breaking ground. In Alaska’s Ambler region, access to mineral development has been allowed in federal law for decades, yet projects remain trapped in regulatory uncertainty. We possess extraordinary resources and world class standards but increasingly struggle to couple those assets into productive capacity.

When I was a CEO in the energy industry, I saw firsthand how our broken permitting system chills project investment. Corporate boards hesitate to commit capital when permits can be delayed, litigated, or revoked after issuance, and they require higher returns to justify the risk. Now, as a U.S. Senator, I realize how widespread this problem is and the geopolitical harm it does to the country.

While America spends years reviewing and litigating whether projects can proceed, our global competitors are building industrial capacity at a speed we struggle to match. Twenty years ago, U.S. and Chinese installed electrical capacity were roughly at parity. Today, China’s capacity has nearly tripled while ours has grown by less than 20 percent. China is building the power plants, transmission networks, mines, factories, and supply chains that will underpin the 21st-century economy while America too often waits for permission.

Thankfully, we are not China. We are a nation of the people. We are a nation of innovators who are proud to take precautions to protect and restore the beautiful environment of this country. We used to be a nation of builders. However, our permitting processes have become our foes greatest strength, and the goal of our honest intentions have been lost in the morass of litigation and endless do-loops.

That widening gap is about more than economic growth. America cannot deter its adversaries with a hollowed-out industrial base or an energy system incapable of expanding at the speed modern security challenges demand. Military strength depends on domestic production, resilient supply chains, and the ability to build quickly. When delays and litigation stretch into years or decades, we are not simply slowing development; we are weakening the foundation of American readiness.

We do not want to look back in a decade and wonder how a country blessed with extraordinary resources and people allowed a bureaucracy of its own making to surrender its global competitive edge. America can lead the 21st-century economy. But first, America needs to allow itself to build again.

Alan Armstrong, a Republican, is a U.S. senator from Oklahoma. He served as CEO and executive board chairman of Williams from 2011 to 2026.",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z
https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/afp-oklahoma-praises-sen-armstrongs-permitting-reform-bill-in-thetulsa-world/,AFP-Oklahoma Praises Sen. Armstrong’s Permitting Reform Bill in theTulsa World,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 25, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

AFP-Oklahoma Praises Sen. Armstrong’s Permitting Reform Bill in theTulsa World

JOHN TIDWELL STRESSES THE URGENCY TO PASS ARMSTRONG’S AEMI ACT TO MAINTAIN OKLAHOMA’S STATUS AS A NATIONAL ENERGY LEADER

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a recent opinion column published by the Tulsa World, John Tidwell, Oklahoma State Director of Americans for Prosperity, highlighted Senator Alan Armstrong’s (R-OK) landmark legislation, S. 4944, the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure (AEMI) Act, as a critical step toward unlocking domestic energy growth and fixing the nation’s broken permitting system.

In the op-ed, Tidwell outlines how excessive federal red tape, administrative delays, and endless litigation threaten Oklahoma’s historic role as a national energy leader. Tidwell emphasizes that reforming the current regulatory process is necessary to lower energy costs, expand the electric grid, and ensure long-term energy independence.

Read the full op-ed here. Key excerpts:

ON THE NEED FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION

“Sen. Alan Armstrong has introduced the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act, which would provide the predictability that Oklahoma needs to lead the way in building the next generation of energy.”

ON PERMITTING OBSTACLES

“It takes an average of 4 ½ years to obtain a permit to build energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, more than 4,000 miles of pipeline projects remain tied up in legal battles and permitting delays.”

ON RISING POWER DEMANDS

“Demand for reliable electricity also is rising faster than it has in decades. This is an opportunity for energy-producing states like Oklahoma to help meet that need. Our ability to build and transmit energy will determine whether our country is prepared to meet the demands of an increasingly strained energy grid. Energy demand is expected to grow 52% by 2034, with data centers and manufacturing making up a large portion of this demand.”

ON MODERNIZING FEDERAL REVIEWS

“Armstrong’s bill would streamline overlapping federal reviews while ensuring environmental laws remain focused on evaluating legitimate environmental impacts rather than creating years of procedural delay.”

The American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act targets these exact bottlenecks by modernizing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) scope, strengthening the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) role over interstate natural gas projects, amending Clean Water Act Section 401 review processes, and establishing clear judicial review standards.

BACKGROUND

In June, Armstrong hosted an official event on Capitol Hill, Getting America Building Again: Permitting Reform and America’s Competitive Future, which brought together more than 150 business leaders and policy experts to advance a shared blueprint for comprehensive permitting reform and discuss the urgent need to modernize America’s permitting laws.",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-common-cents-act-passes-senate-by-unanimous-consent/,ICYMI: Common Cents Act Passes Senate by Unanimous Consent,2026-08-18,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) successfully advanced the bipartisan Common Cents Act through the Senate by unanimous consent before the Senate adjourned. The legislation would end production of the penny and save taxpayers an estimated $56 million annually.

The effort to end penny production has gained momentum under President Trump. On February 9, 2025, President Trump called for an end to the minting of pennies. On February 18, 2025, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that the US Mint would soon stop producing the penny. The Common Cents Act brings common sense to America’s coinage system by ending production of a coin that costs nearly four cents to produce while providing businesses with clear rules for cash transactions. The House passed the legislation by voice vote on July 14.

“It costs nearly four cents to make a penny that is worth one cent. That is not a good use of taxpayer dollars. The Common Cents Act is a bipartisan, commonsense solution that will save taxpayers millions of dollars while ensuring businesses have clear rules for cash transactions. I’m glad the Senate unanimously passed this legislation and took another step toward bringing our nation’s coinage system into the 21st century,” said Lankford.

Background

The Common Cents Act does the following:

Ends production of the penny.

Provides legal certainty for businesses on rounding practices.

Permits a lower-cost composition for the nickel that reduces costs while maintaining compatibility with existing machines.

Requires advance Congressional notification of the discontinuation of future coinage.

The National Association of Convenience Stores, National Grocers Association, National Restaurant Association, the United Steelworkers Union (USW), International Franchise Association, National Retail Federation, American Bankers Association, Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), and others have all endorsed the legislation.

You can view the full bill text HERE and learn more about the law passed HERE.

###",1,2026-08-19T05:29:02Z,2026-08-19T05:30:24Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-bipartisan-task-force-for-combating-antisemitism-statement-on-2025-fbi-hate-crimes-report/,Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Statement on 2025 FBI Hate Crimes Report,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Today, US James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, released the following statement in response to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) 2025 Hate Crimes Report. The FBI data shows that more than 62% of religiously-motivated hate crimes in 2025 targeted Jewish Americans – more than any other religious group – and 2025 was the third-highest year of anti-Jewish hate crimes on record.

“Year after year, we’ve seen alarming rates of antisemitic harassment and violence in this country. While the latest FBI Hate Crimes report shows a slight decrease in 2025 when compared to the previous year, anti-Jewish hate crimes continue to be higher than they were before the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel,” said Senators Lankford and Rosen. “This report shows the dark reality for Jewish Americans: antisemitic attacks make up more than 62 percent of religiously-motivated hate crimes in the United States, more than double all other kinds of religiously-motivated hate crimes combined. We’re faced with nothing less than a crisis, and we need collective action. Our bipartisan Jewish American Security Act will take important steps to protect Jewish Americans where they are targeted – on campus, in their communities, and online. We will continue working to pass this bill and take action at the federal level to protect Jewish Americans.”

As co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force on Combating Antisemitism, Senators Lankford and Rosen have been leading the fight against rising antisemitism. The task force has grown to include more than half of the Senate – with members in equal numbers from both parties – and successfully pushed for the development of the first-ever national strategy to combat antisemitism. Earlier this year, Senators Lankford and Rosen introduced the Jewish American Security Act, landmark bipartisan legislation to protect Jewish Americans on college campuses, at Jewish communal institutions, and online.

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/armstrong-joins-epsas-energy-solutions-podcast-to-discuss-permitting-reform-agenda/,Armstrong Joins EPSA’s Energy Solutions Podcast to Discuss Permitting Reform Agenda,2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,Alan Armstrong,A000383,www.armstrong.senate.gov,armstrong,https://www.armstrong.senate.gov/news/media-center/,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 13, 2026

CONTACT:

Chrissy Harbin, Miranda Dabney

Armstrong Joins EPSA’s Energy Solutions Podcast to Discuss Permitting Reform Agenda

“IT’S NEVER BEEN SO EASY TO BLOCK PROJECTS VERSUS BUILD PROJECTS”: ARMSTRONG CALLS FOR STREAMLINED FEDERAL REVIEWS AND REGULATORY CERTAINTY TO MEET RISING ENERGY DEMAND

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator Alan Armstrong (R-OK) joined the Energy Solutions podcast, hosted by Todd Snitchler, President and CEO of the Electric Power Supply Association (EPSA), for an in-depth conversation on energy infrastructure, the lessons of the shale gas revolution, and the critical need for bipartisan permitting reform.

Listen to the full podcast here.

During the interview, Sen. Armstrong drew on his nearly four decades of energy industry experience to discuss how regulatory delays and fragmented agency reviews hinder critical infrastructure projects. Key highlights from his comments:",1,2026-09-24T10:30:22Z,2026-09-24T10:31:42Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-colleagues-resolution-recognizing-national-community-health-center-week-passes-senate/,"Lankford, Colleagues’ Resolution Recognizing National Community Health Center Week Passes Senate",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — A Senate resolution introduced by US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), a member of the Senate Finance Committee and John Cornyn (R-TX), along with Senators John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Jim Justice (R-WV), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), designating August 2-8, 2026, as National Community Health Center Week, recently passed the Senate unanimously.

You can read the full resolution text below or HERE.

“Whereas, for over 60 years, community health centers have provided access to high-quality, affordable, comprehensive, preventive care for individuals in the United States, having a positive impact on the health system of the United States;

Whereas, as the largest primary care network in the United States, over 1,500 community health centers provide high quality care for up to 52,000,000 individuals in 17,000 communities, such that 1 in 7 individuals across the United States and 1 in 3 in rural areas rely on community health centers;

Whereas community health centers are an important element of the health system of the United States, serving rural, suburban, island, frontier, and urban communities, often as the only accessible and dependable source of primary care;

Whereas community health centers are responding to the growing burden of chronic disease by expanding access to nutrition services and lifestyle counseling, reducing expensive emergency room visits and hospital admissions, and keeping the people of the United States healthy;

Whereas community health centers integrate a wide range of services into primary care, such as mental health, dental, vision, hearing, and pharmacy services, creating a one-stop shop for all health-related needs;

Whereas community health centers are uniquely governed by patient-majority boards, ensuring communities are fully engaged in the strategy of community health centers for improving care access and quality;

Whereas community health centers are locally operated nonprofit organizations that empower local economies by generating nearly $262,000,000,000 in economic activity across the United States;

Whereas community health centers nationally support 809,000 jobs, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, counselors, dentists, pharmacists, and community health workers on multidisciplinary teams;

Whereas the community health center model of care is effective at overcoming barriers to access, improving health outcomes, and saving taxpayer dollars;

Whereas, in 2025, community health centers provided cancer screening to nearly 11,000,000 patients and helped more than 4,000,000 patients control their hypertension and nearly 2,500,000 patients control their diabetes;

Whereas community health centers are on the front lines of addressing opioid overdoses, responding to health care needs arising from natural disasters, expanding access to care for our veterans, and operating nearly 4,600 school-based sites and over 1,300 mobile units to reach people living in rural and remote areas; and

Whereas National Community Health Center Week offers the opportunity to recognize the contributions of every community health center: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate—

honors the dedicated staff, board members, patients, and all those responsible for the continued success of community health centers since the first centers opened their doors 6 decades ago;

celebrates the legacy of community health centers and their vital role in shaping the past, present, and future of the health system of the United States;

supports the designation of the first week of August 2026, as “National Community Health Center Week”; and

encourages all people of the United States to participate in National Community Health Center Week by visiting their local community health center and celebrating the important partnership between community health centers and the communities they serve.”

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-welcomes-hud-secretary-scott-turner-oklahomas-fifth-district,Bice Welcomes HUD Secretary Scott Turner to Oklahoma's Fifth District,2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Friday, Congresswoman Bice welcomed HUD Secretary Scott Turner to Oklahoma City and Pivot’s Tiny Home community, which provides stable housing and supportive services for youth aged 16-24. Pivot is a nonprofit in Oklahoma City that offers programs such as counseling, educational and vocational training, housing, and intervention and diversion services for youth aged 12-24, who are homeless or are otherwise at-risk. The pair also visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum to pay tribute to the federal employees who lost their lives in the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

“Secretary Turner’s visit to Pivot allowed him to witness the incredible work being done in our community to provide support services for foster youth. First Lady Melania Trump has made foster care a pivotal part of her platform, and organizations like Pivot are vital to that mission,”said Congresswoman Bice. “I also appreciate his willingness to pay tribute to the individuals who lost their lives in the Oklahoma City Bombing. If you want to understand Oklahoma City, it is essential to visit this museum, and witness how the city came together in its aftermath to create the Oklahoma Standard. I want to thank the Secretary for visiting my district, and I appreciate the Trump Administration’s continued support for Oklahoma.”

“It was a privilege to see firsthand the extraordinary work Pivot is doing to help vulnerable youth. Through their tiny homes village and wrap around services, they are helping Oklahoma’s youth move from homelessness to self-sufficiency,” said HUD Secretary Turner. ""I am grateful to Congresswoman Bice for her steadfast commitment to empowering local organizations that know their communities best and are delivering real results.”

Secretary Turner continued, “While in Oklahoma City, it was a profound honor to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial to pay tribute to the 35 HUD employees who lost their lives in the bombing. America is a resilient nation, and we will never forget the precious people who perished on that day. I am proud to support the HUD family in Oklahoma and all across our Nation.

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-bill-to-strengthen-and-protect-the-ministry-of-military-chaplains/,Lankford Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Strengthen and Protect the Ministry of Military Chaplains,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today introduced the Military Chaplains Modernization Act of 2026 (MCMA) to codify the purpose, role, duties, and professional qualifications of military chaplains and to protect chaplains from being forced to violate their sincerely held religious beliefs.

“For our country’s 250-year history, military chaplains have walked alongside our service members through the hardest moments of their lives, offering prayer, counsel, and hope in isolated posts and combat zones alike,” said Lankford. “Chaplains serve because they are called to it. Congress has a responsibility to make sure they can carry out that calling faithfully, without being forced to violate the tenets of their faith and without fear of retaliation for holding to what they believe. This bill honors the men and women who minister to our heroes who defend our nation.”

“Military chaplains shouldn’t have to check their faith at the door when they put on the uniform,” said Cramer. “They play a vital role in supporting the moral and spiritual well-being of our servicemembers, and their ministry and the men and women they serve are strengthened because of their faith. This legislation protects their ability to minister according to their beliefs and ensures those freedoms are always preserved.”

“Military chaplains provide a vital service to the patriots who sacrifice for our country every day. By standardizing a chaplain’s role, this commonsense legislation clarifies their duties and protects chaplains from unfair censorship. Like all Americans, our men and women in uniform have the God-given right to observe their religious beliefs, especially as they put their own lives on the line to defend our nation. Our legislation reinforces those rights,” said Grassley.

“Military chaplains serve a unique and important role in our armed forces, providing spiritual guidance to our men and women in uniform. That is why it is imperative that their deeply held religious beliefs must be protected throughout their time in the military. I’m proud to support this legislation and the faith leaders who serve in our Armed Forces,”said Britt.

Background

Joining Lankford in cosponsoring the legislation are Senators Mike Rounds (R-SD), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Katie Britt (R-AL). The bill has been included in the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and is being led on the House side by Rep. Keith Self (R-TX-03).

The bill is also supported by the Armed Forces Chaplains Board, which provides advice and recommendations to Department of War (DOW) officials on matters of religious exercise.

Lankford has a long record of protecting religious liberty in the military. In the Fiscal Year 2018 NDAA, Lankford secured language requiring every branch of the military to implement training for military leaders and service members on federal laws, DOW instructions, and regulations regarding religious liberty and accommodation. That training language was implemented in the Fiscal Year 2021 NDAA. The MCMA builds on that foundation by codifying protections for the chaplains who minister to service members every day.

The Military Chaplains Modernization Act:

Codifies the purpose, role, duties, and professional qualifications of chaplains across the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force.

Guarantees that chaplains may conduct worship, provide counseling, teach, deliver sermons, minister, and offer prayer in accordance with their sincerely held religious beliefs and the tenets of their religious-endorsing organization, free from censorship, undue restriction, or fear of retribution.

Prohibits any member of the Armed Forces from requiring or assigning a chaplain to perform any rite, ritual, ceremony, sermon, speech, task, or action contrary to the chaplain’s sincerely held religious beliefs.

Protects chaplains from retaliation or adverse personnel actions, including denial of promotion, letters of reprimand, and negative entries in the chaplain’s record, for refusing to violate their beliefs.

Establishes that violations are subject to prosecution under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Codifies the ranks and roles of the Chief of Chaplains and Deputy Chief of Chaplains as principal advisors to their respective service Secretaries and Chiefs of Staff.

You can download the full bill text HERE and learn more in the Washington Stand HERE.

###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-defends-age-verification-laws-to-protect-children-from-explicit-content/,Lankford Defends Age Verification Laws to Protect Children from Explicit Content,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Chair of the Senate Values Action Team, today sent a letter to Pornhub after the company’s July 28 letter urged state lawmakers to reject age verification laws that protect children from online explicit content.

You can read the full text of the letter HERE or below. Learn more in Fox News HERE.

Dear Mr. Friedman,

I write in response to the disgraceful letter Pornhub sent to state lawmakers on July 28th. The letter strongly urged against passage of age verification laws and further revealed the fact that Pornhub has no interest in protecting children.

Pornhub preys on children. It exposes them to horrific sexual content and does nothing to ensure that children are not sexually abused in the content it hosts. Pornhub’s letter suggests that tech companies should be responsible for protecting children from pornography. Lawmakers can and should hold tech companies accountable for the harm they pose to children. But that should not preclude state and federal lawmakers from holding platforms like Pornhub accountable for the harm it causes. Pornhub’s letter fails to say the quiet part out loud: Pornhub would lose customers if children were prohibited from viewing its content.

The American Psychological Association found that the average age of pornography exposure among boys was 13.37 years old with the youngest exposure at 5 years old. 43.5% of men reported that their first exposure was accidental and 17.2% of men reported that their first exposure was forced. Our children, especially young boys, deserve better than this. It should not be controversial that children deserve a childhood that is free from pornography.

Age verification laws are an important piece of making the internet safer for children. It is not the only solution to combat this problem, but it is an important start. Pornhub’s letter argues that age verification laws increase privacy risks for adults. But as you know, many state laws require platforms to delete personal information as soon as the age verification is complete. For example, Oklahoma law prohibits platforms from retaining any information after access is granted and imposes penalties on platforms who do not comply. The Age Verification Providers Association, which represents almost 30 organizations that provide age verification technology, have explained in detail the privacy protections that are built into these systems. These methods even complied with the EU’s stringent privacy requirements and are no more invasive than an in-person age check.

The Supreme Court affirmed in Free Speech Coalition vs. Paxton that these types of laws do not unreasonably burden adults and that the state has a legitimate interest in protecting children from these images. Pornhub’s letter complains that consumers do not want to go through age verification to access its content. But this is a small price to pay to protect children from harmful content.

My colleagues and I are working hard to address the harms to children online. We will not stop until we hold companies like Pornhub accountable. It is our duty to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

Parents today face an uphill battle when it comes to protecting their children online. Age verification is one simple step platforms can take to help preserve childhood innocence. This is especially true for platforms that host violent and perverse sexual content. Pornhub should be ashamed of its letter to state lawmakers and ashamed that they do nothing to protect children.

In God We Trust,

[X]

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-lee-introduce-the-ballots-by-election-day-act-to-restore-confidence-in-federal-elections/,"Lankford, Lee Introduce the Ballots by Election Day Act to Restore Confidence in Federal Elections",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced the Ballots by Election Day Act to require that all absentee and mail-in ballots in federal elections be received by the time polls close on Election Day.

In Watson v. Republican National Committee, the US Supreme Court upheld Mississippi’s law allowing mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted up to five days after and held that federal election-day statutes do not set a deadline for ballot receipt. The Ballots by Election Day Act legislatively closes that gap by setting a uniform federal deadline that requires ballots to be in the hands of election officials by the time polls close.

“Election Day should mean Election Day,” said Lankford. “Americans should not have to wait days or weeks while states like California keep counting ballots. The SAVE Act, this bill, and every other effort to secure our elections are about the same thing: making sure the American people can trust the results. If your ballot is going to count, it needs to be in the hands of election officials by the time the polls close.”

“Congress holds the constitutional authority to set the times, places, and manner of federal elections,” said Lee. “States counting late ballots are inviting fraud and sowing doubt in their own election results. Our bill will clarify protocol and restore trust by counting only ballots received before the polls close on election day.”

Background

Currently, states set their own deadlines for receipt of absentee and mail-in ballots in federal elections, with some states accepting ballots for days after Election Day so long as they are postmarked by Election Day. In Watson v. Republican National Committee, the Supreme Court held that federal law does not currently prohibit states from counting late-arriving ballots. The Ballots by Election Day Act would establish a uniform federal deadline for receipt of ballots in federal elections.

The Ballots by Election Day Act:

Amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require that absentee and mail-in ballots in federal elections be received by the appropriate election official no later than the time polls close on Election Day.

Prohibits states from counting absentee or mail-in ballots received after polls close on Election Day.

Preserves existing protections for absent uniformed services voters and overseas voters under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA).

Applies to federal elections held in 2027 and every year thereafter.

Lankford is an original cosponsor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act and the SAVE America Act and has voted for the SAVE Act six times on the Senate floor.

You can download the full bill text HERE and can learn more in Fox News HERE.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-shaheen-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-sanction-hezbollah-and-strengthen-lebanons-sovereignty/,"Lankford, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Sanction Hezbollah and Strengthen Lebanon’s Sovereignty",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Lebanon Sanctions, Stabilization, and Support Act, legislation to support Lebanon’s rule of law and democratic institutions through targeted sanctions, support for expanding the state’s civil authority, and security assistance to help the Lebanese state establish a monopoly of force over its territory, disarm Hezbollah, integrate communities into the state and free Lebanon from Iran’s malign influence.

“For decades, Iran has used Hezbollah to destabilize Lebanon, Israel, and threaten Americans who live in the region, but President Trump has created a real opening for change by bringing Israel and Lebanon to the table for the first direct talks in 30 years,” said Lankford. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce the Lebanon Sanctions, Stabilization, and Support Act with Senator Shaheen. Our bill imposes tough sanctions on the network financing Hezbollah and provides security assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces. A sovereign Lebanon protects Lebanese, Israeli, and American citizens living in the region, and puts real pressure on the terrorists.”

“For the first time in decades, Lebanon has a real chance to reclaim its sovereignty, disarm Hezbollah and break free from Iran’s malign influence, but success depends on sustained American support,” said Shaheen. “That’s why I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Lebanon Sanctions, Stabilization, and Support Act with Senator Lankford. It combines tough sanctions on Hezbollah’s enablers with targeted security and recovery assistance as well as congressional oversight. This legislation helps the Lebanese state extend its authority and build toward a peaceful future with its neighbors. A sovereign, stable Lebanon is firmly in America’s interests, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.”

Background

The Lebanon Sanctions, Stabilization, and Support Act seizes on the opportunity presented by direct negotiations and the trilateral framework between the United States, Israel, and Lebanon to ensure the disarmament of Hezbollah, integrate Lebanese communities previously reliant on Hezbollah into the Lebanese state, and build toward peaceful relations between Lebanon and Israel.

After years of Iranian proxy influence through Hezbollah, a banking sector crisis and challenges in government formation, Lebanon’s reform-minded government represents the best chance in decades to secure a safe and prosperous future. While the Lebanese Armed Forces, with US support to coordinate with the Israel Defense Forces, have made progress in disarming Hezbollah, Iran’s illicit financing and support of the group remains a significant impediment to completing that effort. Deepening this crisis, an estimated 1.2 million people have been displaced from southern Lebanon, risking another regional crisis.

The Lebanon Sanctions, Stabilization, and Support Act would:

Impose sanctions on foreign persons who support Iran’s financing of Hezbollah or obstruct Lebanon’s efforts to disarm the group and reform its financial sector. Sanctions include blocking of property, financial transaction prohibitions and visa ineligibility, with exceptions for humanitarian assistance.

Support stabilization by continuing humanitarian assistance and establishing an incentive fund for recovery of infrastructure and civil services run by the state, as opposed to Hezbollah.

Authorize $200 million annually in security assistance to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces and Internal Security Forces, conditioned on demonstrated progress against Hezbollah and with the opportunity to increase to $300 million annually if there is sufficient progress, including Foreign Military Financing and support to interdict weapons, Captagon and other illicit goods that fund the group.

Require recurring oversight, including reporting on Lebanon’s progress in disarming Hezbollah, a strategy for use of stabilization and security funds to provide Lebanese communities with an alternative to Hezbollah, efforts to secure funding from international donors, US efforts to coordinate between the Lebanese Armed Forces and Israel Defense Forces, banking-sector reform and progress toward peaceful relations between Lebanon and Israel.

You can download the full bill text HERE and a one pager of the bill can be found HERE. You can learn more in Bloomberg HERE.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-murray-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-funding-opportunities-for-tribal-nations-neighboring-military-installations/,"Lankford, Murray Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Funding Opportunities for Tribal Nations Neighboring Military Installations",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Patty Murray (D-WA) recently introduced new legislation to make Tribal governments eligible to apply for grants under the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP). Currently, Tribal governments are ineligible to apply for funding under DCIP’s grant authority, despite their role in supporting military installations and defense communities nationwide.

“Oklahoma is home to 39 Tribal Nations, and many of them live and work alongside the men and women who serve at our military installations. When a Tribe is doing work that benefits a military base or post, whether that is roads, utilities, or emergency response, the Tribe should have the same opportunity to apply for federal infrastructure grants as any other local government. This bill is a simple, common-sense fix that recognizes the role Tribes already play in our military readiness,” said Lankford.

“From Joint Base Lewis-McChord to Fairchild Air Force Base and everywhere in between Tribal Nations—like Yakama, Suquamish, and many more—do critical work to support military installations in Washington state and throughout the country,” said Murray. “That’s why this legislation is an important step to expand eligibility to DCIP grants. Tribes play a key role in our military readiness—they should be eligible for these funds just like any other community would be.”

Historically, DCIP provides grants to state and local governments for off-base infrastructure that supports military installations. These investments strengthen military readiness and benefit servicemembers and their families by improving transportation, schools, utilities, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure.

Tribal Nations that neighbor military bases are often already doing this work to support critical infrastructure projects that support military communities. This bill would amend the current language to include Tribal governments as eligible, “state and local,” entities to apply for DCIP grants. Reps. Emily Randall (D-WA-06) and Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) lead companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

The full bill text is available HERE.

###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-lee-introduce-bill-to-end-federal-funding-for-harmful-gender-transition-research-on-minors/,"Lankford, Lee Introduce Bill to End Federal Funding for Harmful Gender Transition Research on Minors",2026-08-04,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Mike Lee (R-UT) recently introduced the Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or publication promoting gender transitions for minors. The legislation will shield American children from permanent medical and psychological damage, in line with President Trump’s agenda to keep tax dollars from child mutilation.

“God creates every child male or female in His perfect image,” said Lankford. “For too long, taxpayers have been forced to fund sex-rejecting studies on kids. The result has been irreversible physical harm, mental health crises, and families torn apart. President Trump has led the effort to shut down these grants across the federal government, and Congress needs to make it permanent. This bill ensures that not one more taxpayer dollar funds research designed to harm children.”

“Why is the federal bureaucracy in the child mutilation business?” said Lee. “Americans don’t want to pay millions for these disturbing studies where hundreds of kids are experimented on with puberty-blocking drugs. President Trump rightly halted this attack on America’s kids. Our bill will codify his agenda to keep federal dollars out of gender transition research involving minors.”

Background

Joining Lankford and Lee in co-sponsoring the legislation are Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and it is endorsed by Students for Life Action and the American Principles Project.

The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act prohibits the use of federal funds for any research, observational study, or publication relating to gender transitions in individuals under the age of 18, which is conducted for the purpose of affirming a minor’s asserted identity or perception of his or her sex, if such is incongruent with the minor’s biological sex.

You can download the full bill text HERE.

###",1,2026-08-05T07:37:37Z,2026-08-05T07:38:44Z
https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1595,Congressman Brecheen Announces August Town Halls,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 3, 2026

Congressman Brecheen Announces August Town Halls

Oklahoma–On Monday, Congressman Brecheen announced his August town hall schedule which includes stops in 15 different cities.

Monday, August 24th, 2026

8:00am - 9:00am

Tishomingo Town Hall

Johnston County Library

116 W. Main St.

Tishomingo, OK 73460

10:00am - 11:00am

Durant Town Hall

Donald W. Reynolds Library

1515 W. Main St.

Durant, OK 74701

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Coalgate Town Hall

Coal County Public Library

115 W. Ohio Ave.

Coalgate, OK 74538

2:00pm - 3:00pm

McAlester Town Hall

Southeast Expo Center

Room 101

4500 W. US Highway 270

McAlester, OK 74501

4:00pm - 5:00pm

Holdenville Town Hall

Grace M. Pickens Public Library

209 E. 9th St.

Holdenville, OK 74848

6:00pm - 7:00pm

Okemah Town Hall

Okfuskee County Historical Society

407 W. Broadway Street

Okemah, OK 74859

Tuesday, August 25th, 2026

8:00am - 9:00am

Jay Town Hall

Delaware County Library

429 South 9th Street

Jay, OK 74346

10:00am - 11:00am

Chouteau Town Hall

Chouteau Town Hall

111 S. Lewis St.

Chouteau, OK 74337

2:00pm - 3:00pm

Claremore Town Hall

Claremore Conference Center

Will Rogers South Ballroom

1400 W. Country Club Rd.

Claremore, OK 74017

6:00pm - 7:00pm

Bartlesville Town Hall

Tri County Tech

Event Center

6101 Nowata Rd.

Bartlesville, OK 74006

Wednesday, August 26th, 2026

8:00am - 9:00am

Muskogee Town Hall

Martin Luther King Center

Conference Room

300 W. Martin Luther King St.

Muskogee, OK 74401

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Eufaula Town Hall

Eufaula Memorial Library

301 S. First St.

Eufaula, OK 74432

2:00pm - 3:00pm

Wilburton Town Hall

Latimer County Public Library

301 W. Ada Ave.

Wilburton, OK 74578

4:00pm - 5:00pm

Poteau Town Hall

Donald W. Reynolds Community Center

105 Reynolds Ave.

Poteau, OK 74953

7:00pm - 8:00pm

Broken Bow Town Hall

Broken Bow Library

404 N. Broadway St.

Broken Bow, OK 74728

for all press inquiries: kate.bryan@mail.house.gov

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-advocates-for-fiscal-responsibility-supports-the-common-cents-act,"Rep. Lucas Advocates for Fiscal Responsibility, Supports the Common Cents Act",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), a member of the House Financial Services Committee and Chairman of the House Financial Services Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, delivered remarks on the House floor advocating for fiscal responsibility by supporting the Common Cents Act. The legislation would codify President Trump’s order to the Treasury to stop production of the one-cent piece, along with allowing the Mint to produce a more cost-effective nickel.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

I rise today in strong support of the Common Cents Act. This bill has been over a year in the making with my colleagues Ms. McClain and Ranking Member Waters, and I am proud of the product we have put forward.

The one-cent piece, or the penny as it’s commonly called, costs almost four cents to produce. 2024 was the 19th consecutive year the U.S. government lost money keeping the penny in circulation.

That is why last year the President rightly ordered the Treasury Department to stop wasting hard-earned taxpayer dollars to produce the coin and why we’re excited to move forward in codifying this action.

The Common Cents Act also gives flexibility to the Mint to produce a nickel with cheaper materials. In 1866, Congress mandated the nickel be produced from an ally of copper and nickel, and we haven’t updated the composition since. This bill gives the Mint flexibility to produce a cheaper coin while retaining Congress’ responsibility of coining money.

Finally, the bill provides certainty for businesses in their cash transactions with customers, without mandating price controls from the government. We are proud to boast endorsements from the National Retail Federation, National Grocers Association, United Steelworkers International Union, and the American Bankers Association, among many others.

I want to thank Ms. McClain and Ranking Member Waters for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to enjoying broad bipartisan support from this Body today.

I reserve the balance of my time.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-delivers-opening-statement-at-chairman-warshs-first-financial-services-committee-hearing,Rep. Lucas Delivers Opening Statement at Chairman Warsh’s First Financial Services Committee Hearing,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), Chairman of the House Financial Services Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, delivered an opening statement at the House Financial Services Committee hearing on The Federal Reserve’s Semi-Annual Monetary Policy Report.

The hearing is Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh’s first testimony before Congress as Chairman of the Fed.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

Welcome Chairman Warsh to your first hearing as Chairman and congratulations on your confirmation. We look forward to your testimony today on the Monetary Policy Report.

In your first meeting you announced a number of welcome reforms including establishing five task forces that many members are eager to get your thoughts on.

For example, former Chair Powell had committed to a review of the Fed’s communications tools, and though we expected that to be completed last August alongside the review of the consensus statement, it has yet to be done.

A review of the Fed’s communications tools is long overdue, and we look forward to your focus on completing that project through the task force.

We’ve also spent time this Congress examining the composition and size of the Fed’s balance sheet, an effort that you are now undertaking at the Fed.

It is vital that the Fed get this right; we welcome continued collaboration on that front.

We have a lot to talk about today – I look forward to your testimony and our discussion. I yield back.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/fauci-invokes-the-fifth-as-lankford-presses-on-closed-churches-chinas-cover-up-and-the-former-niaid-directors-own-notes/,"Fauci Invokes the Fifth as Lankford Presses on Closed Churches, China’s Cover-Up, and the Former NIAID Director’s Own Notes",2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), today pressed Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health, on the forced closure of American churches and places of worship during the COVID-19 shutdown, and on China’s cover-up of the data, wet market, and Wuhan Institute of Virology research that Dr. Fauci himself flagged in his private notes weeks before the first American death from the virus.

Dr. Fauci invoked his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination in response to each of Lankford’s questions at today’s committee hearing on the federal government’s COVID-19 response. At the close of his questioning, Lankford raised a parliamentary question to the chairman about whether Dr. Fauci’s decision to deliver an opening statement and then refuse to answer questions is consistent with the precedent set in 2014, when the House Oversight Committee held former IRS official Lois Lerner in contempt of Congress for the same pattern.

You can watch Lankford’s full exchange HERE. You can download it HERE.

Excerpts from the hearing:

On the human toll of the pandemic response:

Lankford: “Countless families, including my own, watched a loved one die behind glass or through a screen because we couldn’t get access to them. Children couldn’t get to school. People missed their prom or graduation ceremonies. There were lots of things that happened that dramatically changed the future of the country. The mental health issues that we have been continuing to deal with from the isolation have been profound.

“Even something as simple as children that wore masks or around adults wearing masks for all that time are slower in learning language now because they couldn’t watch someone’s lips moving. And so, they’re slower in that.

“Amazingly enough, churches and places of worship were forced to be closed down. There were even churches that met with a pastor, preached in the parking lot, and the congregants all met in their cars with windows up, and police came and scattered them and said, you can’t be here.

“The simple act of social distancing became an issue, as everyone guessed what’s the right distance to be away from someone else? Literacy rates have declined. All these things are results, not to mention the loss of lives and the health experiences that have been out there for many Americans.”

On missed childhood measles vaccinations worldwide:

Lankford: “On May 6th, 2020 you wrote, at that time, ‘I had a conversation with Robert Redfield’, as you know well, was then the director of CDC ‘about the fact that greater than 1 million children worldwide have missed their measles vaccination because of the shutdown.’ You stated, ‘This is terrible and needs to be addressed, since on that basis alone there would be far, far more excess deaths from measles among children than coronavirus deaths among children. I need to bring this up to the T.F., the task force.’

“Did you ever have an opportunity to bring up the potential of measles deaths among children and infection rate going around the world from measles, based on the fact that so many children would not get their measles vaccine because of the shutdown?”

Dr. Fauci: “I’m sorry, Senator. But, on the advice of counsel, I respectfully declined to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.”

On the origins of COVID-19 and the Wuhan Institute of Virology:

Lankford: “In January the 26th of 2020, this is before we had our even our first tragic death of coronavirus in the United States, you wrote, ‘It now appears using epi data, that the genomic data in the first infection was in early December and was not connected to the market.’ … We know the market was not the source. It was the amplifier.

“On January the 31st, you wrote about a phone call. You wrote, ‘The people on the phone felt the mutations around the furin cleavage site of the spike protein could not have occurred naturally, since it would require an evolutionary jump that they found nowhere in bat isolates. They bring up the possibility this could have been deliberately inserted in either accidentally released or deliberately released by a crazy person in the lab, the former being the most likely.'”

[…]

Lankford: “The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in May of 2020 put out a classified document that has only been recently unclassified on this, that had this statement: ‘We assess all the necessary conditions for an accidental release of a laboratory modified coronavirus, specifically a coronavirus adapted to recognize human cell receptors, were present at the Chinese Wuhan Institute of Virology in mid to late 2019.'”

[…]

Lankford: “I have clearance. I serve on the Intelligence Committee. I’ve actually read this complete document unredacted. My concern is were you given the ability to see this document unredacted, based on your position? Were you able to see this and to be able to get this information? … Were you able to give access to this data?”

Dr. Fauci: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully declined to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.”

On China’s cover-up and lessons for future international research cooperation:

[…]

Lankford: “It’s not just our cooperation with Chinese scientists. It’s our acknowledgment that China covered up their data, wouldn’t allow our scientists to be able to come in. They cleaned up the wet market. They cleaned up the other areas. They wouldn’t allow you to get access to all the other scientists there, including their health records, what happened to them, or even all the sequencing that they had done in advance.”

[…]

Lankford: “If we’re going to fund research and cooperate with you, we’ve got to have certain things from you. If things go sideways, we’ve got to have access to all information in all places.”

[…]

Lankford: “The Wuhan Institute of Virology… being, as was noted by many people, the only lab in the world that was doing research like this that had a lower standard of actually their security standards there than many other labs around the world. Yet they were doing this very dangerous research.

“What can we gain and what advice could you give us to say in a future setting? We’ve got to make sure that we actually get information from people, and we can be guaranteed that we’re going to get that insight.”

Dr. Fauci: “On the advice of counsel, I respectfully declined to answer, based upon my rights under the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution.”

On the parliamentary question and the Lois Lerner precedent:

Lankford: “Chairman, really, this is a question for you. And it’s a question to try to figure out how do we get a good answer on this. Because clearly, [Dr. Fauci’s] attorneys are saying that he has a Fifth Amendment right. So we’ve also subpoenaed him to be able to compel his testimony, to be able to be here.

“I happen[ed to be] in the committee [when] we’re also dealing with Lois Lerner. Lois Lerner came and testified, gave an opening statement, and then took the Fifth Amendment. The committee then held her in contempt for that, saying, you can’t do both. You can’t both testify and say, I’m not going to answer questions.

“So the parliamentary question that I think we’ve got to be able to deal with is, is this consistent with Lois Lerner? What she also did when she came before Congress gave an opening statement, testimony, so made a statement and then refused to answer questions. Are we dealing with the same issue here where someone is [saying] you can’t make a statement and say, I’m not going to make statements at the same time.”

###",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-lankford-testifies-before-house-appropriations-committee-on-ending-government-shutdowns-forever/,ICYMI: Lankford Testifies Before House Appropriations Committee on Ending Government Shutdowns Forever,2026-07-27,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) testified Wednesday before the House Appropriations Committee in support of his bipartisan, bicameral Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, which would take government shutdowns off the table and require Congress to stay in Washington until its work is done. The hearing marked the Committee’s first full committee oversight hearing since 2008. Lankford testified alongside Representative Tom McClintock (R-CA-05) and former Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young.

Excerpts from Lankford’s prepared opening statement:

“Sharee Quick is a TSA officer in Las Vegas. During the last shutdown, she showed up to work every day with no pay. She had to make decisions every week whether she should put gas in her car or pay her electricity bill. She went more than 40 days without a paycheck. She didn’t know how she was going to pay for her essential blood pressure medication. That happened because we didn’t resolve our differences on time.

“Federal workers and their families should not suffer when Congress has not finished the yearly appropriations work. But they do. Some of you in this room may remember the December 2018 shutdown, when Congress left town for Christmas, but federal workers got lumps of coal.

“How can we actually solve this? And I say: solve this together. Today, I am bringing you something unique: a nonpartisan proposal. Seven years ago, I sat down with my Democratic colleague Maggie Hassan from New Hampshire to develop a plan to end government shutdowns in a nonpartisan way. We worked alongside Representatives Arrington and Panetta to get more input and ideas.

“The bill does not solve every fiscal and budgetary problem we need to address, but it does solve one thing: it prevents government shutdowns.

“My mom was a schoolteacher, school librarian, and school administrator her whole career. She would have said, ‘If you do not finish your work during class, you have to stay after school until it is finished.'”

On How PGSA Puts Pressure on Congress Instead of Federal Workers:

Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03): “Can you explain how your proposal would facilitate bipartisan compromise, when many of us think that it would likely facilitate more entrenched partisan disagreement?”

Lankford: “This particular proposal puts the pressure on us, not on federal workers. Right now, the leverage to get our work done is TSA agents not getting paid, air traffic control not getting paid, federal law enforcement not getting paid. Those families are the leverage for us to do our work. Those families have nothing to do with our inability to be able to get things finished up. I want to put the leverage on us, not on federal workers and their families. And the best way to do that is basically to force us to stay in the room until we’re finished negotiating.

“I go back to my mom again. My best advice ever came from my mom. When my brother and I would have an argument in the living room, she would make both of us leave and go to one of our rooms and say, ‘If you guys are going to fight, go over there and fight. Don’t disturb the rest of the family. When you’re done, then you can come back in here.’ That basically puts all of us, House and Senate, Republicans and Democrats, to say you can’t do anything but appropriations, and you’re going to stay there until appropriations is done. When appropriations is done, then you can go home or move to other subjects. But until you do appropriations, you can’t leave or switch other things. I think that puts the pressure where it needs to be, on us.”

On Support from Representative Steny Hoyer:

Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05): “I want to thank you for this thoughtful proposal. I will tell you, I am very much supportive of your proposal. You cannot consider other legislation until must-pass legislation. And the only must-pass legislation is the appropriation bills. None of the authorizing bills are must-pass. Consequences will occur, but they will not shut down government if they don’t pass.

“And I want to thank you for a thoughtful presentation and the way that you always present yourself and your issues in a constructive, positive way. And I look forward to working with you as we go forward. Because as majority leader, I indicated to the Appropriations Committee and Shalanda Young, I want the bills ready to go to the floor by June 1st. I want all the bills considered in June… So I thank the gentleman. I thank you. I look forward to working with them.”

Background

Since its initial introduction in 2019, the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act has earned support from 31 organizations and policy experts across the ideological spectrum. Supporters include 11 labor and federal workforce organizations, among them the American Federation of Government Employees, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the National Treasury Employees Union, the Air Line Pilots Association, the Association of Flight Attendants, and the United Steelworkers; conservative and free market organizations including Americans for Prosperity, Americans for Tax Reform, and the National Taxpayers Union; veterans organizations including Concerned Veterans for America and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America; and good government groups including the Bipartisan Policy Center, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, and the Partnership for Public Service.

You can watch Lankford’s full opening remarksHERE. You can download the exchanges from the hearing HERE.

###",1,2026-07-28T07:37:32Z,2026-07-28T07:38:50Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-coons-introduce-bill-to-expand-grant-opportunities-for-rural-law-enforcement-officers/,"Lankford, Coons Introduce Bill to Expand Grant Opportunities for Rural Law Enforcement Officers",2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced the Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026, which would allow qualified nonprofit organizations and state government entities to use Department of Justice grant funding to provide training to small and rural law enforcement agencies at no cost to those agencies.

Nearly half of local police departments in the United States have fewer than 10 sworn officers, three out of four have fewer than two dozen, and eight out of 10 have fewer than 50. Federal law enforcement grants administered by the Department of Justice often carry complex application processes and extensive reporting requirements, and smaller agencies frequently skip applying altogether because they lack the staff and experience to navigate them.

“For too long, federal grant programs have felt out of reach for many small and rural law enforcement agencies,” said Lankford. “The grant process can be cumbersome and difficult to navigate, especially for a department with a handful of officers. Our bill fixes this by letting qualified nonprofits carry the paperwork and bring the training directly to small agencies at no cost to them. Small law enforcement agencies should not be cut off from federal grant dollars.”

“Every community, including those in places like rural southern Delaware, deserves well-trained law enforcement protection,” said Coons. “Rural police departments often have significantly less funding than they need to participate in modern training programs, and we should give them the tools they need to protect and serve their communities.”

“Far too often the brave men and women of our nation’s law enforcement community, especially those from smaller and rural departments, lack the necessary training to effectively and safely resolve incidents they routinely face in the course of their duties. There is an important need for the federal government to allow for law enforcement officers from small and rural departments to receive proper training for such incidents, both routine and often unfamiliar. The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026 will help ensure that law enforcement personnel from smaller and rural departments will have access to the training so vitally important to helping ensure both a proper and effective response to critical incidents and as a result preserving law enforcement and civilian life and security alike. On behalf of the over 40,000 members of the National Tactical Officers Association, I strongly commend Sen. Lankford and Sen. Coons for bringing this important legislation forward,” said Thor Eells, Executive Director of the National Tactical Officers Association.

“On behalf of the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executive’s Association, I thank Sen. Lankford and Sen. Coons for introducing this important legislation. The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026 will significantly increase the access to critical training for smaller and rural law enforcement departments and agencies nationwide at no additional cost to the taxpayer. By expanding DOJ grant eligibility to validated nonprofit organizations to provide vital training to smaller and rural law enforcement agencies, it will ensure that needed training will be received by law enforcement officials nationwide irrespective of their department’s size or resources. This increased training will assist agencies and their respective communities to respond effectively, efficiently, and compassionately to the public they serve,” said Mike Brown, Executive Director of the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executive’s Association.

Background

The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act would allow qualified nonprofit organizations and state government entities to receive Department of Justice law enforcement training grants to deliver training at no cost to agencies with fewer than 50 sworn officers. Eligible training includes de-escalation, officer wellness, leadership development, victim-centered response to domestic violence, critical incident response and management, and evidence-based safety training for active shooter situations, safe handling of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals, rescue operations, and countering ambush attacks.

The bill also covers training for responding to calls involving people with mental health needs, substance use disorders, disabilities, veterans, vulnerable youth, victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or trafficking, and people experiencing homelessness or living in poverty. In addition, the bill would allow two or more localities receiving Department of Justice grants under this program to pool their grants to contract with a qualified nonprofit for shared training.

You can view the full text of the bill HERE.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-budget-reconciliation-bill-0,Bice Supports Budget Reconciliation Bill,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives took the first step in passing their third reconciliation bill of the 119th Congress. This concurrent resolution instructs three committees: the Committee on House Administration, the Armed Services Committee, and the Agriculture Committee to draft legislative text to secure America’s elections and support our troops and farmers. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Administration Committee and has supported voter ID and the Save Act both in committee and on the House floor. Reconciliation bills only require a simple majority in the Senate.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“Strengthening our military, securing our elections, and supporting our farmers are all essential in keeping America safe, secure, and prosperous. This budget resolution takes the first step in ensuring that our troops have the munitions they need to protect themselves and our homeland. Importantly, it also mimics my legislation, the STEADFAST Act, which contains budgetary mechanisms to help secure our elections, in line with the SAVE Act. This is a critical step in the process, and I was proud to support it.”

More information on the STEADFAST Act, which passed the House Administration Committee, can be found here.

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-continuing-resolution,Bice Supports Continuing Resolution,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Bice supported a continuing resolution to fund government through December 4, 2026. Importantly, this funding maintains Republican spending levels and priorities of the Trump Administration. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills through regular order out of committee.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“I am incredibly proud of the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills out of our committee. However, due to the inaction of Senate Democrats, a clean continuing resolution is needed to prevent a partisan, Democrat-driven government-wide shutdown, similar to what we witnessed last year. With the current Fiscal Year ending on September 30th, this legislation is straightforward and continues responsible spending with no poison pills. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take up this legislation and put the American people ahead of politics.""

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-legislation-stop-insider-trading,Bice Supports Legislation to Stop Insider Trading,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C.- Today, the House passed the Stop Insider Trading Act, legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability in Congress. This legislation prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing individual stocks and establishes additional public disclosure requirements for stock sales.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“I was proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Stop Insider Trading Act. The American people deserve to know their elected officials are serving the public, not their own financial interests. Members of Congress should be held to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, and this legislation is an important step toward restoring trust in Congress.”

Bill Summary:

The Stop Insider Trading Act would:

Ban Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing securities issued by publicly traded companies.

Require Members of Congress to file a public notice with the Clerk of the House or the Secretary of the Senate at least 7 days, but no more than 14 days before any intended stock sale.

Require the House Ethics Committee to assess a penalty equal to the greater value of $2,000 or 10% of the covered investment

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-fiscal-year-2027-national-defense-authorization-act,Cole Votes in Favor of Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation authorizes funding for military capabilities, personnel policies, industrial-base reforms, and national security priorities needed to keep America safe. After voting in favor of the NDAA, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“During this time when our nation is facing the most dangerous threat environment in generations, protecting our nation’s defense is critical. Today, I cast my vote to do exactly that. The Fiscal Year 2027 NDAA increases pay for our selfless men and women in uniform, revitalizes American military strength, restores lethal capabilities, and strengthens deterrence by implementing President Trump’s peace through strength agenda - all while at the same time eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse at the Pentagon,” said Congressman Cole. “Through passing the NDAA on the House Floor today, Republicans sent this very clear message to the rest of the world: our warfighters have the weapons to win, and our adversaries should stay in their lane.”

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-keep-government-working-american-people,Cole Votes to Keep the Government Working for the American People,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of his own legislation, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027, to keep the government open and working for the American people. After the legislation passed the House, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

""Too many members of Congress mistake a cliff's edge for political leverage – and this bill refuses to reward those who depend on obstruction and chaos. Instead, it puts certainty and stability for the nation first. There is no virtue in waiting until every option has disappeared before deciding to act. This legislation protects our national security, preserves critical services, and removes any party from seeking to manufacture shutdown leverage before elections. There are no poison pills, no political gimmicks, and no partisan riders – just a clean, straightforward stopgap. So, today leaves no question where House Republicans stand – we chose responsibility over crisis, leadership over politics, and governing over gamesmanship. That is what Article I demands, and it is exactly what the American people expect,"" said Congressman Cole.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4186,Hern Applauds Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The FY27 NDAA strengthens America’s national defense by revitalizing the defense industrial base, improving quality of life for servicemembers and their families, and investing in the production and acquisition of key capabilities needed to protect the United States and our allies around the world.

“Under the weak leadership of the Biden administration, our military suffered as supply chains weakened, recruitment declined, critical programs stalled, and our adversaries grew emboldened,” said Rep. Hern. “But with President Trump as Commander-in-Chief, readiness and lethality have been restored in our Armed Forces. The FY27 NDAA delivers a well-earned pay raise for servicemembers, strengthens the United States’ defense industrial base, and provides our troops with the resources, equipment, and support they need to defend our interests at home and abroad. The only way to secure peace is through strength, and this legislation ensures our military remains the most capable fighting force in the world.”

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/house-appropriations-to-hear-lankfords-plan-to-end-government-shutdowns-in-first-oversight-hearing-since-2008/,House Appropriations to Hear Lankford’s Plan to End Government Shutdowns in First Oversight Hearing Since 2008,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) will testify Wednesday before the House Appropriations Committee in support of his bipartisan, bicameral Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, which would take government shutdowns off the table and force Congress to stay in town until its work is done. The hearing marks the Committee’s first full-committee oversight hearing since 2008.

Lankford introduced the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026 with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH). Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19) and Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19).

WHAT: House Appropriations Committee full committee hearing, “Funding Lapses: Analyzing Shutdown Reform”

WHO: Senator James Lankford, Rep. Tom McClintock, and Shalanda Young

WHEN: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET

WHERE: 2128 Rayburn House Office Building

LIVESTREAM: Hearing page and livestream

Since its initial introduction in 2019, the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act has earned support from 31 organizations and policy experts across the ideological spectrum. Supporters include 11 labor and federal workforce organizations, among them the American Federation of Government Employees, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the National Treasury Employees Union, the Air Line Pilots Association, the Association of Flight Attendants, and the United Steelworkers; conservative and free market organizations including Americans for Prosperity, Americans for Tax Reform, and the National Taxpayers Union; veterans organizations including Concerned Veterans for America and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America; and good government groups including the Bipartisan Policy Center, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, and the Partnership for Public Service.

Ahead of Wednesday’s hearing, supporters including the Association of Flight Attendants, the American Federation of Government Employees, the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, Concerned Veterans for America, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the Bipartisan Policy Center, and the Partnership for Public Service submitted letters of support to the Committee.

Joining Lankford and Hassan in cosponsoring the bipartisan legislation are Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY), and Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Kennedy (R-LA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Tim Scott (R-SC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Alan Armstrong (R-OK), John Fetterman (D-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

Background

Introduced initially in February 2019, the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act requires that if appropriations work is not done on time, all Members of Congress must stay in Washington, DC, and work until the spending bills are completed. This will prevent a government-wide shutdown, continue critical services and operations for Americans, and hold federal workers harmless while Congress completes appropriations.

Upon a lapse in government funding, the bill would implement an automatic continuing resolution (CR) on rolling 14-day periods, based on the most current spending levels enacted in the previous fiscal year. This would prevent a shutdown and continue critical services and operations.

During the covered period of an automatic CR, the following restrictions are put in place:

No taxpayer-funded travel allowances for official business (except one flight to return to Washington, DC) for the following:

White House OMB staff and leadership

Members of the House and Senate

Committee and personal staff of the House and Senate

No official funds may be used for CODEL or STAFFDEL travel

No use of campaign funds by congressional offices to supplement official duties or travel expenses

No motions to recess or adjourn in the House/Senate for a period of more than 23 hours

In addition, under the bill, no other votes would be in order in the House and Senate unless they pertain to passage of the appropriations bills or mandatory quorum calls in the Senate. However, after 30 days under the automatic CR, certain expiring authorization bills and executive calendar nominations would be eligible for consideration on the Senate floor, including a nomination for a Justice of the Supreme Court or a Cabinet Secretary, and narrow reauthorization legislation for programs operating under an authorization that has already expired or will expire within the next 30 days. These restrictions can be waived by a two-thirds vote in either chamber, but not for longer than seven days.

You can view the full bill text HERE.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-passing-former-member-congress-tim-murphy,Cole Statement on the Passing of Former Member of Congress Tim Murphy,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after hearing of the passing of a former member of Congress from Pennsylvania, Tim Murphy:

“I am incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of my former congressional classmate and friend, Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania. Tim was a man who truly dedicated his life to serving others, leaving behind a legacy defined by his unwavering commitment to our great nation.

“Tim served his state in the Pennsylvania State Senate and then went on to represent his community in the United States House of Representatives. During his time in Washington, he was an active and productive member of our Conference, serving his constituents with dedication and passion.

“In 2009, while representing Pennsylvania’s 18th Congressional District in Congress, he decided to expand his service by joining and earning a commission in the United States military. He was a passionate advocate for those living with PTSD, providing support to countless service members and veterans. All of this proves one thing to be true: Tim Murphy was a long-time public servant. He served our nation through both the legislative branch and the military, touching countless lives along the way, and his service will not be forgotten.

“My thoughts, prayers, and condolences are with his family, his friends, and all of those who had the pleasure of working with and knowing Tim Murphy. May he rest in peace,” said Congressman Cole.

###",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-coons-introduce-bill-to-help-unemployed-workers-start-small-businesses/,"Lankford, Coons Introduce Bill to Help Unemployed Workers Start Small Businesses",2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Jon Husted (R-OH) introduced the New Opportunities for Business Ownership and Self-Sufficiency (NO BOSS)Act recently, legislation that would modernize the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) program so that laid off workers can more easily receive their normal allotment of unemployment insurance even while working full-time to start a new business.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will likely reshape America’s economy and disrupt or displace jobs across many sectors. However, even as AI is expected to contribute to job losses, it will also lower barriers to entrepreneurship, making it easier than ever for workers to start a small business. The NO BOSS Act would ensure that workers experiencing a job transition don’t have to sacrifice their unemployment insurance payments to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

Current law allows states to operate Self-Employment Assistance programs, which allow eligible unemployment insurance beneficiaries to continue receiving benefits while working full-time to launch a business rather than searching for traditional employment. However, outdated federal rules unnecessarily limit who can participate, leaving fewer workers with a meaningful opportunity to choose business ownership over traditional employment.

“If you lose your job, the government shouldn’t tell you the only way forward is to go work for somebody else. Some folks have a business idea they’ve been dreaming about for years, and losing a job might be the push to finally chase it. Right now, an outdated federal rule forces people on unemployment to spend their time applying for jobs they don’t want instead of building the business they do want. Our bill fixes that. If you’re willing to put in the work to start a business, hire your neighbors, and build something in your community, we should cheer you on, not stand in your way,” said Lankford.

“Every small business began with someone taking a chance on a new idea, and new AI tools will make it easier than ever to turn those ideas into business plans, sales, and storefronts,” said Coons. “Americans shouldn’t have to choose between the safety net of unemployment benefits that they’ve paid into and the all-American opportunity to chase their entrepreneurial dream. As artificial intelligence reshapes the nature of work, this bill will help support American entrepreneurs, keep food on families’ tables, lift up small businesses, and keep our economy strong.”

Background

The NO BOSS Act would update the SEA program by:

Creating new opportunities for unemployment insurance beneficiaries and encouraging small business formation

Eliminating the requirement that SEA beneficiaries must be “likely to exhaust benefits,” which implies the program can only be used by workers unlikely to find another job

Clarifying that developing a business plan and conducting market feasibility studies count as entrepreneurship work

Making it easier for more states to establish SEA programs modeled on the most successful state programs

The bill is endorsed by the Center for American Entrepreneurship, the Foundation for American Innovation, the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council, the R Street Institute, Shopify, Block, Bipartisan Policy Center Action, and the Coalition to Protect America’s Small Sellers.

You can find the full text of the bill HERE.

###",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-joins-darline-graham-blumenthal-and-60-senators-to-hold-purchasers-of-russian-oil-accountable/,"Lankford Joins Darline Graham, Blumenthal and 60+ Senators to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable",2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"Before his death, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) secured an agreement with the White House on new text to bring sweeping sanctions against the enablers of Russia’s war in Ukraine

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Darline Graham (R-SC) and more than 60 members of the Senate in introducing the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

US Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death.

“Putin is a murderous KGB thug, and the countries still buying Russian oil and natural gas know they are funding his war against Ukraine,” said Lankford. “If we cut off Russia’s oil money, we cut off the weapons murdering Ukrainians. Lindsey Graham was an outspoken advocate for the freedom-loving people of Ukraine. Let’s finish what he started and put the pressure on Russia and everyone who bankrolls them.”

“Until the very day he passed, Lindsey remained focused on passing the Russia sanctions bill. Passing this legislation would honor my brother’s steadfast commitment to our national security and it would provide President Trump with additional leverage to bring this war to an end. I look forward to working with my colleagues to pass this legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk,” said Darline Graham.

“Ukraine is at a critical crossroads — and we must meet this pivotal moment with a powerful sanctions bill. As Ukraine turns the tide on the battlefield, our Russia sanctions bill would be historically impactful in stopping Russia’s murderous slaughter,” said Blumenthal. “When Senator Graham and I last spoke, he was absolutely exultant, calling from Kyiv with news that President Trump would support this bill to impose scorching tariffs and sanctions on purchasers of Russian oil and stop them from fueling Putin’s war machine. Now is the time to push Russia toward peace. Ukraine is gaining net territory and reaching deep into Russia with its drones and missiles. Sanctions provide a path toward peace. Our bill is the product of lengthy, detailed, difficult bipartisan work, and now has broad bipartisan support. Passing this legislation right now would be a fitting tribute to Senator Graham’s fierce support for Ukraine’s freedom.”

Background

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 would impose primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The sanctions target Russian officials, oligarchs, their family members, foreign persons, and Russian banks and financial institutions, as well as the Russian Shadow Fleet.

The legislation also directs the President to impose up to 100 percent tariffs on imported goods from countries that buy the majority of Russian oil, gas, and enable Russian sanctions evasion. The new text limits these tariffs to the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and gas.

Joining Lankford, Graham and Blumenthal in cosponsoring the legislation are Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD); Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY); Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus; and Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Katie Britt (R-AL); Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee; Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI); Jim Risch (R-ID), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Chris Coons (D-DE); Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee; Michael Bennet (D-CO); Tom Cotton (R-AR), Chair of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee; Tim Scott (R-SC), Chair of the Senate Banking Committee; Angus King (I-ME); Tim Kaine (D-VA); Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee; Mitch McConnell (R-KY); Mark Kelly (D-AZ); Thom Tillis (R-NC); Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY); Joni Ernst (R-IA); Jacky Rosen (D-NV); Pete Ricketts (R-NE); Brian Schatz (D-HI); John Cornyn (R-TX); Adam Schiff (D-CA); Tim Sheehy (R-MT); Amy Klobuchar (D-MN); John Curtis (R-UT); John Fetterman (D-PA); Dan Sullivan (R-AK); Tammy Duckworth (D-IL); Gary Peters (D-MI); John Hickenlooper (D-CO); Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS); Martin Heinrich (D-NM); Marsha Blackburn (R-TN); Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD); John Boozman (R-AR); Chris Van Hollen (D-MD); Kevin Cramer (R-ND); Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV); Jon Husted (R-OH); John Hoeven (R-ND); Deb Fischer (R-NE); Jim Justice (R-WV); Mike Rounds (R-SD); Ted Cruz (R-TX); John Kennedy (R-LA); Cynthia Lummis (R-WY); Lisa Murkowski (R-AK); Rick Scott (R-FL); Ted Budd (R-NC); Jerry Moran (R-KS); Tommy Tuberville (R-AL); Dave McCormick (R-PA); Alan Armstrong (R-OK); and Steve Daines (R-MT).

You can read the one-pager on the legislation HERE. You can also read the full bill text HERE.

###",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-counter-adversaries-reinforce-security-and-advance-america-first,"Cole Votes to Counter Adversaries, Reinforce Security, and Advance America First Diplomacy",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R.8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation acts to maintain robust funding for our allies, counters our adversaries, and supports President Trump’s vision to refocus and realign foreign policy to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. After voting in favor of the legislation, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“True leadership isn't merely declared – it is upheld through the choices we make, the priorities we fund, and the resolve we show in putting America first and protecting our national interests. This legislation reflects that philosophy by replacing the drift of previous administrations with direction and ensuring our investments bolster U.S. security, influence, and prosperity. President Trump has made clear that our nation will lead with purpose and confidence – both at home and on the world stage. The Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee Chairman Díaz-Balart answered that call with legislation that prioritizes strength over symbolism, strategy over bureaucracy, and results over rhetoric. It directs resources to the highest-impact national security and economic priorities by reinforcing our alliances, pushing back decisively against adversaries like Communist China, and confronting illicit actors and transnational networks. It also eliminates billions in unnecessary spending because great nations are defined not by how much they spend, but by how wisely they invest. Today's passage demonstrates Article I in action – where the power of the purse strengthens America's security, advances our values, and ensures a stronger future,” said Congressman Cole.

Key Provisions in the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, Fiscal Year 2027

Champions America First foreign policy by redefining foreign assistance to promote self-sufficiency, bolster economic growth and stability, and protect United States national security.

Codifies President Trump’s executive orders to ensure no wasteful spending on DEI or woke programs, climate change mandates, or radical gender ideologies.

Prioritizes funds and policies to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States.

Maintains all long-standing pro-life protections.

Allows only the American flag and other official flags to be flown over United States embassies or consulates.

Holds foreign governments accountable for persecuting people of faith.

Provides unwavering support for Israel.

Includes Foreign Military Assistance for Taiwan and the Philippines.

Denies the Chinese Communist Party access to U.S. backed resources.

Prohibits funds to the Taliban.

Prioritizes fiscal sanity and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse by strategically investing in partners to help them achieve long-term goals in the interest of United States national security.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-questions-dni-nominee-jay-clayton-on-iran-threats-terror-financing-and-odni-reform/,"Lankford Questions DNI Nominee Jay Clayton on Iran Threats, Terror Financing, and ODNI Reform",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, today questioned Jay Clayton, President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, on the growing terror threat from Iran and how his experience prosecuting terrorists, spies, and money launderers in the Southern District of New York prepares him to lead the intelligence community.

You can watch Lankford’s full remarks at the hearing HERE. You can download it HERE.

Excerpts:

On Serving Policymakers with Clear Intelligence:

Lankford: “You have served the nation in multiple different roles, before and leading SEC, and did a very good job there, in the Southern District of New York in the US Attorney’s office. You’ve got a very unique experience and background walking in on intelligence. You’ve handled money laundering, drug kingpins. You’ve handled international terrorists, foreign terrorist organizations, counterespionage cases. You’ve handled a lot of things as a prosecutor in this. My question to you is, how does that experience, in knowing what is needed to actually prosecute individuals, affect how you approach this task in helping the intelligence community trying to be able to gather information?”

Clayton: “[…] The intelligence community is about providing information and analysis, not setting policy or making decisions. I look forward to playing that role as ODNI. I think that my experience as a consumer of that type of information will help me provide the information in the way that is best for the consumers I serve. […] The women and men of the intelligence community are incredible. I look forward to working with them, learning from them, and figuring out how to provide that best possible intelligence product.”

On Streamlining the Office of the Director of National Intelligence:

Lankford: “ODNI started out as a very small entity after the 9/11 attacks, as you know well. It has grown to a multi-thousand-person organization. […] We have a lot of people that are detailed from a lot of our intelligence agencies to the Director of National Intelligence office. […] You’ve led a lot of large organizations. Tell me, process wise, how you walk in to be able to look at, are we right size, right task? Do we have people here that need to actually be there? How do you make those decisions?”

Clayton: “[…] What is our mission? The safety and security of the American people. How do we deal with that every day? We provide decision makers with the best possible intelligence product. What is the structure over the intelligence community with the role that we have, which is supposed to be oversight and integration, not operations? What is the structure that best serves that? That’s how I intend to look at it. […] The analogy that is in my mind is a board of directors that oversees a number of subsidiaries. In most cases, that board of directors is fairly lean and relies on reporting from the subsidiaries. […] One thing you don’t want to do as a member of a board of directors, whether you’re in oversight or empowerment or both, is get into the day-to-day of management. You lose perspective.”

On the Threat from Iran:

Lankford: “You have handled terrorism cases coming straight out of Iran and threats that have come to us. For 47 years, the United States and American citizens all around the world have faced terrorism threats from Iran and the growth of the proxy terror organizations. What can you tell us at this point, based on your experience in the Southern District of New York and your prosecution side of things, and then also some of the work that you had done in the past just dealing with money laundering and the movement of money, the most effective way to be able to deal with the threats that we’re facing right now from Iran?”

Clayton: “The threat’s real. It’s not hypothetical. Look, all you need to do is look at the people who we have arrested in the last year and what they have done. They intend to do our citizens harm. They are well funded, and they are well funded through channels that we need to do a better job of monitoring. Our traditional banking channels I think are fairly well monitored. There are new channels, I would say digital asset platforms, other channels where funding takes place that we need to do a better job on.”

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-passing-senator-lindsey-graham,Cole Statement on Passing of Senator Lindsey Graham,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"July 13, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina:

""There are few corners of Capitol Hill where South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham wasn't known. Whether you knew him personally or simply watched him at work, he was impossible to ignore.

""Lindsey was a ubiquitous presence in Washington – with few office holders as visible, quotable, or energetic as him. For more than three decades, he served throughout the House and Senate – building a reputation as a determined legislator, a media presence, and a dealmaker. From the green rooms to the global stage, Lindsey was always in the middle of the debate, making the case for what he believed in for South Carolina and the nation.

""When it came to foreign affairs, Graham was an old-fashioned statesman and hawk. He believed America was a force for good in the world, and he never hesitated to confront those who threatened our interests and our allies – from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea to terrorist organizations around the globe.

""As Appropriators serving in different chambers, we worked together and shared a commitment to a strong national defense. I always appreciated his insight, his candor, and his willingness to pick up the phone to exchange ideas, discuss Oklahoma figures or issues, or strategize how we could bridge differences between the House and Senate. He was never shy about calling to seek advice, compare notes, or test his own impressions – a quality that reflected both his confidence and his respect for the views of others.

""Lindsey approached public service with boundless energy, sharp wit, and genuine optimism. He loved serving in Congress, and it showed every day. He was a gifted communicator, a persuasive advocate, and someone who never lost his enthusiasm for the institution or for the work of governing.

""I will miss Senator Lindsey Graham, and so will the Congress he served so faithfully. His gregarious nature always left us with points made crispy, cleanly, and with a laugh. That energy and humor certainly made him the ‘happy warrior’ of his political generation. His leadership, collegiality, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed,"" said Congressman Cole.

###",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-leads-bipartisan-bicameral-lawmakers-urging-hhs-and-cms-to-monitor-dangers-of-physician-assisted-suicide/,"Lankford Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Lawmakers Urging HHS and CMS to Monitor Dangers of Physician-Assisted Suicide",2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. urging HHS and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to establish reporting requirements in the hospice program to monitor physician-assisted suicide for discrimination against individuals with disabilities, older adults, and other vulnerable populations.

The Members warned that physician-assisted suicide “raises significant informed consent issues as well as concerns about disability and age discrimination” and noted that the vast majority of patients receiving physician-assisted suicide are enrolled in hospice.

The Members wrote in their letter, “We urge HHS and CMS to establish reporting requirements to monitor physician-assisted suicide for discriminatory practices and oversee compliance with federal funding restrictions within hospice programs. All hospice patients—regardless of disability, age or financial means—deserve compassionate end-of-life care that is free of coercion and discrimination.”

Lankford and Kaine were joined by US Representatives Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC-03) and Lou Correa (D-CA-46), who led the letter in the House.

“Every person has inherent worth and dignity, including those facing their final days,” said Lankford. “Hospice should be a place of compassion, comfort, and care, where the suffering are surrounded by loved ones and quality health care, not a place where they feel quietly pressured to end their lives through assisted suicide. Federal law is clear that taxpayer dollars cannot pay for assisted suicide, and discrimination against the aged and disabled is prohibited. HHS and CMS have a responsibility to make sure vulnerable people are protected. We’re simply asking them to do that job.”

“Everyone deserves to make their own decisions regarding end-of-life care,” said Kaine. “Where patients are making these choices, they should be free of discrimination and coercion. That is why my colleagues and I are calling on HHS and CMS to exercise oversight to make sure all patients are treated with dignity, including and especially at the end of their lives.”

“As a practicing physician of 35 years, I have dedicated my career to saving lives and comforting my patients, said Murphy. “The oath all physicians take is ‘to do no harm’. Physicians who take part in assisting suicide are breaking that oath. It is a great tragedy that people feel that life offers them no recourse other than to end their lives. Rather than suicide we should invest more in palliative care and hospice which are much more acceptable forms of medical care. Sadly abuses, such as the lack of informed consent and discriminatory practices, have occurred and patients and their families have been wronged. The House of Medicine should not participate in assisted suicide when we have other humane alternatives to offer.”

“All Americans deserve access to quality care, free from discrimination, and that’s why I’m joining my colleagues in urging HHS and CMS to protect patients from discrimination based on age, disability, diagnosis, or other factors when pursuing physician-assisted suicide,” said Rep. Correa. “We must have guardrails to make sure everyone receives compassionate end-of-life care regardless of their circumstances.”

In 1997, Congress passed the Assisted Suicide Funding Restriction Act of 1997, which prohibits the use of Federal funds to provide or pay for any health care item or service or health benefit coverage for the purpose of causing, or assisting to cause, the death of any individual, including “mercy killing, euthanasia, or assisted suicide.” Congress has made clear that no Medicare funds, including hospice payments, may be used to facilitate physician-assisted suicide, including physician consultation services, prescribing or dispensing of medications used for the purpose of causing death, or assistance with the ingestion of such medications.

Congress also spoke to this issue when it passed the Affordable Care Act, which also provides anti-discrimination protections for an individual or institutional health care entity that does not participate in “assisted suicide, euthanasia, or mercy killing.”

Disability Rights groups have filed lawsuits in 5 states (CA, CO, DE, NY and IL) alleging that physician-assisted suicide laws unconstitutionally discriminate against people with life-threatening disabilities because it treats them differently from non-disabled patients who report suicidal ideation to a medical provider.

Many medical organizations and disability rights groups are opposed to assisted suicide, including but not limited to the World Medical Association, American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, National Council on Independent Living, United Spinal Association, Not Dead Yet, Access Living, Patients’ Rights Action Fund, and Aging With Dignity.

The National Council on Disability, an independent, bipartisan federal agency, warns in its 2019 report, “The Danger of Assisted Suicide Laws”, that under physician-assisted suicide laws, “some people’s lives, particularly those of people with disabilities, will be ended without their fully informed and free consent, through mistakes, abuse, insufficient knowledge, and the unjust lack of better options.”

You can read more about the letter in The Hill HERE.

You can read the full letter HERE and below:

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

We write to you as bipartisan, bicameral Members of Congress in response to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) request for information regarding medical aid in dying (MAID), 91 Fed. Reg. 17338, also medically termed physician-assisted suicide. Physician-assisted suicide raises significant informed consent issues as well as concerns about disability and age discrimination. The vast majority of patients receiving physician-assisted suicide are enrolled in hospice—90% in Washington. This poses challenges for HHS and CMS’ regulation of patient health and safety within the hospice program. We urge HHS and CMS to implement reporting requirements in the hospice program to monitor physician-assisted suicide for discriminatory practices against vulnerable populations, as well as to ensure compliance with the Assisted Suicide Funding Restriction Act.

In 1997, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously upheld Washington’s and New York’s bans on physician-assisted suicide in Washington v. Glucksberg and Vacco v. Quill. The majority opinions found that there is no right to physician-assisted suicide under the Due Process or Equal Protection Clauses. Justice Sandra Day O’Connor concurred, joined by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Justice Stephen Breyer, expressing concern about “the risk that a dying patient’s request for assistance in ending his or her life might not be truly voluntary.”‍ Nearly thirty years of physician-assisted suicide in the United States has not alleviated that concern.

Currently, thirteen states plus the District of Columbia permit physician-assisted suicide. These laws permit certain medical practitioners to prescribe drugs at lethal dosages to a patient that is, among other criteria, eighteen years or older and “terminally ill” with a six month or less prognosis, with or without care, so that the patient may self-administer the drugs. Yet, as the National Council on Disability, an independent, bi-partisan federal agency, warns, under physician-assisted suicide laws, “some people’s lives, particularly those of people with disabilities, will be ended without their fully informed and free consent, through mistakes, abuse, insufficient knowledge, and the unjust lack of better options.”‍

There are grave informed consent issues within physician-assisted suicide. Patients spend little time with the physician providing physician-assisted suicide relative to the course of their disease. Only 0.5% of patients received mental health referrals, even though many physician-assisted suicide patients show signs of depression, which can impair the decision-making process. On top of this, “it is common for medical prognoses of a short life expectancy to be wrong,” and under the definition of terminal illness in physician-assisted suicide laws, “[t]here is no requirement that the doctors consider the likely impact of medical treatment, counseling, and other supports on survival.”

Physician-assisted suicide drugs are not approved for the purpose of ending human life. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved drugs indicated for physician-assisted suicide. These drugs would not meet the criteria as “safe” for purposes of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Instead, medical practitioners prescribe drugs approved for other indications to be used “off-label” for physician-assisted suicide. As The Atlantic reported in 2019, “[i]n states where the practice is legal, state governments provide guidance about which patients qualify but say nothing about which drugs to prescribe.”‍ With “no government-approved clinical drug trial, and no Institutional Review Board oversight,” physician-assisted suicide drug prescribers are left with little oversight in assisting end-of-life patients.

Disability issues also arise in physician-assisted suicide. An individual with terminal illness meets the definition of a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. In fact, individuals with disabilities and disability civil rights groups have raised this argument and alleged physician-assisted suicide laws violate federal disability rights laws in litigation across the country. Annual state reports have shown that patients seeking assistance in ending their lives commonly do so, not due to pain or concerns about future pain, but for disability-related reasons, citing concerns about “loss of autonomy,” being “less able to engage in activities,” and “loss of dignity.”‍ 18 Consequently, many individuals with disabilities warn that states legalizing physician-assisted suicide send the message that the lives of persons with disabilities are less valued in society.

Age discrimination and elder abuse are also concerns within physician-assisted suicide practices. Most physician-assisted suicide patients are age 65 or older (86.2% in Washington). Although physician-assisted suicide laws require two witnesses to the lethal drug request, most states only require one witness to be disinterested, meaning, one of these witnesses may be a beneficiary to the patient’s will or life insurance policy or a disaffected caregiver 20 Physician-assisted suicide laws do not require a prescriber or any witnesses to be present when the patient self-administers the drugs. These circumstances enable the possibility of financial exploitation.

Physician-assisted suicide undermines America’s national posture of suicide prevention. America is facing an epidemic of suicide. In 2024, we lost more than 50,000 Americans to suicide and over 1.5 million Americans attempted suicide. Suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death in America and around 135 suicides occur every day on average. Additionally, over 14 million adults reported seriously considering suicide in 2024. Peer-reviewed data shows that where physician-assisted suicide is legalized, rates of suicide increase. Additionally, each year the U.S. government, states, and localities invest millions of taxpayer dollars in suicide prevention services. A 2024 National Institutes of Health report shows that the economic cost of suicide/self-harm is estimated at $510 billion annually. New data shows that people living with serious and potentially

life-limiting health conditions are more than twice as likely to die by suicide compared with the general population. Physician-assisted suicide undermines suicide prevention services, normalizes premature death for vulnerable populations, and pushes society away from robust care, support, and the protection of life.

Congress has restricted federal funding for physician-assisted suicide and protected conscientious objections to the practice. The Assisted Suicide Funding Restriction Act broadly limits federal funds from “paying (directly or indirectly)” for the provision of “any health care item or service furnished for the purpose of causing, or for the purpose of assisting in causing, the death of any individual, such as by assisted suicide, euthanasia, or mercy killing.”‍ This prohibition extends to a “pay[ment] . . . for such an item or service” and a “pay[ment] (in whole or in part) for health benefit coverage” related to the coverage or expenses of “such an item or service.”‍ The Affordable Care Act also provides anti-discrimination protections for an individual

or institutional health care entity that does not participate in “assisted suicide, euthanasia, or mercy

killing.”‍ We request that you establish reporting requirements within hospice programs regarding

physician-assisted suicide. In doing so, please consider monitoring physician-assisted suicide practices for the following:

· Discrimination against individuals with disabilities, older adults, and other vulnerable populations;

· Proper disposal of unused medication and prevention of drug diversion;

· Insurance denials of life-sustaining medical care that offer to cover physician-assisted suicide drugs instead;

· Drug complications;

· Consistency of drugs prescribed “off-label” for use in physician-assisted suicide;

· Compliance with federal restrictions on using funds, directly or indirectly, for health care items or services for physician-assisted suicide.

As bipartisan, bicameral Members of Congress who are committed to the health and safety of hospice patients, especially those in vulnerable populations, we are grateful to see HHS and CMS consider how physician-assisted suicide practices may pose discrimination and informed consent issues. We urge HHS and CMS to establish reporting requirements to monitor physician-assisted suicide for discriminatory practices and oversee compliance with federal funding restrictions within hospice programs. All hospice patients—regardless of disability, age or financial means—deserve compassionate end-of-life care that is free of coercion and discrimination.

Sincerely,

###",1,2026-07-10T08:20:04Z,2026-07-10T08:21:18Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-applauds-vance-air-force-bases-selection-as-home-for-new-usaf-training-system,Rep. Lucas Applauds Vance Air Force Base’s Selection as Home for New USAF Training System,2026-07-08,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) applauded the announcement of Vance Air Force Base (AFB) as the fourth T-7A Main Operating Base. The Air Force will replace T-38C aircraft at Vance AFB with T-7A deliveries.

The Department of the Air Force (DAF) will support all aspects of the T-7A recapitalization, including the construction and upgrades to operations, support, and maintenance facilities to support pilot training and aircraft operation and maintenance. In aircraft alone, this decision represents an investment of up to $2 billion at Vance AFB.

“I’m pleased to see Vance Air Force Base’s selection as home for the new T-7A, which is an investment into the community of Enid,” said Representative Lucas. “With the largest military operating area, cheapest pilot training pipeline cost, and a fourth runway, Vance Air Force Base is a seamless partner for the Air Force to integrate the T-7A. I thank our community that has worked for decades at the local, state, and federal level of government to ensure that Vance Air Force Base is best equipped to best support the next generation of USAF pilots and their loved ones.”

“We very much appreciate being selected as the premier location for the maximum deployment of the new T-7A aircraft,” said Michael Cooper, Chairman of the Vance Development Authority. “Due to our excellent community and base relationship, we continue to be successful in our efforts to enhance the base, bringing support from all levels to assist with increasing mission capabilities. With this decision and new personnel it brings to Vance AFB, Enid will need to continue our efforts to develop more affordable available homes and expand our efforts to create water resiliency and alternative energy options for the base.”

“I was very pleased to learn that Vance AFB will be receiving the T-7A,” said David Mason, Mayor of Enid, OK. “I think this shows the trust and relationship the Air Force has for Enid and the relationship Enid has for Vance and its continued mission to train the best pilots in the Air Force. Our community will continue to diligently work towards providing all the Infrastructure and Quality of life needs for Vance AFB to increase and enhance its mission capabilities. I’m proud to live in Enid, home of Vance AFB.”

Background:

The U.S. Air Force T-7A Recapitalization Program replaces the aging T-38C fleet with a modern advanced trainer designed to better prepare pilots for 4th-, 5th-, and future 6th-generation aircraft. It fields a new training system that integrates the T-7A aircraft with advanced simulators, ground-based training, and updated infrastructure across key pilot training bases. The decision is intended to provide the Air Force with operational flexibility, and inclusion of this alternative in this EIS provides analysis to evaluate future capacity needs.

###",1,2026-07-09T08:24:13Z,2026-07-09T08:26:05Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-walberg-lead-amicus-brief-defending-religious-liberty-in-supreme-court-school-choice-case/,"Lankford, Walberg Lead Amicus Brief Defending Religious Liberty in Supreme Court School Choice Case",2026-07-07,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and House Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) led 43 Members of Congress–35 Representatives and eight Senators–in filing an amicus brief in St. Mary Catholic Parish in Littleton, CO, et al. v. Lisa Roy, et al., a case the US Supreme Court will hear during its October 2026 Term.

The brief urges the Court to protect the constitutional rights of faith-based schools participating in school choice programs and warns that allowing the 10th Circuit’s decision to stand could undermine Congress’s tax credit scholarship program established under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

“In Oklahoma, we believe parents know what’s best for their kids, including what school fits their family’s faith,” said Lankford. “Colorado decided Catholic preschools didn’t get the same shot as everyone else, just because of their beliefs. That’s not religious liberty, that’s discrimination. I’m proud to join this brief and ask the Court to protect every family’s right to choose a school that reflects who they are.”

“Every family deserves the freedom to choose the school that’s right for their child, including a faith-based school,” said Walberg. “When parents have more educational options, students have a better chance to learn in an environment where they can thrive. That’s exactly what Congress worked to expand through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. States shouldn’t be able to shut faith-based schools out of school choice programs. That’s not religious liberty, and it’s not what the Constitution requires. We urge the Supreme Court to reverse the 10th Circuit’s decision.”

Background

Colorado’s universal preschool program gives families funding to send their children to the public or private preschool of their choice. But while the state made exceptions for some secular schools, it excluded Catholic preschools from participating because those schools ask families to support Catholic teachings on sex and gender.

In September 2025, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Colorado could exclude Catholic preschools from its universal preschool program. The Supreme Court agreed to hear the case next term.

The Members’ brief argues that if the 10th Circuit’s decision is allowed to stand, states could adopt similar policies that effectively exclude faith-based schools from participating in the federal tax credit scholarship program established under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which Congress enacted in 2025, undermining the religious freedom protected by the First Amendment.

Joining Lankford and Walberg are US Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jim Justice (R-WV), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Pete Ricketts (R-NE); and Representatives Robert B. Aderholt (R-AL-04), Rick W. Allen (R-GA-12), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA-05), Aaron Bean (R-FL-04), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05), Sheri Biggs (R-SC-03), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), Jeff Crank (R-CO-05), Byron Donalds (R-FL-19), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), Randy Fine (R-FL-06), Virginia Foxx (R-NC-05), H. Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09), Glenn Grothman (R-WI-06), Mark Harris (R-NC-08), Clay Higgins (R-LA-03), Julia Letlow (R-LA-05), John McGuire (R-VA-05), Mark Messmer (R-IN-08), Mary Miller (R-IL-15), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Riley M. Moore (R-WV-02), Andy Ogles (R-TN-05), Bob Onder (R-MO-03), Burgess Owens (R-UT-04), August Pfluger (R-TX-11), John Rose (R-TN-06), Michael A. Rulli (R-OH-06), John Rutherford (R-FL-05), Adrian Smith (R-NE-03), Chris Smith (R-NJ-04), Daniel Webster (R-FL-11), and Joe Wilson (R-SC-02).

You can find the full text of the brief HERE.

###",1,2026-07-08T07:27:19Z,2026-07-08T07:28:28Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-hosts-house-financial-services-task-force-field-hearing-in-okc,Rep. Lucas Hosts House Financial Services Task Force Field Hearing in OKC,2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"The hearing focused on the structure of the Federal Reserve System

Oklahoma City, OK – Recently, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), Chairman of the House Financial Services Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, hosted a field hearing in Oklahoma City discussing the importance of the federated structure of the Federal Reserve system with the Reserve Banks providing geographic and industrial expertise.

“It was a great day in Oklahoma City hosting several respected witnesses and hearing their perspective on the importance of our Federal Reserve structure,” said Representative Lucas. “The private-public partnership Reserve Banks have with our central bank serves as a check against the federal government dominating our monetary system. Our nation has many differing viewpoints, and our central bank is at its best when it reflects a comprehensive perspective of economic conditions. I thank the witnesses and my fellow colleagues for their time in my home state, and I look forward to continuing this discussion during this critical time.”

The witnesses included:

Mr. Thomas Hoenig – Distinguished Senior Fellow, Mercatus Center at George Mason University

Ms. Ester George – Former President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Mr. Gary Kelly – Deputy Chair, Board of Directors, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

Mr. Benjamin Keen – Associate Professor of Economics, University of Oklahoma

Click here to watch Rep. Lucas’s opening remarks.

Click here to watch the Federal Reserve’s impact on agriculture economy in the heartland.

Click here to watch the Beige Book’s impact on bringing regional perspectives to the Federal Reserve.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-implores-colleagues-to-support-the-emergency-conservation-program-improvement-act,Rep. Lucas Implores Colleagues to Support the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act,2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Yesterday, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) delivered remarks on the House floor supporting landowners facing natural disaster damages by imploring his colleagues to vote in support of the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S.629, the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act, introduced by Senator Fischer of Nebraska.

The Emergency Conservation Program and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program are two critical cost-share programs available to landowners following a natural disaster. Given the natural disasters we’ve witnessed, including wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding, these programs have remained critically important.

Wildfires continue to present significant challenges, especially in the West, due to their increasing intensity and the extensive number of acres burned each year. Forest managers and wildfire experts have been predicting that 2026 will be a particularly challenging fire year. So far this year, we have already witnessed approximately 2.7 million acres burned in over 34,000 fires, and it is only June.

Recently, devastating wildfires have occurred on the plains of Nebraska, Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas, instead of just being confined to the forests and mountains of the West. This year, we saw approximately 300,000 acres burn after multiple wildfires ignited in Oklahoma and Kansas this past February.

In addition, due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, we have observed significant needs for emergency assistance resulting from the devastation in southeastern states, including the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. Natural disasters have inflicted great damage on private property across the country at no fault of the landowners.

Under ECP, landowners can receive both technical and financial assistance for repairs and restoration of land adversely affected by natural disasters, including floods, hurricanes, wildfires, and droughts. Additionally, EFRP provides financial assistance to non-industrial private forestland owners to support recovery efforts following similar natural disasters.

While these programs are critical, participants have reported ongoing issues with payment delays and insufficient upfront assistance to cover the costs of urgent conservation needs. To address this issue, S.629 allows for advanced payments of up to 75% of the total project cost for both programs, clarifies eligibility for cost-share payments, and allows for a longer period for the use of ECP payments.

I support this legislation and encourage my colleagues to vote favorably.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/ahead-of-americas-250th-birthday-lankford-celebrates-the-american-experiment/,"Ahead of America’s 250th Birthday, Lankford Celebrates the American Experiment",2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) is marking America’s 250th birthday by telling the story of our founding, honoring the sacrifices that built the nation, and reminding Oklahomans that the American experiment in freedom is still alive today.

Ahead of the semiquincentennial, Lankford launched a video series from the halls of the US Capitol, sharing the moments and people behind the Declaration of Independence. Lankford told the story of June 11, 1776, the day Thomas Jefferson sat down to write the Declaration, the life of John Peter Muhlenberg, the pastor who carried his faith from the pulpit into battle, and June 28, 1776, when Jefferson and the Committee of Five presented their draft to the Continental Congress. The series continues through the Fourth of July weekend with the story of Benjamin Franklin.

Lankford also recorded a video tribute celebrating America’s freedom of faith, calling it a radical concept 250 years ago that no one thought would work, but one that Americans make work every day. Earlier this summer, he joined Americans from across the country at the Rededicate 250 prayer gathering on the National Mall. Last week, he penned a column in the Washington Examiner reflecting on 250 years of the Declaration’s promise that all men are created equal and calling on the nation to extend that promise to the unborn.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-lankford-celebrates-launch-of-prison-fellowship-academy-at-fci-el-reno-marking-years-of-work-to-expand-faith-based-rehabilitation-in-federal-prisons/,"ICYMI: Lankford Celebrates Launch of Prison Fellowship Academy at FCI El Reno, Marking Years of Work to Expand Faith-Based Rehabilitation in Federal Prisons",2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) recently celebrated the launch of the first federal Prison Fellowship Academy at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in El Reno, Oklahoma, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony held earlier this month. Prison Fellowship is the first nonprofit to have a program designated as an evidence-based recidivism reduction program under the First Step Act by the US Department of Justice’s Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). The designation marks a milestone in a decades-long effort by Lankford to ensure faith-based organizations have a seat at the table in federal rehabilitation efforts.

“This ribbon-cutting ceremony represents a breakthrough for religious liberty behind bars and a victory for all who affirm the principles of human dignity, accountability and fairness, both inside prison and upon reentry,” said Lankford.

“This partnership with the BOP not only represents major progress in bringing transformational programming to more people in federal prisons, but it also highlights the belief that no person is beyond redemption,” said Heather Rice-Minus, Prison Fellowship president and CEO. “The Prison Fellowship Academy is designed to help participants prepare for a successful future, both inside and outside prison walls. We are honored to work with the BOP to expand its impact nationwide.”

You can view Lankford’s remarks ahead of the ribbon-cutting ceremony HERE.

Background

For years, Senator Lankford has championed the role of faith-based organizations in federal prisons, fighting to ensure they have equal access to rehabilitation work and are not sidelined by federal bureaucracy. His efforts have been instrumental in building the legal and policy framework that made today’s announcement possible.

In 2018, Lankford voted in favor of the First Step Act, a landmark bipartisan legislation that expanded rehabilitative programming in federal prisons and created the framework for faith-based organizations like Prison Fellowship to partner with the BOP.

Lankford successfully amended the First Step Act to explicitly allow faith-based groups to provide job training, social development, and family programming on equal footing with non-faith-based organizations. Prior to this amendment, the Bureau of Prisons had largely shut faith-based groups out of recidivism reduction work in federal facilities. That change directly paved the way for Prison Fellowship’s historic designation as the first nonprofit evidence-based recidivism reduction program under the First Step Act.

Lankford co-authored the bipartisan MERCY Act with Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), which was incorporated into the First Step Act and limits the use of solitary confinement for juveniles in federal custody, ensuring young people retain access to rehabilitative and educational programming while incarcerated.

Lankford is a cosponsor of the Safer Supervision Act, bipartisan legislation supported by Prison Fellowship that modernizes federal supervised release by tailoring conditions to individual circumstances and reducing barriers to successful reentry.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/fema-announces-over-12-3-million-in-disaster-recovery-grants-to-oklahoma-communities/,FEMA Announces Over $12.3 Million in Disaster Recovery Grants to Oklahoma Communities,2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded four Public Assistance grants to Oklahoma communities totaling more than $12.3 million. The grants will reimburse local entities for the cost of repairs to electrical infrastructure, roads, and public buildings damaged by severe storms, tornadoes, and winter weather.

“From restoring power in Northwestern Oklahoma to rebuilding county roads and public buildings in Eastern Oklahoma, these FEMA awards will help Oklahoma communities recover from the tornadoes, ice storms, and flooding that impacted our state,” said Lankford. “We have stayed in close contact with FEMA leadership to help finalize these grants, and I’m glad to see these federal resources supporting the agencies and local governments that stepped up to respond when Oklahomans needed them most.”

In addition to public assistance grants, FEMA also announced more than one million dollars in fire management assistance grants awarded to the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to partially reimburse firefighting costs from five 2025 wildfires.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-one-year-later-the-working-families-tax-cuts-are-delivering-for-oklahomans/,"Lankford: One Year Later, the Working Families Tax Cuts Are Delivering for Oklahomans",2026-07-01,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK —US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today marked one year since the Senate passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, reflecting on the law’s impact on Oklahoma families, businesses, and communities.

“One year later, we’re seeing the Working Families Tax Cuts Act deliver real results for Oklahomans,” said Lankford. “Families are keeping more of what they earn, businesses have the certainty to invest and create jobs, energy producers are no longer burdened by an unfair tax penalty, and more Americans are able to support the charities and houses of worship that strengthen their communities. These policies are strengthening Oklahoma’s economy and supporting the people who make our state strong. We’re already seeing these policies make a real difference for families, strengthen our economy, secure our border, support American energy, and give businesses the confidence to invest and grow.”

Background

One year ago today, the Senate passed the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, preventing the largest tax hike in American history while delivering tax relief, securing the border, strengthening Medicaid program integrity, rebuilding the military, and cutting out-of-control spending.

Lankford secured several key priorities in the legislation, including authoring the permanent full, immediate expensing provision, allowing businesses to deduct the full cost of equipment and technology up front; securing the charitable deduction for non-itemizers, allowing couples to deduct up to $2,000 in donations; and leading the repeal of the Biden administration’s tax penalty on oil and gas producers by restoring key investment deductions.

For Oklahoma, the legislation prevented an average $2,013 tax increase for families, protected more than 233,000 small businesses from higher taxes, preserved the child tax credit for nearly 449,000 households, and maintained the standard deduction for more than 1.5 million Oklahoma families.

Lankford recently visited B&H Construction to hear firsthand how the permanent full expensing provision he authored is helping Oklahoma businesses invest and grow. You can watch the videoHERE and download itHERE.

For a full breakdown of the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, including how it helps families, seniors, farmers and ranchers, energy producers, small businesses, strengthens our national defense, and secures the border, you can find more information HERE and HERE.

###",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-statement-on-supreme-court-birthright-citizenship-decision/,Lankford Statement on Supreme Court Birthright Citizenship Decision,2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK —US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today issued the following statement after the US Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. Barbara involving birthright citizenship.

“Americans are proud of our country, and we are committed to upholding our laws. Oklahomans are rightly frustrated when someone breaks into our country to force us to give their children American citizenship. Other than salvation, American citizenship is the greatest gift on Earth, and it should never be obtained through fraud or illegal actions.

“This same court, four years ago, passed the Dobbs decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which I strongly supported, but today I do not agree with the 5-4 split decision to give American citizenship to individuals whose families intentionally violated the law. The divided decision in the court reminds us again of the division in our nation. However, Americans honor our courts even when we disagree.

“President Trump has done extraordinary work to keep our borders safe and secure, but we need to pass stronger laws that will prevent a future administration from opening the border again. We need to make it unconstitutional to obtain citizenship through fraud or illegal actions.”

Background

Following today’s Supreme Court decisions, Lankford joined News 9 to discuss the rulings. Watch the interview HERE or download the video HERE .

###",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-in-washington-examiner-two-hundred-fifty-years-of-all-men-created-equal-when-will-the-unborn-count/,Lankford in Washington Examiner: “Two hundred fifty years of ‘all men created equal’ — When will the unborn count?”,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK —US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) recently penned an op-ed in the Washington Examiner reflecting on America’s 250th anniversary and the fourth anniversary of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision. You can read the full piece below or in the Washington Examiner HERE.

Two hundred fifty years of ‘all men created equal’ — When will the unborn count?

By: James Lankford

Two hundred fifty years ago, a small group of colonists challenged the most powerful empire on Earth. They had no standing army, no navy, and no certainty of survival. What they had was conviction. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

That sentence set a standard for this nation we have spent two and a half centuries trying to live up to. The semiquincentennial gives us a chance to reflect on our standard again and ask the honest question: Are we living up to it?

At the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the promise that all men are created equal did not yet reach everyone in this country. We have had to confront that gap more than once. Two hundred years ago, we enslaved people because of the color of their skin. One hundred and eight years ago, my mother, my wife, and my daughters could not vote. Eighty-five years ago, we interned Japanese American families because we were afraid of them. In each case, we eventually recognized our wrong and corrected it, though our failure had a real cost to the people who lived through it.

Our Constitution states its purpose in its opening lines: to form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity. Posterity means future generations, Americans not yet born. The word “posterity” carries particular weight.

I believe future generations will look back at this era and ask how this generation justified ending the lives of unborn children simply because they were inconvenient.

Last week marked four years since the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision overturned Roe v. Wade. Since 1973, more than 60 million unborn children have lost their lives to abortion in this country. Dobbs did not settle the question of abortion. It returned that question “to the people and their elected representatives,” where it belongs. We need to still resolve as a people if we believe that all children are precious and valuable or if certain children are disposable and worthless.

As we celebrate 250 years of America and mark four years since Dobbs, we have an opportunity to return to our first principles. Our founding documents were never meant to be obstacles to progress. They are a framework for pursuing justice, one that recognizes the equal dignity of every human being, born and unborn.

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/four-years-after-dobbs-lankford-leads-senate-floor-effort-to-protect-life-as-democrats-block-every-bill/,"Four Years After Dobbs, Lankford Leads Senate Floor Effort to Protect Life as Democrats Block Every Bill",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), chair of the Senate Values Action Team, led his colleagues on the floor this week on the fourth anniversary of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision to ask for unanimous consent to pass commonsense pro-life, pro-family legislation, from protecting unborn children with Down syndrome to safeguarding the conscience rights of doctors and nurses who refuse to perform abortions. Senate Democrats objected to every single bill.

Among the bills raised, Lankford called up his own Conscience Protection Act, legislation that ensures no doctor, nurse, or health care provider can be forced to perform an abortion against their religious beliefs or moral convictions and gives them the legal standing to defend those rights if their employer or the government tries to strip them away.

“Today I rise to be able to mark the fourth anniversary of the Dobbs decision, a decision that overturned Roe v. Wade and returned the issue of abortion, and when life begins and who we’re going to be as a people on this issue of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, back to the elected representatives from states and to the people,” said Lankford on the Senate floor. “Today we’re remembering 60 million children who died under the 49-year time period under Roe v. Wade. And the conversation that’s still happening all over the country. We the people are still having a dialog about the value of every human person and whether life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness still applies to everyone.”

“I’m one of those crazy people that actually believe that children are valuable. All of them. And I know it’s much maligned in our culture currently, and it’s very vogue to be able to say, ‘some children are valuable and some children are disposable, and those children that are disposable, we shouldn’t even discuss.’ But honestly, I think we should continue the conversation, the dialog that’s been going on for 250 years to determine does life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness apply to all of us. Are all people created equal, or are some people more equal than others? Just because a child cannot defend themself, just because a child doesn’t weigh very much yet, doesn’t mean it’s not a child. Science would say that life begins at conception when the cell division happens,” Lankford continued on the floor. “Every single cell in the woman’s body has the exact same DNA except when she’s pregnant. Then there are certain cells in the womb that have different DNA. Do you know why? Because it’s a different person. And there’s cell division happening in the woman’s body because she’s alive, and there’s cell division happening in that child’s body because so are they. And they’re uniquely different, God created person. They’re not inconvenient. They’re a child.”

Lankford was joined on the floor by his colleagues in raising the following legislation:

Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT): Protecting Individuals with Down Syndrome Act

Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA): Protect Funding for Women’s Health Care Act

Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC): Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance Act

Sen. Ashley Moody (R-FL): Pregnant Students’ Rights Act

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN): Title X Abortion Provider Prohibition Act

Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS): SAVE Moms and Babies Act of 2026

You can watch Lankford’s full remarks on the Senate floor HERE and download his remarks HERE.

Background

Lankford has spent his entire Senate career fighting for life, earning an “A+” rating from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America along the way. He has pushed to protect babies born alive after botched abortions, ban late-term dismemberment procedures, stop taxpayer dollars from flowing to Planned Parenthood, and ensure doctors and nurses are never forced to participate in abortions against their beliefs. This is the third time he has led a Dobbs anniversary floor effort, and the third time Democrats have blocked every bill he and his colleagues brought forward.

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-expand-affordability-our-nations-housing-market,Cole Votes to Expand Affordability in Our Nation’s Housing Market,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2026 | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act:

“Thanks to Bidenflation and far-Left overspending, housing costs in this country have soared over the years. At the same time, unnecessary red tape has limited our housing supply, allowing demand to outpace it,” said Congressman Cole. “I voted in favor of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act tonight to address these exact housing crises. This legislation will expand the housing supply of all types of homes, including single-family, multifamily, apartment complexes, and other factory-built housing. Additionally, it will reduce burdensome regulatory barriers to new home construction, modernize HUD programs, and allow banks to deploy funding more freely. At the end of the day, as the Congressman for Oklahomans in the Fourth District, I aim to serve as a representative for homeowners, renters, and my community. In supporting the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act tonight, I did just that, as this bill will lead to more affordable choices for Oklahomans and all Americans.”

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-budd-lead-bill-to-codify-trump-admin-policy-eliminating-us-foreign-aid-funding-for-abortion-dei-gender-ideology/,"Lankford, Budd Lead Bill to Codify Trump Admin Policy Eliminating US Foreign Aid Funding for Abortion, DEI & Gender Ideology",2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Ted Budd (R-NC) introduced the Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance Act today to codify the Trump Administration’s Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance (PHFFA) Policy. This legislation would reinstate and expand Mexico City Policy by preventing US foreign assistance from being used to fund abortion or the promotion of abortion, discriminatory equity ideology, and radical gender ideology.

“American taxpayers should never be forced to fund abortions or radical gender ideology, whether in the United States or abroad,” said Lankford. “I’ve consistently highlighted this kind of wasteful spending, and this bill codifies the Trump administration’s Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance policy, so these protections endure beyond any single administration. US foreign assistance should reflect American values, not undermine them.”

“US foreign assistance programs have been exploited as a loophole to promote far-left, radical ideology on the dime of American taxpayers for far too long. Future administrations must not be permitted to spend millions of taxpayer dollars on programs funding abortion, DEI, and gender ideology abroad. Our country’s foreign assistance priorities should benefit our national security and strengthen our relationship with allies and partners—not advance a politically driven checklist of radical agenda items,” said Budd.

US Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Roger Wicker (R-MS), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Jim Justice (R-WV) joined Lankford and Budd in introducing the legislation.

The Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance Act is supported by Susan B. Anthony (SBA) Pro-Life America, Concerned Women for America (CWA), National Right to Life, Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC), Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), Eagle Forum, and American Principles Project (APP).

You can read the full bill text HERE.

Background

Under PHFFA (Protecting Life in Foreign Assistance, Combating Gender Ideology in Foreign Assistance, Combating Discriminatory Equity Ideology in Foreign Assistance), the Trump Administration has already identified many US foreign assistance programs, paid for with taxpayer dollars, that are funding abortion, DEI, and gender ideology through global health, humanitarian, and development aid. These so-called “democracy promotion activities” undermine American values and weaken the perception of America abroad.

Illegal use of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to pay for abortions in Mozambique.

Funding for the New Alliance for Global Equality to advance “global LGBTQI+ awareness.”

Funding to promote “democracy” for LGBTQI+ populations in the Western Balkans.

Funding to an organization in Guatemala to, among other things, “strengthen trans-led organizations to deliver gender-affirming health care.”

The Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance Act would close loopholes in previous iterations of the Mexico City Policy by:

Expanding Covered Entities: Covers US NGOs, international organizations, and foreign governments and parastatals in addition to foreign NGOs.

Expanding Covered Activities: Covers the promotion of DEI and gender ideology in addition to abortion and the promotion of abortion.

Expanding Covered Foreign Assistance: Covers most non-military foreign assistance, not just global health assistance.

Providing for a Waiver: Permits the Secretary of State to waive provisions of this bill in certain circumstances.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-applauds-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-housing-supply-and-lower-costs/,Lankford Applauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Expand Housing Supply and Lower Costs,2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Senate Republican Conference Vice Chair today released the following statement after the Senate passed the bipartisan, bicameral21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, legislation aimed at increasing housing supply, cutting federal red tape, and lowering housing costs for American families.

“The dream of homeownership is slipping further out of reach for too many Oklahomans,” said Lankford. “Home prices are at an all-time high, and Washington’s red tape has made it worse by making it harder and more expensive to build. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a straightforward solution: cut the federal bureaucracy that is slowing down construction, free up more land to build on, and bring costs down without adding a dime to the deficit. Oklahomans do not need Washington to spend more money; they need Washington to get out of the way.”

You can read the full bill text HERE, and a section-by-section HERE.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-on-senate-floor-ahead-of-fathers-day-if-dads-back-away-from-their-families-the-nation-gets-weaker/,"Lankford on Senate Floor Ahead of Father’s Day: “If Dads Back Away From Their Families, The Nation Gets Weaker”",2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of Father’s Day, making the case that fatherlessness is at the root of America’s biggest social crises and that engaged dads are the most powerful force for a stronger nation.

“Healthy families make healthy communities make a healthy nation,” said Lankford on the floor. “If dads back away from their families, families get weaker, communities get weaker, the nation gets weaker. If dads are engaged with their kids and with their families, the nation gets stronger. Communities get stronger.”

While sounding the alarm on fatherlessness, Lankford also pointed to a promising cultural shift: today’s dads are three times more likely to spend time with their kids than fathers in the 1960s. He called on that momentum to continue, and outlined several policy efforts to back it up, including fixing marriage penalties in the tax code and Trump administration actions that pull passports from dads who skip out on child support and withhold tax refunds from those who fall behind on payments.

There is no vote that we will take in this body today that will make the nation stronger than just dads loving their kids, and spending time with them, and helping them know how to be able to walk with God, live a patriotic life, and to serve their family and community,” Lankford concluded. “There is no vote that will help our nation more than that.”

You can watch his full remarks on the Senate floor HERE, and can download it HERE.

Background

Lankford has long championed faith, family, and pro-life policy throughout his tenure in the Senate. He has fought to eliminate marriage penalties in the tax code, introduced legislation to extend child support to unborn children, and has been recognized as the Senate’s leading pro-life voice. Americans looking for fatherhood resources can visit fatherhood.gov and fatherhood.org.

###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-lankford-ernst-led-bipartisan-bill-to-stop-secret-spending/,"Senate Unanimously Passes Lankford, Ernst-led Bipartisan Bill to Stop Secret Spending",2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — Recently, the US Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan bill authored by Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Gary Peters (D-MI), requiring public disclosure of tens of billions of dollars in secret spending deals.

Current law requires government expenditures to be listed on the public website USAspending.gov, so Americans can see who is receiving their tax dollars, along with details about where, why, and how the money is being spent. Bureaucrats have been circumventing the law by withholding thousands of spending arrangements, known as Other Transactions Agreements (OTAs). Over the past two years, the Pentagon alone has awarded $25.5 billion worth of OTAs and committed to spending another $44 billion on the agreements.

“You can’t cut waste you can’t see,” said Lankford. “The Stop Secret Spending Act shines a light on billions of dollars in government spending that has been deliberately kept from taxpayers. Transparency is the first step toward accountability, and accountability is how we stop Washington from wasting the money Americans work hard to earn.”

“Bureaucrats have been playing hide and seek with tax dollars for far too long,” said Ernst. “It’s time to end the games and stop the secret spending. The American people will now have a full picture of how Washington spends their money, so we can identify and cut waste and stop fraud and abuse.”

“This commonsense legislation will increase transparency around how the federal government is using taxpayer resources and will cut down on waste, fraud, and abuse,” said Peters. “Americans deserve to know how their hard-earned taxpayer dollars are being spent, and I’m pleased to see this bipartisan bill is one step closer to becoming law.”

Background

The Stop Secret Spending Act requires OTAs to be disclosed in the same manner as grants, contracts, loans, and other government expenditures. The bill also requires a summary of the total amount of spending that is not publicly disclosed, along with a justification, so taxpayers are provided with a more complete accounting of Washington’s $7.4 trillion annual budget.

This effort builds on Lankford’s long-running push for federal spending transparency through the Taxpayers Right-to-Know Act, which he has championed since 2011. That law directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to compile a public inventory of every federal program, including its cost and performance, so taxpayers and Congress can identify duplication, inefficiency, and waste government-wide.

###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-highlights-more-than-2-8-million-in-fema-assistance-for-oklahoma/,Lankford Highlights More Than $2.8 Million in FEMA Assistance for Oklahoma,2026-06-10,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today highlighted $2.8 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance awarded to Oklahoma to support recovery efforts following severe storms, tornadoes, flooding, and wildfires across the state.

“From repairing damaged public buildings to reimbursing emergency protective measures and wildfire suppression costs, these FEMA awards will help Oklahoma communities recover from the tornadoes, severe weather, and wildfires that impacted our state,” said Lankford. “We have stayed in contact with FEMA leadership to get these grants finalized. I’m glad to see these federal resources supporting the agencies and local governments that responded when Oklahomans needed them most.”

The federal funding will help Oklahoma communities recover and respond to recent disasters through the following projects:

$848,284 to the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services for building exterior and interior repair or replacement as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding.

$614,620 to the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services for emergency protective measures to lessen the immediate threat to public health, safety, and property as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding.

$147,121 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the Euchee Creek Fire.

$407,619 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the 840 Road Fire.

$502,573 to Roger Mills County for firefighting activities associated with the 840 Road Fire.

$105,647 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the Little Salt Creek Fire.

$182,767 to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry for firefighting activities associated with the 328 Fire.

###",1,2026-06-11T06:38:38Z,2026-06-11T06:41:07Z
https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4185,Hern Votes to Fund ICE and CBP,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) today voted in support of the second reconciliation package to fully fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Following his vote, Rep. Hern said:

“Let’s remember why we had to pass a second reconciliation package. It’s because Congressional Democrats shut down the government, then refused to fund DHS, and have blocked funding for ICE and CBP for the past 115 days. House and Senate Democrats are willing to put our national security at risk to pander to their radical base, leaving it to Republicans alone to fund our border security. President Trump has given us secure borders we cannot afford to return to the Left’s open border policies. I’m proud to vote in support of this critical funding for border security so our Border Patrol and immigration agents have the resources they need to deport illegal immigrants, secure the border, and keep our communities safe.”

###",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bice-supports-reconciliation-bill-fully-fund-dhs,Rep. Bice Supports Reconciliation Bill to Fully Fund DHS,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House passed the Senate’s reconciliation bill which would fully fund Customs and Border Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through the end of President Trump’s Administration. This legislation heads to the White House to be signed into law.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“Under the Biden Administration, more than 10 million illegal immigrants crossed our southern border. This included drug smugglers, human traffickers, criminal organizations, and even terrorists on the FBI watchlist. After walking away on a negotiated appropriations package to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security, Democrats have repeatedly dug their heels in, playing political games with DHS funding. Today’s legislation ensures that those who protect our southern border can not be held hostage again. This legislation was long overdue. Under my friend and fellow Oklahoman, Secretary Mullin, I know the department will continue to ensure our border is closed, ultimately protecting our homeland.""

Congresswoman Bice spoke on the floor regarding this legislation and her remarks can be found here.

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-ok-04-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners,Cole Announces OK-04 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Oklahoma – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Oklahoma’s Fourth District:

Katelyn Estes of Stratford, Oklahoma has been named the first-place winner. Estes attends Stratford High School and studies art under her teacher, Shea Meyer. For the Congressional Art Competition, Estes submitted artwork titled “Spirit of the Plains,” which is a charcoal piece of a bison head. The art will be brought to Washington, D.C. and hang in the United States Capitol Building for an entire year.

“I am excited to congratulate Katelyn on being selected as the Fourth District’s overall winner for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition,” said Congressman Cole. “Her bison piece makes it clear just how talented she is. It is truly beautiful and I know Katelyn has a bright future ahead of her.”

When asked about her artwork, Estes said, “My inspiration this year was a Bison. This was my first time using charcoal for a drawing. I’m surprised by how much fun I had experimenting with this medium and by how well it turned out for my first time. Our local vet is also a bison ranch, and I think it’s super cool that I live only five miles away from it. The one that I chose to draw was from there. I wanted this drawing to showcase the overlooked beauty of the bison that I, and many other people, drive past every day. My favorite part to draw was definitely the eye; it’s what gives the piece a soul.”

""I am so proud of Katelyn. She has worked so hard and just keeps getting better. She loves creating and her work shows it. She has had a great senior year, and winning this great honor just caps off an outstanding year,"" said Meyer, Stratford High School Art Teacher.

In addition to naming Katelyn the winner, two runner-up winners were named through a “People’s Choice” contest online, which was conducted through Congressman Cole’s social media channels. Out of the hundreds of votes cast, artwork by Jessica Gibson and Wren Hobbs received the most. Both students’ artwork will be displayed in Congressman Cole’s Oklahoma office for the next year.

“Each year that we hold the Congressional Art Competition, I am so impressed by the many skilled high school students from across the Fourth District. While only one piece can be chosen to make its way to D.C., I think it is important to recognize the other talented students by holding the People’s Choice competition, as so many of the pieces are so beautiful. Therefore, I am thrilled to name Jessica and Wren as this year’s second and third-place winners. I can’t wait to have their art hanging in my office this year,” said Congressman Cole.

Jessica Gibson, the second-place winner, resides in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and attends Classen School of Advanced Studies High School at Northeast, where she studies art under her teacher, Amber Crump. For the contest, she submitted a piece titled “Myriad in Bloom,” which is an acrylic painting of downtown Oklahoma City at the myriad botanical gardens.

When asked about her inspiration for her artwork, Gibson said, “I decided to paint downtown because it’s not what everyone thinks of when they think of Oklahoma. I wanted to highlight the growing metropolitan side of our state. I especially love the way it looks in spring with all the red buds and flowers blooming underneath our watercolor painted skies. America celebrates its 250th anniversary soon and I think downtown Oklahoma City is a beautiful representation of how far we’ve come in that time.”

""As Ms. Gibson's art teacher at Classen School for Advanced Studies H.S., it is no surprise that she does well competitively. Her dynamic usage of color and her ability to capture her visions for others to see set her apart as an aspiring young artist. She is driven and experimentary in her approach to creation. I am honored to have her in class and can not wait to see how she grows and develops her craft over the next couple of years. Thank you for extending this competition to young artists across your district. Art competitions such as this one help to keep arts & art programs valid in public schools.,” said Crump, Classen School for Advanced Studies Art Teacher.

Wren Hobbs of Norman, Oklahoma is the third-place winner. She attends Norman North High School, where she studies art under her teacher, Sheila Hunter. For the Congressional Art Competition, Hobbs submitted artwork titled “Still Home,” which is a pencil drawing of the endangered piping plover on a beach surrounded by trash.

“My piece is inspired by my passion for avian conservation and the importance of protecting bird populations. It is one of the pieces from my AP art portfolio,” said Hobbs.

"" It’s rare to have a student not only dedicated to their craft, but also to a cause. I’ve been lucky enough to know Wren all four of her years in high school, and during that time I’ve seen her grow as an artist and an advocate for animal conservation. She’s been an active participant in showing her art in contests/shows, and in leading our school’s environmental club. When you look at the line work in her drawings, you can see the attention to detail with her carefully curated colors - but also the accuracy of the animals and their environments. She takes the time to learn their history and struggles and uses her art to teach others. I’m so proud of what she’s achieved as not only an artist, but an educator in animal rights,” said Hunter, Norman North High School Art Teacher.

Background on the Congressional Art Competition:

Each spring, the Congressional Art Institute sponsors a nationwide competition for high school students with an interest in art and looking for an opportunity to showcase their creativity and talent.

This year, the first-place winner will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., including two Southwest Airlines tickets, to attend the awards ceremony.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-chickasaw-nation-governor-anoatubby-retirement,Cole Statement on Chickasaw Nation Governor Anoatubby Retirement,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement in response to Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby’s retirement announcement:

“For 39 years, Governor Bill Anoatubby has led my tribe, the Chickasaw Nation, with remarkable vision, a strategic hand, and unwavering dedication. His leadership has transformed not only the trajectory of the Nation, but the lives of the Chickasaw people.

“Economically, his tenure has been nothing short of historic and unprecedented. Through Governor Anoatubby’s steady leadership, the Chickasaw Nation did more than just achieve its goals of economic development and self-sufficiency – it surpassed them. Under his guidance, the tribe evolved from dependence on federal funding to one that is self-sufficient and prosperous on its own. Today, thanks to him, the Chickasaw Nation supports more than 22,000 jobs and contributes $3.7 billion annually to Oklahoma’s economy, including $1.2 billion in wages and benefits.

“However, Governor Anoatubby’s impact cannot be measured by just economics. Throughout his lengthy tenure, he also placed a significant emphasis on preserving and sharing the precious heritage of the Chickasaw Nation. Through initiatives such as the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities and the Chickasaw Cultural Center, he ensured that our history, language, arts, and culture would continue to inspire future generations.

“These achievements, on top of many others, make it unmistakably clear: Governor Bill Anoatubby is the most consequential Chickasaw Nation leader since the removal period. And his influence has extended past just the Chickasaw Nation. His leadership and impact are respected by every Oklahoman.

“For nearly four decades, Governor Anoatubby has embodied true commitment to the Chickasaw people and Oklahoma. The powerful combination of his leadership, vision, and generosity has allowed all of us in our state to shape a brighter future for ourselves and all those touched by the results of his leadership. On a personal level, I am fortunate to call Governor Anoatubby a mentor and a trusted friend.

“His retirement is an enormous loss for the Chickasaw Nation, all Indian Country, and the state of Oklahoma. However, he leaves the tribe stronger than he found it, as he hands it off to his very competent and bright son, Chris, the Lieutenant Governor. I have no doubt Chris will carry on his father’s legacy with wisdom, competence, and care, and I look forward to seeing everything the future holds for the Chickasaw Nation.

“In conclusion, to Governor Anoatubby, congratulations on a truly remarkable career and a lifetime of service. Thank you for your leadership, your vision, your friendship, and the legacy you leave behind. I wish you, Janice, and your entire family the best as you enter this next chapter,” said Congressman Cole.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-secure-america-act,Cole Statement on the Secure America Act,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after supporting the Secure America Act, which delivers long-term funding for ICE and Border Patrol personnel, immigration enforcement operations, and other critical homeland security priorities after repeated efforts by Senate Democrats to obstruct funding, trigger government shutdowns, and derail the regular appropriations process:

“Terrorists. Cartels. Human traffickers. Drug smugglers. Each day, ICE and Border Patrol agents and officers confront these threats head-on to keep America safe. It’s exactly why I have consistently voted to comprehensively resource these law enforcement professionals as they carry out their security missions. While the far-left hoped to eradicate funding for critical operations and weaken our border security apparatus, House Republicans have made clear that we will continue to support those who defend our homeland and keep our communities safe.

“I do not regret the objective of our actions today, but I am appalled by the complete failure of Senate Democrats that led us to this moment. Chuck Schumer and his radical caucus twice shut down the government, instigating chaos across the nation. Since then, they have continued to diminish Article I and forced the use of reconciliation. It’s wrong – and deliberately undermines the appropriations process.

“The Constitution entrusts Congress with the power of the purse. Yet, in great irony, the Senate has shown greater concern for protecting an internal rule than fulfilling its constitutional duty. The filibuster is nothing more than an institutional habit. It is neither mentioned nor sanctioned in our founding documents. I would remind my peers on the other side of the Rotunda that no chamber precedent is greater than the bedrock of our Republic. Members swear an oath to uphold the Constitution – not the filibuster.

“I thoroughly regret the erosion of Article I authority that Senate Democrats have instigated, and the price everyday Americans have been forced to pay as a result. I hope the months-long charade that led us to this moment serves as a reminder that no partisan fixation is worth shutting down the government, abandoning constitutional responsibilities, and forcing Congress into extraordinary measures simply to perform its most basic duties.

“I believe in the Constitution, the power of the purse, and completing the appropriations process. I also believe in keeping the homeland safe. The Senate may have abandoned proper governing, but I will not abandon those who stand watch over our borders and protect our communities.

“Our work, of course, doesn’t end here. As the Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations markups near completion, I am reminded that governing is a choice. The work I do, the votes I cast, and the actions I take will always be guided by one principle: fulfilling our obligations to the American people,” said Congressman Cole.

Background:

Funding the government is a constitutional imperative.

Senate Democrats initiated both the longest full and partial government shutdowns in U.S. history.

The House and Senate previously struck a bipartisan and bicameral deal to finalize all Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills.

The House acted expeditiously to pass these bills, marking historic progress for our appropriations process and progress to return to ‘regular order.’

After helping negotiate the deal, Senate Democrats altered it at the last minute, undermining DHS funding.

Shutting down DHS didn’t achieve immigration results or zero out resources for U.S. Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement as Democrats hoped.

In fact, the very reforms Democrats originally helped secure in the Fiscal Year 2026 bill, which included requiring the use of body-worn cameras, placing restrictions on immigration enforcement at sensitive locations like hospitals and schools, increasing congressional oversight, and requiring agents to wear visible officer identification while carrying out immigration enforcement activities, were lost since they rejected the bill.

Congressman Cole has consistently made it clear that government shutdowns are reckless and harmful.

Due to the inability of Senate Democrats to uphold their full FY26 negotiated commitments, Congress was forced to pursue reconciliation to fully fund critical homeland security operations.

The Secure America Act will provide long-term funding for ICE and Border Patrol and border security enforcement operations through Fiscal Year 2029.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-suozzi-introduce-bipartisan-social-security-commission-act,"Cole, Suozzi Introduce Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act",2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – This week, Representative Tom Cole (OK-04) and Representative Tom Suozzi (NY-03) introduced the Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act, which Rep. Cole has led or co-led for seven Congresses now. This legislation addresses the long-term solvency of Social Security by creating a bipartisan, independent commission made up of thirteen members appointed by the President and Congressional leaders in both parties.

The Social Security and Medicare Boards of Trustees are expected to release their 2026 Annual Report shortly. That report will project the year during which Social Security’s trust funds will be exhausted and the extent of the automatic, across-the-board benefit cut that would follow. Reps. Cole and Suozzi’s bill would combat this looming issue and ensure that Social Security is fully funded for decades to come.

After introducing the legislation, Reps. Cole and Suozzi released the following statements:

“I am going to tell you the truth that many of my fellow politicians in Washington refuse to acknowledge: the solvency of Social Security is at a critical point, and millions of Americans who have paid into this program throughout their working lives may not receive the money they deserve. Therefore, doing nothing on Social Security is not an option,” said Rep. Cole. “As a Congress, we must act. The Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act will allow us to find commonsense solutions to ensure the long-term survival of this program. I am proud to join Representative Suozzi in the reintroduction of this important legislation, as Social Security is a promise we have made to American seniors that we must keep.”

“Social Security is a promise we make to our seniors, and we cannot afford to wait until the program reaches insolvency to act. Everyone knows Social Security faces serious long-term challenges, but too often Washington chooses to ignore them,” said Rep. Suozzi. “We owe it to current and future retirees to set partisan politics aside and develop responsible solutions that protect and strengthen the program. This bipartisan commission would be required to produce a proposal to address social security insolvency within one year. It is an important and urgent step toward getting the job done.”

Background:

Modeled after the 1983 Social Security Commission, H.R. 9187 would create a bicameral and bipartisan commission entrusted with the task of saving Social Security. Specifically, the legislation would provide for the following:

13-member commission, the Commission on Long Term Social Security Solvency, with 8 members appointed by leadership from both parties in the House and Senate (two appointees from each party's leader in each chamber). The remaining 4 members of the commission will be appointed by the Chair and Ranking Member of the House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over Social Security. These are the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Finance Committee. Two of the congressional appointees must be non-elected experts.

The commission is chaired by the thirteenth appointee, named by the President. The President’s appointee means that the President’s party would appoint seven members, the other party appointing six.

Within one year of the first meeting, the commission must report to Congress on the 75-year health of Social Security and provide recommendations for how to improve the program.

The commission’s report must have a minimum of nine votes, guaranteeing a bipartisan consensus.

The legislation based on the commission’s plan would then receive expedited consideration in Congress for an up and down vote.

Pubic Support:

This legislation has received praise from experts at many organizations including the Bipartisan Policy Action Center, the Peterson Solutions Fund, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Concord Action, the American Action Forum, the American Enterprise Institute, Third Way, and the Progressive Policy Institute. These experts released the following statements in support of the Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act:

“America’s current and future retirees deserve a Social Security system that is financially strong, stable, and protected from automatic benefit cuts. With the program’s main trust fund projected to become insolvent in just six years, Congress cannot afford continued inaction. BPC Action commends Reps. Tom Cole (R-OK) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) for recognizing that meaningful Social Security reform will require bipartisan leadership and compromise. Their Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act offers a credible path forward by bringing together lawmakers and experts to strengthen the program and help secure Americans’ earned benefits for decades to come,” said Michele Stockwell, President of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

“With automatic cuts to Social Security looming in just a few years, now is the time to act. Peterson Solutions Fund applauds Representatives Cole and Suozzi for the introduction of the Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act of 2026. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation would establish a dedicated, formal process for lawmakers to consider the wide range of solutions available to shore up Social Security’s finances and ensure the program remains strong for future generations,” said Brett Loper, Executive Director of the Peterson Solutions Fund.

“I applaud Reps. Cole and Suozzi for reintroducing the Social Security Commission Act. With Social Security reaching insolvency in just a few short years, and a 24% cut in benefits looming because of inaction, time is running out to address a critical program relied upon by 70 million of Americans. A commission would be the first step in creating lasting bipartisan solutions,” said Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

""Kudos to Congressmen Cole and Suozzi for taking the lead on saving Social Security benefits and promoting fiscal responsibility. Social Security is currently careening toward insolvency, which would result in benefit cuts for millions of Americans. The Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act is an important first step to getting us back on track and protecting retirement security while not compromising the long-term economic health of the nation,” said Carolyn Bourdeaux, Executive Director of Concord Action.

“Commissions are often derided as an act of delay. The Commission on Long-term Social Security Solvency is a call for action. And action is needed urgently. Social Security is an essential component of the U.S. safety net and is faced with major, imminent financial troubles. Congress should act on the Commission’s plan, but needs to act now to create the commission,” said Douglas Holtz-Eakin, President of American Action Forum.

""The Commission on Long-Term Social Security Solvency provides a desperately-needed framework for developing reforms that can strengthen retirement security while improving the nation's fiscal outlook. The Commission's bipartisan composition and supermajority voting requirement ensure that Democrats and Republicans must at last work together to find common ground on Social Security reform,” said Andrew Biggs, Senior Fellow of the American Enterprise Institute.

“The math is clear: Social Security faces serious financial challenges in the years ahead. Saving this essential program will require bipartisan cooperation, and a Social Security commission offers the best path to a thoughtful, durable solution. We applaud Representatives Tom Cole (R-OK) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) for advancing this important step to strengthen Social Security and protect it for current retirees and future generations,” said Zach Moller, Senior Director of the Economic Program at Third Way.

""For the first time in a generation, Social Security's trustees project the program's primary trust fund will be depleted during the next presidential administration. The next president, and all U.S. senators elected this November, must act before the end of their term to preserve retirement security for seniors without imposing an undue debt or tax burden on working Americans. PPI commends Reps. Suozzi and Cole for proposing one possible mechanism for deliberating and fast-tracking bipartisan solutions that are long overdue,” said Ben Ritz, Vice President of Policy Development at the Progressive Policy Institute.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-praises-chickasaw-nation-governor-anoatubby-on-retirement-after-four-decades-of-leadership/,Lankford Praises Chickasaw Nation Governor Anoatubby on Retirement After Four Decades of Leadership,2026-06-08,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released the following statement following Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby’s announcement of his retirement.

“Oklahoma and the Chickasaw Nation are both better today because of the service of Bill Anoatubby,” said Lankford. “For over four decades, he has led with honor, integrity, and the mantra of ‘what is good for the state of Oklahoma is good for the Chickasaw Nation and what is good for the Chickasaw Nation is good for the state of Oklahoma’. During Governor Anoatubby’s time in office, the Chickasaw Nation has utilized its sovereign authority to put in place countless health, educational, and economic resources benefiting not only the Chickasaw people but all Oklahomans. I’m grateful that during my time in office, I have been able to count Governor Anoatubby as a friend and someone I could call upon to talk through important issues impacting our state. He and Janice have more than earned this retirement together, and I know they look forward to many happy days together with the grandkids.”

###",1,2026-06-09T06:27:37Z,2026-06-09T06:30:10Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-supports-usdas-response-efforts-to-combat-new-world-screwworm,Rep. Lucas Supports USDA’s Response Efforts to Combat New World Screwworm,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"A confirmed case of new world screwworm arrived in South Texas this week

Washington, DC – Yesterday, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) at a hearing supported Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and her efforts to combat new world screwworm.

Lucas emphasized the importance of resource allocation to fund new facilities and increase production in current facilities.

Partial Transcript:

“Secretary, I’d like to discuss also the new world screwworm for a moment, Lucas said. “And first, I want to thank you, Secretary Rollins, for your being extremely transparent and quick in response to the situation in Texas yesterday.”

“You, obviously, and the department are taking this very, very seriously, correct?” Lucas asked.

“That’s correct,” said Secretary Rollins.

“You’re working very hard, creating more facilities, increasing the production at existing facilities,” Lucas said.

“This will never go completely away. We just have to be vigilant and prepared,” Lucas concluded.

###",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-following-overnight-vote-a-rama-lankford-votes-for-secure-america-act/,"ICYMI: Following Overnight Vote-a-Rama, Lankford Votes for Secure America Act",2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK), Senate Republican Conference Vice Chair and member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), voted in favor of the budget reconciliation legislation that fully funds Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol through the end of President Trump’s term.

“For 19 hours, I joined my Senate Republican colleagues to vote down amendment after amendment from Democrats who wanted to defund federal immigration enforcement entirely,” said Lankford. “Democrats withheld pay from federal law enforcement officers for 76 days. Most Americans simply want to see the law enforced. That is not extreme. That is normal. Today, Republicans voted to provide certainty and security by fully funding ICE and Border Patrol for the next three years. As a side note, if my Prevent Government Shutdowns Act had been in place, we would have never been in this position to begin with.”

Background

Throughout the overnight Vote-a-Rama, Lankford kept Oklahomans updated on social media HERE. Following the vote, he joined CNBC’s Squawk Box, Newsmax, and Brian Kilmeade on Fox News Radio to discuss the outcome.

Lankford took to the Senate floor to speak against an amendment that sought to rescind approximately $100 billion in unspent funds from the Homeland and Judiciary titles of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, effectively stripping funding from ICE and Border Patrol. The amendment failed 46-53. You can watch Lankford’s floor remarks HERE.

###",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-in-fox-news-congress-should-suffer-shutdown-pain-not-the-american-people/,"Lankford in Fox News: “Congress Should Suffer Shutdown Pain, Not the American People”",2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC —US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) penned a column today in Fox News on their Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026. You can read it below or find it in Fox News HERE.

Congress Should Suffer Shutdown Pain, Not the American People

By: James Lankford and Maggie Hassan

For the past decade, Americans have watched a wasteful Washington drama unfold each year: government shutdowns that threaten our economy, jeopardize our security and hurt families all across our country.

Each time there is a shutdown, the American people are caught in the middle. Make no mistake, government shutdowns are not a theoretical or a procedural exercise, they have real consequences all across the country. The last shutdown cost our country more than $11 billion.

In recent shutdowns, we’ve seen long lines, up to six hours, just to get through airport security because TSA went unfunded. Air traffic controllers — the people who keep the skies safe for us to fly — went without pay. Veterans and seniors had a harder time accessing the benefits they’ve earned because those services ground to a halt. The Small Business Administration was hamstrung in its ability to support entrepreneurs trying to keep their small businesses afloat.

Families were faced with the prospect of having their SNAP benefits dry up as they tried to feed their children. Government shutdowns in the past have even threatened our ability to pay service members who help keep our country free. Government shutdowns show the world, America’s friends and foes, that the world’s greatest democracy and largest economy can be held hostage by politics.

For some of the loudest voices in our politics, government shutdowns may sometimes look like an appealing way to later score political points in a cable news hit, on social media, or on the campaign trail, but let’s be clear: The American people always pay a very real price.

Americans have had enough of this destructive, chaotic style of politics. Both political parties have caused government shutdowns in the past, so we believe both parties should find a way to make them stop.

We have worked together, a Senate Republican and a Senate Democrat, to propose a simple principle: No matter how much we argue about our national budget, the American people shouldn’t pay the price for Congress failing to do its job on time. That commitment helped us write, the “Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026,” which takes shutdowns off the table and pushes Congress to fulfill its responsibility to negotiate and pass full-year funding bills.

Here’s how it works: If Congress fails to pass any of the 12 appropriation bills on time, an automatic Continuing Resolution (CR) kicks in to keep paying federal workers and programs at the current year’s spending level. However, Members of Congress and our staff would be required by law to remain in Washington, D.C., voting seven days a week, until we solved our budget impasse. The House and the Senate would be restricted to only debating the appropriation bills until they were completed. It is as simple as staying after school to finish your unfinished classwork.

It may sound simple, but it is a radical change from the status quo. Congress would feel the pressure and pain of a shutdown, instead of the American people and federal workers. Air traffic controllers, service members, federal law enforcement, healthcare professionals, researchers, scientists and thousands of others would be able to continue serving the American people and would no longer be pawns in political standoffs. Because holding federal employees’ paychecks and critical federal services hostage doesn’t solve policy disagreements; they just hurts families.

We brought our bill to the Senate last session and earned strong bipartisan support, but we fell just short. We were only three votes away from never having a government shutdown again. Since that time, we have experienced the longest shutdown in American history. A growing group in the Senate and House has expressed its desire to finally end the chaos. We also have the strong support of multiple partisan and nonpartisan organizations, along with the American Federation of Government Employees.

We all understand that changing any of the status quo in Washington is never easy, even if the status quo is failing. But it is painfully obvious that the current system isn’t working, and we need a new path to settle our disagreements.

Americans disagree on many issues; in fact, the two of us disagree on many issues, but we strongly agree that it’s time to take shutdowns off the table for good.

###",1,2026-06-05T06:35:23Z,2026-06-05T06:36:42Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-support-americas-farmers-ranchers-and-agriculture-industry,"Cole Votes to Support America’s Farmers, Ranchers, and Agriculture Industry",2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R. 8646, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation funds the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Commodity Future Trading Commission. After voting in favor of the legislation, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“As the representative for over 13,000 farms and ranches in Oklahoma’s Fourth District alone, I know this to be true: when American agriculture is strong, America is strong. Today’s Agriculture funding bill recognizes that simple truth,” said Congressman Cole.

“This legislation supports our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. It invests in research to keep our nation’s agriculture industry competitive and in food safety through important inspection resources and protecting American agriculture from foreign pests and diseases. The bill reinforces America First principles by advancing ‘MAHA’ priorities and ending Biden-era regulations and Climate Corps funding. It strengthens rural communities, so many of which I represent in Oklahoma, by prioritizing funding for home ownership loans, broadband investments, and infrastructure development. On top of that, the bill tightens oversight of foreign purchases of agricultural land, reinforcing critical national security priorities,” said Congressman Cole.

“From the farm to the dinner table, the FY-27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act puts the American people first and I am proud to have voted in favor of it today,” said Congressman Cole.

Key Provisions Secured for Oklahoma in the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2027

$35 million for the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Operations Program, which will help support the over 2,100 watersheds in Oklahoma and enhance their flood control efforts. $10 million of these dollars are specifically for states, like Oklahoma, specializing in corrugated metal pipe projects.

$3 million for the Watershed Rehabilitation Program.

$50 million loan authorization level for the Rural Energy for America Program. 20% of this is allocated for distributed wind investments, supporting small wind operations in Oklahoma.

$271 million, which is a $36 million increase over the enacted number, for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. Oklahoma has the highest participation in this program out of any state, so this increased funding will help the over 20,000 tribal citizens in the state have access to food assistance.

Over $1.5 billion for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to conduct research, education, and extension activities which support our nation’s land-grant universities like Oklahoma State University, Langston University, and the College of Muscogee Creek, execute agricultural innovation and advancements.

$435 million for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative.

$3 million for research developments focusing on Oklahoma initiatives such as wheat breeding, wildfire prevention, barley resiliency, and biosecurity.

$24 million for the Circuit Rider Program, which helps support the over 3,000 technical assistance visits that Oklahoma Rural Water Association circuit riders carry out each year.

$481.5 million for the Emergency Food Assistance Program.

$14 million for the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment and Services Grant Program, which will help the over 60 counties in Oklahoma experiencing veterinarian shortages.

$115.5 million for Cattle Health with $10 million specifically for the New World Screwworm initiative and an increase of $700,000 for Asian Longhorned Tick outreach and education efforts.

$410.8 million increase for food safety state inspections to ensure states, like Oklahoma, are receiving proper reimbursements for meat and poultry inspection programs.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bice-applauds-committee-passage-fiscal-year-2027-transportation-housing,"Rep. Bice Applauds Committee Passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"June 4, 2026

Washington, D.C. – The Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Act recently passed the House Appropriations Committee.

Congresswoman Bice, the Vice Chair of the subcommittee, issued the following statement:

“This year’s THUD bill strengthens transportation safety on our railroads, highways, and in our skies. It modernizes our nation’s air traffic control system by funding the hiring of 2,300 new air traffic controllers and replacing outdated telecommunications infrastructure to improve safety and reliability. The bill also invests more than $6.3 billion in highways, railways, and airports to support our growing transportation needs. I applaud Chairman Tom Cole and Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack for their leadership and commitment to advancing the appropriations process in a timely manner.”

Key wins for Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District:

$8 million to replace the aging and outdated ATC tower at Wiley Post.

$10.2 million across five transportation projects to improve high risk traffic patterns or aging infrastructure.

$10 million for the development of a multipurpose community center in Choctaw.

$1 million for University of Central Oklahoma to continue upgrading their forensic science facilities that assist in processing backlogged Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women cases and to improve and expand their current facilities.

Funding for OKC ahead of the Olympics in 2028.

The legislation also:

Invests in transportation safety and rebuilds America by:

Providing $22.7 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to hire 2,300 new air traffic controllers and replace dated telecommunication infrastructure.

Rebuilding America with more than $6.3 billion in new budget authority for highways, rail, airports, and maritime infrastructure.

Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:

Funding the U.S. Merchant Marines, state Maritime Academies, shipyards, and the strategic sealift programs—including the Cable Security Fleet, Maritime Security Program, and Tanker Security Program.

Supporting America’s vehicle and aircraft manufacturers to ensure global leadership and to counter China’s malign influence.

Maintaining “Buy American” provisions that maximize the federal government’s use of services, goods, products, and materials produced and offered in the United States.

Providing $92 million for new Department of Transportation (DOT) cybersecurity infrastructure initiatives.

Cracks down on cargo theft that results in increased prices.

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-raises-concerns-with-treasury-on-marijuana-tax-relief-following-federal-rescheduling/,Lankford Raises Concerns with Treasury on Marijuana Tax Relief Following Federal Rescheduling,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX) today sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent raising questions about the tax implications of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) recent decision to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, and seeking clarity on how the US Department of the Treasury intends to handle potential retroactive tax relief for marijuana businesses.

Under Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code, businesses trafficking in Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substances are prohibited from claiming ordinary business deductions or credits. This reflects Congress’s determination that operations engaged with federally prohibited substances should not claim the same tax advantages as lawful businesses. Movement to Schedule III could allow marijuana businesses to claim federal tax benefits previously unavailable under federal law.

Read the full letter text HERE or below:

Dear Secretary Bessent,

The Department of Justice’s April 23, 2026, final rule rescheduling certain marijuana products from Schedule I to Schedule III carries significant implications for the federal tax treatment of marijuana businesses.

Under Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code, businesses trafficking in Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substances are prohibited from claiming ordinary business deductions or credits. This reflects Congress’s determination that operations engaged with federally prohibited substances should not claim the same tax advantages as lawful businesses. Movement to Schedule III could allow marijuana businesses to claim federal tax benefits previously unavailable under federal law.

We have long been concerned about the potential fiscal and societal consequences of rescheduling, which is why we introduced the No Deductions for Marijuana Businesses Act to prohibit marijuana businesses from receiving federal tax deductions or credits regardless of the drug’s classification.

In addition, we were particularly troubled that the final rule encouraged the Secretary of the Treasury to consider providing retrospective tax relief to marijuana businesses. The rule states that such relief would only apply to businesses that provide FDA-approved drug products or hold state-issued licenses. However, many state-licensed marijuana operators participate in both medical and recreational markets, making it unclear how Treasury would distinguish business activities that qualify or do not qualify for federal tax treatment.

The shortcomings of relying on inconsistent state licensure are already evident. For example, having a state license to grow or sell marijuana in Oklahoma does not mean that the business acts lawfully. At the height of its medical marijuana program, Oklahoma had 9,178 licensed marijuana growing operations. While law enforcement has worked diligently to close down many of these operations that violated the law, they were all at one point state licensed marijuana businesses. There are documented instances where licensed operations funneled marijuana to the black market and engaged in other crimes, like money laundering and human trafficking. Many of these operations have also been owned and operated by Chinese nationals who have exploited state marijuana laws to commit crimes.

Similar concerns have been observed in states like California and Maine, highlighting systemic issues with state-level licensing and regulation of marijuana markets. Across the country, businesses follow a patchwork of laws to become a licensed marijuana business. Some may be more stringent than others, but it remains the case that state licensure alone does not guarantee legal compliance or justify eligibility for federal tax benefits.

Accordingly, we request answers to the following questions by June 29th:

Can you further clarify the definition of “retrospective tax relief” in this context? How many prior tax years is the Treasury Department planning to consider for tax relief for marijuana businesses?

How will the Treasury Department ensure that marijuana businesses that are potential candidates for tax relief have not violated any law, including the diversion of marijuana to the black market, human trafficking, and money laundering?

What is the estimated reduction in federal revenue associated with providing marijuana businesses access to ordinary business deductions and credits?

How would providing retrospective tax relief to marijuana businesses help American families?

What would be the impact on annual federal deficits and the national debt to give certain marijuana business owners a newly created retroactive tax benefit?

What statutory authority permits the federal government to give business owners who sold or manufactured a product against federal law a tax benefit?

Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to our continued engagement with you on this important issue.

Sincerely,

[X]

Background

Lankford has long held that marijuana businesses selling a federally illegal product should not receive federal tax breaks. He introduced the No Deductions for Marijuana Businesses Act to ensure rescheduling does not trigger a federal tax windfall for the industry. Under the Biden Administration, he led Senate opposition to the rescheduling push itself, arguing the proposal was driven by politics rather than science. Oklahoma’s experience with its medical marijuana program, marked by thousands of licensed operations later tied to black market activity, money laundering, and human trafficking, has been central to his concerns.

###",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-2026-military-academy-appointees,Cole Announces 2026 Military Academy Appointees,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Oklahoma – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the names of the 2026 Military Academy appointees from Oklahoma’s Fourth District who received and accepted appointments for entry into one of our nation’s prestigious military academies. These academies include the United States Air Force Academy, the United States Merchant Marine Academy, and the United States Naval Academy.

Congressman Cole, along with the help of his staff, selected these appointees by hand and met with them last week.

After meeting with the appointees, Congressman Cole said, “Those who answer the call to serve are our nation’s finest – and that includes these eight young Oklahomans. I am so proud of these men and women for their choice to attend a challenging yet rewarding military academy. They really are some of the best and brightest and I have no doubt that they will go on to do amazing things serving our country as part of the Armed Forces.”

The list below includes the names and high school information of the appointees, as well as the academies to which they have been appointed.

United States Air Force Academy

Brandon Heckethorn – Lone Grove High School

Tessa Inman – Lindsay High School

Simon Marchesano – Moore High School (Also was offered the U.S. Naval Academy)

Gregory Williams – Norman North High School

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Joseph McCormick – McCormick Home School

United States Naval Academy

Julianna Chesnut – Rush Springs High School (Also was offered U.S. Military Academy at West Point)

Gracie Ragland – Byng High School

Ezekiel Stoda – Blanchard High School (Also was offered U.S. Military Academy at West Point)",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://lucas.house.gov/posts/reps-lucas-cole-bice-join-faa-administrator-bedford-in-tour-of-mike-monroney-aeronautical-center,"Reps. Lucas, Cole, Bice Join FAA Administrator Bedford in Tour of Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Oklahoma City, OK – Today, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), along with Representatives Tom Cole (OK-04) and Stephanie Bice (OK-05), joined Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford in touring the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center’s Air Traffic Control Training Academy. The tour provided an overview of controller training programs and the technologies used to prepare the aviation workforce.

The tour included visits to the Tower Simulator System Lab and the En Route Automation Modernization Lab.

“It was a great day in Oklahoma City with Administrator Bedford as we toured the impressive Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Representative Lucas. “The innovative technology that we saw today has, and will continue to, completely change the training curriculum for future aviation experts. This will bring our nation’s opportunities in aviation to new heights, and it will also enable our workforce to be equipped with more skills and services that will only further advance their careers. I’m optimistic about the future of aviation, and I’m proud that this innovation is occurring here in Oklahoma’s third congressional district.”

“I’m grateful to the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including Chairman Tom Cole, Representative Frank Lucas, Vice Chair Stephanie Bice as well as Senators Lankford and Armstrong for their strong leadership here in Oklahoma,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “This center is one of the crown jewels of research and development, and sustainment for the national airspace system. It all happens here. Training new air traffic controllers, technicians, and first and second level engineers. We had the most successful recruiting day in the history of the FAA for our air traffic controllers, we’ve shortened the hiring process and we are getting trainees into the Academy faster than ever.”

“Thanks to the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Oklahoma has long been a hub for aerospace and aviation industry development,” said Representative Cole. “The Center is not only a key administrative, research, and safety hub for the FAA, but it is also home to the FAA Academy, which is the only training center in the country for FAA-certified air traffic controllers. Therefore, it is no exaggeration to say that America’s national aviation industry cannot exist without the workforce the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center produces – and that was made very clear through the advanced technology and new curriculum we saw on the tour today. I would like to thank FAA Administrator Bedford for taking the time to come out to Oklahoma, as it is critical for the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center to continue to thrive.”

“It was great to be alongside Administrator Bedford at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Representative Bice. “On his visit, the first by an FAA Administrator in a decade, we witnessed the incredible work happening daily in Oklahoma City. I was proud to see new innovative technologies, funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which are helping to prepare future air traffic controllers and the next generation of professionals. Their mission is critical and the Oklahoma delegation is laser focused on providing the support they need.”

###",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-armstrong-applaud-nominations-of-us-attorneys-for-oklahoma/,"Lankford, Armstrong Applaud Nominations of US Attorneys for Oklahoma",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Alan Armstrong (R-OK) today applauded President Trump’s nominations of Christopher Nassar to serve as US Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma and Robert Troester to serve as US Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.

“Bob Troester has led the Western District with distinction for years, and Chris Nassar has spent his career going after some the worst criminals in northern Oklahoma. Oklahomans deserve strong, experienced leadership in both districts, and these nominations deliver exactly that. We look forward to their swift confirmation in the Senate.”

###",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-remembers-1921-tulsa-race-massacre-2/,Lankford Remembers 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre,2026-06-01,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senator James Lankford (R-OK) released the following statement on the 105th anniversary of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre that took hundreds of lives and left almost all of North Tulsa in ashes:

“The 31st of May and the 1st of June mark a time of solemn remembrance in our state and nation. One hundred and five years ago, the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre left a community in ruins and a nation with a wound that still demands honest reckoning. The residents of Greenwood did not allow that event to define them, and their resilience continues to inspire. North Tulsa, our state, and our nation lost much during those fateful days, but the work of turning tragedy into triumph continues. I remain grateful to the community leaders, churches, and families who press forward every day to restore North Tulsa as a beacon of culture, opportunity, and prosperity. True reconciliation requires that we never stop remembering, never stop listening, and never stop working toward a brighter future together.”

###",1,2026-06-02T06:40:38Z,2026-06-02T06:42:17Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/what-they-are-saying-lankfords-prevent-government-shutdowns-act-gains-broad-support-from-federal-workers-groups/,What They Are Saying: Lankford’s Prevent Government Shutdowns Act Gains Broad Support from Federal Workers’ Groups,2026-05-23,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) recently introduced the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026, legislation supported by a broad coalition of federal workers’ groups and policy advocates that would take government shutdowns off the table and require Congress to remain in Washington until their work is done.

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), Americans for Prosperity (AFP), International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), Partnership for Public Service (PPS), Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), and the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) are supporting the legislation.

“Government shutdowns are not an appropriate tool to resolve political disputes, and they ultimately fail to put the needs of our country and its people first. Reasonable solutions, like the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, would help end this cycle of mismanagement and ensure that federal agencies can deliver the services the public depends on. I applaud Senators Lankford and Hassan for their leadership on this issue and urge Congress to move swiftly to make shutdowns a relic of the past.” said Max Stier, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service (PPS).

“Congress never meant for shutdowns to be possible: they came from an executive branch decision in 1980 about a 19th century law. Today, the shutdown threat pushes members to vote for bills they didn’t get to read or have the chance to amend. Keeping programs going while Congress finishes up funding bills would help involve more members in the process and truly earn their support. We commend Senators Lankford and Hassan for building a stronger, more effective Congress through the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act,” said Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow in Fiscal Policy, Americans for Prosperity.

“AFGE is proud to support the bipartisan Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, introduced by Senators Hassan and Lankford. If government funding runs out, this bill forces Congress to burn the midnight oil until a deal is reached – and meanwhile keep the lights on in federal agencies. During the last shutdown, Congress had several lengthy recesses back home while tens of thousands of hardworking employees worked without the guarantee of a paycheck. This legislation is a commonsense approach to the all-too-frequent government shutdowns that disrupt public services, threaten employee livelihoods, and drive talented employees out of government. Congress should pass this legislation without delay,” said Dr. Everett Kelley, National President of the American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE).

“Government shutdowns are completely avoidable. One of the most basic functions of lawmakers is to keep the government funded. Failing to do so is a waste of taxpayer dollars, harms the economy, and distracts from the far bigger challenge of addressing our unsustainable debt. The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act is a commonsense reform that would help fix a broken budget process by automatically maintaining funding when appropriations deadlines are missed,” said Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CFRB).

“When government shutdowns occur, federal workers are the ones who bear the brunt. Employees are left to wonder whether they’ll be able to pay their mortgage or buy groceries while Congress fails to act. NTEU applauds Senators Hassan and Lankford for working together on this bill that would prevent future shutdowns and ensure that federal employees can continue to do their work serving the American people,” said Doreen Greenwald, President of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU)

“When critical aviation and transportation security workers are forced to work without pay or face uncertainty about their livelihoods, government shutdowns are a direct threat to aviation safety by undermining the safety infrastructure that the traveling public depends on every day. The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act would end the dysfunction that puts our national airspace at risk by ensuring federal agencies can continue operating while Congress does its job. ALPA applauds Senator Hassan and her colleagues for taking this commonsense step to protect workers and the flying public,” said President Capt. Jason Ambrosi, of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

Background

Introduced initially in February 2019, the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act requires that if appropriations work is not done on time, all Members of Congress must stay in Washington, DC, and work until the spending bills are completed. This will prevent a government-wide shutdown, continue critical services and operations for Americans, and hold federal workers harmless while Congress completes appropriations.

Joining Lankford and Hassan in introducing the bipartisan legislation are Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Kennedy (R-LA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Tim Scott (R-SC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19) and Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19).

Upon a lapse in government funding, the bill would implement an automatic continuing resolution (CR) on rolling 14-day periods, based on the most current spending levels enacted in the previous fiscal year. This would prevent a shutdown and continue critical services and operations.

During the covered period of an automatic CR, the following restrictions are put in place:

No taxpayer-funded travel allowances for official business (except one flight to return to Washington, DC) for the following:

White House OMB staff and leadership

Members of the House and Senate

Committee and personal staff of the House and Senate

No official funds may be used for CODEL or STAFFDEL travel

No use of campaign funds by congressional offices to supplement official duties or travel expenses

No motions to recess or adjourn in the House/Senate for a period of more than 23 hours

In addition, under the bill, no other votes would be in order in the House and Senate unless they pertain to passage of the appropriations bills or mandatory quorum calls in the Senate. However, after 30 days under the automatic CR, certain expiring authorization bills and executive calendar nominations would be eligible for consideration on the Senate floor, including a nomination for a Justice of the Supreme Court or a Cabinet Secretary, and narrow reauthorization legislation for programs operating under an authorization that has already expired or will expire within the next 30 days. These restrictions can be waived by a two-thirds vote in either chamber, but not for longer than seven days.

You can view the full text of the bill HERE, and learn more about it in Fox News HERE.

###",1,2026-05-23T06:08:46Z,2026-05-23T06:10:20Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-hassan-team-up-to-end-government-shutdowns-and-hold-congress-accountable/,"Lankford, Hassan Team Up to End Government Shutdowns and Hold Congress Accountable",2026-05-22,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) reintroduced the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026, which would take government shutdowns off the table and force Congress to stay in town until their work is done.

“Americans are tired of worthless government shutdown drama and Congress using federal workers and government services as pawns in political standoffs,” said Lankford. “The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act ends government shutdowns forever with a simple idea: if Congress doesn’t do its job, Congress doesn’t get to go home. We shift the pressure off the American people and onto the people they elected. We came within three votes of passing this before, and it is time to finish the job.”

“Government shutdowns are costly, avoidable, and make people in New Hampshire and across the country pay the price for the failures of Congress,” said Hassan. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill incentivizes Congress to fund the government on time and ensures that there is a plan in place to protect families and our economy if Congress cannot come to an agreement.”

Joining Lankford and Hassan in introducing the bipartisan legislation are Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Crapo (R-ID), John Kennedy (R-LA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Tim Scott (R-SC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

Companion legislation has been introduced in the House by Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19) and Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19).

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), Americans for Prosperity (AFP), International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), Partnership for Public Service (PPS), Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), and the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) are supporting the legislation.

Background

Introduced initially in February 2019, the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act requires that if appropriations work is not done on time, all Members of Congress must stay in Washington, DC, and work until the spending bills are completed. This will prevent a government-wide shutdown, continue critical services and operations for Americans, and hold federal workers harmless while Congress completes appropriations.

Upon a lapse in government funding, the bill would implement an automatic continuing resolution (CR) on rolling 14-day periods, based on the most current spending levels enacted in the previous fiscal year. This would prevent a shutdown and continue critical services and operations.

During the covered period of an automatic CR, the following restrictions are put in place:

No taxpayer-funded travel allowances for official business (except one flight to return to Washington, DC) for the following:

White House OMB staff and leadership

Members of the House and Senate

Committee and personal staff of the House and Senate

No official funds may be used for CODEL or STAFFDEL travel

No use of campaign funds by congressional offices to supplement official duties or travel expenses

No motions to recess or adjourn in the House/Senate for a period of more than 23 hours

In addition, under the bill, no other votes would be in order in the House and Senate unless they pertain to passage of the appropriations bills or mandatory quorum calls in the Senate. However, after 30 days under the automatic CR, certain expiring authorization bills and executive calendar nominations would be eligible for consideration on the Senate floor, including a nomination for a Justice of the Supreme Court or a Cabinet Secretary, and narrow reauthorization legislation for programs operating under an authorization that has already expired or will expire within the next 30 days. These restrictions can be waived by a two-thirds vote in either chamber, but not for longer than seven days.

You can view the full text of the bill HERE, and learn more about it in Fox News HERE.

###",1,2026-05-22T06:27:39Z,2026-05-22T06:29:18Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-conducts-hearing-secretary-transportation-sean-duffy,Cole Conducts Hearing with Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy,2026-05-22,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AK-03) led a House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agents Subcommittee budget hearing, where they collected testimony from Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget for the agency. Congressman Cole utilized some of his time with the Secretary to advocate for the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City, which is home to the only training center in the country for FAA-certified air traffic controllers. After the hearing, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“Oklahoma has long been a hub for aerospace and aviation industry development. The Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center is not only a key administrative, research, and safety hub for the FAA, but it is also home to the FAA Academy – and Secretary Duffy is more than aware of this. His support for the Center, as well as determination to supercharge controller hiring, has made a real difference and reflects a general understanding of what this facility means to the safety of our entire aviation system,” said Congressman Cole

“We have the land, the facilities, and a world-class staff in Oklahoma City to ensure that air traffic controllers receive in-person, focused, state-of-art training. Therefore, I personally will continue to fight for the funding this center needs to modernize and expand, while at the same time push back on any effort to decentralize or weaken what we have built at the Center,” said Congressman Cole.

“I’d like to thank Secretary Duffy for the attention he has given to Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, for attending this House Appropriations subcommittee hearing today, and for his leadership and commitment to our nation’s transportation sector. I look forward to continuing to work with him in the future,” said Congressman Cole.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-cotton-colleagues-to-trump-eliminate-un-agency-that-employs-hamas-terrorists-2/,"Lankford, Cotton, Colleagues to Trump: Eliminate UN Agency that Employs Hamas-Terrorists",2026-05-19,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tom Cotton (R-AR), joined by 23 colleagues, sent a letter to President Trump requesting that his administration work with the United Nations (UN) to fully dismantle and eliminate the budget of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Numerous UNRWA employees have ties to Hamas and other terrorist groups, yet they continue to receive millions of dollars annually from the UN.

Joining Lankford and Cotton in sending the letter are Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), John Curtis (R-UT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

In part, the Senators wrote, “We strongly urge your administration to take decisive action to fully dismantle UNRWA and eliminate it from the UN budget. Any aid organization in Gaza or otherwise must be demonstrably free of ties to terrorism and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace. We must ensure this failed system doesn’t continue reinforcing the conditions that have fueled terrorism for generations. The time to act is now.”

Read the full letter text HERE or below:

Dear President Trump,

We strongly support your administration’s efforts to preserve Israel’s long-term security and ensure that Gaza has a future free of Hamas’s terrorist influence. Your strong leadership has been instrumental in advancing a comprehensive 20-point peace plan that demands Hamas disarm and play no role in Gaza governance. Achieving stability in Gaza requires ridding Gaza of the military, social, and political infrastructure that fed Hamas’s power. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is one such structure that must be dismantled, not just in Gaza but across the region.

Established in 1949 as a temporary relief agency, UNRWA operates across Gaza, Judea and Samaria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. In defiance of its mission, extensive reports, investigations, and intelligence assessments have confirmed UNRWA’s systemic infiltration by Hamas and other U.S.-designated terrorist organizations. Yet America continued to fund UNRWA.

Israel found that at least twelve UNRWA employees participated in the Hamas-led October 7 attacks, and that roughly ten percent of the agency’s employees in Gaza have ties to terrorist groups. Recently, a USAID Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigation identified three additional UNRWA employees who participated in the attacks as well as 14 others affiliated with Hamas. The USAID OIG is expanding its probe to examine more than 100 UNRWA employees for potential ties to Hamas and involvement in the attacks.

Since October 7, Hamas has repeatedly diverted UNRWA’s supplies, used its facilities to hide weapons stockpiles and tunnel infrastructure, and even used its buildings to hold hostages. UNRWA’s educational curriculum glorifies terrorism and antisemitism. Yet while the United States has suspended direct funding and Israel has banned the agency from operating on its territory, UNRWA remains active in Gaza. UNRWA continues to receive $70 million annually from the United Nations regular budget – of which the United States provides roughly a quarter.

We strongly urge your administration to take decisive action to fully dismantle UNRWA and eliminate it from the UN budget. Any aid organization in Gaza or otherwise must be demonstrably free of ties to terrorism and committed to transparency, accountability, and peace. We must ensure this failed system doesn’t continue reinforcing the conditions that have fueled terrorism for generations. The time to act is now.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We stand prepared to assist.

Sincerely,

(X)

###",1,2026-05-20T06:27:31Z,2026-05-20T06:28:54Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-rosen-introduce-comprehensive-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-antisemitism-2/,"Lankford, Rosen Introduce Comprehensive Bipartisan Bill to Fight Antisemitism",2026-05-19,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, introduced the Jewish American Security Act, a comprehensive bill to strengthen federal efforts to fight antisemitism – including in US academic settings, at Jewish communal institutions, and online. The bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Education to develop and implement a comprehensive Title VI framework to combat antisemitism on college campuses, make available additional funding for security resources for at-risk houses of worship and other nonprofit institutions, and hold large social media platforms accountable by requiring transparency regarding their handling of antisemitic content online.

“Since October 7th, Jews in America have faced an unprecedented surge in antisemitism. These are not just numbers, these are real stories impacting real people,” said Lankford. “Jewish students being targeted on campuses. Synagogues being vandalized. People being attacked in the streets simply because of their faith and heritage. That is not who we are as a nation, and we unequivocally condemn antisemitism in all its forms. Every American deserves to live their faith freely. That is worth fighting for.”

“Our nation is facing an epidemic of antisemitism – year after year we are seeing unprecedented levels of antisemitic violence and harassment. Jewish Americans are being targeted, attacked, and killed simply because of who they are. This alarming trend demands a comprehensive, bipartisan approach that addresses both the seeds and the impacts of this vile hatred,” said Rosen. “From social media to college campuses, we’ve seen how this bigotry manifests into real-world violence against Jews. That’s why we must take concrete steps to understand the extent of antisemitism – both online and offline – and ensure that Jewish communities have access to robust security resources and government protections. I’m proud to introduce the Jewish American Security Act with Senator Lankford to strengthen efforts to fight antisemitism at the federal level and keep Jewish Americans safe.”

You can find the full text of the legislation HERE.

Background

This legislation is supported by the American Jewish Committee, ADL, Jewish Council for Public Affairs, Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (“Orthodox Union”), Jewish Federations of North America, Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations, Secure Community Network, The Rabbinical Assembly, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Jewish Women International, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ), the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate, JCC Association of North America, the Nexus Project, Union for Reform Judaism, the Central Conference of American Rabbis, and Agudath Israel of America.

Below are the statements from organizations endorsing this legislation:

“The data is unambiguous: Jewish Americans are under threat in their communities, on their campuses and online, and the federal government must act,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of ADL. “ADL’s Audit of Antisemitic Incidents recorded 6,274 incidents in 2025 alone, including 203 physical assaults, the most we have ever recorded, and three murders. The Jewish American Security Act meets this moment with the seriousness it demands. By strengthening the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, bolstering protections for Jewish students, and increasing accountability for online platforms, this bill equips law enforcement, educators, and communities with the tools they need to respond. We commend Senators Rosen and Lankford, for their bipartisan commitment to combating antisemitism and standing up for Jewish Americans, and we urge Congress to pass this legislation without delay.”

“No American should need a security perimeter to pray. No American should be afraid to leave their home or visit a cultural center of their choosing. Yet, that is exactly what Jews in this country are experiencing every day,” said American Jewish Committee (AJC) CEO Ted Deutch. “We are at an inflection point. Surging antisemitism is not just a threat to the Jewish community; it is a crisis for our democracy and the values we cherish as Americans – pluralism, religious freedom, and the promise of equal protection. We thank Senators Rosen and Lankford for their leadership and demonstrating that confronting this hatred is not a political issue, but a moral obligation.”

“Jewish communities across the United States are facing a real and growing security crisis, and the federal government has a responsibility to ensure that all Americans can gather, worship, and live openly and safely as who they are. Jewish Federations of North America and the communities we represent are deeply grateful to Senators Rosen and Lankford for co-leading and introducing this landmark security package at a moment when threats, fear, and violence have become part of daily life for far too many Jewish families and institutions,” said Hon. Eric D. Fingerhut, President and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America. “This legislation represents one of the strongest congressional responses we have seen to the alarming rise in antisemitism and targeted violence against the Jewish community. It sends a clear and unmistakable message: protecting Jewish Americans is not optional — it is an urgent national priority. We are proud to support this effort and urge Congress to act swiftly, because no American should have to live in fear simply for being Jewish.”

“The Secure Community Network proudly supports the Jewish American Security Act and is grateful for the bipartisan leadership of Senators Rosen and Lankford in advancing this critical legislation. In recent weeks alone, we have seen targeted attacks on Jewish schools, children, and synagogues, and the arrest of an individual directing violence against Jewish communities from abroad. These are not isolated incidents. They reflect a coordinated and escalating threat environment that demands a sustained federal response,” said Michael Masters, National Director & CEO of Secure Community Network (SCN). “This bill reflects long-standing priorities SCN has raised through expert testimony and engagement with policymakers and law enforcement partners. It meets the urgency of this moment by strengthening information sharing, assessing emerging threats, and breaking down silos. We are grateful for the bipartisan effort that brought this forward. It is a matter of safety, security, and the enduring promise of a nation where faith-based life can flourish without fear.”

“The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America strongly supports the Jewish American Security Act (“JASA”). Sadly, the American Jewish community is facing an unprecedented wave of antisemitism and that demands an unprecedented response by our government. The JASA is part of such a response and Congress ought to pass it as soon as possible. It will authorize essential funding for NSGP grants to Jewish synagogues and schools, direct the Justice Department to allocate funds to local police to better protect our communities and provide long-overdue, but sensible, protections for Jewish students on college campuses by demanding that their rights under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act are protected as much as the rights of other students,” said Nathan Diament, Executive Director of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America. “We thank Senators Lankford and Rosen for their leadership and partnership on this legislation and look forward to working with them and other allies to have it enacted into law.”

“Antisemitism has reached crisis proportions in the US, demanding a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, National President of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America. “Hadassah is proud to support the Jewish American Security Act, critical legislation that would fund the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, strengthen civil rights protections for Jewish students and study the correlation between online antisemitism and violence against Jews. We thank Senators Rosen and Lankford for their bipartisan leadership and urge Congress to act swiftly to safeguard Jewish communities across the country.”

“Jewish Americans face antisemitism wherever they turn: at school, at synagogue and even at home thanks to the cesspool of unabashed antisemitism that is growing exponentially online,” said Rabbi A.D. Motzen, Agudath Israel of America’s National Director of Government Affairs. “The bipartisan Jewish American Security Act addresses all of these forms of hate in one comprehensive bill and deserves to be enacted by Congress as soon as possible.

“At a moment of rising, increasingly-violent antisemitism, it’s vital that we invest in whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches that will keep Jewish and all communities safe. The Jewish American Security Act takes important steps forward, like strengthening the Education Department, supporting equal and unbiased Title VI enforcement, helping protect Nonprofit Security Grants from political interference, countering online extremism and hate, and recognizing the inextricable link between Jewish safety and our democracy,” said Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. “Make no mistake: there is no truly inclusive, pluralistic democracy unless antisemitism is addressed and Jews are safe. So too does Jewish safety require protecting the democratic norms and values that have long protected us — and we will continue to reject the false choice we’re too often offered between countering antisemitism and protecting our democracy and our rights.”

“Jewish Women International applauds Senators Rosen and Lankford for introducing the Jewish American Security Act, which addresses the growing antisemitic violence, vandalism and threats American Jewish communities have faced over the last few years,” said Meredith Jacobs, CEO of Jewish Women International. “While no one should have to fear being targeted because they’re Jewish, as JWI, we are particularly aware of how young, Jewish women are experiencing this moment and the threats they feel both in person and online. This bill would strengthen protections in schools, expand security support for communal institutions and require greater transparency around antisemitism on major online platforms. We’re proud to endorse it.”

“We are grateful for the bipartisan leadership behind the ‘Jewish American Security Act,’ a serious and necessary response to the rise in antisemitism,” said William C. Daroff, CEO of Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. “We commend Senators Rosen and Lankford for advancing this comprehensive legislation that strengthens protections for Jewish students, secures synagogues and communal institutions, and addresses the spread of antisemitism online. This legislation meets the moment. Congress should move it forward without delay.”

“College campuses are one of the last remaining places where young adults of different backgrounds and belief systems can engage face-to-face to break down walls and bridge divides,” said Adam Katz, President of the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate. “At the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate, we’ve leveraged this opportunity and taken our work to campuses across the country, standing up programming to foster healthy, respectful dialogue, and to ultimately engage students in the fight against antisemitism and all forms of hate. We are proud to support the bipartisan Jewish American Security Act, which will provide the resources and infrastructure required to protect Jewish students and to turn the tide on rising antisemitism. Defeating hate requires partnership and investment from both the public and private sectors. This legislation represents an incredible step forward in the fight to defeat hate and brings us closer to our shared goal of creating welcoming campus communities where all students can unlock their full potential.”

“At this perilous moment of violent antisemitism experienced by congregants, clergy, and congregations in our own Reform Jewish community and beyond, the need for meaningful steps to bolster security and the fight against hate is vital. The Jewish American Security Act strengthens the government tools and funding that will be available to help us meet this moment and uphold the American commitment to religious freedom,” said Rabbi Jonah Pesner, Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism.

###",1,2026-05-20T06:27:31Z,2026-05-20T06:28:54Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-fiscal-year-2027-military-construction-veterans-affairs-and,"Bice Supports Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act",2026-05-15,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the House passed the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The legislation provides $469.49 billion in total funding, supporting key investments in military infrastructure that strengthen readiness and support military families. The bill also continues investments in the Indo-Pacific region and fully funds veterans’ benefits and healthcare programs.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“As a member of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, I was proud to support this bipartisan legislation. Our brave service members and veterans deserve access to the care, benefits, and resources they have earned through their service to our nation. This bill also invests in key military infrastructure, housing, and childcare, which will support the families of those who protect and defend our nation. Importantly, it also continues to invest in resources to counter the threats we face from China. I appreciate Chairman Cole’s tireless work in getting the first FY27 appropriations bill to the House floor.""

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-support-military-families-and-fully-fund-veterans-care,Cole Votes to Support Military Families and Fully Fund Veterans Care,2026-05-15,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act:

“The strength of the United States has always rested on people willing to serve greater than themselves. The bill we passed today reflects that foundation – fully funding veteran care and benefits, prioritizing mental health and suicide prevention programs, and directing facility modernization. It reinforces base posture by investing in military construction, improving barracks, and ensuring our installations are equipped to uphold readiness. And we support those who shoulder the sacrifices of military service through housing, childcare, and quality-of-life priorities that sustain the families behind the frontlines. The FY27 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill delivers meaningful resources that reinforce America’s strength from the ground up. As the first appropriations measure to pass the House, this legislation reaffirms a funding process grounded in responsibility, readiness, and results,” said Congressman Cole. “The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act delivers on a promise to our heroes – past and present – and ensures they are supported with more than gratitude alone.”

Key Provisions in the FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act

Champions our veterans by fully funding their health care programs and benefits.

Invests over $2 billion in capital improvements for VA Medical Facilities and four national cemeteries.

Protects the Second Amendment rights of veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.

Supports the Trump Administration’s efforts in improving mental health and suicide prevention among veterans.

Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by providing robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region and infrastructure necessary to support American advanced weapon systems.

Provision Congressman Cole Secured for Oklahoma in the FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act

$55 million for construction of an E-7 Operations Facility at Tinker Air Force Base supporting the personnel, equipment, and aircraft essential to modernizing the Air Force’s airborne warning and control mission.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-introduces-bill-to-protect-the-privacy-of-charitable-donors-2/,Lankford Introduces Bill to Protect the Privacy of Charitable Donors,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Republican,Senate,OK,James Lankford,L000575,www.lankford.senate.gov,lankford,https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases,page_html,"WASHINGTON, DC — US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Todd Young (R-IN) introduced the Protecting Charitable Giving Act to address the unlawful disclosure of data identifying donors who contribute to nonprofit organizations. This legislation would help nonprofit organizations better protect the identities of their donors by reinforcing existing privacy protections and increasing the penalties for disclosure of sensitive taxpayer data.

“Nonprofits and their donors are an essential safety net for our communities—providing food, housing, and care to those who need it most. Oklahomans shouldn’t worry about their identities being made public after they provide a donation to a charitable organization. Millions of donors want to do something good without being recognized. We should honor their privacy as they care for others,” said Lankford.

“Anonymous giving has long been a way for Americans to support philanthropic organizations that rely on generous charitable contributions. In recent years, donor privacy has been threatened on too many occasions,” said Young. “This legislation will address the disclosure of donor data to better protect both charitable organizations and their donors.”

In an effort to verify the legitimacy of tax-exempt organizations, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires these organizations to collect the names and addresses of all major donors. While the IRS collection form is public, the identities of the donors are considered sensitive information and are not subject to disclosure. States like California and New York have tried to force tax-exempt organizations to disclose donor information. The Supreme Court, however, has ruled that these efforts infringe upon First Amendment rights.

The Protecting Charitable Giving Act would modify penalties relating to the disclosure of donor information to better ensure donor privacy and protection. More specifically, this legislation would:

Increase the penalty for willful disclosure of the identities of donors to tax-exempt organizations from no more than $5,000 to between $10,000 and $250,000.

Expand the jurisdiction of prosecution to include the judicial district in which the victim of the offense resides to ensure all cases are subject to a fair trial.

“Philanthropy Roundtable is deeply grateful to Senators Young and Lankford for their unwavering leadership protecting donor privacy. The right to give how, when and where donors choose, free from the fear of persecution and retaliation, is essential to safeguarding the free association that strengthens our society. The Protecting Charitable Giving Act strengthens federal law to substantially increase the penalties for leaking private donor information and make it easier for victims to pursue justice. Donor privacy has been under fire for years. This law is needed more than ever to protect every American’s right to privately contribute to the causes and communities they care about most,” said Christie Herrera, President and CEO, Philanthropy Roundtable.

“American charities are the lifeblood of this country and protecting the privacy of Americans, so that they can give to those charities without fear, is crucially important. The Protecting Charitable Giving Act is commonsense legislation that protects the First Amendment rights of citizens, no matter which charities they choose to support. It sends a clear message to bureaucrats that they cannot invade American’s privacy without serious consequences,” said Brent Gardner, Chief Government Affairs Officer, Americans for Prosperity.

Background

The Protecting Charitable Giving Act is supported by Philanthropy Roundtable and Americans for Prosperity. Lankford and Young previously introduced this legislation in May of 2024. You can read the full bill text HERE.

###",1,2026-05-15T06:17:41Z,2026-05-15T06:18:51Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-and-kaptur-introduce-training-rural-law-enforcement-officers-act-2026,Bice and Kaptur Introduce the Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05) and Representative Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) introduced the Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026. The bipartisan legislation would authorize the Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide grant funding to accredited nonprofit organizations to deliver law enforcement training at no cost to rural and smaller police departments with fewer than 50 sworn officers.

Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

“I was proud to lead this legislation to help ensure small and rural law enforcement departments have access to the high-quality training and resources they need to safely and effectively serve their communities. Far too often, smaller departments face limited resources and fewer opportunities for specialized training, and this bill helps ensure officers in every community have access to the tools they need.”

“Honored to lead this bipartisan legislation alongside my House Appropriations colleague Stephanie Bice. As we mark Police Week, we also take into account that many small and rural police departments often struggle to get the training and resources they need to protect and serve their communities. This is why extending funding opportunities to trusted nonprofits who help train and support our rural law enforcement is crucial to ensure that federal funds make it to these smaller agencies,""said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). ""Far too often, smaller departments get fewer opportunities for specialized training, and our bill ensures that every community big or small will have access to the same 21st century tools, and technology they need to do their jobs effectively.”

Thor Eells Executive Director of National Tactical Officers Association, issued the following statement:

“Far too often the brave men and women of our nation's law enforcement community, especially those from smaller and rural departments, lack the necessary training to effectively and safely resolve incidents they routinely face in the course of their duties. There is an important need for the federal government to allow for law enforcement officers from small and rural departments to receive proper training for such incidents, both routine and often unfamiliar. “The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026” will help ensure that law enforcement personnel from smaller and rural departments will have access to the training so vitally important to helping ensure both a proper and effective response to critical incidents and as a result preserving law enforcement and civilian life and security alike. On behalf of the over 40,000 members of the National Tactical Officers Association, I strongly commend Rep. Bice and Rep. Kaptur for bringing this important legislation forward.”

Mike Brown, Executive Director of Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executive’s Association, issued the following statement:

“On behalf of the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executive’s Association, I thank Rep. Bice and Rep. Kaptur for bringing this important legislation forward. “The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026” will significantly increase the access to critical training for smaller and rural law enforcement departments and agencies nationwide at no additional cost to the taxpayer. By expanding DOJ grant eligibility to validated non-profit organizations to provide vital training to smaller and rural law enforcement agencies, it will ensure that needed training will be received by law enforcement officials nationwide irrespective of their department’s size or resources. This increased training will assist agencies and their respective communities to respond effectively, efficiently, and compassionately to the public they serve.”

Contact: Wesley Harkins

Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z
https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bice-lucas-cole-join-faa-administrator-bedford-tour-mike-monroney,"Reps. Bice, Lucas, Cole, Join FAA Administrator Bedford in Tour of Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center",2026-05-07,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oklahoma City, OK – Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05), along with Representatives Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), and Tom Cole (OK-04), joined Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford in touring the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center’s Air Traffic Control Training Academy. The tour, which included visits to the Tower Simulator System Lab and the En Route Automation Modernization Lab, provided an overview of controller training programs and technologies used to prepare the aviation workforce.

Throughout their time in Congress, Representatives Bice, Cole, and Lucas, have been able to secure federal dollars for the Center. This year, through Fiscal Year 2026 funding, the Representatives fought for and secured $152 million dollars to ensure the facilities at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center remain the gold standard for all operations occurring at the Center, as well as for air traffic controller recruitment, training, and equipment to ensure the next generation of air traffic controllers have the tools they need to learn how to safely conduct air traffic within the national airspace system.

After the tour, the Representatives and Administrator Bedford released the following statements:

Congresswoman Bice said, “It was great to be alongside Administrator Bedford at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. On his visit, the first by an FAA Administrator in a decade, we witnessed the incredible work happening daily in Oklahoma City. I was proud to see new innovative technologies, funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which are helping to prepare future air traffic controllers and the next generation of professionals. Their mission is critical and the Oklahoma delegation is laser focused on providing the support they need.”

“I’m grateful to the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including Chairman Tom Cole, Representative Frank Lucas, Vice Chair Stephanie Bice as well as Senators Lankford and Armstrong for their strong leadership here in Oklahoma. This center is one of the crown jewels of research and development, and sustainment for the national airspace system,”said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.“It all happens here. Training new air traffic controllers, technicians, and first and second level engineers. We had the most successful recruiting day in the history of the FAA for our air traffic controllers, we’ve shortened the hiring process and we are getting trainees into the Academy faster than ever.”

“It was a great day in Oklahoma City with Administrator Bedford as we toured the impressive Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Congressman Lucas. “The innovative technology that we saw today has, and will continue to, completely change the training curriculum for future aviation experts. This will bring our nation’s opportunities in aviation to new heights, and it will also enable our workforce to be equipped with more skills and services that will only further advance their careers. I’m optimistic about the future of aviation, and I’m proud that this innovation is occurring here in Oklahoma’s third congressional district.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z