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://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/12/fitzpatrick-brings-home-20-million-dollars-for-bucks-county-community-projects,Fitzpatrick Brings Home $20 Million Dollars for Bucks County Community Projects,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) voted for the bipartisan omnibus appropriations package for Fiscal Year 2022, which fully funds the federal government through September 30, 2023, and secures funding for key Pennsylvania priorities. Through the Community Project Funding Request process for the 117th Congress, which was included in this omnibus appropriations package, Rep. Fitzpatrick secured support for 13 community projects in Pennsylvania’s First Congressional District. Rep. Fitzpatrick looks forward to President Biden signing the legislation into law as soon as possible. “I am pleased that community project funding for PA-01 that I have fought for was included in the House-passed bipartisan spending package. This critical funding will soon be delivered to address needs across Bucks and Montgomery Counties, including mental health and health services, financial education resources, and community and public infrastructure revitalization. I look forward to working with community leaders to implement these community projects in a timely fashion,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. Rep. Fitzpatrick successfully secured $19.015 million in funding for 13 community projects that will directly benefit First District constituents: BCOC Economic Self-Sufficiency: The purpose of this Economic Self-Sufficiency community project is to help individuals and families who are living below the poverty line to achieve economic stability and no longer need government assistance. The project will promote financial self-sufficiency by connecting families with resources to thrive. Through the ES program, households will not only increase income, but also increase social capital to support independence and community engagement. Funding Secured: $1 million Funding Requested: $595,000 Bucks County Criminal DNA Database: This funding would go towards technology that allows a cheek swap to be run through a small, desktop-size, machine with results in as little as 90 minutes. The new Sheriff of Bucks County would like to implement a county-wide Rapid DNA Program. The acquisition of two additional instruments will allow law enforcement to implement DNA testing throughout the county. Once this Program is established, those smaller police departments within Buck’s County, with limited resources, will be able to see the same results and success as larger police departments have. Funding Secured: $750,000 Funding Requested: $750,000 Bucks County Department of Corrections Outmate Program: The objective of the project is to reduce recidivism. The Bucks County Jail has seen an increase in repeat offenders. An outmate program will help these individuals be more successful once on parole, by allowing us to provide them with extended treatment specifically mental health and medical treatment as well as social services. Lehigh County, PA has implemented a similar program with much success. This program will reduce recidivism and help individuals transition back into society with greater success. Funding Secured: $900,000 Funding Requested: $900,000 Doylestown Health Heart and Vascular Suite Expansion: This project would expand the heart and vascular suite at Doylestown Hospital. This state-of-the-art procedural suite currently includes a hybrid operating lab that opened in 2017 primarily for vascular surgery, and also encompasses the oldest cardiac catheterization laboratory still online at the hospital. To help meet a significant increase in patient volume and address the nation’s number one killer, heart disease, Doylestown Health’s transformational plans include building a new universal hybrid operating lab, while also renovating the oldest catheterization lab to be outfitted with the most advanced technology and equipment. Funding Secured: $1 million Funding Requested: $1 million Grandview Hospital Expansion Project: This project funding would support health facility construction of four patient-at-risk rooms in Grand View Health’s new emergency department for the provision of health and behavioral health services. The new infrastructure will improve safety for patients and staff at the hospital. Funding Secured: $1 million Funding Requested: $1 million Lower Bucks Hospital ICU Expansion Project: This project would increase the current Intensive Care Unit capacity from 10 to 22 beds at Lower Bucks Hospital. Lower Bucks serves a populated area that is in need of greater capacity due partly to COVID and complications from COVID that some patients suffer. Funding Secured: $1.2 million Funding Requested: $1.2 million L.O.V.E. Is the Answer: This project would help improve community relations for law enforcement. Bucks County made history in early 2020 when the Bucks DA became the first to license the film, WALKING WHILE BLACK: L.O.V.E. Is The Answer. In less than a year, the DA’s office secured commitments from 30 of the 39 police chiefs in Bucks County to use the film to train officers, generated interest from a Bucks County high school to make viewing the film a graduation requirement, secured a commitment from the County Commissioner to use the film to train all 2,400 county employees on the L.O.V.E. Is The Answer principles, and garnered commitments from several other DA’s in Pennsylvania to use the film to improve police-community relations. This one-time funding request will enable the DA to go deeper and broader in their work, and position Bucks County as a national model for police-community relations. Funding Secured: $545,000 Funding Requested: $545,000 Morrisville Municipal Authority: The Morrisville Municipal Authority is in the process of completing planning and design of a new wastewater treatment facility (WWTF). The project will provide needed wastewater infrastructure to Morrisville which will in turn improve the economic outlook of the community. Funding Secured: $4 million Funding Requested: $2.7 million Morrisville School District Technology Program Project: The purpose of the School District of Borough of Morrisville’s Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology Innovation Program is to increase student achievement through the development and implementation of innovative instructional practices, curriculum revision, technology integration, the establishment of professional learning communities, and the growth of afterschool and summer support programming. This investment in technology learning will lead to better students and a better workforce for the future. Funding Secured: $850,000 Funding Requested: $850,000 Shenandoah Woods Improvement and Revitalization Project: This project has been part of a decades-long effort to repurpose this former residential development that was abandoned by the Navy Department. The project site is adjacent to, and will become part of, the 243-acre Warminster Community Park. Facilities available at the Warminster Community Park include walking trails, nature areas, parking, playground, pavilion, picnic area, pond, restrooms and soccer fields. The project site is a vacant, blighted property and a designated Certified Redevelopment Area under the Pennsylvania Urban Redevelopment Law. Funding Secured: $1.5 million Funding Requested: $1.5 million Startup Bucks: This project funding will go towards helping Bucks County entrepreneurs by providing them needed resources. Mentoring services and oversight resources are included to help with the administration of the Bucks Built Startup Fund. This project will help spur further economic development and help bring more startups to the Bucks County everyone. Funding Secured: $500,000 Funding Requested: $500,000 Upper Bucks Rail Trail Improvement Project: This project would help link the rail trails in Upper Bucks County. These trails are great for the environment and recreation and bring visitors from near and far to the area. These visitors will help boost economic development in the area. Funding Secured: $1.77 million Funding Requested: $1.77 million YMCA of Morrisville Branch Revitalization: The Morrisville Y is a safe community space that offers positive opportunities for families. In addition to helping to nurture children and prepare them for school and life, the Y also offers support for the adult caregivers of the young people in our care. In order to strengthen the Y’s programs, the branch is in desperate need of total renovations to all classrooms, windows, the roof, and asbestos removal. Renovations will allow the Y to improve the safety and quality of the facility, uplift the children and youth. The Morrisville YMCA has early care, school age and summer camp programs. Funding Secured: $4 million Funding Requested: $2 million ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-led-childhood-cancer-star-reauthorization-act-passes-us-house,Kelly-led Childhood Cancer STAR Reauthorization Act Passes U.S. House of Representatives,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus, released the following statement after Congress passed the Childhood Cancer STAR (Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and Research) Reauthorization Act, legislation he introduced along with Representatives Michael McCaul (R-Texas), G. K. Butterfield (D-N.C.), and Jackie Speier (D-Calif.). “The STAR Act has proven its immense value since it was first passed in 2018,"" said Rep. Kelly. ""Children are 25% of our population, but they are 100% of our future. It’s our duty to fund the research that will protect them in their most vulnerable moments and to ultimately find a cure. I’m grateful that Congress is prioritizing this research and will reauthorize the STAR Act."" “Thirteen years ago, I founded the Childhood Cancer Caucus to increase bipartisan efforts to address pediatric cancer and ultimately eliminate this heartbreaking disease. Each day since its passage, the STAR Act has brought us closer to that goal,” said Rep. McCaul. “The most comprehensive childhood cancer bill ever signed into law, the STAR Act works to improve the lives of cancer patients and cancer survivors through increased research. I’m thankful my colleagues voted to reauthorize it today and will continue raising my voice on behalf of these beautiful children until cancer is no longer a threat to their futures.” “I am pleased to see the Childhood Cancer Survivorship, Treatment, Access, and Research (STAR) Act heading to President Biden’s desk for another five-year reauthorization,” said Rep. Butterfield. “The STAR Act is a critical piece of bipartisan legislation that has provided hope to families in North Carolina and across the country suffering from pediatric cancer. We must continue to fund childhood cancer research and pave the way towards lifesaving pediatric-focused cancer treatments. Reauthorizing the STAR Act will do exactly that, ensuring our young people can lead healthy and full lives.” “The good news is more and more childhood cancer patients are beating the odds, with the population of survivors estimated to be over half a million people today. But that survival comes with immense care and quality of life challenges for children and their families. Even with cure rates increasing to 85 percent, many childhood cancer survivors must endure ongoing pain, disability, and medical needs,” said Rep. Speier. ""The 2018 STAR Act was the most comprehensive bipartisan childhood cancer bill ever signed into law. I’m proud and grateful that Congress will continue building on its life-saving initiatives with the STAR Act reauthorization, and to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that our inspiring childhood cancer survivors not only live, but thrive.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-opposes-democrats-massive-17-trillion-omnibus-spending-bill,Rep. Kelly opposes Democrats' massive $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) voted against the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending package, citing concerns about the overall cost to taxpayers, the lack of border security funding, and the limited time to review and hold hearings on the 4,155-page bill. ""We had just days to review a bill that's more than three times the size of the Bible and costs taxpayers more than a trillion dollars. Although there are some good parts to the bill, overall, I cannot support spending taxpayer money without thoroughly reviewing everything that's inside,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""Democrats control both chambers of Congress and the White House, and still could not pass this bill on time. Voting ""no"" isn't irresponsible. The way our government rushes to spend taxpayer money without critical oversight is irresponsible. The American people deserve better."" BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-legislation-honor-world-war-ii-veteran-passes-congress-expected-become,"Smucker Legislation to Honor World War II Veteran Passes Congress, Expected to Become Law",2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— Legislation introduced by Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) to honor the life of Lancaster County World War II Veteran and last known survivor of the Malmedy Massacre, Harold Billow, is expected to become law after passage in Congress this week. Smucker’s legislation to designate the Mount Joy Post Office Building as the “Harold Billow Post Office Building” in honor of Billow, a lifelong Mount Joy resident was passed by the Senate and in the House on December 23rd. “I’m thankful that our community will be able to honor an Mr. Harold Billow, an American hero, and an exceptional member of the Greatest Generation. He selflessly served our nation as a member of the United States Armed Forces and after his service displayed his steadfast patriotism remembering the 87 fellow soldiers lost during the Malmedy Massacre by displaying 87 American flags in his front yard on holidays throughout the year. May we always remember, honor, and give thanks for Mr. Billow’s service to our nation,” said Rep. Smucker. Background: A Mount Joy resident since the age of six, Mr. Billow was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 and trained as a “flash and sound” technician. During World War II, he was attached to Battery B of the 285th Field Artillery Observation Battalion and arrived in France in 1944 at the age of 21. On December 17th, 1944, Mr. Billow and 120 others in his unit were captured by Nazi soldiers, who fired upon the group rather than taking prisoners. 87 American soldiers were killed in this attack, which would later become known as the Malmedy Massacre. Mr. Billow was not struck by the bullets but fell to the ground and pretended to be dead as the Nazis walked among the survivors and shot any living men in the head. After several hours, he escaped by running to a nearby house with other survivors then, realizing the Nazis were behind them, he fled in the open air until he was found by the U.S. 30th Armored Division. Upon returning to the U.S., Mr. Billow spent the rest of his life in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, and was a committed member of VFW Post 5752 in Mount Joy, the Mount Joy Fire Department, American Legion Post 466 of Marietta, Pennsylvania, and the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-opposes-massive-spending-bill,Smucker Opposes Massive Spending Bill,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) voted against the Senate Amendment to H.R. 2617, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, a massive $1.7 trillion spending bill. Smucker issued the following statement: “Congress must get our nation’s fiscal house in order. We cannot continue to utilize this broken process which leads to unsustainable spending and a growing national debt. We simply cannot spend more and more year after year without consequences. The 118th Congress will now be faced with making the difficult decisions necessary to put us on the right financial track. We cannot continue to fail future generations of Americans by relentlessly adding to our already outrageous national debt.” “While I have significant concerns about the budgetary impact of this legislation, I am thankful that two bipartisan policies which I championed will be signed into law. I want to thank Reps. Gwen Moore and Lucy McBath for joining with me to advance the Savings Access For Escaping and Rebuilding (SAFER) Act to provide survivors of domestic abuse access to tax-free withdrawals from their retirement plans to escape their abuser and find safety. I also want to thank Rep. Kildee for co-leading the State and Local Corrections Officer Retirement Fairness Act of 2022 with me, which will provide additional support to corrections officers across the nation,” said Smucker. Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-opposes-17-trillion-government-spending-bill,Thompson Opposes The $1.7 Trillion Government Spending Bill,2022-12-23,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson issued the following statement after the vote on the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus: ""This feels more like Groundhog Day than Christmas. We've seen this play before: a lame-duck rush by Washington Democrats to spend more taxpayer dollars before Republicans control the House in January. I voted no."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/reauthorization-crawford-venango-countys-oil-region-national-heritage-area,Reauthorization of Crawford & Venango County's Oil Region National Heritage Area Passes U.S. House of Representatives,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Heritage Area Act, co-sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA). The bill reauthorizes the Oil Region National Heritage Area, located in Crawford and Venango counties, along with the 44 other National Heritage Areas (NHA) set to expire by 2024 for another 15 years, ensuring long-term security for these sites and the communities they benefit. This year, the bill was passed in the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee, meaning that for the first time, there is a bipartisan Senate agreement on a long-term NHA reauthorization. The bill now goes to President Biden for his signature. ""This is a big win for the Titusville area, which is so rich in history and tradition,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""Cultural heritage tourism adds more than $192 billion to the U.S. economy every year, including at the Oil Region National Heritage Area in eastern Crawford County. I'm thankful we could get this critical piece of legislation over the finish line."" BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-opposes-democrats-bill-would-expose-americans-private-tax-returns,Rep. Kelly opposes Democrats' bill that would expose Americans' private tax returns,2022-12-22,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) voted against the Presidential Tax Filings and Audit Transparency Act of 2022, legislation that has the potential to expose Americans' tax returns and private information to the public. The vote comes just days after Democrats on the House Ways & Means Committee rushed a closed-door hearing in an attempt to release six years of former President Donald Trump's tax returns. ""There is a real concern that the IRS is becoming weaponized. Where is the outrage?"" Rep. Kelly said. ""If this can happen to a former President, this can happen to anyone. This relentless six-year chase shows Democrats are willing to expose a private citizen’s tax returns for political gain."" WATCH: Rep. Kelly speaks following the Ways & Means Committee hearing reviewing former President Trump's tax returns. BACKGROUND On Tuesday, Democrats on the House Ways and Means Committee voted behind closed doors in a rushed committee meeting to publish six years of the former President’s complete private tax returns. Democrats’ Only Purpose Is to Expose the Private Tax Information of a Political Rival Ways and Means Democrats voted to publish a taxpayer’s full tax returns into public view for the first time in the history of the country This is nothing but revenge politics and will leave a stain on the historic Ways and Means Committee Democrats walked out of the meeting having failed to do what they promised to do – protect a minor child’s personal information Democrats Brought the Political Enemies List Back to Washington After Democrats’ reckless precedent, leaders of congressional tax-writing committees now have nearly unlimited power to target and publicize confidential tax information of private citizens, political enemies, business and labor leaders, or even the Supreme Court justices themselves This unleashes a cycle of political retribution that will make our politics more divisive Republicans Insisted that Democrats Protect Children’s Identities",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-floor-rep-kelly-pays-tribute-late-pittsburgh-steelers-rb-franco,"On U.S. House floor, Rep. Kelly pays tribute to late Pittsburgh Steelers RB Franco Harris, remembers 50th anniversary of Pittsburgh Pirates' Roberto Clemente's death",2022-12-21,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) paid tribute to remember the lives and legacies of two incredible Pittsburgh athletes and humanitarians: Pittsburgh Steelers running back Franco Harris, who died on December 20, 2022; and Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Roberto Clemente ahead of the 50th anniversary of his tragic death on December 31, 1972. You can watch and download Rep. Kelly's full speech HERE. KEY EXCERPTS FROM REP. KELLY'S SPEECH ABOUT FRANCO HARRIS: ""I had the blessing of knowing Mr. Harris. He was a very imposing figure, and he was a phenomenal athlete."" ""In addition to his years in the NFL and in addition to being an idol in the Pittsburgh community, Franco Harris was something else: Franco Harris was very approachable. Franco Harris always had time for those who needed something."" ""I think these two athletes (Harris and Clemente)... these are incredible people who did incredible things both on the field of athletics. But, more importantly, in the city in which they lived and for the people that were around them.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-senate-unanimously-approves-rep-kellys-bill-renaming-butler-post-office,U.S. Senate unanimously approves Rep. Kelly's bill renaming the Butler Post Office,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- On Monday night, the U.S. Senate unanimously approved a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) to rename the Butler, Pennsylvania Post Office after Civil War hero Andrew Gomer Williams. The bill, which passed the U.S. House unanimously last week, now heads to President Biden's desk for his signature. ""I want to thank my colleagues in the U.S. Senate for supporting this bill. Andrew Gomer Williams lived a life of service to his community and country, and I am proud to cement his legacy in our nation’s history,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""This is a great honor for a man who selflessly served his community and his country."" BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-dan-meuser-announces-new-chief-staff-0,CONGRESSMAN DAN MEUSER ANNOUNCES NEW CHIEF OF STAFF,2022-12-20,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.– Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) issued the following statement announcing the hiring of Tim Costa as his Chief of Staff: “I am very happy to announce the hiring of Tim Costa as Chief of Staff. Tim and I have worked together over many years including when I served as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Revenue and Tim as Executive Deputy Secretary of the Pennsylvania’s Department of Public Welfare, now the Department of Human Services,” Meuser said. ""Tim was an exceptional public servant to Pennsylvania, where he and his team orchestrated great savings to the taxpayers while improving services for Pennsylvanians"", said Meuser. ""Tim has most recently served as a consultant with Buchanan Ingersoll Rooney for the past 10 years, a leading Pennsylvania firm focused on projects benefiting Pennsylvanians. This background as well as Tim's work ethic, managerial skills, intelligence, integrity, and goal orientation will help us deliver even more for our constituents and our country. Tim's role will consist of operational oversight, constituent services and project management in Washington and at home.” “I’m honored to join Congressman Meuser’s team and get to work for the people of Pennsylvania’s 9th Congressional District,” remarked Tim. “I’m looking forward to utilizing my experience from both the public and private sectors to benefit the people of Pennsylvania.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-nearly-50-house-republicans-call-biden-administration-extend-title-42,"Kelly, nearly 50 House Republicans call on Biden administration to extend Title 42, secure the U.S.-Mexico border",2022-12-16,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) joined his colleagues demanding the Biden administration extend Title 42 provisions before the pandemic-era asylum policy ends on December 21, 2022. Title 42, implemented during the Trump administration and extended by President Biden, allows for the rapid expulsion of migrants and asylum seekers at the border. ""Border officials are predicting a surge of 14,000 migrants who will enter the country every single day if Title 42 is lifted. The Biden administration must once again extend Title 42 until it can produce an effective, long-term solution to secure our borders and reform our immigration system,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""Republicans will re-take the majority in the House of Representatives starting in January. I look forward to working with the administration on this critical issue to protect our borders."" Rep. Kelly signed onto a letter led by Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) and sent to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. In the letter, nearly 50 House Republicans demand the Biden administration and note that ""Under Title 42, migrants were expelled at rates 40 percent or higher for nearly every month in FY22, which considerably alleviated congestion along our borders. As this policy approaches its deadline next week, it is no surprise that illegal crossings are skyrocketing."" You can read their letter here. BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressmen-lloyd-smucker-and-blake-moore-introduce-protecting-adopting,Congressmen Lloyd Smucker and Blake Moore Introduce the Protecting Adopting Families from Audits Act of 2022,2022-12-16,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressmen Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) and Blake Moore (R-UT) introduced the Protecting Adopting Families from Audits Act of 2022 to provide Congress the information needed to ensure administration of the Adoption Tax Credit is fair and does not pose unnecessary burdens to those who adopt. “An IRS audit is no way to show thanks to families who are adopting children,” said Congressman Lloyd Smucker. “Yet, that appears to be exactly what is happening to the overwhelming majority of families claiming the Adoption Tax Credit, according to the most recent data from the Taxpayer Advocate Service. Adoption is already a timely and expensive process for families. Parents trying to build strong families should not face undue burdens. I thank Rep. Moore and my colleagues for advancing this important legislation.” “Throughout my first term in Congress, I have consistently advocated for families navigating the adoption process,” said Congressman Blake Moore. “I am proud to introduce the Protecting Adopting Families from Audits Act with Congressman Smucker to help us better understand how the IRS administers the Adoption Tax Credit and to prevent future issues—including unfair auditing rates—that may complicate the process for families pursuing adoption. The adoption process is already arduous and expensive, and we must do all we can to ensure the Adoption Tax Credit is administered fairly and efficiently so children in need find forever families."" In the past, those who claim the Adoption Tax Credit (ATC) were subjected to high audit rates. The National Taxpayer Advocate 2012 Annual Report to Congress found that nearly 70% of claimants of the ATC were audited in the 2012 filing season. While the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has taken action to address this problem, Congress has not yet received data confirming this issue has been properly resolved. The IRS also decided against following all of the recommendations from the GAO to resolve this issue. Because of the lack of data on audit rates and the potential for a renewed focus on auditing from the IRS, there are concerns that unfair audit rates could return in the future. To fill in information gaps and provide ongoing oversight, the Protecting Adopting Families from Audits Act would require the IRS provide three types of reports to the House Ways & Means and Senate Finance committees to seek: transparency into the audit rates of those who have received the Adoption Tax Credit since 2008; an annual report on Adoption Tax Credit audit rates through 2032, which will provide insight into how the Inflation Reduction Act impacts audit rates; and insight into how the IRS audits personal tax credits differently depending on if they are refundable or non-refundable.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-john-joyce-remembers-firefighter-kurt-keilhofer,Dr. John Joyce Remembers Firefighter Kurt Keilhofer,2022-12-13,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives in remembrance of Huntingdon County firefighter Kurt Keilhofer, who gave his life while responding to a 911 call on December 6, 2022. “We owe a debt of gratitude that we can never repay to Kurt Keilhofer, who gave his life while doing what firefighters do, protecting others,” said Congressman Joyce. “This year, 86 firefighters have lost their lives in the line of duty. This Christmas, please join me in saying a prayer for those families who will be missing a loved one.” Watch Congressman Joyce’s remarks by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-announces-winners-2022-congressional-app-challenge,Kelly announces winners of 2022 Congressional App Challenge,2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GROVE CITY, PA -- On Friday, December 9, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced the winners of the 2022 Congressional App Challenge, a contest promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics), coding, and computer science education. The awards presentation was hosted by Rep. Kelly's office at Grove City College in Grove City, Pa. ""I want to congratulate all of the winners from this year's Congressional App Challenge competition, and thank you to everyone who participated,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""This contest is a great way for students pursuing a career in engineering or computer science to showcase their skills and put into practice what they have learned in the classroom. I was very impressed with all of the great apps at this year's competition!"" Below are the winners of this year's competition for Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District: 1st Place: William Parisi, Taylor Stevens and Tyler Sasse of Knoch High School, Saxonburg, for their APP entitled, “EPIC GOLF"" 2nd Place: Tanvi & Asheen Uldgiri of Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy, Erie, for their Second-place award for their APP entitled, “The Numbers Game.” 3rd Place: Noah Coachman, Emily Greb & Riley Gillis of Knoch High School, Saxonburg, for their app, “The Maze Game."" BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kellys-bill-renaming-butler-pa-post-office-passes-us-house-representatives,"Rep. Kelly's bill renaming Butler, Pa. Post Office passes U.S. House of Representatives",2022-12-12,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7514, a bill led by U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) to rename the U.S. Post Office located at 345 South Main Street in Butler, Pennsylvania the ""Andrew Gomer Williams Post Office Building."" The bill, which passed unanimously by voice vote, is supported by the entire Pennsylvania delegation in the U.S. House. The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration. ""Andrew Gomer Williams lived a life of service to his community and country, and I am proud to cement his legacy in our nation’s history,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""He is a Civil War hero, and he is the definition of what it means to serve others. I would like to thank my colleagues for their support in honoring this heroic man. I also encourage everyone to read his life story. Mr. Williams was a remarkable man."" BACKGROUND In 1861, at the age of 21, Andrew Gomer Williams enlisted in the Union Army, assigned to help raise three companies of men in the newly created 63rd PA Volunteers. He was soon promoted to the rank of Captain of Company E of the 63rd PA Volunteers. Mr. Williams led his company in over a dozen battles, ultimately being wounded four times, including in 1863 when he was thought to have been killed in action. However, four days later, he was miraculously found alive on the battlefield. He then carried out the rest of his service alongside his regiment until August 6, 1864. After the war, Mr. Williams returned home to Pittsburgh to study law while working in the factories to support his family following his father’s death. Despite 13 tragic deaths in Mr. Williams’ own family, his dedication to his community never faltered. He opened a law firm in Butler, served two years in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, four years in the Pennsylvania State Senate, 20 years as the Choir Director of Butler’s First Methodist Church, assisted soldiers’ spouses in receiving their Civil War Widow’s Pension, and volunteered on the Board of Directors of the Civil War Orphans Home. A speech given by Butler historian Bill May on the life of Andrew Gomer Williams was inserted into the Congressional Record on June 16, 2021. The Congressional Record can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-announces-new-lancaster-district-office-location,Smucker Announces New Lancaster District Office Location,2022-12-09,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Lancaster, PA – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) announced that his Lancaster District Office will be moving to 2270 Erin Court, Lancaster, PA 17601 and will be fully operational on January 3, 2023. Constituent services will continue uninterrupted. “Listening to and serving the needs of the residents of Pennsylvania’s 11th Congressional District is my chief responsibility as a Member of Congress. My staff and I will continue to do everything we can to assist anyone who reaches out. We’re grateful for the opportunity to serve you. If our office may be of assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out,” said Rep. Smucker. This year Rep. Smucker and his staff have assisted 2,331 individuals with issues they are experiencing with the federal government and have responded to over 91,000 constituent inquiries. Smucker’s new office space will have ample access to free parking for constituents. It is also located directly off Route 30, the main thoroughfare connecting Lancaster and York counties making the office more accessible to residents of the 11th District. Furthermore, the new office space comes with significant cost-savings to the taxpayers. For assistance with federal agencies or to contact the office dial 717-393-0667 or contact Rep. Smucker via his website at Smucker.House.Gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/nfl-nhl-nba-mlb-support-rep-kellys-phit-act,"NFL, NHL, NBA, & MLB support Rep. Kelly's ""PHIT Act""",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This week, the National Football League (NFL), the National Hockey League (NHL), and National Basketball Association (NBA) publicly announced their support of the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Ron Kind (D-WI) that helps families cover costs of youth sports fees, encourages healthier living, and participation in youth sports. ""As a former college football player and youth football coach myself, I've seen young Americans greatly improve their lives because they were able to join a team and play sports,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""This bill gives kids, especially those in underserved or low-income communities, a real chance to play the sport of their choice. This isn't just about athletics: it's about gaining critical team-building and character-building traits that stay with kids for the rest of their lives. I thank the National Football League for supporting our efforts."" “Staying active is the best preventative medicine, and it’s especially important for kids and teens as they build healthy habits,” said Rep. Ron Kind. “As a former college football player, I thank the National Football League for supporting the PHIT Act. For many families, cost can be a barrier to participating in physical activities and youth sports. The PHIT Act is a commonsense way to invest in a healthy future for our children by making it more affordable for families to ensure physical activity is a regular part of their lives.” “Healthy lifestyles with exercise for adults and youth sports for kids have become a foundational part of our communities. Unfortunately, with inflation and budget cuts, local gyms and youth leagues are having to charge more making physical exercise and activities less accessible for working families,” said Rep. Jimmy Panetta, (D-CA), a co-sponsor of the bill. “The PHIT Act would provide financial incentives so that more kids can stay active through youth sports leagues and more parents and adults can stay fit at local fitness facilities. I’m proud of this bipartisan legislation and thrilled that our nation’s professional sports leagues are part of the team effort to promote the PHIT Act and perpetuate healthy communities."" ""Reps. Kind, Kelly and Panetta deserve great credit for supporting youth sports. We thank them for their stalwart leadership to pass the PHIT Act, making sports more affordable for every American family and helping promote healthy lifestyles,” said Tom Cove, President of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. The NFL, NHL, and NBA each publicly supported the PHIT Act in a series of tweets on Wednesday. This follows a letter to Congressional leadership signed by commissioners of the NFL, NBA, NHL, and Major League Baseball (MLB) earlier this year supporting Rep. Kelly's and Rep. Kind's bill. BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-kelly-statement-release-brittney-griner-efforts-bring-home-pa-native,"Rep. Mike Kelly statement on release of Brittney Griner, efforts to bring home Pa. native Marc Fogel held in Russia",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) released the following statement regarding the release of WNBA star Brittney Griner from Russian custody, and on Pittsburgh-area resident and Butler County native Marc Fogel, who remains in Russian custody. ""I am pleased to hear the news that Brittney Griner was released this morning and is returning to the United States. However, I remain deeply disappointed that the Biden administration was not able to secure the release of Marc Fogel. I urge the administration to include Mr. Fogel in any future negotiations, and I am once again calling on the State Department to further designate Mr. Fogel as 'wrongfully detained.' He is serving 14 years for possessing 17 grams -- or just over half an ounce -- of medical marijuana. That is egregious, even under Russia's current laws. ""This is a great day for the Griner family. I hope to see the Fogel family have the same reunion soon. To the Fogel family: we are not giving up on bringing Marc home."" BACKGROUND Mr. Fogel is a Butler County, Pennsylvania native and taught history courses at schools attended by children of U.S. diplomats in Columbia, Venezuela, Oman, Malaysia, and Russia. In August 2021, he was detained at the Sheremetyevo Airport with a small amount of medical marijuana prescribed for his chronic back pain. In June 2022, he was sentenced to fourteen years of hard labor in a Russian prison, a sentence usually reserved for large-scale drug smugglers. Under federal law, Mr. Fogel meets at least six of the eleven established criteria to be designated as “wrongfully detained” by the State Department.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-applauds-ndaa-passage-and-repeal-of-dod-covid-19-vaccine-mandate,Reschenthaler Applauds NDAA Passage and Repeal of DoD COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) issued the following statement regarding his support for the House passage of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023: “As a Navy veteran, I believe a strong military equals a strong nation. Just as Congress has done for the past 60 years, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 sends a clear message to America’s foreign adversaries that our nation will remain the dominating force in the world,” said Reschenthaler. “Republicans fought hard for this legislation to reflect the needs of our warfighters. I want to thank my friend, future Speaker Kevin McCarthy, for securing language to repeal the disastrous COVID-19 vaccine mandate for the Armed Forces. At a time when China is on the rise, Russia is invading Ukraine, and Iran is emboldened, it is of utmost importance for America to support its Armed Forces now with the tools necessary to defend our nation.” Specifically, this legislation: Supports a 4.6% pay increase for service members and authorizes $858 billion for national defense discretionary programs -- an increase of $45 billion over President Biden’s request. Rescinds the COVID-19 vaccination mandate on all active and reserve component service members and ends service member separations for failure to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Authorizes $1 billion for the acquisition of materials determined to be strategic and critical materials required to meet the defense, industrial, and essential civilian needs of the United States. Puts the Navy back on track to building a 355-ship fleet. Authorizes security assistance for Taiwan to deter China. Additionally, Reschenthaler authored several amendments that were included in the conference agreement:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-statement-on-prisoner-swap-with-russia,Reschenthaler Statement on Prisoner Swap with Russia,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) issued the following statement regarding the Biden Administration’s prisoner swap announcement with Russia:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-sewell-hickenlooper-tillis-introduce-bill-expand-retirement-savings,"Smucker, Sewell, Hickenlooper, Tillis, Introduce Bill to Expand Retirement Savings for Working Americans",2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON -Today, Representatives Lloyd Smucker and Terri Sewell, and U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Thom Tillis, the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to improve retirement security and financial well-being for low- and middle-income American workers. Specifically, the bill would establish a new program that gives eligible workers access to portable, tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts. It would also offer federal matching contributions for low- and middle-income workers, with the match beginning to phase out at median income. “I appreciate the opportunity to advance meaningful bipartisan legislation to assist hardworking Americans save for their retirement. Our legislation, the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, will create a pathway for millions of Americans to find financial security in their retirement. I look forward to continuing to advance this legislation in the next Congress and building upon the successes of SECURE 2.0 to help Americans become financially secure in their retirements,” said Rep. Lloyd Smucker. “Every Alabamian and every American should be able to retire with dignity after a lifetime of work,” said Rep. Sewell. “This critical, bipartisan legislation would address serious gaps in our retirement system and make it easier for low- and middle-income workers to save for retirement. I was proud to work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance this commonsense bill which would level the playing field for working families and build a stronger economy for all Americans.” “Too many Americans are working their entire adult lives only to reach retirement and find they don’t have enough saved,” said Sen. Hickenlooper. “Helping people save is an easy, efficient way to cut income inequality while making sure all workers get the retirement they’ve earned.” “Roughly 40 million Americans lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, which represents a significant roadblock to achieving financial security for their retirement,” said Sen. Tillis. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this real problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options.” “Far too many Americans are unprepared for retirement. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would tackle serious gaps in the U.S. retirement system that have hindered millions of workers from saving for a more certain and secure future,” said Economic Innovation Group President and CEO John Lettieri. “By incorporating a range of proven features, this innovative legislation would greatly expand market access to high quality retirement plans and target savings incentives to workers who need them most. The result would be a healthier retirement system, a more secure workforce, and a stronger economy to the benefit of all Americans. EIG is proud to have worked closely with Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Sewell and Smucker on this important legislation, and we applaud them for their bipartisan dedication to empowering American workers.” As many as six in ten workers lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan. and roughly half of households are at risk of taking a cut to their standard of living in retirement. Full text of the bill is available here. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would provide millions of hard-working Americans with a direct stake in the growth and prosperity of our economy,” said Kevin Hassett, former chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers and distinguished visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution. “This legislation represents a unique opportunity to fix major shortcomings in the U.S. retirement system and build bottom-up wealth in a manner that rewards work and strengthens faith in the basic fairness of our economic system.” “Too many Americans are struggling to meet their savings goals and secure a comfortable standard of living in retirement,” said Professor Teresa Ghilarducci, a labor economist at the New School and leading expert on retirement security. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act takes critical steps to address gaps in federal retirement policy and ensure that low- and moderate-income workers are equipped to build a nest egg for themselves and for future generations.” The bill contains the following provisions: Eligibility and Auto Enrollment: Full- and part-time workers who lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan would be eligible for an account, and they would be automatically enrolled at 3% of their income. They could choose to increase or decrease their withholding, or opt out entirely at any time. Independent workers (including gig workers) would also be eligible. Federal Contribution: Low- and moderate-income workers would be eligible for a 1% automatic contribution (as long as they remain employed) and up to a 4% matching contribution via a refundable federal tax credit. This would begin to phase out at median income. Portability: Accounts would remain attached to workers throughout their lifetimes, and workers would be able to stop and start contributions at will. Private Assets: The accounts would be the property of the worker and the assets could be passed down to future generations to help them build wealth and financial security. Investment Options: Much like the current Thrift Savings Plan, participants would be given a menu of simple, low-fee investment options to choose from, including lifecycle funds tied to a worker’s estimated retirement date, or index funds made of stocks and bonds.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-statement-passage-fiscal-year-2023-ndaa,Thompson Statement on Passage of Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023. Congressman Thompson released the following statement: ""The NDAA is one of the most important bills we pass as Members of Congress. This bill provides funding for our national defense, which keeps Americans safe at home and abroad. These funds will be used to provide our service members with a much-deserved pay increase and ensure military readiness against foreign adversaries like Russia and China. It also repeals the COVID-19 vaccine mandate further helping our military's recruitment and retainment. ""I am pleased that two of my amendments were included, which will require the Department of Defense to report on the impacts of inflation on military families and the effects of decreased recruitment and retention of those actively serving in our Armed Forces. This information will help address military readiness and better serve our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines and their families."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-statement-respect-marriage-act,Thompson Statement on The Respect for Marriage Act,2022-12-08,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following passage of The Respect for Marriage Act, U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson released the following statement: ""Individuals have the freedom and the right to choose who to grow old with in life. However, the bill lacks the appropriate constitutional protections for religious liberties enshrined in the First Amendment."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kelly-panetta-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-exempt-broadband-grants,"Reps. Kelly, Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Exempt Broadband Grants from Taxation",2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA-16) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), joined by Reps. Terri Sewell (D-AL-07) and Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), authored and introduced H.R. 9449, The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act, bipartisan legislation to amend the Internal Revenue Code to ensure that funding directed for the implementation of broadband from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) will not be considered taxable income. “More than 800,000 Pennsylvanians, including 520,000 rural Pennsylvanians, lack quality broadband internet access,” said Rep. Kelly. “This bill will not only help to change to that, but it will also work to make that access more affordable. It also ensures federal grant dollars, especially those made available to local governments through pandemic relief funding, will give constituents the best return on their investment. Internet connectivity brings together all Americans; it strengthens small businesses and E-Commerce; and it expands educational opportunities for our children. This legislation allows for existing grant funding to be spent as effectively as possible.” This bill was introduced in the Senate by Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS), and joined by Sens. Tim Kaine (D-VA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). Grants awarded to industry for the purposes of broadband deployment are currently factored into a company’s income and will soon be subjected to additional taxes due to scheduled changes to the corporate tax code that begin next year. In response to this issue, this bipartisan legislation excludes broadband deployment grants awarded through the IIJA and ARP from an organization’s income, ensuring the entirety of federal dollars awarded to companies for the purpose of deploying broadband around the country are used to connect Americans. “Although Congress recently provided historic investments to build out our nation’s broadband, many of the small businesses and companies that will use that federal funding to construct the networks and connect our homes could face steep taxes,” said Rep. Panetta. “This bill would exempt those grants from federal taxation and ensure that those dollars go directly towards our goal of universal broadband. Congress is working together to address the digital divide with investment and incentives and this bipartisan legislation would make it easier and quicker to close that gap with connectivity all across America.” “As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact Alabama’s businesses, hospitals and institutions of learning; access to reliable high-speed internet remains critical to the success of our communities,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am proud to support this rational bill ensuring that such resources can be utilized to the fullest extent without the tax code hindering growth in my district and across the state.” “Closing the digital divide so that every community has access to 21st century opportunities is critical to the success and growth of rural America,” said Rep. Ferguson. “Any federal grant program intended to build-out broadband in rural and underserved communities should maximize every dollar allocated for that intended purpose and ensure funds aren’t redirected back to the federal government.” WHAT THEY'RE SAYING “The federal government is making an enormous investment in rural broadband, but the effects of the tax code make it harder for the small, locally-based broadband providers we represent to maximize the amount of funding going to build out the network,” said Derrick B. Owens, Senior Vice President for Government and Industry Affairs for WTA - Advocates for Rural Broadband. “We applaud Representatives Panetta and Kelly for introducing the House version of the bipartisan Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act, which would streamline the tax code so that every broadband grant dollar goes toward building broadband networks and extending service to those who don’t have it. WTA strongly urges Congressional leadership to address this issue quickly.” “We are grateful that Congress committed tens of billions of dollars to broadband deployment grants through recent bills seeking to help close the digital divide in our country. But taxing broadband grants – requiring recipients to pay back to the government a portion of what they receive from the government – will dramatically reduce the impact of these programs and likely leave the hardest-to-reach communities without essential connectivity for even longer,” said Chief Executive Officer of NTCA Shirley Bloomfield. “It is critical that all broadband grant funds go toward their intended purpose of network deployment. NTCA is proud to support the ‘Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act,’ and on behalf of our members, I want to thank Representatives Jimmy Panetta and Mike Kelly for introducing the bill. This legislation will maximize the impact of every dollar granted for broadband deployment and further the mission of getting every American connected.” “CTIA applauds Congressmen Jimmy Panetta and Mike Kelly for their work to introduce the Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act. Protecting broadband infrastructure investments maximizes grants, which is vital in the deployment of broadband and closing the digital divide,” said Kelly Cole, CTIA Senior Vice President, Government Affairs. “Representative Panetta’s and Kelly’s bill to eliminate the counter-productive tax on broadband grants is right on the money. Closing the digital divide in America – especially in our hardest-to-reach rural communities – will require every cent of the $65 billion Congress has dedicated for that critical purpose. The dream of a truly connected nation is within reach, failure is not an option. America’s broadband providers are all in and are doing our part. For its part, Congress must act to eliminate the tax, and this bill is the right place to start,” said Jonathan Spalter, USTelecom President and CEO. #####",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/meuser-elected-pas-representative-republican-policy-committee,Meuser Elected as PA’s Representative to The Republican Policy Committee,2022-12-07,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09), was elected by members of the House Republican Conference as Pennsylvania’s representative to the Republican Policy Committee (RPC) for the 118th Congress. “It is truly an honor to serve on the Republican Policy Committee,” Meuser stated. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on an array of issues that are important to our constituents and country. We will work on policy that strengthens America’s national security and economy, and which benefits all Americans. There is much work to be done to deal with pressing problems regarding inflation, energy, and the border.” The RPC was first established in 1949. It serves as an advisory committee to House Republicans and provides a forum for Republican members to discuss legislative proposals and topics before the House. It produces informational background materials for use by the House Republican Conference. “Congressman Meuser is an excellent addition to the Republican Policy Committee team, said Gary Palmer (AL-06), the House Republican Committee Policy chairman. “He is solutions focused and will be an advocate for ideas that benefit his constituents and the American people. Dan brings great insights and experience to the Policy Committee, and I look forward to working with him.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-introduces-legislation-support-telehealth-recovery-program,Dr. Joyce Introduces Legislation to Support Telehealth Recovery Program,2022-12-06,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Joyce, M.D, (PA-13) introduced the Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act, which would permanently allow patients to continue receiving in home cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services under Medicare. The legislation is cosponsored by Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20). “As a physician, I know the benefits of empowering patients to heal at home,” said Dr. Joyce. “This legislation is an important step toward ensuring that cardiac and pulmonary-care patients are able to recover and rehabilitate from the comfort and safety of their home or in the care setting of their choice. Offering patients the option to access care at home is a key part of my commitment to putting patients first in the healthcare system while improving health outcomes.” “The Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act will help patients get out of the hospital, get back home, and get on the road to recovery,” said Rep. Jimmy Panetta. “Patients recover better when they have the option to heal at home, rather than endure a lengthy hospital stay. This bill constructively applies one of the major lessons from the pandemic to improve access and quality of care for millions of Americans.” During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) temporarily allowed certain cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs to be reimbursed for services provided or supervised virtually in a patient’s home. This temporary waiver increased access to proven and effective treatments for heart disease and led to improved health outcomes for patients. This legislation would not only safeguard that care can continue at the end of the current waiver period, but would take steps to ensure that all eligible patients are enrolled in, and have access to, necessary cardiac rehabilitation programs, which have been shown to reduce hospital readmission and increase life expectancy. Heart disease is a leading cause of death and a growing problem across the country and it is now estimated that nearly 40% of Americans will have developed heart disease by 2030.1 This legislation will enable more seniors to access lifesaving programs to address this disease. Medicare currently covers Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation as they are proven and effective treatments. Both CMS and the CDC’s goal of enrolling 70% of eligible patients in cardiac rehabilitation programs can be more easily achieved if providers are also allowed to offer home-based programs in addition to those offered already.2 Cardiac rehab has been shown to reduce hospital readmissions and increase life expectancy in patients.3 “I heartily (in every sense of the word) and strongly endorse the Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act,” said Dean Ornish, M.D., Founder & President, Preventive Medicine Research Institute Clinical Professor of Medicine, UCSF. “My colleagues and I conducted the first randomized controlled trials showing that intensive lifestyle changes could reverse even severe coronary heart disease. Rather than getting worse and worse, most people who make these intensive lifestyle changes people can get better and better. Last year, CMS began covering this program when people do it from home. This enables us to help people wherever they live, including rural areas, making better care available to more people at lower cost, reducing health disparities and inequities. It is equally safe and effective when done virtually at home, and most patients prefer it.” “Pritikin ICR applauds Congressman Joyce for introducing the Sustainable Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services in the Home Act, which will make virtual cardiac rehabilitation (CR), intensive cardiac rehabilitation (ICR), and pulmonary rehabilitation services available to patients via telehealth who would not otherwise be able to participate in these valuable clinical services,"" said Terry Rogers, President of Pritikin ICR. ""Today, only 20 to 30% of eligible patients participate in CR/ICR due in part to distance to the nearest cardiac rehab facility, lack of dependable transportation, transportation costs and the availability of these services in rural and underserved parts of the country. During the pandemic, expanded access to CR and ICR greatly improved health outcomes for patients and this bill will preserve that access for Medicare beneficiaries."" “Heart disease impacts 1 in 4 Americans. Cardiac rehabilitation is life-saving, yet only 8% of eligible patients complete a full program. Virtual options for both heart and lung rehabilitation programs have helped patients across the country, and this legislation would continue the progress made in recent years. Ultimately, this would lead to better access and health outcomes for patients, providers, and hospitals. We thank Rep. Joyce for his leadership on this vitally important issue,” said Recora Cofounder, Ed Wu, MD. Recora works with health systems and provider groups to provide virtual offerings focused on heart health. [1]https://millionhearts.hhs.gov/data-reports/factsheets/cardiac.html 2Chindhy S, Taub PR, Lavie CJ, Shen J. Current challenges in cardiac rehabilitation: strategies to overcome social factors and attendance barriers. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther. 2020 Nov;18(11):777-789. 3JAMA Cardiol. 2019;4(12):1250-1259. doi:10.1001/jamacardio.2019.4032",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/12/representatives-fitzpatrick-and-peters-send-letter-to-secretary-raimondo-urging-intervention-to-ensure-patient-access-to-early-cancer-detection,Representatives Fitzpatrick and Peters Send Letter to Secretary Raimondo Urging Intervention to Ensure Patient Access to Early Cancer Detection,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Last week, Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), a Co-Chair of the Congressional Cancer Caucus, and Representative Scott Peters (D-CA), along with a bipartisan group of colleagues, sent a letter to the Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo urging intervention in the European Union (EU) case that threatens to harm President Biden’s call to change cancer as we know it. Through a simple blood draw, MCED tests can locate cancer before it spreads throughout the body– preventing millions of deaths stemming from late-stage cancer diagnosis. Illumina announced its intent to reacquire GRAIL in 2020, after which the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) brought an administrative action to block the merger. Last month, Illumina and GRAIL prevailed in a trial before the FTC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge, but days later, the European Commission stepped in to rule against the merger, signaling a likely divestment order in direct contradiction of the FTC’s own judge, creating legal inconsistency on both continents. This letter requests that Secretary Raimondo intervene in the Illumina/GRAIL case to ensure that we do not set a precedent of foreign entities granting themselves boundless jurisdiction over Americans and American companies. This unprecedented interference from the European Commission would also hinder innovation in the early cancer detection sphere. “Having access to universal screening tests is monumental when it comes to preventing cancer deaths,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “We must not allow foreign entities to strip away our research and development efforts and block innovation, particularly when it comes to a disease that impacts every American. I urge Secretary Raimondo to work to intervene so that American companies can continue to forge ahead with lifesaving impacts for the cancer community.” ""If successful, the European Commission's attempt to block a wholly US merger could make the European Commission a gatekeeper for US innovation,"" Rep. Peters said. ""Given longstanding American leadership in health innovation and the Biden Administration's commitment to ending cancer as we know it, I hope Secretary Raimondo will consider intervening in the European Court of Justice's review if the case cannot be brought to a reasonable resolution."" Read the full letter here or below. Dear Secretary Raimondo, We appreciate your leadership to strengthen US competitiveness in advanced technology innovation. We are writing to express our concern that the European Union's emerging use of competition regulation as an instrument of industrial policy will undermine US innovation, harm the vital US-EU trade relationship, and provide unfair advantages to China, Russia, and other foreign nations seeking to displace US competitiveness in critical advanced technologies. We therefore support continued advocacy to protect US businesses and workers against discriminatory European competition regulation that unfairly targets American companies. We are concerned that European Competition Regulators have begun to use unprecedented new powers in the Digital Markets Act (DMA), in conjunction with recently adopted subjective jurisdictional criteria in Article 22 EUMR, to target US innovation with ex ante merger reviews. In February, bipartisan members of both houses of Congress wrote to President Biden proposing that US negotiators use the US-EU Joint Technology Competition Dialogue and the US-EU Trade and Technology Council to convey Congress’s “great concern” that the DMA unfairly targets US workers by “deeming” US companies as “gatekeepers” based on discriminatory, subjective thresholds. Similar concerns had been expressed by federal officials for several months leading to the congressional letters, including your public expression of “serious concerns” that the DMA unfairly targets American firms. The congressional letters urged that the EU slow down and incorporate revisions in the DMA that would allay the widely-held US concerns. Unfortunately, the EU Parliament did not accommodate US concerns prior to advancing the Digital Markets Act. Now, the European Commission (EC) has chosen as its “test case” for its expanded Article 22 power a wholly US merger already under review by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): the Illumina-Grail merger. On July 13, 2022, while the substantive merger review was still pending, the EU General Court rejected the parties’ challenge to the EC’s assertion of Article 22 jurisdiction and endorsed the EC’s expansive interpretation of this extraterritorial tool. The General Court decision has been appealed to the European Court of Justice. This merger could be of significant importance to the United States and illustrates the potential harm to US competitiveness posed by an expanded interpretation of the EC’s Article 22 powers. In his Cancer Moonshot Initiative, President Biden established a whole-of-government program to accelerate public access to early cancer detection. According to Grail, its Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) test, called Galleri, can identify more than 50 cancers at early stages with a simple blood draw. It can detect the 12 deadliest cancers with about 76% accuracy, and false positives are less than 1%. We’ve been told that Illumina’s acquisition of Grail could accelerate access and affordability for this revolutionary cancer testing that will save both lives and dollars. The EC’s actions could force Illumina to divest from Grail, which may have the effect of maintaining existing barriers to accessing this critical diagnostic. This move demonstrates the potential for the EC to impede US innovation by imposing a judgment against a merger of companies, one of which does not operate in EU markets. According to Grail, it has no products or customers in the EU. There currently is no European market for MCED testing. We understand that the EC initiated its own factual review after the FTC's Chief Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) had already begun an exhaustive review of this US-based transaction in Washington. The US review included a lengthy trial with extensive live testimony, cross-examination, voluminous document examination, and comprehensive oral arguments: all governed by rules of procedure and evidence. On September 1, the FTC's Chief Administrative Law Judge issued a lengthy decision rejecting the FTC's assertion that the merger would substantially lessen competition, and dismissed the FTC's complaint. Now, with the EC actively wielding Article 22 to prevent a wholly-US merger, we hope you will consider advocating among your EU counterparts in favor of prudence, fairness, and timely accommodation of US concerns, recognizing events are trending in what we believe is a harmful direction. We also hope that you consider the possibility of US Government intervention in the European Court of Justice review of Article 22 jurisdictional interpretation. CC: Lina Khan, Chair, Federal Trade Commission Francis D’Souza, CEO, Illumina Bob Ragusa, CEO, Grail Sincerely, Brian Fitzpatrick Member of Congress Scott H. Peters Member of Congress ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-congratulates-juniata-college-eagles-ncaa-iii-volleyball-championship,Dr. Joyce Congratulates Juniata College Eagles on NCAA III Volleyball Championship,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Joyce, M.D, (PA-13) congratulated the Juniata College Women’s Volleyball Team on winning the NCAA Division III National Championship. In a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Joyce praised the work of Coach Heather Pavlik and her team on clinching the third national championship in program history. “Equally as important as the team’s success in volleyball – is their success in the classroom,” said Congressman Joyce. “Juniata’s commitment to academic excellence is a shining example of how student-athletes can be supported both on and off the court.” Watch Congressman Joyce’s speech here. The Juniata Eagles capped off their 34-1 season with a victory over Trinity University (Texas), 3-0 (25-17, 25-11, 25-23) in the NCAA Division III National Championship. The title game marked their 27th consecutive victory, 34th overall, and it was the 23rd match of the season they won in three sets.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-supported-legislation-help-mothers-and-children-passes-house,Smucker Supported Legislation to Help Mothers and Children Passes House,2022-12-05,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— Rep. Smucker voted in favor of H.R. 8876, the Jackie Walorski Maternal and Child Home Visiting Reauthorization Act of 2022. The legislation was named in honor of the late Rep. Jackie Walorski who proudly represented Indiana's 2nd Congressional District from 2013 until her passing in August. The bipartisan bill reauthorizes the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program, increases federal investment over five years, and strengthens the focus on evidence-based home visiting models and practices. Smucker was an original cosponsor of the legislation which passed by a vote of 390 to 26. ""I am pleased that the House advanced legislation to honor my friend Rep. Jackie Walorski and her legacy of work to support the most vulnerable. I am saddened that Jackie is not here with us in the House, but I know the good works which she dedicated her life to will live on through the MIECHV program and the legislation we adopted,"" said Smucker. ""In Pennsylvania, MIECHV provides funding to the Nurse Family Partnership, which has helped thousands of women, families, and babies across my community learn the skills they need to create better futures. The model has proven outcomes to help families become economically self-sufficient and improve school readiness for children, setting them up for a lifetime of success. I recently visited with families in Lancaster who are participating in the program and saw firsthand the positive impact it is having on the lives of mothers and their children. I am thankful the House joined together to honor Jackie's legacy and pass this important legislation to empower and assist families,"" Smucker added. Background Information:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-passes-kelly-backed-bill-investing-mothers-children,"U.S. House passes Kelly-backed bill investing in mothers, children",2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) voted in favor of the Jackie Walorski Maternal and Child Home Visiting Reauthorization Act of 2022, bipartisan legislation that reauthorizes the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program and increases federal investment over five years. The bill supports expectant mothers and parents of young children to improve maternal and child health outcomes. The bill is named after Jackie Walorski, the late Indiana Congresswoman who died in August. ""Our youth are 25 percent of our population, but they are 100 percent of our future. This bill gives mothers and children a critical hand up, not a hand out, to ensure their future is much brighter,"" Kelly said. ""I was honored to serve with Ms. Walorski on the Ways & Means Committee and I saw firsthand just how passionate she was about this issue. This legislation not only carries on Ms. Walorski's legacy, but it will continue to strengthen the American family for years to come."" WATCH: Rep. Kelly delivers remarks on the House floor about the Jackie Walorski Maternal and Child Home Visiting Reauthorization Act of 2022. The Jackie Walorski Maternal and Child Home Visiting Reauthorization Act of 2022 includes:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/majority-whip-elect-tom-emmer-announces-chief-deputy-whip,Majority Whip-Elect Tom Emmer Announces Chief Deputy Whip,2022-12-02,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Majority Whip-elect Tom Emmer today announced Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) will serve as Chief Deputy Whip in the 118th Congress. “No one is more tenacious and determined than Guy, and his experience as a US Navy veteran is a vital addition to our leadership team. His reputation and relationships within the Republican conference speak volumes about his abilities. Guy will play a crucial role in House Republicans’ fight to deliver on our commitments to the American people,” said Whip-elect Tom Emmer. “House Republicans have a tremendous opportunity to show voters we are capable of delivering on our promises and serving as a vital check on Joe Biden’s disastrous agenda,” added Reschenthaler. “I want to thank Whip Emmer for the opportunity to serve in this role, and I couldn’t be happier to get to work for the American people.” Background on Rep. Reschenthaler: Guy Reschenthaler represents Pennsylvania’s 14th Congressional District, located in southwestern Pennsylvania. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, House Committee on Rules, and was selected to the China Task Force by Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy for the 117th Congress. Prior to Congress, Guy was elected Magisterial District Judge in 2013, won a seat in the Pennsylvania State Senate in 2015, and served his country in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General Corps, volunteering for duty in Iraq. In Baghdad, Guy prosecuted nearly 100 terrorists, including some of Iraq’s most dangerous terrorists. He also successfully defended a Navy SEAL falsely accused by the Obama Administration of mishandling the Butcher of Fallujah. While in Congress, Guy has successfully had legislation signed into law supporting America’s police officers, sounded the alarm on EcoHealth Alliance’s possible role in unleashing the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan, and was twice selected as the Elected Leadership Committee Representative for his 116th congressional class.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/12/fitzpatrick-s-introduce-legislation-to-support-renewable-natural-gas-vehicles-reduce-emissions,"Fitzpatrick, Sánchez introduce legislation to support renewable natural gas vehicles, reduce emissions",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA) introduced the Renewable Natural Gas Incentive Act, bipartisan legislation that would provide a tax credit for renewable natural gas, which can be used in heavy-duty vehicles like buses and freight trucks to immediately reduce greenhouse gas and particulate emissions while further supporting clean and efficient transportation across the country. “Renewable natural gas (RNG) provides economical and clean energy that can offer carbon-negative fuel for some of our nation’s largest supply chain vehicles,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. “Providing businesses with tax credits for RNG will boost our economy and safeguard our environment. I am proud to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation alongside my colleague, Rep. Sánchez, and to advocate for cleaner businesses and communities across the United States.” “Renewable natural gas offers cleaner, more affordable, and sustainable transportation fuel for the industries that keep America running,” said Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez. “With this credit, transit agencies, school districts, freight haulers, and package delivery companies can invest in cleaner energy and replace aging fleets without slowing production or increasing costs. I am proud to introduce legislation that will protect our planet, keep our economy running, and drive down emissions in environmental justice communities while we continue to invest in zero-emission vehicles across the country.” The tax code currently provides a 50-cent credit for natural gas used in transportation including natural gas from renewable sources. This credit, however, is less than the credit for renewable biodiesel which has consistently benefited from a $1 a gallon tax credit and is currently only available through 2024. The Renewable Natural Gas Incentive Act would create a $1.00 per gallon tax credit for sellers of renewable natural gas used for transportation for 10 years, allowing businesses to maximize the credit’s effectiveness to reduce their emissions while investing in zero-emission vehicle infrastructure. The legislation is supported by the Moving Us Forward coalition, a group of organizations that includes: American Biogas Council American Farm Bureau Federation American Trucking Association ANGI Energy California Dairies Clean Energy Fuels Contract Transport Services Demi Hexagon Agility Natural Gas Vehicles for America National Milk Producers Federation OPAL Fuels Tulsa Gas Technologies UPS WM Companion legislation was filed on July 20, 2022 by U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Richard Burr. You can view the full text of the Renewable Natural Gas Incentive Act HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-toomey-introduce-pipeline-permitting-reform-bill,"Kelly, Toomey Introduce Pipeline Permitting Reform Bill",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) introduced the Pipeline Permitting for Energy Security Act, which would create regulatory certainty for natural gas pipeline construction and approve Mountain Valley Pipeline completion. “Pennsylvania is the second-largest natural gas producing state in the country, and I’m committed to making sure the Keystone State can continue to serve as an energy leader in the United States and around the world,” said Rep. Kelly. “The Biden administration has created so many burdensome regulations on our domestic energy production during his first two years in office, driving costs up and shrinking the value of Americans’ hard-earned dollar. This bill eases regulatory conditions so pipelines can transport that gas from Pennsylvania to the Northeastern United States, ultimately lowering energy costs for families and businesses. I thank Senator Toomey for his joint effort to ensure Pennsylvania can lead America’s energy comeback!” Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA) introduced the Senate companion to the Pipeline Permitting for Energy Security Act today. “It is long past time to stop the exploitation of outdated laws to prevent the construction of pipelines, which are the safest and most efficient way to transport natural gas, by activists and the politicians who cater to them. The obstruction of commonsense, essential energy infrastructure projects has resulted in higher energy costs, increased global reliance on energy produced by tyrants like Vladimir Putin, and ironically prevented increased distribution of the energy source most responsible for the declines in U.S. greenhouse gas emissions,” said Senator Toomey. “Through the Pipeline Permitting for Energy Security Act, Congress would create regulatory certainty for pipeline construction nationwide and greenlight the long-delayed Mountain Valley Pipeline. This would also enable increased access to low-cost, clean, and safe natural gas from Pennsylvania. Real, lasting permitting reform is pivotal to creating a sustainable American energy policy for the 21st century.” Several stakeholder groups voiced support for Rep. Kelly’s and Sen. Toomey's efforts: “Pennsylvania has world class natural gas assets, but pipeline constraints prevent us from fully unleashing the value of these resources for consumers locally and allies abroad. Natural gas demand is strong – and we’re seeing producers across the state respond with new well activity, but we need to be able to get the product to consumers, domestically and abroad. America needs action on policies that will reduce chronic permitting delays, encourage more local manufacturing uses and build more energy infrastructure. We applaud Senator Toomey for his efforts to streamline the permitting process, once again signaling his long-standing, steadfast support of American energy security,” said Marcellus Shale Coalition President David Callahan. “We welcome Senator Toomey’s contribution to the ongoing discussion on improving permitting processes for infrastructure critical to meeting our nation’s energy, economic, security, and climate goals. This legislation is focused on meaningfully addressing overly burdensome regulations associated with the Clean Water Act (CWA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for both interstate natural gas pipelines and other vital energy infrastructure. We hope this further informs the conversation around permitting reform as we head into the next year,” said Amy Andryszak, President and CEO of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA). “As a matter of energy security, permitting reform legislation would address and ensure our nation's ability to produce and deliver our vast domestic energy resources, including renewables, and enhance our ability to effectively transition to a lower-carbon future,”said Thomas F. Karam, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Equitrans Midstream. “UGI Energy Services supports Senator Toomey’s bill that would make important changes to the pipeline infrastructure permitting process. Natural gas and natural gas infrastructure are critical to ensuring our economy can grow and that many U.S. families can live comfortably. It’s time for the Congress to pass legislation that enables an infrastructure to be built that can deliver clean, reliable, and safe energy throughout the U.S. while also protecting the environment. We are grateful for Senator Toomey’s longstanding and unwavering support of our industry and look forward to passage of this important legislation,” said Joe Hartz, President, UGI Energy Services, LLC. Background on the Pipeline Permitting for Energy Security Act:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-multiple-reschenthaler-bass-criminal-justice-reform-bills,"House Passes Multiple Reschenthaler, Bass Criminal Justice Reform Bills",2022-12-01,2022,2022-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives passed two pieces of bipartisan legislation introduced by Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Karen Bass (D-CA) to improve prenatal and post-delivery care for incarcerated pregnant women and their unborn babies and better reintegrate previously incarcerated individuals reentering their communities. H.R. 6878, the Pregnant Women in Custody Act, is legislation to establish a national standard of prenatal and post-delivery care for incarcerated pregnant women and their unborn babies. H.R. 3372, the One Stop Shop Community Reentry Program Act, is legislation to support community-based reentry resources for previously incarcerated individuals who return to their communities. “Over 50 percent of prisoners become incarcerated again within three years of being released – a horrific trend in America that must end in order to reduce our soaring crime rates,” Reschenthaler said. “It is also critical to ensure pregnant female prisoners and their unborn babies have access to quality prenatal and post-delivery care, as well as supporting a smooth transition to everyday life once released. I am proud to see the House pass these pieces of legislation and urge the Senate to act swiftly to do the same.” The Pregnant Women in Custody Act would: Provide incarcerated pregnant women access to prenatal and post-delivery care and support. Ensure the Federal Bureau of Prisons captures accurate data on pregnant prisoners’ physical and mental health care needs. Incentivize states to enact and enforce similar laws and policies. Require the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study on current practices for pregnant prisoners in state and local jails and prisons. The One Stop Shop Community Reentry Program Act would: Provide grants to community-based organizations for the creation of one-stop reentry centers, which would combine the provision of various reentry services in one location, thus making it easier for returning citizens to access them. Implement complete reentry services to address the critical elements of the reentry process that promote long-term reentry success. These services include housing, job training, and placement in mental health counseling. Increase support for recently released individuals by utilizing formerly incarcerated individuals as mentors and assistance personnel. Establishes a 24/7 reentry service assistance hotline to direct recently released individuals to appropriate reentry resources in their states and localities. This ensures individuals living in rural communities have access to the same resources.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:32:05Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-and-representative-barragan-introduce-legislation-expand-access,Dr. Joyce and Representative Barragán Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease,2022-11-30,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC –Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) and Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), introduced legislation to ensure greater access to Alzheimer’s Disease treatments for American seniors. The Access to Innovative Treatments Act would require the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to weigh the practical use of innovative medical treatments after enough data is collected on a treatment’s effectiveness. Through this legislation, patients will have access to new treatments individually determined to be covered by Medicare, significantly increasing accessibility. “With over 6 million Americans and 280,000 Pennsylvanians affected by Alzheimer’s disease, we must ensure that as many patients as possible are able to access groundbreaking, innovative treatments to slow or stop the progression of this devastating disorder. The Access to Innovative Treatments Act would ensure that seniors can access potentially lifesaving therapies, and I urge my colleagues to join me in passing this legislation that supports patients and their caregivers,” said Congressman Joyce. Earlier this year, on April 7, 2022, CMS announced that it would cover the treatments for monoclonal antibodies used to treat Alzheimer’s disease for Medicare beneficiaries. However, this decision to cover monoclonal antibody treatments for Alzheimer’s patients was only applicable to beneficiaries under CMS’s Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) pathway, drastically restricting coverage to the point that less than 1% of Medicare beneficiaries would be eligible to access new, FDA-approved drugs and treatments. “I know the impact of Alzheimer’s firsthand — I’ve watched my mom struggle with Alzheimer’s over the last several years. While her disease is too far advanced to benefit from scientific breakthrough therapies that could improve her condition, there are hundreds of thousands of people out there who can benefit. CMS’ current policy of applying its coverage decision to an entire class of drugs is detrimental to the families and individuals suffering from this heartbreaking disease” said Congresswoman Barragán. “And the problem exists beyond treatment of Alzheimer’s – a similar determination for any disease would restrict access to breakthrough drugs regardless of their effectiveness. We must work to ensure these breakthrough therapies are accessible. This legislation is a crucial step forward for ensuring that Medicare beneficiaries have access to new drugs when enough data is collected on the product.” “Scientists, former regulators, and bipartisan members of Congress have been loud and clear: CMS got it wrong, and people are suffering because of it,” said George Vradenburg, chair and co-founder of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s. “We hope that between this bill and the recently introduced Mandating Exclusive Review of Individual Treatments (MERIT) Act patients will get the transparency they deserve and access they need to promising, new treatments just on the horizon.” “Thank you to Representatives Barragán and Joyce for introducing the bipartisan ‘‘Access to Innovative Treatments Act of 2022,’’ which will help ensure greater Medicare access to FDA-approved treatments for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia,” said Robert Egge, Alzheimer’s Association chief public policy officer and Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) executive director. “CMS should not determine coverage based on type of treatment, as no two treatments are the same, even if they are in the same class of drug. The Alzheimer’s community recently experienced the potential harm this practice can bring, and we appreciate congressional champions like Barragán and Joyce for supporting people living with Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.” “Before its decision on Alzheimer’s disease, CMS had historically covered most FDA-approved drugs for their on-label use, and the agency had never denied coverage of an entire class of drugs based on the safety and efficacy profile of one FDA-approved drug,” said Sue Peschin, President and CEO of the Alliance for Aging Research, “That is for two good reasons. First, the scientific expertise lies within FDA, and respectfully, not within CMS. Second, each FDA-approved drug has a unique molecular structure, different mechanism of action, and different side effect profile, making it wholly inappropriate for CMS to issue class-wide coverage determinations. The Access to Innovative Treatments Act would help fix some of the problems CMS created by departing from its past practice.” The following organizations have endorsed the bill: UsAgainstAlzheimer’s, Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM), and Alliance for Aging Research.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-showing-gratitude-thanksgiving-0,Reschenthaler: Showing Gratitude on Thanksgiving,2022-11-24,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) released the following statement on Thanksgiving Day: “In 1621, the Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans gathered for America’s first Thanksgiving, giving thanks for their many blessings in the New World. In 1789, President George Washington’s proclamation formally recognized the holiday by acknowledging ‘a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God.’ President Lincoln followed suit in 1863, establishing Thanksgiving as a federal holiday.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-introduces-bill-hold-irs-accountable-strengthen-oversight-and-protect,"Kelly introduces bill to hold the IRS accountable, strengthen oversight, and protect taxpayer money",2022-11-21,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), the top Republican on the Ways & Means' Select Revenues Subcommittee, introduced H.R. 9341, the IRS Funding Accountability Act. The legislation responds to the Democrats’ use of the so-called “Inflation Reduction Act” (IRA) that will infuse the IRS with $80 billion of new funding without any oversight measures to prevent waste, protect taxpayer rights, or measure improvements of service. The IRS Funding Accountability Act would give Congress a direct say in how this new funding could be spent, further hold the IRS accountable, and provide more transparency for the American people. Rep. Kelly's bill is supported in the U.S. Senate by companion legislation introduced by Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), senior members of the Senate tax-writing committee. ""Democrats and the Biden administration have weaponized the IRS over the last two years to pay for their tax-and-spend agenda. The time for oversight is now,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""The $80 billion authorized in the so-called Inflation Reduction Act will unfairly target low-and-middle income Americans. The goal of my legislation is to provide much-needed oversight and accountability that the Inflation Reduction Act lacks. This will hold government accountable to the American people and ensure the IRS is properly using taxpayer dollars."" “The Democrats’ attempt to supersize the IRS without holding the agency accountable to Congress and American taxpayers is dangerous and irresponsible,” said Sen. Thune. “This legislation would provide much-needed oversight of the unprecedented $80 billion in new funding to the agency, more than half of which Democrats have directed toward enforcement-related measures, including audits. If our bill becomes law, the Biden administration’s IRS would have to answer to the American people, not Washington bureaucrats.” “Government, especially when it comes to the treatment of taxpayers, needs to be accountable and transparent to the American people,” said Sen. Grassley. “When Democrats’ partisan spending bill gave the IRS an extra 80 billion dollars, their legislation included no oversight mechanisms whatsoever. Our bill will ensure that the IRS is answerable to the American people in how it uses this money, and will force it to forfeit funds every day it’s not in compliance.” BACKGROUND Rep. Kelly's legislation would, among other things: Require the IRS to provide Congress with an annual plan for how the agency intends to use the new IRA funds, which would be subject to a new joint resolution of disapproval. Require quarterly updates from the IRS and U.S. Department of the Treasury to enable consistent and transparent evaluation of the plans Provide accountability for any misuse of funds, and guard against violations of taxpayer rights. Failure to submit timely and thorough plans or reports would result in financial penalties, including IRA funds being rescinded on a daily basis until the IRS complies with the reporting requirements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-legislation-honor-world-war-ii-veteran-advanced-committee,Smucker Legislation to Honor World War II Veteran Advanced by Committee,2022-11-21,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— Legislation introduced by Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) to honor the life of Lancaster County World War II Veteran and last known survivor of the Malmedy Massacre, Harold Billow, was unanimously approved by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform last week. Smucker's legislation would designate the Mount Joy Post Office Building as the ""Harold Billow Post Office Building"" in honor of Billow, a lifelong Mount Joy resident. Smucker's legislation was introduced with the support of the entire Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation. ""I want to thank the members of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform for unanimously advancing my legislation to honor an American hero from Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District. I look forward to the House approving this bill to honor a true patriot and exceptional member of the Greatest Generation,"" said Rep. Smucker. Background: A Mount Joy resident since the age of six, Mr. Billow was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 and trained as a ""flash and sound"" technician. During World War II, he was attached to Battery B of the 285th Field Artillery Observation Battalion and arrived in France in 1944 at the age of 21. On December 17th, 1944, Mr. Billow and 120 others in his unit were captured by Nazi soldiers, who fired upon the group rather than taking prisoners. 87 American soldiers were killed in this attack, which would later become known as the Malmedy Massacre. Mr. Billow was not struck by the bullets but fell to the ground and pretended to be dead as the Nazis walked among the survivors and shot any living men in the head. After several hours, he escaped by running to a nearby house with other survivors then, realizing the Nazis were behind them, he fled in the open air until he was found by the U.S. 30th Armored Division. Upon returning to the U.S., Mr. Billow spent the rest of his life in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, and was a committed member of VFW Post 5752 in Mount Joy, the Mount Joy Fire Department, American Legion Post 466 of Marietta, Pennsylvania, and the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-led-lymphedema-treatment-act-passes-house-representatives,Kelly-led Lymphedema Treatment Act passes House of Representatives,2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed landmark legislation, H.R. 3630, the Lymphedema Treatment Act, which is co-led by U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA). The bill will ensure Medicare Part B coverage of doctor-prescribed compression garments, the clinically recognized treatment for lymphedema. The bill, which was reintroduced in May 2021, is led by Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Buddy Carter (R-GA) and co-led by Representatives Kelly and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). The bill passed by a vote of 402-13. ""Today my bill, the Lymphedema Treatment Act, passed the House with overwhelmingly bipartisan support,"" Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA). ""This bill will ensure Lymphedema patients on Medicare get the treatment they deserve. Too often these patients cannot get their basic care covered by Medicare. Not anymore.” “We are one step closer to providing relief for lymphedema patients, many of whom live through one of the worst diagnoses imaginable – cancer – only to come out the other side with an equally debilitating condition and a fraction of the resources and support. As co-chair of the Cancer Survivors Caucus and a pharmacist, I am excited to see Congress provide relief to patients who have been denied Medicare coverage for far too long,” said Congressman Buddy Carter (R-GA). ""Today, the House of Representatives took one giant step closer to finally providing needed relief to over three million Lymphedema patients on Medicare,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (D-IL). “My bill, the Lymphedema Treatment Act, which I was proud to introduce with my colleague, Rep. Buddy Carter (GA-01), will expand access to medical compression garments that Lymphedema patients rely on to treat their painful, incurable swelling. The bill passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support thanks to the tireless work of advocates like Heather Ferguson, Founder and Executive Director of the Lymphedema Advocacy Group, and her teenage sons. With tremendous bipartisan support in the Senate, we can get this bill to President Biden’s desk before the end of the year. Millions of Lymphedema patients are counting on us."" “Komen applauds the passage of the Lymphedema Treatment Act as an important step in relieving the financial burden felt by many breast cancer patients and survivors who experience lymphedema, particularly Black and Hispanic women, and calls for swift passage in the Senate,"" said Molly Guthrie, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy for Susan G. Komen. “The use of prescribed medical compression garments significantly improves health and quality of life for patients through reduced incidence of infections, hospitalizations, and other costly, yet preventable, complications. However, the out-of-pocket costs for these garments prevent people from accessing them."" “The Oncology Nursing Society applauds the bipartisan leadership of U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky and Buddy Carter for championing the necessary patient-centered Lymphedema Treatment Act (LTA). Nurses help patients with cancer and survivors navigate symptom management, and LTA will have a direct impact on how patients and their families cope with the many burdens of lymphedema. Thank you for your support in passing this legislation!” said Jeannine Brant, PhD, APRN-CNS, AOCN®, FAAN, ONS President. BACKGROUND Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive group of conditions characterized by swelling and discomfort in various parts of the body due to malfunctions in the lymphatic system. Between 1.5 and 3 million Medicare beneficiaries currently suffer from lymphedema. Patients undergoing treatment for cancer are particularly susceptible to lymphedema. When left untreated or undertreated, lymphedema can lead to complications, infections, comorbidities, loss of function, and disability—often necessitating costly emergency department or hospital visits. Commercial insurance and state Medicaid programs currently cover compression therapy. Under current law, Medicare Part B does not cover most Lymphedema treatments. The means Medicare beneficiaries with the disease must either pay out of pocket or go without treatment, which can lead to more significant medical complications over time. In recent years, Congress has repeatedly encouraged CMS to begin covering Lymphedema treatments in the same way they cover other preventative treatments for Medicare beneficiaries, but CMS has failed to act.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-waltz-demand-biden-administration-deter-iranian-attacks-us,"Reschenthaler, Waltz Demand Biden Administration Deter Iranian Attacks on U.S. Interests in Iraq",2022-11-17,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Mike Waltz (R-FL) led a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging the Biden Administration to respond to Iran’s recent attacks in Iraq to deter future aggression and protect U.S. personnel operating in the region. Since March 2022, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have launched several coordinated armed drone and missile attacks into northern Iraq, killing and injuring dozens of Iraqis and killing one American citizen. These attacks demonstrated that the Iranian regime has the capabilities to target U.S. and partner interests in Iraq without consequences from the Biden Administration. Under the Trump Administration, the United States designated the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organization. In January 2020, following an attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, U.S. forces took kinetic action against the IRGC and killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, a sanctioned terrorist and the former IRGC Quds Force Commander. In the letter, the members wrote: “As Iran continues to sow chaos and destruction in the Middle East, these continued attacks have assaulted Iraq’s sovereignty, threatened U.S forces and ongoing counterterrorism efforts, and killed innocent American and Iraqi civilians. It is deeply concerning that these attacks have not been met with a strong U.S. response, and we believe this will only increase the IRGC’s ongoing terror campaign across the region. To that end, we urge the Administration to respond against these Iranian threats to deter future attacks and protect our regional interests. Without responding to these provocations, we risk additional threats to our warfighters, diplomats, and civilians in the region.” Reschenthaler and Waltz have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and deployed to the Middle East during their military careers.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-republicans-elected-conservative-leaders-mccarthy-scalise-emmer,"Reschenthaler: Republicans Elected Conservative Leaders in McCarthy, Scalise, Emmer, and Stefanik",2022-11-15,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler (R-Penn.) released the following statement regarding today’s Republican House Leadership elections: “Congratulations to future Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Majority Whip Tom Emmer, and Conference Chair Elise Stefanik on their victories in the House Republican Caucus Leadership elections. These four members of Congress are experienced, accomplished, and determined to lead the House into a new era – away from Biden and Democrats’ woke, socialist agenda and towards freedom, prosperity, and the American Dream. That’s our commitment to America.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-statement-veterans-day,Reschenthaler Statement on Veterans Day,2022-11-11,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler (R-Penn.) released the following statement on Veterans Day: “Since the birth of our great nation, countless brave men and women have answered the call to defend our freedoms and put their lives on the line for their fellow Americans. This includes nearly 39,000 southwestern Pennsylvanians from our 14th Congressional District.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-langevin-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-national-0,"Thompson, Langevin Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National Career Development Month",2022-11-10,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Glenn ""GT"" Thompson(R-PA) and Jim Langevin (D-RI), co-chairs of the bipartisan House Career and Technical Education Caucus, today introduced a resolution recognizing November as National Career Development Month. National Career Development Month marks an important time for our students and workers of all ages to consider and explore future career opportunities. It is also a time to recognize the professionals who guide learners to become the leaders of tomorrow. Throughout the month, schools and businesses will have the chance to showcase different career paths that align with various interests and skills. These opportunities will better prepare students as they begin to enter the workforce. ""National Career Development Month raises awareness of future career opportunities and development programs for all individuals,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""A highly skilled workforce is a business' number one asset and provides a competitive edge. This month, I encourage employers, students, and workers of all ages to take advantage of career development, putting them in the driver's seat of their future."" ""Every November, we pause to thank the dedicated educators who encourage our nation's students to explore the career pathways that most align with their interests and skills,"" Rep. Langevin said. ""Investments in career development are critical to maintaining our competitive advantage in the global economy. This National Career Development Month, I want to recognize all of the career development professionals who are committed to empowering the next generation of American leaders."" ""The National Career Development Association (NCDA) is pleased to designate November as National Career Development Month. This celebration commemorates the important work of NCDA members who provide quality career development services to students and clients. By inspiring careers, they empower lives. We commend the work of Representatives Thompson and Langevin in making informed career choice a national priority. NCDA members appreciate this national resolution and continued support of both representatives and members of Congress,"" said Dr. Lakeisha Matthews, NCDA President. ""A hallmark of high-quality CTE is career development opportunities that equitably support learners as they explore and pursue their career passion. Advance CTE is proud to support this bipartisan resolution designating November as National Career Development Month from Representatives Thompson and Langevin, which recognizes the crucial role career development contributes to a skilled workforce and learner success in education, work, and in life,"" said Kimberly Green, Advance CTE Executive Director. ""Career development activities support student engagement and growth, promoting a well-informed pursuit of professional endeavors throughout an individual's life. The National Association of Workforce Boards is proud to support Representatives Thompson's and Langevin's resolution designating November as National Career Development Month, which encourages practices that improve workforce outcomes and the wider U.S. economy,"" saidRob Painter, CEO of National Association of Workforce Boards. Jobs For Our Future strongly supports the designation of November as ""National Career Development Month."" Career navigation systems and professionals are more important than ever in our rapidly changing economy. They are critical in helping students, jobseekers and workers make informed, financially sound, and sustainable education and career choices in an increasingly complex labor market,"" said Mary Clagett, Senior Director for Workforce Policy. ""Career development professionals are a community of passionate individuals dedicated to supporting and serving students. Each day, career development professionals guide learners on their paths to pursuing a successful, engaging career pathway of their choice. We are pleased to designate November 2022 as National Career Development Month alongside Congressmen Thompson and Langevin, and we thank them for their recognition of the key role that career development professionals play in the evolution of our workforce,"" said ACTE Executive Director LeAnn Wilson. ""National FFA is proud to support the resolution for National Career Development Month, Career development is integral to National FFA's three-component model – classroom, work-based learning and leadership activities. Through our career development events, our members participate in career exploration and gain valuable skills that prepare them for the workforce. This resolution encourages collaboration and celebration as we prepare the next generation of leaders and their future successes. Our organization thanks Representatives Thompson and Langevin, along with the other members of Congress, who are championing workforce development policy,"" said National FFA CEO Scott Stump. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/11/fitzpatrick-named-a-champion-for-children-by-first-focus,Fitzpatrick Named a Champion for Children by First Focus,2022-11-04,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, November 3, 2022, U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) was named a 2022 Champion for Children by the bipartisan advocacy organization First Focus Campaign for Children. Only 40 members of the House of Representatives are awarded each year. “I am proud to be honored as a Champion for Children by First Focus Campaign for Children,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “America’s children will one day be America’s leaders, and they deserve the resources and programs they need to get them there. I will continue to put my name on legislation that benefits children across the country, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.” Congressman Fitzpatrick is the sponsor of several bills and resolutions aimed at improving the lives and educations of children, including H.R.8548 New Essential Education Discoveries Act of 2022, H.R.8494 Trauma-Informed Schools Act of 2022, H.R.6608 Scratch Cooked Meals for Students Act, and H.R.5984, IDEA Full Funding Act. First Focus Campaign for Children’s 2022 Legislative Scorecard ranks members of Congress according to votes and bill sponsorships taken during the 117th Congress that prioritize the well-being of children in the U.S. and around the world. The new report examines key pieces of legislation designed to reduce child poverty, protect unhoused children, aid those who lost caregivers to COVID-19, guard against environmental threats, ensure that children have enough to eat, and to address other issues critical to advancing the needs of all children everywhere. Just 120 members of Congress in total, across both chambers and parties, were named Champions or Defenders for children in the 117th Congress. See the list of winners here. Download the full report here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-reschenthaler-introduce-resolution-help-bring-russian-detainee-marc,"Kelly, Reschenthaler Introduce Resolution to Help Bring Russian Detainee Marc Fogel Home",2022-11-04,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-16) and Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) introduced a resolution of inquiry in response to the Biden Administration’s continued reluctance to designate Marc Fogel, a history teacher and Pittsburgh-area native imprisoned in Russia, as “wrongfully detained.” “After repeated congressional inquiries from both sides of the aisle, Marc Fogel's family deserves answers from the Biden Administration regarding Mr. Fogel’s potential designation as ‘wrongfully detained,’” said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA). “In addition to his grossly disproportionate 14-year sentence to a Russian maximum-security penal colony, Marc’s case certainly meets several of the other established criteria to be considered ‘wrongfully detained.’ With this resolution, it is my hope that the State Department will elevate this case, properly designate Marc as ‘wrongfully detained,’ and work to secure his timely release for Marc, his Western Pennsylvania family, and supporters across the globe.” “As a former district judge and U.S. Navy JAG, I know when I’m being stonewalled,” said Rep. Reschenthaler (R-PA). “It is indisputable Marc Fogel meets the definition of wrongfully detained under the Levinson criteria. Yet as his health rapidly deteriorates ahead of his transfer to a hard-labor penal colony, the Biden Administration is still making excuses rather than following the letter of the law. They owe Congress an explanation for their inaction.” “As the Russian government continues its hostilities toward Americans, we must have complete access to the full report regarding Mr. Fogel's detainment, trial, and sentencing,"" said Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA). ""It is imperative the State Department exhausts all efforts to return him to his family here in the United States."" “IUP fully supports the House Resolution of Inquiry proposed and advanced by Reps. Reschenthaler, Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, and Mike Kelly with the goal of ultimately ending IUP alumni Marc Fogel’s unjust, inequitable, and cruel detainment,” said Indiana University of Pennsylvania President Michael A. Driscoll. “Mr. Fogel is a valued IUP alumnus – a member of the IUP family – and we share the pain, sadness, and concern of his family and friends. We hope that the Biden Administration will take all steps possible to free Mr. Fogel and that the Russian government will release him. “ Specifically, this resolution would direct President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to provide the U.S. House of Representatives with copies of all documents relating to the Department of State’s review of the statutory criteria for Marc Fogel to be designated as “wrongfully detained,” based on the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act. This includes all documents, telephone records, audio recordings, and correspondence relating to this case within the possession of the Secretary. BACKGROUND Mr. Fogel is a Butler County, Pennsylvania native and taught history courses at schools attended by children of U.S. diplomats in Columbia, Venezuela, Oman, Malaysia, and Russia. In August 2021, he was detained at the Sheremetyevo Airport with a small amount of medical marijuana prescribed for his chronic back pain. In June 2022, he was sentenced to fourteen years of hard labor in a Russia prison, a sentence usually reserved for large-scale drug smugglers. Under federal law, Mr. Fogel meets at least six of the eleven established criteria to be designated as “wrongfully detained” by the State Department. Reps. Kelly and Thompson have signed on as original cosponsors. Read the resolution here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-receives-friend-farm-bureau-award,Reschenthaler Receives Friend of Farm Bureau Award,2022-11-04,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON. D.C. – Representative Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) received the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) “Friend of Farm Bureau” award for his legislative efforts and advocacy on behalf of Pennsylvania’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural communities. “I am honored to receive the American Farm Bureau’s “Friend of Farm Bureau” award,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “Agriculture is a critical component of America’s heritage and economy. I remain committed to promoting commonsense policies in Congress to support Pennsylvania’s farmers and ensure they have the ability to produce the food and fiber that fuels our nation.” “On behalf of Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, the state’s largest general farm organization, we’d like to thank U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler for supporting legislation that benefits agriculture,” said PFB President Rick Ebert. “The support from our Friend of Farm Bureau recipients helps preserve the future of family farms in Pennsylvania, maintain our ability to produce safe and affordable food for consumers, and provide resources to assist farmers in implementing environmentally friendly practices on the farm. Farm families have been greatly challenged in recent years, and continued support for agriculture is vital to ensure the future success of our industry.” Rep. Reschenthaler was nominated for AFBF’s “Friend of Farm Bureau” award by the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and approved by the AFBF Board of Directors. Rep. Reschenthaler received the award during a farmers’ town hall in New Stanton, Pennsylvania. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-introduces-resolution-help-bring-russian-detainee-marc-fogel,Reschenthaler Introduces Resolution to Help Bring Russian Detainee Marc Fogel Home,2022-11-03,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) introduced a resolution of inquiry in response to the Biden Administration’s continued reluctance to designate Marc Fogel, a history teacher and Pittsburgh-native imprisoned in Russia, as “wrongfully detained.” Representatives Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (PA-15) and Mike Kelly (PA-16) are original cosponsors of the resolution. “As a former district judge and U.S. Navy JAG, I know when I’m being stonewalled,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “It is indisputable Marc Fogel meets the definition of wrongfully detained under the Levinson criteria. Yet as his health rapidly deteriorates ahead of his transfer to a hard-labor penal colony, the Biden Administration is still making excuses rather than following the letter of the law. They owe Congress an explanation for their inaction.” “As the Russian government continues its hostilities toward Americans, we must have complete access to the full report regarding Mr. Fogel's detainment, trial, and sentencing,"" said Rep. Thompson. ""It is imperative the State Department exhausts all efforts to return him to his family here in the United States."" “After repeated congressional inquiries from both sides of the aisle, Marc Fogel's family deserves answers from the Biden Administration regarding Mr. Fogel’s potential designation as ‘wrongfully detained,’” said Rep. Kelly. “In addition to his grossly disproportionate 14-year sentence to a Russian maximum-security penal colony, Marc’s case certainly meets several of the other established criteria to be considered ‘wrongfully detained.’ With this resolution, it is my hope that the State Department will elevate this case, properly designate Marc as ‘wrongfully detained,’ and work to secure his timely release for Marc, his Western Pennsylvania family, and supporters across the globe.” “IUP fully supports the House Resolution of Inquiry proposed and advanced by Reps. Reschenthaler, Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, and Mike Kelly with the goal of ultimately ending IUP alumni Marc Fogel’s unjust, inequitable, and cruel detainment,” said Indiana University of Pennsylvania President Michael A. Driscoll. “Mr. Fogel is a valued IUP alumnus – a member of the IUP family – and we share the pain, sadness, and concern of his family and friends. We hope that the Biden Administration will take all steps possible to free Mr. Fogel and that the Russian government will release him. “ Specifically, this resolution would direct President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to provide the U.S. House of Representatives with copies of all documents relating to the Department of State’s review of the statutory criteria for Marc Fogel to be designated as “wrongfully detained,” based on the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act. This includes all documents, telephone records, audio recordings, and correspondence relating to this case within the possession of the Secretary. Background: Mr. Fogel is a Butler County, Pennsylvania native and taught history courses at schools attended by children of U.S. diplomats in Columbia, Venezuela, Oman, Malaysia, and Russia. In August 2021, he was detained at the Sheremetyevo Airport with a small amount of medical marijuana prescribed for his chronic back pain. In June 2022, he was sentenced to fourteen years of hard labor in a Russia prison, a sentence usually reserved for large-scale drug smugglers. Under federal law, Mr. Fogel meets at least six of the eleven established criteria to be designated as “wrongfully detained” by the State Department. At the beginning of August, Rep. Reschenthaler led a letter to Secretary Antony Blinken urging the State Department to immediately designate Mr. Fogel as “wrongfully detained” and ensure he is included in any negotiations to bring Americans imprisoned in Russia home. Earlier this week, Rep. Reschenthaler led another bipartisan, bicameral letter demanding the Biden Administration follow the Levinson Act criteria and prioritize Mr. Fogel’s release. Read the resolution here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/11/fitzpatrick-blumenauer-wicker-sinema-call-for-release-of-unobligated-funds-from-restaurant-revitalization-fund,"Fitzpatrick, Blumenauer, Wicker, Sinema Call for Release of Unobligated Funds from Restaurant Revitalization Fund",2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, November 1, 2022, U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Earl Blumenauer (OR-03) and Senators Roger Wicker (MS) and Kyrsten Sinema (AZ) sent a letter to Isabel Guzman, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, urging for a release of all unobligated funds from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) no later than November 14, 2022. The lawmakers wrote: “As the Congressional leaders of the bipartisan, bicameral Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act (H.R. 3807/S. 2091), we are requesting today that the Small Business Administration promptly communicate to Congress its plan to release all unobligated funds from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) and continue its thorough retrieval efforts of any misallocated or fraudulently accepted funds. “In July, a GAO report found that nearly $180 million in RRF dollars had not yet been disbursed. While the amount of outstanding and recaptured funds will not be able to provide support to every small business that requested relief, it is inexcusable for the SBA to not efficiently recover and dispense every single available dollar to help as many of our nation’s still struggling main street businesses. “We look forward to continuing to work with Administrator Guzman and the Small Business Administration to ensure that all available funds can be leveraged by eligible food service businesses in these still difficult financial times.” In addition to receiving bipartisan support, this letter is supported by the National Restaurant Association and the Independent Restaurant Coalition. “It can’t be underestimated how impactful this money could be for small business restaurants that applied for the RRF. The pandemic hit restaurants harder than every other industry, and while most businesses had the chance to fully recover, restaurant operators are still fighting to keep their heads above water. We appreciate the efforts of Sens. Sinema and Wicker, and Reps. Blumenauer and Fitzpatrick to push the SBA to provide answers about the money remaining in the RRF accounts. We’ve been asking the same questions since July. It’s imperative that the SBA steps up with answers and moves quickly to distribute the remaining funds to restaurants with pending applications,” said Sean Kennedy, executive vice president for Public Affairs, National Restaurant Association. “We are grateful to Representatives Fitzpatrick and Blumenauer and Senators Wicker and Sinema for their unwavering support for our industry. Nearly 200,000 small businesses applied for and did not receive a Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant last year. Distributing the remaining and recovered funds would be a ray of hope for many neighborhood restaurants and bars that have been on life support for more than two years. When restaurants close, our communities, local economies, and most of all, our workers lose jobs that provide unparalleled ladders of opportunity. Thank you to our champions in Washington, who have been working tirelessly to deliver real help to independent restaurants and bars nationwide,” said Erika Polmar, executive director at the Independent Restaurant Coalition. Read the full text of the letter here and below: We write today to respectfully request that the Small Business Administration (SBA) swiftly release its plan to release all unobligated funds from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) authorized under the American Rescue Plan Act (Pub. L. 117-2) to eligible applicants. It is vital that the agency prioritize this issue and provide relief to the nearly seven thousand applicants that were identified as grant awardees in 2021 but never received funding. In July 2022, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report entitled Restaurant Revitalization Fund: Opportunities Exist to Improve Oversight that stated that as of June 2022, $180 million of RRF funds remained unobligated. As you are no doubt aware, approximately 177,000 restaurants that applied to the program did not receive grants. We recognize that the balance of the unobligated RRF will not be able to provide support to every small business that requested relief, but it is inexcusable for the Small Business Administration to not dispense every single available dollar to help as many of our nation’s still struggling main street businesses. Beyond releasing remaining available funds, the SBA must continue conducting thorough retrieval efforts to recapture funding given to ineligible applicants, accepted fraudulently, or otherwise able to be returned. Once recovered, these dollars must immediately be disbursed to those eligible businesses that have applied for and need these grants. We request the SBA provide Congress with a detailed plan and timeline to distribute unobligated RRF funding as well as detailed information regarding the agency’s progress in retrieving misallocated funds and distributing those funds to eligible applicants no later than Monday, November 14, 2022. Thank you for your ongoing attention to this matter. We appreciate the role the SBA has played for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and look forward to working with you to ensure that all available funds can be leveraged by eligible food service businesses in these still difficult financial times. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/11/fitzpatrick-golden-gim,"Fitzpatrick, Golden, Giménez, Kildee Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Reauthorize Essential Firefighter Programs",2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jared Golden (D-ME), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), and Dan Kildee (D-MI) announced last Friday the introduction of the Fire Grants and Safety Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and increase federal resources for local fire departments across the nation. The legislation would boost critical federal funds for local fire departments to address staffing shortages, purchase new equipment, and improve training and emergency services. “Communities across our country rely on local fire departments to keep residents safe in the event of a life-threatening crisis,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to co-lead bipartisan legislation that will support volunteer fire departments and assist with volunteer recruitment and retention.” The federal funds from the Fire Grants and Safety Act would go toward the critical resources that our community fire departments in Pennsylvania need to act swiftly in an emergency. These dollars will allow for purchasing new equipment and training, raising firefighter salaries, and improving volunteer recruitment and retention. The Fire Grants and Safety Act would reauthorize funding for three key initiatives: the United States Fire Administration (USFA), the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. The bill is companion legislation to a bipartisan bill introduced in the Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH). “The Mainers who make up our fire departments put their lives on the line to protect their neighbors,” said Congressman Golden. “The federal government has a responsibility to ensure they have what they need to do their job and do it well. Increasing access to these resources – especially at a time of staff shortages throughout Maine – is just common sense. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help advance this funding for departments in the Second District and across the country.” “As a former fire fighter and Chief of the City of Miami Fire Rescue Department, I know firsthand how crucial these vital programs and resources are to adequately prepare firefighters to respond to emergencies and protect our communities,” said Congressman Giménez. “In the past, both Monroe County and Miami-Dade County have benefited immensely from such initiatives. In Congress, it is our responsibility to support firemen as they make every effort to keep communities in South Florida and across the country safe.” “Our fire fighters keep us safe, and we must ensure they have the resources necessary to protect our communities,” said Congressman Kildee. “That’s why I’m working with Republicans and Democrats to provide critical federal funding for local fire departments. This bipartisan legislation will support mid-Michigan fire departments and fire fighters so they can be ready when our community needs them.” Advocates and members of the national firefighting community voiced their support for the bill: “The IAFF is grateful to Representatives Golden, Kildee, Gimenez, and Fitzpatrick for introducing the Fire Grants and Safety Act, legislation that would reauthorize the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA),” said International Association of Fire Fighters General President Edward Kelly. “These programs are vital to ensuring fire departments are fully staffed by trained and equipped firefighters to respond to any emergency that threatens our communities. Studies and our own experiences have proven that proper staffing levels are key to safe and effective emergency responses. ""The IAFF also applauds these members of Congress for advancing legislation that would strengthen the USFA’s role in educating the fire service and gathering the data we need to better protect our communities. The IAFF urges Congress to pass this critical legislation at the first opportunity.” “NFPA is pleased to support the bipartisan efforts to reauthorize the U.S. Fire Administration as well as the AFG and SAFER grant programs that are so critical to first responders across our country,” said Jim Pauley, President and CEO of the National Fire Protection Association. “FSI thanks Representatives Golden, Gimenez, Kildee, and Fitzpatrick for introducing the House companion to the Fire Grants and Safety Act and we look forward to working with them to reauthorize AFG, SAFER, and USFA this Congress,” said Bill Webb, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute. “AFG and SAFER are vital to America’s fire and emergency services and help to support proper staffing, training, and equipping of fire and EMS personnel. In addition, the U.S. Fire Administration is an essential voice of the fire and emergency services at the federal level, working every day to provide data, research, education, and training to the fire and emergency services and the general public.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressional-korea-caucus-co-chairs-statement-tragedy-seoul-south-korea,"Congressional Korea Caucus co-Chairs Statement on the Tragedy in Seoul, South Korea",2022-11-02,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Ami Bera (D-CA), Joe Wilson (R-SC), the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Korea Caucus, released the following statement regarding the October 29 tragedy in Seoul, South Korea that took the lives of more than 150 people: “As Co-Chairs of the Congressional Korea Caucus, we join the world in sending our heartfelt condolences to the parents, families, and friends who lost loved ones in Seoul over the weekend. We mourn the loss of the many lives cut short by this tragedy and send our deepest sympathies to those grieving, including the family of Congressman Brad Wenstrup. Our alliance and friendship with the Republic of Korea is ironclad in both prosperity and adversity. We stand with the South Korean people during this difficult time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-lamb-casey-demand-biden-administration-fight-bring-russian,"Reschenthaler, Lamb, Casey Demand Biden Administration Fight to Bring Russian Detainee Marc Fogel Home",2022-11-01,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON. D.C. – U.S. Representatives Guy Reschenthaler?(PA-14), Conor Lamb (PA-17), and U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) led a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken demanding the State Department prioritize securing the release of Marc Fogel, an American teacher imprisoned in Russia. “I am deeply disappointed with the State Department’s refusal to classify Marc Fogel as wrongfully detained and its failure to prioritize him in discussions with Russian government officials about releasing Americans imprisoned in Russia,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “The Biden Administration must make every effort to bring all political prisoners home, whether they’re a celebrity athlete or a history teacher from Pittsburgh. I urge the State Department to dispense with this bureaucratic nonsense and work with us to reunite Marc Fogel with his family.” Mr. Fogel has been wrongfully detained for more than a year and it is time for the State Department to step up their efforts to secure his release,” said Rep. Lamb. “Mr. Fogel and his family need to know that the full weight of the United States government is behind the effort to secure his freedom.” In August, Rep. Reschenthaler led a letter to Sec. Blinken urging the State Department to immediately designate Mr. Fogel as wrongfully detained and ensure he is included in any negotiations to bring Americans imprisoned in Russia home. Despite this, the State Department still has not updated Mr. Fogel’s classification to “wrongfully detained.” Marc Fogel taught history at schools attended by children of U.S. diplomats in Columbia, Venezuela, Oman, Malaysia, and, for the last 10 years, Russia. In August 2021, he was arrested at the Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow for carrying a small amount of medical marijuana prescribed for his severe back injuries. He was sentenced to 14 years of hard labor in a Russian prison, a sentence usually reserved for large-scale drug smugglers and murderers. The bipartisan letter was signed by 25 members of Congress, including Senator Pat Toomey (R-PA) and Representatives Mike Doyle (PA-18), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Fred Keller (PA-12), Susan Wild (PA-7), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Madeleine Dean (PA-4), Dwight Evans (PA-3), Brendan Boyle (PA-2) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1). The full text of the letter can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-langevin-re-introduce-bill-strengthen-cybersecurity-education,"Thompson, Langevin Re-Introduce Bill to Strengthen Cybersecurity Education",2022-11-01,2022,2022-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"BELLEFONTE, Pa. – U.S. Representatives Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA) and Jim Langevin (D-RI), co-chairs of the Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, yesterday re-introduced the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act to mark the end of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This bipartisan legislation seeks to create a $10 million pilot program within the Department of Education that will award competitive grants to career and technical education programs that integrate cybersecurity into their curricula. In critical infrastructure sectors, like telecommunications, agriculture, or health care, a workforce with basic cybersecurity skills is essential to our public safety. Unfortunately, many training programs in these fields do not place the same emphasis on cybersecurity as they do on physical safety. By working to close the cybersecurity skills gap, this legislation will help better prepare our nation to defend our critical infrastructure from cyber threats. ""Our society is increasingly reliant on cyber technologies for our most critical infrastructure. As bad actors increase cyber-attacks, we must ensure we are protecting our most sensitive data,"" said Rep. Thompson, Co-Chair of the Career and Technical Education Caucus and senior Member on the House Committee of Education and Labor. ""This legislation empowers the next generation of learners to have the most sophisticated and comprehensive education to better protect our essential systems and assets for years to come."" ""Protecting our critical infrastructure from malicious hackers is a top national security priority, but we need a workforce equipped with the proper skills to do it,"" said Rep. Langevin, co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus and a senior member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. ""Now is the time to double down on our investments in CTE and cybersecurity education, so that we can develop the critical infrastructure workforce needed to meet the challenges of the 21st century. I thank my friend, Rep. Thompson, for his partnership on this critical legislation, and I look forward to advancing this bill throughout my final months in Congress."" ""Cyber technology is evolving daily, and with that, a skilled workforce capable of responding to critical threats is required,"" said ACTE Executive Director LeAnn Wilson. ""This legislation will help ensure that learners training at postsecondary institutions for these key positions will have the skills they need to be successful and enter a rewarding career path in protecting and maintaining critical infrastructure across the country. There is no better time to bring awareness to the need for cybersecurity professionals than Cybersecurity Awareness Month. ACTE would like to thank Congressmen Langevin and Thompson for their support and recognition of cybersecurity education."" ""Cybersecurity is our battlefield of the future, and ensuring the US Military is prepared is EANGUS's top priority,"" said Daniel Reilly, President of the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States of America. ""EANGUS applauds the work of Rep. Langevin and Rep. Thompson in ensuring our Servicemembers are not only ready but are given the best training the US Military can offer."" ""The National Technology Security Coalition (NTSC) is very excited to support the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act. As the organization representing the front-line practitioners of the cybersecurity world, we know how dire the need is for a fresh, diverse talent pool to join the cyber workforce,"" said Patrick Gaul, Executive Director of the National Technology Security Coalition. ""The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act will serve as a potent recruitment tool for young people interested in pursuing an education and a career in this critical field."" The bill also requires the Department of Education to coordinate with the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the defense of the nation's sixteen critical infrastructure sectors, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, which promotes a robust ecosystem of cybersecurity education and training, when awarding grants. To read the bill text, click here ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:24:37Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/10/fitzpatrick-announces-grant-for-the-hepatitis-b-foundation,Fitzpatrick Announces Grant for the Hepatitis B Foundation,2022-10-26,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA – On Friday, October 21, 2022, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced the Hepatitis B Foundation received a Community Project Funding (CPF) grant for the Hepatitis B Foundation’s Center of Public Health Excellence. The CPF was introduced by Congressman Fitzpatrick into the FY2022 Consolidated Appropriations Act as a part of the Community Project Funding program. This new initiative allows Members of Congress to target federal funds towards projects and programs within their congressional districts that will address the most significant needs facing the communities they represent. The project was selected because it will allow the Foundation to provide expert resources, training, and technical assistance on how to prevent, treat, and control Hepatitis B to state and local health departments, social service organizations, and community health providers. Furthermore, The Center will build public health infrastructure to decrease health disparities and improve health access and outcomes in underserved, disparately impacted communities of color, working toward the ultimate goal of Hepatitis B elimination. “Each year, up to 40,000 Americans become newly infected with Hepatitis B, with thousands dying from this infection. With the elimination of Hepatitis B in sight, we must continue to prioritize funding to find more effective treatments and ultimately a cure for this disease,” said Fitzpatrick. “As a member of the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus, I am proud to have a trailblazer in Hepatitis B research right here in Bucks County, but moreover, I am proud to have supported their community project request for the Center of Public Health Excellence, which supports the World Health Organization’s goal of eliminating Hepatitis B by 2030.” “We know at least 50,000 Pennsylvanians are living with chronic hepatitis B, many have the disease without knowing it, and about half of people diagnosed with this serious viral infection do not have access to sufficient healthcare,” said Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH, president of the Hepatitis B Foundation. “The work we are doing with this federal funding will get more Pennsylvanians vaccinated, diagnosed, and into good medical care to manage their infection. We are very appreciative of Congressman Fitzpatrick’s leadership and assistance in securing this valuable allocation.” The Hepatitis B Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure and improving the quality of life for those affected by Hepatitis B worldwide. The Foundation’s commitment includes funding focused research, promoting disease awareness, supporting immunization and treatment initiatives, and serving as the primary source of information for patients and their families, the medical and scientific community, and the general public. On October 12, 2022, Congressman Fitzpatrick announced the first PA-01 Community Project Funding for the Doylestown Health Foundation. On October 18, 2022, Congressman Fitzpatrick announced the second PA-01 Community Project Funding (CPF) for Woods Services. The Hepatitis B Foundation’s CPF is the third announcement. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/10/fitzpatrick-panetta-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-national-school-psychology-week,"Fitzpatrick, Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing National School Psychology Week",2022-10-24,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – On Friday, October 21, 2022, U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing the week of November 7, 2022, as National School Psychology Week. The resolution seeks to honor more than 35,000 school psychologists nationwide for their work in providing a supportive and encouraging learning environment for all students. “School psychologists work tirelessly to ensure our children are provided with the tools and resources they need to thrive, and they deserve our continued support,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside Rep. Panetta to reinforce and recognize the vital role our school psychologist play in the everyday lives and success of students across the United States. Additionally, I want to thank Dr. Szarko of Doylestown for her commitment to our students and our community, and I congratulate her on her success as the National School Psychologist of the Year.” “Our students continue to face mental health challenges, and rely on our school psychologists to address learning and behavioral health needs,” said Rep. Panetta. “I’m proud to introduce this Congressional resolution, which recognizes our school psychologists for the work they do in helping our students remain focused and support success. This resolution celebrates these mental health professionals and reminds us as Members of Congress of the need to fund these critical positions and support their work.” This resolution is supported by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), which represents more than 25,000 school psychologists who work with students, educators, and families to support the academic achievement, positive behavior, and mental wellness of all students, especially those who struggle with barriers to learning. “The National Association of School Psychologists and our 24,000+ members are grateful to Congressman Fitzpatrick and Congressman Panetta for their continued support of school psychologists in their districts and across the country. This resolution recognizing November 7-11 as National School Psychology Week is a testament to the incredible and important work of school psychologists in our schools and communities. We are critical members of schools’ mental health support staff and help all students shine and thrive together. We look forward to continuing our work with Congress to address the shortage of school psychologists and other mental health professionals so we can meet the needs of all students,” said Celeste Malone, President of the National Association of School Psychologists. Dr. Julia Szarko, of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, was named the 2021 National School Psychologist of the Year for her work as a school psychologist in the Central Bucks School District. “Being a school psychologist is not just a career choice, it is a calling that is honorable, rewarding, impactful, meaningful, and difference-making. This job is not for the lighthearted; it requires carrying the weight of what we face day to day to meet the mental health needs of our students and break down the many barriers to learning, especially these past two years. It requires digging deep at times to get through overwhelming deadlines and demands, an urgency to meet children’s needs, and resolving the difference between best practices in school psychology and the state of the reality of the ‘real world.’ For me and I know many of my fellow school psychologists, it’s finding joy and making a difference for children and families that sustains us. Our careers are so purposefully driven and what a gift it is to go to a job everyday where we are able to invest in children, adults, and families and impact positive change. On behalf of my colleagues across the nation, thank you for joining in our celebration during National School Psychology Week; we appreciate your support and recognition beyond words,” said Dr. Julia Szarko, National School Psychologist of the Year 2021. Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/10/fitzpatrick-castro-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-oversight-and-accountability-of-u-s-foreign-aid-programs,"Fitzpatrick, Castro Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Oversight and Accountability of U.S. Foreign Aid Programs",2022-10-21,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Joaquin Castro (TX-20)introduced the Enhancing Development Finance Corporation Oversight Act of 2022, bipartisan legislation that would improve oversight and accountability of U.S. foreign aid programs by granting law enforcement authority to the Office of Inspector General of the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC OIG). ""As the agency tasked with making America a stronger and more competitive leader on the global stage, it is imperative that The International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) be given law enforcement authority in order to properly provide oversight of their programs,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""This bipartisan legislation will allow the DFC to continue its global efforts while reducing unnecessary misuse of resources and I am proud to join my colleague Rep. Castro to introduce this critical piece of legislation to enhance accountability of our foreign aid programs."" “As the Development Finance Corporation works to improve global standards of living, its Inspector General should be fully empowered to ensure that U.S. international development programs are managed with integrity and accountability,” said Congressman Castro. “The Enhancing Development Finance Corporation Oversight Act will help eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in foreign aid programs and allow the U.S. to set a stronger example of good governance. I thank Rep. Fitzpatrick for his partnership on this bill and encourage the Senate to retain this bipartisan reform in the final FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act.” In 2018, Congress created the Development Finance Corporation and established the DFC OIG through the Better Utilization of Investment Leading to Development (BUILD) Act. However, law enforcement authorities for inspectors general are granted separately through the Inspector General Act of 1978, which directly grants law enforcement authority to some inspectors general and outlines a process by which the U.S. Attorney General can delegate law enforcement authority to others. Until the dedicated OIG for DFC became operational in 2020, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) OIG provided oversight for DFC programs. While the USAID OIG has law enforcement authority, the DFC OIG currently does not. The Department of Justice has indicated that it has no objections to providing law enforcement authority to the DFC OIG but has not moved to grant such authority. In July 2022, Rep. Castro secured an amendment in the FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to add DFC OIG to the list of federal agency inspectors general with law enforcement authority granted in statute. The legislation introduced today demonstrates the continued bipartisan support for this amendment and emphasizes the need for the Senate to retain the House-passed language in the FY 2023 NDAA conference. The bill text for the Enhancing Development Finance Corporation Oversight Act of 2022 can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-presents-gannon-university-500000-community-project-funding,"Rep. Kelly presents Gannon University with $500,000 in Community Project Funding",2022-10-21,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ERIE, PA -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) presented Gannon University with $500,000 in Community Project Funding the university received in the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. The funding is designated toward the Institute for Health and Cyber Knowledge at Gannon University (IHACK) Program. This funding will be used to create a STEM pathway for middle and high school students in the National Youth Cyber Education Program and provide undergraduate and graduate degree programs in engineering fields, among other initiatives. These programs will improve workforce development and prepare students for well-paying jobs in fields that need qualified workers. ""The team at Gannon University has been instrumental in developing the IHACK program,"" Kelly said. ""Building and preparing a strong workforce -- even before our young people start college -- is essential to any community thriving, and this funding will help Gannon achieve those goals."" BACKGROUND Congressional leaders resumed Community Project Funding (CPF), formerly known as 'earmarks', for the 117th Congress. With increased transparency and stricter guidelines, lawmakers were permitted to submit specific funding requests during the budget process. Rep. Kelly fielded input from local leaders throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania before selecting these projects. Of the ten (10) requests Rep. Kelly was allotted, eight (8) were selected in fiscal year 2022. Rep. Kelly's FY2023 projects totaled nearly $25 million. Details on CPF rules and guidelines can be found here. This funding comes after Rep. Kelly delivered two BUILD Grants in 2020 for the 16th Congressional District, including $25 million for improvements along State Route 228 in Butler County, and $21 million for the City of Erie's Bayfront Parkway Project.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-presents-united-way-titusville-region-55000-community-project,"Rep. Kelly presents United Way of the Titusville Region $55,000 in Community Project Funding",2022-10-21,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"TITUSVILLE, PA -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) presented the United Way of the Titusville Region with $55,000 in Community Project Funding they received in the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. The funding is designated for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. The program that would be supported by this funding works to improve literacy among young children by expanding access to books. The Early Learner Success Initiative has enrolled 188 children, graduated 31 children, and has mailed over 1,700 books. Literacy foundation is crucial to brain development for children under five years old and research has shown there is a return on investment. Children that participate in early learning programs have been shown to experience greater educational success and more ambitious career goals. ""Providing more books and expanding educational opportunities, especially among our youngest readers, is a critical building block,"" Kelly said. ""Thank you to the team at the United Way of Titusville Region for reaching out to us. This funding will go a long way toward helping the young people of the Titusville area."" BACKGROUND Congressional leaders resumed Community Project Funding (CPF), formerly known as 'earmarks', for the 117th Congress. With increased transparency and stricter guidelines, lawmakers were permitted to submit specific funding requests during the budget process. Rep. Kelly fielded input from local leaders throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania before selecting these projects. Of the ten (10) requests Rep. Kelly was allotted, eight (8) were selected in fiscal year 2022. Rep. Kelly's FY2023 projects totaled nearly $25 million. Details on CPF rules and guidelines can be found here. This funding comes after Rep. Kelly delivered two BUILD Grants in 2020 for the 16th Congressional District, including $25 million for improvements along State Route 228 in Butler County, and $21 million for the City of Erie's Bayfront Parkway Project.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/10/tonko-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-empower-communities-with-resilience-mental-wellness,"Fitzpatrick, Tonko Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Empower Communities with Resilience & Mental Wellness",2022-10-19,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Paul Tonko (D-NY) introduced the Community Mental Wellness & Resilience Act, a bipartisan bill that will tackle the nation’s mental health crisis head-on by addressing the extensive community trauma caused by natural disasters. This innovative legislation will empower communities through a new federal grant program to craft their own locally specific responses to the mental health problems caused by disasters and toxic stresses. “In 2021, more than forty percent of Americans lived in a county that was impacted by a natural disaster,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “As a result, the number of individuals who experienced a mental health problem often outweighed those with physical injuries. That is why I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation alongside my colleague, Representative Tonko, to expand our nation’s mental health care services on a local level.” “In 2021 alone, more than 1 in 5 American adults experienced a diagnosed mental illness,” Congressman Tonko said. “And with more than 40 percent of Americans living in a county impacted by a major natural disaster last year and countless more living with toxic stresses, it is increasingly clear that worsening severe weather patterns are contributing to this crisis. Natural disasters bring significant upheaval and real trauma to our communities, and it is time for Congress to take action to empower those communities to respond to this growing challenge. I’m proud to lead the way on this resilience building legislation that will help address our nation’s mental health crisis through grants and partnerships with local, community-based initiatives. I’ll continue to work to deliver science-based, evidence-informed solutions that benefit communities across our region and our nation.” In addition to the studies showing that nearly 50 million American adults suffered from a diagnosed mental illness last year, a 2022 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) survey found that more than a third of American high school students reported poor mental health, including stress, anxiety, and depression. Natural disasters only exacerbate the problem, with surveys showing more than 40 percent of those directly impacted by a disaster traumatized by the experience. Consequently, the number of people who experience a mental health problem as a result of a natural disaster often outweigh those with physical injuries by 40 to 1. The Community Mental Wellness & Resilience Act addresses this growing problem by: Establishing a competitive grant program at the CDC to create, operate, or expand community-based programs that use a public health approach to build mental wellness and resilience These programs will work to enhance the capacity of all residents for mental wellness and resilience to prevent and heal mental health problems generated by disasters and toxic stresses Community initiatives will develop their own age and culturally appropriate strategies to enhance and sustain population-level mental wellness and resilience, with specific attention to high-risk individuals The legislation has garnered support from Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL), who is an original cosponsor, as well as more than 100 organizations, including: American Lung Association; American Public Health Association; American Psychiatric Association; American Psychological Association, ecoAmerica; Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice; Climate Psychiatry Alliance; International Transformational Resilience Coalition (ITRC); Mental Health America; National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI); The National Association of Social Workers (NASW); National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors; National Council for Mental Wellbeing. A list of supporting organizations and organization quotes can be found HERE. A fact sheet on the legislation can be found HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T18:34:28Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/10/fitzpatrick-announces-grant-for-the-woods-services-mental-health-program,Fitzpatrick Announces Grant for the Woods Services Mental Health Program,2022-10-18,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA – Friday, October 14, 2022, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced Woods Services received a Community Project Funding (CPF) grant for the Woods Services Specialized Outpatient Mental Health Services for People with Intellectual Disability and Mental Health Conditions Program. The CFP was introduced by Congressman Fitzpatrick into the FY2022 Consolidated Appropriations Act as a part of the Community Project Funding program. This new initiative allows Members of Congress to target federal funds towards projects and programs within their congressional districts that will address the most significant needs facing the communities they represent. The funding will be used for a specialized mental health outpatient program, which will incorporate a mobile mental health unit that will provide in-home, crisis intervention, and ongoing training and support for families and caregivers. The project was selected because it will bridge the gap in mental health services in Bucks County. The mental health outpatient program is expected to reduce costs associate with unnecessary ER visits and hospitalizations and improve the quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities and mental health conditions within the community. “As our nation begins to heal from this pandemic, we cannot forget about the mental health crises that have been exacerbated by COVID and will be left in its wake,” said Fitzpatrick. “As the Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Addiction and Mental Health Task Force in Congress, I am proud to support a trusted health and human services organization, like Woods Services, who are best suited to deliver these much-needed new mental health services to those with intellectual disabilities, autism, and complex behavioral needs.” “We are grateful to Congressman Fitzpatrick and SAMHSA for recognizing the critical need for quality outpatient mental health services in Lower Bucks County. Nearly 2,000 people diagnosed with intellectual disabilities residing in Bucks County are also diagnosed with mental health disorders,” said Tine Hansen-Turton, President and CEO, Woods Services. “The vast majority of these individuals cannot find help nearby. Building on Woods existing population health services and strong network of care, Woods will use the grant to open a specialized mental health outpatient program to serve children and adults with intellectual disabilities and autism who are in need of outpatient mental health services. The Center will offer a robust array of outpatient services including psychiatric and diagnostic assessments; medication review and coordination; individual, group and family therapies; behavioral health supports; psychiatric; and complex condition nurse navigation. The expectation is that Woods will prevent people from being in crisis and allow them to fully access community life, thus improving the quality of life for all community members.” Woods Services is a Pennsylvania and New Jersey-based non-profit population health network and advocacy organization that along with its six affiliate organizations provides life-long innovative, comprehensive and integrated health, education, housing, workforce, behavioral health and case management services to more than 22,000 children and adults in the intellectual and developmental disability, child welfare, behavioral and brain trauma public health sectors who have complex and intensive medical and behavioral healthcare needs. Woods applies evidenced-based treatments and a public health approach to develop innovative and individualized supports that empower people with disabilities and challenges to reach their highest potential. On October 12, 2022, Congressman Fitzpatrick announced the first PA-01 Community Project Funding (CPF) for the Doylestown Health Foundation. The Woods Services CPF is the second announcement ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-hosts-annual-school-safety-seminar-greenville,Kelly hosts annual School Safety Seminar in Greenville,2022-10-18,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Last Friday, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) hosted his annual School Safety Seminar at Thiel College in Greenville, Pa. The Seminar brings school officials together with law enforcement to discuss ways schools within Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District can be fortified from both outside and inside threats, along with developing security and emergency response plans. Experts from the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Administration joined Rep. Kelly to help answer questions. More than 70 school district officials, parents, and other leaders registered to attend the event. ""Young people are 25% of our population, but they are 100% of our future,"" Kelly said. ""This annual event offers local leaders the chance to learn important skills and information to keep our schools safe and secure. I appreciate school officials, especially our local school board members, for attending this seminar."" The event was open to all responsible for school safety, including administrators, guidance counselors, law enforcement, safety professionals, school board members and more. From preventive and protective measures to response and recovery tactics, the seminar covered a comprehensive list of topics relevant to the challenges our schools face.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-presents-wilmington-area-school-district-55000-community-project-funding,"Kelly presents Wilmington Area School District with $55,000 in Community Project Funding",2022-10-18,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NEW WILMINGTON, PA -- On Monday, October 17, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) presented the Wilmington Area School District with $55,000 in Community Project Funding for the district's computer and robotics curriculum. This money would allow the district to implement a computer science curriculum for grades 5, 6 and middle school students. The money was included in the fiscal year 2022 budget and was among $8.5 million in Community Project Funding Kelly secured for the 16th Congressional District. During the stop, Kelly participated in a robotics demonstration with students and met with Wilmington faculty and administrators. ""When we invest in our children, we invest in our future,"" Kelly said. ""I want to thank everyone involved at the Wilmington Area School District for coming to us with this request and allowing us to help students with this critical computer science program. I enjoyed meeting with the kids and seeing firsthand just how this money will improve their education. I look forward to seeing this curriculum grow and serve future generations of students."" BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/10/fitzpatrick-announces-grant-for-the-doylestown-hospital-infant-protection-project,Fitzpatrick Announces Grant for the Doylestown Hospital Infant Protection Project,2022-10-12,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA – Today, October 12, 2022, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced the Doylestown Health Foundation received a Community Project Funding (CPF) grant for the Doylestown Hospital Infant Protection Project. The CFP was introduced by Congressman Fitzpatrick into the FY2022 Consolidated Appropriations Act as a part of the Community Project Funding program. This new initiative allows Members of Congress to target federal funds towards projects and programs within their congressional districts that will address the most significant needs facing the communities they represent. The funding will be used for infant protection equipment and software for the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown (VIA) Maternity Center at Doylestown Hospital. These tag transponders – which are attached to babies after delivery, as well as the mother if they choose – offer tamper detection, exit detection and continual supervision to prevent infant abduction. They also monitor the environment for potential sources of network interference. This vital medical technology would be used to protect newborns at Doylestown Hospital, and would likely be extended to NICU babies and pediatric patients, if necessary. “Since its founding, Doylestown Health has been a staple in the Central Bucks community. With over 1,200 deliveries annually and hundreds of additional pediatric patients admitted each year, it is essential that Doylestown Health receives the much-needed support to carry out their operation,” said Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to have supported the Infant Protection Project – especially considering this serves the maternity ward which is one of the few locations in the hospital individuals are excited to visit!”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-ernst-marshall-mcclain-demand-nsf-and-nih-terminate-grant,"Reschenthaler, Ernst, Marshall, McClain Demand NSF and NIH Terminate Grant Funding for EcoHealth Alliance",2022-10-10,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler?(PA-14), Senator Joni K. Ernst (R-IA), Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), and Representative Lisa McClain (MI-10) led letters to the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) condemning the agencies’ recent decisions to award grant funding to the EcoHealth Alliance, Inc. (EcoHealth). The New York nonprofit, led by Peter Daszak, has funneled nearly $1.7 million in federal tax dollars to the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) and repeatedly failed to comply with federal law and reporting requirements for federal grants. NSF recently awarded a $1 million grant for a project that will include EcoHealth Alliance for Predictive Intelligence for Pandemic Prevention. Additionally, NSF plans to award another grant to EcoHealth for $263,801 in January 2023. The letter, signed by 40 members of Congress, requests that NSF terminate its grant relationship with EcoHealth and asks oversight questions regarding how EcoHealth was selected for this project. NIH announced a five-year grant beginning with an award of $653,392 to conduct more studies on coronaviruses from bats in Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. The letter, signed by 30 members of Congress, details EcoHealth Alliance’s history of grant compliance failure and concerning lack of transparency, and requests NIH end their grant relationship with EcoHealth. “It is a gross abuse of hardworking Americans’ tax dollars to continue to fund EcoHealth Alliance,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “EcoHealth and its president, Peter Daszak, are complicit in failing to comply with federal law and collaborating with a Chinese Communist Party secret laboratory. I am proud to work with Sen. Ernst, Sen. Marshall, and Rep. McClain on holding the Biden Administration accountable to end this relationship with this negligent organization.” “Because EcoHealth broke federal laws, withheld evidence, and conducted dangerous research in unsafe conditions, this group should never be trusted to put its hands on taxpayer dollars or bats ever again,” said Sen. Ernst. “Let’s defund EcoHealth and launch a real scientific investigation to find out once and for all what was really happening in Wuhan, China so the same mistakes are never repeated again.” “NIH and NSF chose risk over responsibility by funding Peter Daszak and EcoHealth Alliance. Instead of enforcing oversight, NIH escorted Peter Daszak and EcoHeath Alliance around it and both of these science agencies walked them straight to the pot of taxpayer gold,"" said Sen. Marshall. “Until proper risk assessment procedures for U.S. research grants are restored, not a single cent of federal funding should go towards viral, dangerous gain-of-function research.” “Under no circumstances should the United States send tax dollars to labs run by the Chinese Communist Party,” said Rep. McClain. “EcoHealth Alliance has a long history of funneling money to CCP labs and continuing to fund this organization is a blatant misuse of federal dollars and a slap in the face to every single American. I am joining my colleagues in urging the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation to cut all ties with EcoHealth and ensure our tax dollars are not funding these scandal-ridden labs.” The letter to NSF can be viewed here. The letter to NIH can be viewed here. Background on EcoHealth & WIV: The WIV is a Chinese Communist Party high-containment laboratory and the likely origin of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the State Department, the WIV has conducted classified research on behalf of the Chinese military. Since 2004, EcoHealth and its president, Peter Daszak, have collaborated with the WIV. Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dazsak withheld critical information and pushed false narratives to hide the true origins of the pandemic. In 2021, the U.S. Agency for International Development acknowledged that EcoHealth provided $1.1 million to the WIV from October 2009 to May 2019. This funding utilized gain-of-function research to create a hybrid, man-made virus by inserting a spiked protein from a wild coronavirus into a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV backbone, which could infect human airways by binding to the ACE2. Additionally, between 2015 and 2019, the WIV received approximately $598,500 from EcoHealth for a National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases funded study on the risk of bat coronavirus emergence. In the 117th Congress, Rep. Reschenthaler and Sen. Ernst introduced bicameral legislation to prohibit federal funding to the EcoHealth Alliance. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/editorial-biden-and-democrats-are-fighting-against-fed,Editorial: Biden and The Democrats Are Fighting Against the Fed,2022-10-07,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"I have many concerns about the Biden administration’s management, policy initiatives and leadership, including their approach to the economy and working with the Federal Reserve (Fed). Biden Democrats' combination of spending since early 2021 and their assault on American energy production ignited inflation. Since the spending and high gasoline, diesel, and home heating costs continue to be inflated, farming, building, manufacturing, and shipping costs have greatly increased. This has been a recipe for the highest level of continued inflation since 1981. In response to Biden’s economic crisis, the Fed has just recently cut back its quantitative easing or “increasing the money supply” via bond purchases and other means. This move is too little, too late. The Fed erroneously doubled down on Biden Democrats spending spree virtually ignoring the trillions being created through legislation and executive order. Instead, frankly inconceivably, the Feds own stimulus plans increased the money supply by 30%. The Feds reasoning is that they feared an economic slowdown post-Covid. The Fed miscalculated as the economy was growing early in 2021. The combination of Biden democrats spending, and Fed stimulus created inflation by having “far too many dollars chasing too few goods.” The other mistake made was not factoring in the Biden Democrats assault on fossil fuels. This caused a hyper increase in gasoline prices which once losing our energy independence any geopolitical event would have severe impacts on the price of energy. Enter Vladimir Putin. If we were energy independent, very simply our fuel costs would not have increased anywhere near the level they did. We would have been in control. Not OPEC and not Putin. This is in the past, however. What concerns me currently is how we plan to move forward. Jerome Powell, the Fed chairman, seems to regularly look at the early 80’s, under Paul Volcker, as the model for correcting today’s inflation. Volcker’s blunt inflationary weapon was interest rates. Such actions at the time sent our economy into two recessions but did eventually abate inflation albeit by beating down the economy. However, to counter that the pro-growth tax reductions initiated by President Reagan is what lead to the economic growth of the 80’s. Reagan understood that incentivizing a competitive business climate, having supply meet demand rather than killing demand, would reduce inflation. My concern is that Powell even regularly quotes Volcker's book, “Keeping At It.” Additionally, that Biden Democrats and the many left-wing economists to whom they listen to recommend raising taxes. This is the worst thing to do when we need to reignite American manufacturing and production. Higher interest rates also strengthen the dollar, which makes our exports more expensive, crushes the stock market, and increases our federal deficit as the cost of servicing our $30 trillion debt goes up. There are many differences to consider between today’s economy and that of the early 80’s. At that time, we had close to a balanced budget even with increasing of defense spending, we reduced federal income taxes, and tightened the money supply. Today, the Biden Administration and the Fed are running counter to each other. As stated, the Fed has recently ramped down its balance sheet and reduced stimulus spending. The problem is that the Biden Democrats have not. Trillions from all their spending bills have yet to be unleashed in the economy. So, the Biden Democrats are effectively negating, running counter to, and fighting against the Fed. This weakens the effect of higher interest rates and will cause rates to be extra high to achieve the intended result of lowering inflation. This is a very dangerous economic plan. We will suffer all the harsh effects of a prolonged recession without a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-congressman-thompson-receives-trio-outstanding-advocate-award,ICYMI: Congressman Thompson Receives ‘TRiO Outstanding Advocate’ Award,2022-10-06,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"STATE COLLEGE, Pa.– U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson joined the Pennsylvania Association of TRiO Programs Tuesday at its 50th anniversary conference in State College, Pennsylvania. U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson receives the TRiO Outstanding Advocate Award from Michele Lagnese, TRIO Legislative Affairs Committee Chair ""It was an honor to be recognized at the 50th anniversary conference of the Pennsylvania Association of TRiO Programs and receive the Outstanding Advocate award,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""Children from disadvantaged families often struggle to access important mentoring, tutoring, and other hands-on services designed to encourage high school completion and the pursuit of post-secondary education. I remain dedicated to ensuring Pennsylvanians – and all Americans – have access to educational opportunities and will continue to advocate for policies and funding to support TRiO programs."" ""We are extremely grateful for Congressman Thompson's continued support of TRiO programs. We appreciate his taking the time to join us at PA TRiO's 50th anniversary celebration and his encouraging and poignant remarks. We look forward to continuing this working relationship in support of first-generation, income-eligible students,"" said Eron McMillen, PA TRiO Board President. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-honors-zelienople-woman-community-champion,Kelly honors Zelienople woman as 'Community Champion',2022-10-04,2022,2022-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ZELIENOPLE, Pa. -- On Tuesday, October 4, 2022, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) presented his latest 2022 Community Champion Award to Adel Fatur of Zelienople, Pa. at the Zelienople Historical Society. Rep. Kelly is recognizing Ms. Fatur for her volunteer work throughout Zelienople and Butler County, notably her efforts to bring the traveling Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to Zelienople; and her volunteer service with local organizations, including the Red Hat Society and Zelienople Historical Society. She is perhaps best known throughout Butler County as the ""Flag Lady"" for selling and placing flags at the 4 Corners Park in July 2021. Not only did she exceed her flag goal, but her effort landed Zelienople into the Guinness Book of World Records. ""Adel exemplifies what it means to be a Community Champion,"" Kelly said. ""As I started to learn more about what she has done for the Zelienople area, I had to ask myself 'what hasn't she done?' I'm proud to honor Adel with this award because her selfless acts are improving the community and Butler County as a whole. We need more people like Adel Fatur.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:20:33Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-statement-democrats-funding-bill,Dr. Joyce Statement on Democrats’ Funding Bill,2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13) released the following statement on the passage of Senate Amendment to H.R. 6833 – FY23 Continuing Resolution: “Pennsylvanians do not have the luxury of going over-budget and indulging in wish-list-spending-sprees, and neither should progressives in Congress. This legislation would only serve to fund yet another liberal-spending spree that fails to address the challenges that we face. With no additional funding to help our border patrol, to fight rising crime, or to stop the flow of illegal drugs into our community, I could not support this legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-issues-statement-continuing-resolution-vote,Kelly Issues Statement on Continuing Resolution Vote,2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (PA-16) issued the following statement regarding the vote on the Senate Amendment to H.R. 6833, the Continuing Resolution: “Every American family must operate within the constraints of a limited, predictable budget so they can make responsible decisions about how to spend and save money. Congress should operate no differently. Over the past several years, Congress has gotten into the bad habit of nearing a government shutdown and passing a short-term CR to kick the can down the road. This reckless practice leads to rushed decisions and poor policies. As a small business owner, I know how important it is to keep the government open, but we cannot continue to spend money carelessly without going through the Constitutional process.” BACKGROUND On September 29, 2022, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 6833 by a vote of 72-25. On September 30, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 6833 by a vote of 230-201. This Continuing Resolution funds the U.S. government through December 16, 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-opposes-irresponsible-spending-measure,Smucker Opposes Irresponsible Spending Measure,2022-09-30,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) voted against the Senate Amendment to H.R. 6833 and released the following statement: ""Congress is yet again considering a short-term continuing resolution to fund the government. Congress has been averaging five continuing resolutions per year. It is an irresponsible way to run our government. We must get our nation's fiscal house in order. The American taxpayers deserve better stewardship of their hard-earned dollars than Congress is currently providing,"" said Rep. Lloyd Smucker. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-announces-100000-grant-help-fight-drug-crisis,"Dr. Joyce Announces $100,000 Grant to Help Fight Drug Crisis",2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13) announced that UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Twin Lakes Center, in collaboration with the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and Career Link, will be awarded $100,000 for the “Recovery to Work” program through the U.S Department of Health and Human Services. This project was introduced by Congressman Joyce through Community Project Funding – a program that allows Members of Congress to directly advocate for projects important to their constituents. “The dedication demonstrated by UPMC, as well as the Somerset Chamber of Commerce and Career Link, to serve members of our community is exceptional,” said Dr. Joyce. “I was proud to advocate for this project in Congress, and I am pleased to see these resources go towards supporting recovery efforts in our community.” “Recovery to Work '' is a program that prepares individuals with at least six months of recovery to learn valuable skills or trades needed to gain employment and begin working in a family-sustaining job here in Pennsylvania’s 13th District. Participants practice their interviewing and communication skills, as well as learn how to handle difficult or new workplace situations. The program also includes a strong focus on family involvement through support groups. This funding will be used to expand the program into Johnstown and Cambria County. Community Funding Projects are congressionally directed spending for local or state priorities. See all of the projects Congressman Joyce has proposed here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-announces-over-800000-assistance-firefighters-grant-awards-fire,"Dr. Joyce Announces Over $800,000 in Assistance to Firefighters Grant Awards for Fire Departments",2022-09-29,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13) announced that seven firehouses across Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Franklin, and Westmoreland counties will receive the Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Award. In total, the seven departments received $834,081.88 in funding. “Our firefighters and first responders work tirelessly to keep our communities safe,” said Dr. Joyce. “However, they are often burdened by a lack of resources that can leave our communities venerable. Through AFG grants, I’m proud to be working alongside our emergency workers to help ensure they have the equipment they need to save and protect the residents of Pennsylvania’s 13th Congressional District. The following fire departments in Pennsylvania’s 13th Congressional District recently received grants: Biglerville Hose and Truck Co 1, Adams County: $94,633.33 for Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA) and Personal Protective Gear Saxton Area Volunteer Fire Company, Bedford County: $85,714.28 for Personal Protective Equipment Geeseytown Community Fire Company, Blair County: $197,600 for Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA) and Personal Protective Gear Lakemont Volunteer Fire Company, Blair County: $16,600 for rescue equipment Cover Hill Volunteer Fire Company, Cambria County: $125,409.52 for portable radios and turnout gear- worn by firefighters while responding to emergencies East Taylor Volunteer Fire Company, Cambria County: $261,904.76 for a Mini-Pumper Quick Attack Truck Fannett and Metal Fire and Ambulance Company, Franklin County: $19,224.76 for EMS Training kits and rescue equipment Youngstown Volunteer Fire Department and Relief Association, Westmoreland County: $32,995.23 for new fire hoses The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program is designed to support both the firefighting and emergency management needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations. Learn more about the AFG Program from fema.gov here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-congressional-childhood-cancer-caucus-hosts-its-13th-annual-summit,"Kelly, Congressional Childhood Cancer Caucus Hosts its 13th Annual Summit",2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Michael McCaul (R-TX), Jackie Speier (D-CA), and G.K. Butterfield (D-NC) hosted the 13th Annual Childhood Cancer Summit where they gathered with advocates, doctors, and survivors to raise awareness for the pediatric cancer community. Additionally, the incoming co-chairs for the Childhood Cancer Caucus, Representatives Kathy Castor (D-FL) and Ami Bera (D-CA) attended the summit. “The main goal each year of the Childhood Cancer Caucus is to raise awareness for the most vulnerable among us,” said Rep. Kelly, co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus. “I believe we accomplished our goal once again. The Summit highlighted the great progress we have made, but also how there is more work we can do in Congress to help children battling these life-threatening illnesses. I am committed to working with my colleagues on the Caucus and here in Congress to provide additional funding so we can end childhood cancer.” “It was an inspiring and emotional week on Capitol Hill as we gathered with advocates, survivors, and health care professionals to raise awareness for childhood cancer,” said Rep. Michael McCaul, founder and co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus. “Each year, it is an honor to host the passionate childhood cancer community for the summit and show how Congress is working to help them in their fight. When this caucus first began, there were only two treatments for pediatric cancer. Now, there are over 20, and funding for research for children with cancer has steadily increased during that time. I am proud to be a voice for children battling this disease, and I won’t stop until we’ve beaten cancer."" “The Childhood Cancer Summit and the Childhood Cancer Caucus are proof that Congress still works when we work together,” said Rep. Jackie Speier, co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus. “Our bipartisan Childhood Cancer STAR Act, passed in 2018, has provided hundreds of millions of dollars for research and to improve survivorship. It includes my bill, the Childhood Cancer Survivors Quality of Life Act, which expands the role of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and invested $80 million in the NCI for research and $30 million in STAR Act programs for Fiscal Year 2022. I’m immensely proud of all that this caucus has achieved and continuing our life-saving work.” “We have made great strides, yet the fight against childhood cancer is far from over,” said Rep G. K. Butterfield, co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus. “During my time in Congress as a co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus, I have been deeply inspired by the families who have led this fight against childhood cancer, particularly the children. Sometimes, the smallest voices can make the biggest difference. Our brave patients and their families are the driving force behind our efforts here in Congress, and as I head towards the end of my time as a Member of Congress, I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of the inspiring women and men that I’ve met along the way who are dedicated to this noble fight. It was an absolute pleasure to serve as co-chair of the caucus and to join everyone for the 13th Childhood Cancer Summit.” “It was an honor to join such a passionate group of advocates at the Childhood Cancer Summit to discuss our work in Congress to fund research and treatments in the fight to eradicate childhood cancer,” said Rep. Castor, incoming co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus. “I am grateful to be joining my bipartisan colleagues in the 118th Congress as a co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus to continue pushing for policies that support the health and well-being of kids with cancer, their families, and the institutions and medical professionals that serve them.” “It was inspiring to join my fellow colleagues, doctors, and the pediatric cancer community for the 13th Annual Childhood Cancer Summit,” said Rep. Ami Bera, incoming co-chair of the Childhood Cancer Caucus. “The Summit was an opportunity to reflect on the important advancements in pediatric cancer care and to renew our shared commitment to defeating childhood cancer. As a physician, I am excited to be joining the Childhood Cancer Caucus to pursue bipartisan policies that support treatments and cures for childhood cancers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-host-annual-school-safety-seminar-greenville,Rep. Kelly to host annual School Safety Seminar in Greenville,2022-09-28,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced his annual School Safety Seminar will be held on Friday, October 14, 2022 at 10:00a.m. ET at Thiel College in Greenville, Pa. Experts from the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Administration will be joining Rep. Kelly to help answer questions. The public is encouraged to attend. The event is open to all responsible for school safety, including administrators, guidance counselors, law enforcement, safety professionals, school board members and more. From preventive and protective measures to response and recovery tactics, the seminar will cover a comprehensive list of topics relevant to the challenges our schools face.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/meuser-attends-commitment-america-rollout,"Meuser Attends ""Commitment to America"" Rollout",2022-09-23,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Monongahela, PA _ U.S Congressman Dan Meuser (R-09) was on hand with fellow members of the House Republican Conference as Leader Kevin McCarthy, Whip Steve Scalise and Chair of the House Republican Conference Elise Stefanik unveiled the “Commitment to America” today, a comprehensive plan to offer solutions on the economy, safety, freedom, and government accountability and get America back on track. “As a businessperson, I love having a plan,” Meuser commented on the proposal, which Republicans will implement upon retaking the majority in Congress next year. “It embraces the priories and values of our constituents.” The plan contains four pillars: An Economy That’s Strong A Nation That’s Safe A Future That’s Built on Freedom A Government That’s Accountable Meuser said the Americans struggling with the high price of gas, rising costs at the grocery store, and rising crime in their communities, which can be traced to wasteful government spending and failed policies of the Biden Administration. “It’s time to reverse the backwards policies of the Biden administration and put the brakes on massive spending in Washington,” Meuser stated. “We need to unleash American energy production, which will lead to price reduction on many daily expenses for consumers.” Plans to curtail the influx of illegal border crossings, rampant crime in American cities and an increased investment in the American military are addressed in the safety pillar of the platform. “The situation at the border is an unmitigated disaster,” Meuser emphasized. “Americans want a plan that stems the overwhelming number of individuals who have entered the United States and whose whereabouts then becomes unknown, and addresses the problem of human and drug trafficking, which is rampant, dangerous, and deadly. We also need to give law enforcement the tools they need to do their jobs properly and end the lenient practices of liberal prosecutors. We must address the influx of deadly fentanyl into our country, which is killing our citizens in disturbing numbers.” Education, health care and privacy from big tech are also part of the plan. A Parents’ Bill of Rights is outlined, focusing on school choice, and addressing the detrimental impact Covid-19 has had on the education of our children. There is an emphasis on quality and affordable prices for health care, with choices for patients and competition to keep prices in check. There are plans for keeping children safe online and making sure the privacy of all is protected. “Parents in this country need to feel like stakeholders in the education of their children, not adversaries who are criticized when they speak up about important issues in the classroom,” Meuser commented. “Americans need to be able to afford decent health care that is delivered in a way that gives them the ability to receive it from the doctors they trust.” On the issue of internet privacy and safety, Meuser stated, “There is an increasing concern over what happens to an individual’s personal information online, and the consequences when it falls into the wrong hands. The ability of strangers to prey on the vulnerable, including children, needs to be a concern of all of us, including lawmakers.” Making Washington more accountable to citizens is the final pillar of the “Commitment to America.” This includes the preservation of free speech, protecting the rights of the unborn, guaranteeing the rights of religious freedom and upholding the Second Amendment. It also calls for holding Washington accountable for actions that have been taken at home and abroad. There is a plan for free and fair elections, and to end proxy voting by lawmakers. “Americans are increasingly unhappy with the marginalization of their freedoms,” Meuser expressed. “They are concerned about policies they believe have been disastrous around the globe, leaving us vulnerable to the whims of other countries. They want to know that their votes are being counted and that their lawmakers are present in Washington during important proceedings,” he added. Here is a brief overview: AN ECONOMY THAT’S STRONG Fight Inflation and Lower the Cost of Living Curb wasteful government spending that is raising the price of groceries, gas, cars, and housing, and growing our national debt Increase take-home pay, create good-paying jobs, and bring stability to the economy through pro-growth tax and deregulatory policies Make America Energy Independent and Reduce Gas Prices Maximize production of reliable, cleaner, American-made energy and cut the permitting process time in half to reduce reliance on foreign countries, prevent rolling blackouts, and lower the cost of gas and utilities Strengthen the Supply Chain and End Dependence on China Move supply chains away from China, expand U.S. manufacturing, and enhance America’s economic competitiveness and cyber resiliency. A NATION THAT’S SAFE Secure the border and combat illegal immigration Fully fund effective border enforcement strategies, infrastructure, and advanced technology to prevent illegal crossings and trafficking by cartels End catch-and-release loopholes, require legal status to get a job, and eliminate welfare incentives Reduce Crime and Protect Public Safety Support 200,000 more police officers through recruiting bonuses and oppose all efforts to defund the police Crack down on prosecutors and district attorneys who refuse to prosecute crimes, while permanently criminalizing all forms of illicit fentanyl Defend America’s National Security Support our troops, invest in an efficient, effective military, establish a Select Committee on China, and exercise peace through strength with our allies to counter increasing global threats A FUTURE THAT’S BUILT ON EDUCATION Make Sure Every Student Can Succeed and Give Parents a Voice Advance the Parents’ Bill of Rights, recover lost learning from school closures, and expand parental choice so over a million more students can receive the education their parents know is best Defend fairness by ensuring that only women can compete in women’s sports Achieve Longer, Healthier Lives for Americans Personalize care to provide affordable options and better quality, delivered by trusted doctors Lower prices through transparency, choice, and competition, invest in lifesaving cures, and improve access to telemedicine Confront Big Tech and Demand Fairness Provide greater privacy and data security protections, equip parents with more tools to keep their kids safe online, and stop companies from putting politics ahead of people A GOVERNMENT THAT’S ACCOUNTABLE Preserve Our Constitutional Freedoms Uphold free speech, protect the lives of unborn children and their mothers, guarantee religious freedom, and safeguard the Second Amendment Hold Washington Accountable Conduct rigorous oversight to rein in government abuse of power and corruption, provide real transparency, and require the White House to answer for its incompetence at home and abroad Restore the People’s Voice End special treatment for Members of Congress by repealing proxy voting, and increase accountability in the election process through voter ID, accurate voter rolls, and observer access",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-insurance-transparency-legislation-advanced-ways-means,Smucker Insurance Transparency Legislation Advanced by Ways & Means Committee,2022-09-22,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— This week bipartisan legislation, H.R. 8889, introduced by Reps. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Tom Rice (SC-7), and Stacie Plaskett (VI) was adopted as part of a manager's amendment during a markup of the Ways and Means Committee. The bill now goes to the House floor for consideration. Smucker's legislation, the Readable Insurance Coverage Explanations Act (RICE Act), would provide consumers with greater transparency about covered benefits and financial responsibilities of private insurance plans on a centralized public website. Under current law, there remain gaps in transparency for this critical information. The bill would also require a report to Congress offering recommendations to make statements of benefits easier to understand. ""I am pleased that our legislation to arm consumers with better information about their private insurance plans was approved by my colleagues in the Ways and Means Committee. This is an important step forward to give Americans the information they need to make the best health insurance decisions. I urge the House to take up and pass this bill, and I would like to thank Reps. Plaskett and Rice for joining me in introducing this legislation,"" said Smucker.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/9/fitzpatrick-statement-on-electoral-reform,Fitzpatrick Statement on Electoral Reform,2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) released the below statement following the House vote on H.R.8873: “I proudly support the hard work of Senator Collins (R-ME), Senator Manchin (D-WV), and their Senate colleagues and their pursuit of sincere, independent improvements to the Electoral Count Act. And I look forward to voting for their genuinely bipartisan bill on the House floor after Senate passage. “For years, our nation has been demanding that Congress unite to restore, not further erode, faith and trust in our institutions. “The Electoral Count Act of 1887 requires substantive improvements and the events of January 6, 2021, must never be allowed to happen again. Unfortunately, the proposal put forth today by House leadership seeks only to politicize electoral reform and undermine ongoing good-faith, bipartisan efforts in the Senate to amend existing law. “In a time of uncertainty, renewing confidence in our elected officials and our elections strikes at the core of what our country needs to come together. The only path forward on this issue is one that rejects hyper-partisanship and embraces collaborative, cross-party solutions that will ensure the lawful, orderly transfer of power for future generations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/committee-passes-reschenthaler-blunt-rochester-criminal-justice-reform-bill,"Committee Passes Reschenthaler, Blunt Rochester Criminal Justice Reform Bill",2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Judiciary Committee passed H.R. 2864, the Clean Slate Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) to give more than 70 million Americans with low-level and nonviolent criminal records a second chance to fully participate in society. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) introduced the companion bill in the Senate. The legislation would remove major barriers for many Americans in finding employment, securing housing, and accessing education by automatically sealing the federal records of individuals convicted of low-level, nonviolent drug offenses after they successfully complete their sentence. “As a former district judge, I saw how difficult it is for Americans with low-level and nonviolent criminal records to live a life of dignity after paying their debt to society. That’s why, as a Pennsylvania State Senator, I championed the passage of a bipartisan Clean Slate bill to offer past offenders an opportunity to live a different life,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “I am proud to continue this effort at the federal level with Rep. Blunt Rochester and grateful to our colleagues for passing the Clean Slate Act out of committee. I urge the House to bring this legislation to combat crime by reducing recidivism to the floor for a vote as soon as possible.” “Since coming to Congress, the Clean Slate Act has been one of my top priorities. With 9 in 10 landlords conducting background checks, 4 in 5 landlords, and 3 in 5 universities doing the same, we know how critical it is to give those who have served their time and paid their debt to society a clean slate and a second chance,” said Rep. Blunt Rochester. “I’m thrilled that, today, the Judiciary Committee decided to advance the bill through the legislative process, moving us one step closer to the Clean Slate Act becoming law. I look forward to working with my colleagues in continuing to advance this critical piece of legislation so that every American has a fair shot at education, housing, and employment.” More than one in three adults have some form of a criminal record, keeping them from participating in many facets of everyday life as nearly nine in ten employers, four in five landlords, and three in five colleges utilize background checks to screen applicants. Currently, the federal government lacks any meaningful way to clear federal criminal records, regardless of whether they resulted in an actual conviction. The Clean Slate Act aims to address this issue by automatically sealing federal arrest records for individuals not convicted and records for individuals convicted of low-level, nonviolent drug offenses after successfully completing their sentence. It would also establish new procedures to allow individuals to petition to seal records for other nonviolent offenses that are not automatically sealed. The Clean Slate Act is endorsed by Americans for Tax Reform, Americans for Prosperity, Brennan Center for Justice, Business Roundtable, Center for American Progress, Code for America, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, Due Process Institute, Faith and Freedom Coalition, JPMorgan Chase, Justice Action Network, R Street Institute, Responsible Business Initiative, Right on Crime, and Walmart. Read the bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-introduces-legislation-honor-lancaster-world-war-ii-veteran,Smucker Introduces Legislation to Honor Lancaster World War II Veteran,2022-09-21,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) introduced legislation to honor the life of Lancaster County World War II Veteran, and last known survivor of the Malmedy Massacre, Harold Billow, who passed away at the age of 99 earlier this year. Smucker's legislation would designate the Mount Joy Post Office Building as the ""Harold Billow Post Office Building"" in honor of Billow, a lifelong Mount Joy resident. Smucker's legislation was introduced with the support of the entire Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation. ""Mr. Harold Billow selflessly served our nation as a member of the United States Armed Forces and lived through an unspeakable war crime during his service. After returning home from the war, each Memorial Day, July 4th holiday, and Veterans Day since returning from the war Mr. Billow would honor and remember the 87 fellow soldiers lost during the Malmedy Massacre, by displaying 87 American flags in his front yard. He was truly a patriot and an exceptional member of the Greatest Generation. I am hopeful Congress will advance this legislation to thank him for his service and honor his memory,"" said Smucker. ""Lancaster County is proud to have been home to such a celebrated veteran and outstanding citizen like Harold Billow. While he will certainly be missed in his community, I am proud to support Rep. Smucker's proposed commemoration of Mr. Billow's distinguished service and heroic sacrifice to our nation. May we never forget his great display of bravery and courage in defense of our freedom,"" said State Sen. Ryan Aument. ""It is truly fitting that Mr. Billow's many contributions and record of service to his community and Country be recognized in this way. His good work and the many sacrifices he made to help others will always be remembered and will serve as a legacy for others to follow,"" said State Representative Dave Hickernell. ""Harold was a legend in Lancaster County and in the veteran community. He was a great American patriot and friend to many of us. One thing I will remember most about Harold, whether he was sitting around his kitchen table or he was meeting the President of the United States, was his genuine humor and interest in other people. Renaming the post office in his home community of Mount Joy will be a fitting tribute to a wonderful person,"" said Lancaster County Commissioner Josh Parsons. ""As the last living survivor of the Malmendy Massacre, Harold Billow stood as a living memorial to the atrocities committed against American servicemen and the strength of the human spirit. His dedication to his fallen comrades was to be evidenced by his tireless commitment to retell their story in a multitude of civic settings, and to mark their sacrifice through the meticulous display of 87 flags to honor each of the 87 fallen men during each major patriotic holiday. He was honored and loved by our community for his faithful devotion and kind spirit,"" said Mount Joy Borough Mayor Tim Bradley. ""Mr. Billow represents the best of Lancaster County and we are proud that the post office in Mount Joy will bear his name as a reminder of his life of service and patriotism. The Mount Joy VFW Post 5752 is fully supportive of this measure and we thank you for honoring one of our own,"" saidDonna Hershey, Quartermaster of the Mounty Joy VFW Post 5752. ""During his life, Mr. Harold Billow was an excellent reminder to our community of what true sacrifice and patriotism looks like. It is entirely fitting that the Mount Joy Post Office Building be designated the ""Harold Billow Post Office Building"", as both a tribute to Harold's life and a reminder of his legacy to future generations,"" said East Donegal Township Supervisor Tom Jones. Background: A Mount Joy resident since the age of six, Mr. Billow was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 and trained as a ""flash and sound"" technician. During World War II, he was attached to Battery B of the 285th Field Artillery Observation Battalion and arrived in France in 1944 at the age of 21. On December 17th, 1944, Mr. Billow and 120 others in his unit were captured by Nazi soldiers, who fired upon the group rather than taking prisoners. 87 American soldiers were killed in this attack, which would later become known as the Malmedy Massacre. Mr. Billow was not struck by the bullets but fell to the ground and pretended to be dead as the Nazis walked among the survivors and shot any living men in the head. After several hours, he escaped by running to a nearby house with other survivors then, realizing the Nazis were behind them, he fled in the open air until he was found by the U.S. 30th Armored Division. Upon returning to the U.S., Mr. Billow spent the rest of his life in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, and was a committed member of VFW Post 5752 in Mount Joy, the Mount Joy Fire Department, American Legion Post 466 of Marietta, Pennsylvania, and the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-higgins-introduce-medicare-opioid-use-disorder-outreach-act,"Kelly, Higgins introduce 'Medicare Opioid Use Disorder Outreach Act'",2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This week, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Rep. Brian Higgins (D-NY) introduced bipartisan legislation that will improve health care outcomes of beneficiaries living with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) by ensuring the providers and beneficiaries alike are aware of the effective treatment options covered under Medicare. H.R. 8884, The Medicare Opioid Use Disorder Outreach Act, directs the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct educational outreach to Medicare-participating health care providers to increase awareness and access to opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment services for Medicare beneficiaries. “Very sadly, communities across the country are all too familiar with the opioid crisis that continues to plague our nation. Watching a neighbor or loved one suffer from a substance use crisis is hard enough. Struggling to get treatment from providers when the existing coverage and service options are unclear is even harder”, Rep. Kelly said. “This bill provides doctors and their patients with the tools they need so our communities can heal. I am proud to lead the Medicare Opioid Use Disorder Outreach Act and look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this bipartisan legislation.” “Tackling Opioid Use Disorder is complex, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only made the challenges associated with addiction more difficult to contend with,” said Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26). “This measure will provide physicians with the tools to expand community access to live-saving treatments that lead to recovery. I am proud to join in leading this legislation that will make a difference for countless families in Western New York and across the country.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kelly-morelle-push-eradicate-spotted-lanternfly,"Reps. Kelly, Morelle push to eradicate the Spotted Lanternfly",2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Joe Morelle (D-NY) called on the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) to address the alarming spread of the Spotted Lanternfly in our region. This is the latest effort to address the Spotted Lanternfly and prevent devastating damage to New York and Pennsylvania’s agricultural economies. You can read their letter HERE. “Agriculture plays a vital role in Pennsylvania’s economy, especially in my district which is home to many family farms and agricultural businesses,” said Rep. Kelly, Co-Chair of the House Small Brewers Caucus. “In Pennsylvania alone, the spotted lanternfly could cost hundreds of millions in economic damage and eliminate thousands of agricultural jobs. We must protect our farmers and harvesters from this invasive and dangerous threat.” ""We know that this invasive species is prone to feed on grapevines and hop plants, destroying the livelihoods of brewers and wine makers who are critical to the strength of our local economy. Millions of dollars in damage to our crops and thousands of jobs are on the line unless we take meaningful action now,"" said Congressman Morelle. ""We’re calling for immediate action by the Department of Agriculture to stop the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly, including a comprehensive strategy to coordinate with state and local governments.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-receives-nfib-guardian-small-business-award,Smucker Receives NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award,2022-09-20,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) was named a recipient of the Guardian of Small Business Award issued by the National Federation of Independent Businesses, for his support of policies benefitting small businesses. ""Prior to serving in Congress, I built a small business over 25-years to employ over 150 individuals. I learned first-hand how the heavy hand of federal regulations and taxes impact job creators across the country. I will continue to advance pro-growth tax policies and will work to provide regulatory relief to small businesses so they can expand and create jobs,"" said Smucker.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/9/fitzpatrick-announces-grants-for-newtown-fire-association-and-bensalem-rescue-squad,Fitzpatrick Announces Grants for Newtown Fire Association and Bensalem Rescue Squad,2022-09-19,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA – Today, September 19, 2022, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced the Newtown Fire Association and Bensalem Rescue Squad have received FY 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel from fire and other related hazards. Newtown Fire Association received a total of $177,072.72 and Bensalem Rescue Squad received a total of $271,304.54. These grants will be used for Operation and Safety through the AFG Program. The purpose of the AFG Program is to award grants directly to fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical services (EMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel. Using a competitive process that is informed by fire service subject matter experts, grants are awarded to eligible applicants whose applications best address the priorities of the AFG Program. Since fiscal year FY 2001, the AFG Program has awarded approximately $7.7 billion in grants to provide critically needed resources. The total amount appropriated for the FY 2021 AFG Program initiative is $460 million. “From facing critical staffing shortages to financial struggles, our local fire departments and EMS units have faced unique challenges over the last decade.” said Fitzpatrick. “These grants are essential for the many Bucks County residents that rely on these services to keep them safe. As the as a Co-Chair for the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and certified EMT, I am proud to support our local fire departments and the AFG grant programs.” Currently, FEMA is on round 8 of the competitive FY 2021 AFG announcements and will continue to announce AFG grants on a weekly basis. This program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-kelly-led-inquiries-biden-administration-provides-documents,"Following Kelly-led inquiries, Biden administration provides documents connected to Erie migrant intake site",2022-09-16,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This week, following a 17-month inquiry by U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services (HHS) provided Rep. Kelly and the House Judiciary Committee documents connected to the emergency intake site established in Erie, Pennsylvania in April 2021. New documents obtained from HHS include the contract agreed to between the federal government and the site's owners, the Pennsylvania Academy Corporation (PAC). Information provided indicates the site, located in Summit Township, Erie County, was shut down and the migrant girls were moved due to a gas leak. The documents raised more concerns than provided answers, however, and further transparency from HHS is needed to answer Rep. Kelly's additional questions and inform Erie-area residents about how their tax dollars have been spent on this matter. ""We have been seeking these documents from the Biden administration for nearly a year and a half. Although they are long overdue, this information is critical to learning more about just how the federal government facilitated the transport of unaccompanied migrant girls to Erie County and the potential cost of illegal immigration to taxpayers in my district,"" Kelly said. ""I will continue to press Secretary Becerra for greater transparency and answers for the people of my district. I trust Secretary Becerra will provide this additional information in a timely manner."" Following this week's markup in the House Judiciary Committee, where these records were entered into the public record, Rep. Kelly submitted this letter to Secretary Becerra with the following questions related to the Erie intake site and the Biden administration's immigration plans. His questions include: What happened to the children after they were transferred out of the Erie Intake Site? Specifically, where were the children housed between April 23, 2021, and May 30, 2021?What happened to the children after that point? What happened to the children who were still in the US when they turned 18? Were they released into the country? Why was the Erie site chosen and does the Government still have an ongoing contract for the site? What was the total amount of taxpayer dollars paid out on the contract for the Erie Intake Site? The contract suggests it was between $1,000,000.00 and $10,000,000.00. Please provide the exact amount paid. Why didn’t the government inspect the site before entering into a million-dollar contract and shipping children there? BACKGROUND On Wednesday, the House Judiciary Committee marked up H.Res.1257, which Kelly introduced in July 2021. H.Res.1257 directs HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra to provide certain documents in the Secretary's possession to the House of Representatives relating to the establishment of an Emergency Intake Site in Erie, Pennsylvania, at the Pennsylvania International Academy, to house the influx of unaccompanied migrant children. The site housed approximately 144 unaccompanied migrant girls for less than one week before federal officials moved the girls to another intake site, which remains undisclosed.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-colleagues-introduce-bill-combat-child-exploitation,"Reschenthaler, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Combat Child Exploitation",2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), Steve Chabot (OH-01), Ann Kuster (NH-02), introduced H.R. 8816, the bipartisan reauthorization of the Providing Resources, Officers, and Technology to Eradicate Cyber Threats to Our Children, or the PROTECT Our Children Act. This critical legislation would reauthorize the National Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program and National ICAC Data System through 2024, allowing the national network of 61 child exploitation task forces to continue their important fight against predators and sex-traffickers. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The original PROTECT Our Children Act was passed in 2008 to authorize the ICAC Task Force Program, a coordinated group of task forces representing 3,500 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in reactive and proactive investigations across the country. The ICAC task forces aid local and state law enforcement in the creation and implementation of effective responses to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation by offering guidance on victim support, forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, and community education. “I witnessed the horrific impact of child sexual abuse as a district judge,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “The ICAC Task Force Program aids federal, state, and local law enforcement in stopping those who prey on our nation’s children. I’m proud to help the ICAC continue their important work of identifying and prosecuting dangerous criminals.” “Our children deserve a future that is bright and safe, and the ICAC helps us secure that possibility. In just 14 years, ICAC arrests have gone from 2,500 a year nationwide to over 10,400 in 2021 alone. I am proud to introduce legislation that reaffirms our commitment to America’s children and builds on the original PROTECT Act that I authored over a decade ago,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “In light of a rapidly changing technological environment, we must continue to make the internet a safe space for all children and guard against those who seek to exploit them. I am grateful for the efforts of my colleagues and the bipartisan spirit that will allow this vital bill to come to the floor.” “This measure is vital to giving law enforcement tools to combat the scourge of online child exploitation. Reauthorizing the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program will help law enforcement detect, investigate, and prosecute predators who perpetrate these hideous crimes. We must continue to protect victims and hold criminals accountable,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “By providing law enforcement agencies more support and tools to combat cyber-crimes, we can build more barriers between predators and the victims they aim to target,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I urge my colleagues to reauthorize this legislation, which will support the victims of these heinous crimes and prevent future abuse.” “Our top priority needs to be the safety of our children. Unfortunately, as more and more of our daily lives are conducted online, it can be difficult to monitor their activities and protect them from those who prey on innocent children. The reauthorization of the PROTECT Our Children Act ensures that law enforcement officers have the tools and resources necessary to combat child predators,” said Rep. Chabot. “Working to keep children safe online and prevent child sexual exploitation must be our top priority,” said Rep. Kuster, founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Task Force to End Sexual Violence. “Especially as kids are spending more time online, we must ensure law enforcement agencies have the tools and resources needed to protect children, help victims, and hold perpetrators of these horrific crimes accountable. This bipartisan legislation is crucial to keeping Granite State children safe.” The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the following organizations: Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Rape & Violence Ends Now, Rights 4 Girls, Fraternal Order of Police, National Center on Sexual Exploitation, and National District Attorneys Association. The full text of the bill can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-awarded-national-federation-independent-business-guardian-small,Thompson Awarded National Federation of Independent Business Guardian of Small Business Award,2022-09-15,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Thompson receives the Guardian of Small Business Award from NFIB President and CEO Brad Close WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Yesterday, Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson was presented the National Federation of Independent Business ""Guardian of Small Business"" Award. This award, which is the organization's highest honor, is given to lawmakers who vote consistently with small businesses on key issues. ""Growing up, my family owned a small business, which provided me a first-hand view of the hard work and dedication that individuals and families put into providing services and products that fulfill needs in their communities,"" Rep. Thompson said. "" Small businesses fuel our economy and I am proud to continue to support programs that keep Main Street America open for business."" ""The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is presented to Members of Congress who have proven themselves to be real champions of small business,"" said NFIB President and CEO Brad Close. ""This Congress, small businesses emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic but faced continual threats of high inflation, workforce shortages, and supply chain disruptions. These NFIB Guardians demonstrated strong support of small businesses on key issues. NFIB is unique in that we only represent small and independent businesses, and our members decide our policy positions. We are proud to recognize the elected officials from the 117th Congress who earned this distinction by taking pro-small business votes that supported an extension of the Paycheck Protection Program and opposed tax increases, new mandates, increased legal liability, and problematic employment law revisions that would have threatened Main Street's economic recovery. NFIB commends Rep. Thompson for earning the Guardian of Small Business Award."" To read more on NFIB's How Congress Voted report online, please visit: www.NFIB.com/GuardianAwards ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/9/fitzpatrick-announces-grant-for-levittown-fairless-hills-rescue-squad,Fitzpatrick Announces Grant for Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad,2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA – Today, September 14, 2022, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced the Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad, which serves half of Bristol Township, the majority of Falls Township, Tullytown, and small portions of Middletown and Lower Makefield Townships, has received a FY 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel from fire and other related hazards. Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad received a total of $46,800.00 to be used towards Operation and Safety through the AFG Program. The purpose of the AFG Program is to award grants directly to fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical services (EMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel. Using a competitive process that is informed by fire service subject matter experts, grants are awarded to eligible applicants whose applications best address the priorities of the AFG Program. Since fiscal year FY 2001, the AFG Program has awarded approximately $7.7 billion in grants to provide critically needed resources. The total amount appropriated for the FY 2021 AFG Program initiative is $460 million. “As an essential 9-1-1 ambulance service that covers vast portions of Lower Bucks County, the Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad is tasked with providing lifesaving 24 hour, seven days-a-week advanced life support ambulance coverage,” said Fitzpatrick. “This grant will aid the many career and volunteer members of the rescue squad but moreover, this grant will work to ensure that this essential team is able to continue to promptly respond to emergencies whenever they may arise.” Currently, FEMA is on round 7 of the competitive FY 2021 AFG announcements and will continue to announce AFG grants on a weekly basis. This program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-joyce-condemns-biden-administration-response-inflation-grows,Congressman Joyce Condemns Biden Administration Response as Inflation Grows,2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, calling on President Biden and House Democrats to curb the runaway spending that has led to soaring inflation. “The fact is—that President Biden has proven that he is unable to stop the runaway inflation that has raised the cost of housing, groceries, and gasoline for working Americans,” said Congressman Joyce. “The answer to this crisis won’t be found in more government handouts.” Watch Congressman Joyce’s speech here. Today, the Consumer Price Index revealed that inflation rose 0.1% in August, and core inflation rose by 0.6%, both higher than expected, according to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Inflation continues to erode Americans’ wages, with real hourly earnings dropping 2.8% over the year in August and real weekly earnings declining 3.4%.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-kelly-led-bill-improving-health-care-millions-pennsylvania,"House passes Kelly-led bill improving health care for millions of Pennsylvania seniors, cuts red tape",2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) voted for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 3173), legislation that would make it easier for more than 2.7 million Pennsylvania seniors enrolled in Medicare, including the 1.2 million enrolled in Medicare Advantage, to get the care they need and improve health outcomes. The bill would modernize the antiquated prior authorization process in Medicare Advantage, which often still requires faxing documents to insurance companies. The bill unanimously passed the U.S. House by a voice vote. Many Medicare Advantage plans require providers to obtain prior authorization for certain medical procedures and tests before they can provide care to their patients. Prior authorization can play a role in ensuring people receive appropriate treatments and help control the cost of care. However, when misused, prior authorization can delay medically necessary care and result in administrative burdens for providers. “The current prior authorization process in Medicare Advantage often requires doctors and patients to call or fax documents back and forth with insurance companies. When seniors go to the doctor, the focus should be on their health, not bureaucratic paperwork,” said Rep. Kelly. “That’s why I have led and ultimately voted for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act so Pennsylvania seniors can get the care they need when they need it.” WATCH: Click here to watch a clip of Rep. Kelly's speech on the U.S. House floor supporting the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 3173). The bill would: Establish an electronic prior authorization process. Require the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to establish a process for “real-time decisions” for items and services that are routinely approved. Improve transparency by requiring Medicare Advantage plans to report to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the extent of their use of prior authorization and the rate of approvals or denials. Encourage plans to adopt prior authorization programs that adhere to evidence-based medical guidelines in consultation with physicians. Earlier this year, HHS’s independent watchdog released a report illustrating the abuse of prior authorization in Medicare Advantage. Rep. Kelly introduced the legislation with Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-07), and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08). It has over 300 cosponsors in the House and the endorsement of over 500 organizations. Prior Authorization Fast Facts 13 percent of denied prior authorization requests met Medicare’s coverage rules and should not have been denied. One in four physicians report that prior authorization has led to a patient being hospitalized. Doctors spend an average of 13 hours a week completing prior authorization paperwork. 88 percent of doctors describe this burden of prior authorization as high or extremely high.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-reschenthaler-bill-help-victims-child-sex-abuse-and-sex,House Passes Reschenthaler Bill to Help Victims of Child Sex Abuse and Sex Trafficking Seek Justice,2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed by voice vote S. 3103, the Eliminating Limits to Justice for Child Sex Abuse Victims Act, the Senate companion to legislation introduced by Representatives Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), and Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27). S. 3103 now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. This bipartisan legislation will ensure that survivors of child sex abuse and sex trafficking can seek justice under the federal civil remedy statute without being barred by statutes of limitations. Specifically, it will enable survivors who are victims of more than a dozen federal child sex abuse offenses, including aggravated sexual abuse, sex trafficking, human trafficking, forced labor, and sexual exploitation and pornography, to seek civil damages in federal court regardless of how long it took to process and disclose the abuse they suffered. “In many cases, it takes years for survivors to process the trauma of childhood sexual abuse,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “The statute of limitations should not prevent survivors from seeking civil justice in federal court. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House for passing this legislation to eliminate unnecessary barriers to justice and support survivors of child sex abuse and sex trafficking.” “It often takes years – sometimes decades – to process the trauma of childhood sexual abuse, and statutes of limitations result in many individuals never seeing their day in court,” said Rep. Ross. “All survivors deserve access to justice – no matter how long it takes them to process the trauma they’ve experienced. Our bipartisan legislation will ensure our most vulnerable can seek the justice they deserve. I thank my colleagues for working with me to pass this important legislation, and I look forward to President Biden signing it into law soon.” “We must not put an expiration date on justice,” said Rep. Swalwell. “While 86 percent of child sexual abuse goes unreported nationwide, the average survivor who chooses to report doesn’t come forward until the age of 52. The bipartisan Eliminating Limits to Justice for Child Sex Abuse Victims Act will help ensure survivors have their day in court no matter how long it takes to disclose the abuses they suffered.” “Victims of child sexual abuse, exploitation, and sex trafficking have gone through unfathomable trauma. We must have zero tolerance for the perpetrators of these horrific crimes,” said Rep. Salazar. “I am proud that this vital legislation has been passed to ensure that the vile humans who take advantage of the most vulnerable do not get away unpunished.” The Eliminating Limits to Justice for Child Sex Abuse Victims Act is endorsed by the following organizations: CHILD USA, RAINN, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), and National Alliance to End Sexual Violence (NAESV). The full text of the bill can be viewed here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-thompson-and-panetta-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-celebrate,Reps. Thompson and Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Celebrate Community Week and Commemorate Service Organizations,2022-09-14,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Reps. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA-15) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20), co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Service Organization Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate the week of September 11th through September 17th ""Celebrate Community"" week and commemorate the efforts of local service organizations across the country. The resolution recognizes the role of service organizations in promoting community humanitarian assistance, while also instilling the value of giving back in our youth. The undersigned members specifically applauded Kiwanis International, Lions Clubs International, Optimist International, and Rotary International for encouraging and promoting community service and humanitarian assistance through their local chapters. ""The Celebrate Community Week resolution highlights the critical work of our community service organizations,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""Volunteer service is the cornerstone of a successful, strong, and healthy community, and is an important staple of American life. I commend our community service organizations like Lions Clubs International, Rotary International, Kiwanis International, and Optimist International for everything they do to help our communities flourish."" ""Local service organizations all across our country do so much good in our communities and beyond,"" Rep. Panetta said. ""That's why it was important to author and introduce this bipartisan resolution so that Congress could honor and recognize the commitment and service of those organizations to our home towns and their humanitarian efforts across the globe. By giving back so much and upholding and fulfilling the values of living in our democracy, the members of our service organizations make our communities better and our country stronger."" ""Service organizations help make communities stronger,"" said Stan Soderstrom, Executive Director of Kiwanis International. ""The Celebrate Community initiative is one way to join together to work on projects that will have a measurable impact in the US and around the world."" ""To accomplish big things, we all need to roll up our sleeves and work together,"" said Lions Clubs International President, Brian Sheehan. ""That's why Lions Clubs International is so proud to participate in the Celebrate Community joint week of service. I truly believe that together we can make our communities—and the world—a better place for all people."" Original cosponsors of the resolution include: Reps. Alma Adams (D-NC), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), Steve Chabot (R-OH), Jim Costa (D-CA), Angie Craig (D-MN), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Ann McLane Kuster (D-NH), Al Lawson (D-FL), Barry Moore (R-AL), Tom O'Halleran (D-AZ), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Mike Thompson (D-CA). Organizations Supporting: Lions Clubs International, Rotary International, Kiwanis International, and Optimist International. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/9/reps-fitzpatrick-crow-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-americans-healthcare-data-from-cyberattacks,"Reps. Fitzpatrick, Crow Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Americans’ Healthcare Data from Cyberattacks",2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) today was joined by Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO-06) to introduce a bill protecting Americans’ healthcare data from cyberattacks. The bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act comes as nearly 50 million people in the US had their sensitive health data breached in 2021, a threefold increase in just the last three years. Those breaches have resulted in a 16% increase in the average cost of recovering a patient record in 2020 compared to 2019. The bill has also been introduced in the US Senate by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA). “46 million Americans had their health data breached in 2021 as a result of a cyberattack,"" said Rep. Fitzpatrick. ""The increasing number of attacks on our hospitals and health centers must be addressed. That is why I am proud to join my colleague Rep. Crow to introduce The Healthcare Cybersecurity Act of 2022 which will create new resources for cybersecurity risk training and promote strong cybersecurity measures across our Nation’s healthcare systems."" “Cyberattacks on our hospitals and health centers are becoming increasingly common and they are driving up our healthcare costs,” said Rep. Crow. “I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act with Rep. Fitzpatrick to protect the American people and their data from these malicious attacks.” “As hospitals and other healthcare organizations across the United States face an onslaught of cyberattacks, we must take proactive steps to enhance information sharing and improve cybersecurity in the healthcare and public health sector,” said Sen. Rosen. “That’s why I introduced the bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act in the Senate to strengthen cybersecurity protections and protect patient information, and I am glad to see it introduced on a bipartisan basis in the House of Representatives."" Data reported to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) shows that almost every month in 2020, more than 1,000,000 people were affected by data breaches at healthcare organizations. Cyberattacks on healthcare facilities rose 55% in 2020. This crucial legislation begins to address this issue by directing the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to collaborate with HHS to improve cybersecurity in the Health Care and Public Health Sector, one of the United States’ sixteen critical infrastructure sectors. Cyberattacks against these entities are increasing in frequency and severity, particularly because they hold large amounts of sensitive patient information and are perceived as vulnerable by malicious actors. Collaboration and information sharing between the public and private sectors is essential to increasing cyber resilience for health-focused entities. Specifically, the bipartisan Healthcare Cybersecurity Act: Requires CISA and HHS to collaborate, including by entering into an agreement, to improve cybersecurity in the Healthcare and Public Health sector, as defined by CISA. Authorizes cybersecurity training to Healthcare and Public Health sector asset owners and operators on cybersecurity risks and ways to mitigate them. Requires CISA to conduct a detailed study on specific cybersecurity risks facing the Healthcare and Public Health Sector, including an analysis of how cybersecurity risks specifically impact health care assets, an evaluation of the challenges health care assets face in securing updated information systems, and an assessment of relevant cybersecurity workforce shortages. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-statement-higher-expected-august-inflation-numbers,Rep. Kelly statement on higher-than-expected August inflation numbers,2022-09-13,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Following today's report showing August's year-to-year inflation rate of 8.3% was higher-than-expected, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) issued the following statement. ""The number one issue I hear from my constituents continues to be inflation and the soaring cost of everyday life. This latest report reflects their concerns,"" Kelly said. ""Inflation has skyrocketed over 13% since President Biden took office nearly two years ago. Make no mistake: the Biden administration's reckless spending and economic policies are costing Americans thousands of dollars more this year. I remain incredibly concerned about the way their policies are hurting our nation's financial well-being."" BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-and-bipartisan-group-introduce-medicare-enrollment-protection-act,Smucker and Bipartisan Group Introduce the Medicare Enrollment Protection Act,2022-09-12,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Kurt Schrader (OR-05), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Mike Thompson (CA-05), Tim Walberg (MI-07), and Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) have introduced the Medicare Enrollment Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation would help to protect seniors enrolling in Medicare Part B after COBRA coverage expiration from potential coverage gaps and late enrollment penalties. Under current law, all seniors are required to enroll in Medicare Part B within three months of turning 65. While seniors with employer coverage who continue working past 65 are allowed an exception to this rule, COBRA continuation coverage does not qualify. As a result, seniors who choose to continue their care through COBRA without enrolling in Medicare are subject to waiting periods of up to a year before they can begin receiving coverage and risk a lifetime of increased Part B premiums and other financial penalties. The Medicare Enrollment Protection Act would work to address this loophole in the enrollment process by creating a transition period that allows seniors on COBRA to enroll in Part B during any month in which COBRA coverage is active. As long as the individual enrolls in Part B coverage before the COBRA coverage ends, he or she will not be hit with a permanent Part B late enrollment penalty. ""This legislation is a commonsense effort to make health care more affordable for American seniors by providing a transition period before Medicare late enrollment penalties are applied,'' Rep. Smucker said. ""Seniors should be able to make their own choices and enroll in Medicare at an age that makes sense for themselves, not one set by the federal government. I have been fighting for this change to make the enrollment process easier since coming to Congress. I will work to secure support from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and look forward to this bill's passage."" ""For far too long, the Medicare enrollment process has been overly complicated and burdensome,"" Rep. Schrader said. ""Our bipartisan bill would help make the enrollment process easier for seniors who choose to stay on their employer's COBRA insurance and ensure they have the time and resources to find the appropriate health care coverage without incurring unnecessary delays, higher premiums or financial ramifications. Well intended seniors, one of our most vulnerable populations, should not face unintended consequences that can limit their access to coverage and subsequent care."" ""We want to ensure the transition from private health care to Medicare is easy,"" Rep. Bilirakis said. ""The current law does not meet that objective. Additionally, the law does not properly reflect the need for flexibility due to the various challenges that those exiting the workforce face in today's economy. Our bill empowers seniors to make the health care decisions that best fit their individual needs without fear of a lifetime penalty, and I look forward to its quick passage."" ""Medicare has provided care to millions of seniors and people with disabilities for decades, and protecting access to this program is vital to ensure they continue to receive the care they need,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""The Medicare Enrollment Protection Act will help Americans enroll in Medicare and work to ensure beneficiaries are not faced with unexpected expensive penalties. Proud to introduce this bill alongside a bipartisan group of colleagues to protect access to Medicare for those who depend on this program."" ""To improve outcomes for seniors, they should be empowered—not penalized—to make personalized health care choices that best meet their needs,"" Rep. Walberg said. ""Given the many complexities that come with Medicare enrollment, the last thing seniors need is the prospect of life-long higher costs. Our bipartisan legislation makes important reforms to streamline the system and remove barriers to affordable, uninterrupted coverage."" ""This bipartisan legislation cuts through the rep tape and empowers seniors to make healthcare decisions based on personal needs,"" Rep. Sherrill said. ""A bureaucratic enrollment process should never be an obstacle to Medicare access or hit seniors with unaffordable penalties. I am committed to advancing access to Medicare and quality health care for seniors in NJ-11 and across the country."" # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/9/fitzpatrick-announces-grants-for-morrisville-and-lansdale-fire-departments,Fitzpatrick Announces Grants for Morrisville and Lansdale Fire Departments,2022-09-09,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"LANGHORNE, PA – Today, September 9, 2022, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced the Morrisville Fire Company of Morrisville Borough, and Fairmount Fire Company of Lansdale Borough, have received FY 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel from fire and other related hazards. Morrisville Fire Company received a total of $21,238.09 and Fairmount Fire Company received a total of $166,300.00. These grants will be used for Operation and Safety through the AFG Program. The purpose of the AFG Program is to award grants directly to fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical services (EMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel. Using a competitive process that is informed by fire service subject matter experts, grants are awarded to eligible applicants whose applications best address the priorities of the AFG Program. Since fiscal year FY 2001, the AFG Program has awarded approximately $7.7 billion in grants to provide critically needed resources. The total amount appropriated for the FY 2021 AFG Program initiative is $460 million. “As fire departments that serve highly densely populated boroughs, the Morrisville and Fairmount Fire Companies are responsible for responding to a high volume of calls annually while constantly battling against funding issues and a decline of volunteers,” said Fitzpatrick. “The residents of both Bucks and Montgomery counties will directly benefit from these essential grants for these two fire departments that do so much to keep our communities safe.” Currently, FEMA is on round 5 of the competitive FY 2021 AFG announcements and will continue to announce AFG grants on a weekly basis. This program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-opposes-planned-parenthood-s-offering-chemical-abortions-facility,Smucker Opposes Planned Parenthood’s Offering of Chemical Abortions at Facility in Lancaster,2022-09-09,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Rep. Smucker (PA-11) offered the following statement regarding the news that Planned Parenthood Keystone intends on offering chemical abortions at a facility in Lancaster City: ""It will be a sad day for our community if abortions are provided in Lancaster City. I believe strongly in the sanctity of life and know many of my fellow Lancastrians share the same sentiment. I vehemently oppose their plans to offer chemical abortion services,"" said Smucker.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2022/9/fitzpatrick-statement-on-the-passing-of-queen-elizabeth-ii,Fitzpatrick Statement on the Passing of Queen Elizabeth II,2022-09-08,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) released the below statement following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II: “For almost one-third of America’s history, we have known Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as the monarch and leader of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth. Her stature as a longstanding leader in the free world is tremendous and her legacy looms large. Queen Elizabeth II’s passing brings about a change in leadership not seen since 1952, a transition occurring for the first time in many peoples’ lives. “Queen Elizabeth II’s time and commitment to her family, her country, and her people is unmatched. She has led the Commonwealth with 15 prime ministers, beginning with Winston Churchill in 1952 and concluding with her appointment of Prime Minister Liz Truss earlier this week. She reigned over the Commonwealth in times of prosperity and times of tragedy, standing before her people every day with courage and valor. She has endured throughout the vicissitudes of time and seasons of change. “America’s relationship with the United Kingdom has only become stronger during her tenure over the past 70 years. Her reign coincided with 14 U.S. presidencies, and her rapport with American leaders has allowed for an active and steadfast connection between our two nations. Her exchanges with our nation’s leaders, particularly Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Reagan, have created a longstanding bond that will carry on for years to come. “My prayers and thoughts are with the Royal Family and the new King Charles, as they navigate this transition. As the new King embarks on this delicate shift, I pray for his wellbeing and courage. I am thinking of all citizens in the United Kingdom and the fourteen other countries in the Commonwealth who mourn for the Queen and her family. The United States of America mourns with you.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-congressman-thompson-receives-friend-farm-bureau-award,ICYMI: Congressman Thompson Receives ‘Friend of Farm Bureau’ Award,2022-09-08,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CLEARFIELD, Pa.– U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson joined the Clearfield County Farm Bureau yesterday at the Steve Blackburn Grain Bin Facility to accept the 2022 Friend of Farm Bureau Award. The American Farm Bureau Federation's congressional award program is known as the ""Friend of Farm Bureau."" This award is given to an individual who has supported farm bureau policy, as shown by their voting records; is nominated by their respective state farm bureau, and approved by the AFBF's board of directors. Voting records are based on votes approved by the AFBF Board at its July 2022 meeting. ""What I used to call rural America, I don't call it that anymore, I call it ‘essential America,'"" Thompson said. ""Because absolutely everything that the families in this great nation need – and quite frankly a lot of families around the world – those things that are essential to their lives come from where we live.'"" ""It's very important for Glenn Thompson to be a part of what we do,"" said Steve Blackburn, Vice President of the Clearfield County Farm Bureau. ""He supports the farmers, and we need that, so it's great for that."" Read the full article here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-responds-biden-s-speech,Smucker Responds to Biden’s Speech,2022-09-02,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) released the following statement in response to President Biden's address from Philadelphia: ""President Biden has no intention of unifying this country and his remarks last evening only served to further divide the nation. Biden's disdain for those who disagree with him was on display as he demonized his fellow citizens. What the American people witnessed last night is the latest extraordinary failure of leadership from President Biden,"" said Smucker. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-city-sharon-receive-nearly-1-million-federal-public-safety-grants,Kelly: City of Sharon to receive nearly $1 million in federal public safety grants,2022-09-01,2022,2022-09,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced the City of Sharon, Pennsylvania will receive nearly $1 million for two grants provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The City of Sharon's Fire Department/Fire District will receive $769,320.00 in support, and the city's Department of Operations and Safety will receive $199,285.71 in a separate grant. The funding is made possible through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program via the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. ""This is such a great use of federal funding because it will directly benefit the city and the people of Sharon and Mercer County overall,"" Kelly said. ""We must do everything we can to assist our brave first responders and public safety leaders throughout our communities. This funding does just that. My staff and I are proud to continue a strong partnership between local governments and our federal agencies."" ""We’re thankful to have the opportunity to receive the funding to provide the personal protective equipment to support our firefighters and the work that they do in protecting the city,"" said Bob Fiscus, City Manager and Fire Chief for the City Of Sharon. “As for the second grant we’re appreciative of receiving it and are researching how it can best be used in a collaborative partnership between the city and the firefighters union.’ The second grant is to increase firefighting staffing."" BACKGROUND The purpose of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program is to award grants directly to fire departments, nonaffiliated Emergency Medical Services organizations, and State Fire Training Academies) to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel. Using a competitive process that is informed by fire service subject-matter experts, grants are awarded to applicants whose requests best address the priorities of the AFG Program. The Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program will make available $414 million directly to fire departments, State Fire Training Academies, and nonaffiliated emergency medical services organizations to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel from fire and other related hazards. This program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T03:08:33Z