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://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-thompson-travel-southern-border-speaker-johnson,Congressman Thompson to Travel to Southern Border with Speaker Johnson,2023-12-29,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Wednesday, January 3, U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson and Speaker Mike Johnson along with other Representatives, will travel to Eagle Pass, Texas to visit the border. They will meet with state and local officials to discuss the failures of the Biden Administration to enforce border policy and their experience on the ground. ""At every turn the Biden Administration has failed to address the crisis on our southern border,"" Rep. Thompson said. ""House Republicans have put forth solutions, and this trip will allow us to meet face to face with those brave men and women who serve in Customs and Border Protection, who have been sidelined by failed policies."" “America is experiencing the worst border crisis in our history, impacting every community in the country. While President Biden and Senate Democrats are asleep at the wheel, House Republicans will not cease in demanding transformative, immediate solutions to the madness. We look forward to meeting with the brave men and women of law enforcement and the citizens on the frontlines of this crisis who will help shine a light on the disastrous effects of this Administration’s border policies,” Speaker Johnson said. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-announces-january-mobile-office-hours,Reschenthaler Announces January Mobile Office Hours,2023-12-27,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) announced his staff will hold mobile office hours at various locations throughout Pennsylvania’s 14th Congressional District next month to offer increased assistance to constituents experiencing problems with a federal agency. During these mobile office sessions, constituents can receive help with Social Security and Medicare issues, federal grant funding, passports and visas, immigration and naturalization services, veterans’ benefits, and the IRS. January's schedule is outlined below: What: Greene County Mobile Office Hours Date: Thursday, January 4, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Greene County Office Building, 93 East High Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370 What: Fayette County Mobile Office Hours Date: Friday, January 5, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Fayette County Courthouse, 61 East Main Street, Uniontown, PA 15401 What: Indiana Mobile Office Hours Date: Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Indiana County Courthouse Annex, 827 Water Street, Indiana, PA 15701 What: Somerset Mobile Office Hours Date: Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Somerset County Planning Conference Room, 300 North Center Avenue, Suite 540, Somerset, PA 15501 What: Connellsville Mobile Office Hours Date: Tuesday, January 16, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Connellsville Municipal Building, 110 North Arch Street, Connellsville, PA 15425",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-pa-lawmakers-blinken-marc-fogel-must-be-included-any-prisoner-swap,"Kelly, Pa. Lawmakers to Blinken: Marc Fogel Must Be Included in Any Prisoner Swap",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,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 Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), alongside Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA), as well as Representatives Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Dan Meuser (R-PA), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Matt Cartwright (D-PA), Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Susan Wild (D-PA), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), and Summer Lee (D-PA) urged Secretary Antony Blinken to include Butler County native and Pittsburgh-area resident Marc Fogel in any prisoner swap made with Russia. Fogel has been detained in Russia since August 2021 and is currently serving a 14-year sentence for possession of medical marijuana used to treat his severe back injury, a charge very similar to that of WNBA player Brittney Griner. In the bipartisan, bicameral letter, the lawmakers wrote: “Since Marc Fogel’s arrest, numerous members of the House and Senate from both sides of the aisle have urged the State Department to take further action, including classifying Mr. Fogel as wrongfully detained. Unfortunately, this designation process has stalled while Mr. Fogel’s health has deteriorated. As negotiations are ongoing with the Russian Federation, we respectfully request that any potential prisoner swap must include Mr. Fogel, along with Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich.” Under federal law, Fogel meets at least six of the eleven established criteria to be designated as wrongfully detained by the State Department. He has yet to be classified as wrongfully detained, while Griner was designated in less than three months after her arrest. On December 8, 2022, Griner was released from Russian prison via a prisoner swap for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer known as the “Merchant of Death.” Fogel remains in a Russian penal colony serving his sentence. Read the full letter here. BACKGROUND Marc Fogel, a Butler, Pennsylvania native, taught history courses at schools attended by children of U.S. diplomats in Colombia, Venezuela, Oman, Malaysia, and, for the last 10 years, in Russia. Fogel was detained on August 14, 2021, and is serving a 14-year hard-labor sentence for possession of medical marijuana used to treat his severe back injury, a charge very similar to that of WNBA player Brittney Griner. Under federal law, Fogel meets at least six of the eleven established criteria to be designated as wrongfully detained by the State Department. He has yet to be classified as wrongfully detained. Griner was designated in less than three months after her arrest. On December 8, 2022, Griner was released from Russian prison via a prisoner swap for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer known as the “Merchant of Death.” Fogel remains in a Russian penal colony serving his sentence. Rep. Kelly has previously led efforts to free Mr. Fogel, including by introducing The Marc Fogel Act in June. This legislation would amend the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act to require more transparency from the State Department to Congress on how wrongful detainment determinations are made.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/republicans-challenge-secs-proposal-prohibit-volume-based-exchange-transaction,Republicans Challenge SEC's Proposal to Prohibit Volume-Based Exchange Transaction Pricing,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — A coalition of Republican members of the Financial Services Committee Capital Markets Subcommittee, wrote a letter led by Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) and Subcommittee Chairman Ann Wagner (MO-02), expressing significant opposition to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) recent proposal to prohibit volume-based exchange transaction pricing. In a letter addressed to SEC Chair Gary Gensler, they argue that the proposal is misguided, lacking empirical foundation, and could potentially disrupt the market ecosystem. Volume-based discounts, they argue, are integral to various sectors of the economy, promoting competition and enhancing consumer benefits. In the securities markets, these discounts play a crucial role in fostering liquidity. The letter warns that prohibiting these discounts could undermine fundamental market dynamics and display a lack of understanding of market operations at the Commission. The letter goes on, expressing concern that the SEC's initiative relies more on conjecture than concrete evidence, potentially disrupting the market without just cause. Furthermore, they caution that the proposal could lead to a less transparent market with fragmented liquidity, contradicting the SEC’s mandates. It also raises concerns about decreased competition, potentially resulting in higher costs for investors, which the SEC claims to help with this misguided proposal. The letter, co-signed by Capital Markets Subcommittee members including Reps. Pete Sessions (TX-17), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Tom Emmer (MN-06), Bryan Steil (WI-01), Andrew Garbarino (NY-02), Michael Lawler (NY-17), Zach Nunn (IA-03), and Erin Houchin (IN-09), urges the SEC to reconsider this proposal. The members request a detailed response from the SEC to several pertinent questions, focusing on the empirical basis of the proposal, its potential impact on market liquidity and global competitiveness, and its implications for the existing regulatory framework. The Republican members conclude by urging the SEC to cultivate a regulatory environment that is coherent, transparent, and responsive to the actual dynamics of the market ecosystem, rather than imposing unnecessary restrictions. Rep. Dan Meuser said, “Our letter to the SEC sends a clear message: we won't stand by while unnecessary regulations threaten the health of our markets. Volume-based discounts are more than just numbers; they're about fair play and smart business. The SEC's proposal to do away with them shows a worrying disconnect from real-world market practices. We're in this to protect every investor out there. As Republicans, we believe in rules that make sense, that are based on hard facts, not just theories. Our markets thrive on competition and transparency, and that's the kind of environment we're fighting to preserve."" The letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-leads-effort-to-combat-reserve-and-guard-suicide-rates,Reschenthaler Leads Effort to Combat Reserve & Guard Suicide Rates,2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler, a former U.S. Navy JAG, joined Congressmen Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), a retired U.S. Navy SEAL, and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) in introducing H.R. 6873, legislation which directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to include former members of the Reserves and Guard in their annual suicide report. After the 2020 report, the VA stopped including a separate statistic on suicides of former members of the Guard and Reserve, who were not federally activated. “Over 20 veterans die by suicide each day, a sad reality for our heroes who have sacrificed so much for our nation,” said Reschenthaler. “America has a duty to all those who served our country in uniform to ensure they have the same mental health resources at home that they had on the battlefield. That begins with an accurate count of these tragedies so we can work towards combatting them. I thank Reps. Van Orden and Kilmer for joining me on this important legislation.” “I worked with National Guards and Reserves in combat, and these men and women deserve the same services as active-duty personnel because veteran suicide does not discriminate on the nature of one’s military service,” said Van Orden. “All our servicemembers, regardless of what capacity they served in, deserve to have their mental health and well-being taken seriously. This includes the men and women who have served our nation through the Army Reserves, such as those here at Fort McCoy in Wisconsin’s Third District, and the National Guard. By reinstating former members of the Reserves and the Guard in the Veterans’ Affairs annual suicide report, we will have a more comprehensive understanding of veterans’ mental health and can better identify ways to combat veterans’ suicide and get them the support they need.” “If you serve this country, the federal government should have your back,” said Kilmer. “As a Co-Chair of the House Military Mental Health Task Force, I’m deeply committed to addressing the mental health challenges faced by our service members, including those in the Reserves and National Guard not federally activated during their service. However, the alarming suicide rate among veterans underscores a critical gap in our understanding and support of these brave individuals. By including these former members of the Reserves and National Guard in the VA’s annual suicide report, Congress can take a necessary step toward acknowledging and addressing this crisis. We owe it to every person who has served our nation in the armed forces, in any capacity, to ensure they receive the mental health support they need and deserve.” In 2018, there were 538 suicides among former members of the Armed Forces who were never activated for Federal military service, an average of 1.5 suicide deaths per day, according to the 2020 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. Kilmer and Van Orden are co-chairs of the House Military Mental Health Task Force, which addresses issues pertaining to military mental health and suicide prevention. Reschenthaler is also a member of the task force, collaborating with subject matter experts, disseminating information, and providing resources to members and their staff so they can learn about the challenges facing America’s former and current Service members and their families. Read the full bill here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-pa-lawmakers-to-blinken-marc-fogel-must-be-included-in-any-prisoner-swap,"Reschenthaler, PA Lawmakers to Blinken: Marc Fogel Must Be Included in Any Prisoner Swap",2023-12-21,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), alongside Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA), as well as Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), Dan Meuser (R-PA), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Matt Cartwright (D-PA), Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Susan Wild (D-PA), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), and Summer Lee (D-PA) urged Secretary Antony Blinken to include Pittsburgh-native Marc Fogel in any prisoner swap made with Russia. Fogel has been detained in Russia since August 2021 and is currently serving a 14-year sentence for possession of medical marijuana used to treat his severe back injury, a charge very similar to that of WNBA player Brittney Griner. In the bipartisan, bicameral letter, the lawmakers wrote: “Since Marc Fogel’s arrest, numerous members of the House and Senate from both sides of the aisle have urged the State Department to take further action, including classifying Mr. Fogel as wrongfully detained. Unfortunately, this designation process has stalled while Mr. Fogel’s health has deteriorated. As negotiations are ongoing with the Russian Federation, we respectfully request that any potential prisoner swap must include Mr. Fogel, along with Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich.” Under federal law, Fogel meets at least six of the eleven established criteria to be designated as wrongfully detained by the State Department. He has yet to be classified as wrongfully detained, while Griner was designated in less than three months after her arrest. On December 8, 2022, Griner was released from Russian prison via a prisoner swap for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer known as the “Merchant of Death.” Fogel remains in a Russian penal colony serving his sentence. Read the full letter here. Additional Reschenthaler Efforts: On June 27, 2023, Reschenthaler introduced the Marc Fogel Act, which would require the State Department to provide Congress with copies of documents and communications on why a wrongful determination has or has not been made in cases of U.S. nationals detained abroad within six months of arrest. On August 3, 2022, Reschenthaler led a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging the State Department to immediately classify Marc Fogel as wrongfully detained due to the extreme similarity to Brittney Griner’s case. On October 31, 2022, Reschenthaler led a bipartisan letter to Secretary Blinken demanding the State Department prioritize securing Fogel’s release. On November 3, 2022, Reschenthaler introduced a resolution of inquiry directing President Biden and Secretary Blinken to provide the U.S. House of Representatives with copies of all documents relating to the State Department’s review of the statutory criteria for Fogel to be designated as wrongfully detained. On February 15, 2023, Reschenthaler and Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul led a letter to Secretary Blinken expressing serious concern that the State Department has failed to provide information on why Fogel has not been classified as wrongfully detained.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-colleagues-introduce-restore-protections-dialysis-patients-act,"Kelly, colleagues introduce Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act",2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,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), along with Reps. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Neal Dunn, M.D. (R-FL), Danny Davis (D-IL), John Joyce (R-PA), and Raul Ruiz (D-CA) introduced the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act, bipartisan legislation which aims to ensure that individuals with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) continue to have equitable access to private healthcare and to provide protection of the Medicare Trust Fund. The legislation follows a 2022 Supreme Court ruling that has allowed private health plans to prematurely force ESRD patients onto Medicare, creating disruption in coverage for patients and their families and shifting a significant financial burden onto taxpayers. ""This legislation is critical for Americans living with End Stage Renal Disease and who rely on dialysis,"" said Rep. Kelly. ""Patients deserve to know their benefits will be in place when they need them. This legislation will improve both patient care and patient outcomes. I want to thank my House colleagues for joining me on this vital legislation."" ""Nearly 40 million Americans live with kidney disease, and the millions more at risk deserve our support in their fight against kidney disease — from prevention through post-transplant living,"" said Congresswoman Clarke. ""Unfortunately, far too many patients affected with the disease, which disproportionately impacts communities of color, have complex health care needs that create incentives for plans to discourage enrollment. I’m proud to join my colleague, Congressman Kelly, to introduce the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act, a bipartisan bill which seeks to ensure people on dialysis receive the care they need."" “Americans deserve access to adequate health care coverage, especially those who need dialysis,” said Congressman Dunn. “ESRD patients who rely on dialysis should not see their benefit disappear overnight. We must renew the safeguards that protect dialysis patients and ensure their access to care.” WHAT THEY'RE SAYING Leading patient and physician groups are also hailing the introduction of this critical legislation as a vital and necessary step to improve patient care. “As the leading voice for the nation’s kidney care community, Kidney Care Partners is devoted to ensuring that all ESRD patients can access safe, effective care with coverage of their choice,” said John P. Butler, Chair of Kidney Care Partners. “We thank House lawmakers for introducing the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act, which will protect patient access to private insurer coverage for life-sustaining dialysis treatments.” “People with ESRD are more likely to be low-income and from historically marginalized communities, making premature loss of health coverage and related cost increases particularly devastating,” said LaVarne Burton, President and CEO of the American Kidney Fund (AKF). “Thankfully, the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act will ensure that people with kidney failure won’t be singled out based on their disease or forced to pay higher costs.” “We thank Representatives Kelly, Clarke, Dunn, Davis, Joyce and Ruiz for introducing this pivotal legislation, which will preserve patient choice and incentivize health plans to detect and treat chronic kidney disease (CKD). Unfortunately, my health insurance plan continues to restrict my access to the therapies that my nephrologist has prescribed to delay my kidney disease progression. Without action by Congress, millions of Americans could see their insurers follow suit, as the sooner they can push CKD patients like me into Medicare without paying any cost for doing so, the more likely we are to progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD),” said Hrant Jamgochian, J.D., LL.M., CEO of Dialysis Patient Citizens. “Private insurance can be vital to patients’ access to care and plays a critical role in ensuring the stability of the Medicare system,” said Keith A. Bellovich, DO, President of the Renal Physicians Association. “I urge House lawmakers to swiftly advance this legislation, which will make a meaningful difference for the more than 800,000 patients living with kidney failure.” “The Marietta v. DaVita decision will force people who have kidney failure off their private insurance into Medicare,"" said Lori Hartwell, Founder and President of the Renal Support Network. “Health plans should not be able to decide they don’t want to cover you when your kidneys fail, a critical time when you need your insurance and care team the most. It is an unfair, discriminatory policy and a slippery slope for other chronic conditions.” BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-announces-inaugural-congressional-app-challenge-winner,Smucker Announces Inaugural Congressional App Challenge Winner,2023-12-20,2023,2023-12,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) is proud to announce the winner of Pennsylvania Eleventh Congressional District’s Inaugural Congressional App Challenge (CAC), which encourages students to utilize their STEM skills to create their own original app. The program was open to area middle and high school students in Lancaster and York counties. The 2023 Winning Team is a team of students from Red Lion, including students Kelechi Okereh, Bannon Green, Chance Keithan, and Jenna Tracey. Their app called William’s Penn, was developed as a virtual information hub to share information about Pennsylvania’s founder, William Penn, share fun and engaging games, and provide a community board to allow for postings from small businesses. The team was mentored by Morgan Hepburn. Smucker visited with the team at Red Lion Senior High School to meet and congratulate them on their CAC win and to present them with Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition. “Each of these students who participated in the Congressional App Challenge has a bright future. I want to congratulate our winners from Red Lion and give my sincere thanks to each of the students and school districts who participated in this year’s challenge. The community should be proud of these students’ efforts. I am amazed at the students’ skills and problem-solving abilities demonstrated through coding. I look forward to seeing next year’s submissions and would encourage any interested student to participate,” said Rep. Smucker.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-meuser-reacts-pennsylvania-imposing-tax-lien-ashley-biden,Rep. Meuser Reacts to Pennsylvania Imposing Tax Lien on Ashley Biden,2023-12-19,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) released the below statement following the news that the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue had imposed a $5,079 tax lien on the property of Ashley Biden, President Joe Biden’s daughter, for failing to pay income taxes. Ashley Biden failed to pay $1,691 in income taxes to Pennsylvania in 2015 and $1,956 in 2021. As a result, the Commonwealth imposed a $2,736 and $2,249 lien respectively on her property, along with a $94 filing fee. Rep. Meuser said, “One could say the Biden family is either one of privilege or carelessness. Ashley Biden has an estimated net worth of nearly $2 million, and she can’t even find the time to pay $5,000 of her Pennsylvania taxes. So, therefore, the Commonwealth has a lien on her property, meaning PA is a priority creditor and must be paid before Ashley can make any substantial financial transaction. It should be noted that a lien is imposed as an action of last resort after repeated attempts to collect the payment have gone unanswered and an extended period of time has passed. At best it’s sad, at worst it’s unlawful. At best it’s sad, at worst it’s unlawful. Tax payment compliance in Pennsylvania is not difficult, and in Ashley Biden’s case, she has the means to pay her taxes. Joe Biden loves chastising American taxpayers in the highest tax bracket — maybe there are a couple of other people he should be chastising.” Rep. Meuser’s comments on the matter were featured in a recent New York Post article.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-meuser-introduces-bill-promote-access-capital-small-businesses,Rep. Meuser Introduces Bill to Promote Access to Capital for Small Businesses,2023-12-15,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) introduced H.R. 6825, the Amendment for Crowdfunding Capital Enhancement and Small-business Support (ACCESS) Act. The legislation seeks to increase access to capital for small businesses and startups by raising the crowdfunding exemption from $100,000 to $250,000. Regulation Crowdfunding, commonly referred to as Reg CF, is a way for small businesses and startups to raise money from the general public by selling small amounts of their equity, like shares in their company, or debt, similar to loans that need to be paid back with interest, to the public. Currently, issuers using the crowdfunding exemption must file financial statements reviewed by an independent public accountant when the offering amount is over $100,000. This requirement can be cost-prohibitive for smaller issuers, as the average cost to file these statements is around $10,000, representing a significant expense relative to the amount raised. The bill seeks to increase this threshold to $250,000, a level temporarily adopted by the SEC during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that period, the crowdfunding program continued to work as designed, suggesting that a higher threshold could support small businesses without compromising investor protection. Rep. Meuser said, “Access to capital remains one of the greatest challenges facing small businesses. By raising the crowdfunding exemption, we can provide entrepreneurs with a cost-effective method to raise capital and grow new businesses across the country. This legislation is a win for small businesses and keeps America as a competitive destination for small business growth and development.” Original cosponsors of the bill are Reps. Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Pete Sessions (TX-17), and Zach Nunn (IA-03). Text of the legislation can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-dingell-introduce-the-knockout-cancer-act,"Fitzpatrick, Dingell Introduce the Knockout Cancer Act",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) introduced the Knockout (K.O.) Cancer Act of 2023. The bipartisan legislation boosts funding for the National Cancer Institute by 25 percent over fiscal years 2024 through 2028 to more appropriately align with the current cancer mortality rates. Additionally, the Knockout Cancer Act asks Congress for a report on the devastating shortage of cancer drugs that is facing our nation. ""Over 5 decades ago, our nation declared war on cancer with the signing of the National Cancer Act. We have made significant progress in combatting this devastating disease, but there is still work yet to be done"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick, co-chair of the House Cancer Caucus. ""Current funding levels for research do not meet the alarming rate at which Americans are dying from this horrendous disease, and I am proud to lead the bipartisan Knockout (K.O) Cancer Act to ensure that the medical research community has adequate funding so that we can eventually defeat cancer once and for all."" “We must redouble our efforts to research, treat, and cure cancer, and address cancer drug shortages that are hurting patients across the country,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “The Knock Out Cancer Act will strengthen investments in research at the NIH to help develop innovative treatments and cures for cancers of all types, and I am proud to partner with Rep. Fitzpatrick on this legislation.” “Research at AACI cancer centers lays the foundation for tomorrow’s cures,” said Association of American Cancer Institutes Executive Director Jennifer W. Pegher. “We support legislation and efforts by our congressional champions that aim to ensure that the life-saving work of our members is sustained by robust increases in federal funding.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-applauds-us-army-corps-engineers-awarding-contract-erie-harbor-dredging,Kelly applauds U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for awarding contract for Erie harbor dredging project,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ERIE, Pa. -- On Wednesday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Buffalo District awarded a $682,000 contract to Michigan-based Ryba Marine Construction Co. on Dec. 6 to conduct dredging of the federal navigation channel in Erie Harbor. Dredging of harbors like Erie’s ensures accessible depths for large vessels, the continued flow of commodities across the Great Lakes, and the economic viability of United States waterways. U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) applauded the USACE's investment. “Lake Erie is a natural and economic treasure that serves as an integral part of Erie’s identity. Through this work, we are supporting the use of the nation’s waterways and ports to strengthen supply chains, grow businesses, and improve the infrastructure of Lake Erie and our surrounding areas,” said U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (PA-16). “Thank you to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for recognizing the importance of maintaining these resources.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-supports-2024-national-defense-authorization-act-largest-pay-raise,"Kelly supports 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, largest pay raise for military service members in 20 years",2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,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 support of the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a comprehensive package of legislation to support our military and national defense programs. ""Today's vote is a win for the American people and our national security. We must give our military every tool possible to keep our great nation safe,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""I'm proud to support the 5.2% pay raise for our Servicemembers, which is the largest pay raise in 20 years. During a time of global uncertainty, it is imperative that we strengthen our military and support those who so bravely serve in it."" WHAT'S INCLUDED The FY24 NDAA: Boosts Servicemember pay and benefits and improves the quality of life for military families by including a 5.2% pay raise for military service members, the largest in 20 years Builds and maintains the overmatch we need to counter Communist China’s aggression by strengthening homeland defense and preventing CCP espionage Supports border security by providing funding for counterdrug and counter transnational organized crime activities by adding planning services to the types of support that the DoD can provide law enforcement Pushes back against the radical woke ideology being forced on our servicemen and women and restores the focus of our military on lethality",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-kelly-statement-house-formally-launching-impeachment-inquiry,Rep. Mike Kelly statement on House formally launching impeachment inquiry into President Biden,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,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 after the U.S. House voted to formally launch an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. ""With a formal impeachment inquiry into President Biden underway, it’s important that we follow the facts to where they lead,"" said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA). ""Over the last several months, investigations led by the House Committees on Ways & Means, Judiciary, and Oversight have produced important information, but questions still remain. We will go where the evidence takes us. The American people deserve the truth.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-meuser-leads-follow-letter-sec-urging-consideration-dwac-truth-social,Rep. Meuser Leads Follow-Up Letter to SEC Urging Consideration of DWAC-Truth Social Merger,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) sent a letter to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Gary Gensler urging speedy consideration of the Digital World Acquisition Corp. (DWAC)-Truth Social merger. After clearing several bureaucratic hurdles imposed by the SEC over the past year, DWAC submitted a revised S-4 filling for consideration on November 14, 2023. Approval of this form is the final step in the merger process, yet the SEC has once again failed to take up the matter. The patience of DWAC's investors has already been significantly tested due to the postponed review of the initial S-4 filing, the protracted timeline of the SEC's investigation, and other drawn-out delays. Despite these setbacks, investors demonstrated their commitment to this investment on September 5, 2023, by voting to extend DWAC’s deadline to complete a merger. This action and continued support for the merger is evidence of the investors’ interest in moving forward without further delay. For nearly a year, Congressman Meuser has been seeking answers and fighting on behalf of Truth Social’s small, blue-collar investors that have been harmed by the SEC’s delay. Meuser has questioned SEC Chairman Gensler and General Counsel Barbero in open hearings, formally written to Chairman Gensler, and has regularly corresponded and met with other SEC officials on the matter. Meuser said, “The SEC’s mission is to protect investors, maintain fair and orderly markets, and facilitate capital formation. We must now see this mission in action through the expedient handling of this matter. The prolonged uncertainty the SEC created through extensive delays which characterized the DWAC situation is counterproductive for all parties involved. A timely resolution is in the best interest of all 350,000 investors and the markets at large, and I urge the SEC to prioritize the review process for DWAC's S-4 filing.” Text of the letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/12/14/2023/reschenthaler-applauds-house-passage-of-the-national-defense-authorization-act,Reschenthaler Applauds House Passage of the National Defense Authorization Act,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2670, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024: “As a Navy veteran, I understand how vital it is that our military has the resources it needs to deter our adversaries and protect our nation. This year’s defense bill includes many significant conservative priorities championed by House Republicans, including the largest pay raise for our servicemembers in 20 years and the elimination of policies and programs promoting the woke ideology undermining our military readiness. While not a perfect plan, this legislation will combat evil worldwide, stand up for our troops, and ensure our nation’s defense remains the strongest force the world has ever seen.” Specifically, the FY24 NDAA: Supports servicemembers and their families by providing a 5.2 percent pay raise, the largest in 20 years. Requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to correct personnel files of servicemembers discharged for not taking the COVID-19 vaccine so that they receive full benefits in retirement. Reigns in Democrat efforts to inject wokeness into the military. Supports America’s allies and partners. Strengthens readiness and lethality. Counters adversarial threats. Provides DOD support in securing the border. Initiatives led by Reschenthaler were included in the bill, including: Sense of Congress regarding the antisemitic efforts of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement against the State of Israel, including its efforts to delegitimize, isolate, and ultimately destroy the Jewish state. Requiring a report on products sold at commissaries or exchange stores in FY21 or 22 that were produced by companies that participated in a boycott against the State of Israel. Language supporting southwestern Pennsylvania priorities such as coal-derived materials and explosive welding in DOD.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-introduces-bipartisan-improve-and-enhance-work-opportunity-tax-credit,Smucker Introduces Bipartisan Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act,2023-12-14,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) has introduced the bipartisan Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act, alongside Reps. Terri Sewell (AL-7), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Steven Horsford (NV-4), and Mike Kelly (PA-16). The legislation strengthens the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which has a proven track record of connecting disadvantaged individuals to employment and has long received bipartisan support. Click here for bill text. The WOTC provides federal tax credit to employers who invest in American workers who have consistently faced barriers to employment, including eligible veterans, SNAP recipients, individuals with disabilities, and long-term unemployed individuals. Employers incur higher recruitment and training costs to reach WOTC eligible populations and support their successful transition back into employment. WOTC has not been updated since its enactment twenty-seven years ago and its value has been eroded significantly due to inflation. “Connecting individuals to great-paying jobs through a strengthened Work Opportunity Tax Credit will grow our economy and reduce long-term unemployment. We know that the best anti-poverty program is a good job. I thank my colleagues for joining me in introducing the pro-growth Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act on a bipartisan basis. The WOTC has received bipartisan support since its enactment, and I am hopeful that my colleagues in Congress will join with me in supporting this legislation to improve a proven job creating tax credit,” said Rep. Smucker. “As Americans continue to return to the workforce, employers need a modern tool to help recruit and retain individuals seeking long-term employment opportunities,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am proud that this legislation builds upon the prior successes of Work Opportunity Tax Credit while factoring in the twenty-five years of economic change our country has seen since its enactment.” ""The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a proven resource to assist disadvantaged Americans with employment,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""By adjusting credit amounts to account for inflation and eliminating arbitrary age limits, the bipartisan Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act will ensure that more individuals can utilize this important program and encourage long-term employment."" ""In Southern Nevada and across the United States, hard-working people need help to find good jobs that pay living wages. By increasing the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), Congress can make it easier for employers to bring on new workers and keep our economy strong,"" said Congressman Steven Horsford. ""I'm glad to support the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act, which will make the largest difference for those hit the hardest by unemployment, including people of color, young workers, women, people with disabilities, veterans, and underserved communities."" Background: The Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act of 2023 would update the WOTC, which has not been changed since its enactment twenty-seven years ago, and encourage longer-service employment. The bill would (1) increase the current credit percentage from 40% to 50% of qualified wages and (2) add a second level of credit for employees who work 400 or more hours. In addition, the bill eliminates the arbitrary age cap at which SNAP recipients are eligible for WOTC. This change will provide an incentive to hire older workers and better align the credit with the work reforms adopted in the debt ceiling negotiations in 2023. The National Employment Opportunity Network reports that the WOTC has saved federal governments an estimated $202 billion over ten years. What are they saying about the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act? “As a constituent of Congressman Smucker and the President of the National Employment Opportunity Network (NEON), an organization dedicated to incentives to encourage the hiring of disadvantaged and marginalized individuals, I am pleased to endorse the “Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act”. This legislation expands and updates the work opportunity credit to further facilitate the hiring of individuals on public assistance programs. Congressman Smucker’s bill would provide employers with greater resources to extend employment opportunities to those who face barriers to employment by increasing the WOTC wage base, which has been unchanged for twenty-five years, and by eliminating the thirty-nine year old upper age limit for the WOTC SNAP category. Congressman Smucker’s bill recognizes that the costs of on-boarding and providing on-the-job training have increased dramatically since WOTC started and will facilitate the hiring of older Americans who find themselves in need of rejoining the workforce. Congressman Smucker understands that we all benefit when job opportunities are extended to individuals who face barriers in the workforce, and I urge Congress to adopt as soon as possible his proposals to update and expand a very successful program,” said Kitty Leggieri, President of the National Employment Opportunity Network. “The Critical Labor Coalition strongly supports the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) Act and applauds Rep. Smucker for making this a priority as we work together to address the labor shortage,” said Misty Chally, Executive Director, Critical Labor Coalition. “As many businesses continue to struggle with workforce shortages and the economy faces record unemployment, this jobs-focused legislation will remove roadblocks for job seekers and help employers fully staff their businesses.” “FMI – The Food Industry Association applauds Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) for their leadership in improving the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). WOTC is an important workforce-building tool, utilized by our grocery, wholesaler, and product supplier members, to hire individuals facing barriers to employment. FMI is pleased to support this bipartisan effort to strengthen the path for veterans, SNAP participants, justice-involved individuals, and others to obtain meaningful employment in the food industry,” said Christine Pollack, FMI Vice President, Government Relations. This legislation is also supported by: National Restaurant Association, Retail Industry Leaders Association, National Grocers Association, International Franchise Association, American Health Care Association, American Hotel & Lodging Association, The American Seniors Housing Association, American Staffing Association, the Family League of Baltimore, and the National Beer Wholesalers Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-statement-on-impeachment-inquiry,Fitzpatrick Statement on Impeachment Inquiry,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) issued the following statement following a vote on an impeachment inquiry procedural resolution: As I stated back in 2019, ‘second only to declaring war, impeaching a President and overturning the results of an election is the most significant action that Congress can take. Impeachment is a constitutional nuclear option of last resort. Historical precedent demands that this only occurs in the most extreme of circumstances, and should happen only after a formal law enforcement investigation where independent, non-partisan factual findings of criminal activity are presented to Congress. As a former FBI Supervisory Special Agent and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, any legitimate investigation must be completely nonpartisan, must be 360 degrees in its scope, must leave no stone unturned, must not prejudge the outcome, must follow the facts wherever they lead and must report those facts with unimpeachable integrity.’ Let me be clear: today’s inquiry resolution only authorizes the Oversight, Ways and Means, and Judiciary committees to continue their already existing investigation, and allows them to fully enforce currently outstanding, congressionally-issued subpoenas. It does not contain any articles of impeachment. Why is this step necessary? The White House, in a November 17, 2023 letter to Congress where they refused to comply with congressional subpoenas and interview requests, justified their failure to cooperate by stating that “…the Constitution requires that the full House authorize an impeachment inquiry before a committee may utilize compulsory process pursuant to the impeachment power…”. So, in other words, this White House response has forced us to hold this vote before they are willing to cooperate with congressionally-authorized subpoenas and allow for full transparency and a determination of all the facts. The American people deserve complete transparency and an indisputable evidentiary record. Moreover, the House must have all of the facts before deciding whether or not to proceed with this matter any further. Until we have all of the facts, no one should prejudge or pursue any predetermined outcome based on partisan politics. I certainly will not. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyces-5g-sale-act-passes-house,Dr. Joyce’s 5G SALE Act Passes House,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,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 the 5G SALE Act passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously. The bill will now go to the White House for President Biden’s signature. The 5G Spectrum Authority Licensing Enforcement (5G SALE) Act would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to release previously auctioned bands of the electromagnetic spectrum to expand access to 5G broadband to rural communities. “Government red tape should never stand in the way of bringing high-speed internet to our rural communities,” said Congressman Joyce. “As we look to provide resources for remote work, remote learning, and telehealth care for patients, the 5G SALE Act will be a vital tool for deploying fast and reliable internet access. I’m proud to see this legislation pass unanimously and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.” Background: The FCC sold approximately 8,000 licenses to grant internet providers access to America’s broadband spectrum. These licenses are the only way companies can legally use the radio waves that bring 5G internet to customers. During the period between when providers paid for these licenses and when the FCC should have parceled the licenses out, there was a lapse in the FCC’s ability to authorize the use of these radio waves. Now, despite internet providers having fully purchased the frequencies necessary to deliver 5G internet, the FCC has stated they are unable to issue these licenses.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-statement-on-impeachment-inquiry-authorization-into-president-biden,Reschenthaler Statement on Impeachment Inquiry Authorization into President Biden,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) released the following statement after the House passed H. Res. 918, authorizing an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. “This Congress, House Republicans have uncovered a mountain of evidence implicating President Joe Biden in his family’s influence-peddling schemes. But time and time again, the president’s son and his administration officials have defied subpoenas and refused to meet with House investigators regarding these damning allegations. Let’s be clear: Having a famous last name does not make you immune from following the law. By stonewalling and slow-walking this process, the president, his family, and his allies have done a grave disservice to our nation – obstructing Congress’ oversight duty and blocking witness testimonies. That ends today with the formalization of an impeachment inquiry. The American people are owed accountability from their government, and House Republicans are committed to following the facts – wherever they may lead. This official inquiry will empower the House’s relevant committees to investigate these allegations free from Biden Administration obstruction. Through this House resolution, the truth will be found, and Americans will be given the answers they deserve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-approves-whole-milk-healthy-kids-act,House Approves Whole Milk For Healthy Kids Act,2023-12-13,2023,2023-12,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 today, along with 329 of his colleagues, voted in favor of H.R. 1147, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. This legislation, which passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support, will restore the option of whole milk in school nutrition programs. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023 ensures that students receive the many health benefits and nutrients milk provides to young Americans, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes. According to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, milk is a source of three-out-of-four under-consumed nutrients – calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. No other beverage naturally comes close to this level of nutritional value. ""Milk is an essential building block for a well-rounded and balanced diet, offering 13 essential nutrients and numerous health benefits. However, out-of-touch and outdated federal regulations have imposed restrictions on the types of milk students have access to in school meals,” Rep. Thompson said. “I am pleased to see my bipartisan Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act pass out of the United States House of Representatives, and I ultimately look forward to restoring access to these nutritious beverages in schools across the country."" “As a pediatrician, I have spent my career dedicated to the well-being of children and I know how important adequate nutrition is for growing kids,” Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. said. “A healthy diet early in life leads to proper physical growth, improved academic performance, and a strong foundation for healthy eating habits as an adult. Milk, which provides essential calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D, is an essential part of that diet. Whole milk is a filling, nutritious option that will help ensure that our children are well-fed and healthy.” “NMPF applauds Representatives Glenn “GT” Thompson and Kim Schrier for their leadership in increasing students’ access to crucial nutrition with their Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. This bipartisan measure helps address kids’ underconsumption of the vital nutrients milk provides. This bill allows schools to offer students healthful milk options that they are more likely to choose to drink by expanding the milk options schools can choose to serve to also include the most popular and also nutritious reduced fat and whole milk varieties. NMPF thanks Representatives Thompson and Schrier for spearheading this bipartisan, commonsense, widely supported solution to address students’ nutrition insecurity across the U.S.” – Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of National Milk Producers Federation “IDFA applauds the strong bipartisan passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act by the U.S. House of Representatives. This bill would allow schools to once again provide children with a wide variety of milk options that they will drink and that meet their individual needs—whether that be whole and 2%, low-fat milks, or lactose-free milks. Whole milk and reduced-fat milks alike provide children with 13 essential nutrients for growth, development, healthy immune function, and overall wellness. A wide majority of parents and medical and nutrition professionals know that offering these options increases school meal participation, reduces food waste, and provides nutritionally valuable school meals for children and adolescents. IDFA is grateful to Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, Rep. Kim Schrier, and the many other lawmakers who for years have championed this effort to reinstate the full suite nutritious milk options in school meals. We strongly urge the Senate to pass this legislation.” – Michael Dykes, D.V.M., President and CEO, International Dairy Foods Association “Milk is an important building block for America’s children. Unfortunately, whole and 2% milk aren’t allowed in school lunch programs, limiting access to protein, calcium and vitamins at important times in children’s development. AFBF appreciates Rep. GT Thompson for his leadership on the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023, which will ensure schools can include all milk options to students.”– Zippy Duvall, President American Farm Bureau Federation “Pennsylvania Farm Bureau members have waited for over a decade to see progress made on getting whole and two percent milk back in schools. Today, the House had a historic vote for the dairy industry by passing H.R.1147, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023. Of course, our dairy farmers are going to see benefits of this legislation, but America’s students and families are also beneficiaries. School meals provide nutritional equity and food security. Low-income families who already are struggling to put dinner on the table, cannot afford to purchase the most expensive type of milk. However, medical research and pediatricians have attested that our children need the 21 essential minerals and 13 vitamins necessary for healthy development. We look forward to restoring nutritious beverage options in schools, growing the current pool of fluid milk consumers, and making the dairy industry more profitable for years to come.” – Chris Hoffman, President Pennsylvania Farm Bureau “Today is a win for the kids, for the people, for the farmers. Whole milk choice in schools is clearly an improvement for our nation’s future leaders. House passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is a milestone we have worked for over the past decade since the federal government exiled whole milk, a nutritionally superior beverage choice, from school cafeterias based on outdated science. Over this time, we have seen school milk consumption decrease while volumes of discarded milk have increased along with the overweight and obesity trends in school-aged children. When students are able to choose milk they will love, they are then able to truly benefit from milk’s 13 essential nutrients and unique matrix for health. We can’t thank Chairman G.T. Thompson enough for his dedication in championing the idea that schools should be free to offer, and parents and children should be free to choose whole milk at school meals. In our educational outreach, we hear from school personnel, parents, and students, who are excited to be one step closer to nourishing growing minds and bodies with the nutritious and delicious option of whole milk.” – Bernie Morrissey, Chairman of the Grassroots Pennsylvania Dairy Advisory Committee and G.N. Hursh, Chairman of 97 Milk ""I'm delighted to see this change, which is backed by the most rigorous science showing that regular dairy is the healthiest for growing children. This law is a rare instance in nutrition where good science has triumphed over special interests."" – Nina Teicholz, Founder of The Nutrition Coalition “We are pleased to see the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act gain passage in the House of Representatives. As farmers, we produce a wholesome product that our nation's children should be able to choose. We thank Rep. Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson for his diligence toward the goal of students having the freedom to choose whole milk at school and making it possible for schools to offer this nutritional choice without the fear of losing federal meal and education dollars. Scientific evidence supports fuller fat milk and dairy as an excellent source of vital nutrients and other health benefits. While the natural milkfat aids absorption of key vitamins, it also brings flavor to the table so students can enjoy and benefit from all that milk has to offer them.” – Walt Moore, Chairman of American Dairy Coalition ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-bill-approved-in-house-passed-lower-costs-more-transparency-act,"Fitzpatrick Bill Approved in House-Passed Lower Costs, More Transparency Act",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – A bipartisan bill put forth by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03), the Health Insurance Price Transparency Act, was included as part of the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act that passed the House on Monday with resounding bipartisan support. ""Every American has the right to know the true cost of their healthcare services before seeing a bill,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""My Health Insurance Price Transparency Act protects patients by demanding transparency and ensuring that important information about treatment options is readily available. I am thrilled to see this legislation included in our larger package, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, which passed with bipartisan support. I thank Chairman Smith, Chairwoman Foxx, and Chairwoman Rodgers for their support."" “With the House’s passage of this critical legislation this week, we are one step closer to making health care costs more transparent and easier to understand, so Americans can make the best decision for themselves and their family,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Common-sense, bipartisan solutions like these must be the priority here in Congress. I’m proud to partner with Congressman Fitzpatrick in that pursuit.” “Millions of American families have struggled for far too long to afford the cost of their health care. What’s worse is they have been unable to anticipate those costs because our current system has left too many Americans at the mercy of nontransparent pricing on treatments, medicines, and procedures,"" said Chairman Smith. ""By requiring nearly every corner of our health system to publicly disclose their prices, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act will empower patients and create incentives to lower prices across the board. Americans will no longer be left in the dark, struggling to understand the true price of their health care."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-gluesenkamp-perez-introduce-the-fair-wage-act,"Fitzpatrick, Gluesenkamp Perez Introduce the Fair Wage Act",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) introduced the bipartisan Fair Wage Act to index the federal minimum wage to a regional cost-of-living standard. This holistic legislation also adjusts cash wages of tipped employees and the wages for newly hired employees under the age of 18, such as high school students employed for a summer job. “Our nation’s workers deserve a fair wage that accounts for varying, regional cost-of-living rates,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “While others pursue partisan and unrealistic measures to address the broken minimum wage standard, I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Fair Wage Act with Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez. Our legislation recognizes that the federal minimum wage in my home of Levittown has a disparate impact than it does in Los Angeles or Little Rock. We must ensure that when it comes to the minimum wage, Americans can rely on being compensated appropriately based on where they work, live, raise their families, and pay taxes.” “As working families feel the pain of rising costs, it’s becoming harder to make ends meet by working a full-time job. Wages just aren’t keeping pace with inflation in some communities. My husband and I own an auto repair and machine shop, and we know without living wages people exit the trades early in their career. It’s essential that jobs in the trades remain a pathway to the middle class,” said Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m grateful for Congressman Fitzpatrick’s partnership on this bipartisan solution to make sure the minimum wage reflects economic realities on the ground across Southwest Washington. By taking a dynamic and regional approach that accounts for the cost of living, the Fair Wage Act will help ensure the minimum wage is tailored to families’ needs.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-top-house-committees-celebrate-passage-bipartisan-bill-lower-health-care,"Kelly, Top House Committees Celebrate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Lower Health Care Costs and Increase Transparency",2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Monday, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), a member of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Health, joined the House of Representatives to pass landmark bipartisan legislation to lower the cost of health care and increase price transparency for patients. Led by House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO), House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), and House Education and the Workforce Committee Chair Virginia Foxx (R-NC), H.R. 5378, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, will lower health care costs by increasing transparency in the health care market. ""The Lower Costs, More Transparency Act is critical legislation that will help patients navigate the increasingly complex and expensive health care system,"" said Rep. Kelly. ""Over the last year, I've worked with Chairman Smith and my Ways and Means colleagues to advance important and life-saving health care legislation that will improve patient care and patient outcomes. Additionally, by reforming Medicare payment programs, we aim to save seniors millions on their medications. This bipartisan bill is a major victory for Americans who are seeking easier and more affordable access to health care."" “Millions of American families have struggled for far too long to afford the cost of their health care. What’s worse is they have been unable to anticipate those costs because our current system has left too many Americans at the mercy of nontransparent pricing on treatments, medicines, and procedures. By requiring nearly every corner of our health system to publicly disclose their prices, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act will empower patients and create incentives to lower prices across the board. Americans will no longer be left in the dark, struggling to understand the true price of their health care,” said Chair Smith. “This bipartisan legislation delivers on our commitment to lowering health care costs and providing increased transparency for patients—something 95 percent of Americans support. It helps Americans save money on out-of-pocket expenses and seniors save millions on medicines through important Medicare payment reforms. I thank my colleagues for their hard work and support of the legislation and urge the Senate to consider it without delay,” said Chair Rodgers. “The Lower Costs, More Transparency Act does exactly what it says it does—it delivers lower health care costs for the American people and brings much-needed transparency to our nation’s complex health care system. This bipartisan bill is a victory for everyone who has ever struggled to navigate and understand the cost of a health care procedure or a prescription drug. I’m also pleased it will help make health care more accessible to American families by investing in Community Health Centers and programs to address the physician shortages across the nation,” said Ranking Member Pallone. “The Lower Costs, More Transparency Act is all about empowering patients and their families. Every patient should be able to navigate the health care market with ease. This bill makes that vision a reality by building on the success of the Trump administration’s price transparency rules for plans and hospitals, making PBM activities more transparent, and ensuring employers have the information they need to make smart choices on behalf of their employees. I thank my colleagues on the Committees on Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce for working with us to develop a bill that is an enormous step forward to improving the American health care system,” said Chair Virginia Foxx. How the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act helps patients: Increases Price Transparency Throughout the Health Care System for Patients Empowers patients and employers to shop for health care and make informed health care decisions by providing timely and accurate information about the cost of care, treatment, and services Makes health care price information public by ensuring hospitals, insurance companies, labs, imaging providers, and ambulatory surgical centers publicly list the prices they charge patients Lowers costs for patients and employers by requiring health insurers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to disclose negotiated drug rebates and discounts Addresses the Cost of Prescription Drugs Lowers out-of-pocket costs for seniors who receive medication at a hospital-owned outpatient facility Expands access to more affordable generic drugs Equips employer health plans with the drug price information they need to get the best deal possible for their employees Supports Patients, Health Care Workers, Community Health Centers, and Hospitals Fully pays for expiring programs that strengthen the health care system by: Supporting Community Health Centers, which are crucial for patients in rural and underserved areas Supporting training programs for new doctors in communities Preserving Medicaid for hospitals that take care of uninsured and low-income patients Extending funding for research to find better treatments and a cure for diabetes, which affects more than 37 million Americans",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-workforce-priorities-advance-committee,Smucker Workforce Priorities Advance in Committee,2023-12-12,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington – Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) voted in favor of advancing H.R. 6655, A Stronger Workforce for America Act, during a meeting of the House Education and the Workforce Committee. The legislation was reported favorably with a 44-1 bipartisan vote. Rep. Smucker’s legislation to codify the Reentry Program, which provides grants to organizations that promote and assist in the reentry of justice-involved individuals into the workforce, was included in the underlying text of H.R. 6655. Additionally, the Building Youth Workforce Skills Act Smucker introduced with Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-1), to expand federal workforce program offerings to school-aged children for additional career pathways to success, was advanced in H.R. 6655. The bipartisan A Stronger Workforce for America Act, introduced by Chairwoman Rep. Virginia Foxx (NC-5) and Ranking Member Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-3), also addresses a key concern about how bureaucratic program requirements are blocking PA-11 institutions from participating in federal workforce programs offered through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Click here to watch Rep. Smucker’s remarks from today’s committee hearing. Below are Smucker’s remarks on H.R. 6655, A Stronger Workforce for America Act, as prepared for delivery: “I am pleased that we are considering this legislation today which takes huge strides towards improving our nation’s workforce development programs, also called WIOA programs, at a time when industries are crying out for more workers. One provision of this bill that is particularly important to my constituents is a measure that streamlines the “eligible training provider list,” or ETPL, which training providers must apply for in order to access the WIOA system. Businesses in my district have told me that the process of applying to the ETPL is burdensome and time-consuming, and in the end they simply don’t have the bandwidth to apply and have to decline to participate in WIOA. By reducing red tape and simplifying procedures, this bill will ensure that high-quality programs will be able to access the ETPL and use WIOA dollars for their programs that meet strong employment outcomes. I am also glad that significant portions of my bipartisan bill to codify the Reentry Program were included in the text of this legislation. The Reentry Program provides grants to promote and assist those exiting the justice system as they seek a job and re-enter our communities. The bill we are considering would implement rigorous performance metrics on eligible workforce development programs, including faith-based organizations, local workforce development boards, and others to ensure that the individuals they assist are obtaining stable employment and incentivized not to re-offend. My provisions are not creating a new program but, rather, are reasserting congressional oversight over the Reentry Program that has existed outside of statute. In this way, our body will be able to enforce outcomes metrics and help build a stable workforce pipeline for those exiting the justice system. Finally, the bill we are considering today includes a piece of legislation that I was honored to co-lead with my friend from Texas, Congressman Moran, and extends eligibility for Individualized Training Accounts, or ITAs, to in-school youth. More and more young people are realizing that there are education options besides a traditional four-year university and they want to enter the workforce on a faster timeline. If they are otherwise eligible for WIOA programs, young people that are still in school should have access to ITAs that allow them to receive workforce development training and take steps towards their future career in in-demand industries. To conclude, A Stronger Workforce for America Act includes meaningful reforms that will make the WIOA system more impactful and develop a new generation of workers who can meet the needs of our communities. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this bill and urge all my colleagues to vote yes. Thank you, Madam Chairwoman, and I yield back.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-bonamici-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-boost-education-research,"Fitzpatrick, Bonamici Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Education Research",2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced bipartisan legislation to accelerate innovation in teaching and learning by establishing a national center to promote informed-risk, high-reward education research. The New Essential Education Discoveries (NEED) Act of 2023 would create a National Center for Advanced Development in Education (NCADE) with the purpose of developing and disseminating effective practices and tools to improve students’ academic performance and close longstanding achievement gaps. The NCADE would be the fifth center under the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) and follow a successful model similar to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). “Congress has the responsibility to ensure that students across America have the resources available to reach their full potential,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Our bipartisan NEED Act will create a national center dedicated to developing innovative tools based on data and technological advances to help close learning gaps, and I am proud to join Congresswoman Bonamici on this important legislation.” “Investing in education research will support the development of literacy skills and other critical components of a well-rounded education, help students get back on track after the pandemic disrupted learning, and more,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “The NEED Act will focus on innovative approaches and technologies in education and will improve implementation of education R&D. These critical investments are designed to strengthen teaching and learning to reach more students—particularly students who face the greatest opportunity gaps.” “Everyone should have the information they need to make informed decisions about their own education and workforce pathways, support individuals navigating these pathways, and create policies that might help others navigate smoother pathways,” said Jennifer Bell-Ellwanger, president and CEO, Data Quality Campaign. “Data Quality Campaign applauds the efforts of Rep. Bonamici and Rep. Fitzpatrick to reimagine statewide longitudinal data systems as tools for providing better support, transparency, and high-quality data to individuals navigating their journeys through education and the workforce.” ""For years, our nation has asked our teachers to innovate in a classroom environment that continues shifting - teachers have stepped up to meet that challenge,"" said Kira Orange Jones, CEO of Teach Plus. ""It is essential we stand alongside teachers and students by creating the infrastructure to use new data and research to meet the demands of a 21st century education and the learning challenges American children face. The NEED Act will create an infrastructure that helps to innovate schools and better serve our students."" The NEED Act would also update Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems (SLDS) and help states better track the progress and outcomes of students through K-12 and into the workforce. The legislation is endorsed by: Advanced Education Research and Development Fund (AERDF); America Forward; American Educational Research Association; American Federation of Teachers; American Psychological Association Services; Association of Public Data Users (APDU); Beyond100K; CAST, Inc.; Coalition for Community Schools; Committee for Children; Common Sense Media; Data Quality Campaign; Digital Promise Global; EDGE Consulting Partners; Education Reform Now; Educators for Excellence; ExcelinEd in Action; Federation of American Scientists; Formation Ventures; Foundation for American Innovation; InnovateEDU; Institute for Educational Leadership; Knowledge Alliance; Kumar Garg; Schmidt Futures; LearningForge LLC; Lehigh University; Luminary Labs; National Alliance for Public Charter Schools; National Association of Secondary School Principals; National Center for Learning Disabilities; New Classrooms; New Leaders; North Dakota Department of Public Instruction; Results for America; SETDA; Teach Plus; The Education Trust; The Learning Agency; The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD); The Tech Interactive; Thomas B. Fordham Institute; TNTP; and Transcend. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-honors-knoch-high-school-students-winning-2023-congressional-app,Rep. Kelly honors Knoch High School students for winning 2023 Congressional App Challenge,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BUTLER, Pa. -- On Friday, December 8, 2023, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) held an awards ceremony for local students who won the 2023 Congressional App Challenge, an annual competition meant to inspire, include, and innovate efforts about STEM, coding, and computer science education. Kelly held the awards ceremony at his Butler District Office. In all, 26 students participated in this year's competition. ""I'm so proud to see all of the success from our local students. We have so many talented young people across our district,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""The importance of STEM, coding, and computer science education cannot be understated. The Congressional APP Challenge goes beyond coding and technology -- it's a platform for fostering creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork among our youth. Congratulations to this year's winners, and thank you to everyone who made this wonderful event possible!"" Additionally, Rep. Kelly's office presented a commendation to Ms. Laura Gaston, an educator from Knoch High School, for her outstanding leadership over the past five years during the Congressional App Challenge. You can read more about the competition here. Below are the winners of the 2023 Congressional App Challenge in Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-introduces-legislation-to-help-solve-cold-cases,Reschenthaler Introduces Legislation to Help Solve Cold Cases,2023-12-11,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) introduced the Cold Case Modernization Act, which would expand the criteria for Department of Justice (DOJ) grant funds used to identify unidentified human remains through forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) testing. FGG is used by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to help reconnect missing and unidentified persons with their families. “Across the United States, investigators lack the critical resources to solve the cases of tens of thousands of unidentified human remains,” Reschenthaler said. “The Cold Case Modernization Act puts these deceased Americans and their grieving families first, using state-of-the-art DNA technology to uncover answers and find the truth.” Currently, under DOJ interim policy for “Forensic Genetic Genealogical DNA Analysis and Searching,” DOJ funds are allowed to be used for deceased persons who are declared homicide victims. This bill would expand the funding criteria to cover deceased persons for which a manner of death is not determined or for which manner of death is ruled to be a non-homicide. There is not always enough evidence at a crime scene to establish a death as a homicide, and it is not uncommon for the manner of death to be revised or updated once a deceased person is identified. For instance, human remains found in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, were recently identified as those of 14-year-old Joan Marie Dymond, who went missing in June 1969. FGG leverages hundreds of thousands of DNA markers, known as single nucleotide polymorphisms, to establish long-range relationships with distant genetic relatives. This enables unidentified human remains to be identified, even if traditional forensic DNA testing is unable to establish an identification. Read the full bill here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kelly-deluzio-send-letter-dept-energy-opposing-rule-which-jeopardizes,"Reps. Kelly, Deluzio send letter to Dept. of Energy opposing rule which jeopardizes nation's electrical grid, national security",2023-12-08,2023,2023-12,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. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) sent this letter to U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm opposing the Biden Administration's proposed rule to mandate the use of amorphous metal (AM) cores instead of Grain-Oriented Electrical Steel (GOES) cores. GOES cores are used in electrical distribution transformers across the country. Currently, there is only one facility in the United States producing GOES, located in Butler, Pennsylvania, which is represented by more than 1,300 United Auto Workers (UAW) employees. Implementation of this proposed rule would jeopardize the Butler, Pennsylvania facility and leave the U.S. electrical grid reliant on imports and potentially cost over 1,500 American jobs. Moreover, amorphous metal cores rely on imports of raw materials; a dependency that could leave Americans susceptible to a variety of disruptions, from production to shipping. The Department of Commerce has identified this as a threat to national security. ""Finalizing this rule would significantly impact the production of distribution transformers, which are already difficult to obtain,"" the Congressmen wrote in their letter. ""Grid security and reliability are vital to our economic and national security. We respectfully urge you to make serious modifications that preserve utilization of GOES for transformer cores to the proposed rule and thank you for your consideration."" The administration's proposed rule comes when the supply chain constraint for distribution transformers has grown significantly, with demand exceeding current rates of production. The current lead time for procuring a distribution transformer is more than 16 months. ""This rule would severely limit the ability of our utility providers to ensure grid reliability and security while making us dependent on foreign imports of amorphous metal,"" the Members continued. The Proposed Rule increases efficiency standards on distribution transformers, which are already no less than 97.7% energy efficient.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-carbajal-introduce-the-market-choice-act,"Fitzpatrick, Carbajal Introduce the MARKET CHOICE Act",2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) re-introduced the bipartisan MARKET CHOICE Act. By eliminating the gas tax in exchange for implementing a tax on greenhouse gas emissions, this initiative would diminish the detrimental impacts of such emissions while making critical investments in American infrastructure. The bill also establishes a bipartisan National Climate Commission to set goals and review the effectiveness of the federal government’s existing policies and programs for emissions reduction. “As COP28 meets this month and as the United States moves into the third year of the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, two of our nation’s greatest problems continue to persist without any long-term solution,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Our bipartisan MARKET CHOICE Act lays out a bold, comprehensive framework for how the United States can improve affordability for American families, create innovative new job opportunities, further reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and substantively invest in our physical infrastructure for generations to come. I am grateful to Rep. Carbajal and all our partners for their leadership on this equally bold and practical approach to the climate and infrastructure challenges ahead.” “Climate change demands our immediate attention and the Market Choice Act is a crucial way to move the ball forward while revitalizing our infrastructure and promoting prosperity across our nation,” said Congressman Carbajal. “Not only will this bill tackle carbon pollution, it will also create economic opportunities for communities like mine on the Central Coast and support thousand of good-paying jobs to make sure our clean energy transition is one that grows our middle class as well. This bill is a smart solution to on our generation’s greatest challenges, and I’m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in reintroducing it.” “The bipartisan MARKET CHOICE Act championed by Congressmen Fitzpatrick and Carbajal prioritizes the infrastructure, energy, and economic needs of the American people,” said former Congressman Carlos Curbelo. “This legislation will open a multitude of new doors for American workers and provide new opportunities for communities across the nation to strengthen their infrastructure. It is a bold, innovative, and fiscally disciplined solution to the environmental challenges we face today.” ""I applaud Congressman Fitzpatrick for his continued leadership of the MARKET CHOICE Act. It is time for Congress to stop approaching climate issues with makeshift policies like subsidies and further enlarging the regulatory morass,” said Ambassador & former Congressman Francis Rooney. “The existing balkanized system favors special interests with distorted markets and protectionist policies that stifle innovation and consumer choice. A border-adjusted carbon tax, like Congressman Fitzpatrick's bill, is the type of market-based approach to climate policy that can achieve our decarbonization goals and maintain our economic edge."" What They're Saying: ""We applaud Representatives Fitzpatrick and Carbajal for their continued commitment to advancing solutions to the climate crisis,"" said Jesse Walls, Senior Director of Government Affairs for the National Audubon Society. ""The reintroduction of the Market Choice Act will not only reduce carbon emissions, but generate revenue to upgrade and improve our nation’s infrastructure, creating healthier and more sustainable communities where people and birds can thrive. Thoughtful policy to tackle climate change is urgently needed and we welcome Reps. Fitzpatrick and Carbajal’s continued leadership."" ""We commend Representatives Fitzpatrick and Carbajal for their continued leadership to address climate change through the reintroduction of the MARKET CHOICE Act,” said Kasey White, Director of Climate Policy, Niskanen Center. “As world leaders gather at COP28, it is critical that the United States remain at the forefront of measures to limit the magnitude and impact of climate change. The MARKET CHOICE Act is a bold, bipartisan, and fiscally-responsible policy that not only ensures American leadership in decarbonization but also allows domestic producers to compete effectively in the global marketplace."" ""It’s time for the U.S. to seriously consider a carbon tax. It’s the only policy that addresses two of our country’s most pressing problems: climate change and fiscal instability,” said Alex Flint, Executive Director, Alliance for Market Solutions. “We commend Congressman Fitzpatrick for always beating this drum."" “The reintroduction of the Market Choice Act shows that there is bipartisan support in Congress for putting a price on carbon,” said Nat Keohane, President of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES). “The increasing impacts of extreme weather events remind us that more action is needed to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. We know that market prices shape economic decisions, and carbon is no different. A price on carbon would spur investment into clean energy and climate action, encourage the development and deployment of clean energy technologies, and position the U.S. to win the global clean energy race while also helping to cut emissions in line with the nation’s targets. A carbon price would also help make every other climate policy more effective, by aligning the whole of the economy with the low-carbon transition. We look forward to working with Congress, companies, and other stakeholders to move this vital conversation forward.” ""Citizens’ Climate Lobby welcomes the reintroduction of the MARKET CHOICE Act. A steadily rising fee on carbon pollution continues to be one of the most effective policies available to reduce carbon emissions,” said Ben Pendergrass, Vice President of Government Affairs, Citizens’ Climate Lobby. “The MARKET CHOICE Act utilizes this critical tool to build a cleaner, healthier America. We’re encouraged to see that the starting price and rate of increase specified in the bill continue to be more ambitious than in original iterations of the legislation — that is an appropriate response to the increasing climate impacts Americans face. We are grateful for Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Salud Carbajal's continued leadership on this issue and commitment to bipartisan action on climate.” “A nationwide carbon price is the most cost-effective policy option to significantly lower emissions and encourage clean energy investments across the economy,” said Greg Bertelsen, CEO, Climate Leadership Council. “By enacting a predictable price on carbon, we can harness the power of market forces to lower emissions and stimulate innovation in all sectors. The Climate Leadership Council supports efforts like the MARKET CHOICE Act that would benefit the environment and strengthen the U.S. economy.” “The Market Choice Act is a conservative market-based approach that cuts carbon pollution responsible for climate-fueled weather extremes and advances fairness in our energy system. For far too long, energy markets in the United States have privatized the profits and placed the detrimental health and environmental costs of carbon pollution at the foot of American families,” said The Rev. Dr. Jessica Moerman, President and CEO of the Evangelical Environmental Network. “Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick has recognized this problem and has proposed an effective solution. The Market Choice Act corrects this major market failure all while defending our children’s health and future from carbon pollution. As evangelicals called to defend life from all harms, we are grateful for Congressman Fitzpatrick’s leadership on the Market Choice Act.” ""Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick has been a strong climate ally for many years, consistently supporting policies to reduce harmful pollution and promote healthier communities and a livable planet Environmental Defense Fund thanks him for his willingness to put solutions on the table and work toward a cleaner and safer future for everyone. A carbon tax must be accompanied by a broader suite of policies that complement EPA’s existing regulatory authority and facilitate a rapid and just transition from fossil fuels while not adding an even greater burden to communities already exposed to the highest levels of pollution and gravest threats of climate change. We look forward to working with Rep. Fitzpatrick and his colleagues to build bipartisan support for bold, concrete, and equitable climate solutions."" “The United States is closer to reaching its 2030 emissions reductions targets, thanks in part to several major policy wins over the last few years,” said Laura Brannen, Senior Policy Advisor and Federal Climate Policy Lead, The Nature Conservancy. “But we need to do more to firmly put the U.S. on a path to reaching net-zero by mid-century. The investments driven and enabled by the MARKET Choice Act would reach across the economy and well beyond 2030. Representatives Fitzpatrick and Carbajal are helping to lead the way with this forward-thinking and bipartisan legislation.” “With 2023 almost certain to be the hottest year on record, and report after report telling us that we are not on target to meet our global emission reductions goals necessary to prevent the worst impacts of unmitigated climate change, WRI is pleased to see Representative Fitzpatrick’s introduction of the bipartisan Market Choice Act to address climate change. While Congress has recently enacted significant measures to curb climate change, the science is clear: we must take additional action and have no time to waste. We are particularly pleased to see a serious bipartisan proposal to use market forces to help address climate change. We hope that additional members of both parties will support smart climate policies like the Market Choice Act, and we commend Mr. Fitzpatrick and Mr. Carbajal for their leadership,” said Dr. Daniel Lashof, U.S. Director, World Resources Institute. “WRI looks forward to working with any and all in Congress who are ready to champion serious climate policies.” “We applaud Congressman Fitzpatrick for his continued commitment to advancing smart and effective climate solutions. A price on carbon is the most powerful and fiscally-responsible tool we have to unleash the innovative power of the U.S. economy, promote clean energy and create jobs, and hold foreign polluters accountable,” said George Behrakis, President, Young Conservatives for Carbon Dividends. “With this legislation, Congressman Fitzpatrick demonstrates that good climate policy can be firmly in line with conservative values.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-bill-lower-prescription-drug-prices-seniors-passes-energy-and,Dr. Joyce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for Seniors Passes Energy and Commerce Committee,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, the Expanding Seniors' Access to Lower Cost Medicines Act, introduced by Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), passed out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and will now go to the floor of the House for a vote. H.R.5372, the Expanding Seniors' Access to Lower Cost Medicines Act of 2023, would expand access to new biosimilar medications for seniors using Medicare Part D plans by allowing midyear formulary adjustments to account for the approval of new lower cost medications. “Making sure that seniors are able to afford their medications must continue to be one of our top priorities as we work to support patients,” said Congressman Joyce. “This legislation would make Medicare more efficient, and lower cost medications more accessible for the patients who are most in need. I’m grateful to Chair Rodgers, Representative Peters, and all of the members of the Energy and Commerce Committee for their unanimous support of this legislation.” While Medicare Part D plans often cover an extensive range of medications, often new medications are approved for use between formulary adjustments. By allowing biosimilars inclusion through midyear formulary adjustments, this bill would drive down costs for seniors and help ensure Americans have access to the life-saving medications that they rely on each day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyces-5g-sale-act-advances-house-floor,Dr. Joyce’s 5G SALE Act Advances to House Floor,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,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 his legislation, H.R.5677, the 5G SALE Act, was passed unanimously by the Energy and Commerce Committee and will next be considered by the entire U.S. House of Representatives. The 5G Spectrum Authority Licensing Enforcement (5G SALE) Act would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to release previously auctioned bands of the electromagnetic spectrum to expand access to 5G broadband to rural communities. “Bridging the digital divide has never been more critical for rural communities,” said Congressman Joyce. “The 5G SALE Act would cut the red tape that has kept Pennsylvania families from accessing the high-speed internet that is vital for remote workers, students who use the internet to learn from home, and patients who use telehealth to heal from home. I’m proud to see this 5G Sale Act pass unanimously out of the committee, and I look forward to seeing its passage in the House.” Background: The FCC sold approximately 8,000 licenses to grant internet providers access to America’s broadband spectrum. These licenses are the only way companies can legally use the radio waves that bring 5G internet to customers. During the period between when providers paid for these licenses and when the FCC should have parceled the licenses out, there was a lapse in the FCC’s ability to authorize the use of these radio waves. Now, despite internet providers having fully purchased the frequencies necessary to deliver 5G internet, the FCC has stated they are unable to issue these licenses. Congressman Joyce’s legislation would grant the FCC a one-time, temporary authority to issue licenses purchased in auctions in order to speed the delivery of 5G technology to rural communities. On Friday, September 22, 2023, the Senate unanimously passed the Senate version of the 5G SALE Act, which was introduced by Senator John Kennedy (R-LA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-leads-call-for-termination-of-penn-president-liz-magill,Reschenthaler Leads Call for Termination of Penn President Liz Magill,2023-12-07,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), alongside Congressmen John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Lloyd Smucker (R-PA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Dan Meuser (R-PA), have called on the Chair of the University of Pennsylvania Board of Trustees to relieve Liz Magill of her duties as President of the University of Pennsylvania following her shocking testimony on Tuesday before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce regarding rampant antisemitism on college campuses. During the hearing, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) directed the following question to President Magill: “Does calling for the genocide of Jews violate Penn's rules or code of conduct?” In her response, President Magill refused to say whether calling for the genocide of all Jewish people is bullying and harassment according to the university’s code of conduct, even smirking as she answered. In the letter, the members wrote: “President Magill’s actions in front of Congress were an embarrassment to the university, its student body, and its vast network of proud alumni. She has shown the university and the entire world that she is either incapable or unwilling to combat antisemitism on the university’s campus and take care of its student body. As such, I respectfully call on you to relieve President Magill of her duties as president to protect the lives of Jewish American students at the University of Pennsylvania.” On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale terrorist attack by land, sea, and air against Israel. Families were burned alive, infants were decapitated, women were sexually assaulted, and other unthinkable acts of violence were committed. This brutal attack killed over 1,200 Israelis and more than 30 Americans and injured thousands of innocent civilians. This was the largest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-colleagues-introduce-fairness-for-9-11-families-technical-fix-act,"Fitzpatrick, Colleagues Introduce Fairness for 9/11 Families Technical Fix Act",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC -- Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and twelve of his colleagues introduced the Fairness for 9/11 Families Technical Fix Act, a bipartisan bill that will amend current law to mandate rules for payments to Havlish Settling Judgement Creditors to ensure that these victims are awarded the funds they deserve. ""While no amount of money will ever fill the void of losing a loved one, all of the families of the victims of September 11th deserve to fully participate and receive their due benefits from the Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism (VSST) Fund,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “By correcting an oversight made in the ‘Fairness Act’ that was passed in haste last year, our bipartisan Fairness for 9/11 Families Technical Fix Act would provide legal equity to those 9/11 families left behind, the Havlish plaintiffs. Providing them with the same kind of exemptions given to other victims of state-sponsored terrorism will ensure that they receive the financial relief that all victims of state sponsored terrorism deserve.” “Far too many of those families who lost their loved ones on September 11th remain left behind by legislative oversights made in the eleventh hour,” said Ellen Saracini, widow of Captain Victor J. Saracini, United Flight 175. “The Fairness for 9/11 Families Technical Fix Act will allow those families to access the Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism (VSST) Fund payments already conditionally allocated to them. I encourage all Members of Congress to join Representative Fitzpatrick in this bipartisan and commonsense effort to ensure that the Havlish plaintiffs are provided relief and permitted to fully partake in the VSST Fund.” “The Fairness for 9/11 Families Act is a testament to how Congress can come together from both sides of the aisle to never forget those we lost on 9/11 and to provide much needed support to those who continue to live with immense pain and grief,” said Congressman Gottheimer. “This is a critical step to ensure that those who suffered unimaginable loss receive the resources they deserve, but it also reminds us that Congress still has more work to do to ensure that every 9/11 family receives the support they rightfully deserve.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-bill-lower-prescription-drug-prices-seniors-passes-energy-and-0,Dr. Joyce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Prices for Seniors Passes Energy and Commerce Committee,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,John Joyce,J000302,johnjoyce.house.gov,johnjoyce,https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, the Expanding Seniors' Access to Lower Cost Medicines Act, introduced by Congressman John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13), passed out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and will now go to the floor of the House for a vote. H.R.5372, the Expanding Seniors' Access to Lower Cost Medicines Act of 2023, would create greater access to new biosimilar medications for seniors using Medicare Part D plans by allowing midyear formulary adjustments to account for the approval of new lower cost medications. “Making sure that seniors are able to afford their medications must continue to be one of our top priorities as we work to support patients,” said Congressman Joyce. “This legislation would make Medicare more efficient, and lower cost medications more accessible for the patients who are most in need. I’m grateful to Chair Rodgers, Representative Peters, and all of the members of the Energy and Commerce Committee for their unanimous support of this legislation.” While Medicare Part D plans often cover an extensive range of medications, often new medications are approved for use between formulary adjustments. By allowing biosimilars inclusion through midyear formulary adjustments, this bill would drive down costs for seniors and help ensure Americans have access to the life-saving medications that they rely on each day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-chairs-ways-means-hearing-reviewing-tax-cuts-jobs-act-tax-policies,"Kelly chairs Ways & Means hearing reviewing Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, tax policies",2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,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), Chairman of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Tax, led a hearing titled ""Tax Policies to Expand Economic Growth and Increase Prosperity for American Families."" The hearing examined pro-growth policies included in the 2017 tax reform law, known as the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (TCJA), and other proposed tax legislation. The hearing also explored tax policy ideas as many provisions of TCJA are set to expire in 2025. During the hearing, Rep. Kelly highlighted the local impact of TCJA's success -- the bipartisan Opportunity Zone legislation that spurred over $100 million in economic development in downtown Erie, Pennsylvania, what was once home to the poorest ZIP code in the United States. Witnesses during Wednesday's hearing included: Alan Auerbach Professor of Economics and Law, University of California Berkley Alan Viard Senior Fellow Emeritus, American Enterprise Institute Grover Norquist President, Americans for Tax Reform Steve Hayes Chairman and President, Americans for Fair Taxation Leonard Burman Institute Fellow, Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center KEY EXCERPTS FROM REP. KELLY'S OPENING STATEMENT (as prepared for delivery) ""In the two years after TCJA – real median household income increased by $5,000 – which exceeded income growth during the prior 8 years combined. To protect Main Street -- The Small Business Deduction in TCJA created over $66 billion in tax savings for Main Street businesses. These policies created a strong foundation for U.S. economic growth and prosperity in our small businesses."" ""To protect working families -- Wages in this country increased by 4.9% for 2018 and 2019 – the fastest two-year growth for real wages in 20 years. According to the Federal Reserve, low- and middle-income families received the largest increase in wealth during 2018 and 2019. More than 6 million were lifted out of poverty."" ""Opportunity Zones created growth. And Opportunity Zone investment is going to communities that are substantially more economically distressed than the rest of the country. This is why I continue to lead legislation -- such as -- Opportunity Zones Transparency, Extension, and Improvement Act -- to boost economic investment in these distressed communities."" ""The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act helped American families, small businesses, and resulted in a booming economy. As a committee and conference, we are committed to economic growth, opportunity and fiscal responsibility. And looking ahead to 2025, when some TCJA provisions set to expire, we need to ensure our tax code in this country encourages investment, job growth, and economic security for American working families."" DOWNLOAD VIDEO OF REP. KELLY'S OPENING STATEMENT HERE WATCH THE FULL HEARING HERE WITNESS TESTIMONY EXCERPTS (as prepared for delivery) ""Congress should avoid the creation of new taxes, even if the stated goal is replacing existing taxes,"" said Grover Norquist, President, Americans for Tax Reform. ""The priority of Congress regarding tax policy must be ensuring the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is made permanent."" ""The United States faces a large long-term fiscal imbalance that will burden future generations and that threatens long-term economic growth. A value-added tax (VAT) is an essential component of a well-designed response to this challenge,"" said Alan Viard, Senior Fellow Emeritus at the American Enterprise Institute. ""The United States should follow the lead of 170 other countries and territories by adding a VAT to the federal tax system. The VAT is economically similar, but administratively preferable, to a retail sales tax.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-staff-office-hours-take-place-wednesday-emporium,Congressional staff office hours to take place Wednesday in Emporium,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"EMPORIUM, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Wednesday, December 13, in Emporium. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. State Senator Chris Dush's staff will also be available to assist with state legislative issues. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Cameron County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. DATE: Wednesday, December 13 LOCATION: Cameron County Chamber of Commerce and Artisan Center 34 East 4th Street, Emporium, PA 15834 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-staff-office-hours-take-place-wednesday-kittanning,Congressional staff office hours to take place Wednesday in Kittanning,2023-12-06,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"KITTANNING, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Wednesday, December 13 in Kittanning. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. These office hours will regularly occur on the second Wednesday of every month. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Armstrong County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. DATE: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 LOCATION: Pennsylvania State Rep. Donna Oberlander's Kittanning Office 200 North Jefferson Street, Kittanning, PA 16201 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyces-5g-sale-act-advances-house-floor-0,Dr. Joyce’s 5G SALE Act Advances to House Floor,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,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 his legislation, H.R.5677, the 5G SALE Act, was passed unanimously by the Energy and Commerce Committee and will next be considered by the entire U.S. House of Representatives. The 5G Spectrum Authority Licensing Enforcement (5G SALE) Act would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to release previously auctioned bands of the electromagnetic spectrum to expand access to 5G broadband to rural communities. “Bridging the digital divide has never been more critical for rural communities,” said Congressman Joyce. “The 5G SALE Act would cut the red tape that has kept Pennsylvania families from accessing the high-speed internet that is vital for remote workers, students who use the internet to learn from home, and patients who use telehealth to heal from home. I’m proud to see this 5G Sale Act pass unanimously out of the committee, and I look forward to seeing its passage in the House.” Background: The FCC sold approximately 8,000 licenses to grant internet providers access to America’s broadband spectrum. These licenses are the only way companies can legally use the radio waves that bring 5G internet to customers. During the period between when providers paid for these licenses and when the FCC should have parceled the licenses out, there was a lapse in the FCC’s ability to authorize the use of these radio waves. Now, despite internet providers having fully purchased the frequencies necessary to deliver 5G internet, the FCC has stated they are unable to issue these licenses. Congressman Joyce’s legislation would grant the FCC a one-time, temporary authority to issue licenses purchased in auctions in order to speed the delivery of 5G technology to rural communities. On Friday, September 22, 2023, the Senate unanimously passed the Senate version of the 5G SALE Act, which was introduced by Senator John Kennedy (R-LA).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-statement-cancer-diagnosis,Thompson Statement On Cancer Diagnosis,2023-12-05,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGON, D.C. –U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson today released the following statement: “After a routine physical and subsequent tests, I was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. While this diagnosis is a surprise, I feel well, and I will continue my work representing the people of Pennsylvania’s 15th District. “Anyone who’s worked with me knows I am a person of faith as well as an eternal optimist, both of which will guide me as I undergo treatment. I am grateful to my medical team, my family, everyone I work with and represent in Congress. “My faith in God is strong and I will tackle this head on. I appreciate both prayers and privacy during this time.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-aims-designate-washingtons-trail-national-historic-trail,Kelly aims to designate 'Washington's Trail' as national historic trail,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,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) introduced H.R. 6506, a bill that would direct the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study to designate Washington's Trail as a national historic trail. Washington's Trail traces the steps George Washington traveled in 1753 on his way to Fort LeBoeuf in present-day Waterford, Pa., Erie County. The Trail -- which includes portions of Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia -- crosses through Butler, Venango, Mercer, Crawford, and Erie counties. ""By designating Washington's Trail as a national historic trail, we create an opportunity to preserve this history, to build community pride, to connect communities, promote economic revitalization, and create jobs while telling this story of George Washington and the birth of our nation,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""I commend the work of local volunteers who have brought George Washington's journey to life. This legislation builds upon their work for current and future generations to enjoy."" Representatives Glenn Thompson (R-PA), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), Summer Lee (D-PA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Alex Mooney (R-WV) are original co-sponsors of Rep. Kelly's legislation. BACKGROUND On October 30, 1753, Virginia Governor Robert Dinwiddie commissioned then 21-year-old George Washington to deliver a letter to French forces who had assembled some 500 miles away at Fort LeBoeuf (present day Waterford, PA). French forces had been constructing forts, which was a violation of “the treaties now subsisting between the two Crowns” (Britain and France). The letter was to be delivered to the Commanding Officer, instructing them to depart and demanding a letter in return. Washington was also tasked with working with Native tribes to gather information on the growing French forces. The French and Indian war began not long after Washington returned to Williamsburg, VA on January 16, 1754.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-staff-office-hours-take-place-monday-selinsgrove,Congressional staff office hours to take place Monday in Selinsgrove,2023-12-04,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"SELINSGROVE, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today, announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Monday, December 11, in Selinsgrove. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Snyder County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: Noon to 3 p.m. DATE: Monday, December 11, 2023 LOCATION: Pennsylvania State Rep. David Rowe's Selinsgrove Office 1 Susquehanna Valley Mall Dr., Suite F3, Selinsgrove, PA 17870 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-amendment-to-denounce-brutalities-by-hamas-terror-groups-passes,"Fitzpatrick Amendment to Denounce Brutalities by Hamas, Terror Groups Passes",2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Tonight, the House passed H.R. 5961, the No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act, including Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick's (PA-01) amendment to condemn Hamas and Iran-backed terror groups for using human shields and that only the unconditional surrender of Hamas and other Iran-backed terror groups will save innocent civilian lives. Congressman Fitzpatrick's amendment passed with 412-11. From Congressman Fitzpatrick's floor debate on the amendment earlier today: This Congress has a responsibility to unequivocally denounce the cruelty and inhumanity perpetrated by the terrorist organizations funded by Iran, especially Hamas. As we work to prohibit further funds from being used by the ruthless Iranian regime to prop up terrorists and subsidize terror attacks, we must also ensure that we swiftly and clearly condemn the criminal acts already carried out by Iran’s agents of terror. The deliberate use of innocent civilians and humanitarian infrastructure by Hamas and other Iran-backed terrorist groups to shield themselves, their weapons, and their operations is unconscionable. Their unabashed and irredeemable disregard for human life is unjustifiable. This Congress and this government must continue to be united in our condemnation of terror and terrorists. Anything less is a betrayal of our obligation as a global leader for human rights, human dignity, and human freedom. Watch the remarks HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/12/fitzpatrick-statement-on-george-santos-expulsion-vote,Fitzpatrick Statement on George Santos Expulsion Vote,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) issued the following statement after the House voted to expel Congressman George Santos (NY-03): “Today, I voted to expel Rep. Santos from Congress. As stated in the final report from the House Ethics Committee, ‘Rep. Santos sought to fraudulently exploit every aspect of his House candidacy for his own personal financial profit.’ He intentionally misled his constituents, his supporters, and the American public,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “This egregious behavior must never be tolerated, and I am relieved that Rep. Santos is no longer a member of the United States Congress. We must set a high bar, and maintain that high bar, for all those who hold a position of public trust.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-thompson-host-constituent-hours-28,Rep. Thompson to Host Constituent Hours,2023-12-01,2023,2023-12,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Monday, December 4 in Lock Haven. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Clinton County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. DATE: Monday, December 4 LOCATION: Office of State Representative Stephanie Borowitz 18 East Main Street, Suite II Lock Haven, PA While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:14:16Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-s-bipartisan-stop-foreign-funds-in-elections-act-passes-house-committee-on-administration-unanimously,Fitzpatrick's Bipartisan Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act Passes House Committee on Administration Unanimously,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, bipartisan legislation led by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Administration. The Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act will prohibit contributions and donations by foreign nationals in American elections. “I am incredibly grateful to Chairman Steil and the Committee on House Administration for moving this bipartisan bill forward today,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Foreign adversaries have no business influencing American elections on the local, state, or federal level. Our bipartisan legislation will ensure that foreign agents and entities are prohibited from contributing to campaigns for ballot initiatives or referenda in the United States. As this bill further advances to the House Floor, I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this commonsense election security measure."" “Foreign money has no place in America’s elections,” said Congressman Golden. “With passage through the House Administration Committee today, we’re one important step closer to keeping our elections in the hands of Americans and getting this common-sense, bipartisan legislation signed into law.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-announces-december-mobile-office-hours,Reschenthaler Announces December Mobile Office Hours,2023-11-30,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) announced his staff will hold mobile office hours at various locations throughout Pennsylvania’s 14th Congressional District next month to offer increased assistance to constituents experiencing problems with a federal agency. During these mobile office sessions, constituents can receive help with Social Security and Medicare issues, federal grant funding, passports and visas, immigration and naturalization services, veterans’ benefits, and the IRS. December's schedule is outlined below: What: Fayette County Mobile Office Hours Date: Friday, December 1, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Fayette County Courthouse, 61 East Main Street, Uniontown, PA 15401 What: Greene County Mobile Office Hours Date: Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Greene County Office Building, 93 East High Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370 What: Indiana Mobile Office Hours Date: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Indiana County Courthouse Annex, 827 Water Street, Indiana, PA 15701 What: Somerset Mobile Office Hours Date: Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Somerset County Planning Conference Room, 300 North Center Avenue, Suite 540, Somerset, PA 15501 What: Connellsville Mobile Office Hours Date: Tuesday, December 19, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Connellsville Municipal Building, 110 North Arch Street, Connellsville, PA 15425",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-colleagues-lead-bipartisan-resolution-calling-for-immediate-unconditional-surrender-of-hamas-condemning-hamas-use-of-human-shields,"Fitzpatrick, Colleagues Lead Bipartisan Resolution Calling for Immediate, Unconditional Surrender of Hamas, Condemning Hamas’ Use of Human Shields",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) led the introduction of a bipartisan resolution calling for the immediate and unconditional surrender of Hamas and condemning Hamas’ use of human shields in their brutal attacks on innocent Israelis. He was joined by Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Congressman Mike Gallagher (WI-08), Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32), Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05). The resolution is supported by the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies Action. “I am proud to lead, alongside my colleagues Representatives Moskowitz, Gallagher, and Sherman this bipartisan condemnation of Hamas' use of human shields. It is crucial that Congress denounces and demands an end to these horrific acts,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Our resolution demonstrates an unequivocal opposition to Hamas’ blatant contravention of humanitarian law and complete disregard for the rights and dignity of civilian non-combatants."" “Countless innocent lives have been lost as Hamas has sacrificed them to be human shields and shot them if they didn’t stay in place,"" said Congressman Moskowitz. ""Hamas wants as many dead civilians as possible to blame Israel and use for their propaganda. We not only have to remove Hamas for the safety of Israel, but we have to remove Hamas to get them away from the innocent Palestinians whose well-being they couldn’t care less about.” “Hamas continues to use innocent hostages and civilians as human shields as a way to slow Israel’s advance and attempt to build international pressure against Israel’s right to self-defense,"" said Congressman Gallagher. ""Congress should be unified in condemning this reprehensible tactic and work to hold Hamas accountable for this behavior by not only passing this bipartisan resolution, but by also passing the Strengthening Tools to Counter the Use of Human Shields Act to ensure that sanctions are imposed and enforced against Hamas terrorists for this barbaric practice."" “Hamas’ use of human shields is another barbaric act of evil from a terrorist organization that murdered, kidnapped, and tortured Israelis,” said Congressman Bacon. “Hamas has demonstrated their depravity by their willingness to use innocent civilians as human shields - placing military weaponry and headquarters in hospitals, schools, and neighborhoods. I denounce this practice in the strongest possible terms, and urge everyone who cares about human rights to join us in our condemnation of Hamas.” “After Hamas attacked Israel and brutally murdered, raped, burned alive, decapitated, and kidnapped more than 1,200 innocent civilians, including Americans, these terrorists continue to use Palestinian civilians as human shields, a cowardly practice that puts innocent lives at risk. Hamas stores weapons, launches rockets, and houses themselves in schools, hospitals, mosques, and homes,” said Congressman Gottheimer. “Terrorists in Gaza still hold hostage more than 160 babies, children, men, women, and elderly, including Americans. Hamas has waged indiscriminate terror and bears responsibility for thousands of Palestinian civilian deaths in Gaza.” “After Hamas’ brutal October 7 massacre of innocent Israeli men, women, and children, it is vital that the terrorist organization be permanently and verifiably dismantled,"" said FDD Action. ""The United States must support all efforts to deny, degrade, and dismantle Hamas’ terrorist operations and infrastructure. FDD Action endorses this critical resolution, which calls for the immediate and unconditional surrender of Hamas and all other Iran-backed terrorist groups responsible for the October 7 massacre.” Read the text of the resolution HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-kelly-sen-tim-scott-champion-legislation-protect-faith-based-child,"Rep. Mike Kelly, Sen. Tim Scott Champion Legislation to Protect Faith-Based Child Welfare Providers",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,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. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) and U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced the Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act. This legislation protects child welfare providers from being discriminated against for acting in accordance with their deeply held religious beliefs and prohibits federal, state and local government agencies that receive federal adoption assistance funding from discriminating against child welfare service providers based on the providers’ unwillingness to take action contrary to their sincerely held religious beliefs. “Faith-based organizations have always played an extraordinary role in caring for our nation’s most vulnerable children. Millions of Americans are better off today because of their noble work,” Rep. Kelly said. “Since coming into office, President Biden has discriminated against these faith-based providers because of their deeply held religious beliefs. I’m proud to work with Senator Tim Scott on this commonsense legislation to protect faith-based organizations who are simply seeking a level playing field to help those in need.” “Faith-based foster care organizations have provided reliable, effective resources to countless families and children with nowhere else to go,” said Sen. Scott. “Despite their success, President Biden has caved to the far-left, making it harder for these organizations to provide critical services and leaving the kids who need them most out in the cold. I’m fighting back to protect religious freedom and support the incredible work of these invaluable organizations.” The Child Welfare Provider Inclusion Act has been endorsed by the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Heritage Action, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee and the Family Research Council. House co-sponsors include Representatives Michael Cloud (R-Texas), Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pennsylvania), Adrian Smith (R-Nebraska), Lance Gooden (R-Texas), Debbie Lesko (R-Arizona), Lloyd Smucker (R-Pennsylvania), Barry Moore (R-Alabama), Carol Miller (R-West Virginia), and Mary Miller (R-Illinois). Senate co-sponsors include Senators James Risch (R-Idaho), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-manages-rule-debate-on-hr-5283-hr-5961-and-sj-res-32,"Reschenthaler Manages Rule Debate on H.R. 5283, H.R. 5961, and S.J. Res. 32",2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) delivered the following remarks on the House floor when he managed the Rule Debate on H.R. 5283, the Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act, H.R. 5961, the No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act, and S.J. Res. 32, providing for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection (CFPB) relating to Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. As prepared for delivery: “Mr. Speaker, since President Joe Biden took office, there have been 7.8 million illegal immigrant encounters, 1.7 million known gotaways, and hundreds of individuals on the terror watchlist stopped at the southern border. Instead of fixing this issue, the Biden Administration places illegal immigrants in our public schools, airports, police departments, and now, our federal lands. In New York City, the Biden Administration and far-left New York Democrats are housing hundreds of illegal migrants on National Park Service land. H.R. 5283 protects our national parks and federal lands from becoming tent cities. Additionally, the underlying legislation blocks President Biden’s $6 billion ransom gift to the Iranian Regime. As an Iraq War veteran, I have seen firsthand Iran’s death and destruction in the Middle East. They are responsible for the deaths of hundreds, if not thousands, of Americans in the Middle East. Since Hamas’ October 7th terrorist attack against Israel, Iranian-backed proxies have attacked U.S. forces over 70 times in Iraq and Syria. It is unthinkable, on the 22nd Anniversary of 9/11, that the Biden Administration announced $6 billion in sanctions relief for Iran. These billions in sanction relief will undoubtedly lead to more attacks against Americans and innocent Israelis. That is why House Republicans will take action to refreeze this funding to the Ayatollah. Lastly, the underlying legislation we will consider this week addresses the Biden Administration’s CFPB guidance that places burdensome regulations on lenders and small businesses. This new CFPB regulation will result in more compliance costs, create privacy concerns for small businesses, and adds to the bureaucratic regulatory environment that is hindering hardworking Americans. I urge my colleagues to support this rule and reserve the balance of my time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-smucker-fiscal-commission-necessary-address-national-debt,Rep. Smucker: Fiscal Commission is Necessary to Address National Debt,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), a senior member of the House Budget Committee, offered testimony during a hearing examining the need for creating a fiscal commission. Smucker offered comments in favor of creating a commission, based on his experience serving as a member of a successful commission during his time as a State Senator in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. Click here to read Rep. Smucker’s written testimony to Members of the House Budget Committee. Click here to watch Rep. Smucker’s testimony as delivered. Below are Rep. Smucker’s comments, as prepared for delivery: “Thank you for this important hearing and for the opportunity to share with you my thoughts regarding a fiscal commission. I believe our debt and fiscal trajectory pose an existential threat to America’s future, and I think establishing a commission is our best chance of addressing it. I say that based on my experience with a highly successful commission in Pennsylvania, which was perhaps the most successful legislative effort I’ve ever been part of. This was the Basic Education Funding Commission, established in 2014 to address a decades-old problem of how state dollars were divided among 500 school districts. It was a bipartisan, bicameral commission that also included representatives of the governor’s administration. The commission held hearings around the state for over a year, receiving testimony and input from all stakeholder groups, experts and from any member of the general public who wanted to participate. It worked across two sessions and interestingly across two governors’ administrations (one Republican and one Democrat). Recommendations were released unanimously by the committee members in June of 2015 and were enacted into law in 2016. In a relatively short period of time, this commission solved a very difficult and previously unsolvable problem. Some factors that were critical to it’s success. There was broad bipartisan agreement in the legislature on the nature and scope of the problem. For a fiscal commission to work, both parties must believe it is necessary. That goes for leadership as well. If either party or the President opposes the commission, it will not work. The right people were placed on the commission. They were members who had skin in the game, including the chairs and minority chairs of relevant committees. I suggest our fiscal commission should include the Chairs and ranking members of relevant committees, such as the House and Senate Budget, House Ways and Means, and Senate Finance committees, as well as Speaker appointees and members of the Administration. Everything was on the table and all opinions were welcomed. A fiscal commission must be willing to consider all options. Deficits and the debt have increased under the watch of both Republicans and Democrats. We all share responsibility and must consider options that we may not like. ​​​​ Public engagement and education was critical to the commission’s success. Perhaps the most important key to success of the commission is to convince the American people that debt will impact them directly, and that change is necessary. This is done through a very transparent, public process, and by amplifying the work of a debt commission with a corresponding public relations campaign.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-thompson-and-keating-highlight-german-american-partnership,Reps. Thompson and Keating Highlight German American Partnership,2023-11-29,2023,2023-11,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 Bill Keating (D-MA), co-chairs of the bipartisan German American Caucus, today introduced a resolution reaffirming German American friendship and supporting continued cooperation between the United States and Germany. More than 34 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, this resolution reaffirms the importance of the alliance between the United States and Germany and underscores our shared commitment to democracy. It also supports the “Wunderbar Together” initiative, which aims to celebrate German-American art, culture, science, friendship, and more. “I am proud to introduce this resolution highlighting our important alliance with Germany alongside the co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional German American Caucus, Rep. Bill Keating,” Rep. Thompson said. “My home state of Pennsylvania has one of the largest populations of Americans with German heritage. The Caucus and this resolution acknowledge the many ties and connections shared between our two countries, and I look forward to continuing to foster this partnership in the years to come.” “Germany and the United States share a partnership built on our joint commitment to democracy and the strong economic bond between our countries,” Rep. Keating said. “This resolution represents the strength of German American friendship, which is vital to ensuring further transatlantic cooperation to meet our shared challenges and seize emerging opportunities.” “The German American friendship is the most important economic relationship and partnership based on shared values and interests. The Representative of German Industry and Trade (RGIT) supports Representative Thompson's and Representative Keating’s resolution to reaffirm the German American friendship and continue supporting cooperation between the two countries.” - Representative of German Industry and Trade Representative of German Industry and Trade (RGIT) is the liaison office of the Federation of German Industries (BDI) and the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) in Washington, DC. Read the full resolution here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-tours-york-county-trail-towns-projects,Smucker Tours York County Trail Towns Projects,2023-11-28,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Image Lancaster—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) joined leadership of the York County Economic Alliance for a tour of businesses and projects participating in the York County Trail Towns Program. Rep. Smucker was joined by YCEA President Kevin Schreiber, Chief Strategy Officer Silas Chamberlin, Director of Economic Initiatives David Gonzalez, and Brenden Salyards Manager of Economic Initiatives on stops in New Freedom, Glen Rock, and Wrightsville. “I want to thank the YCEA for their efforts to strengthen small businesses and communities like Wrightsville, New Freedom, Glen Rock, and others across Pennsylvania’s 11th District. When small businesses thrive, our communities thrive. The York County Trail Towns program shows an exciting promise to assist area small businesses and I would encourage everyone to come visit the great communities in Pennsylvania’s 11th Congressional District,” said Rep. Lloyd Smucker.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-hamas-use-of-human-shields,Fitzpatrick Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Hamas’ Use of Human Shields,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas’ use of human shields in their brutal attacks on innocent Israelis, and was joined by Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Congressman Mike Gallagher (WI-08), and Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32). “I am proud to lead, alongside my colleagues Representatives Moskowitz, Gallagher, and Sherman this bipartisan condemnation of Hamas' use of human shields. It is crucial that Congress denounces and demands an end to these horrific acts,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Our resolution demonstrates an unequivocal opposition to Hamas’ blatant contravention of humanitarian law and complete disregard for the rights and dignity of civilian non-combatants."" Read the text of the resolution HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-thompson-host-constituent-hours-26,Rep. Thompson to Host Constituent Hours,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"SELINSGROVE, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today, announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Wednesday, November 29 in Selinsgrove. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Snyder County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. DATE: Wednesday, November 29, 2023 LOCATION: Pennsylvania State Rep. David Rowe's Selinsgrove Office 1 Susquehanna Valley Mall Dr., Suite F3, Selinsgrove, PA 17870 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-thompson-host-constituent-hours-27,Rep. Thompson to Host Constituent Hours,2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"St. Marys, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Tuesday, November 28 in St. Marys. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing this meeting for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Elk County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. DATE: Tuesday, November 28, 2023 LOCATION: State Rep. Mike Armanini's Office 53 South St. Marys Street Suite 2 St. Marys, PA 15857 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-casey-fetterman-reschenthaler-advocate-allegheny-river-valleys,"Thompson, Casey, Fetterman, Reschenthaler Advocate for Allegheny River Valley’s Maritime Economy",2023-11-21,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), House Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), and members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) outlining concerns for commercial and recreational access to the Allegheny River – specifically the lock and dam system. Currently, Lock 5 on the Allegheny River (Armstrong County) operates at levels of service (LOS) 3, which allows for only one daily shift, and Locks 6 through 9 (Armstrong County) all operate at LOS 6 by appointment only, the lowest level of service. Volunteers in some of these communities in Armstrong County have stepped up to ensure proper staffing at lockages for recreational users, but this is not a long-term solution. Under the USACE service level metrics, these lockages face future cuts to operational hours and may force many commercial operators to choose alternative means of transport, further decreasing the number of lockages and, subsequently, the LOS. In the letter, the lawmakers wrote: “Any cuts in service [to lockages] will impact commercial and recreational boaters' ability to move up and down the Allegheny River and prevent future economic development throughout the corridor. While many of us are seeking a solution to the lockage hour issue through the Water Resources Development Act process, we respectfully request that USACE ensure the service levels remain unchanged in the short term. Pausing any action that would reduce access and stymie growth will help our region maintain a robust and diverse economy centered on our river system.” “The future success of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s economy is intrinsically tied to our river system,” said Mary Ann Bucci, Executive Director of the Port of Pittsburgh. “Allowing any cuts in services to the lockages would be detrimental to the business community and would directly impact the livelihood of many residents. Our region is incredibly grateful for Congressman Reschenthaler and Senator Casey’s efforts to fix this issue.” The Allegheny River is over 315 miles long and includes a watershed area of 11,747 square miles. In August, the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers were designated as a new Marine Highway Route by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. The M-79 route is critical to our nation’s domestic manufacturing, supporting barge traffic of raw materials, including steel, aggregates, and metallurgical coal. Additional signers of the letter include U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Summer Lee (D-PA). Read the full letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-attends-bipartisan-tour-roundtable-at-marjory-stoneman-douglas-high-school-shooting-site,"Fitzpatrick Attends Bipartisan Tour, Roundtable at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting Site",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC -- Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) joined a bipartisan group of members for a tour of the 1200 Building at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, along with the families of the victims. Members of Congress, local leaders, and family members also held a roundtable afterwards to discuss school safety legislation. ""The tragic events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School five years ago claimed the lives of 17 sons and daughters. Remembering those students and that day is essential to ensure that our leaders, communities, and nation do everything possible to ensure that it never happens again,""said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""I am grateful for and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the families of the victims who advocate tirelessly for school safety and security measures. Alongside the bipartisan Congressional School Safety and Security Caucus, I will continue to work across the aisle with any and all of my colleagues to pursue common-sense legislation that will protect our students, educators, and school communities."" “Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School is a time capsule that is stuck in 2018 – inside the school there’s still blood, bullet holes, and backpacks students left behind as they ran for their lives,""said Congressman Moskowitz. ""It is my hope that these tours will shock the conscience and really demonstrate to my colleagues how much work we still must do to protect our kids and our schools.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-casey-fetterman-thompson-advocate-for-allegheny-river-valleys-maritime-economy,"Reschenthaler, Casey, Fetterman, Thompson Advocate for Allegheny River Valley’s Maritime Economy",2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), and members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation sent a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) outlining concerns for commercial and recreational access to the Allegheny River – specifically the lock and dam system. Currently, Locks 2 and 3 on the Allegheny River operate at levels of service (LOS) 2, which allows for two 10-hour daily shifts. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2022, these locks conducted 803 and 799 commercial lockages. Under the USACE service level metrics, these lockages face future cuts to operational hours and may force many commercial operators to choose alternative means of transport, further decreasing the number of lockages and, subsequently, the LOS. In the letter, the lawmakers wrote: “Any cuts in service [to lockages] will impact commercial and recreational boaters' ability to move up and down the Allegheny River and prevent future economic development throughout the corridor. While many of us are seeking a solution to the lockage hour issue through the Water Resources Development Act process, we respectfully request that USACE ensure the service levels remain unchanged in the short term. Pausing any action that would reduce access and stymie growth will help our region maintain a robust and diverse economy centered on our river system.” “The future success of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s economy is intrinsically tied to our river system,” said Mary Ann Bucci, Executive Director of the Port of Pittsburgh. “Allowing any cuts in services to the lockages would be detrimental to the business community and would directly impact the livelihood of many residents. Our region is incredibly grateful for Congressman Reschenthaler and Senator Casey’s efforts to fix this issue.” The Allegheny River is over 315 miles long and includes a watershed area of 11,747 square miles. In August, the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers were designated as a new Marine Highway Route by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. The M-79 route is critical to our nation’s domestic manufacturing, supporting barge traffic of raw materials, including steel, aggregates, and metallurgical coal. Reschenthaler has led multiple previous efforts in Congress addressing the greater Pittsburgh region’s lock and dam systems. This year, he secured $41 million for the Monongahela River Project in the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 4394). Additional signers of the letter include U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), John Joyce, M.D. (R-PA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Summer Lee (D-PA). Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-introduces-legislation-block-costly-biden-administration-regulation,Smucker Introduces Legislation to Block Costly Biden Administration Regulation,2023-11-20,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) introduced legislation to block implementation of a Biden administration regulation which would directly lead to higher taxes on Americans. In the form of new Davis-Bacon Act regulation, the Biden Administration wants to require prevailing wages for federal or federally funded construction projects, which will cause a dramatic increase in costs. Despite claims of needed “modernizing,” the Biden administration’s rule reverts to a definition of “prevailing wage” that has not been used in forty years. “American families continue to struggle with higher costs caused by the Biden administration’s failed policies. If this regulation is allowed to be implemented, taxpayers can expect to be on the hook for artificially inflated federal construction costs. This misguided regulation is yet another giveaway to Democrat political allies at the expense of the American taxpayers. With deficits totaling nearly $2 trillion last fiscal year and with a mounting national debt, every effort must be taken to drive down costs, not unilaterally raise them. The free market should determine wages, not a nearly century-old formula. This regulation is wrong for American taxpayers and must be stopped,” said Rep. Smucker. “The Wage and Hour Division’s Davis-Bacon rule is a complete giveaway to union bosses. This rule dims America’s infrastructure outlook by increasing costs for federal construction projects and imposing a massive financial burden on taxpayers. I commend Rep. Smucker for leading a CRA resolution to block this harmful rule and the Biden administration’s bureaucratic overreach.” Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) Cosponsors of Rep. Smucker’s legislation are Education & Workforce Committee Chairwoman Rep. Virginia Foxx (NC-5), Reps. Mary Miller (IL-15), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Jeff Duncan (SC-3), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Debbie Lesko (AZ-8), Mark Green (TN-7), Burgess Owens (UT-4), Steve Womack (AR-3), Randy Weber (TX-14), Jim Banks (IN-3), Julia Letlow (LA-5), John Moolenaar (MI-2), Nancy Mace (SC-1), Jim Baird (IN-4), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-5), Tracey Mann (KS-1), Ashley Hinson (IA-2), Keith Self (TX-3), John Rose (TN-6) and Erin Houchin (IN-9). Smucker’s legislation is supported by a number of organizations, including Americans for Tax Reform, Americans for Prosperity, Heritage Action, Taxpayers Protection Alliance, AMAC Action, American Commitment, National Right to Work Committee, the Freedom Foundation, James Madison Institute, Institute for the American Worker, American Concrete Pumping Association, American Fire Sprinkler Association, American Pipeline Contractors Association, Associated Builders and Contractors, Construction Industry Round Table, Construction Leadership Council, Independent Electrical Contractors, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), National Society of Professional Surveyors, National Precast Concrete Association, Power and Communication Contractors Association, Precast/Prestressed Concrete Association, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council and the U.S. Geospatial Executives Organization “Americans for Prosperity is proud to support Rep. Smucker’s effort to stop the Biden Administration from making the unnecessary and antiquated Davis-Bacon Act even costlier for taxpayers. American families are reeling from the inflation brought on by President Biden’s reckless spending and regulation, and yet he remains committed to enriching his political allies in organized labor at taxpayers’ expense with even more of the same. Thankfully, Rep. Smucker is attempting to stand in the way on behalf of those beleaguered taxpayers. We applaud his effort and urge Congress to pass this CRA immediately.” - Akash Chougule, Vice President, Americans for Prosperity. “ABC and a broad coalition of construction industry groups support this effort because the U.S. Department of Labor’s final rule circumvents congressional authority and the Davis-Bacon Act’s original intent while needlessly increasing costs, suppressing competition from small businesses and illegally ensuring that union wages are adopted more frequently by the government on federal and federally assisted construction projects funded by taxpayers. In addition, the DOL final rule missed an opportunity to provide needed regulatory clarity for contractors and fix the DOL’s voluntary, unscientific and inefficient wage survey and wage determination process that has so often led to criticism by the government’s own watchdogs and pro-taxpayer groups alike.” – Ben Brubeck, Vice President of Regulatory, Labor and State Affairs, Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC) Background: The Department of Labor Hour and Wage Division states: “The Davis-Bacon and Related Acts apply to contractors and subcontractors performing on federally funded or assisted contracts in excess of $2,000 for the construction, alteration, or repair (including painting and decorating) of public buildings or public works.” According to the Heritage Foundation, the Davis-Bacon Act “drives up federal construction costs by about 10%, costing taxpayers an estimated $10.9 billion per year.” A December 2022 release from the Congressional Budget Office reports that eliminating the requirements under the Davis-Bacon Act would save approximately $24 billion over a ten-year period. Construction industry associations are supportive of Rep. Smucker’s legislation, writing in a letter: “In short, the new rule increases regulatory burdens on small businesses, new industries and additional public works projects and rescinds modest pro-taxpayer reforms that have been in place for nearly 40 years.” What They are Saying about Rep. Smucker’s Legislation: “Many people assume that government contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder, but that’s not always the case. So-called prevailing wage requirements enshrined in federal law force taxpayers to pay artificially inflated labor costs for federal transportation, infrastructure and other construction projects. A new regulation from the Biden administration will make matters worse by increasing red tape and allowing union contracts to be more central to government prevailing wage calculations. Unless Congress intervenes, the regulation will both further increase the cost of federal projects and drive federal contracts towards the relatively small percentage of unionized contractors by limiting the cost advantage of their non-union but equally qualified competitors. The Freedom Foundation commends Rep. Smucker for standing up for American taxpayers and small businesses and fighting back against Biden’s political giveaway to Big Labor.”- Aaron Withe, CEO of the Freedom Foundation “The Biden DOL’s new Davis Bacon rules present federal contractors with a choice: attempt to remain independent and comply with hundreds of pages of new regulations that are now more complex and carry heightened penalties, or partner with the union bosses around whom the rules were designed. Workers who don’t want to be unionized are now even less likely to benefit from federal infrastructure spending and their tax dollars will go towards paying increased construction costs. These new rules, and ultimately the entire Davis Bacon regime, should be repealed.” - Mark Mix, President of the National Right to Work Committee ""Kudos to Rep. Smucker for leading the fight to reverse the Biden DOL rule that would gut President Reagan's historic Davis-Bacon reforms and enrich union bosses at the expense of taxpayers,"" said American Commitment President Phil Kerpen.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-statement-condemning-acts-antisemitism,Rep. Kelly statement condemning acts of antisemitism,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,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) released the following statement in the wake of the heinous display of antisemitism outside the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, D.C. late Wednesday evening. “Last night, a group of pro-Hamas protesters violently attacked the Democratic National Committee headquarters near the U.S. Capitol. We must condemn these violent protests in the strongest terms possible. I want to personally thank U.S. Capitol Police for their work to quickly evacuate and protect Members of Congress, staff, and civilians in the area,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""We must also be clear: The barbaric October 7 terrorist attacks by Hamas was the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Despite the ceasefire these protesters are calling for, Israel has every right to defend itself and its citizens during this war. We must stand with Israel.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-comments-rise-antisemitism-education,Smucker Comments on Rise of Antisemitism in Education,2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) is speaking out against the rise in antisemitic acts witnessed across America at colleges and universities, as well as in middle and high schools. Smucker reiterated his support for Israel and its right to defend itself from the barbaric terrorist actions of Hamas, and asked witnesses about antisemitism during recent committee hearings. The Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee of the Education & the Workforce Committee, held a hearing on Tuesday entitled “CONFRONTING THE SCOURGE OF ANTISEMITISM ON CAMPUS.” Click here to watch Rep. Smucker’s comments and questions from the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee hearing. Rep. Smucker said “It is shocking to see what’s happening in our society, what’s happening on our campuses. There’s something wrong with the moral fabric of our society when you have antisemitism rising in the way we are seeing today.” Smucker asked Rabbi Moshe Hauer, Executive Vice President of the Orthodox Union, “what is going wrong beginning in our K-12 system that we are at the point we are today?” Rabbi Hauer responded: “what we have seen very clearly is that the kinds of behaviors and the kinds of environments that have been created on university campuses, which until very recently we only found in university campuses, we are now finding in K-12 or specifically middle school through 12th (grade) environments.” Rabbi Hauer noted how incidents of antisemitism have impacted Jewish Student Union clubs in middle and schools across the country. The House Ways & Means Committee held a hearing on Wednesday entitled: “From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing.” Smucker began his comments, stating: “There is no equivalency between what Hamas did, the horrific attacks and Israel defending itself. And I think it is important that is said… And so we stand with Israel and Israel’s right to defend itself.” In his comments, Smucker mentioned a recent antisemitic vandalism which occurred at Millersville University in Lancaster County. Smucker asked Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, Senior Vice President of Research, Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), if Congress should be concerned about foreign investments in universities from nations who don’t share our democratic values and what steps we should take to ensure college endowments aren’t investing in countries which actively oppose the United States. Dr. Schanzer responded by noting instances of significant direct investment in colleges from foreign nations and said “we don’t know what the countries are receiving in return. And that’s a huge problem. We need to see the contracts, we need to see what the universities agreed to in order to receive those funds. And it’s not happening. The Department of Education is actually woefully behind in tracking these disclosures.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-bonamici-promote-national-career-development-month,"Thompson, Bonamici Promote National Career Development Month",2023-11-16,2023,2023-11,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 Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), co-chairs of the bipartisan House Career and Technical Education Caucus, yesterday 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 individuals of all ages to take advantage of career development and put themselves in the driver’s seat of their futures."" “Career counselors and other career development professionals play an essential role in connecting students and job-seekers with good jobs that will lead to economic security,” Rep. Bonamici said. “I’m pleased to lead this resolution recognizing the importance of career professionals and career development activities with my CTE Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson.” “NCDA is so pleased to see bipartisan support for the designation of November as National Career Development Month. Career practitioners and educators are a vital resource for the livelihood of our nation’s workforce and the economic health and wellbeing of US workers, and we look forward to advancing career development for all Americans.” -- Deneen Pennington, Executive Director, National Career Development Association Read the resolution here . Additional Supporting Organizations: ACTE Advance CTE",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-sight-act,"Fitzpatrick, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan SIGHT Act",2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27), and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) introduced theSupporting Innovative Global Health Technologies (SIGHT) Act of 2023. The bipartisan bill to empower the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to boost its research and development capabilities for health care technologies in low and middle income countries abroad. ""The United States must remain a leader in health technology innovation at home and abroad,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""Our bipartisan bill aims to address global health issues and provide further research and development in order to help save millions of lives on the world stage.” “We need stronger American investments to tackle the global health challenges of the 21st century,” said CongresswomanSalazar. “The SIGHT Act establishes a program dedicated to research at USAID, allowing us to better focus our energy on transformative tools that can save lives and drive down costs. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill to improve healthcare outcomes for the most vulnerable.” ""COVID-19 laid bare that we must ensure populations at home and abroad have the resources to innovate rapidly, and that global health directly impacts economic stability and prosperity. As health emergencies continue to affect communities worldwide, it's important that we invest in organizations with a track record of successfully advancing global health. One great example is USAID,"" said Congresswoman Houlahan. ""I am proud to introduce this bipartisan piece of legislation to support USAID, enabling them to advance cross-cutting research and development and respond quickly to emerging public health threats."" “We applaud Reps. Fitzpatrick, Houlahan, and Salazar for recognizing both the need and the opportunity to elevate USAID’s role in global health R&D,”said Jamie Bay Nishi, executive director of the Global Health Technologies Coalition (GHTC), which represents 45 nonprofit organizations, academic institutions and aligned business committed to advancing innovations that save lives worldwide.“R&D partnerships led by USAID have been instrumental in saving millions of lives around the world—while alsostimulating investmentsthat create jobs here in the United States. It’s good to see Congressional leaders committed to intensifying the agency’s impact by encouraging USAID to go beyond a disease-specific approach and embrace a disease-agnostic approach—to pursue R&D partnerships that address the biggest priorities in global health, whatever and wherever they may be.” The SIGHT Act is also endorsed by: 1. 3rd Stone Design 2. Advancing Synergy 3. American Academy of Pediatrics 4. American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 5. AVAC 6. BEMPU Health 7. BIO Ventures for Global Health 8. Bugworks 9. Catalysts for Change 10. Center for Global Health Innovation 11. CEPI U.S. 12. Coalition for Health Research and Development 13. CORE Group 14. Deutsche Stiftung Weltbevoelkerung 15. FIND 16. FREO2 Foundation 17. Global Health Council 18. Global Health Strategies 19. Global Health Technologies Coalition 20. Global Impact 21. Hemex Health 22. IAVI 23. Innovative Vector Control Consortium 24. International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases 25. International Vaccine Institute 26. Makerere University School of Public Health 27. Management Sciences for Health 28. Mbarara University of Science and Technology 29. Medical IMPACT 30. Medicines for Malaria Venture 31. MRIGlobal 32. Pandemic Action Network 33. Panorama 34. PATH 35. Pathfinder International 36. Policy Cures Research 37. Population Council 38. Population Services International 39. Rice University Institute for Global Health Technologies Coalition 40. Sabin Vaccine Institute 41. Sightsavers 42. Sinapi Biomedical 43. Society for Children Orphaned by AIDS Inc. 44. South Africa Health Technologies Advocacy Coalition 45. Speak Up Africa 46. The BroadReach Group 47. The Task Force for Global Health 48. Treatment Action Group 49. Unlock Aid Coalition 50. White Ribbon Alliance Read the text of the billHERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-advances-priorities-appropriations-legislation,Smucker Advances Priorities in Appropriations Legislation,2023-11-15,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Legislative priorities advanced Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) have been included in H.R. 5894, the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024. Smucker, a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, offered an amendment ensuring that students continuing their education in a career and technical education program remain eligible for federal financial aid. Recently, the Biden administration released a regulation limiting access to federal financial aid for students attending certain post-secondary education programs. Smucker successfully offered an amendment to block the implementation of that portion of the rule. Speaking in favor of his amendment, Smucker said: “There is no mistaking that our workforce is in a dire state. There are 9.6 million open jobs across the country right now and only 5.4 million individuals looking for jobs. There are not enough people to fill all our open positions. Employers are keenly aware of this, and it’s a message that I hear over and over again in my district. [The Administration’s rule] is a huge disservice to students, this will mean less students will be able to use that pathway for a great career because they may not have the resources to pay.” Click here to watch Smucker’s remarks offered during consideration of his amendment. Also included in the appropriations legislation, is Smucker’s bipartisan Hospital Adoption Education Act, which aims to provide the health care industry with information and understanding about adoption-sensitive care. Most health care staff have not received education on adoption sensitivities and are unaware of how their words and actions could impact a prospective birth mother. Providing training for health care professionals and disseminating best practices to hospitals and birthing centers throughout the country will improve overall long-term health and emotional outcomes for the birth mother, the child she placed, and the adoptive family.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyces-statement-vote-against-continuing-resolution,Dr. Joyce's Statement on Vote Against Continuing Resolution,2023-11-14,2023,2023-11,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), released the following statement on his vote against H.R. 6363, the Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act: “Pennsylvania families cannot afford to continue the reckless spending of the Biden Administration. While I commend Speaker Johnson on his approach to prevent a massive omnibus spending bill at Christmas time, it’s time for Congress to pass individual appropriations bills that address the challenges that we face in a way that is fiscally responsible. Unfortunately, the Continuing Resolution proposed today fails to reduce our deficit, address inflation, or secure our porous southern border. I could not support this legislation.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-ways-and-means-republicans-demand-biden-administration-follow-law-end,"Kelly, Ways and Means Republicans Demand Biden Administration Follow the Law to End Surprise Medical Billing",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following a September hearing examining the fallout from the flawed implementation of surprise medical billing protections and an October roundtable with Biden Administration officials highlighting the problems with the Administration’s implementation of the No Surprises Act, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Tax Subcommittee, and Ways and Means Republicans are continuing to speak up for patients. In a new letter, signed by every Ways and Means Republican, to Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, Committee Republicans demand the Administration follow the law’s clear intent in implementing this historic patient protection legislation. “We ask that you swiftly revisit the final rule, ensure that it aligns with the law as written, and take immediate steps to make the law’s transparency provisions a reality for patients,” wrote Ways and Means Committee Republicans, led by Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). In the No Surprises Act, Congress created an arbitration process to ensure a fair balance when settling payment disputes between health insurers and out-of-network providers while protecting patients from surprise medical bills. As the Committee discovered during its hearing about the Biden Administration’s flawed implementation of the law, the independent dispute resolution (IDR) process established by the Administration’s rulemaking is failing to fulfill Congress’ intent: “The statutory text of the law is unambiguous – despite that, the Departments failed to implement a final rule that accurately reflects the law and this inconsistency has been proven in court four times where the Departments have lost each lawsuit…American patients and our greater health care system should not need to rely on Federal courts to litigate what their elected representatives unquestionably wrote into law. At our hearing, we heard specific examples of how these implementation flaws are harming patients and impacting medical providers, independent dispute resolution (IDR) entities, and health insurers,” wrote Ways and Means Republicans. The Administration’s implementation of the law has led to a new surprise for patients: fewer medical providers are covered by health insurance plans. Providers remaining in-network with a health insurance company have increasingly been forced to accept a lower reimbursement rate, putting access to quality patient care in jeopardy. Medical providers have been affected regardless of size, whether it be a small provider in a rural community or a large urban hospital system. “Small medical practices in rural and underserved communities that had been in-network with health insurers are now receiving network cancellations. Even larger providers, like hospitals, are suffering similar consequences from the downward pressure of reduced reimbursement from the skewed QPA [qualified payment amount]. Worse yet, challenges when grouping IDR claims, the growing backlog of cases, and cases in which large health insurers fail to pay medical providers any amount after arbitration combine to place a significant financial burden on medical providers, forcing them to reduce available staff and services for patients,"" wrote Committee Republicans. Read the full letter here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-davis-klobuchar-tillis-and-hoeven-introduce-bipartisan-va-billing,"Smucker, Davis, Klobuchar, Tillis, and Hoeven Introduce Bipartisan VA Billing Accountability Act",2023-11-09,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington-- Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) has partnered with Rep. Don Davis (NC-1) to reintroduce the bipartisan VA Billing Accountability Act. In the Senate, the measure is led by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and John Hoeven (R-ND). The VA Accountability Act would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to set specific and clear billing requirements, so veterans do not receive outdated co-payments from the VA. ""Our veterans and their families have sacrificed so much to protect our country and we should be doing all we can to make their transition to civilian life as easy as possible. Forcing them to pay for bureaucratic errors and delays is no way to treat those who have risked everything and sacrificed to protect our country,"" said Rep. Smucker. ""I encourage my colleagues in the House to pass this legislation again so we can bring our veterans peace of mind, stability, and financial security. "" “In the greatest nation on earth, veterans deserve nothing short of the best medical treatment and the highest standard of transparency,” said Congressman Davis. “Far too often, our vets are stuck with surprise medical bills months or even years after receiving care from the VA or outside providers. With the introduction of the VA Billing Accountability Act, all veterans must receive a bill no later than 180 days after getting treated at a VA facility and no later than 18 months after seeing an outside provider. After years of bipartisan attempts, now is the time to get the job done for our vets by passing this bill and ensuring financial predictability and stability for our nation’s fearless heroes.” “When we ask our young men and women to defend our nation, we make a promise to be there for them when they return home, not make their lives more difficult,” said Sen. Klobuchar. ""Too many veterans are receiving outdated or incorrect bills from the VA. Some veterans have even reported receiving medical bills years after they received care. That’s unacceptable. I’m working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to protect our veterans from these unfair practices and give them the peace of mind and relief they deserve."" “This important legislation ensures that veterans receive affordable, quality healthcare by waiving late co-payment fees for medications and other healthcare services,” said Sen. Tillis. “I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation on behalf of the more than 600,000 veterans that call North Carolina home.” “Our veterans have earned the health care they receive through the VA, and they deserve to have certainty when accessing those benefits,” said Sen. Hoeven. “Our legislation would ensure veterans receive timely notification of any required copayments, helping to prevent surprise bills and holding the VA accountable for errors and delays in its billing system.” Pennsylvania's Eleventh District is home to nearly 40,000 veterans. Over the last decade, federal oversight of the Department of Veterans Affairs has uncovered thousands of cases where the VA delivered delayed or inaccurate co-payments to veterans, causing financial stress and debt for military families. In one instance, more than 1,500 veterans were blindsided when they received co-payment bills for VA care dating as far back as five years. The VA Billing Accountability Act authorizes the VA to waive the requirement that a veteran make co-payments for medication, hospital care, nursing home care, and medical services if: an error committed by the VA or a VA employee caused delaying copayments notification to the veteran; and the veteran received such notification more than 180 days (18 months in the case of a non-VA facility) after the date on which they received care or services This legislation also grants authorizing power to the VA Secretary to eliminate requiring veterans make a co-payment if the VA does not abide by the billing timing mandates.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-torres-introduce-bipartisan-9-1-1-saves-act-to-reclassify-9-1-1-dispatchers-as-first-responders,"Fitzpatrick, Torres Introduce Bipartisan 9-1-1 SAVES Act to Reclassify 9-1-1 Dispatchers as First Responders",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) introduced the bipartisan Supporting Accurate Views of Emergency Services (SAVES) Act. 9-1-1 dispatchers are currently not classified as first responders. At zero cost to American taxpayers, the 9-1-1 SAVES Act reclassifies 9-1-1 dispatchers as first responders and recognizes America's over 100,000 9-1-1 professionals for their work to save lives. The bipartisan bill has the support of fire, police, 9-1-1, and public safety organizations across the United States. ""Public Safety telecommunicators play a critical role in emergency response as the initial first responder in any crisis situation,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""The thousands of operators and dispatchers work tirelessly everyday to coordinate public safety, police, fire, and ambulance units and to keep our communities safe. I am grateful to join Congresswoman Torres on this bipartisan bill to ensure that they are properly classified as responding officers."" “When Americans are experiencing the worst, most life-threatening moments of their lives, 9-1-1 dispatchers answer the call – they are true first responders,” said Congresswoman Torres. “My 9-1-1 SAVES Act provides a simple fix to reclassify 9-1-1 professionals as first responders and honor these brave men and women for their work. As a former 9-1-1 dispatcher for over 17 years, I know this small change would mean a great deal to dispatchers and urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join us in finally giving 9-1-1 professionals the recognition they earn every day."" “The federal classification of 9-1-1 professionals has been wrong for decades, characterizing their work as ‘clerical’ rather than ‘protective,’ which is an obvious error and injustice to anyone who understands emergency response,"" saidBecky Neugent, 9-1-1 Director for Autauga 9-1-1 (Prattsville, AL) and President of APCO International.""APCO appreciates Congresswoman Torres, Congressman Fitzpatrick, and our many other supporters for their dedication to correcting the classification. This is a common-sense change that would recognize the protective, lifesaving nature of 9-1-1 professionals’ work, and APCO looks forward to the day that the classification is fixed.” “The federal government currently classifies 911 professionals as a 'clerical' function. This classification is grossly inaccurate and demoralizes both the workforce specifically and the industry more broadly,"" saidS. RebeccaNeusteter, Executive Director, University of Chicago Health Lab and Principal Investigator, Transform911.""911 professionals are managing incredibly stressful situations, giving lifesaving instructions, using a vast amount of technology, and managing complex public safety units in the field. The University of Chicago Health Lab and all of our partners through the multidisciplinary Transform911 coalition applaud the reintroduction of the 911 SAVES Act in its efforts to reclassify and recognize 911 professionals as our nation’s first first responders.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-bera-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-strengthen-pediatric-brain-cancer,"Kelly, Bera Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Pediatric Brain Cancer Data Collection",2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA) introduced the Data for Pediatric Brain Cancer Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the collection and use of real-world data to support pediatric cancer research, and to improve treatments for children facing this devastating disease. “Randomized clinical trial designs are hard to use in rare disease patient populations due to the inability to find large study populations. This legislation seeks to use Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumors as a stepping stone to work towards using real-world data registries as external control cohorts for pediatric brain tumor clinical trials,” said Rep. Kelly. “The Pediatric Brain Tumor Real World Data Registry Program would strengthen and expand activities related to the collection, sharing, and use of real-world data for children with brain tumors. It is our hope that this legislation will improve both patient treatment and patient outcomes.” “As a physician, I am proud to introduce the Data for Pediatric Brain Cancer Act of 2023, a significant step forward in our mission to understand the complexities in clinical trial design in rare conditions,” said Rep. Bera, who previously served as Chief Medical Officer for Sacramento County. “By leveraging real-world data, we are equipping researchers with the tools they need to make progress in understanding and treating pediatric brain cancer. A tremendous step in the right direction for rare diseases, this will help enhance patient access and holds the potential to usher in groundbreaking treatments.” The Data for Pediatric Brain Cancer Act of 2023 is endorsed by the Children’s Cancer Research Fund, Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, National Brain Tumor Society, Hope4ATRT, and the Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium Foundation. Click here to view the text of the legislation. “Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) are exceptionally rare, making them a challenging subject for research. A federal program aimed collecting data for use in clinical trials could significantly enhance research efforts, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding and treating this aggressive cancer. Families affected by ATRT have shown unwavering commitment, dedicating their time and resources to support research and find a cure. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation wholeheartedly endorses this bill. Alongside Reps. Bera and Kelly, we will work to amplify the momentum needed to combat ATRT and provide hope to patients and their families,” said Ryne Debo, VP of Research for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. ""Patients and families confronting the diagnosis of a highly aggressive pediatric brain tumor experience an unimaginable urgency for more effective treatment options,” said David Arons, President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Brain Tumor Society. “Lacking more effective standard treatments for many patients with these malignant brain tumors, clinical trials are often the best hope for survival. The Data for Pediatric Brain Cancer Act stands to help researchers develop the capacity to leverage data and generate evidence in service of establishing external controls for pediatric brain tumor trials. Ultimately the bill benefits patient access, clinical trial design and the need to rigorously evaluate potential new treatments prior to approval. The National Brain Tumor Society commends Reps. Bera and Kelly for their leadership on this critical issue.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-supports-resolution-to-censure-rashida-tlaib,Reschenthaler Supports Resolution to Censure Rashida Tlaib,2023-11-08,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) released the following statement after the House passed a resolution censuring Representative Rashida Tlaib for promoting false narratives regarding Hamas’ attack on Israel and calling for the destruction of the state of Israel: “As a Navy JAG stationed in Iraq, I sat face-to-face with terrorists in a Baghdad courtroom and secured their death sentences. I know the evils of terrorists and they should not have cheerleaders in Congress. Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of at least 33 Americans and more than 1,400 Israelis. Congresswoman Tlaib’s repeated anti-Israel remarks are not only deeply concerning but completely unacceptable from a sitting member of Congress. From the river to the sea is not ‘an aspirational call for freedom’ — it’s a call for the genocide of the Israeli people. Antisemitism has no place in America, and we must denounce it in the strongest possible terms. Congress must show the world that we unequivocally stand with Israel, our greatest ally in the Middle East, and against all terrorist groups like Hamas that threaten the U.S. and our allies.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-make-election-day-a-federal-holiday,Fitzpatrick Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Make Election Day a Federal Holiday,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) to designate Election Day as a federal holiday. ""There is no institution more fundamental to our democracy than our elections,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""At the beginning of this 118th Congress, I was proud to introduce a comprehensive reform package that includes measures to ensure election integrity, guarantee that only American citizens vote in our elections, and standardize absentee vote counting to produce election results quickly -- and this bill is the next step. Designating Election Day as a federal holiday will give all Americans more flexibility and accessibility to cast their votes."" “The single most important right an American has is the right to vote, but too many Americans still face obstacles when trying to cast their ballot,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “We must always continue moving forward in the fight to make it easier – not harder – for all Americans to exercise this Constitutional right and responsibility. I’m proud to join Rep. Fitzpatrick in this effort to ensure every American has the ability to make their voices heard.” Read the text of the bill HERE. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-hold-telephone-town-hall-medicare-open-enrollment,Rep. Kelly to hold telephone town hall on Medicare Open Enrollment,2023-11-07,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) will hold his annual telephone town hall regarding Medicare Open Enrollment. Kelly will be joined by officials from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Social Security Administration, and Pennsylvania Medicare Education & Decision Insight (PA MEDI) on the call. With Medicare enrollment season in full swing, the panel hopes the tele-town hall will answer questions for both new and current enrollees. If a resident of Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District would like to join the call, they are encouraged to use the pin-less participant dial-in number below. A livestream will also be available on Rep. Kelly's Facebook page. DETAILS",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2023/11/fitzpatrick-praises-amtrak-grants-for-bucks-and-montgomery-counties,Fitzpatrick Praises Amtrak Grants For Bucks and Montgomery Counties,2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Brian K. Fitzpatrick,F000466,fitzpatrick.house.gov,fitzpatrick,https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) released the following statement after Amtrakannounced $10 billion in Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) funds for 12 critical infrastructure projects along the Northeast Corridor, including in Bucks and Montgomery counties. The funds include a significant investment for upgrades at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) Cornwells Heights Station in Bucks County. “Intercity passenger rail and regional public transportation connect Bucks and Montgomery Counties to one another, the Commonwealth, and the entire Northeast region. Today’s grant announcement awarding funding to Amtrak and SEPTA means more jobs, faster service, and sturdier infrastructure are on their way to our communities,""said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""These major investments include millions in project planning throughout Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and $30.5 million alone for substantial platform and accessibility upgrades at the Cornwells Heights SEPTA station in Bensalem. While key programs through Amtrak and like the Fed-State Partnership were bolstered by the funding made available by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, robust annual appropriations for these grants remain essential to keeping America’s infrastructure, workforce, and economy strong. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that our nation’s infrastructure is efficient, competitive, and safe.” “These grants will help advance Amtrak’s plans to modernize the Northeast Corridor and unlock major bottlenecks on the busiest passenger rail corridor in America,”said Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing critical funding to support of SEPTA’s infrastructure state of good repair and accessibility priorities,”said SEPTA Board Chairman Pasquale T. Deon Sr. “With funding from this grant, SEPTA will be making a major investment at Cornwells Heights Station – one that not only will make the station fully accessible but also improve operational efficiency and customer convenience. We are grateful to Congressman Fitzpatrick and the region’s Congressional delegation for working to fund this program and supporting our application.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-carbajal-reintroduce-home-brave-act,"Smucker, Carbajal Reintroduce Home for the Brave Act",2023-11-06,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington— Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) is again partnering with Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) to reintroduce bipartisan legislation aimed at improving housing access and affordability for U.S. veterans. The lawmakers’ Home for the Brave Act would exempt veterans' disability benefits from counting toward total income when determining their eligibility for housing assistance programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). ""Our veterans put their lives at great risk to keep all of us safe back home. To return home and be priced out of housing assistance simply because they receive service-related disability benefits is just plain wrong,"" said Rep. Smucker. ""Our district has made great strides to eliminate veteran homelessness, and I am proud to stand with my constituents in this noble effort. I want to thank Rep. Carbajal for his work on behalf of our nation's veterans and their families and look forward to working together to get this legislation passed."" ""It is wrong to deny veterans access to housing assistance programs due to disability benefits they receive for service-related injury or illness,"" said Rep. Carbajal. ""I am proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation to make housing more affordable and accessible on the Central Coast and across the country. They stepped up to defend our nation and now Congress must step up for them by ending this housing discrimination against our disabled veterans."" Financial benefits for service-connected disabilities are currently counted as income when determining eligibility for housing assistance programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). As a result, many veterans are determined ineligible for these housing programs because their disability benefits are placing them at a higher income level. Other agencies, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), do not consider veterans benefits for service-connected disabilities income. A veteran filing disability claims with the VA received on average $20,600 in 2022. The bill has endorsement of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), National Coalition for the Homeless, and the Military Officers Association of America. ""The VFW supports this legislation to ensure veterans will be able to fully utilize their earned benefits without the penalty of financial offsets,"" said VFW Director of National Legislative Services, Patrick Murray. ""Using one earned VA benefit should never prevent a veteran from using another unrelated benefit. The VFW is glad to see this issue has the bipartisan support it deserves, and we thank Congressmen Carbajal and Smucker for making this a priority."" “Far too many of our nation’s heroes face the grim reality of homelessness following their time of service,” said American Legion National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer. “Moreso, veterans left with service-connected disabilities may experience discrimination through housing assistance programs within the Department of Housing & Urban Development. The American Legion is proud to address this injustice by supporting the Home for the Brave Act.” ""The Home for the Brave Act is a critical bipartisan solution to expand housing assistance for homeless veterans,"" said Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret), President and CEO of the Military Officers Association of America. ""Service-disabled veterans receive compensation for injuries sustained in service to our nation. These payments should not restrict their access to housing programs when in need. We applaud Representatives Carbajal and Smucker for spearheading this legislation to address a major issue facing homeless veterans. MOAA urges Congress to swiftly enact the Home for the Brave Act and expand housing opportunities for those who have sacrificed for our country."" Contact: Eric Reath 202-597-0228, eric.reath@mail.house.gov",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-house-judiciary-committee-we-must-address-surge-suspected-terrorists,Kelly to House Judiciary Committee: We must address the surge of suspected terrorists crossing our Northern border,2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,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), Co-Chair of the Northern Border Security Caucus, testified before the House Judiciary Committee about the threats and vulnerabilities of an unsecured U.S. Northern border. Kelly also urged members of the Committee, whose jurisdiction includes immigration issues, to support his resolution introduced last month. The resolution calls on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to develop a formal plan to secure the Northern border. Currently, the resolution is backed by Kelly and 15 House colleagues. Rep. Kelly's testimony follows recent reports from U.S. Customs & Border Protection which shows an alarming number of suspects on the terror watchlist who are crossing into the United States along the Northern border with Canada. To date in FY23, 85% of all suspected terrorists encountered at land border ports of entry have crossed into the United States along the Northern border, according to U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP). That number is up from just 34% in FY2021. You can watch Rep. Kelly's testimony here. KEY EXCERPTS FROM REP. KELLY'S TESTIMONY: ""There is one stretch of almost 500 miles where there is only one agent. One. We're outnumbered at the Northern border. The numbers are off the charts with what's going on right now. This whole thing has gotten out of control."" ""At the Southern border, you have to cross a river. At the Northern border, you just have to take one step. There's no line drawn. There's no fence, there's nothing. It's completely unguarded."" The irresponsibility of the Biden administration right now to sit back and continue to refuse to even acknowledge the fact that we have a problem, not only at our Southwest border but also at our Northern border... it's more important than a Republican problem or a Democrat problem. This is an American problem."" BACKGROUND Of the 505 individuals on the terror watchlist that CBP has encountered at ports of entry since the beginning of the current fiscal year, 429 have occurred at the Northern border. In Aug. 2023, 55% of all illegal drug seizures (by weight) at U.S. borders came on the Northern border. More Northern border land encounters have occurred so far in FY23 than in ALL of 2020, 2021, and 2022 COMBINED. Since President Biden took office in Jan. 2021, there has been a 20,043% increase in Northern land border encounters. As record levels of border encounters and drug smuggling continue to increase, U.S. Border Patrol staffing on the Northern border has remained constant since Fiscal Year 2009.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-passes-kelly-backed-resolution-condemning-pro-terror-antisemitic,"U.S. House passes Kelly-backed resolution condemning pro-terror, antisemitic groups on American campuses",2023-11-03,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- On Thursday, the U.S. House passed a resolution, introduced by Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT) and supported by Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), which condemns the support of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations at American institutions of higher education which have created a hostile environment for Jewish students, faculty, and staff. The resolution passed 396-23. The vote follows a series of antisemitic messages and anti-Jewish death threats on college campuses nationwide in recent weeks since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by the terror group Hamas. Notably, this week at New York's Cornell University in which a 21-year-old engineering student was arrested and named in a federal complaint charging him with posting threats to kill or injure Jewish people, according to reports. ""The antisemitic hate toward Jewish students and staff at college campuses is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""We must call out these threats for what they are: hate speech. Students of all backgrounds and religious beliefs deserve to feel safe on college campuses in Western Pennsylvania and across the United States. The brutal and barbaric actions we have seen Hamas take against Israel and the Jewish people are acts of terrorism -- nothing less."" “I never thought I’d see American students celebrate a terrorist organization dedicated to the destruction of Israel and the Jewish people,” said Rep. Owens, Chairman of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee. “Elite institutions have failed their students and alumni by offering inadequate statements of condemnation. This has exposed the deep rot of antisemitism in our higher education system, from statements placing blame solely on Israel for the atrocities of Hamas to demonstrations glorifying mass murder, rape, torture, and kidnapping. It is not nuanced or difficult to stand against terror.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-us-house-pass-14-billion-israel-aid-package,"Rep. Kelly, U.S. House pass $14 billion Israel aid package",2023-11-02,2023,2023-11,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) supported the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, a $14 billion aid package to assist Israel in their war with the terror group Hamas. The bill, which passed by a vote of 226-196, now advances to the U.S. Senate for consideration. ""The United States cannot stand idly by while Israel and the Jewish people are under attack,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""This aid package will boost Israel's defense capabilities and allow the IDF to maintain military readiness during one of Israel's most critical moments in history. Today's vote shows the U.S. remains committed to our great ally Israel in its fight against the barbaric and radical terror group, Hamas."" Last week, the House passed a Rep. Kelly-backed resolution condemning the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization. BACKGROUND The Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act includes the following:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-meuser-applauds-courts-decision-ruling-pas-rggi-membership,Rep. Meuser Applauds Court’s Decision Ruling PA’s RGGI Membership Unconstitutional,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) released the below statement following the Commonwealth Court’s ruling that former Governor Wolf’s unilateral decision to enter Pennsylvania into the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) was unconstitutional. Meuser said, “I’m pleased the Commonwealth Court has ruled former Governor Wolf’s unilateral decision to enter Pennsylvania into RGGI unconstitutional. Pennsylvania, as the second largest energy-producing state in the country, should not be beholden to unmeetable standards set by states like Connecticut, Vermont, New Jersey, and others. Our energy industry differs drastically from that of the other states in RGGI, and thus, the standards set by the initiative are not compatible with Pennsylvania’s production potential. Pennsylvania’s goal should be to increase natural gas capacity to provide clean, reliable, and affordable energy to our residents, the country, and the world in a manner that lowers carbon emissions responsibly and realistically. RGGI posed a threat to the 123,000 natural gas jobs in Pennsylvania, and today’s ruling is a win for the Commonwealth’s energy industry, employees, and consumers.” In early 2021, Pennsylvania’s Republican Congressional delegation wrote to then-Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Patrick McDonnell expressing serious concerns about the Commonwealth joining RGGI. That letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-thompson-host-constituent-hours-24,Rep. Thompson to Host Constituent Hours,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"KITTANNING, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Wednesday, November 8 in Kittanning. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. These office hours will regularly occur on the second Wednesday of every month. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Armstrong County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. DATE: Wednesday, November 8, 2023 LOCATION: Pennsylvania State Rep. Donna Oberlander's Kittanning Office 200 North Jefferson Street, Kittanning, PA 16201 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-thompson-host-constituent-hours-25,Rep. Thompson to Host Constituent Hours,2023-11-01,2023,2023-11,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"SELINSGROVE, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ""GT"" Thompson today, announced that his staff will host constituent office hours on Wednesday, November 8 and November 29 in Selinsgrove. Staff will be available to meet with residents who need assistance from federal agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the IRS, and others. No appointments are necessary. Residents of Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District are welcome to meet one-on-one with staff to discuss issues or concerns they may have with the federal government. Arriving early is encouraged, as meetings take place on a first-come, first-served basis. In an effort to make constituents aware of staff office hours, please consider announcing these meetings for your viewers, readers, and listeners: Snyder County Constituent Hours WHO: Congressional Staff from the office of U.S. Rep. Glenn ""GT"" Thompson TIME: 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. DATE: Wednesday, November 8 and November 29, 2023 LOCATION:Pennsylvania State Rep. David Rowe's Selinsgrove Office 1 Susquehanna Valley Mall Dr., Suite F3, Selinsgrove, PA 17870 While constituent hours take place at various locations in the 15th Congressional District throughout the year, constituents are always able to contact Rep. Thompson’s offices in Bellefonte and Oil City from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday: Bellefonte Office 3555 Benner Pike, Suite 101 Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 353-0215 Fax: (814) 353-0218 Oil City Office 217 Elm St. Suite B Oil City, PA 16301 Phone: (814) 670-0432 Fax: (814) 670-0868 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T01:01:09Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-backs-republican-led-push-biden-administration-withdraw-unworkable,"Rep. Kelly backs Republican-led push for Biden administration to withdraw unworkable, unrealistic federal nurse staffing mandate",2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,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) applauded a letter led by House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08), House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), and Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-ID) which calls on the Biden administration to immediately withdraw the proposed rule and provide justification for its $40.6 billion unfunded mandate that could force many nursing homes to close, threatening resident access to direct care services. The letter, which was sent to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, follows the Biden administration's recently proposed one-size-fits-all federal nurse staffing mandate, despite overwhelming evidence that such a policy would be virtually impossible for the nation’s nursing homes to meet. Earlier this month, Rep. Kelly joined a similar letter to Secretary Becerra calling on HHS to reconsider their proposed federal staffing requirements on nursing home facilities. ""I want to thank Chairman Smith, Chair McMorris Rodgers, and Ranking Member Crapo for further calling on the Biden administration to reconsider this harmful mandate,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""I have serious concerns that this rule would result in limited access to care for seniors, force mandatory increases in state Medicaid budgets, and most consequentially lead to widespread nursing home closures. I urge the administration to reverse this rule at once."" This week, Rep. Kelly signed onto H.R. 5796, Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act, which provides patients with timely, high-quality care delivered close to home. BACKGROUND",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-notes-disparity-federal-education-funding,Smucker Notes Disparity in Federal Education Funding,2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, is shining a light on a wide funding disparity between programs supporting four-year degree programs and career and technical education programs. Smucker commented during a recent hearing of the House Ways & Means Committee: “Now, I wouldn’t discourage a four-year degree. It’s important. But think about the need to reconfigure and rebalance where we place our priorities…I have a bill today, as well, that would create a tax credit. And I think, when you look at the disparity in where we are putting our focus and our federal dollars…it’s really important that we pass something like [the USA Workforce Tax Credit Act], as well,” said Smucker. During the hearing, Smucker highlighted his USA Workforce Tax Credit Act,legislation which will supercharge investment in community-based apprenticeship initiatives, career and technical education, and workforce development. Donations made to nonprofits organizations including educational institutions, community organizations, training institutes, community colleges, scholarship groups and labor union-affiliated nonprofits, would be eligible for a limited tax credit. The Federal Student Aid office annually spends approximately $112 billion on grants, work-study and loan programs. The Government Accountability Office estimated the cost of the federal Direct Loan program was $197 billion over the past twenty-five years. Initial estimates suggested this program would generate $114 billion in new revenue over this time. The cost for WIOA is approximately $4 billion annually and the federal Perkins program provides nearly $1.4 billion for career and technical education each year.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-bonamici-introduce-bill-strengthen-cybersecurity-education,"Thompson, Bonamici Introduce Bill to Strengthen Cybersecurity Education",2023-10-31,2023,2023-10,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 Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), co-chairs of the Congressional Career and Technical Education (CTE) Caucus, yesterday introduced the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act to mark the end of Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This bipartisan legislation seeks to create a pilot program within the Department of Education that will award competitive grants to career and technical education programs that integrate cybersecurity into their curriculum. In critical infrastructure sectors, like telecommunications, agriculture, energy, 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. 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. ""Our society is increasingly reliant on cyber technologies for our most critical infrastructure. As bad actors increase cyberattacks, 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 of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. ""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."" “Cybersecurity is important to businesses and governments of all sizes and people of all ages. Growing the cybersecurity workforce will help protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure from bad actors. The bipartisan Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act will provide more students with access to cybersecurity education programs and give them the skills to fill high-wage, in-demand jobs. I’m pleased to join my colleague Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson to update CTE programs to meet the needs of our modern workforce,” said Rep. Bonamici, Co-Chair of the Career and Technical Education Caucus. ""Our nation's schools are the frequent targets of costly and harmful ransomware and other cyberattacks. The Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act offers a timely and necessary investment in the cybersecurity workforce for school districts and other critical infrastructure sectors.""—Keith Krueger, Consortium for School Networking CEO (CoSN) “The rapid evolution of cyber technology creates urgent demands for a skilled workforce adept at confronting modern threats. This legislation would provide vital training that equips learners with the skills necessary to pursue opportunity-filled and rewarding career pathways in protecting critical infrastructure across the country. ACTE appreciates Reps. Thompson and Bonamici’s support of cybersecurity education, particularly during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.” – LeAnn Curry, ACTE Executive Director ""From coding to problem-solving to crisis management and more, building cybersecurity skills through Career Technical Education (CTE) provides learners with the technical and human skills that are increasingly necessary across all career paths. Advance CTE applauds Representatives Thompson and Bonamici for introducing the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act, which leverages CTE to equip more learners with the skills and knowledge needed not only for their success but also the nation’s.” – Kate Kramer, Advance CTE Executive Director ""Cybersecurity jobs are vital to protecting America's critical infrastructure and offer rewarding careers for hundreds of thousands of people. But the reality is our country needs more skilled individuals to fill these roles. IBM welcomes bipartisan action on this important issue with the introduction of the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act. We hope to see this bill move forward in both chambers so Americans can get the skills needed for meaningful careers in cybersecurity.” - David Barnes, Vice President, Global Workforce Policy, IBM Additional Supporting Organizations: SANS Institute/GIAC Certifications Palo Alto Networks To read the bill text, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-announces-november-mobile-office-hours,Reschenthaler Announces November Mobile Office Hours,2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) announced his staff will hold mobile office hours at various locations throughout Pennsylvania’s 14th Congressional District next month to offer increased assistance to constituents experiencing problems with a federal agency. During these mobile office sessions, constituents can receive help with Social Security and Medicare issues, federal grant funding, passports and visas, immigration and naturalization services, veterans’ benefits, and the IRS. November's schedule is outlined below: What: Greene County Mobile Office Hours Date: Thursday, November 2, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Greene County Office Building, 93 East High Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370 What: Fayette County Mobile Office Hours Date: Friday, November 3, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Fayette County Courthouse, 61 East Main Street, Uniontown, PA 15401 What: Indiana Mobile Office Hours Date: Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Indiana County Courthouse Annex, 827 Water Street, Indiana, PA 15701 What: Somerset Mobile Office Hours Date: Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Somerset County Planning Conference Room, 300 North Center Avenue, Suite 540, Somerset, PA 15501 What: Connellsville Mobile Office Hours Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: Connellsville Municipal Building, 110 North Arch Street, Connellsville, PA 15425",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-urges-usps-join-efforts-raise-awareness-combat-opioid-abuse-through,"Smucker Urges USPS to Join Efforts to Raise Awareness, Combat Opioid Abuse through New Stamp",2023-10-30,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), in a letter to Post Master General and CEO Louis DeJoy, calls on the United States Postal Service (USPS) to join in the fight to raise awareness and combat opioid abuse through the issuance of a new semipostal stamp, often referred to as a charity stamp. Smucker’s letter comes during National Red Ribbon Week, which is an annual opportunity to promote awareness about drug abuse and prevention. A new semipostal stamp would raise funds for government programs which support prevention and recovery efforts. Click here to read the letter. Smucker’s letter notes that tragically over 105,000 Americans, including 4,703 Pennsylvanians, died of drug overdoses in 2022 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fentanyl has emerged as “the single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered” according to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). “A semipostal charity stamp to help raise funds for federal programs to promote drug and opioid abuse awareness and recovery efforts will bring light to some of our citizens who currently are stuck in the darkness of addiction. I encourage you to use your authority under the Semipostal Authorization Act to issue one next year during National Red Ribbon Week as a sign of USPS’ commitment to delivering for all Americans,” Smucker says in the letter. Previous semipostal stamps have supported government programs, including the Breast Cancer Research Stamp which has raised $96 million for programs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Healing PTSD Stamp has raised $2 million for programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Alzheimer’s Stamp has raised $1.4 million for research efforts at NIH. National Red Ribbon Week is observed annually from October 23-31. Click here for more history about Red Ribbon Week from the DEA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-kelly-matsui-dunn-thompson-introduce-legislation-support-access-evidence,"Reps. Kelly, Matsui, Dunn, Thompson introduce legislation to support access to evidence-based care for rare disease patients",2023-10-27,2023,2023-10,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. Reps. Mike Kelly (R-PA-16), Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Reps. Neal Dunn (R-FL-02), and Mike Thompson (D-CA-04), introduced the Providing Realistic Opportunity To Equal and Comparable Treatment for Rare (PROTECT Rare) Act. This legislation will support patients with rare and ultra-rare diseases in getting evidence-based, medically necessary care covered by their health insurance. Over 90% of rare diseases have no FDA-approved treatment, leaving many rare and ultra-rare disease patients facing serious and life-threatening illness to rely on off-label use of drugs approved by the FDA for more common conditions. This legislation will allow Medicare and Medicaid to use additional sources, including peer-reviewed literature, when considering whether rare disease therapies meet the standard for “medically accepted indications” to provide coverage. It will also require private payers to create an expedited review pathway for formulary exception, reconsideration, and/or appeal of any denial of coverage for a drug or biological prescribed for a patient with a rare disorder. “Modern medicine has the potential to address many of the most serious diseases we face, but too often people with rare and ultra-rare diseases don’t have the opportunity to benefit from these new cures,” said Rep. Kelly. “In some instances, there simply aren’t enough patients with a rare disease to run a full clinical trial. That’s why we need to empower doctors to make the best decision for their patients, using all the clinical data which is currently available. The PROTECT Rare Act will do just this, and guarantees patients have every opportunity to access life-saving cures in a way that works for them.” “Access to the best medical care is crucial for patients living with rare and ultra-rare diseases, yet too often these patients cannot get the evidence-based care they need,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “The community of rare patients deserves coverage for medically necessary treatments, the same way patients with more common conditions are covered by their health insurers. Our current system for determining coverage of certain drugs is limited when it comes to rare diseases. That’s why I introduced the PROTECT Rare Act to ensure that rare and ultra-rare patients are no longer denied access to the care prescribed by their doctors.” “I hear from many of my constituents who fear that restrictions on off-label drugs threatens not only their quality of life but also their chance of survival. It is important that rare disease patients have access to proven courses of treatment that include off-label uses of drugs when no other viable treatment options exist,” said Congressman Dunn, MD. “To ensure that these patients have access to appropriate care, Medicare and Medicaid must be given increased flexibility to cover such treatments if widely available research suggests their use is appropriate.” “Access to new and innovative treatments are essential to the health and well-being for seniors on Medicare who live with rare diseases,” said Rep. Thompson. “Too often, these people have very few options and new treatments or off-label drugs are often not covered under Medicare or Medicaid. The PROTECT Rare Act will allow Medicare and Medicaid to cover the cost of medication or treatment that doctors think would benefit their patients if appropriate, providing flexibility to Americans living with rare diseases.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://johnjoyce.house.gov/media/press-releases/dr-joyce-congratulates-speaker-house-mike-johnson,Dr. Joyce Congratulates Speaker of the House Mike Johnson,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,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), released the following statement on the Election of Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04) as the 56th Speaker of the House of Representatives: “As we look to enact our Commitment to America, there is no greater champion of our conservative values than Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. As a man of faith, the son of a firefighter, and a loving father and husband, Speaker Johnson has the values and foundation that are necessary to lead the House of Representatives at this critical time. While serving on the House Judiciary and House Armed Services Committees, Speaker Johnson has been a tireless fighter on the issues that matter most: safeguarding the rule of law, and ensuring our nation’s military remains well-trained, and well-equipped to confront any adversary. It’s time to fight to secure our border, stop President Biden’s runaway spending, and chart a new course back to fiscal sanity. I look forward to working together to lower energy prices, develop innovative measures to bring doctors to rural areas, and to defend our Pennsylvania values in Washington.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/kelly-touts-educational-choice-children-act-empowering-parents-children-0,"Kelly touts Educational Choice for Children Act, empowering parents & children during Ways & Means hearing",2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- During a Ways & Means Committee hearing on Wednesday, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways and Means Tax Subcommittee, highlighted the Educational Choice for Children Act, critical legislation he supports that would empower parents and expand their children's K-12 educational options. Kelly also highlighted the importance of school boards and parents' rights. The hearing, titled ""Educational Freedom and Opportunity for American Families, Students, and Workers,"" examined the need for increased educational opportunities for children in both K-12 and post-secondary education. Among the proposals the Committee highlighted are 529 accounts -- a tax-advantaged savings account designed to be used for the beneficiary's education expenses -- to address America’s skilled labor shortage by expanding 529s to cover skilled trade or licensing programs. ""Children are 25% of our population, but they are 100% of our future,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""We must give parents and children every opportunity to pursue the education that is best for them and that puts them on the best path forward from day one. Whether the job requires a high school diploma, a post-secondary degree, or a different certification, everyone deserves a high-quality education that sets them up for success. Education is the key to everything."" Prior to serving in Congress, Rep. Kelly served on the Butler Area School Board for four years. WATCH: You can watch Rep. Kelly's speech during Wednesday's hearing here. About the 'Educational Choice for Children Act' Provides $10 billion in annual tax credits to be made available to taxpayers. Allotment of these credits to individuals would be administered by the Treasury Department. A base amount will be set for each state and then the credits are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Uses a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts. Includes provisions that govern Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), as SGOs are given the ability to determine the individual amount of scholarship awards. An estimated two million students in any elementary or secondary education setting, including homeschool, are eligible to receive a scholarship. Eligible use of scholarships awards includes tuition, fees, book supplies, and equipment for the enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary school. The Educational Choice for Children Act has received the endorsement of the Invest in Education Coalition, American Federation for Children, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Heritage Action, Home School Legal Defense Association, Agudath Israel, Orthodox Union, Association of Christian Schools International, CAPE, Excel in Education, and former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-small-business-subcommittee-urges-review-basel-iii-implications-small,House Small Business Subcommittee Urges Review of Basel III Implications on Small Enterprises,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Members of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access, led by Chairman Dan Meuser (PA-09) and Ranking Member Greg Landsman (OH-01), sent a letter to Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell and Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr raising concerns surrounding the implications of the proposed Basel III capital requirements and their likely impact on small business lending in the United States. This move comes amid growing apprehension regarding tightening credit conditions, escalating costs of credit, and the overarching influence of increased capital mandates on small enterprises. Recent data, including findings from the Federal Reserve’s Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey on Bank Lending Practices (SLOOS) and the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) September 2023 Optimism Index, highlights a constricting credit environment for small firms, particularly those with annual sales below $50 million. The Subcommittee underscores the unintended consequences of stringent capital requirements intended for larger banks, but which also indirectly affect smaller financial institutions and the small businesses they traditionally serve. There is a pressing need for a detailed review of the Basel III proposal, emphasizing their downstream effects on small, especially diverse-owned businesses in various communities. The Subcommittee has requested a comprehensive economic analysis from the Federal Reserve, focusing on: The potential effects of the Basel III Proposal on small business access to capital. The specific impact on diverse-owned small businesses, considering the current high-interest-rate environment. The consideration given to small business interests during the initial review phase of the proposal. The letter, co-signed by members across party lines, demonstrates a unified front in advocating for small business interests. It requests a response from the Federal Reserve by November 15, 2023. Chairman Dan Meuser said, “Ensuring reliable and affordable access to capital for small businesses is non-negotiable for a balanced economy. We need pro-growth, pro-small business, and pro-American initiatives to support entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania and across the country. The last thing we need is for the cost of capital to spike for Main Street, limiting access and adding more economic pressures that strain small business owners and workers.” Ranking Member Greg Landsman said, ""One of the biggest challenges facing small business owners in Southwest Ohio and across the country is access to affordable capital. This bipartisan effort will give our local entrepreneurs stronger opportunities for success.” Rep. Sharice L. Davids said, “It's imperative we have accurate and up-to-date data to adequately support Kansas small businesses and their ability to access capital. I appreciate the opportunity to work with my House Small Business Committee colleagues from both sides of the aisle to advocate for small businesses across the county.” Rep. Mark Alford said, ""This is about safeguarding the American Dream for small business owners in Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District and across America. They are a rich part of the fabric of our country and contribute greatly to the economy. Rural and veteran-owned small businesses, like those in my district, face increased challenges during this time. As members of the Small Business Committee, we must do everything we can to defend Small Businesses and the American Dream."" Text of the letter can be found here. The Small Business Subcommittee continues its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to the growth and sustainability of small businesses nationwide, emphasizing the need for balanced regulations that support, not hinder, this critical sector.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-meuser-students-reminded-apply-congressional-nomination-service-academies,Rep. Meuser: Students Reminded to Apply for Congressional Nomination to Service Academies by Nov. 1,2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dan Meuser is encouraging all high school seniors interested in obtaining a congressional nomination to a U.S. service academy to apply prior to the November 1stdeadline. ""It takes an exceptional individual to choose a career path dedicated to service and one’s country,” said Rep. Dan Meuser. “Every year, it’s a privilege to nominate some of the most outstanding students from Pennsylvania’s Ninth District to our nation’s service academies. I commend the dedication and effort displayed by these students, both inside and outside of the classroom. I look forward to watching them serve our country, as they embark on a challenging yet rewarding career in the U.S. military.” The application process for a service academy nomination is currently open and the deadline to submit is November 1, 2023. Congressman Meuser has the privilege of nominating candidates to four of the five U.S. service academies: U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination for appointment. Due to the high number of qualified applicants, the Congressman holds a competitive application process. In addition, every candidate is interviewed by Congressman Meuser and his Academy Nomination Board, which consists of Academy representatives, military veterans, and other leaders from the community. Visit https://meuser.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations for more information and to complete an application. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to Rep. Meuser’s office at (610) 428-0869 or email the PA-09 Academy Liaison at Denise.Weaver2@mail.house.gov.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-bicameral-retirement-savings-americans-act-gains-momentum,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Retirement Savings for Americans Act Gains Momentum",2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington—The bipartisan and bicameral Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA), introduced in the House by Reps. Smucker (R-PA-11) and Sewell (D-AL-7) and in the Senate by Sens. Hickenlooper (D-CO) and Tillis (R-NC), continues to gain strong support. Business leader Charles Schwab has penned a letter of support urging the passage of the RSAA, calling it “a simple straightforward step that will pay tremendous future dividends for millions of working Americans.” Click here to read the letter. Scwhab’s letter reads in part: “Creating this kind of program meets an obligation we all share to help every working American build financial security and well-being in retirement. I also know it will offset future support we surely would have to provide if we don't help more people begin to build that security today. And in true American spirit, it isn't a giveaway, but an incentive for working individuals to begin helping themselves and their families.” “It’s an honor to have Charles Schwab’s support for the Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA), a man whose visionary leadership in the field of retirement savings helped build a secure future for so many. Mr. Schwab keenly notes that our legislation will help millions of Americans of build a “retirement nest egg” and thereby offset the future government support individuals would need because the current retirement system fails them. All Americans – not just the wealthy - deserve a chance to save for their retirement and the RSAA will do just that. I join Mr. Schwab in calling for my colleagues to join this growing momentum of support for the Retirement Savings for Americans Act,” said Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11). “Mr. Schwab has been at the forefront of ensuring stable retirement options for generations of Americans. Financial security is something all Americans should have access to- not just high-income earners. The RSAA allows for the American Dream to be attainable and sustainable for all. I thank Mr. Schwab for his support and commitment to this legislation,” said Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-7). ""I want to thank Charles Schwab for endorsing this legislation, which will help roughly 40 million Americans who lack access to employer-sponsored retirement plans,"" said Senator Tillis. ""The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options."" “Americans who work hard their entire lives deserve to retire with dignity,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “This bill helps low-income workers enjoy a secure retirement and fulfill their American dream.’’ Background: The Retirement Savings for Americans Act 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. The Retirement Security for Americans Act has strong support from associations and organizations across the nation, here’s what they are saying: “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would address significant and longstanding gaps in the U.S. retirement system that have severely limited participation from low- and moderate-income workers. If enacted, this legislation would result in a healthier retirement system, a more financially 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 Smucker and Sewell on this important legislation, and we applaud them for their bipartisan leadership on behalf of workers nationwide.” - John Lettieri, President and CEO, Economic Innovation Group “Lawmakers today are searching for bold ideas to support and empower American workers—and especially low-income workers. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act is just such an idea,” said Kevin Hassett, Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution and former Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers. “This legislation would put millions of American families on the path to financial security and help them build intergenerational wealth.” “Too many working Americans are struggling to save and invest to secure their standard of living when they choose to retire or are forced to retire,” said Professor Teresa Ghilarducci, a labor economist at the New School and leading expert on retirement security. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would equip millions of low- and moderate-income workers to build a nest egg for themselves and for future generations, leading to a stronger economy for all Americans in the process.” “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would provide millions of workers with an easy-to-use, flexible and portable gateway to enhancing their retirement security. If enacted, we believe the legislation would help level the playing field for small businesses, including local franchises, that are unable to offer the same retirement plans as large competitors. IFA and its members thank Sen. Hickenlooper, Sen. Tillis, Rep. Smucker and Rep. Sewell for their continued leadership on this critical issue.” - Michael Layman, Senior Vice President, Government Relations & Public Affairs, International Franchise Association “Too many Americans today endeavor under a retirement framework that fails to accommodate the diverse types of work available in our 21st century economy. Portable benefits, like those envisioned by Flex’s principles for app-based workers, are a key part of the solution,"" said Kristin Sharp, CEO of the Flex Association. ""This bill would represent a significant step toward providing millions with portable benefits that are tied not to a particular company but to the work that so many Americans do every day. We thank Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Sewell and Smucker for their bipartisan leadership on this issue that is crucial to the future of work.” The U.S. Conference of Mayors adopted a bipartisan resolution in 2023 calling on Congress to strengthen retirement security for low- and middle-income workers, and specifically urging that they “consider establishing a TSP-type program for workers who lack access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, including matching federal incentives to low- and middle-income workers, as a way to promote asset ownership and retirement security, reward work and savings, and improve the well-being of millions of hard-working Americans.” “With more Americans choosing new ways to work than ever before, we’re proud to support this bipartisan effort to enable more workers in the modern economy to access the kinds of benefits that have long been out of reach for all but full-time employees. This is an important step toward empowering workers like Dashers to choose the independence and flexibility that dashing gives them, while still having access to important benefits,” said Max Rettig, Vice President, Public Policy at DoorDash. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act makes meaningful progress toward expanding access for retirement savings across the country–regardless of how someone chooses to work. We applaud Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Sewell and Smucker for working across the aisle to address such an important issue for Dashers and other Americans who are choosing new and different ways to work.” ""Uber supports innovative efforts such as the Retirement Savings for Americans Act to enhance independent work across the nation. The legislation represents a unique, forward-looking approach to addressing gaps in the existing retirement savings framework. We applaud the Congressional sponsors and look forward to our continued engagement as this bill moves forward."" - CR Wooters, Head of Federal Affairs, Uber “After a long career, we all dream of the option to retire – to spend time with friends and family, volunteer in our community or learn a new hobby,” said Katelyn Gibert, Policy Director for Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Voices. “Yet, for many small business owners, the cost of being able to provide retirement plans and other benefits to their employees is prohibitively high and most say they only expect it to climb higher. It is time to explore innovative policy solutions—like the bipartisan Retirement Savings for Americans Act—to this persistent challenge that makes it difficult for small businesses to compete with large corporations and keeps many of their employees from being able to save for a well-deserved retirement.” ""Achieving financial security in the short and long-term has never been more important for individuals and families. Therefore, small business owners and their employees welcome innovative initiatives and policy ideas that build upon the efficacy of existing models and administrative infrastructure to increase options and participation. SBE Council appreciates the bipartisan work and efforts behind the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, which provides a unique framework for bolstering the participation of workers who do not have employer sponsored retirement accounts. Moreover, the opportunity for independent contractors to participate in these plans is an appealing feature, as the legislation protects their independent status, which is highly valued by this critical self-employed sector. As the legislation moves forward, SBE Council looks forward to working with the sponsors and other members of Congress to bring additional feedback from entrepreneurs and small business owners about various aspects of the bill to help many more individuals and families attain financial security.” – Karen Kerrigan, president & CEO, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council “We thank Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Smucker and Sewell for continuing to work together to elevate the conversation of retirement savings, yet again proving this is and must be a bipartisan issue.” – Michele Stockwell, President, BPC Action",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/thompson-courtney-introduce-legislation-improve-rehab-therapy-medicare,"Thompson, Courtney Introduce Legislation to Improve Rehab Therapy for Medicare Patients",2023-10-26,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Glenn Thompson,T000467,thompson.house.gov,thompson,https://thompson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (PA-15) and Joe Courtney (CT-02) introduced the bipartisan Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act. This legislation expands access to skilled rehabilitation therapies for Medicare patients and provides American seniors with patient-centered, well rounded treatment options. ""As a former Rehabilitation Services Manager and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, I was honored to work with patients facing life-changing disease and disability for nearly three decades. The effectiveness of care involves the proper mix, frequency and intensity of medically necessary physician prescribed therapy,” Rep. Thompson said. “I am pleased to reintroduce bipartisan legislation that will ensure Medicare empowers physicians to fully exercise their medical judgment and therapy professionals to deliver the best possible care for patients recovering from accidents or illness.” “This bill would make a small but important change to Medicare to ensure that patients recovering from an injury or disabling event can receive the types of rehab that their care team recommends. The current “intensity of therapy” requirement does not support the range of therapies – such as respiratory therapy or recreational therapy – that patients may need to recover from an injury of serious medical event. It’s crucial that these patients have access to the treatment that their care team recommends, and I’m glad to work with Rep. GT Thompson to introduce this legislation to ensure Medicare better supports patient recovery,” Rep. Courtney said. “Providing access to a broad mix of skilled, intensive rehabilitation therapies is a hallmark of the specialized care provided in inpatient rehabilitation hospitals. Our rehabilitation physicians, therapists, and care teams tirelessly work to ensure that each patient gets the right care for their individual needs at the right time. This legislation will help us provide that full spectrum of care for the patients we serve, and we are proud to support Congressman Thompson and Congressman Courtney in their much-needed efforts.” – Anthony Cuzzola, Board Chair of the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association (AMRPA) “When led by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, inpatient rehabilitation care offers patients an essential and vital care plan to meet their rehabilitation needs. Thank you to Representatives Thompson and Courtney for reintroducing the Access to Inpatient Rehabilitation Therapy Act to ensure that all inpatient rehabilitation facility patients can continue to benefit from the breadth of services that are critically important for patient care.” –Steven Flanagan, MD, FAAPMR, President of the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation “The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) is pleased to support this vital legislation being introduced today by Representatives Thompson and Courtney. Providing physicians with the ability to prescribe treatments such as recreational therapy when it is medically necessary is an important step forward in enhanced patient care. The inclusion of active treatment such as recreational therapy will only help patients and families get the best care they need and aid them in their recovery. ATRA is committed to supporting this legislation and will continue to work with all members of Congress to ensure access to quality healthcare."" – Brent Wolfe, Executive Director of American Therapeutic RecreationAssociation (ATRA) “Inpatient rehabilitation facilities provide care that is critically important for people with complex medical and therapeutic needs. No other setting offers the multi-disciplinary care they provide: Physicians, nurses, and therapists working together in dedicated teams. Fortunately, this bill recognizes the importance of this unique care and supports coverage for Medicare beneficiaries who desperately need it.” – Judy Stein, Executive Director of Center for Medicare Advocacy “No two brain injuries are alike, and allowing physicians to determine the appropriate mix of skilled services within inpatient rehabilitation facilities is critical to providing the individualized and comprehensive treatment necessary for a person with as complex a condition as brain injury. The Brain Injury Association of America supports this bill as it would ensure that patients have access to these best practices of rehabilitation therapy.” – Rick Willis, President and CEO of the Brain Injury Association of America Additional Supporting Organizations: Allies for Independence, ALS Association, American Association on Health and Disability, American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, American Music Therapy Association, American Spinal Injury Association, Amputee Coalition, Association of Academic Physiatrists, Association of Rehabilitation Nurses, Association of University Centers on Disabilities, Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), Epilepsy Foundation Falling Forward Foundation, Lakeshore Foundation, National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics, National Association of Rehabilitation Providers and Agencies, National Association of State Head Injury Administrators, National Association of Social Workers (NASW), National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), RESNA, Spina Bifida Association, United Cerebral Palsy, United Spinal Association ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-backs-rep-mike-johnson-speaker-house,Rep. Kelly backs Rep. Mike Johnson for Speaker of the House,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,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 support of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) for Speaker of the House during a vote in the House on Wednesday. ""Mike Johnson has become a leading conservative voice in the House Republican Conference. I'm ready to work with Mr. Johnson to grow our economy, secure our border, and make America energy independent once again,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""This is about America. It’s time to unite and get back to work.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-passes-kelly-backed-resolution-supporting-israel,U.S. House passes Kelly-backed resolution supporting Israel,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In their first vote since the election of Speaker Mike Johnson, today, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) and the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution condemning the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization. Kelly first co-sponsored the resolution earlier this month. ""Let's be clear: the United States must stand with Israel,"" said Rep. Kelly. ""Our strongest ally in the Middle East is under attack by Hamas terrorists. I condemn these senseless and unprecedented attacks. This vote shows the U.S. House of Representatives supports Israel's right to protect and defend itself and its people in this war."" The resolution passed by a vote of 412 to 10, with 6 members voting present.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-meuser-discusses-combatting-iran,"Rep, Meuser Discusses Combatting Iran",2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Daniel Meuser,M001204,meuser.house.gov,meuser,https://meuser.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Iran is the number one state sponsor of terrorism in the world, yet the Biden Administration has an inexplicable affection for the Iranian regime. The Iranians provided Hamas weapons and funding, making them directly culpable for the barbaric attack on Israel. The solution to combating Iran is right in front of us, but the Biden Administration instead pushes policies that finance the terrorist state. The best way to stop Iran in its tracks is to go after their money and their oil. That’s why I introduced the Freezing HAMAS Act, which would re-freeze the $6 billion that was released by the Biden Administration to Iran and prohibit the President from lifting any further sanctions. I also plan to introduce the NO OIL for Terrorists Act, which would reimpose Trump-era sanctions on Iranian oil that the Biden Administration lifted. Since these sanctions were lifted, Iran went from producing 400,000 barrels of oil a day to 3 million barrels of oil a day, allowing the Iranian regime to boost its economic standing drastically. In 2020, Iran had $4 billion in financial reserves, today, they have $70 billion in financial reserves – giving them a greater ability to fund terrorism and destruction. My bills will cut off Iran’s revenue streams and hinder its terrorist activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-congratulates-speaker-mike-johnson,Reschenthaler Congratulates Speaker Mike Johnson,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) released the following statement regarding today’s Speaker election: “Mike Johnson has been a uniting voice in our conference since his first day in office, standing up for core Republican principles and spearheading our conservative causes. I got to know Mike well from our days serving on the House Judiciary Committee together, seeing firsthand the tenacity and unrivaled work ethic he brings to Congress. I congratulate him on becoming the 56th Speaker of the House and look forward to delivering results under his selfless leadership for the American people.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases/reschenthaler-supports-resolution-standing-with-israel,Reschenthaler Supports Resolution Standing with Israel,2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Guy Reschenthaler,R000610,reschenthaler.house.gov,reschenthaler,https://reschenthaler.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) issued the following statement regarding the passage of H. Res. 771, a resolution in support of Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists: “Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on the nation of Israel was humanity at its very worst — beheading babies, raping women, and gunning down families. I am proud to stand with my House colleagues in support of our strongest ally in the Middle East, Israel, and against the pure evil displayed earlier this month. The United States must unequivocally condemn these atrocities, recognize Israel's right to defend itself, and provide all necessary support to defeat terrorism. This war is an existential fight between good and evil. The world is watching, and our nation must rise to the occasion.” Read the full House resolution here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases/smucker-sewell-hickenlooper-tillis-reintroduce-bill-help-americans-save,"Smucker, Sewell, Hickenlooper, Tillis, Reintroduce Bill to Help Americans Save for Retirement",2023-10-25,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Lloyd Smucker,S001199,smucker.house.gov,smucker,https://smucker.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Representatives Lloyd Smucker and Terri Sewell and U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Thom Tillis introduced the Retirement Savings for Americans Act (RSAA), legislation to help low- and middle-income Americans build wealth and save for retirement. The bill would establish a new program that gives eligible workers access to portable, tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts. If passed, the RSAA would allow the federal government to match contributions for low- and middle-income workers, with the match beginning to phase out at median income. “Too many hard-working Americans are not able to prepare financially for retirement. Over half of working employees lack access to the tax-advantaged retirement benefits that many higher-income earners take advantage of to save. Additionally, as the workforce continues to innovate and more Americans become categorized as “gig workers,” the reliance on traditional employer-sponsored plans causes too many workers to slip through the cracks. Hard-working Americans deserve a modern pathway to find financial security in their retirement. I am proud to join in this bipartisan and bicameral effort to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act, to help millions of Americans save for their retirements. I will continue to advocate for policies which help hard workers live their American Dream, including a well-earned and financially stable retirement,” said Smucker. “Every Alabamian and every American should be able to retire with dignity after a lifetime of work,” said Sewell. “Democrats and Republicans alike recognize the urgent need for Congress to address the gaps in our retirement system and make it easier for low- and middle-income workers to save for retirement. I am proud to once again work with my House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance the Retirement Savings for Americans Act which would level the playing field for working families and build a stronger economy for all Americans.” “Americans who work hard their entire lives deserve to retire with dignity,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill helps low-income workers enjoy a secure retirement and fulfill their American dream.’’ “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 Tillis. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act tackles this real problem by establishing a pathway for savings for Americans lacking retirement options.” The RSAA comes during National Retirement Security Week, a week dedicated to raising awareness about the crisis in retirement savings. A study by the National Council on Aging found that 80% of aging Americans are struggling financially or are at risk of financial insecurity, and therefore, not prepared to retire. In a new ranking of the world’s retirement systems, the U.S. scored a C+, mainly because the current system works well for white collar workers but fails gig workers and blue collar workers. If trends continue, inadequate retirement savings will cost state and federal governments a combined $1.3 trillion in increased spending by 2040. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act 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. View quotes of support HERE and a one-page explainer of the bill HERE. Full text of the bill is available HERE. “With more Americans choosing new ways to work than ever before, we’re proud to support this bipartisan effort to enable more workers in the modern economy to access the kinds of benefits that have long been out of reach for all but full-time employees. This is an important step toward empowering workers like Dashers to choose the independence and flexibility that dashing gives them, while still having access to important benefits,” said Max Rettig, Vice President, Public Policy at DoorDash. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act makes meaningful progress toward expanding access for retirement savings across the country–regardless of how someone chooses to work. We applaud Senators Hickenlooper and Tillis and Representatives Sewell and Smucker for working across the aisle to address such an important issue for Dashers and other Americans who are choosing new and different ways to work.” “Uber supports innovative efforts such as the Retirement Savings for Americans Act to enhance independent work across the nation. The legislation represents a unique, forward-looking approach to addressing gaps in the existing retirement savings framework. We applaud the Congressional sponsors and look forward to our continued engagement as this bill moves forward,” said CR Wooters, Head of Federal Affairs at Uber. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would address significant and longstanding gaps in the U.S. retirement system that have severely limited participation from low- and moderate-income workers. If enacted, this legislation would result in a healthier retirement system, a more financially 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 Smucker and Sewell on this important legislation, and we applaud them for their bipartisan leadership on behalf of workers nationwide,” said EIG President and CEO John Lettieri. “Lawmakers today are searching for bold ideas to support and empower American workers—and especially low-income workers. The Retirement Savings for Americans Act is just such an idea,” said Kevin Hassett, Distinguished Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution and former Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers. “This legislation would put millions of American families on the path to financial security and help them build intergenerational wealth.” “Too many working Americans are struggling to save and invest to secure their standard of living when they choose to retire or are forced to retire,”said Professor Teresa Ghilarducci, a labor economist at the New School and leading expert on retirement security. “The Retirement Savings for Americans Act would equip millions of low- and moderate-income workers to build a nest egg for themselves and for future generations, leading to a stronger economy for all Americans in the process.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kelly-co-sponsors-house-resolution-condemning-biden-administration-leaving,Rep. Kelly co-sponsors House resolution condemning Biden administration for leaving Americans stranded in Israel,2023-10-24,2023,2023-10,Republican,House,PA,Mike Kelly,K000376,kelly.house.gov,kelly,https://kelly.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Last week, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), together with Reps. Cory Mills (R-FL), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), and Byron Donalds (R-FL) introduced a resolution condemning the Biden Administration for failing to fulfill the United States Government’s duty to American citizens left stranded in Israel. On October 8, 2023, Israel declared war on Hamas, resulting in airlines canceling flights departing from Israel and leaving American citizens with extremely limited options to evacuate from the ongoing conflict. Until October 13, 2023, the Department of State refused to provide meaningful resources to help United States citizens evacuate from Israel despite widespread violence and danger. You can read the full resolution here. ""First in Afghanistan and then in Ukraine, the Biden administration has once again displayed they did not have a proper plan to return Americans who were stuck in Israel once the war began,"" Rep. Kelly said. ""Thanks to the sacrifice and bravery of Congressman Mills and his staff, over 100 Americans have escaped Israel and are returning home. I want to personally commend him and his team for their incredible work during such extraordinary times. We should never leave an American behind."" “While the Biden Administration is quick to use taxpayer dollars to provide free housing to illegal immigrants entering the United States, they show time and time again they do not care about the wellbeing of American citizens stranded abroad during times of violent conflict he helped create through bad foreign policy,” said Rep. Mills. “Since Joe Biden refused to do the job he was elected to do, I traveled to Israel and did it for him. As an elected official, I knew I could not sit idly by and watch the Biden Administration leave Americans behind like he did during the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal where I had to step up the first time to rescue Americans. I’m honored to have been able to help evacuate over 100 Americans so far who were stranded in Israel during the ongoing war. While my mission of helping rescue Americans is far from over, I’m proud to lead the effort alongside Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) and Rep. Byron Donalds (FL-19) to condemn the Biden Administration for their dereliction of duty to ensure the safety of American citizens abroad.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-08T00:49:26Z