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://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-announces-mobile-office-hours-january,Congressman Kustoff Announces Mobile Office Hours for January,2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) announced mobile office hours for the month of January. Mobile office hours will be held on Tuesday, January 7, and Thursday, January 9. “Mobile office hours are a good way for constituents to connect with our office and let us know how we can continue to best represent Tennessee’s Eighth Congressional District in Washington,” said Congressman Kustoff. “If you need assistance with a federal agency such as the Small Business Administration, Social Security Administration, or the Department of Veterans Affairs, I encourage you to visit our mobile office sites across West Tennessee.” Tuesday, January 7 Lauderdale — 9:00am - 11:00am Lauderdale County Courthouse 100 Court Square Ripley, TN 38063 Tipton — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Covington City Hall 200 W. Washington Ave Covington, TN 38019 Henry — 9:00am - 11:00am Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce 2508 E Wood St Paris, TN 38242 Henderson — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Henderson County Court House 17 Monroe Ave Lexington, TN 38351 Chester — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Henderson City Hall 121 Crook Ave Henderson, TN 38340 Crockett — 9:00am – 11:00am Crockett County Chamber 25 N Bells St. Alamo, TN 38001 Haywood — 1:00pm – 3:00pm Brownsville City Hall 15 E Main St. Brownsville, TN 38012 Thursday, January 9 Fayette — 9:00am - 11:00am Fayette County Chamber of Commerce 120 E Court Square Unit 101 Somerville, TN 38068 Hardeman — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Hardeman County Courthouse 100 N Main St Bolivar, TN 38008 Carroll — 9:00am - 11:00 am Town of Huntingdon City Hall 19810 E Main St Huntingdon, TN 38344 Gibson — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Milan City Hall 1061 S Main St Milan, TN 38358 McNairy — 9:00am - 11:00am McNairy County Court House 170 Court Ave Selmer, TN 38375 Hardin — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Tennessee River Museum 495 Main St Savannah, TN 38372 Lake — 9:00am - 11:00am Lake County Courthouse 116 S Court St Tiptonville, TN 38079 Obion — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Obion County Mayor’s Office 316 S Third St Union City, TN 38261 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/human-trafficking/blackburn-cornyn-klobuchar-colleagues-bill-to-improve-investigations-of-online-child-exploitation-signed-into-law,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Klobuchar, Colleagues’ Bill to Improve Investigations of Online Child Exploitation Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statements after their Project Safe Childhood Act, which would make improvements to the investigation and prosecution of online child exploitation, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act: “It is our duty to protect the most innocent among us: our nation’s children,” said Senator Blackburn. “Kids need more protections in this rapidly increasing digital age, and the Project Safe Childhood Act will modernize how we investigate and prosecute online child predators by giving state and local law enforcement the federal support and training they need.” “No child should be exposed to vicious threats from online predators,” said Senator Cornyn. “This law will make key strategic improvements to give law enforcement officers and federal prosecutors the tools to go after online child predators and ensure more children are shielded from this horrific crime.” “We must do everything we can to protect our children from online exploitation and abuse,” said Senator Klobuchar. “By modernizing the Project Safe Childhood program, our bipartisan legislation will ensure that law enforcement has the tools and resources it needs to rescue victims and prosecute those who commit these terrible crimes.” “Too many young lives have been lost or destroyed by online sexual abuse,” said Senator Grassley. “By empowering local law enforcement and federal prosecutors to take down online predators, we can protect vulnerable kids and bring criminals to justice.” “The Project Safe Childhood Act takes a major step forward in the fight to protect children from the horrendous crime of online sexual exploitation,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Safeguarding our nation’s children from such abhorrent abuse is urgent and imperative, and this critical legislation empowers law enforcement to combat these serious dangers and hold predators accountable. I’ve long championed efforts to better protect children in an increasingly online society, and I look forward to swift action from the President.” Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-introduces-grown-america-act-2024,Congressman Kustoff Introduces Grown in America Act of 2024,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) recently introduced H.R. 10494, the Grown in America Act of 2024, in the House of Representatives with original cosponsors Reps. Jim Costa (D-CA), David Rouzer (R-NC), Mike Carey (R-OH), and Mark Alford (R-MO). This bipartisan legislation will create a federal tax credit to help businesses shift away from foreign markets and purchase more agricultural commodities here in the U.S. ""A strong and resilient agriculture and food sector is vital to America’s economy and national security,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""It is imperative we support our famers here at home and ensure they are not losing out to foreign competitors. That is why I introduced the Grown in America Act of 2024. Incentivizing businesses to purchase from American farmers will help strengthen our supply chains, stimulate domestic investment and job creation, and reduce our over-reliance on foreign markets."" ""Our legislation is a win for American farmers, producers, dairymen, and women, especially those in the San Joaquin Valley, by lowering costs and boosting domestic manufacturing,” said Congressman Costa. “By offering tax credits for manufacturers who purchase U.S.-grown agricultural products, it strengthens supply chains and supports farmers who are price takers, not price makers. This vital step ensures American agriculture remains competitive, helping both farmers and manufacturers thrive in the global economy."" “American goods should be made with American products. The Grown in America Act supports our farmers and ranchers while helping America First companies continue to compete against cheaper imported products. Bolstering the use of American agriculture products builds a more resilient supply chain for our manufacturing base while providing new and expanded markets for our producers,"" said Congressman Rouzer. “Missouri’s farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our economy and our communities. The Grown in America Act prioritizes domestically grown and sourced agricultural products by incentivizing business to buy American. Through this we will strengthen markets for our agricultural producers and promote domestic investment to secure our U.S. food supply chain. I’m proud to support this legislation along with my other colleagues and look forward to getting it across the finish line,” said Congressman Alford. The Grown in America Act of 2024 was endorsed by the Tennessee Farm Bureau and the Ag Investment for America Coalition. “Tennessee Farm Bureau is proud to endorse the Grown in America Act of 2024,” said Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation President Eric Mayberry. “It is vital we establish tax policy which promotes domestic agriculture and the farm processing industry. Food security is national security, and Americans desire local food. This act will help secure these objectives.” “Our broad coalition of American manufacturers and growers supports the Grown in America Act, a bipartisan proposal to encourage U.S. manufacturers to source more agricultural products from U.S. farmers,” said a spokesperson for Ag Investment for America. “This new incentive for purchasing American-grown crops would benefit the U.S. economy, increase supply chain stability, and encourage domestic job growth. Now is the time to incentivize domestic investment and support American farmers and manufacturers.” Background: Current geopolitical tensions with China, along with supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the vulnerability of U.S. food supply chains and the agricultural sector’s exposure to foreign markets. Maintaining America’s status as the global economic powerhouse depends in part on our ability to protect critical domestic industries and fortify our supply chains. The Grown in America Act of 2024 will incentivize businesses to purchase agricultural commodities from U.S. farmers, instead of importing them from overseas. Specifically, this legislation creates a tax credit to qualifying businesses for purchasing agricultural commodities sourced from American growers: Qualifying businesses include those using agricultural inputs to create products intended for human consumption. Businesses must source a certain percentage of their agricultural products from domestic growers to be eligible for the credit. The eligibility threshold (the percentage of agriculture products a business must source domestically) begins at 50% in year one and increases by 5% annually over an eight-year period until it reaches 85%. The eligibility threshold(s) are based on a three-year rolling average to address potential, unavoidable market disruptions. The credit is calculated as 25 percent multiplied by the ratio of US to non-US agriculture purchases. Click here to read the full text of the bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/video-blackburn-hassan-introduce-improving-travel-for-families-act,"VIDEO: Blackburn, Hassan Introduce Improving Travel for Families Act",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Ahead of Christmas travel, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video announcing the introduction of her Improving Travel for Families Act with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) to allow young children to accompany their parents through Global Entry. This will provide flexibility to help families traveling internationally with children. “One of the important things that we do is solve problems that Tennesseans let us know about, and that is something that we are working on with a new piece of legislation. We’ve heard from so many of our families that are stationed overseas that using the Global Entry program can really be very helpful. However, when they are traveling with young children – even newborns – those children are not allowed to go through that process, so I am filing the Improving Travel for Families Act. It will make it easier for parents with children that are under the age of 10 to have them go through global entry with them.” – Senator Blackburn Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn discussing the Improving Travel for Families Act. BACKGROUND: In fiscal year 2023, over 10 million individuals were members of Global Entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s program allowing pre-approved, low-risk travelers to go through expedited customs and passport control when arriving in the United States. These streamlined processes are incredibly important for the traveling public—especially as air travel returns to pre-pandemic levels—with the number of travelers arriving by air into the country increasing by 6.1% from August 2023 to August 2024. But Global Entry, specifically its redundant and bureaucratic processes, isn’t well-suited for family travel. While Transportation Security Administration PreCheck has adopted measures to allow children to join their parents in the fast lanes, the Global Entry Program has fallen behind and does not allow small children to travel in the Global Entry lanes if those children are not enrolled in the program—even if the child is an infant. IMPROVING TRAVEL FOR FAMILIES ACT: The Improving Travel for Families Act would: Allow children under the age of 11 who are not a member of Global Entry to go through the Global Entry lanes with their parent or legal guardian who is enrolled in the program; and",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-fleischmann-statement-on-government-funding,Chairman Fleischmann Statement on Government Funding,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Tennesseans and Americans deserve a government that functions properly and is open. Democracy and representative government can be messy at times, but when we debate and air our differences openly and honestly, the end result is always the best for the American People. Throughout this week, I have been involved in negotiations with my colleagues to keep our government open and provide essential aid for our farmers and Tennesseans affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. I am glad that we passed a reasonable, responsible bill that delivers for the American People. Now it's time for the Senate to follow the House's lead and pass our bill.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/crime/blackburn-ossoff-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff-passes-senate,"Blackburn, Ossoff Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Passes Senate",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the Senate passed the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates: “Last year, nearly half of surveyed Bureau of Prisons staff stated they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by an inmate. This statistic is appalling and unacceptable. No federal employee or law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work, and I’m pleased to see the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act move one step closer to becoming law,” said Senator Blackburn. “I remain focused on oversight of the Federal prison system and ending sexual abuse in prisons and jails, including the abuse of prison staff. Senator Blackburn and I brought Republicans and Democrats together to pass this bipartisan bill to help end sexual abuse in Federal prisons,” said Senator Ossoff. BACKGROUND: According to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate. The 2023 report found that the BOP has inadequate data on inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and has not been able to fully ascertain the scope of this widespread problem. The report also made a number of significant recommendations for the BOP to implement to help the agency better understand and mitigate this nationwide problem. At United States Penitentiary Thomson (USP Thomson) in Illinois, the American Federation of Government Employees reported that there had been over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in 2022 alone. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates. This report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggest that BOP’s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees. THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT: The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act would require: The BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General’s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and fully ascertaining the scope of the problem; The DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and The U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national standards for prevention, reduction, and punishment of sexual assault and harassment of BOP staff by inmates. Senators Blackburn and Ossoff sent a letter to BOP Director Colette Peters requesting that BOP release information about inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment reporting procedures, correctional methods, and staff assistance programs. Council of Prison Locals 33 National President Brandy Moore White wrote a letter expressing support for this legislation. RELATED: Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Blackburn, Ossoff Launch Inquiry to Protect Federal Prison Staff from Sexual Assault and Harassment Click herefor bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-bennet-tillis-coons-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-domestic-semiconductor-supply-chains,"Blackburn, Bennet, Tillis, Coons Introduce Bill to Strengthen Domestic Semiconductor Supply Chains",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced the Strengthening Essential Manufacturing and Industrial (SEMI) Investment Act to expand tax incentives for semiconductor facilities to include upstream materials suppliers. This would help protect U.S. defense supply chains by supporting domestic investment and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China. “Over the past few years, Communist China has dramatically ramped up its production of semiconductors, which power everything from cell phones to computers to trains,”said Senator Blackburn. “By expanding tax incentives for semiconductor facilities, the SEMI Investment Act would support investment right here at home and increase supply chain security.” “The CHIPS and Science Act revitalized advanced domestic manufacturing and restored funding for cutting-edge research and development. But without sustained investment across the semiconductor supply chain, we risk undermining these important efforts,” said Senator Bennet. “The Strengthening Essential Manufacturing and Industrial Investment Act (SEMI) Investment Act will secure our supply chains and ensure companies across the semiconductor ecosystem are able to invest in and expand U.S. production.” “Congress passed the CHIPS Act to support our entire domestic semiconductor supply chain,” said Senator Tillis. “It is crucial for our national security and economic resilience that we get this policy right and I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to ensure we reduce our reliance on our adversaries like China.” “Semiconductors drive everything from smartphones to medical devices to automobiles, and countries that excel at manufacturing them will be stronger and more secure in the decades ahead,” said Senator Coons. “Expanding the semiconductor manufacturing investment tax credit—established by President Biden’s CHIPS and Science Act—will strengthen our semiconductor supply chain and advance us toward that goal.” BACKGROUND: Fueled by massive government subsidies, China’s state-controlled companies now dominate nearly 85% of global processing capacity for rare earth minerals used in semiconductor manufacturing. Earlier this month, China imposed new export bans on rare earth materials like gallium, germanium, and antimony, which are key to semiconductor production. Under current law, tax incentives are only available for facilities that directly produce semiconductors or manufacturing equipment. However, much of the upstream materials and components used in these facilities are sourced from China, leaving our critical supply chains vulnerable and heavily reliant on foreign adversaries. SEMI INVESTMENT ACT: To safeguard national security and counter China’s growing dominance in the semiconductor sector, the SEMI Investment Act would foster the development of a robust U.S.-based supply chain by expanding the tax credit to include upstream materials suppliers. Expanding incentives to include upstream production would also bolster American innovation, create jobs, and ensure the resilience of this vital industry. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-marshall-introduce-bill-to-reduce-tax-burden-on-social-security-benefits-for-seniors,"Blackburn, Marshall Introduce Bill to Reduce Tax Burden on Social Security Benefits for Seniors",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes (RETIREES FIRST) Act to lower the tax burden on Social Security benefits for seniors. “Retirees across the country depend on Social Security, especially after enduring the record-high inflation of the last four years,” said Senator Blackburn. “This bill would cut taxes on seniors’ benefits, helping them keep more of their hard-earned money.” “President Trump promised to protect Social Security and deliver relief to senior citizens by cutting taxes on these benefits. This simple action will put more money in seniors' pockets, correct a fundamental flaw in our tax system, and support President Trump’s economic agenda and a promise made to the American people: No Tax on Social Security,” said Senator Marshall. BACKGROUND: Historically, Social Security benefits were entirely exempt from the federal income tax, reflecting the understanding that these benefits were funded by workers’ own earnings. In 1983, Congress passed legislation that taxed benefits for higher-income retirees to strengthen program solvency. However, the measure was only intended to impact a small portion of households. Current exemption thresholds—$25,000 for single filers and $32,000 for married filers—have not been adjusted for inflation since their creation, causing “bracket creep” that increasingly taxes middle-income retirees. Today, nearly 56% of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits, compared to less than 10% in 1984, with this figure projected to rise further. Many retirees rely on Social Security as their primary source of income, but the added tax burden reduces their quality of life, especially as inflation erodes the value of their benefits. RETIREES FIRST ACT: This RETIREES FIRST Act would: Eliminate Taxes on Benefits for Most Retirees: Raise the provisional income threshold to $34,000 for single filers and $68,000 for married filers, exempting most middle-class retirees from paying taxes on their Social Security benefits. Keep Exemptions Aligned with Rising Costs: Ensure the new thresholds are updated annually to prevent bracket creep, preserving the value of exemptions and shielding retirees from inflation’s impact. Simplify Tax Rules and Eliminate the Marriage Penalty: Maintain a single 85% inclusion rate for benefits exceeding the new thresholds, simplifying the filing process and reducing confusion for seniors. Additionally, the bill would eliminate the substantial tax penalty currently imposed on married retirees who both receive benefits. Protect Long-Term Solvency by Cutting Bureaucratic Waste: Redirect funds from inefficient government spending in the non-defense, non-veterans, non-homeland security discretionary appropriations accounts to offset revenue reductions, safeguarding the Social Security and Medicare trust funds while prioritizing retirees. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/military/blackburn-secures-tennessee-priorities-in-2025-national-defense-bill,Blackburn Secures Tennessee Priorities in 2025 National Defense Bill,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after securing vital wins for Tennessee in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the Senate yesterday and will soon be signed into law: “In the face of formidable threats from Communist China, Iran, and Russia, this year’s national defense bill will help safeguard U.S. national security and support our men and women in uniform,” said Senator Blackburn. “Tennessee is home to tens of thousands of active-duty servicemembers, and this legislation will enhance their defense capabilities, support the development of new technology, and strengthen cybersecurity efforts in the Volunteer State.” KEY TENNESSEE PRIORITIES: Support the Pathfinder Program, which is developing technological solutions for real-world Army challenges at Vanderbilt University and in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Support the development of advanced materials for hypersonic vehicles, including at Arnold Air Force Base and the University of Tennessee Space Institute Support modernization efforts at production and support facilities, including at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant Continue to support the construction of the Uranium Processing Facility at the Y-12 National Security Complex Support Unmanned Arial Systems (UAS) test capabilities, unmanned underwater vehicle experiments, and other research projects, including through the partnership between the University of Memphis and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division on President’s Island in Memphis, Tennessee Support advanced materials manufacturing research, including ongoing research between the University of Tennessee, Knoxville,Army Research Lab, andOak Ridge National Laboratory Support the Nonproliferation Stewardship Program (NSP), creating a workforce of nuclear subject matter experts through Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Y-12 National Security Complex Support the classified additive manufacturing partnership between the Air Force Research Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory for future Air Force assets, including at Arnold Air Force Base Support cybersecurity for autonomous vehicles research, including at Tennessee Tech University RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-announces-tennessee-priorities-in-water-resources-bill,Blackburn Announces Tennessee Priorities in Water Resources Bill,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after securing important projects for Tennessee in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act, which passed the Senate this week and will soon be signed into law: “Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene across East Tennessee, rebuilding our communities and reassessing flood risk is extremely important across the entire state,” said Senator Blackburn. “This year’s Water Resources Development Act will allow the dredging and maintenance of Pidgeon Harbor in Memphis, enabling the continued growth of the industrial area and supporting the city as the Logistics Hub of America. It will also improve our state’s flood risk management to help us better respond to future natural disasters and strengthen wastewater infrastructure to support the development of Blue Oval City.” KEY TENNESSEE PRIORITIES: Authorization of federal maintenance and dredging of Pidgeon Harbor navigation channel in Memphis Feasibility study for flood risk management in Nashville Feasibility study for water supply support, including evaluation of Nolichucky River capabilities in Greene County Expedited completion of the Kentucky Lock and Dam navigation project $35 million for wastewater infrastructure and water supply infrastructure in Tipton County $50 million for water and wastewater infrastructure in Tipton, Haywood, and Fayette Counties Mandated coordination with stakeholders to address the dredging needs of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in Mississippi and Alabama",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/women/senators-blackburn-and-gillibrand-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-remove-the-tax-penalty-on-settlements-awards-and-judgments-paid-to-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment,"Senators Blackburn And Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Remove The Tax Penalty On Settlements, Awards, And Judgments Paid To Survivors Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would remove the federal tax penalty on settlements, awards, and judgments paid to survivors of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Current law exempts payments for damages due to physical and emotional injuries from physical injury cases from taxation. However, payments from sexual harassment and sexual assault lawsuits are taxed as income unless the survivor can prove that they received physical injuries, such as broken bones or bruises, during the incident. This can cause uncertainty in some cases regarding whether settlements from sexual assault or sexual harassment cases are taxed or not, causing additional anxiety for survivors. “Survivors of sexual assault and sexual harassment should not be forced to pay taxes on compensation they receive as a result of the crime,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act would ensure these courageous survivors do not have to bear the cost of unjust financial penalties.” “It is unacceptable to force survivors of sexual assault and harassment to pay taxes on the compensation they rightfully deserve,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act is commonsense legislation that will eliminate this tax burden, allowing survivors to focus on healing in the wake of their trauma. I am proud to introduce this legislation, and I will continue fighting to ensure that survivors of sexual assault and harassment are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.” Blackburn and Gillibrand’s introduction of the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act follows the introduction of the same legislation in the House of Representatives by Reps. Lois Frankel (D-Fla.) and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) in August. The bill is endorsed by the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence and Lift Our Voices. “Survivors of sexual harassment and assault deserve fair treatment under the law,” said Representative Frankel. “It is unacceptable for a woman who has been raped, who endures immense pain and trauma, or who had to quit her job to escape harassment, to face further tax burdens on the compensation she rightfully deserves. This bill ensures survivors receive equal treatment regarding their payments.” “Survivors of assault have already endured the unimaginable; they should not face tax penalties on monetary settlements obtained in their pursuit of justice. This commonsense bill closes an unfair loophole in our tax code by exempting settlements and judgments from sexual harassment or assault claims from income taxes, aligning the tax treatment of these settlements with physical injury settlements and ensuring survivors are not further penalized,” said Congresswoman Tenney.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-help-rescue-more-children-from-violence-by-recording-child-protective-services-interviews/6583f60b-5203-4a53-8e5e-6edfd577b4f2,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Help Rescue More Children from Violence by Recording Child Protective Services Interviews",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Generate Recordings of All Child protective Interviews Everywhere (GRACIE) Act, which would incentivize states to require the recording of all Child Protective Services (CPS) interviews with children and adults. Modernizing CPS interview protocols would increase the likelihood that child trafficking victims will be identified and removed from dangerous situations, including sex and labor trafficking, domestic violence, physical and emotional abuse, and other forms of violence. “Children are often silenced by their abusers, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure that does not happen,” said Senator Blackburn. “The GRACIE Act would help give more children a voice, increase domestic violence reporting, and strengthen the foster care system.” “We can never do enough to support vulnerable children in Georgia and across the country,” said Senator Ossoff. “Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this new bipartisan bill to strengthen transparency in State child protective agencies and help States better fund their operations.” BACKGROUND: In the U.S., 37.4% of children will be interviewed by CPS at some point in their childhood. These initial interviews can be traumatic, so we must do everything we can to ensure transparency and accountability during the process. CPS is the gateway to the foster care system, and approximately 60% of U.S. domestic child sex trafficking victims have engaged with the foster care system. Many of them undergo multiple interviews without one CPS staffer identifying them as child trafficking victims or removing them from real-time trafficking violence. CPS has a history of distorting the testimony of children who are trying to speak out about abuse and trafficking. As a result, children can remain in abusive and dangerous situations. CPS interview protocols are broken, and mandating all CPS interviews be recorded would be a good first step toward fixing this broken system. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has required recordings of all interrogations for nearly a decade, and state law enforcement departments often require police body cameras. Similar accountability measures are long overdue in the child protection space. It is imperative that federal and state legislation require at least audio recording–if not video recording, too–of all CPS interviews. THE GRACIE ACT: The GRACIE Act would create a grant program within the DOJ to award grants to states that require the recording of all CPS interviews with children and adults. This legislation includes provisions to protect the privacy and security of those recordings, so they are not shared with anyone outside of a law enforcement investigation. They would also only be retained for the amount of time needed to deal with the case. ENDORSEMENTS: This legislation is endorsed by Street Grace, No Trafficking Zones, Pearl at the Mailbox, The Foundation United, Rights for Girls, and 3Strands Global.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/national-security/blackburn-urges-dod-to-protect-u-s-airspace-national-security-following-ongoing-drone-sightings,Blackburn Urges DOD to Protect U.S. Airspace & National Security Following Ongoing Drone Sightings,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Lloyd Austin regarding the ongoing drone sightings across the Eastern United States over the past several weeks. In the letter, Senator Blackburn requested more information on the DOD’s assessments of the drone sightings, what counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems are currently deployed to address these threats, and how the DOD is coordinating with federal, state, and local authorities. Drone Sightings Appear to Be Part of Broader Foreign Surveillance Pattern of U.S. Activity “I write to urgently raise concerns regarding the ongoing drone sightings across the Eastern United States, which have been widely reported over the past several weeks. These incidents, which seem to involve clusters of drones appearing near critical infrastructure and sensitive areas, represent a growing threat to our national security that demands immediate and serious attention. The reports of drone activity appear to be part of a broader pattern of foreign surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts, including the 2023 Chinese spy balloon incident and the recent Chinese-backed Salt Typhoon hack targeting our telecommunications networks. These actions demonstrate a clear willingness from adversarial nations to utilize unconventional technologies to surveil, gather intelligence, and intimidate.” Blackburn Urges DOD to Take Clear and Immediate Action to Send a Strong Message to Any U.S. Adversaries Seeking to Undermine National Security “The persistence of credible sightings indicates a significant and evolving risk. The drone sightings across the East Coast should be viewed within this context as part of an ongoing, multidimensional threat to our national security. I strongly urge the Department of Defense to take all necessary steps – up to and including military action – to ensure the protection of our airspace and the security of the American people. A clear and immediate response will not only mitigate the current threat but also send a message to any foreign power seeking to undermine the security and safety of the United States.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-prevent-supply-chain-disruptions-protect-american-producers-pocketbooks-set-to-pass-in-end-of-year-package,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Prevent Supply Chain Disruptions, Protect American Producers & Pocketbooks, Set to Pass in End of Year Package",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Representatives Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), secured a package of provisions based on the bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act in the must-pass Continuing Resolution. The package authorizes the U.S. Department of Commerce to strengthen American supply chains for critical industries and emerging technologies by working with the private sector and other U.S. government partners to anticipate and prevent future supply chain disruptions before they happen. In the process, it will also identify opportunities to grow manufacturing capacity and jobs, and reduce costs for American consumers. “Strengthening supply chains is essential to ensuring that groceries, fuel, household products, and every other consumer product is accessible and affordable,” said Sen. Blackburn. “To achieve a strong, resilient, supply chain, we must have a coordinated, national strategy that decreases dependence on our adversaries, like Communist China, and leverages American ingenuity. By establishing a supply chain resiliency program at the Department of Commerce, the U.S. government can better coordinate with private sector partners, identify risks, and increase our competitiveness.” “Strengthening our supply chains is essential to ensuring that critical goods remain accessible and affordable,” Sen. Cantwell said. “And we need strong, secure supply chains to keep our country competitive in the global race for emerging technologies. This bill will strengthen American manufacturing jobs, keep our store shelves stocked and lower costs for American families."" Senators Cantwell and Blackburn introduced the Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act (S. 4375) in May 2024. The House companion legislation, introduced by Reps. Bucshon and Blunt Rochester (H.R. 6571), overwhelmingly passed the House the same month. “The past few years have revealed significant weaknesses in the supply chains that Americans depend on, affecting everything from manufacturers and healthcare providers to our warfighters. Now more than ever, we must support American business seeking to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on unstable or adversarial trading partners such as China,” said Dr. Bucshon. “The inclusion of key provisions from The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act will help bolster our economy by enabling us to proactively address potential disruptions and respond effectively when they arise.” “Strong, functional, and secure supply chains are critical not just to our businesses and workers, but to our national security. I am thrilled that provisions from our bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act, legislation I championed alongside Dr. Bucshon in the House, is set to pass in the end of year package and be on its way to President Biden’s desk for his signature,” said Rep. Blunt Rochester, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “The pandemic exposed the need for us to shore up our supply chains, and in the years since, I’ve heard directly from Delawareans about how shortages of critical goods have impacted them, their families, and their businesses. It’s why I’ve been laser-focused on building bipartisan and bicameral support for this legislation, so we can put a national strategy in place to anticipate shocks before they occur, ultimately creating more good-paying jobs and lowering costs for consumers in Delaware and across our nation.” Geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters and the pandemic have highlighted the fragility of supply chains. These events can cause significant delays and shortages, impacting everything from consumer goods to critical medical supplies and driving up the costs of consumer goods. The U.S. is heavily reliant on single countries for critical supply chain segments, including manufacturing components, critical minerals, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This concentration poses a significant risk of disruption. Most U.S. companies currently lack full visibility into their supply chains, with estimates suggesting that more than 90 percent do not have complete transparency throughout their entire supply chain. The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act: Section-by-Section",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-joint-statement-on-house-leadership-s-refusal-to-allow-a-vote-on-the-kids-online-safety-act,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Joint Statement on House Leadership’s Refusal to Allow a Vote on the Kids Online Safety Act",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the status of passing the Kids Online Safety Act in the 118th Congress: “While the House has refused to take up the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, countless children and teens have died from suicide, mental health disorders, predation, bullying, and drug use fostered and fueled by Big Tech. One of these victims, Jesse Harrington, was a 15-year-old boy who wanted to be a firefighter and died by suicide in October after becoming addicted to Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, while the House sat on its hands at the behest of Mark Zuckerberg. The House’s active obstruction of the Kids Online Safety Act will tragically result in the deaths of even more children like Jesse. To be clear: the blockade against safeguards and accountability was about padding Big Tech’s financial bottom line, not principle. For nearly four years, we have worked with more than 240 organizations and colleagues across the political spectrum to craft bipartisan legislation to protect children online from Big Tech abuses – legislation that passed the Senate on a 91-3 vote. Yet falsehoods crafted in Silicon Valley boardrooms and parroted by Washington politicians, along with millions of dollars spent along the way, held up KOSA in the House to advance Meta and Google's goal of profiting off our children. We are thankful to Senate leadership, most especially Senators Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, John Thune, Ted Cruz, and Maria Cantwell and the powerful bipartisan coalition that supported KOSA and continues to believe it is necessary. We are grateful for the many free speech advocates who saw through Big Tech's lies and smokescreen, including Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, and Donald Trump, Jr. It was House Republican leadership who chose not to move this bill forward despite overwhelming support. We will continue the strongly bipartisan fight on the Kids Online Safety Act for the young people and parents across the country that have spoken up and demanded reforms from Big Tech. The American public deserves to know that their families and kids’ lives are more important than Meta and Google’s profits.” – Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/veterans/blackburn-demands-accountability-from-secretary-mcdonough-on-mountain-home-va-scandal,Blackburn Demands Accountability from Secretary McDonough on Mountain Home VA Scandal,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough regarding the disturbing reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate workplace conduct involving multiple employees at the Mountain Home Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). Senator Blackburn requested an update on the status of the ongoing investigation, how many allegations have been made against the Mountain Home VAMC in recent years, what corrective actions will be taken, and how many employees have been terminated or reassigned as a result of the investigation. Mountain Home VAMC Is Subject of Ongoing Investigation on Reports of Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, and Inappropriate Workplace Conduct “I write to inquire about the ongoing investigation into allegations of misconduct at the James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Mountain Home VAMC) in Johnson City, Tennessee. As you know, your staff briefed me regarding disturbing reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate workplace conduct involving multiple employees at the Mountain Home VAMC.” Such Disgusting Misconduct Should Never Have Been Allowed to Occur “It is beyond reprehensible that no individual has been held meaningfully accountable for their actions. Equally troubling are the leadership and oversight failures that may have allowed such misconduct to occur. The absence of clear answers, coupled with media reports, has caused unnecessary distress among the Mountain Home veteran community. The VA must act urgently to address these concerns. Transparency and accountability are not optional—they are essential to restoring trust and ensuring my constituents feel that they can expect this facility to provide them with the highest standard of care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-burchett-votes-against-fy2025-ndaa,Congressman Burchett votes against FY2025 NDAA,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., (December 11, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) voted against the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. “It spends $9 billion more than last year's NDAA and the Pentagon just failed their seventh consecutive audit. I'm not going to vote taxpayer money into thin air or put it into the hands of folks who can't handle it."" said Rep. Burchett. The FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act authorizes $895.2 billion in defense spending, an increase of over $9 billion from the FY2024 NDAA. For reference, in 2020, the U.S. authorized $778.4 billion in defense spending.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-fleischmann-votes-to-pass-fiscal-year-2025-national-defense-authorization-act,Chairman Fleischmann Votes to Pass Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“The Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA is an essential bill that makes critical investments in our military, troops, and, most importantly, our nation’s nuclear deterrent and infrastructure, which are all of the highest priority for the safety and security of the United States and the entire free world. There is no denying the fact that Communist China, Russia, and their proxies are heavily investing in their nuclear arsenals and militaries with the intent of spreading their malign influence throughout the world. Sadly, because of the weakness of the Biden-Harris Administration, we’ve seen Russia invade the sovereign country of Ukraine and threaten the world with the use of a tactical nuclear weapon, and Communist China continues to threaten the sovereignty of Taiwan and the entire Asia-Pacific region. As the enemies of freedom continue to threaten the world, the United States of America must not fall behind in our military capabilities to keep not only our nation free and safe, but also the entire free world,” said Chairman Fleischmann. “The FY25 NDAA restores military lethality by investing in state-of-the-art weaponry and military systems while removing Biden’s and Harris’ woke policies that have been forced on our servicemen and women, gives our troops a must needed and deserved pay raise, cuts unnecessary spending; saving taxpayers billions, and, most importantly, makes essential upgrades to America’s nuclear deterrent and infrastructure that are critical for our nation to not fall behind China and Russia. As Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, one of my highest priorities has been to modernize and invest in our nuclear deterrent so the United States and our allies will never be able to be threatened by our adversaries with nuclear supremacy. We can never allow Russia or Communist China to replace the United States of America as the global nuclear superpower, and the FY25 NDAA ensures this will not happen.” “Specifically, as Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, I am pleased that the FY25 NDAA: Fully funds modernization of America’s nuclear triad, as well as the infrastructure and nuclear command, control, and communications that support our nuclear deterrent. Fully supports plutonium pit production at the Savannah River Site and Los Alamos National Laboratory. Fully funds the construction and procurement of new Columbia class ballistic missile submarines and support infrastructure. Prohibits the Biden Administration from admitting Chinese, Russian, Iranian, and North Korean nationals to enter nuclear laboratories and related facilities. “We live in a dangerous world. Every American has seen the global geopolitical situation deteriorate over the last four years due to our adversaries’ perceived weakness of the United States under Joe Biden’s and Kamala Harris’ weak leadership. As we turn the page on the last four years, we must do everything in our power to strengthen and revitalize our military. I strongly applaud my colleagues in the House for passing the FY25 NDAA and urge the Senate to quickly follow the House’s lead and pass the NDAA so we can begin to make America Strong Again and reassert America’s global military leadership.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-harshbarger-introduces-legislation-eliminate-pbm-monopoly-pharmaceutical,Rep. Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to Eliminate the PBM Monopoly on the Pharmaceutical Delivery Chain,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Diana Harshbarger,H001086,harshbarger.house.gov,harshbarger,https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) and Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.) introduced the Patients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will prohibit joint ownership of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and pharmacies, a gross conflict of interest that enables these companies to enrich themselves at the expense of patients and independent pharmacies. The Senate version of the bill was introduced by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) Over the past decade, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) — the middlemen between pharmacies and health insurance companies — have morphed into large healthcare conglomerates that exercise control over every link in the prescription drug coverage and delivery chain. Today, the largest healthcare conglomerates each own a PBM — which pays for pharmacy services — as well as the pharmacy chains that provide those services. This inherent conflict of interest results in higher drug costs for patients and fewer independent pharmacies, but bigger profits for the corporate healthcare giants. The Patients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act would address this by: Prohibiting a parent company of a PBM or a health insurer from owning a pharmacy business; Requiring that a parent company in violation of the PBM Act divest its pharmacy business within three years; Enabling the FTC, Department of Health and Human Services, Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, and state attorneys general to issue orders requiring violators of the PBM Act to divest its pharmacy business and disgorge any revenue received during the period of such violation; Directing the FTC to distribute any disgorged revenue to harmed communities, including consumers overcharged at vertically integrated pharmacies; Mandating reporting of all divestitures to the FTC, and allowing the FTC to review all divestitures and subsequent acquisitions to protect competition, financial viability, and the public interest. “As a life-long pharmacist, I know first-hand how unchecked PBM consolidation and vertical integration have allowed these shadowy middlemen to self-deal and manipulate the system in ways that are driving up drug costs, limiting patient choices, and putting the financial screws to independent community pharmacies,” said Representative Harshbarger. “I’m a proud conservative Republican, but we have antitrust laws for a reason. That’s why I’m joining my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Patients Before Monopolies Act, which will protect consumers and taxpayers, and ensure fair competition by breaking up these anticompetitive, conflict-of-interest arrangements. Federal regulators should never have let this excessive concentration of our healthcare industry happen in the first place, and so it’s up to Congress to get the job done.” “The PBM industry is rife with self-dealing that raises costs for patients and bankrupts independent pharmacists. No PBM should be allowed to own pharmacies because it poses an unacceptable conflict of interest when it then sets reimbursement rates for its own versus external pharmacies. Independent pharmacies deserve fair play,” said Representative Auchincloss. ThePatients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act is endorsed by the American Economic Liberties Project (AELP), National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. (APCI), Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency (PUTT), Patients Rising, and AffirmedRx. “Giant PBMs and insurers owning their own pharmacies has driven independent pharmacies out of business and reduced patient access to quality care. The Patients Before Monopolies Act addresses the root cause of this problem — consolidated market power — by eliminating the inherent conflicts of interest within the big three PBM business model,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “We are thrilled to see Rep. Harshbarger and Rep. Auchincloss lead this bipartisan effort to lower drug costs, protect independent retail pharmacies, and improve patient access to care.” “A particularly egregious result of the vertical integration of PBM-insurers with retail and mail-order pharmacies is that the PBM – which competes with independent pharmacies and others – decides what their rival pharmacy will be reimbursed and which patients will be allowed to use them. There are also countless examples of PBMs paying their pharmacies much higher reimbursement than non-affiliated pharmacies and using patient data to steer patients to their own pharmacies,” said Anne Cassity, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Community Pharmacists Association. “We're grateful to Reps. Harshbarger and Auchincloss for introducing the PBM Act, which will go a long way in eliminating the conflicts of interest that currently exist in this space.” “The inherent conflicts of interest between PBMs owning their own retail, mail-order, and specialty pharmacies have resulted in higher drug costs, reduced patient choice and access to care, and unsustainable reimbursements to non-PBM affiliated pharmacies. With retail pharmacies closing at an alarming rate and patients fighting life-threatening diseases being steered to PBM-owned pharmacies and often overcharged thousands of dollars for medications, the Patients Before Monopolies Act couldn’t come soon enough,” said Greg Reybold, Vice President of Healthcare Policy and General Counsel at the American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. “This commonsense legislation strikes at the heart of anti-competitive PBM behavior and roots out conflicts of interest by prohibiting ownership of both a PBM and a pharmacy. American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc., is grateful to Reps. Harshbarger and Auchincloss for their work and leadership on this issue and looks forward to fighting for this critically important piece of legislation.” “While there are a variety of conflicts of interest that can compromise the intended role of PBMs to act as counterweights to inflated drug prices, one of the chief areas of system misalignment arises from PBM ownership of pharmacies. As these large vertically integrated companies serve as both price-setter and price-taker for pharmacy transactions, PBM incentives to reduce drug markups and to manage pharmacy reimbursement and network decisions in an unconflicted manner are significantly undermined,” said Antonio Ciaccia, President of 3 Axis Advisors. “In our work advising government programs and commercial plan sponsors, we stress that minimizing or eliminating these areas of misalignment are foundationally critical in order to achieve greater balance for medicine accessibility and affordability.” ""For too long vertically integrated PBMs have put profits over patients, driving up costs, limiting access to essential medications, and forcing countless independent pharmacies to close their doors. The Patients Before Monopolies Act is a step toward breaking these monopolies, restoring fairness and competition and, most importantly, ensuring patients get the care they need at a price they can afford,” said Greg Baker, Pharmacist, CEO of AffirmedRx, a transparent PBM. “At the heart of our mission is the belief that transparency and integrity should be the foundation of health care. I congratulate Representatives Harshbarger and Auchincloss for putting patients first, and urge Congress to pass this bipartisan bill.” ""This bill is the next step in urgently-needed legislation to eliminate the profiteering and other conflicts of interest that exist when private health insurers and their pharmacy benefit managers are allowed to design and sell health benefit plans while also owning pharmacies, clinics, and other point-of-care entities,” said Monique Whitney, Executive Director of Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency. “Vertical integration among the largest healthcare insurers has only served to saddle Americans with the priciest possible premiums for impossibly high-deductible plans that provide fewer options and ultimately result in poorer health outcomes. We applaud Representatives Harshbarger and Auchincloss for recognizing the need to dismantle the current system, which has failed consumers and taxpayers at just about every level.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issue/technology/blackburn-on-fox-business-we-have-the-votes-to-pass-kosa-in-the-house,Blackburn on Fox Business: ‘We Have the Votes to Pass KOSA in the House’,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today on Fox Business’ Varney & Co., U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) urged House Republican leadership to call a vote on the Kids Online Safety Act, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate 91-3 in July. Last week, free speech champion Elon Musk endorsed the new negotiated text as well as X CEO Linda Yaccarino and Donald Trump, Jr. Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks about KOSA on Fox Business. STUART VARNEY: “House lawmakers have just weeks to pass the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act before the new Congress is sworn in. The Senate has already passed this bill with overwhelming majority. This bill would limit who kids can talk to, limit infinite scrolling and notifications, make it easy for kids to delete data, and a whole lot more… Are there enough votes to get this thing passed now?” SENATOR BLACKBURN: “Yes, indeed. In the House, we have enough votes to get it passed. It is a matter of the Leader and the Speaker in the House actually putting it on the floor and calling a vote. There’s been all these falsehoods about the bill, and we have worked to tighten up protections on free speech. We have addressed some of the ‘duty of care.’ There is absolutely no reason for the bill not to move forward.” “Stuart, when Elon Musk has signed off on this bill – he is truly the free speech champion. He bought X to make certain that free speech was protected. And he and Linda Yaccarino, who is the CEO of X, have both tweeted in support. Donald Trump, Jr. has tweeted in support. We need to make certain we put protections in place for our children in the virtual space just like we have them in the physical space.” RELATED: Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on New ‘X’ Negotiated KOSA Text",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-tenney-introduce-doge-acts-to-make-federal-government-more-efficient-and-slash-wasteful-spending,"Blackburn, Tenney Introduce “DOGE Acts” to Make Federal Government More Efficient and Slash Wasteful Spending",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and U.S. Representative Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) introduced a package of bills known as the “DOGE Acts” to hold the federal government accountable for managing taxpayer dollars. The DOGE Acts coincide with President-elect Trump’s recently announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which will be led by entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. “The American people have had enough of outsized bureaucracy and wasteful government spending. The DOGE Acts are the first step to achieving government efficiency by requiring federal employees to get back in the office, moving federal agencies into the heartland of America, cutting bloated federal spending across the board, and freezing federal hiring and salaries until we can rightsize the federal government,” said Senator Blackburn. “Under President Trump's leadership and a Republican-controlled Congress, we are determined to cut wasteful government spending and reduce costs for hardworking Americans. Congress is ready to collaborate with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to rein in bloated budgets, relocate federal agencies out of Washington, DC, reform outdated bureaucracies, and ensure bureaucrats actually work for their pay. The DOGE Acts embody these priorities, serving as a bold first step in advancing the incoming Trump Administration's 'Make America Efficient Again' agenda,” said Representative Tenney. THE DOGE ACTS: The DOGE Acts include the separate pieces of legislation below: The Federal Freeze Act would help address out-of-control spending and save taxpayer dollars by implementing a one-year freeze on increases in federal civilian employees’ salaries, directing federal agency heads to establish a cap on the number of workers that can be employed over a period of three years, and decreasing the number of employees at federal agencies. This legislation would exempt certain employees deemed necessary to serve the interests of law enforcement, national security, public safety, and public health services. Click here for bill text. The Commission to Relocate the Federal Bureaucracy Act would decentralize the power held by unelected bureaucrats in Washington D.C. by establishing a plan to relocate non-national security related agencies to states across the country based on financial efficiency, existing infrastructure, and related industries. Click here for bill text. The Federal Employee Performance and Accountability Act would establish a performance-based pay structure that bolsters government efficiency by incentivizing high performance among federal employees, exempting agencies deemed necessary for national security or public safety. Click here for bill text. The Stopping Home Office Work’s Unproductive Problems (SHOW UP) Act would require federal agencies to return to pre-pandemic telework levels within 30 days and would prevent federal agencies from permanently expanding telework without submitting to Congress telework plans certified by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This legislation passed the House last year. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-warner-delbene-pfluger-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-u-s-immersive-technology-leadership,"Blackburn, Warner, DelBene, Pfluger Introduce Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Immersive Technology Leadership",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) along with Representatives Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) introduced the United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act to establish an advisory panel tasked with creating a national immersive technology strategy: “We need to stay two steps ahead of our adversaries when it comes to applying immersive technology in American industries and stimulating economic growth,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act would make certain we can compete with adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party and safeguard national security as virtual reality and augmented reality become more prevalent on the world stage.” “The global technology landscape is rapidly changing. In order to take full advantage of the possibilities of XR, remain competitive globally, and protect our national interests, it’s crucial that we have industry and government leaders working together on the same page. This legislation will help to do just that by creating a national strategy for XR,” said Senator Warner. “We cannot allow ourselves to be left behind in the burgeoning XR field,” said Rep. DelBene. “As our world becomes increasingly technological, it is crucial that we prepare to compete effectively on the global stage while protecting our interests. This legislation will help us catch up to other global leaders and regain our foothold in creating national standards.” “Immersive Technology is an essential technological tool utilized by thousands of Americans, businesses, and our military for enhanced simulation and training capabilities. Recently, China has been aggressively investing in XR technology, posing a potential threat to our economic and national security interests,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Our legislation will ensure the United States maintains global leadership through a national strategy in this emerging technology.” BACKGROUND: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), collectively known as immersive technology (XR), allow us to blend the digital and physical worlds into one integrated experience. From automatically generated closed captions of live conversations for the hearing impaired to creating personalized, hands-on training modules for students, the benefits of XR are limitless. Despite being home to some of the world’s largest XR content and hardware producers, the U.S. lags behind other countries in creating a clear roadmap for applying them to commercial and personal use. Already, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and China have strategies that allow them to embrace immersive technologies. The U.S. is relinquishing its role on the international stage to guide the creation of XR standards without a strategy. UNITED STATES LEADERSHIP IN IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY ACT: The United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act would: Direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to create an advisory panel to advise the president on how to utilize XR in commerce, trade, and economic competitiveness, in coordination with relevant Congressional committees. Direct the advisory panel to study the state of XR and the effects of XR on our national security. Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-liberty-laundry-act-passes-house,Rep. Ogles' ‘Liberty In Laundry Act’ Passes House,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) achieved another significant legislative milestone today with the passage of his standalone bill, the Liberty in Laundry Act, through the House of Representatives. This legislation bars Biden’s Department of Energy from establishing costly energy conservation standards on clothes washers. This bill is one of his many efforts to dismantle the Biden regime’s excessive and unconstitutional regulations on consumer appliances. “I have spent much of my time in Congress fighting back the federal government’s vast overreach into the lives of hardworking Americans. In a slew of woke, “environmental” nonsense rulemaking attempts by the Biden Administration, the Secretary of Energy issued new standards for clothing washers and dryers in March,” said Congressman Ogles. “In response, I introduced the Liberty in Laundry Act, which will prohibit the Secretary of Energy from imposing “energy conservation standards” for clothes washers that are not economically feasible and economically justified. Americans should be able to do their laundry in peace without the input of Big Brother.” Cosponsors (2): Reps. John Moolenar (MI-02) and Diana Harshbarger (TN-01). BILL TEXT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/immigration/video-blackburn-calls-on-senate-judiciary-committee-to-pass-the-clear-act,VIDEO: Blackburn Calls on Senate Judiciary Committee to Pass the CLEAR Act,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) called on Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) to take up and pass the CLEAR Act, which would ensure state and local law enforcement officials can help the federal government deport criminal illegal immigrants from the U.S. This hearing included testimony from Patty Morin whose daughter, Rachel Morin, was allegedly murdered last year by an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Blackburn: Open-Border Policies Are Not Compassionate “This open-border policy that we’ve seen is not a compassionate policy. I’ve talked to people that work with human trafficking and sex trafficking, and what is happening to women and children is abhorrent, and we are all aware of that. Mr. Chairman, I appreciated your remark that we should deport those that are truly a danger to Americans. I think that’s accurate. I don’t think anyone would disagree with that.” Blackburn Calls on Senate Judiciary Committee to Pass the CLEAR Act “We’ve all seen the uptick in violent crimes – such as Ms. Morin and her family have experienced – and this is the reason I re-introduced my CLEAR Act this year, which would enable local law enforcement when they apprehend someone who is in the country illegally to detain them and then call on ICE to deport them. And then the federal government have to repay that local law enforcement agency for what they’ve spent in that apprehension, that detention, and we should pass this bill today. That would be a good thing for this committee to be doing this last week. Pull it up, put it on the hotline, and run it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-introduces-pilot-certificate-accessibility-act,Rep. Burchett introduces Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., (Dec. 9th, 2024) – Last week, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act. Commercial pilots are required to carry paper copies of their original medical and airman certificates in the event inspection is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator, a National Transportation Safety board representative, or federal, state or local law officials. The Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act would increase efficiency by allowing pilots to carry digital copies of these documents on electronic devices or cloud storage platforms. “Everything we do is online nowadays,” said Rep. Burchett. “I don't see a reason why our pilots should have to carry physical documents with them instead of keeping them on their phone like everything else.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-cortez-masto-probe-doj-on-match-fixing-risk-ahead-of-2026-fifa-world-cup-and-2028-olympics,"Blackburn, Cortez Masto Probe DOJ on Match-Fixing Risk Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri on the growing risk of match-fixing in the United States and its potential ties to organized crime around the world. Match-fixing not only threatens the game, but is often connected to human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. The Senators are seeking answers from the DOJ on U.S. enforcement against match-fixing and the steps federal law enforcement is taking to protect the integrity of sports against those running illegal offshore sports books. American Law Enforcement Must Be Equipped to Combat Organized Crime and Match-Fixing as U.S. Prepares to Host FIFA World Cup and Olympics “We write to you today to express our unease at the growing risk of match-fixing in the United States and its potential ties to organized crime around the world. As the United States plans to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics—two of the biggest sporting events in the world—we must ensure American law enforcement has every tool at their disposal to protect the integrity of the games and fight against organized crime.” Organized Crime Efforts Are Becoming More Sophisticated and Lucrative “Organized crime has long manipulated sporting events, and their efforts are only getting more sophisticated. Match-fixing does not simply pose threats to the integrity of the game, but it can be connected to violent crime—including human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. These criminals have seized on illicit sports betting and match-fixing as a vehicle for laundering money and making incredible profits. Foreign, illegal online betting markets have become the perfect venues for these schemes, with studies showing that up to 10% of organized crime revenue is made from sports bets. Experts estimated in 2014 that $140 billion is laundered annually through illegal and unregulated sport betting, an amount that has undoubtedly grown. While the most prominent examples of sports corruption have been international, there is risk of match-fixing in this country... Given this risk, it is important to ensure the United States government has every possible tool to keep our sports safe for players and fans alike.” Match-Fixing Exploits the Vulnerable, Harms Athletes, and Corrupts Athletics – We Must Bring Transnational Criminals to Justice “When similar concerns were raised in countries around the world, their legislative bodies acted to make match-fixing a specific criminal act to address the full scope of match-fixing behavior and give their judicial and law enforcement systems the clarity and tools needed to bring these transnational criminals to justice. Sport brings the world together, and we must fight to protect its integrity against the onslaught from criminals who exploit the vulnerable, target athletes for harassment, and corrupt the globe’s best traditions. The United States has one of the most vibrant sporting communities in the world, and it is imperative we support our athletes—from little league teams to collegiate stars to professional players.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/fema-public-assistance-webinar,FEMA Public Assistance Webinar,2024-12-08,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Diana Harshbarger,H001086,harshbarger.house.gov,harshbarger,https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Tuesday, December 10th, FEMA will be holding a webinar outlining how communities can use and benefit from public assistance through their cost-sharing assistance program. Local partners, non-profits, and community leaders are encouraged to join. FEMA’s Public Assistance Mitigation Cost Share Incentives Webinar Date: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024 Time: 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. EST Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1606110130?pwd=HYtnBCuaHrFAIqZd8iSKMlumdrEDYt.1 Webinar ID: 160 611 0130 Passcode: CSI",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-statement-on-new-x-negotiated-kosa-text,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on New ‘X’ Negotiated KOSA Text",2024-12-07,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement after X CEO Linda Yaccarino announced updated KOSA bill text to further safeguard freedom of speech for minors online. “Led by X, the new changes made to the Kids Online Safety Act strengthen the bill while safeguarding free speech online and ensuring it is not used to stifle expression,” said Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal. “These changes should eliminate once and for all the false narrative that this bill would be weaponized by unelected bureaucrats to censor Americans. We thank Elon and Linda for their bold leadership and commitment to protecting children online and for helping us get this bill across the finish line this Congress. We appreciate that this endorsement and revised text reflects their publicly stated goal of furthering free speech without fear of censorship. We reiterate X’s call to pass KOSA by the end of the year – it is clear that this legislation has overwhelming support from Congress.” BACKGROUND: You can view the revised bill text, including changes negotiated by X, here. These changes were made to further make clear that KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet, and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from. The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral. RELATED: Blackburn Announces Growing Conservative Momentum for the Kids Online Safety Act Tennessee AG Leads 31 State Attorneys General in Urging Congress to Pass Blackburn’s Kids Online Safety Act",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner-0,Congressman Kustoff Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner,2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) announced the 2024 Congressional App Challenge winner for Tennessee's Eighth Congressional District is Alex Barthel from St. George's Independent School in Shelby County. Alex created the app, Unbias, which uses artificial intelligence to identify and report potential biases in news and articles. ""Congratulations to Alex for winning this year's Congressional App Challenge,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""Alex's app, Unbias, uses artificial intelligence to identify and report potential bias in news sources. I am always impressed to see West Tennessee's next generation create these innovative apps that will benefit our community. Thank you to all the students who submitted an app this year."" The Congressional App Challenge began in 2014 as an effort to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), and to encourage students to learn coding and computer science skills. Students in participating congressional districts compete against their peers by creating original software applications (""apps""). Winning apps are featured on the U.S. House of Representatives' website, the Congressional App Challenge website, and are displayed in a U.S. Capitol Building exhibit. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/immigration/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-crack-down-on-fentanyl-trafficking-dangerous-counterfeits-and-imports-made-with-forced-labor,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Crack Down on Fentanyl Trafficking, Dangerous Counterfeits, and Imports Made with Forced Labor",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Detection and Exclusion of Negligent, Illicit, and Extralegal Deliveries (DENIED) Act to crack down on fentanyl trafficking, protect Americans from unsafe counterfeits, and prevent bad actors from importing products made with forced labor into the United States by exploiting U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) screening process: “Foreign criminals and shady businesses exploit vulnerabilities in our trade system to import products made with forced labor, slip counterfeit goods into U.S. markets, and smuggle drugs across the southern border,” said Senator Blackburn. “We need to strengthen efforts to prevent bad actors from importing unethical goods, and our DENIED Act would combat the fentanyl epidemic, protect U.S. intellectual property, and counter forced labor practices around the world.” “Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this bipartisan bill to strengthen enforcement against imports tainted by forced labor and illegal trade practices,” said Senator Ossoff. BACKGROUND: De minimis entry permits imports valued under $800 to enter the United States duty-free through a streamlined inspection process, allowing CBP to focus its resources on higher-risk shipments. While most businesses follow the rules, some have exploited the de minimis process to import products made with forced labor, especially from regions like Xinjiang, China. This allows them to bypass critical inspections and undercut companies that adhere to ethical standards. Earlier this year, Senator Blackburn sent a letter to U.S. Treasury Department Secretary Janet Yellen raising concerns about the Biden-Harris administration’s failure to fully enforce the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). In addition, criminals are using the de minimis process to smuggle drugs like fentanyl and its precursor chemicals into the United States, avoiding detection by shipping small packages and fueling the ongoing opioid crisis. In 2023 alone, CBP seized over 27,000 pounds of fentanyl – enough to kill over 6 billion people – yet many de minimis shipments go uninspected, allowing dangerous drugs to slip through undetected. Counterfeit goods are also being imported through the de minimis process, stealing the innovative work of American businesses and endangering consumers with dangerous products like faulty electronics, fake pharmaceuticals, and substandard automotive parts. DENIED ACT: The DENIED Act would empower CBP to establish a new “Denied Parties List,” barring foreign companies that repeatedly aid or facilitate the import of forced-labor products, counterfeit goods, or illegal drugs from leveraging the de minimis process. This safeguard ensures that bad actors can no longer dodge inspections to flood the market with dangerous and unethical products. The Treasury Secretary would be required to publish the Denied Parties List every 90 days, exposing companies banned from duty-free entry and detailing the reasons for their ban. Entities added to the Denied Parties List would also be referred to the UFLPA Task Force, strengthening coordination among enforcement agencies and reaffirming America’s commitment to combating forced labor in China and around the world. CBP, in coordination with the United States Postal Service, would be authorized to enhance data collection on de minimis imports, providing law enforcement with the tools they need to better target and crack down on unauthorized imports. This legislation would also empower CBP to impose steep fines on violators, starting at $1,000 for the first offense and rising to $5,000 for repeat offenses, ensuring there are real consequences for breaking the law and deterring future abuses. ENDORSEMENTS: This legislation is endorsed by Shatterproof, the Uyghur Human Rights Project, the Campaign for Uyghurs, and the Citizen Power Initiatives for China. “Shatterproof, a national nonprofit leading the fight against our nation’s addiction crisis, is grateful to Senators Blackburn and Ossoff for introducing the DENIED Act,” said Kevin Roy, Chief Public Policy Officer of Shatterproof. “Fentanyl-related deaths demand immediate action to stop the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into our country. This legislation enhances CBP’s capacity to combat illegal imports by closing smuggling loopholes and barring violators, including those trafficking fentanyl, from exploiting duty-free exemptions. Shatterproof calls on Congressional leadership to prioritize this critical issue.” “Companies profiting from Uyghur forced labor are now on notice: you will be barred from direct-shipping access to U.S. consumers. Uyghurs are deeply grateful to Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator Jon Ossoff for this important bipartisan bill to stop complicity in the atrocities against our people,” said Omer Kanat, Executive Director, Uyghur Human Rights Project. “The proposed measures to establish a ‘Denied Parties List’ and combat forced labor and unethical practices are critical steps in ensuring accountability and protecting the integrity of global supply chains. CFU would be honored to provide an endorsement for this initiative. We believe this Act not only strengthens safeguards against forced labor but also underscores the United States’ commitment to upholding human rights and ethical business practices,” said Rushan Abbas, Executive Director of Campaign for Uyghurs. “I strongly endorse the DENIED Act authored by Senator Masha Blackburn (R, Tennessee) and Senator Jon Ossoff (D, Georgia). The Act is a crucial step toward safeguarding both human rights in China and American markets. By closing loopholes in the de minimis entry process, this bill ensures that importers who engage in unethical practices—especially the use of forced labor—cannot bypass critical inspections. The establishment of the Denied Parties List, paired with steep fines and accountability measures, sends a powerful message: America will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable populations or the undermining of ethical businesses. Strengthening our commitment to human dignity and a fair global trade system, the DENIED Act sets a good example of bi-partisan effort to help advance human rights in China while defending our American values and interests,” said Dr. Jianli (Doc) Yang, Founder and President, Citizen Power Initiatives for China.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/senate-passes-blackburn-hickenlooper-music-tourism-bill,"Senate Passes Blackburn, Hickenlooper Music Tourism Bill",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan American Music Tourism Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors: “Tennesseans know a thing or two about the positive impact that music tourism has on the economy and culture,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Volunteer State is proud to be home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to enjoy – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. This bipartisan legislation promotes music tourism’s fast-growing industry, and I’m pleased the Senate took action to ensure fans from all over the world can celebrate the rich history of music for generations to come.” “Colorado’s vibrant music scene attracts artists and fans from around the world,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our bipartisan bill will help our local music venues thrive and expand.” ENDORSEMENTS: This legislation is supported by the Recording Academy, the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International, the Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, the National Independent Venue Association, Tennessee Department of Tourism Development, Tennessee Entertainment Commission, Memphis Tourism, Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Overton Park Shell, Airbnb, Eventbrite, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum. “The Recording Academy is pleased to support the American Music Tourism Act and applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their continued dedication to lifting up the music community. Music has long played an important role in our economy and culture. This bill will amplify the music community’s contributions to economic growth and increase understanding of music’s impact on the U.S. and the world,” said Todd Dupler, Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer of the Recording Academy. “The Nashville Songwriters Association International is glad to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As owners of an iconic music venue, The Bluebird Café, we acutely understand the impact of music on tourism dollars. With the music tourism market expected to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032, and since the United States is one of the main beneficiaries of music tourism, it is essential that the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism identify and promote musical sites of significance,” said Bart Herbison, Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International. “From the historic Grand Ole Opry to the legendary Telluride Bluegrass Festival, America’s music story comes alive at iconic venues and landmarks all across the country. We applaud Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for introducing the American Music Tourism Act, which will encourage even more music fans to experience the rich legacy of American music firsthand,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman & CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America. “In Nashville, Memphis, and countless other communities across the country, a vibrant live music scene is an economic magnet that draws fans from around the globe. The American Music Tourism Act is an important piece of legislation that will help ensure live music remains a pillar of American culture and tourism, and we’d like to thank the Senator for her leadership on this issue,” said Sally Williams, President of Nashville Music and Business Strategy for Live Nation Entertainment. “From rural communities to city centers, independent stages attract investment and visitors for the artists and professionals that put on shows and the restaurants, retail, and attractions around them. The American Music Tourism Act finally recognizes music tourism as a catalyst for economic development and ensures its growth is a national priority. We applaud Senators Marsha Blackburn and John Hickenlooper for aligning the nation’s tourism strategy with the venues and festivals across our country that the world travels to experience,” said Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association. “As the proud home to world-renowned attractions like Graceland, Grand Ole Opry, Dollywood, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Tennessee's tourism industry thrives on our rich musical heritage. The American Music Tourism Act reflects our agency’s dedication to preserving this legacy and bolstering our state’s global music appeal. By championing our diverse creative talent and attractions, we believe this legislation can bolster economic growth and draw visitors seeking authentic American music experiences,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “For decades, Tennessee has maintained its reputation as a mecca for music tourism attracting both domestic and global audiences alike. Our State’s uniquely positioned musical legacy has become a valuable tool in shaping cultural pride, economic growth, and community development across all grand divisions. The American Music Tourism Act promotes and supports our distinctive destinations and music heritage, preserving what makes Tennessee a truly exceptional place to visit,” said Bob Raines, Executive Director of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission. “Music is Memphis’ primary travel motivator, as it brings in both domestic and international visitors year-round. Visitors from around the world choose Memphis as a vacation destination for our live music, musical attractions, as well as to see and learn about our talented musicians of the past, present and future. Tourism is currently a 6-billion-dollar industry for Memphis and Shelby County. The American Music Tourism Act will allow for the preservation of all areas of our music industry and will be essential to the sustainability and future of tourism,” said Kevin Kane, President and CEO of Memphis Tourism. “Music tourism is of vital importance to Tennessee, but specifically to Pigeon Forge. Last year, more than eight million people visited our destination, many of whom came in search of musical entertainment. In addition to a highly successfully musical theater community, we are especially proud that Dolly Parton, one of the world’s most celebrated musicians and prolific songwriters, and her Dollywood theme park give so many visitors reasons to visit time and time again. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism has a vital role in promoting and increasing tourism for both domestic and international visitors. On behalf of Pigeon Forge and other Tennessee destinations that rely on music-seeking visitors, I encourage the Assistant Secretary to expand these efforts through the American Music Tourism Act,” said Leon Downey, Executive Director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. “The historic Overton Park Shell of Memphis, Tennessee is thrilled to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As stewards of our iconic venue which was home to Elvis Presley's first live performance in 1954, The Overton Park Shell acutely understands the impact of music on tourism dollars. Amplifying the work of cultural assets will have a ripple effect to the economic impact that these entities bring to our Country and the legacy of American music known worldwide,” said Natalie Wilson, Executive Director of the Overton Park Shell. “We’ve seen firsthand how concerts have become a growing tourist attraction, driving travel demand to regions around the world. That’s why we are proud to support the American Music Tourism Act, which helps promote domestic tourism in the US and amplifies the positive economic impact of Airbnb guests seeking music experiences across the country,” said Mike Signer, North America Policy Director Airbnb. “Eventbrite applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their American Music Tourism Act, bipartisan legislation consistent with Eventbrite’s commitment to live music and mission to bring the world together through shared experiences,” said Julia Hartz, Co-Founder, CEO, and Executive Chair Eventbrite. “The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors the artists whose music connects us all. We share stories of the people, events, and songs that shape our world through digital content, innovative exhibits, live music, engaging programs, and our annual Induction Ceremony, and have welcomed nearly 15 million visitors from all 50 states and around the world to our Museum in Cleveland, Ohio. We support the American Music Tourism Act to reinforce our music community’s massive economic and emotional impact on the U.S. and beyond,” said Greg Harris, President & CEO, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum. BACKGROUND: Music tourism – both the act of visiting sites important to the history of American music culture and the act of traveling for current concerts and music festivals – is a vital industry for American culture and an economic driver for our communities. Music tourism has emerged as a top travel trend, with the market forecasted to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032. The United States, which boasts one of world’s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year, is one of the main beneficiaries of this international interest in music tourism. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism is uniquely positioned to identify and promote sites of musical significance. AMERICAN TOURISM ACT: Specifically, the American Music Tourism Act would: Leverage the existing framework within the Department of Commerce to highlight and promote music tourism in the United States. Require the Assistant Secretary to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors; and Require a report to Congress on the successes and vulnerabilities of the Assistant Secretary’s goals to increase travel and tourism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/icymi-in-the-hill-senators-ramp-up-pressure-on-house-to-pass-online-safety-privacy-package-in-lame-duck-session,"ICYMI in The Hill: Senators Ramp up Pressure on House to Pass Online Safety, Privacy Package in Lame-Duck Session",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Earlier this week, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined a bipartisan group of legislators urging House Republican Leaders to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) package before the end of the year. The legislation to protect children from increasing harms caused by social media has languished in the House for months after overwhelmingly passing the Senate, 91-3, in July. Read more about the Senators’ push to pass this legislation before the end of the year below. Senators ramp up pressure on House to pass online safety, privacy package in lame-duck session Miranda Nazzaro The Hill A group of bipartisan senators pushed House Republican leadership on Wednesday to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) before the end of the year as it remains stalled in the lower chamber. In a letter sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), six senators with the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee asked the leaders to “put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote. The KOSPA package, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in July, combines two measures, including the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and aims to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms. The package also includes the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0). If passed, the measure would update the original COPPA from 1998 and add data privacy measures including the ban of targeted advertising to teens and kids online. “We write today to state our support for protecting American children from the harms caused by social media and other online platforms,” the senators wrote. “While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms.” “Federal law protecting children’s privacy has not kept up with technology. Further, current law does not protect the online privacy of teens aged 13-16,” the letter added. Signatories on the letter included Commerce Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas), along with Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) — the coauthors of KOSA — and Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), the authors of COPPA 2.0. The pressure comes with just weeks to go in the lame-duck session. KOSA and COPPA advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in September, but House leadership has mostly sidestepped whether the bills will be brought to the floor before the end of the year. Members of both parties have expressed issues with the language of the Senate versions, for varied reasons. Johnson told Punchbowl News last month he likes the concept of KOSA, though the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.” Meanwhile, some lawmakers were concerned with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harm, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders. The House version that advanced out of committee last month included amendments changing this provision. The letter follows a series of other efforts from senators, namely Blackburn to push KOSA and COPPA past the finish line. The campaigns have included meetings between tech advocacy groups and members, along with parents of children who either died or were seriously harmed because of social media. The Hill reached out to Johnson and Scalise’s offices for comment. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/health-care/blackburn-kelly-introduce-bill-to-increase-primary-care-access-and-lower-costs-for-medicaid-recipients-in-rural-communities,"Blackburn, Kelly Introduce Bill to Increase Primary Care Access and Lower Costs for Medicaid Recipients in Rural Communities",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) introduced the Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act to grant state Medicaid programs the authority to explore and implement direct primary care arrangements for Medicaid beneficiaries. Key features of the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model include predictable costs, improved access, reduced administrative burden, and lower costs. “Rural residents often experience worse health outcomes and higher hospital utilization compared to urban populations, and 78 of Tennessee’s 95 counties are rural – making it extremely important to improve primary care access for Medicaid recipients in these communities,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act would address disproportionate health care coverage in rural areas by providing states with greater flexibility to address primary care challenges within Medicaid populations.” “Access to quality primary care is essential for the health and well-being of Arizonans,” said Senator Kelly. “By expanding care options for patients, this bill will allow providers to meaningfully address health needs and improve preventive care.” BACKGROUND: Primary care providers play a critical role in preventing serious health conditions, reducing emergency room utilization, improving patient outcomes, and potentially lowering overall healthcare costs. Studies consistently show that higher continuity of primary care, where patients maintain a long-term relationship with their primary care physician, leads to fewer hospital admissions. However, Medicaid populations face unique challenges that exacerbate costs and strain provider capacity, including high emergency room utilization, disproportionate coverage in rural areas, and poorer outcomes in rural communities. Access to primary care is especially limited in rural, low-income areas. The patient-to-physician ratio in rural areas is just 39.8 physicians per 100,000 people, compared to 53.3 per 100,000 in urban areas. The United States is projected to face a shortage of up to 55,200 primary care physicians by 2032. Expanding access to DPC can help address these workforce and cost challenges by empowering state Medicaid programs to innovate and improve care delivery. DPC is an innovative health care delivery model that provides patients with unrestricted access to primary care services in exchange for a flat, predictable monthly fee. Unlike traditional fee-for-service models, DPC eliminates third-party billing for most primary care services, allowing physicians to focus on patient care rather than administrative requirements. While DPC practices are primarily used by privately insured or self-pay patients, there is growing interest in adapting the model for Medicaid beneficiaries to improve access and outcomes, particularly in underserved areas. MEDICAID PRIMARY CARE ENHANCEMENT ACT: The Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act would clarify that state Medicaid programs have the authority to explore and implement direct primary care (DPC) arrangements for Medicaid beneficiaries. The DPC model is a healthcare delivery approach in which patients pay a flat, monthly fee for access to primary care services, enabling predictable costs and potentially improving care coordination and outcomes. By codifying this authority, the bill seeks to provide states with greater flexibility to address primary care access challenges within Medicaid populations. Click herefor bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/news-bipartisan-senate-leaders-urge-house-gop-to-stand-up-to-tech-companies-protect-children-from-social-media-harms-pass-kids-online-privacy-legislation-before-end-of-year,"NEWS: Bipartisan Senate Leaders Urge House GOP to Stand Up to Tech Companies, Protect Children From Social Media Harms & Pass Kids Online Privacy Legislation Before End of Year",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chair Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Ranking Member Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Sens. Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), authors of bipartisan bills to protect children online, wrote to House Republican Leaders urging them to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) package before the end of the year. The legislation to protect children from increasing harms caused by social media has languished in the House for months after overwhelmingly passing the Senate, 91-3, in July. “While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms,” the senators wrote in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise. “Studies show the more time youth spend on social media, the greater the risk they will suffer from poor mental health, disordered eating, and diminished sleep quality. These risks are multiplied because social media platforms are designed to be addictive, so that kids will spend more time online.” The KOSPA package combines two key pieces of legislation. The first is the Markey-Cassidy Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), which updates the original COPPA passed in 1998. This legislation bans online companies from collecting personal information from users under 17 years old without their consent and creates an eraser button to eliminate personal information online. The second component is the Blumenthal-Blackburn Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which provides children and parents with the tools, safeguards and transparency to protect against online harms, establishes a duty of care for online platforms and requires the most protective settings for kids by default. “KOSPA proves that Congress can set aside politics and act decisively when our children are at stake,” the letter continued. “We ask that you join the 91 United States Senators who put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote.” Read the letter here and below: Dear Speaker Johnson and Leader Scalise: We write today to state our support for protecting American children from the harms caused by social media and other online platforms. While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms. These are not isolated harms. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the use of social media among American youth is pervasive, with up to 95 percent of kids aged 13-17 reporting that they use social media, and more than one-third of them use it constantly. Nearly 40 percent of kids aged 8-12 use social media, even though most platforms purportedly do not allow children under 13 to create an account. Studies show the more time youth spend on social media, the greater the risk they will suffer from poor mental health, disordered eating, and diminished sleep quality. The use of targeted advertising results in kids being shown ads for alcohol, tobacco, diet pills, or gambling sites. These risks are multiplied because social media platforms are designed to be addictive, so that kids will spend more time online. Federal law protecting children’s privacy has not kept up with technology. Further, current law does not protect the online privacy of teens aged 13-16. The “Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act” (“KOSPA”) will give parents and kids more tools to avoid harm. And the law will provide a long overdue update to the current Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The Senate passed KOSPA by an overwhelming, bipartisan vote of 91-3. KOSPA proves that Congress can set aside politics and act decisively when our children are at stake. We ask that you join the 91 United States Senators who put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote. Sincerely, Senator Maria Cantwell Senator Ted Cruz Senator Edward Markey Senator Bill Cassidy Senator Richard Blumenthal Senator Marsha Blackburn",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/pro-life/blackburn-smith-lead-over-100-members-of-congress-in-asking-gao-to-investigate-how-much-federal-funding-has-been-awarded-to-abortion-providers,"Blackburn, Smith Lead Over 100 Members of Congress in Asking GAO to Investigate How Much Federal Funding Has Been Awarded to Abortion Providers",2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a bicameral letter led by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representatives Chris Smith (R-N.J.), Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), 112 Members of Congress asked the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate and report on the amount of federal funding that has been awarded to abortion providers—including Planned Parenthood—over the past three years: “We are writing to request updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers,” the lawmakers wrote. “Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike,” the lawmakers continued. “It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public.” BACKGROUND: The lawmakers noted the GAO has prepared several congressionally requested reports on federal funding for these organizations over the years. According to its most recent report, the abortion industry had siphoned off nearly $2 billion federal taxpayer between fiscal years 2019-2021. CO-SIGNERS: Among the 81 House Members and 31 Senators who signed the letter are the top three leaders of the new Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issue/technology/blackburn-fights-to-protect-seniors-from-skyrocketing-artificial-intelligence-scams,Blackburn Fights to Protect Seniors from Skyrocketing Artificial Intelligence Scams,2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of the holiday season, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, issued a warning to seniors at risk of harmful cyber-attacks during a hearing on protecting consumers from artificial intelligence (AI) enabled fraud and scams: Click hereto watch the full hearing and here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. Senior Citizens Are Targeted Most Frequently by AI Scams “Older Americans are the ones who have been hit most frequently with this, as an emerging threat. Now, the fraudsters that are utilizing AI to deceive consumers have gotten crafty when it comes to creating these highly personalized and convincing attacks. What is surprising to a lot of people is the fact that they are doing this at scale… These attacks have become very realistic. The spear phishing emails that really use a lot of this, make it appear that it's coming from a trusted source. And adding to this, the chat box, which make it appear that you are having an actual real-time conversation with someone, is very disarming… The use of these tools by the scammers are becoming more prevalent, they're becoming more precise, more widespread, and harder to attack.” Artificial Intelligence Scams Are Putting Tennesseans at Risk “In Tennessee, I say we've got the good, bad, and ugly relationship with AI. A lot of our manufacturers, people that are working in healthcare, predictive diagnoses, disease analysis, logistics, they are utilizing AI every day, to achieve efficiencies… The ugly is really what is happening to people with these scams, and with these frauds, and especially when it comes to senior citizens… The FTC with the Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book listed that scams increased a billion dollars over the last 12 months to $10 billion. This is what it's costing… We know AI is what is driving a lot of this. It is a technology that is advancing so incredibly fast, and of course legislation never keeps pace with technology.” Blackburn Says Congress Must Advance Legislation to Protect Citizens in the Virtual Space and Strengthen Privacy “Consumers need to be armed with knowledge about what is happening here and… we know that it is also going to require that we move forward with having an actual online privacy standard, which we've never passed… It is going to require that we take those actions, [and] we're really thrilled to have you all before us today. It helps to inform not only our committee, our subcommittee, informs our colleagues, and builds into the record for the need to move forward on legislation that will enhance the privacy, and help to protect our citizens in the virtual space.” RELATED: Blackburn, Cantwell, Heinrich Introduce Legislation to Combat AI Deepfakes & Put Journalists, Artists & Songwriters Back in Control of Their Content Blackburn, Coons, Tillis, Klobuchar Announce Draft of Bill to Protect Voice and Likeness of Individuals from AI-Generated Replicas",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-defends-tennessee-tile-manufacturing-jobs-letter-secretary-commerce,Rep. Rose Defends Tennessee Tile Manufacturing Jobs in Letter to Secretary of Commerce,2024-11-27,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) led a letter to Secretary Gina Raimondo urging the Department of Commerce to finalize robust tariffs on Indian ceramic tile imports. The tile manufacturing industry, which has a direct presence in the Upper Cumberland, has been negatively impacted by the unfair and uncompetitive trade practices of Indian tile exporters, threatening good-paying manufacturing jobs in Tennessee. The letter comes after the U.S. Department of Commerce announced in May the initiation of antidumping and countervailing duty investigations on ceramic tile from India. Recently, Commerce published its primary determination in the countervailing duty investigation, which the signers argue should be reevaluated and revised. The antidumping duty investigation preliminary determination is expected in late November. The letter says, “As the Department of Commerce continues its investigations, we urge the Department to properly assess the data and finalize robust duties on Indian ceramic tile imports. In order to solidify and stabilize domestic manufacturing, we must ensure American manufacturers have the upper hand in the market and prioritize their needs above all others.” U.S. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Tennessee jobs are at risk due to India’s unfair and uncompetitive trade practices in the ceramic tile market,” said Rep. Rose. “Tennessee’s manufacturers deserve a fair shake on the world stage, and India’s underhanded subsidization and dumping of ceramic tile is upending the domestic market and hemming in American manufacturers. The Department of Commerce should use the tools at its disposal to aggressively counteract these nefarious trade practices to protect Tennessee jobs and domestic manufacturing.” Read the full letter below and here: Dear Secretary Raimondo: On May 10, 2024, the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce), through the International Trade Administration, announced the initiation of antidumping and countervailing duty investigations on ceramic tile from India. As you are aware, Commerce published its preliminary determination in the countervailing duty investigation on September 24, 2024. The Department announced its preliminary decision in the antidumping investigation on November 22, 2024. In its preliminary countervailing duty determination, the Department determined Win-Tel Ceramics Private Limited receives a 3.05 percent subsidy, Antiqua Minerals receives a 3.15 percent subsidy, and all other exporters receive a 3.08 percent subsidy on Indian ceramic tile imports to the U.S. However, it is clear these determinations should be reevaluated and revised to accurately portray the subsidization of products in the U.S. market. We understand the Department, oddly, decided to “penalize” the Indian Government’s lack of cooperation in Commerce’s inquiry into the provision of subsidized natural gas by adopting an inference that inadvertently benefited the Indian exporters and eliminated any natural gas tariff. The United Nations (UN) trade data utilized by Commerce was not comprehensive and failed to identify the ongoing natural gas subsidization for Indian tile production. Therefore, we urge the Department of Commerce to thoroughly examine petitioners' comments and continue diligent antidumping and countervailing duty investigations of India-produced ceramic tiles before the nonextended final determination deadline on February 5, 2025. Over the past decade, India’s tile sales in the U.S. increased from 344,000 square feet in 2013 to approximately 405 million square feet by the end of 2023. In April 2024, U.S. ceramic tile manufacturers sounded the alarm on Indian ceramic tile flooding the U.S. market and requested the imposition of an antidumping and countervailing duty. The industry estimated reasonable tariffs between 408 percent and 828 percent would offset India's ongoing unfair advantages. However, Commerce’s preliminary determination in the anti-subsidy investigation failed to fully and adequately examine important issues, including natural gas subsidies and the undisclosed affiliations of Indian producers. Meanwhile, Domestic manufacturers continue struggling against cheaper imports, losing their market footprint. We trust the Department will devote sufficient attention to Indian dumping prior to its final determination. From 2022 – 2023, the volume of tile imported from India increased by 42.6 percent to over 404 million square feet, and India comprised 20.3 percent of the total tile imports to the U.S. by the end of 2023. Moreover, between 2021 – 2023, the value of Indian tile imports increased significantly by more than $70 million. Since 2022, India has handily driven down imports from Italy, Spain, Brazil, and Mexico by hefty margins and has taken control of tile importers in the U.S. Between 2013 and 2018, China accounted for 29 to 32 percent of ceramic import value in the U.S. Therefore, on June 1, 2020, the U.S. took action and imposed a definitive anti-dumping duty on ceramic tile from China, ranging from 229.04 to 356.02 percent. As a result, Chinese tile imports dropped to 0.4 percent in 2020 and 0.1 percent in 2021 of the total U.S. title imports. India has bolstered itself as the dumping frontrunner and should be confronted with the same aggressive response to ensure stability and prosperity for American tile manufacturers. As the Department of Commerce continues its investigations, we urge the Department to properly assess the data and finalize robust duties on Indian ceramic tile imports. In order to solidify and stabilize domestic manufacturing, we must ensure American manufacturers have the upper hand in the market and prioritize their needs above all others. Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to engaging with you on this issue. The letter was co-signed by U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (TN-02). Background: Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District is home to multiple successful tile manufacturing companies: StonePeak Ceramics and Crossville Tile in Crossville, TN, Portobello America in Baxter, TN, and Colorobbia, USA in Cookeville, TN. While StonePeak is not headquartered in Tennessee, the company’s manufacturing division operates adjacent to Crossville Tile. Over the past decade, Indian tile sales to the U.S. skyrocketed from just over 340 thousand square feet to approximately 405 million square feet. In April 2024, U.S. ceramic tile manufacturers sounded the alarm and requested the imposition of antidumping and countervailing duties on Indian tile. Domestic tile manufacturers are all too familiar with the dumping of foreign tile into the U.S. market. Between 2013 and 2018, China accounted for over 30 percent of ceramic tile import value. However, the U.S. took action to suppress the bloat of Chinese tile imports by imposing a definitive antidumping duty.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:32:33Z https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-fleischmann-applauds-approval-of-hermes-2-reactors-construction-in-oak-ridge,Chairman Fleischmann Applauds Approval of Hermes 2 Reactors Construction in Oak Ridge,2024-11-25,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“I congratulate Kairos Power on their approval to build Hermes 2 at Oak Ridge’s Heritage Industrial Park. I also congratulate the NRC for their efficient approval of the construction permits to make this milestone for new nuclear a reality. The construction of two Gen IV advanced molten salt-cooled reactors, the first to produce electricity anywhere in the United States, is a major step towards expanding clean, reliable, affordable, and abundant nuclear power nationwide and creating America’s New Nuclear Future.” “Also, importantly, the Hermes 2 reactors are being built on land in Oak Ridge that was previously contaminated during the Manhattan Project and Cold War and has been expertly and thoroughly cleaned by the Department of Energy-Environmental Management and United Cleanup Oak Ridge (UCOR), an initiative I have led in my role as Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations. This land was previously unusable due to legacy Manhattan Project and Cold War-era weapons efforts back when our engineers and scientists were still learning and unlocking the best practices of nuclear manufacturing, but it is now free of contamination and the home to a new generation of civil nuclear technologies and manufacturing that will grow our economy and protect our environmental heritage.”",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:32:33Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-leads-letter-sec-chair-gensler,Rep. Rose Leads Letter to SEC Chair Gensler,2024-11-15,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06), the Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, led a letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler expressing concerns regarding Prometheum Capital’s “soft-launch” of custody services for Etherum. Representative Rose, who is a Member of both the House Committee on Agriculture Digital Assets Subcommittee and the House Committee on Financial Services Digital Assets Subcommittee, has consistently criticized the SEC and Chairman Gensler’s regulation-by-enforcement approach towards digital assets that have led to widespread confusion amongst industry participants. In the letter, the signers say that “Prometheum’s statements and actions with respect to ETH are misleading and have already caused confusion in the marketplace.” Prometheum has previously garnered the attention of Members of the House Financial Services Committee members for its serious national security and data privacy concerns. U.S. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Players in the digital assets space deserve certainty from their regulators,” said Rep. Rose. “Yet under Chair Gensler they’ve only received chaos and confusion. I hope while Chair Gensler is cleaning out his office, he can heed our concerns seriously and maybe deliver some real guidance on his way out the door.” Read the full letter here: “We write to express our continued concerns regarding Prometheum Capital’s (“Prometheum”) May 2024 “soft-launch” of custody services for Ethereum, and its stated intention to offer custodial services for Ethereum’s token, Ether (ETH). As highlighted during the House Committee on Financial Services hearing in September, a special purpose broker-dealer (“SPBD”) registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) is not permitted to custody or facilitate trading in digital assets that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) or a court has not determined to be securities, including those sold as part of investment contracts. “As you know, the SEC effectively acknowledged that ETH is not a security when, in July 2024, it formally approved a number of Ethereum spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In addition, the SEC amended its complaint against Binance to clarify that the term “crypto asset securities” does not apply to the digital assets themselves, and instead applies only to how a digital asset is sold. Such a determination has never been made by the SEC or a court with respect to the sales of ETH. Finally, we note that the SEC recently entered into a settlement with eToro, pursuant to which the company has been permitted by the SEC to continue to offer Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and ETH on its platform. “Prometheum, however, has publicly stated that ETH is a security, and that it intends to offer custodial services to retail investors. Following previous letters from Members of Congress to seek clarification on the SPBD requirements, it continues to be unclear to us how, as a SPBD approved by FINRA to custody securities only, Prometheum can custody ETH in compliance with SEC and FINRA rules, and why the SEC and FINRA continue to allow Prometheum to hold ETH out to the public as a security. As Chair Gensler acknowledged during his testimony before the Committee, SPBDs “are not allowed to custody non-securities,” yet that is precisely what Prometheum has done when it soft-launched its custodial services for ETH. “As Republicans on the House Financial Services Committee and House Committee on Agriculture have emphasized on numerous occasions, Prometheum’s statements and actions with respect to ETH are misleading and have already caused confusion in the marketplace. Commodities Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) Chairman Rostin Benham has correctly pointed out that Prometheum’s actions have risked adding to the already considerable confusion market participants face when determining whether and how to comply with SEC and CFTC rules. By allowing Prometheum to continue to falsely state or suggest that ETH is a security or has been sold as part of an investment contract and can be custodied by a registered SPBD, the SEC and FINRA are complicit in perpetuating confusion and uncertainty in the marketplace, which ultimately harms market participants and consumers. “The SEC’s and FINRA’s silence are irresponsible and continues to raise troubling questions as it relates to the SPBD requirements and process as well as the SEC’s and FINRA’s ability to oversee broker-dealers and ensure the market’s integrity.” The letter was signed by Reps. French Hill (AR-02), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), William Timmons (SC-04) and Mike Flood (NE-01). Background: Prometheum is the first digital assets trading platform to receive a Special Purpose Broker Dealer license from the Securities and Exchange Commission, allowing for trading digital asset securities. Prometheum announced in early 2024 that it would offer Ethereum on its platform to retail investors, publicly claiming it is a security. Prometheum’s decision to offer Ethereum as a security does not align with what the SEC has indicated, since it has said Ethereum should be treated as a commodity. Additionally, the license granted to Prometheum only allows it to offer securities and not commodities. Earlier this year during a House Financial Services Committee Hearing, Rep. Rose asked Chair Gensler whether a SEC-licensed platform could offer a commodity, to which he responded that a licensed platform could only offer securities. As a result, Prometheum’s continued offering of Ethereum appears to be completely misaligned with SEC guidance. Unfortunately, the SEC has made no attempt to offer clear guidance regarding whether Prometheum can offer Ethereum.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:32:33Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-introduces-bill-protecting-uap-whistleblowers,Rep. Burchett introduces bill protecting UAP whistleblowers,2024-11-12,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., (Nov. 12, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the UAP Whistleblower Protection Act. “We need to protect folks who want to come forward,” said Rep. Burchett.“Our government spends tens of millions of dollars on looking into UAPs, yet when someone wants to bring something forward, members of our government want to shut it down. People who want to bring the truth to light should be protected.” The UAP Whistleblower Protection Act would provide protections to whistleblowers who bring attention to federal funding that is being used to study UAPs. This bill was introduced the day before the House Committee on Oversight is set to hold a joint subcommittee hearing on UAPs. BACKGROUND: Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02), along with several bipartisan members of Congress, pushed for a hearing on UAPs which was held by the House Oversight Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs on July 26, 2023. The hearing featured testimony from three witnesses: Ryan Graves, former Navy pilot and Executive Director of Americans for Safe Aerospace Rt. Commander David Fravor, Former Commanding Officer, Black Aces Squadron, U.S. Navy David Grusch, former National Reconnaissance Officer Representative, Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Task Force, Department of Defense Congressman Burchett also launched the bipartisan UAP Caucus in the House of Representatives, which he co-chairs alongside Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23). Some members of the UAP Caucus sent a letter to the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community asking for follow-up information regarding David Grusch’s testimony in the recent hearing on UAPs. Congressman Burchett and other members of the UAP Caucusintroduced the UAP Transparency Act, which would require the president of the United States to direct all federal agencies and departments to make all documents relating to UAPs available to the public within 270 days.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/11/issues/veterans/video-blackburn-honors-tennessee-veterans,VIDEO: Blackburn Honors Tennessee Veterans,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video honoring the patriotism and service of more than 400,000 veterans across the Volunteer State on Veterans Day. Learn more about Senator Blackburn’s work to support Tennessee veterans here. Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn honoring Veterans Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-oversight-committee-announces-uap-hearing,House Oversight Committee announces UAP hearing,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (Nov. 8, 2024) – The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability announced it will hold a joint subcommittee hearing on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). Details are below: Date/Time: Wednesday, November 13 at 11:30am Location: 2154 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC, 20515 Witnesses: Dr. Tim Gallaudet Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (RET.) Chief Executive Officer, Ocean STL Consulting, LLC Mr. Luis Elizondo Author, and Former Department of Defense Official Mr. Michael Gold Chief Growth Officer, Redwire Corporation, and Former National Aeronautics and Space Administration Associate Administrator Mr. Michael Shellenberger Founder of Public This information is subject to change. Please check the committee website for the most up-to-date information. BACKGROUND: Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02), along with several bipartisan members of Congress, pushed for a hearing on UAPs which was held by the House Oversight Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs on July 26, 2023. The hearing featured testimony from three witnesses: Ryan Graves, former Navy pilot and Executive Director of Americans for Safe Aerospace Rt. Commander David Fravor, Former Commanding Officer, Black Aces Squadron, U.S. Navy David Grusch, former National Reconnaissance Officer Representative, Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Task Force, Department of Defense Congressman Burchett also launched the bipartisan UAP Caucus in the House of Representatives, which he co-chairs alongside Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23). Some members of the UAP Caucus sent a letter to the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community asking for follow-up information regarding David Grusch’s testimony in the recent hearing on UAPs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-john-rose-deploys-staff-swing-states-ensure-safe-and-secure-election,Rep. John Rose Deploys Staff to Swing States to Ensure Safe and Secure Election,2024-11-05,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) announced that members of his staff are participating in the House of Representatives' historic election integrity effort known as the Election Observer Program. The Constitution grants each House of Congress the authority to “be the judge of the Elections, Returns, and Qualifications of its own Members.” The Election Observer Program deploys congressional observers—including members of Representative Rose’s staff—to election sites across the country to record on-the-ground, minute-by-minute, factual information for use during election contests. Members of Representative Rose’s staff obtained training on how to properly observe election proceedings and administration. They will be on the election day site from the first vote being cast to the last vote being counted. For more information on the Election Observer Program, click here. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Tennessee is the national leader for free and fair elections. I have deployed my staff to help ensure that other states are doing their part,” said Rep. Rose. “I am proud to have members of my staff spread throughout swing districts across the country ensuring Americans’ right to vote is safe and secure. Election integrity is of paramount importance to a functioning republic, and this is one tool in our toolbox to ensure Americans can have confidence and trust in the results.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-john-rose-introduces-resolution-condemning-president-bidens-garbage,Rep. John Rose Introduces Resolution Condemning President Biden’s Garbage Remarks,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) introduced a House Resolution condemning President Biden’s remarks calling Trump supporters “garbage” during a pro forma session of Congress. The resolution reads, “Whereas, on October 29, 2024, President Biden stated, ‘The only garbage I see floating around there is his supporters,’ referring to supporters of President Trump: Now, therefore, be it resolved, That the House of Representatives condemns President Biden’s remarks referring to President Trump’s supporters as “garbage.” Read the full text here. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “President Biden must be condemned for calling millions of Americans who support Donald Trump garbage,” said Rep. Rose. “First Democrats called half the country deplorables, now they are doubling down calling us garbage. Democrats’ disrespect for half the country’s views and opinions is exactly what is wrong with the leadership of extreme far-left liberals.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-drops-bill-block-federal-funds-grotesque-mutilation-children,Rep. Ogles Drops Bill to Block Federal Funds for ‘Grotesque’ Mutilation of Children,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“God created everyone either male or female, and no one can change this through drugs or surgeries,” she said in an exclusive statement to Breitbart. “Pharmaceutical companies prey on confused young children and pressure them into making decisions they will regret for the rest of their lives. The left exploits gender confusion among young people for their own political gain. I am glad to stand with Rep. Ogles in prohibiting federal funds from going to any organization that harms our children.” Sen. JD Vance (R-OH), Trump’s running mate, discussed the issue on an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience released Thursday. Vance and Rogan suggested pharmaceutical companies and parents eager for acceptance in leftwing social circles are to blame for the rising crisis. “Are you not at all a little bit worried about how rich people are getting by prescribing experimental therapeutics to 9, 10, 12-year-old kids?” Vance told Rogan. Vance described conversations with his own children that demonstrate children should not be permitted to make life-altering decisions about their long-term health. “My four-year-old will come to me and say ‘daddy, I’m a dinosaur,’” Vance said. “Want me to take him to the dinosaur transition clinic and put scales on him?” Rogan said some parents are eager for their children to join the LGBT community to acquire a “flag of virtue they can post in their front lawn.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/11/issues/immigration/blackburn-ernst-fight-to-protect-americans-and-deport-illegal-immigrants-convicted-of-sex-crimes,"Blackburn, Ernst Fight to Protect Americans and Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – After a shocking report revealed that tens of thousands of illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are in the country, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and 18 of their colleagues in introducing a bipartisan bill that will allow America to deport sexual offenders currently in the country and block those seeking to enter: “Led by Border Czar Kamala Harris, the Biden-Harris administration has left our southern border wide open to dangerous criminals and national security threats,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Be GONE Act would ensure that illegal immigrants who commit sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence are deported to keep American citizens safe.” “These violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they’re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,” said Senator Ernst. “Since Border Czar Kamala Harris won’t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped, and deported.” BE GONE ACT: Specifically, the Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as “aggravated felonies.” CO-SPONSORS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/kustoff-helps-introduce-bipartisan-farmer-assistance-and-revenue-mitigation,Kustoff Helps Introduce Bipartisan Farmer Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) joined Congressman Trent Kelly (R-MS) to introduce the bipartisan Farmer Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act of 2024 (FARM Act) in the House of Representatives. This legislation will provide emergency assistance to farmers of eligible commodities for which the expected revenue in crop year 2024 is below the projected per-acre cost of production. As Congress continues to debate an updated Farm Bill, this legislation will provide immediate relief by helping farmers pay down debt relative to the 2024 crop and help obtain financing for the 2025 crop year. ""Our farmers produce the food, fuel, and fiber used around the world,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""Recently, our farmers have been forced to grapple with many circumstances out of their control, such as natural disasters, high inflation, and drought. That is why I am pleased to join Congressman Kelly to introduce this vital legislation that will provide our farmers with the assistance they need to keep up production. Farmers are the backbone of our economy, and I am working to ensure they have the resources they need from Washington."" This legislation has been supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, Tennessee Farm Bureau, Mississippi Farm Bureau, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Sorghum Producers, National Sunflower Association, U.S. Canola Association, U.S. Peanut Federation, USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council, USA Rice, and the Western Peanut Growers Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-cornyn-gop-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-stop-biden-harris-amnesty-program,"Blackburn, Cornyn, GOP Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop Biden-Harris Amnesty Program",2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and 12 of their colleagues introduced the Visa Integrity Preservation Act, which would close a loophole in current law that the Biden-Harris administration exploited in a June 2024 executive action to grant amnesty to illegal immigrants who entered the United States without inspection or overstayed a visa: “Since day one in office, the Biden-Harris administration has made it crystal clear that they support an open border and providing mass amnesty to illegal immigrants through unlawful catch-and-release programs,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Visa Integrity Preservation Act would stop the Biden-Harris administration from devaluing U.S. citizenship and making illegal immigration legal.” “For almost four years, the Biden-Harris administration has waived their magic amnesty wand to create unlawful programs that allow any and every person to enter and stay in the U.S. – legally or not,” said Senator Cornyn. “By strengthening the laws already on the books, our legislation would root out this massive pull factor while also preserving the integrity of our employment-based nonimmigrant visa program, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for their support.” BACKGROUND: Under current immigration law, illegal immigrants who overstay their visas cannot reenter the United States for up to 10 years if they leave, and those who illegally enter the U.S. are not allowed to reenter at all. Federal law also requires that temporary visa applicants interview abroad at a U.S. consulate before they can receive their visas, so illegal immigrants are not eligible to regularize their status using the temporary visa programs. The law does allow the U.S. Secretary of State to waive the consular interview requirement, but only on a case-by-case basis where in the national interest of the United States or in emergency situations. In June 2024, the Biden-Harris administration announced a new initiative to grant amnesty to over half a million illegal immigrants, including spouses of American citizens. As part of that initiative, President Biden and Vice President Harris waived the consular interview requirement for nonimmigrant visas, enabling immigrants who have illegally entered the U.S. or overstayed a visa to obtain temporary work visas. The Biden-Harris administration’s waiving of this policy encroaches on Congress’s authority and threatens to transform nonimmigrant visa programs into a tool to provide amnesty to illegal immigrants. VISA INTEGRITY PRESERVATION ACT: The Visa Integrity Preservation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify that immigrants who have entered the U.S. illegally or overstayed a visa for more than 180 days are not eligible for a waiver of the in-person consular interview requirement and would instead be required under all circumstances to depart the U.S. for an interview before they could receive a nonimmigrant visa. Under existing law, they are barred from reentering the U.S. upon presenting for inspection at a Port of Entry. CO-SPONSORS: This legislation is also co-sponsored by Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-highlights-domestic-violence-awareness-month-and-the-salons-stories-act-on-unmuted-with-marsha,VIDEO: Blackburn Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month and The SALONS Stories Act on ‘Unmuted with Marsha’,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a new episode of ‘Unmuted with Marsha’ highlighting Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the SALONS Stories Act. Senator Blackburn spoke with Tennessee salon owner and Shear Haven Co-Founder Susanne Post about her personal experience and how the SALONS Stories Act would incentivize states to provide domestic violence awareness training for beauty professionals. The national domestic violence hotline number is 800-799-SAFE (7233). The free 20-minute Shear Haven training can be found at Shearhaventraining.org. Clickhere to watch this episode of Unmuted with Marsha. “Last December, Senator Duckworth and I introduced a piece of legislation, the SALONS Stories Act. This is important because it allows training that is done by a nonprofit for all of our estheticians and barbers and beauticians. Tennessee and Illinois have moved forward with this training. This is something we are trying to incentivize and do nationwide.” – Senator Blackburn “This advocacy work that I'm doing was born out of a very personal season for me as a survivor of domestic violence. I know firsthand how isolating it is to be in an abusive relationship, how difficult it can be to take steps to lead safely, and how important it was for me, personally to have someone trusted and close to me that was educated with the signs of domestic violence.” – Susanne Post, Tennessee salon owner and Shear Haven Co-Founder RELATED: VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/health-care/blackburn-whitehouse-colleagues-urge-dea-to-extend-telehealth-flexibilities-for-substance-use-disorder-and-mental-health-treatment,"Blackburn, Whitehouse, Colleagues Urge DEA to Extend Telehealth Flexibilities for Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Treatment",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) led a group of 11 Senators in sending a bipartisan letter calling on the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to extend COVID-era regulatory flexibilities that increase access to telehealth services. These rules have been a lifeline for many patients, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, as well as individuals managing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and chronic illnesses. “Telemedicine has proven to be an effective tool in reducing barriers to care, supporting those with the greatest need, and bridging the divide between patients and providers,” wrote the Senators. “As bipartisan senators committed to safeguarding public health and promoting equitable access to health care, we are concerned that the reported proposed restrictions could have significant unintended consequences, including disrupting access to treatment for substance use disorder,” added the Senators. “We urge the DEA to continue working with stakeholders on a proposal that prioritizes the public health benefit for continued access to telemedicine, and finalize an additional temporary extension well before the December 31, 2024 deadline so that both providers and patients have certainty that there will be no gap in their ongoing care.” BACKGROUND: The bipartisan letter urges the Biden administration to extend the current flexibilities that safeguard access to necessary care while addressing the risks of prescription medication misuse, and recommends a final rule that creates no new barriers to care. The letter highlights that telemedicine has expanded access to life-saving treatments, particularly for opioid use disorder, mental health care, and chronic illnesses. Overdose deaths involving opioids rose to a peak of 84,181 Americans in 2022 before falling to 81,083 in 2023. Despite strong evidence that medication is the most effective treatment for opioid use disorder, only one in five Americans with opioid addiction receive medication treatment that could help them quit and stay in recovery. The Senators’ letter also stresses the importance of ensuring there is no gap in services when the current rules expire at the end of 2024. TREATS ACT: In November 2023, Senators Blackburn, Whitehouse, Murkowski, and Warner reintroduced the Telehealth Response for E-prescribing Addiction Therapy Services (TREATS) Act to increase access to medication for substance use disorder through telehealth. The bipartisan legislation would waive regulatory restrictions for accessing care, preserving flexibilities put in place to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services temporarily removed the in-person exam requirement for prescribing medication via telemedicine for people with opioid use disorder. Telehealth flexibilities helped a broad range of patients – including veterans, those living in rural areas, people experiencing homelessness, individuals in the criminal justice system, and racial and ethnic minorities – access treatment. The flexibilities are set to expire on December 31, 2024. The TREATS Act would make the changes permanent, allowing providers to waive the in-person visit requirement and instead use audio-only or audio-visual telehealth technology. The TREATS Act has 20 bipartisan co-sponsors in the Senate. CO-SIGNERS: The letter is also signed by Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Representatives Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) and Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) are leading a similar effort in the House.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-ogles-leads-bill-provide-additional-disaster-relief,ICYMI: Ogles Leads Bill to Provide Additional Disaster Relief,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) and fellow Reps. Aaron Bean (FL-04), Neil Dunn (FL-02), and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) introduced the Americans First Disaster Relief Act. The legislation would appropriate an additional $10 billion to FEMA for disaster relief. Instead of new spending, the bill would offset the $10 billion by rescinding funding for IRS agents provided through the Inflation “Reduction” Act of 2022. Additionally, the legislation prohibits FEMA from using the re-allocated disaster relief funding to provide any benefit to any alien not lawfully present in the United States. “Americans have been put last at every level by the Biden-Harris Administration. This Administration’s lackluster response to the devastation left behind by hurricanes Helene and Milton is only the latest in a string of America Last policies. Taxpayer dollars continue to be sent by the hundreds of billions to foreign countries and to fund increased audits on Middle America by a weaponized IRS, leaving little to nothing to care for the Americans who foot the bill,” said Congressman Ogles. “That’s why I have introduced the Americans First Disaster Relief Act, which would rescind funding for additional IRS agents in the so-called Inflation “Reduction” Act of 2022 and reallocate $10 billion to FEMA disaster relief.” “Floridians will not soon forget this hurricane season as the devastation across the southeast is simply unimaginable. I’m pleased to provide additional resources for the Disaster Relief Fund to help those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. I am focused on ensuring federal assistance helps families, small business owners, and communities receive support in the aftermath of these storms, and ensure the funds are utilized where they are needed most—actual disaster relief,” said Congressman Bean. Cosponsors (3): Reps. Neil Dunn (FL-02), Aaron Bean (FL-04), and Vern Buchanan (FL-16). BILL TEXT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/broadband-czar-harris-must-be-held-accountable-for-mismanagement-of-federal-initiatives,“Broadband Czar” Harris Must Be Held Accountable for Mismanagement of Federal Initiatives,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, and seven of their Senate colleagues sent a letter to Vice President Kamala Harris regarding her egregious mismanagement of federal broadband initiatives. In 2021, President Biden specifically tasked the Vice President to lead the administration’s effort to expand broadband services to rural, unserved communities. Under Vice President Harris’s tenure as the “broadband czar,” the Biden-Harris administration’s $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program has yet to connect a single person to the internet. “Instead of focusing on delivering broadband services to unserved areas, your administration has used the BEAD program to add partisan, extralegal requirements that were never envisioned by Congress and have obstructed broadband deployment,” wrote the Senators. “By imposing burdensome climate change mandates on infrastructure projects, prioritizing government-owned networks over private investment, mandating the use of unionized labor in states, and seeking to regulate broadband rates, your administration has caused unnecessary delays leaving millions of Americans unconnected.” CO-SIGNERS: The letter was also signed by Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/ogles-scott-demand-report-operational-value-al-udeid-air-base,"Ogles, Scott Demand Report on Operational Value of Al-Udeid Air Base",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a letter to House and Senate leadership, urging them to keep Section 1287 of the Senate National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the final version of the FY25 NDAA. This provision requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a report and provide a briefing on the operational value of the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, given Qatar’s relationship with Hamas, the Taliban, and other terrorist organizations. “Qatar has been housing Hamas and Taliban leadership for years, all while the United States continues to allow Qatar the privilege of hosting our nation’s largest airbase (Al-Udeid) in the Middle East,” said Congressman Ogles. “Thousands of our brave Servicemembers serve at Al-Udeid, and we have an obligation to ensure our nation’s military installations are in the hands of trustworthy allies - not bankrollers of terrorist organizations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-demands-bureau-prisons-immediately-release-steve-bannon-danbury-fci,Rep. Ogles Demands Bureau of Prisons Immediately Release Steve Bannon from Danbury FCI and Comply with First Step Act,2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"By: Tom Pappert ""Representative Andy Ogles (R-TN-05) demanded the release of former Trump White House chief strategist Steve Bannon in a Thursday letter to Biden-Harris administration Bureau of Prisons (BOP) director Colette Peters that was obtained by The Tennessee Star."" Ogles accused the federal agency of “willfully facilitating the political persecution of the Democrat Party’s political opponents,” through its refusal to apply the First Step Act (FSA) good time credits accrued by Bannon, and demanded Peters take immediate actions to secure the former Trump adviser’s early release from prison. The Tennessee congressman sent the letter after The Star obtained a confirmation from the acting warden at the Federal Correctional Institution in Danbury, Connecticut, acknowledging Bannon accrued good time credits that would ordinarily be applied toward supervised release or home confinement under the FSA, the Trump-era criminal justice reform. Acting Warden Darek Puzio acknowledged Bannon’s good time credits in his Friday letter Bannon’s attorneys, but declared them moot due to the short amount time left on the former Trump official’s sentence. Bannon was convicted in 2022 after he refused to comply with a subpoena from the House select committee that investigated January 6. Ogles wrote in his Thursday letter to Peters, “Despite retaining eligibility for home confinement, the Bureau of Prisons chose nto to ensure a just, post-incarceration placement outcome for Steve Bannon,” and accused the federal agency of “baselessly” extending Bannon’s sentence because of his “prominent role in the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement,” before referencing reporting about Bannon’s incarceration by The Star: In a letter obtained by the Tennessee Star on Monday, the Bureau of Prisons acknowledged that Steve Bannon would not be afforded the 10 days of good time credit he is entitled to under the First Step Act, as the Regional Reentry Management Office maintains it cannot process home confinement placements in under 30 days. While this bureaucratic explanation may be sufficient for an oftentimes complacent legacy media, millions of Americans will nevertheless see through this disingenuous explanation and raise questions as to why the Bureau is unnecessarily – and perhaps even illegally – imprisoning Mr. Bannon until only days before the 2024 general election.” Ogles ultimately accused the federal agency of failing to uphold the FSA during Bannon’s prison sentence, and demanded cooperation in arranging the former Trump adviser’s immediate release. “Your agency could have assisted Mr. Bannon and his team in securing a pre-release custodial arrangement; instead, for reasons we could only hope to chalk up to the typical incompetence of the Washington bureaucrat, he is now being forced to forego a benefit afforded to him under the law,” wrote Ogles. He concluded by noting his expectation of Peters’ “full cooperation in facilitating the immediate pre-release custodial arrangement for Mr. Bannon, in compliance with the First Step Act.” The Star contacted Peters on Thursday to ask whether she intended to comply with Ogles’ letter, but did not receive an immediate response. Bannon, without action from Peters, remains scheduled to be released from prison on October 29, just six days before Election Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/human-trafficking/blackburn-cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-combat-child-exploitation,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Combat Child Exploitation",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and three of their Senate colleagues introduced the PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program: “For more than 15 years, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has helped law enforcement agencies protect innocent children from sexual predators who wish to exploit them online,” said Senator Blackburn. “The PROTECT Our Children Act would reauthorize this critical program to combat technology-facilitated crimes against children.” “For decades, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has played an invaluable role in helping federal, state, and local law enforcement work together to fight child exploitation and put vicious predators behind bars,” said Senator Cornyn. “By extending and modernizing this program, our legislation would ensure these Task Forces can continue to protect our next generation in an increasingly digital world.” “We must save children who are victims of the most ongoing vile, stomach-churning crimes because child sexual abuse goes unstopped,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Protecting such victims is urgent and imperative—and we have an obligation to provide tools and resources necessary to do it. The PROTECT Our Children Act reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Programs, enabling law enforcement to combat the exploding, serious dangers of abhorrent abuse in an online society. This essential legislation will help safeguard our children and hold predators accountable.” BACKGROUND: The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Since 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects. THE PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT: The PROTECT Our Children Act would: Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide; Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material; Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs; Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations; and Reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2027 with an escalator authorization. ENDORSEMENTS: The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC). CO-SPONSORS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-recognizes-breast-cancer-awareness-month,VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encouraging women to get their yearly mammogram. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and now is the perfect time to encourage your mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends to go in for a yearly checkup. Last year, Senator Blackburn led a bipartisan effort to address the challenges female veterans face when seeking mammogram services. Expanding access to mobile mammography units, improving advanced mammography equipment, and enhancing outreach services to better publicize mammography services will increase female veterans’ access to lifesaving preventative screening. Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “As we think about breast cancer, one in eight women is expected to experience breast cancer in her lifetime, so breast health and mammograms are important. Last year, I led an effort to make certain that our female veterans have access to mammograms, and we did that through legislation that would allow mobile mammography. So ‘think pink’ during the month of October, and wear some pink, as you remind moms and sisters and daughters and friends to get that mammogram.”– Senator Blackburn RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-announces-changes-senior-district-staff,Rep. Rose Announces Changes to Senior District Staff,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"COOKEVILLE, TN—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) announced two key changes to his Tennessee staff. Ray Render, who has served as Deputy District Director since 2019, has been promoted to District Director. Rep. Rose is also pleased to welcome back Leah Grider to the team as Deputy Chief of Staff. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Ray Render and Leah Grider have shown up for the good people of Tennessee’s 6th Congressional District every day since joining my team,” Rep. Rose said. “They both reflect the best of Tennessee, and I have no doubt they will continue to work diligently to meet the needs of our constituents, from East Nashville to East Tennessee.” About Ray Render Ray Render was born and raised in Madison, Tennessee, where he graduated from Madison High School in 1985. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Tennessee Technological University in 1989. In 1993, he completed a Master of Business Administration from Belmont University. Following a long career at Bridgestone, Ray took on the role of Deputy District Director for Rep. Rose in 2019. At that time, he served those living in the western counties of Tennessee’s 6th Congressional District, including Robertson, Sumner, and Wilson. In 2023, when a significant section of eastern Davidson County was added to the 6th district and Robertson County was removed from the district due to redistricting by the state legislature, he ensured relationships with all new stakeholders were formed. From Madison to Lebanon to Gallatin, Ray is known by local elected officials, business owners, civic leaders, and other constituents as someone who can be counted on to help. Ray’s community involvement extends far beyond his official duties. In fact, his dedication to service earned him the of title of 2023 Wilsonian of the Year. He is involved with Leadership Wilson, Leadership Middle Tennessee, Wilson Rides, Habitat for Humanity, Compassionate Hands and Various Chambers of Commerce. Most recently, Ray served as president of the Mt. Juliet Breakfast Rotary Club. Image About Leah Grider Grider, a Smith County native, spent more than four years serving the 6th District from the Washington, D.C. office. Her new role for Team Rose will be based in Tennessee, primarily serving counties on the eastern end of the district, including Cumberland, Putnam, Fentress Pickett, and Scott. Leah was raised in Carthage and is a graduate of Smith County High School. She is also an alumna of Tennessee Technological University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting. Prior to her work with Representative Rose, Bane worked as an Economic Development Planner for the Upper Cumberland Development District (UCDD), where she collaborated with elected officials, key stakeholders and community leaders from across Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District in both banking and economic development job roles.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/icymi-in-the-hill-blackburn-pushes-back-against-kosa-lies,ICYMI in The Hill: Blackburn Pushes Back Against KOSA Lies,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a memo rebutting Big Tech’s lies about the Kids Online Safety Act, which passed the Senate 91-3. Read more about this memo in the article here and below. Republican senator pushes back against KOSA ‘lies’ Miranda Nazzaro The Hill Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) pushed back against tech companies’ criticism of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), responding in a memo Monday to what she described as “lies” about the privacy legislation. The memo, released Monday morning by her office, rebuked a series of arguments made by some leading tech companies and lawmakers opposed to the bill’s current form. It comes as the legislation faces an uncertain future in the House after passing in the Senate earlier this year. Blackburn, the co-author of the Senate-passed version, wrote KOSA does not censor speech nor affect the First Amendment — concerns raised by some House Republicans. “KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from,” the memo stated. “The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral. The bill would not give any new “rulemaking power” to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Blackburn wrote in response to some Republicans’ concerns it would give the FTC too much authority to regulate social media platforms. KOSA, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in a 91-3 vote in late July, is aimed at boosting online privacy and safety for children. The bill would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and intends to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms. Some House Republicans suggested last month the bill could specifically censor conservative voices or anti-abortion views. Blackburn disagreed with this, writing online platforms will not be held liable for hosting or boosting users with these views, and emphasized the bill does not grant enforcement powers related to speech or content. “Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law,” Blackburn wrote. “The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media accountable for their product designs — their own predatory business practices and deadly apps.” While the bill advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee last month, members in both parties expressed concerns with its language, for different reasons. Some lawmakers took issue with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harms, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders. Blackburn offered her definition of the provision, writing it “simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. These harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC.” The House version that advanced out of committee last month includes amendments changing this provision. The Tennessee Republican further emphasized that KOSA applies to commercial and online platforms like social media, online video games and video streaming services, but it does not apply to nonprofit organizations, blogs, news outlets, churches or broadband companies. “It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news or a church sermon,” Blackburn wrote. The bill would “give parents a seat at the table” and a place to voice their concerns with leading tech companies, she added. The push comes nearly a week after House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) revealed he likes the concept of KOSA, though he claims the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.” “I love the principle, but the details of that are very problematic,” Johnson told Punchbowl News in an interview in Pennsylvania. The Speaker said the Senate bill, as written, would have “unintended consequences,” Punchbowl reported. Johnson’s office confirmed his comments to The Hill. Punchbowl reported Johnson did not appear open to persuasion on the Senate version, a potential blow to KOSA advocates who previously told the outlet the House leader might be flexible. Monday’s memo follows a series of other efforts led by Blackburn and tech advocacy groups to pass the legislation on the full House floor. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/icymi-on-wjhl-blackburn-lauds-volunteers-promises-fema-oversight-after-floods,"ICYMI on WJHL: Blackburn Lauds Volunteers, Promises FEMA Oversight After Floods",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 during her trip to Northeast Tennessee on Friday, where she received an update from local and state officials on repairs following Hurricane Helene: Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11. Blackburn lauds volunteers, promises FEMA oversight after floods Murry Lee WJHL News Channel 11 U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) was in Northeast Tennessee surveying damage left by Hurricane Helene on Friday. Blackburn toured damage in parts of Northeast Tennessee like Washington and Greene counties. Blackburn went to the remains of the Highway 107 Kinser Bridge and examined the amount of debris in the area. News Channel 11 spoke with Blackburn in Greene County during a meeting with local leaders like County Mayor Kevin Morrison and EMA Director Heather Sipe. “We are working on flood damage and of course, the response here with the EMA with the mayor, with your local elected officials has really been exemplary,” Blackburn said. “And our team has worked really closely with them. We’re standing up the multi-agency resource centers. We are doing pop-up office hours, and Michael and Kim in our office are working with people to be sure that they recover those Social Security and VA and income tax documents.” Blackburn told News Channel 11 it is critical that people and businesses receive the care and attention required after the natural disaster. “What we want to do is make certain that FEMA stays on the ground, that individuals are able to apply for all the resources that are available to them, and that FEMA processes these claims in a timely manner, whether it is something for the county, for businesses, or for individuals,” she said. Blackburn’s office has also created a web page to direct flood-impacted Tennesseans to resources like FEMA individual assistance and Multi-Agency Resource Centers. The senator also praised the volunteer spirit of Tennessee during her visit. “Tennessee has the best volunteers and the best communities, and people have stepped up,” she said. “I think it is just so inspiring how they’ve come forward with water and food and furniture and clothing, and the communities are partnering up to help everybody in Upper East Tennessee and help them rebuild. We have so many families that have really lost everything.” Blackburn stated that part of the process going forward will be to ensure federal agencies like FEMA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) fulfill their obligations in the months to come. “What we will do is just continue,” Blackburn said. “It’s mostly oversight. There will be some funding provisions and we want to make certain that the agencies are funded adequately so that they respond appropriately to the needs that are there in the communities. And then looking at the oversight for how FEMA and the Small Business Administration and DOT, those agencies that respond in times of disaster to make certain that they do that in the proper manner.” RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-john-rose-leads-call-urgent-aid-farmers-devastated-helene,Rep. John Rose Leads the Call for Urgent Aid to Farmers Devastated by Helene,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC— Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) led a letter with Members of the entire Tennessee Congressional Delegation, U.S. Reps. Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Mark Green (TN-07), David Kustoff (TN-08), and Steve Cohen (TN-09), as well as Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, urging U.S. House and Senate leadership to provide meaningful disaster relief for Tennessee farmers in the weeks ahead. Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend of Florida as a Category 4 storm. While assessments are ongoing, Helene is on track to become one of the deadliest and most devastating hurricanes to hit the United States. In the letter, Members of the Tennessee Delegation highlighted the important role federal agricultural disaster assistance will have in helping Tennessee farmers recover. An excerpt of the letter reads: “In Tennessee, some areas received nearly 10 – 15 inches of rainfall in addition to runoff from surrounding states, drowning crops and littering fields with debris. Ruined ready-to-harvest crops and forage, flooded pastures, equipment loss, and distressed livestock have left farmers questioning how their operations will move forward and how they will provide for their families. Producers, who are already engulfed by the ongoing farm financial crisis, will require meaningful disaster assistance to stand up their operations and continue farming.” Rep. Rose released the following statement: “The Biden-Harris Administration has continuously put American agriculture on the backburner, and it is time for Congress to stand up for farmers and support our most critical industry,” Rep. Rose said. “We must be prepared to use all data and assessments to craft suitable and effective disaster relief legislation for producers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-hagerty-colleagues-call-out-doj-for-refusing-to-provide-answers-on-prosecutions-of-illegal-aliens-registering-to-vote,"Blackburn, Hagerty, Colleagues Call Out DOJ for Refusing to Provide Answers on Prosecutions of Illegal Aliens Registering to Vote",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and a group of bicameral colleagues in calling out U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) failure to prevent illegal aliens from registering to vote in American elections or prosecute those who evidently have done so: “We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the Members of Congress wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.” “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results,” the Members of Congress continued. BACKGROUND: State officials across the country have recently taken steps to prevent, deter, and investigate cases of illegal voter registration by non-citizens, including in South Carolina, Georgia, Ohio, and Tennessee. Since the Members of Congress sent their initial letter, cases have emerged in Virginia and Texas. CO-SIGNERS: Co-signers of the letter include Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), along with Representatives Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Andy Harris (R-Md.), Clay Higgins (R-La.), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Bob Good (R-Va.), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Ben Cline (R-Va.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), Mary Miller (R-Ill.), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Lance Gooden (R-Texas.), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Mike Collins (R-Ga.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Greg Lopez (R-Colo.), Keith Self (R-Texas), Brian Babin (R-Texas), August Pfluger (R-Texas), Alex Mooney (R-W. Va.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Randy Weber (R-Texas.), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.), and Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/rebuttal-to-big-tech-s-lies-about-kosa,Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies about KOSA,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"To: Interested Parties Date: October 21, 2024 Re: Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies About the Kids Online Safety Act KOSA Does Not Censor Speech Nor Impact the 1st Amendment KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from. This bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral. Online platforms cannot be held liable for hosting or promoting conservative voices or pro-life views as a result of this bill. The legislation does not include any enforcement powers or obligations related to content or speech. To be clear on Congress’s intent to protect speech, the bill includes an explicit statement that it does not expand or limit Section 230, which provides online platforms broad legal immunities for third-party content. Furthermore, the bill provides legal safeguards to protect users’ ability to view and search for the content that they choose to see. KOSA Does Not Increase The Authority of the Federal Government or FTC It is important to note that there is no new rulemaking power for the FTC in KOSA nor any ability to create rules about content. KOSA gives the FTC clear direction from Congress about how to apply its existing enforcement authorities to protect kids online. Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law. What Does KOSA’s Duty of Care Actually Do? The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media platforms accountable for their product designs – their own predatory business practices and deadly apps. This is the same responsibility and accountability that exists for almost every other industry in America The duty of care simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. Those harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC. Big Tech will be required to ensure their platforms are safe for kids by default, and not put the burden exclusively on parents. This will also ensure that the protections for kids keep up with changes in technology. KOSA Will Not Require Anyone To Upload ID KOSA does not impose age verification requirements or require platforms to collect more data about users (government IDs or otherwise). In fact, the bill explicitly states that it does not require age gating, age verification, or the collection of additional data. KOSA Protects Churches, Blogs, and News Outlets KOSA covers commercial, online platforms such as social media, social networks, online video games, social messaging applications, and video streaming services, such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Roblox. Non-profit organizations, blogs, personal websites, news outlets, churches, broadband companies, etc. are not covered by KOSA. It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news, or a church sermon. KOSA Gives Parents A Seat At The Table For decades, Big Tech lobbyists and their front groups have dominated the conversation, denying the suffering of American families. The Kids Online Safety Council is a place where parents have a seat across the table from big tech and they can raise the issues they are seeing with their kids. The Council has no rulemaking or enforcement power. KOSA Uses The Same Methods Our Military Utilizes to Define ""Mental Health Disorder” For decades, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Mental Disorders (DSM) has been used by Congress and states, as well as our military, the VA, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. How Can Companies Know Who Is Under 17? Online platforms have been required to provide legal protections to kids for more than two decades under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Just as COPPA has not required age-gating or substantial burdens on business or privacy, neither will KOSA. If an online platform truly doesn’t know the age of the user, then it does not face any obligation under the bill. It is not required online platforms collect more data to determine the user’s age. Click here to download the full memo.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-rose-tennessee-delegation-call-for-urgent-aide-to-farmers-devastated-by-helene,"Blackburn, Rose, Tennessee Delegation Call for Urgent Aide to Farmers Devastated by Helene",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), U.S. Representative John Rose (R-Tenn.), and the entire Tennessee Congressional Delegation sent a letter urging U.S. House and Senate leadership to provide meaningful disaster relief for Tennessee farmers in the weeks ahead. Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend of Florida as a Category 4 storm. While assessments are ongoing, Helene is on track to become one of the deadliest and most devastating hurricanes to hit the United States. In the letter, Members of the Tennessee Delegation highlighted the important role federal agricultural disaster assistance will have in helping Tennessee farmers recover. “In Tennessee, some areas received nearly 10 – 15 inches of rainfall in addition to runoff from surrounding states, drowning crops and littering fields with debris. Ruined ready-to-harvest crops and forage, flooded pastures, equipment loss, and distressed livestock have left farmers questioning how their operations will move forward and how they will provide for their families,” wrote the Tennessee Delegation. “Producers, who are already engulfed by the ongoing farm financial crisis, will require meaningful disaster assistance to stand up their operations and continue farming.” CO-SIGNERS: The letter was also signed by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and U.S. Reps. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Mark Green (R-Tenn.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-receives-update-on-flooding-repairs-along-nolichucky-river,Blackburn Receives Update on Flooding Repairs Along Nolichucky River,2024-10-19,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) met with local and state officials to receive an update on repairs following the devastating damages caused by Hurricane Helene. In Washington County, Senator Blackburn met with families who have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses during the destruction alongside Governor Bill Lee and Deputy Governor and Commissioner of Transportation for Tennessee Butch Eley. In Greene County, Senator Blackburn received an update on the reconstruction of Kinser Bridge, which was washed away in the Nolichucky River during the storm. “Our staff is working every single day to help people with flood recovery, and right now people are trying to get things cleaned up and cleaned out so they can make assessments about rebuilding and what recovery is going to look like. Our goal at the federal level is to continue to work with FEMA to get these projects completed as quickly as possible. We continue to lift up those who have felt the wrath of this storm in prayer.” – Senator Blackburn Click hereto download this photo of Senator Blackburn, Governor Lee, and First Lady Maria Lee. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/burchett-introduces-bill-ensure-va-hospitals-have-sexual-assault-nurse,Burchett introduces bill to ensure VA hospitals have sexual assault nurse examiners,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (Oct. 18, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the bipartisan Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner in VA Hospitals (SANE) Act. Democrat Reps. Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26) and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) and Republican Reps. Nancy Mace (NC-01) and Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) are co-sponsors. This bill would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that sexual assault nurse examiners are employed at certain Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities. “It’s an awful reality that some of our servicemembers are victims of sexual assault, and we need to make sure they get the care they need in those situations. These people put their safety on the line to protect our country, it’s our duty to care for them in return.” said Rep. Burchett. “VA healthcare must meet the needs of our veterans, especially when it comes to treating and documenting sexual assault,” said Rep. Kennedy. “But far too often, veterans seeking care after sexual assault are turned away. The SANE Act would require at least one practitioner who is qualified to conduct sexual assault forensic examinations at every VA hospital–empowering patients to get the treatment and documentation they need and deserve. This legislation would also direct providers to connect patients with mental health services to help ensure long-term recovery after sexual assault. I applaud Rep. Burchett for his leadership on this issue and call on my colleagues in the House to advance this critical legislation.” “Our veterans deserve the most comprehensive healthcare possible, and that must include examinations and referrals for those who have been sexually assaulted. This is a critical piece of bipartisan legislation to support survivors who have risked their lives in service to our nation, and we owe it to our heroes to make this a priority.” Said Rep. Moskowitz. ""As a survivor, I know how hard it can be to come forward. Less than half of women in the military trust their chain of command to properly handle reports of sexual assault — and that’s unacceptable. The SANE Act is about fixing this broken system. We’re making sure VA hospitals have the resources and trained professionals survivors need, so women and girls aren’t left to fend for themselves. It’s time we start holding people accountable and ensure no survivor is abandoned by the system."" Said Rep. Mace. ""We must ensure that Veterans who have suffered through traumatic sexual violence are heard and receive the support and justice they deserve. I am proud to back Congressman Burchett's legislation to protect their well-being,"" said Congresswoman Luna. ""Nurse examiners who focus on sexual assault victims are crucial in providing the necessary forensic examinations for these survivors. We must guarantee this vital care within our VA medical facilities."" Said Rep. Luna.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/harshbarger-office-makes-book-delivery-central-heights-elementary-school,Harshbarger Office Makes Book Delivery to Central Heights Elementary School,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Diana Harshbarger,H001086,harshbarger.house.gov,harshbarger,https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Kingsport, TN. - Today, staff from the office of Representative Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) visited Central Heights Elementary School in Blountville to deliver donated books from the U.S. Library of Congress. ""It is always a privilege to be able to give students the resources they need to read and learn as they grow in their education,"" said Congresswoman Harshbarger. ""I'm thankful my office was able to play a small role in supporting Central Heights Elementary and Librarian Stephanie Cronan in their efforts to create an environment where students can succeed. The U.S. Library of Congress Surplus Books Program, led by Joe Mahar, is a treasure to Tennessee's first district and I am grateful for their service. Reading is the foundation of learning, and I’m proud to support local schools in fostering a love for books and education."" Background: Library of Congress Surplus Books Program The Office of Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger has delivered thousands of books throughout East Tennessee, fulfilling requests from libraries, schools, non-profits, and qualifying early childhood and senior centers. Eligibility requirements include one of the following: Full­time, tax­ supported or non-profit educational institution: school, school system, library, childcare or early learning center, college, university, or museum as a few examples. Agency of local, state, or federal government.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-bennet-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-expand-employer-child-care-tax-credit,"Blackburn, Bennet Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Employer Child Care Tax Credit",2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), members of the Senate Committee on Finance, introduced the bipartisan Child Care for American Families Act to strengthen the employer-provided child care credit and expand support for small and rural businesses: “Many families across Tennessee and America are struggling to find reliable and affordable child care, and we need to incentivize businesses to invest in child-care services for their employees,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Child Care for American Families Act would help alleviate the financial burden of child-care costs by expanding and modernizing the Employer-Provided Child Care Tax Credit.” “Child care costs are rising nationwide, and countless families lack access to affordable, high-quality child care. This makes things that much harder for working parents, strains families’ budgets, and adds undue stress for families with young children,” said Senator Bennet. “The Child Care for American Families Act will help increase our country’s child care supply and reduce the number of Americans in child care deserts.” BACKGROUND According to the Tennessee Department of Human Services, 48 percent of Tennessee residents live in a child care desert, with disproportionate impacts felt by rural and low-income communities. The Bipartisan Policy Center found that 31.7 percent of children below the age of six with working parents do not have access to child care, and in rural communities, that number arises to 35.1 percent. THE CHILD CARE FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES ACT: Expands the employer-provided child care credit to cover a greater percentage of child care expenses, equal to: 60% for businesses in eligible rural and low-income areas, up to a maximum of $1.2 million annually; 50% for small businesses, up to a maximum of $1 million annually; and 40% for all other businesses, up to a maximum of $800,000 annually. Directs the U.S. Department of the Treasury to issue guidance on multi-employer facilities. ENDORSEMENTS The Child Care for American Families Act is endorsed by Save the Children, Colorado Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC), Kindercare, and Early Care & Education Consortium (ECEC). Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/fighting-wokeness/blackburn-to-blinken-the-state-department-s-divisive-dei-agenda-undermines-america-s-interests-abroad,Blackburn to Blinken: The State Department’s Divisive DEI Agenda Undermines America’s Interests Abroad,2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter demanding transparency from U.S. Department of State Secretary Antony Blinken on the Department’s use of taxpayer dollars to pay the salaries of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) employees instead of promoting U.S. security overseas. Last month, reporting revealed top DEI officials at the Biden-Harris State Department make nearly $200,000 each year – nearly double the pay of average State Department employees. The State Department Goes to Extreme Lengths to Prioritize Diversity Over Competence “I write with concern regarding the State Department’s use of hundreds of thousands of taxpayer funds to pay the salaries of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) employees. The State Department’s apparent willingness to go to extreme lengths to prioritize diversity over competence in formulating a workforce for the agency, whose stated mission, in part, is to ‘protect and promote U.S. security,’ is demonstrated by the hefty salaries of top DEI officials. According to financial disclosures, the position of Chief Diversity and Inclusion officer received an annual salary of $194,510, and the State Department’s Special Representative for Racial Justice and Equity receives $191,000 per year. Conversely, the base salary of the average State Department employee is just $97,000.” As Iran, China, and Russia Wage War on Democracy, the State Department’s DEI Agenda Is Offensive and Irresponsible “As you know, the current geopolitical landscape is dangerously volatile, and the United States is entangled in multiple diplomatic conflicts worldwide. Israel, one of our closest allies, is fighting an existential war against Iran’s proxy terrorist groups on several fronts, Communist China continues to threaten Taiwan’s sovereignty and bully nations in the Indo-Pacific into subservience, and Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine has now resulted in at least one million casualties on both sides. During this capricious period, it imprudent and offensive for your agency to allocate hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to support a DEI agenda that does not support, but in fact undermines, America’s interests abroad. The American people deserve transparency over the use of their tax dollars to advance a divisive ideological agenda, particularly when it comes at the expense of protecting and promoting U.S. security overseas.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/health-care/blackburn-duckworth-introduce-bill-to-increase-access-to-advanced-wheelchairs,"Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bill to Increase Access to Advanced Wheelchairs",2024-10-17,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced the Choices for Increased Mobility Act to increase access to wheelchairs made with advanced materials by allowing Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to lighter, more functional wheelchairs without bearing the entire upfront cost. These manual wheelchairs help prevent shoulder injuries, enhance maneuverability, and reduce overall pain and fatigue for users. “Too many Americans with disabilities face unnecessary barriers to obtaining the best mobility equipment to meet their needs,” said Senator Blackburn. “By making it easier for Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to wheelchairs made with advanced, lighter materials like carbon fiber and titanium, this bipartisan bill would help improve the quality of life for countless individuals. I’m pleased to work with Senator Duckworth to reduce financial burdens on those who rely on these essential devices and ensure that more people have access to the mobility solutions they deserve.” “For too long, Medicare recipients have struggled to access lighter, more functional wheelchairs that would help them get around more easily while putting significantly less strain on their bodies,” said Senator Duckworth. “Our bipartisan legislation would help ensure Medicare recipients are better able to access the wheelchairs they need to live healthier, more independent lives—with minimal cost to the federal government. It’s a win-win.” BACKGROUND Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) is a specialized subset of the Durable Medical Equipment benefit, which includes highly configurable manual and power wheelchairs, adaptive seating, and positioning systems. Among these, manual wheelchairs constructed from advanced materials like carbon fiber and titanium are significantly stronger and lighter than standard aluminum wheelchairs. When the Medicare billing code for ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs was established in 1993, materials like titanium and carbon fiber were not considered, as they were not yet in use for wheelchairs. As a result, CRT providers have struggled to supply wheelchairs with these advanced materials at the fee schedule amounts set by Medicare. Historically, Medicare allowed beneficiaries who met medical necessity requirements to upgrade their equipment by paying the difference between standard and upgraded materials. However, a policy change in 2016 removed this option, requiring beneficiaries to prepay the entire cost of the wheelchair out-of-pocket and await reimbursement for the standard portion, significantly limiting access to these advanced wheelchairs. CHOICES FOR INCREASED MOBILITY ACT The Choices for Increased Mobility Act would create two new billing codes for ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs: one for base models and another for those constructed with titanium or carbon fiber. This change would allow Medicare beneficiaries to upgrade to lighter, more functional wheelchairs without bearing the entire upfront cost. Instead, beneficiaries would only pay for the cost of the specialized materials, significantly reducing their financial burden. This bill aims to restore the option for beneficiaries to choose and pay for advanced materials for their wheelchairs without removing medical necessity requirements. It would ensure that Medicare covers the standard portion of the wheelchair cost, with beneficiaries responsible only for the upgraded materials. ENDORSEMENTS This legislation is supported by the American Association for Homecare, Permobil Americas, National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology, National Registry for Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers, Clinical Task Force, The VGM Group, U.S. Rehab, Association for Tennessee Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment Services, Great Lakes Home Medical Services Association, Midwest Association for Medical Equipment Services, Southwest Medical Equipment Suppliers Association, Alabama Durable Medical Equipment Association, Michigan HomeCare & Hospice Association, Pennsylvania Association of Medical Suppliers, Georgia Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers, Texas Medical Equipment Providers Association, Home Medical Equipment and Services Association of New England, Georgia Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers, Florida Alliance of Home Care Services, Atlantic Coast Medical Equipment Services Association, Northeast Medical Equipment Providers Association, Nevada Association of Medical Product Suppliers, Big Sky Association of Home Medical Equipment Suppliers, Pacific Association for Medical Equipment Services, Colorado Association for Medical Equipment Services, California Association of Medical Product Suppliers, Ohio Association of Medical Equipment Services, and Arkansas Medical Equipment Providers. “We are so fortunate to be able to work with leaders like Senator Blackburn and Senator Duckworth who share our passion for supporting people with disabilities,” said Tom Ryan, President & CEO of the American Association for Homecare. “Their work to improve access to lightweight wheelchairs is the latest example of their commitment to ensuring people with mobility challenges can remain actively engaged in their communities.” “Our mission will always be to enable those with disabilities to live life with independence by providing aides of the same technical standards that we all use in our daily lives. S. 5154 is a common sense, budget neutral solution that empowers individuals with the choice to access to the many benefits of titanium or carbon fiber wheelchair frames,” said Chuck Witkowski, President of Permobil Americas. “We are immensely grateful to Senators Blackburn and Duckworth and thank them for their continued leadership and support of this community.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-recognizes-domestic-violence-awareness-month,VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month,2024-10-16,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and calling on the Senate to pass her bipartisan legislation to better protect women nationwide from domestic violence before the end of the year. One in four women will face physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. Some women, even at their most vulnerable and isolated, will continue going to the salon and building relationships with their cosmetologists. The bipartisan bill, the SALONS Stories Act, would empower beauty professionals to recognize and respond to domestic violence. Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the SALONS Stories Act. “Every year, there's about 5 million occurrences of domestic violence against women age 18 and older, and there are things that we can do. There is awareness that can be built. One item we're pushing forward in the U.S. Senate is the SALONS Stories Act. This is legislation that will provide training for estheticians and beauticians so that they are able to look for the signs of domestic violence and then intercede and get help for people who are victims and need that help.” – Senator Blackburn RELATED: Blackburn, Duckworth Introduce Bill To Help Cosmetologists Recognize & Respond To Domestic Violence",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-grassley-bicameral-colleagues-call-out-abuses-in-the-biden-harris-unaccompanied-migrant-children-program,"Blackburn, Grassley, Bicameral Colleagues Call Out Abuses in the Biden-Harris Unaccompanied Migrant Children Program",2024-10-15,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and 42 bicameral Republican colleagues in a letter urging President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to work with Congress to root out abuses in their administration’s unaccompanied migrant children program and stop the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) cover-up of the crisis. HHS has failed to comply with two out of every three U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) subpoenas and other information requests issued amid its investigation into more than 100 suspicious sponsors. The lawmakers are urging Biden and Harris to “make changes to [their] policies and procedures” in order to “end this public safety crisis.” They are specifically calling on the Biden-Harris administration to enhance information sharing with law enforcement and Congress, fully cooperate with DHS’s child exploitation investigation, and thoroughly respond to all congressional oversight requests. “[The Biden-Harris HHS] must stop its cover-up and cooperate with law enforcement and Congress to end this crisis and protect unaccompanied children and the American people,” the lawmakers concluded. BACKGROUND: More than 500,000 unaccompanied migrant children have crossed the southwest border under the Biden-Harris administration, while cartel trafficking activity surged an estimated 2,500 percent. Amid this crisis, the lawmakers note that the Biden-Harris administration limited background checks for sponsors of unaccompanied children, cut back on familial DNA testing at the border and decreased information sharing with law enforcement. In addition to hampering DHS’s child exploitation investigation, the Biden-Harris HHS attempted to obstruct oversight of HHS contractors, including Southwest Key. HHS has also defied House Judiciary Committee subpoenas. CO-SPONSORS: Joining Senators Blackburn and Grassley in signing the letter are Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), along with Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Roger Marshall (R-Kans.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.). Additional co-signers in the House include Representatives Tom McLintock (R-Ca.), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Dan Bishop (R-N.C.), Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.), Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.), Ben Cline (R-Va.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Russell Fry (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Wesley Hunt (R-Texas), Laurel Lee (R-Fla.), and Michael Rulli (R-Ohio).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-introduces-bill-protect-american-military-stockpiles,Rep. Burchett introduces bill to protect American military stockpiles,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (October 11, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the Safeguarding Our Stockpiles (SOS) Act to restore the presidential drawdown authority (PDA) to its original intent, as a last-resort safeguard. “President Biden has abused his authority to send nearly $24 billion in weapons to Ukraine,” said Rep. Burchett. “Congress needs to put him in check. He clearly needs better guidance on how he can use this authority the American people entrusted to him.” When the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) was enacted in 1961, the intent was to use this authority as a last resort measure to ensure our country was protected even in the most extreme unforeseen emergency situations. However, since 2021, the Biden administration has abused this authority and used loopholes in the statute to arm Ukraine with nearly $24 billion worth of U.S. equipment in 57 separate drawdowns. This has stripped our stockpiles bare and left our country unprepared for future emergencies. The Safeguarding Our Stockpiles Act makes four changes to the existing Presidential Drawdown Authority statute to restore it to its initial intent: Removes ambiguity about what constitutes an “unforeseen emergency” and defines it as a kinetic attack against a bilateral or multilateral treaty ally, reasonably unforeseen by U.S. intelligence, and which poses an imminent threat to the U.S. security interests. Prohibits the President from accessing more stockpiles than the U.S. has the capacity to replenish. Automatically sunsets any unused drawdown authority at the end of the fiscal year, requiring new authorization for subsequent deliveries and preventing cases from remaining open indefinitely. Requires Congress to approve every drawdown that exceeds the $100 million cap in a given year, including authorizing sufficient appropriations to replenish the stockpiles.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-demand-tiktok-documents,Blackburn & Blumenthal Demand TikTok Documents,2024-10-11,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn), authors of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, wrote TikTok CEO Shou Chew requesting “documents, communications, and research held by TikTok regarding the safety of minors on its platform.” The request follows reports of a court filing from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office revealing TikTok executives’ awareness of the platform’s harm to young people and subsequent disregard of the mental and physical dangers the platform poses to children and teens. BACKGROUND: In the letters, the Senators requested that TikTok provide documents and information previously produced to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and other states’ Attorneys General. The full text of the letter can be found .",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/blackburn-ernst-to-tiktok-celebrating-female-athletes-is-not-hate-speech,"Blackburn, Ernst to TikTok: Celebrating Female Athletes Is Not Hate Speech",2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) sent a letter to TikTok Chief Executive Officer Shou Zi Chew regarding the platform’s decision to ban and label pro-women’s sports advertisements as “hate speech” while simultaneously allowing graphic advertisements promoting transgender surgery for minors on the platform. TikTok’s Ban of Pro-Women Sports Ads Is Only Latest Example of Attempt to Indoctrinate Users “We write to you today regarding TikTok’s decision to ban pro-women’s sports advertisements as ‘hate speech,’ while allowing ads promoting transgender surgery for minors on the platform. This is yet another example of TikTok’s attempted indoctrination of its users, in addition to instances where TikTok has deplatformed notable female athletes—like Bethany Hamilton and Riley Gaines—simply for advocating for fair play. These blatant examples of bias further call into question the extent to which TikTok levies its influence over Americans for nefarious purposes.” TikTok Labeled Small Business Advertisement Celebrating Female Achievement in Sports as “Offensive” and “Hate Speech” “Reporting from June indicates that TikTok banned XX-XY Athletics—an American owned small business that supports biological women in sports—from advertising on the platform… TikTok labeled the content offensive and, later, hate speech. The advertisement deemed hateful by TikTok was simply a celebration of female achievement—using a real life example—and encouraged young women to ‘be honest and be brave.’ Supporting young women should never be offensive, and it is telling that TikTok would consider a celebration of our girls in sports as worthy of being banned.” Meanwhile, TikTok Allows Graphic Ads Promoting Transgender Surgery for Minors “Even more troubling are the advertisements that TikTok does permit on its platform. TikTok allows woke advertisements in an attempt to mold Americans’ minds on a litany of issues. One of the most concerning advertisements that TikTok allows, though, is an advertisement promoting transgender surgery for minors. The sponsored content shows a teenage girl who recently had a double mastectomy, exposing her surgery in graphic detail. TikTok allowing this advertisement to run on minors’ feeds is the height of hypocrisy from a platform that suppresses conservative speech while profiting from leftist propaganda.” Protecting Female Athletes Is Not Controversial – Nearly 70% of Americans Agree Athletes Should Only Be Allowed to Compete Against Their Own Biological Sex “Almost 70% of Americans agree that athletes should only be allowed to compete on sports teams that correspond with their sex at birth. There is nothing controversial or hateful about the fact that men and women have biological differences, and any argument to the contrary is simply an attack on our nation’s women and girls. Not only is TikTok a threat to every American’s privacy and our national security, but it also threatens free speech and the rights of parents to rear their children in the way they see fit—rights fundamental to who we are as Americans. TikTok should immediately stop their assault on America’s young women and small businesses and allow companies that promote biological women in sports to advertise on the platform.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-celebrates-female-athletes-on-october-10,VIDEO: Blackburn Celebrates Female Athletes on October 10,2024-10-10,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video celebrating women’s athletic achievements on October 10th after introducing a resolution earlier this year to designate 10/10 as ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’ Despite the fact that nearly70% of Americans agree athletes should only be allowed to compete on teams that correspond with their sex at birth, Senate Democrats blocked the effort to pass this resolution last month. Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’ “In 2022, the Biden-Harris Department of Education announced new rules that would actually force schools to allow biological men to play on female teams. This regulation really does undermine women's sports, so I introduced legislation that would establish a day, October 10th, as ‘American Girls in Sports Day.’ The Democrats went to the floor and blocked that resolution, but October 10th should still be a day we set aside and celebrate our female athletes. In the last 50 years, since the signing of Title IX, female athletes have really gone from the sidelines to center stage. That is something to celebrate.” – Senator Blackburn RELATED: Senate Democrats Block Blackburn’s Effort to Establish “American Girls in Sports Day” Blackburn Leads Resolution To Recognize ‘American Girls In Sports Day’",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/military/blackburn-tennessee-officials-tour-disaster-relief-center-and-receive-update-on-i-40-repairs-in-east-tennessee,"Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Tour Disaster Relief Center and Receive Update on I-40 Repairs in East Tennessee",2024-10-08,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) toured the Northeast Tennessee Disaster Relief Center at Bristol Motor Speedway, which currently serves as a major donation and collection site, provides logistics for search-and-rescue operations, and houses a regional disaster relief hotline. After the tour, Senator Blackburn, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, and U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) held a media availability. Senator Blackburn then heard from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) at I-40 in Cocke County about the steps the agency is taking to repair damages along the vital roadway that connects North Carolina and Tennessee. Following the update, Senator Blackburn, Governor Lee, Representative Harshbarger, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Commissioner of Transportation for Tennessee and Deputy Governor Butch Eley, and other Tennessee officials held a media availability. “I want to say a heartfelt thank you to the Governor’s team and to the TDOT Commissioner for working so quickly on all of this. Tennesseans who still need assistance getting documents can visit our website, blackburn.senate.gov/Helene. They can view that webpage in English or Spanish and find out where to get help and how to give help. We are also beginning pop-up office hours this week in affected counties to help residents access the critical federal resources they need.” – Senator Blackburn Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn and Representative Harshbarger with members of the Tennessee National Guard at Bristol Motor Speedway. RELATED: Blackburn Announces Pop-Up Office Hours to Assist Flood Victims in East Tennessee Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Survey Storm Damage and Meet with Flood Victims in East Tennessee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-requests-answers-freddie-mac-remote-employee-scandal,Rep. Rose Requests Answers from Freddie Mac on Remote Employee Scandal,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) sent a letter to the CEO of Freddie Mac, Diana Reid, expressing concerns about the effectiveness of Freddie Mac’s oversight and management of teleworking employees following a recent incident involving a former remote employee accused of holding a separate six-figure job at the same time. The since-terminated employee was simultaneously serving as D.C. Department of Buildings (DOB) Deputy Director while working at Freddie Mac, a violation that resulted in a $25,000 fine. The employee also served as a member of the Falls Church City Council who regularly attended meetings during the work day. While the employee has since been terminated from their position, Rep. Rose is seeking answers to a list of questions which can be found in the full letter here or read in full below. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “The American people deserve to know if this is an isolated incident or if corruption is running rampant through lax enforcement of teleworking policies throughout government,” said Rep. Rose. “I hope Freddie Mac takes this as a learning lesson and looks within its organization to seriously improve its remote employee policies. Those continuing to abuse the system or found responsible for enabling this to happen must be immediately fired or face the proper disciplinary measures. Correcting these egregious mistakes will go a long way in restoring Americans’ trust in Freddie Mac.” Full letter: “Dear Ms. Reid, “I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent incident involving Caroline Lian, a former Freddie Mac employee who secretly held a six-figure job with the D.C. Department of Buildings while working full-time at Freddie Mac. Concurrently, Ms. Lian was also serving on the Falls Church (Virginia) City Council for which she received a salary of $9,200. “What is most concerning about the conduct of Ms. Lian is how she split her time between these three different positions. The D.C. Board of Ethics and Government Accountability (BEGA) found that she never acknowledged on the required financial disclosures that she was also working at Freddie Mac along with the Department of Buildings. As a result, Ms. Lian was able to leverage a remote working schedule at Freddie Mac so that she only had to come into the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays while working the reverse schedule at the Department of Buildings. BEGA also found that she performed essential work functions on behalf of Freddie Mac from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday when she should have been working for the Department of Buildings. While it is good to hear that Ms. Lian is no longer employed by Freddie Mac after her egregious violation of employee expectations, this incident raises significant questions about the effectiveness of Freddie Mac's oversight and management of teleworking employees. “I request that you provide detailed answers to the following questions: What steps is Freddie Mac taking to ensure that employees are not engaging in outside employment without proper disclosure and approval? Will Freddie Mac require employees to sign an annual statement, under penalty of perjury, disclosing all their outside jobs? Will Freddie Mac consider instituting ""all hands on deck"" weeks, requiring all employees to work from the office for full weeks at a time? How much did Ms. Lian earn each year she was employed at Freddie Mac? Did Ms. Lian earn any overtime benefits during her employment, and if so, how much? Did Ms. Lian earn any bonuses during her employment, and if so, how much? Would Freddie Mac be willing to publicly release any performance evaluations that Ms. Lian received? On average, how many hours per week does Freddie Mac suspect Ms. Lian was actually working? Has Freddie Mac referred this case to federal prosecutors for criminal prosecution? Has Freddie Mac recovered all funds paid to Ms. Lian for time she did not actually work? Who was Ms. Lian's direct supervisor, and will that individual face disciplinary measures for failing to supervise her adequately? Has all of Ms. Lian's work been investigated to ensure it was adequately carried out? “Additionally, I request information on the following: Will Freddie Mac consider cutting back on tele-work as a result of this incident? In the last five years, has Freddie Mac uncovered any other instances of employees improperly working outside jobs? If so, please provide details.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-marks-one-year-hamas-barbaric-attack-israel,Congressman Kustoff Marks One Year Since Hamas' Barbaric Attack on Israel,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) recently spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives to mark one year since Hamas' barbaric attack on Israel. Click here to watch his remarks or read them as prepared below: I rise today to mark the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ vicious and horrific attack on Israel. As we all know, in the early morning of October 7th, Hamas invaded and brutally attacked Israel and her people—murdering over 1200 innocent men, women, and children, including over 35 Americans. These terrorists violently took hostages, including Americans. In the weeks after the attacks, I watched a 47-minute video taken on October 7th along with other member of Congress. All of us who saw the images and heard the words and the language of that day were horrified. The savagery, barbarism, violence, and pure hatred against Israel and the Jewish people is indescribable in that video. Indeed, the world changed forever on that day. Now, nearly one year later, Hamas still has innocent hostages captive and we continue to see a rise in antisemitism across the globe and in our own nation. I am honored to serve as Chairman of the House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group. I am also proud that the group is bipartisan. In July, I traveled to Israel to meet with Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. When I was there, I reiterated that the United States House of Representatives continues to stand with Israel. I told Israeli leadership that our nation will ensure that Israel has the resources it needs to defend itself. I also had the opportunity to visit Kfar Aza, a kibbutz in southern Israel, as well as the site of the Tribe of Nova music festival with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). I got to tell you, it was deeply moving to stand where Hamas invaded, and frankly, just murdered and butchered so many innocent Israelis. When I was there, I met and talked with family members and heard the real-life stories of those who survived, those who are being held captive, and those who were brutally and viciously mutilated and murdered. I must tell you that I am truly impressed by the resilience of the Israeli people, by their hope, and their strong morale against the barbarism that tries to stifle the will of Israel. The United States stands unequivocally with our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel. Israel fights an enemy that not only seeks the elimination of Israel, but more broadly, the elimination of Western values like freedom, liberty, and democracy. Prime Minister Netanyahu told us as much when he spoke right here giving an address to a joint session of Congress back in July. It is so important that we come together and ensure that Israel has the resources and support they need to combat this evil. We also continue to condemn the blatant and brazen forms of antisemitism that have arisen here, in the United States, and around the world. Such hatred can't be tolerated in the halls of Congress, nor anywhere else in this country or the world. This is a matter of good vs. evil and life vs. death. Israel and the U.S. are committed to defeating Hamas and ensuring all the hostages are returned home. But we can't stop there, we have got to work together to wipe terrorism off the face of the Earth and we must ensure Israel can live in peace with her neighbors. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-knesset-parliamentary-friendship-group-joint-statement-one-year-hamas-0,House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group Joint Statement One-Year Since Hamas Terrorist Attack on Israel,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman David Kustoff (R-TN) and Ranking Member Dean Phillips (D-MN), as well as Knesset Co-Chairs MK Boaz Bissmuth and MK Idan Roll, released the following statement from the House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group: “One year ago today, barbaric Hamas terrorists invaded Israel and murdered over 1200 innocent men, women, and children, including over 40 Americans, and took over 250 hostages. That morning, the world changed forever. “On October 7, 2023, people were slaughtered, burned alive, raped, and kidnapped. However, this day is not only defined by grief and loss, but also a testament to human strength, unity, and solidarity. Terrorism does not distinguish between religions, nationalities, or ethnicities. It targets humanity. “The United States and Israel are unified in our effort to strengthen regional stability, counter terrorism, and increase security. In recent years, the partnership between our two nations has only grown stronger. “The House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group will continue to work together to combat terror organizations that have called for the elimination of the State of Israel, and further wish to end democracy and destabilize the free world. “The world must never forget the atrocities that occurred on October 7th, and the innocent victims who lost their lives. We will not rest until all the hostages are returned home, Hamas and Hezbollah are defeated, and Iran stands down.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-statement-anniversary-october-7th-attacks,Rep. Ogles Statement on the Anniversary of the October 7th Attacks,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBIA, TN–Today, Rep. Andy Ogles (TN-05) released the following statement on the anniversary of the October 7th Attacks on Israel. ""It's been one year since the horrific Hamas terror attacks against innocent Israelis. As our strongest ally in the Middle East, Israel has stood firm on the frontlines, repelling the savage brutality of radical Islamic terrorists thirsty for more bloodshed. A year ago, infants were raped, families were hunted down, and hundreds were slaughtered. Some innocent souls are still being held hostage. The evil of Hamas terrorists is felt by millions. Sadly, many deceived and hateful sympathizers continue to deny the reality of the horrors from October 7th. America must remain unwavering in its support for Israel as they defend their land and their people. We must remember October 7th, not only for the atrocities committed but as the spark that will drive Israel's ultimate victory over the jihadists.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/israel/video-blackburn-marks-one-year-since-barbaric-october-7th-attack-on-israel,VIDEO: Blackburn Marks One Year Since Barbaric October 7th Attack on Israel,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack on Israel that claimed the lives of more than 1,200 people: Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing the October 7th attack against Israel. “Today, on October 7, it is important for us to pause and to remember what happened one year ago today, and it is important for us to recommit ourselves in supporting Israel and making certain that Israel has what they need to protect themselves.” – Senator Blackburn RELATED: Blackburn, Graham, Rubio, Colleagues Condemn Palestinian Effort Targeting Israel at UN Blackburn, Graham, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Condemning Any Action by the Biden Administration To Withhold Ammunition Or Weapons For Israel Blackburn Statement On Terrorist Attacks Against Israel",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-announces-pop-up-office-hours-to-assist-flood-victims-in-east-tennessee,Blackburn Announces Pop-Up Office Hours to Assist Flood Victims in East Tennessee,2024-10-07,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in counties across East Tennessee, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) announced pop-up office hours in affected counties for staff to provide immediate assistance to flood victims: “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the recent flooding,” said Senator Blackburn. “As we continue to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to support recovery efforts, I want to ensure that every impacted resident has access to the resources they need.” ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Pop-up office hours will be available to help residents access critical federal resources and navigate replacing any federal documentation that may be needed to receive federal assistance, including social security cards, veteran records, and tax information. Staff can also assist flood victims in following up on disaster assistance applications with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Constituents are encouraged to bring any relevant documentation with them, such as proof of residency and identification, to streamline the process. For those unable to attend pop-up office hours, assistance remains available at Senator Blackburn’s state offices or at https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/helene. For more information on pop-up office hours, please contact (423) 753-4009. SCHEDULE AND LOCATIONS: Tuesday, October 8, 2024 – Johnson and Carter Counties Johnson County Courthouse - Lower Courtroom 9:00AM – 12:00PM ET 222 West Main Street Mountain City, TN 37683 Carter County Courthouse - Mayor's Conference Room 2:00PM – 5:00PM ET 801 E Elk Ave Elizabethton, TN 37643 Wednesday, October 9, 2024 – Washington and Unicoi Counties Jonesborough Visitors Center Community Room 9:00AM – 12:00PM ET 117 Boone St. Jonesborough, TN 37659 Erwin City Hall 2:00PM – 5:00PM ET 211 N Main Ave Erwin, TN 37650 Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Greene and Cocke Counties Greene County Annex 9:00AM – 12:00PM ET 204 N Cutler St. Greeneville, TN 37745 Cocke County Recreation Center 2:00PM – 5:00PM ET 466 Learning Way Newport, TN 37821 Friday, October 11, 2024 – Hamblen and Hawkins Counties Hamblen County Mayor's Office 9:00AM – 12:00PM ET 511 W 2nd St. Morristown, TN 37814 Mayor's Office Admin Building 2:00PM – 5:00PM ET 301 E. Washington St. Rogersville, TN 37857",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-secures-745000-university-tennessee-martin,"Congressman Kustoff Secures $745,000 for the University of Tennessee at Martin",2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) recently helped secure a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Capacity Building Grant for Non-land-grant Colleges of Agriculture worth $745,000 for the University of Tennessee at Martin. ""I am pleased to have helped secure this important funding for the University of Tennessee at Martin,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""Farmers are the backbone of West Tennessee's economy and supporting non-land grant colleges of agriculture is one of my main priorities in Washington. It is important to ensure our next generation of farmers have the resources they need to succeed."" ""The research and outreach provided by this federal funding will positively affect the UT Martin campus, Weakley County Schools, and West Tennessee as well as the service area of our Innov8Africa partner for years. The quality of this project is confirmed by the fact that NIFA requested an increase in scope of the project with an additional $50,000 added to the original budget request,"" said Dr. Yancy E. Freeman, Chancellor of the University of Tennessee at Martin. Congressman Kustoff secured this funding by leading a letter to the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies sent on March 24, 2023. The Capacity Building Grants for Non-land-grant Colleges of Agriculture (NLGCA) Program assists NLGCA-certified institutions in maintaining and expanding their capacity to conduct education, research, outreach/extension, and integrated activities relating to agriculture, renewable resources, and similar disciplines. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/military/blackburn-on-mcghee-tyson-ang-base-s-advancement-in-competition-to-become-main-operating-base-for-kc-46-aircraft,Blackburn on McGhee Tyson ANG Base’s Advancement in Competition to Become Main Operating Base for KC-46 Aircraft,2024-10-04,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the 134th Air Refueling Wing at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard (ANG) Base outside of Knoxville, Tennessee, was selected for the final phase of competition to house the U.S. Department of the Air Force’s next generation of air refueling aircraft, the KC-46 Pegasus: “With decades of proven experience and service, McGhee Tyson ANG Base would be the perfect fit to receive and employ the KC-46, and I applaud the Air Force’s decision to keep Tennessee in the running,” said Senator Blackburn. Earlier this year, Senator Blackburn led the entire Tennessee congressional delegation in sending a letter urging U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall III to make McGhee Tyson ANG Base the seventh main operating base for the KC-46. Senator Blackburn recently spoke with Air Force officials, who informed her of the Department’s decision to keep Tennessee in the running between seven possible locations. Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn with Airmen of Tennessee’s 134th Air Refueling Wing. BACKGROUND: McGhee Tyson ANG Base boasts over 68 years of volunteer excellence and service to the Air Force. The unit has received a remarkable 16 Air Force Outstanding Unit awards and is one of the most decorated air refueling units in Air Force history. KC-46 acquisition is the Tennessee Air National Guard’s number one short-term priority. Securing KC-46 aircraft for McGhee Tyson ANG Base will preserve over 1,500 jobs and $203 million annually for decades to come. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-statement-misinformation-surrounding-hurricane-helene-relief,Rep. Burchett statement on misinformation surrounding Hurricane Helene relief efforts,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (October 3, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) released the following statement regarding misinformation surrounding the ongoing relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. “There's been a bunch of misinformation on the internet surrounding relief efforts in my state, and I felt it was my duty to weigh in due to the seriousness of the situation. I appreciate the Tennessee National Guard stepping up, as well as the emergency rescue personnel and volunteers on the ground.” said Rep. Burchett. As of today, the Tennessee National Guard has: Deployed 401 soldiers and airmen Delivered 67,500 lbs of food and water Delivered 1,500 lbs of miscellaneous household supplies Removed 93 truckloads of debris Rescued 105 citizens via airlift The Department of Defense has also approved the Title 10 request for active duty personnel and equipment to be deployed. TEMA (Tennessee Emergency Management Agency) has also received 100 Starlink satellite-based systems to improve communication as they respond to the crisis on the ground.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center?ID=17D9B3F1-AFFE-4136-9A7B-8DB43C6D6177,DESJARLAIS SENDS LETTER TO ICE DEPUTY DIRECTOR,2024-10-03,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Scott DesJarlais,D000616,desjarlais.house.gov,desjarlais,https://desjarlais.house.gov/media-center,scraper,"(WASHINGTON, D.C.) –Congressman Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04) authored a letter to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Deputy Director Patrick Lechleitner requesting answers for the lack of data and tracking of illegal migrant juveniles committing crimes and that there is no vetting process for juvenile border crossers. “In addition to the 662,566 illegal aliens with criminal records that are freely roaming the U.S., creating broad national security risks, it appears that no government entity is currently tracking undocumented minors with criminal history, nor are minors attempting to seek entry undergoing any sort of vetting process,” DesJarlais states in his letter. The Tennessee congressman points out that there is a growing number of reports around the U.S. of illegal alien juveniles who are committing violent crimes. In his own state of Tennessee just this last summer three illegal migrant teenagers robbed a gun store. And in New York City where an 11-year-old undocumented boy was arrested for being the primary aggressor in a subway robbery. Also in Louisiana, Governor Landry has stated that several gangs are recruiting undocumented minors to commit crimes on their behalf. ""These stories represent just a few of the mounting criminal reports nationwide. It is baffling to me and millions of other Americans that even though there has been a significant number of crimes reported amongst juvenile illegal immigrants, the Biden-Harris Administration has not instituted any type of vetting for gang affiliation or a simple criminal background check of minors crossing the border illegally,” he wrote. Rep. DesJarlais concluded the letter by asking Lechleitner a comprehensive series of questions about the number of undocumented minors committing crimes and the vetting process for juvenile border crossers. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/kustoff-holds-tax-roundtable-tennessee-business-leaders,Kustoff Holds Tax Roundtable with Tennessee Business Leaders,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) held a roundtable discussion in Shelby County with the Main Street Coalition, including the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America. Congressman Kustoff discussed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provisions that are set to expire in 2025 and heard from local business leaders about their priorities for an upcoming tax package in Congress. ""In 2025, the Republican tax cuts that brought relief to families and businesses across the nation are set to expire,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, the chief tax writing committee in Congress, I am working to ensure these provisions are extended and taxes are not increased for Americans. That is why I held this roundtable today, to hear from local business leaders about their priorities for an upcoming tax package. As individuals and businesses grapple with rampant inflation, the last thing they need is Uncle Sam taking more of their hard-earned dollars out of their bank account."" “The vast majority of America’s independent wine and spirits wholesalers are family-owned businesses that have been in operation for generations. Since 2017, our members have been able to invest billions across the country into their employees, facilities, and communities and the business leaders who joined us today have similar stories. The importance of this conversation and Section 199A to the well-being of small and family-owned businesses across Tennessee and the rest of the country can’t be overstated,” said Dwayne Carson, Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America Senior Director, Federal Affairs. Pictures from the day: Background: In 2017, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. TCJA was the first major reform to the federal tax code in over thirty years, changing the individual income rates, the corporate tax rate, rules for estate and retirement planning, and taxes for small businesses. These Republican tax cuts brought relief to working and middle-class families and led to one of the strongest economies in U.S. history. However, if Congress does not act by the end of 2025, these provisions, among others, will expire. That will mean a significant tax increase on virtually all American taxpayers and businesses. The House Ways and Means Committee has divided up into Tax Teams to focus on each provision. Congressman Kustoff is the Vice Chair of the Supply Chain Tax Team which has jurisdiction over the corporate rate, capital gains, and energy related tax credits. Additionally, he sits on the Rural America team, which has jurisdiction over the estate tax. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-tillis-colleagues-make-bipartisan-push-for-quick-passage-of-hurricane-helene-disaster-relief-legislation,"Blackburn, Tillis, Colleagues Make Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Legislation",2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and 10 of their Senate colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.), and Senate Appropriations Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) on the urgent need to pass a disaster relief package to support the millions of Americans affected by Hurricane Helene: “The devastation from Hurricane Helene across the southeastern United States is simply inconceivable…Because of a lack of cell service, we anticipate even greater tragedy to unfold in the days and weeks ahead as communications and power are restored and we can understand the full scope of this disaster,” the Senators wrote. “Even preliminary damage assessments indicate that, at a minimum, the total damage and economic loss will be in the tens of billions of dollars. This amount will likely soar as recovery efforts continue and the full picture of this ruinous disaster becomes clear,” the Senators continued. “Although the true level of devastation is still unfolding, it is clear that Congress must act to meet the unmet needs in our states and address the scope and scale of destruction experienced by our constituents. This may even require Congress to come back in October to ensure we have enough time to enact legislation before the end of this calendar year. Tens of millions of Americans were impacted by Hurricane Helene, and we look forward to working with you to provide relief to those impacted by this horrific storm,” the Senators concluded. CO-SPONSORS: Senators Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) also signed the letter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/icymi-blackburn-speaks-with-wjhl-in-flooding-aftermath,ICYMI: Blackburn Speaks with WJHL in Flooding Aftermath,2024-10-02,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 about the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in communities across East Tennessee and the federal government’s response to the crisis: Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11 about Hurricane Helene. Blackburn, Hagerty, Harshbarger tour flood damage and answer questions Anslee Daniel WJHL News Channel 11 Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn spent the day touring damaged areas in Northeast Tennessee, speaking to those impacted and answering questions. Local leaders, including U.S. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, joined them at the destroyed I-26 bridge in Unicoi County to survey the damage and hear an update on recovery and rebuilding efforts. Interviews with Blackburn, Hagerty and Harshbarger can be watched below: LINK TO SENATOR BLACKBURN INTERVIEW RELATED: Blackburn, Tillis, Colleagues Make Bipartisan Push for Quick Passage of Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Legislation Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Survey Storm Damage and Meet with Flood Victims in East Tennessee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-statement-iran-attack-against-israel,Rep. Burchett statement on Iran attack against Israel,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (October 1, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) released the following statement about Iran’s ballistic missile attack against Israel: “The United States needs to stand fully with Israel as it defends itself against Iran’s attacks. For our part, it’s time to start playing hardball with Iran. We need to cut off their resources and make sure they don’t come out of this unscathed.” On October 1, 2024, Iran launched a series of ballistic missiles toward Israel. An Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson said, “The IDF is doing and will continue to do everything necessary to protect the civilians of Israel.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/blackburn-tennessee-officials-survey-storm-damage-and-meet-with-flood-victims-in-east-tennessee,"Blackburn, Tennessee Officials Survey Storm Damage and Meet with Flood Victims in East Tennessee",2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) surveyed storm damage and met with flood victims and local officials across East Tennessee, which has been significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene. Senator Blackburn visited a shelter at Elizabethton High School, a residential neighborhood cleanup in Hampton, and a distribution center at Southside Freewill Baptist Church in Erwin. Senator Blackburn, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), U.S. Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director Patrick Sheehan, and other Tennessee officials held a media availability at the I-26 East Bridge in Unicoi County over Nolichucky River. “Throughout the day, I heard from families, local officials, first responders, and volunteers who have seen and experienced devastating loss in the wake of Hurricane Helene. It was heartbreaking to hear from Tennesseans who lost everything due to this tragedy. We will continue to work with federal, state, and local officials to make sure impacted families have the support they urgently need. We will not allow the federal government to neglect Tennesseans and will ensure all resources are provided to help folks rebuild.” – Senator Blackburn Click hereto download photos from Senator Blackburn’s stops in Carter County and Unicoi County. RELATED: Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Updated Disaster Declaration Requesting Additional Assistance Following Hurricane Helene Sen. Blackburn, Gov. Lee, Rep. Harshbarger Survey Storm Damage in East Tennessee Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Disaster Declaration Following Hurricane Helene Flash Flooding",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-leads-tennessee-delegation-in-urging-swift-approval-of-updated-disaster-declaration-requesting-additional-assistance-following-hurricane-helene,Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Updated Disaster Declaration Requesting Additional Assistance Following Hurricane Helene,2024-10-01,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"ERWIN, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led the Tennessee Congressional delegation in sending a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to swiftly approve Governor Bill Lee’s request for an updated major disaster declaration in the wake of flash flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene. Governor Lee requested individual assistance and other necessary federal resources to respond to the devastation from Hurricane Helene. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial assistance and direct services to eligible individuals and households affected by a disaster, who have uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and serious needs. Read full the letter here or below. Dear Mr. President: We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather beginning on September 26, 2024. The remnants of Hurricane Helene have caused widespread damage across Tennessee, especially in East Tennessee. The unprecedented amount of rainfall in the region had devastating consequences, with some areas receiving up to 12 inches of rainfall. Multiple rivers in the state neared or exceeded historical flood stage records, and multiple dams overtopped or were under imminent threat of failure. Catastrophic flash flooding has devastated communities across East Tennessee, causing I-40 to collapse and leaving homes destroyed, businesses underwater, and widespread power outages. In fact, many areas are expected to be without power for weeks. As of September 30, approximately 20 water treatment facilities reported disruptions, impacting over 160,000 Tennesseans. 77 school districts experienced disruptions due to the extreme weather event. Sadly, the Tennessee Department of Health attributed the flooding to the deaths of six Tennesseans, and the search continues for over 100 individuals in impacted counties. We are grateful to the heroic actions of first responders on the local, state, and federal level for their work up to this point. To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting Individual Assistance for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington Counties. He is also requesting Public Assistance, including direct Federal assistance, for Carter, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington Counties, and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The Governor further requests 100 percent federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective services—Categories A and B—under the Public Assistance program for the first 45 days of the incident, beginning on September 26, 2024. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible. Our offices can provide you with any additional information you need. CO-SIGNERS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-statement-passing-governor-winfield-dunn,Congressman Kustoff Statement on Passing of Governor Winfield Dunn,2024-09-28,2024,2024-09,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) released the following statement regarding the death of former Governor Winfield Dunn: ""Roberta and I are saddened to hear about the passing of Governor Winfield Dunn. He was a favorite son of West Tennessee who, through his service, inspired so many people all across the state of Tennessee. We are especially thinking about Betty, his favorite first lady and best girl, whom you rarely saw without him, and whose life exemplified a life well-lived. ""I was honored to travel, campaign, and work with Governor Dunn on many occasions, and I always came away understanding that public service done right has the ability to change the lives of so many people. ""Our prayers are with the entire Dunn family today as we truly celebrate a good man and a great public servant for the state of Tennessee."" ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/blackburn-leads-tennessee-delegation-in-urging-swift-approval-of-disaster-declaration-following-hurricane-helene-flash-flooding,Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Disaster Declaration Following Hurricane Helene Flash Flooding,2024-09-28,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) led the Tennessee delegation in sending a letter to President Joe Biden urging him to swiftly approve Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration in the wake of flash flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Helene. Read the full letter here or below. Dear Mr. President: We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee’s request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather occurring on September 26 and 27, 2024. The remnants of Hurricane Helene have caused widespread damage across Tennessee, especially in East Tennessee. An estimated 6 to 10 inches of rain has fallen across the eastern part of the state over the past 48 hours. Catastrophic flash flooding has devastated communities across East Tennessee, causing I-40 to collapse and leaving homes destroyed. The Unicoi County Hospital has been inundated with flood waters, and patients and staff were forced to take shelter on the roof to await rescue. Over 75,500 power outages were reported statewide. With the heaviest rains expected to shift through Middle and West Tennessee over the weekend, more damage is expected. To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting an Emergency Declaration, Categories A and B, including Direct Federal Assistance. Governor Lee’s request is attached. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible. Our offices can provide you with any additional information you need. CO-SIGNERS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/sen-blackburn-gov-lee-rep-harshbarger-survey-storm-damage-in-east-tennessee,"Sen. Blackburn, Gov. Lee, Rep. Harshbarger Survey Storm Damage in East Tennessee",2024-09-28,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), along with Governor Bill Lee, Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Tenn.), and Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director Patrick Sheehan surveyed storm damage and met with local officials in East Tennessee. “I am heartbroken by the devastating damage in East Tennessee caused by the horrific storm. Thank you to our first responders, Tennessee National Guard, TEMA, and the countless other agencies that have been working around the clock to rescue Tennesseans.” – Senator Blackburn Click here to view Senator Blackburn’s remarks following tour of storm damage. Following the devastating damage, Senator Blackburn led the entire Tennessee Congressional delegation in swiftly securing federal assistance. RELATED: Blackburn Leads Tennessee Delegation in Urging Swift Approval of Disaster Declaration Following Hurricane Helene Flash Flooding Blackburn Statement on Flash Flooding Emergency in Tennessee",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/mcghee-tyson-airport-advanced-basing-decision-kc-46-tanker,McGhee Tyson Airport advanced in basing decision for KC-46 tanker,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (September 27, 2024) – Today, the Air Force informed members of the Tennessee delegation that McGhee-Tyson Air National Guard Base advanced in the basing decision for the new KC-46 tanker. The list of possible bases was cut from 15 to 7. “The men and women in the 134th Air Refueling Wing do amazing work in service to this country, and having these tankers would help them do even more,” said Rep. Burchett. “I’ve advocated for this, and I’ll keep pushing for the Air Force to make the right decision to bring these tankers here to East Tennessee.” Earlier this year, Rep. Burchett joined a letter from the entire Tennessee delegation to the Secretary of the Air Force advocating to bring the KC-46 tankers to McGhee Tyson.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/news/blackburn-statement-on-flash-flooding-emergency-in-tennessee,Blackburn Statement on Flash Flooding Emergency in Tennessee,2024-09-27,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement on the impact of flash flooding and severe weather caused by Hurricane Helene in Tennessee: “All Tennesseans impacted by flash flooding and severe weather should follow local guidance and evacuation protocols carefully. We are working with local officials to ensure public safety, and I encourage every Tennessean to avoid dangerous areas and heed the direction of emergency personnel if traveling. We stand ready to assist and help secure any federal assistance that may be necessary,” said Senator Blackburn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/burchett-co-leads-reintroduction-prison-proprietorship-formerly-incarcerated,Burchett co-leads reintroduction of Prison to Proprietorship for Formerly Incarcerated Act,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 26, 2024) – U.S. Reps. Tim Burchett (TN-02) and Morgan McGarvey (KY-03) reintroduced the bipartisan Prison to Proprietorship for the Formerly Incarcerated Act. “Around 95% of incarcerated people get released and end up back on the streets,” said Rep. Burchett. “We need to make sure they’re prepared to rejoin their communities, and teaching them entrepreneurial skills helps them get a fresh start.” “Nearly all incarcerated people will complete their sentence and return to their community—we have to make sure that we’re laying a strong foundation for success post-incarceration,” said Rep. McGarvey. “By providing a path to entrepreneurship for formerly-incarcerated Americans, my bill not only works to reduce recidivism, but also gives returning citizens the tools they need to start a business and achieve their American dream."" The Prison to Proprietorship for the Formerly Incarcerated Act would launch a program where Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) participants would provide entrepreneurial development training to the formerly incarcerated. Under the bill, SCORE would provide returning citizens with workshops, mentoring, and training opportunities designed to help them start and grow a small business. Rep. Burchett previously co-led the introduction of this bill in the 117th and 116th Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/9/issues/immigration/blackburn-to-schumer-bring-the-save-act-to-a-vote,Blackburn to Schumer: Bring the SAVE Act to a Vote,2024-09-26,2024,2024-09,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) urged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to secure U.S. elections by allowing a vote on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which she co-sponsored. This legislation would ensure that only U.S. citizens participate in federal elections by requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration across the country. It passed the House over the summer and was introduced in the Senate by Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) earlier this year. Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks on the Senate floor about the SAVE Act. REMARKS AS PREPARED: Over the Years, Thousands of Illegal Immigrants Have Been Discovered on U.S. Voter Rolls “In America, nothing is more fundamental to preserving our God-given freedoms—as equal citizens—than fair and open elections. But for more than three years, we have seen the Biden-Harris administration wage a war on this sacred institution by making illegal immigration legal. Under this administration, there have been more than 10.2 million illegal crossings—with countless illegal aliens receiving government benefits, including drivers’ licenses and state IDs. Of course, illegal aliens can break the law and use state IDs to register to vote. In fact, over the years, thousands of aliens have been discovered on voter rolls from Massachusetts to Arizona and everywhere in between.” In 14 States Across the Country, Voters Are Not Required to Show ID at the Polls “Under Republican leadership, Virginia has discovered and removed more than 6,000 aliens from its voter rolls in less than three years. On top of this, in 14 states across the country, voters aren’t required to show any form of identification at the polls. One thing is clear: While it is against the law for illegal aliens to vote in federal elections, many states and jurisdictions lack the proper safeguards to enforce the law—and ensure that not a single illegal alien can vote in our elections.” Amid Skyrocketing Illegal Immigration Under Biden-Harris, the SAVE Act Would Require Proof of Citizenship for Voter Registration “The risk is especially high with the millions of illegals now in our country because of the Biden-Harris Open Border. Our SAVE Act would solve this problem. This bill would require states to obtain documentary proof of U.S. citizenship—in person—before allowing an individual to register to vote for a federal election. The SAVE Act also has crucial provisions to restore election integrity. It would require states to establish programs to remove aliens from their voter rolls. It would also allow citizens to sue election officials who fail to uphold requirements for proof of citizenship.” Senate Democrat Leadership Has Refused to Allow Vote on the SAVE Act “The House passed this important legislation in July—but for two months, Senate Democrat leadership have refused to bring this bill up for a vote. What about this bill could they possibly oppose? Do they want foreign nationals voting in federal elections? Do they want illegal aliens voting in federal elections?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-harshbargers-hr-5526-seniors-access-critical-medications-act,"House Passes Rep. Harshbarger's H.R. 5526, The Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act",2024-09-25,2024,2024-09,Republican,House,TN,Diana Harshbarger,H001086,harshbarger.house.gov,harshbarger,https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Monday, September 23, The United States House of Representatives passed Congresswoman Harshbarger's H.R. 5526, The Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act of 2024 which ensures that medicare seniors have access to the critical medications they need. This legislation restores pandemic-era flexibilities issued by the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that allowed mail delivery of prescribed drugs to Medicare beneficiaries. ""We shouldn’t have obstacles in the way of patients receiving the prescription medications they need,"" said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. ""The bipartisan Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act simply ensures that cancer patients as well as other patients have timely access to the appropriate oral medications, by allowing delivery of these medications, or allowing family members or caregivers to pick them up on the patient's behalf."" Background Under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’s (CMS) interpretation of physician self-referral law (commonly known as “Stark law”), it’s unlawful for a medical practice — such as a community oncology practice — to deliver a prescribed and filled drug to a patient by mail, courier, or UPS. CMS’ interpretation doesn’t even allow for a family member or caregiver to pick up a patient’s drug on their behalf. During the pandemic, CMS recognized these barriers and issued a Stark waiver lifting the restrictions that hindered patient access to these crucial medications. H.R. 5526, The Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act of 2024, restores these flexibilities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z